 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
|
|
 |
|
||
|
|||||||||
| Gas Piping The traditional gas supply line, downstream of the point of delivery, was supplied with an average pressure of 7 inches water  column (1/4 psig) by means of
Schedule 40 (black iron) steel pipe. Black-iron piping systems
are expensive to install due to the number of couplings and
fittings needed, as well as the increased labor cost. These days
many gas companies are also going to semi-rigid tubing, rather
than rigid steel supply lines. And a new flexible stainless
steel piping system, called corrugated stainless steel tubing
(CSST) is fast gaining favor. This, however, may only be
installed by professionals. You may, however, wish to repair older supply lines in your home with the traditional materials, or extend propane gas or natural gas to new things like exterior kitchens, barbeques or gas logs in the fireplace. CSST can't be used in contact with the ground, unlike black iron and galvanized steel pipe, which are both readily available at most hardware stores and building supply houses. Both are worked and installed in the same basic manner. One of the advantages is these pipes are available in a range of pre-threaded lengths, along with the fittings needed to join them. Also, many hardware stores will cut the pipe to length and thread the ends. One of the main disadvantages of working with either material is they're relatively heavy in relation to other materials. And, being rigid, they aren't as easy to install, as are semi-rigid and flexible tubing. Special tools are also required to work with steel pipes, including a pipe vise, cutter, reamer and threading die to match the size of the pipe. Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing Gas Piping (CSST)  Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is a promising alternative to traditional threaded black-iron gas piping for residential, commercial and industrial applications. Its light weight, flexibility, and need for fewer connections and fittings can make it easier to install than traditional threaded black-iron piping. These benefits can add up to substantial labor savings for installers and cost savings for builders. Since 1989 over 150 million feet has been installed in residential, commercial, and industrial structures. During 2002, approximately 45 million feet of CSST was sold and installed in the U. S. - an indication of the rapid increase in use of CSST in recent years. Corrugated stainless steel gas tubing (CSST) consists of a continuous, flexible, stainless steel pipe with an exterior PVC covering. The piping is produced in coils that are air-tested for leaks. It is most often installed in a central manifold configuration (also called parallel configuration) with "home run" lines that extend to gas appliances. Flexible gas piping is lightweight and requires fewer connections than traditional gas piping because it can be bent easily and routed around obstacles. The multipart manifold allow for easy, future expansion of the system for room additions or additional appliances. CSST has the potential for higher levels of system safety because connections and joints behind the wall, common in black iron pipe, are essentially eliminated. In addition, builders and installers have noted a reduction in employee injuries by eliminating the heavy equipment and apparatus associated with traditional black iron pipe installations. Request service on-line and save 15%, or phone us, or email us at info@sugarbearplumbing.com.
|
