Whether you are a homeowner or a contractor, knowing where your gas pipes run is important for maintenance and repair. You may need to call a professional to get the job done right. If you are installing a new gas meter, you must first get a certificate of approval from the utility company. You will also need to provide the company with a copy of your design specifications.
In order to be approved, the piping system must be properly sized. This is typically determined by the manufacturer’s input ratings. The volume of gas to be provided should also be calculated. This is based on the total connected hourly load of the gas. Alternatively, a diversity of load can be permitted. For example, if there is a mix of appliances and a small amount of gas, it is possible to size the piping for a higher specific volume.
For Gas Lines installed underground, a minimum of 500 mm depth is recommended. This is equal to two inches beyond the floor pipe. Corrugated stainless steel tubing is another popular material, as it is strong and able to withstand extreme weather conditions. Polyvinyl chloride material is also a popular choice for exterior gas pipes. It is less expensive than other materials. However, it is brittle and will break during the installation process.
For new construction piping, a yellow label containing the word “Gas” in black letters must be attached to the piping. This is required in accordance with ASME A13.1. The piping must be tested tight for 30 minutes. It is important that the piping is sealed to prevent debris from getting into it.
Depending on your type of home, you may need to use galvanized steel gas piping. This is a heavy, energy-efficient piping material that may be used both inside and outside of the home. The piping may be installed in the attic or inside the house. You should contact your local contractor or gas supplier to find out what piping material will be best for your project.
During construction, the area between the gas piping and the conduit must be sealed to prevent debris from entering. A temporary valve can be placed in the piping to isolate the flow path. It is important that the valve is fast enough to open and close quickly. It is also important that the end sealing is capable of withstanding full gas pipe pressure.
The piping and instrumentation diagram should include the location of the gas inlet, gas outlet, and block valves. It should also indicate the direction of each planned blow. It should also show the location of the tail pipe. Ideally, the tail pipe should be located near the gas inlet. This will help to increase the specific volume.
It is also a good idea to install pressure and temperature instrumentation at the gas outlet. The properties of gas can be calculated from the measured temperature and pressure. A table of properties can be used to calculate the amount of gas to be delivered.