Alexei Volkov
Polyethylene (PE) pipes are commonly used for natural gas supply to communities and for domestic underground gas lines. They are favoured for their resistance to corrosion. However, some engineers have reported mechanical failures of PE and other plastic pipes in mild, water service, and do not recommend their use for propane gas lines due to the potential for deadly accidents. When connecting gas lines, it is important to use the correct fittings to ensure safety and avoid dangerous leaks. Kits containing a flexible stainless steel gas line and fittings are available at home centres and hardware stores.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Pipe material | Polyethylene |
| Pipe suitability | Natural gas and liquid propane applications |
| Pipe colour | Yellow |
| Pipe length | 100 ft |
| Pipe diameter | 1 in. IPS |
| Pipe safety | Potential for deadly accidents if used for propane gas |
| Fittings | Use correct fittings for safe gas hook-up |
| Fitting labels | FIP (female pipe threads) and MIP (male pipe threads) |
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What You'll Learn
Using glue to join PVC plastic pipes
Joining PVC plastic pipes is a simple and quick process, but it requires accuracy and the use of the right glue, tools, and techniques to avoid leaks.
Firstly, ensure that you have the correct glue and primer for PVC pipes. There are different types of cements and primers on the market, so read the labels carefully and select a cement made specifically for PVC. Popular manufacturers of PVC cement include Weld-On, Oatey, and Gorilla. Primer is essential when gluing PVC pipes as it creates a chemical reaction that softens the plastic and allows for better adhesion. Purple primer is often used so that it is visible for inspectors. Shake the can of primer for about 30 seconds, wipe off any excess, and spread a generous amount of primer on the outside of the pipe's end and the inside of the pipe fitting collar.
Before taking apart your dry-fit assembly, make reference marks and number each connection to ensure that you can quickly put everything back in place. After applying the primer, you only have about 10 seconds before applying the cement, so proceed quickly. Apply the cement on both the pipe and the fitting and press them together, twisting the pipe a quarter of the way around as you push it into the fitting. This will allow the glue to spread, offering a tighter fit.
Hold the pipe and fitting together firmly for at least 15-30 seconds; any less and the pipe could pop back out. The solvent vapors from the PVC primer and cement can be dangerous to your health, so ensure you have plenty of ventilation or wear an approved organic vapor respirator. After holding the pipe in place, allow at least 20 minutes before handling it further so the cement can set properly. Refer to the product's instructions for the curing time, which is usually within 24 hours.
If you make a mistake, such as forgetting to allow extra length for "shrinkage," simply saw out the bad section, use a coupling to rejoin the parts, and prime and cement them together.
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Ensuring the correct fittings are used
When connecting a plastic gas line, it is important to determine the type of gas and the specific application. For example, polyethylene (PE) pipe is commonly used for natural gas distribution in communities and is suitable for underground applications due to its resistance to corrosion. However, some people express concerns about using PE pipes for propane gas due to potential safety risks and mechanical failures. Therefore, it is crucial to select the appropriate type of plastic pipe for your specific gas type.
Another factor to consider is the transition between underground and above-ground sections of the gas line. In some cases, it is recommended to use PE pipe underground and transition to steel above ground to reduce the risk of damage to the plastic pipe. This involves connecting to a plug valve, beyond which black steel pipe is typically used inside buildings.
When connecting a new appliance, it is generally recommended to use a gas appliance connecting kit, which includes a flexible stainless steel gas line and the necessary fittings. These kits are readily available at home centers and hardware stores. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the kit and ensure that all the parts fit securely together.
Lastly, don't be confused by the labels FIP and MIP, which stand for female and male pipe threads, respectively. When purchasing parts, don't hesitate to ask for assistance to ensure you select the correct fittings for your specific application.
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Understanding FIP and MIP labels
FIP and MIP are among the most important terms in plumbing. They refer to the gender and thread type of pipe fittings. MIP stands for Male Iron Pipe, while FIP stands for Female Iron Pipe. These terms refer to the gender of the pipe fitting and the thread type it uses. MIP fittings have external NPT (National Pipe Thread) threads, while FIP fittings have internal NPT threads.
The terms 'female' and 'male' are used in plumbing to denote a plumbing piece having a part that goes inside or extends outside. 'Female' parts typically go inside, while 'male' parts extend outside. FIPs are designed to attach to pipe and hose fittings with outside threading, like MIPs (male iron pipes). MIPs are designed to be placed into FIPs.
FIPs and MIPs are commonly used to connect gas lines to appliances like dryers, heaters, and washing machines. For this reason, using the appropriate-size FIP or MIP is essential to preventing potential hazards like gas leaks.
It is important to securely tighten pipe fittings, but it is also crucial to avoid overtightening, especially when dealing with plastic fittings. Over-tightening can lead to cracking or splitting, compromising the connection and potentially causing leaks. When assembling pipe fittings, following these tips will help you achieve proper installation, minimize the risk of leaks, and ensure a reliable connection.
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Buying a gas appliance connecting kit
If you're looking to connect a new gas appliance, you'll need to buy a gas appliance connecting kit. These kits are available at home centres and hardware stores, as well as online.
A gas appliance connecting kit will include a flexible gas line, usually made of stainless steel, and fittings. The kits usually contain everything you need, but you may need to buy some additional fittings, depending on your appliance.
Before purchasing a kit, check your appliance's manual for the correct specifications. You should also check with your local building inspections department to see if you're allowed to connect the appliance yourself.
- Universal Gas Line Connector Kit, 4 ft: This kit includes a gas line, adapters, pipe-thread sealant, and a leak-test solution. It fits most gas dryers, ranges, water heaters, and furnaces.
- Universal Gas Appliance Installation Kit, 22": This kit includes a stainless steel flexible connector line, a 1/2" brass flare shut-off valve, and couplings. It can be used for water heaters, stoves, and fireplaces.
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Using a flexible gas supply line
Flexible gas lines are used to supply natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to homes and appliances such as cooktops, clothes dryers, and ranges. They are preferred by many households due to their durability, flexibility, ease of installation, and safety. The two main installation methods for flexible gas lines are series and parallel (manifold) installation.
In series installation, a main pipe supplies gas to smaller branch pipes that feed individual appliances. This method is similar to traditional black iron piping and is often easier to modify in the future.
On the other hand, parallel installation involves multiple flexible gas lines starting from a central distribution point, similar to an electrical panel. This setup is more expandable if you need to add appliances in the future but requires a gas port on the manifold for each new line.
When installing a flexible gas line, it is important to select the proper size and type of gas line for your specific needs. Flexible gas lines are available in corrugated stainless-steel tubing (CSST), flexible copper tubing, and polyethylene. CSST is the most common type, known for its durability and flexibility, while polyethylene is preferred for exterior underground installation due to its durability and non-corrosive nature.
To ensure safety, it is recommended to work with a qualified professional specializing in gas pipe repair and installation. Proper installation, grounding, and maintenance are crucial to prevent dangerous leaks. Before starting any gas line project, check with your local building inspections department to ensure compliance with regulations.
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Frequently asked questions
Polyethylene (PE) pipes are commonly used for natural gas supply, especially in underground applications. However, it is crucial to transition to steel pipes above ground to minimise the risk of damage. Using the wrong fittings can lead to dangerous leaks, so always use the correct fittings and connections for a safe gas hook-up.
When connecting a plastic gas line, ensure you use the correct fittings and connections. Kits containing a flexible stainless steel gas line and fittings are readily available at home centres and hardware stores. Don't be confused by the labels FIP and MIP, which stand for female and male pipe threads, respectively.
Using plastic piping for propane gas, especially above ground, is not recommended due to the potential risk of deadly accidents. While plastic pipes are commonly used for natural gas supply, they are not typically used for propane piping.
If you are installing a new appliance, it is recommended to purchase a gas appliance connecting kit. Replace the existing steel gas pipe with the flexible stainless steel tube provided in the kit. Ensure you use the proper fittings and connections for a safe and secure installation.
