Maya Ellison
Installing a plastic gas line is a delicate process that requires careful planning and execution. It is important to contact utility companies to locate their buried lines before beginning any digging work. This is because accidentally cutting power or gas lines can be extremely dangerous, leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. The first step is to prepare the trench by removing any sharp debris that could potentially puncture the plastic poly gas pipe. The pipe is then laid down, connected, and secured at one end before being placed in a zigzag pattern along the trench, allowing for expansion and contraction. Finally, the other end of the pipe is cut to fit and secured, and the trench is backfilled with appropriate material to protect the gas line.
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What You'll Learn
Clearing the trench
First, remove any sharp debris from the bottom of the trench. This includes rocks and other sharp objects that could potentially puncture the plastic poly gas pipe. A thorough clearing of the trench is crucial to prevent damage to the gas line. It is recommended to cover the trench with at least 6 inches of fill sand if the removed material contains sharp debris. This extra layer of protection ensures the gas line is well-guarded.
Next, smooth both ends of the poly pipe with a deburring tool. This step may seem small, but it is significant in preventing small pieces of plastic from breaking off and finding their way into an appliance. Taking the time to do this will ensure a safer and more reliable gas line installation.
Additionally, it is essential to contact all your utility companies before you begin digging. This proactive measure is vital for safety, as accidentally cutting power or gas lines can result in serious injuries or even fatalities. Being aware of any pre-existing utility lines will help you plan the trench-clearing process more effectively.
Once the trench is cleared of any potential hazards, you can start laying the poly gas pipe. It is recommended to lay the pipe in a side-to-side zigzag pattern, allowing room for the pipe to expand and contract without putting stress on the compression joints. This pattern also helps accommodate any changes in temperature and pressure within the gas line.
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Smoothing the poly pipe
Firstly, use a deburring tool to smooth out both ends of the poly pipe. A deburring tool is designed to remove small pieces of material, such as plastic or metal, and create a smooth finish. This step is crucial as it eliminates any potential sources of blockage or contamination in the gas line.
Next, carefully inspect the entire length of the poly pipe for any sharp debris or protrusions. Remove any identified sharp objects or debris from the trench to prevent puncturing the plastic poly gas pipe. Cover the base of the trench with at least 6 inches of fill sand if the original material contained sharp rocks or debris. This extra layer of protection will ensure the gas line is not punctured and will extend its lifespan.
Additionally, when laying the poly pipe in the trench, it is recommended to do so in a side-to-side zigzag pattern. This method allows room for the pipe to expand and contract without causing stress on the compression joints. This pattern also helps to avoid any sharp objects that may be present in the trench, reducing the risk of punctures.
Finally, once the poly pipe is laid in the trench, use a hammer to gently tap wooden stakes into the bottom of the trench at regular intervals. Space the stakes approximately 5 feet apart to securely hold the poly pipe in position. This step ensures the pipe remains stable and in place, reducing the risk of damage from shifting soil or external forces.
By following these comprehensive steps, you can effectively smooth the poly pipe during the installation of a plastic gas line, ensuring a safe and reliable gas distribution system.
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Locating utility lines
Contact Utility Companies:
Reach out to all the relevant utility companies in your area. These can include gas, electric power, water, sewer, cable, and communication services. Inform them about your excavation plans, and they will send representatives to your site to mark out their respective utility lines. By law, they are required to do this within a specified timeframe, usually within 48 hours.
Understand Marking Systems:
Utility companies use a universal color code system developed by the American Public Works Association (APWA) to mark underground lines. Knowing these color codes is crucial to interpreting the markings on your site:
- White: Indicates the pre-marking of excavation areas or the centerline and width of proposed installations.
- Pink: Temporary survey markings.
- Red: Electric power lines, cables, conduits, and lighting cables.
- Yellow: Gas, oil, steam, petroleum, or other gaseous materials.
- Orange: Communication, alarm, or signal lines, cables, or conduits, and fiber.
- Blue: Potable water lines.
- Purple: Slurry, irrigation, or reclaimed water lines.
- Green: Sewers, drainage facilities, or other drain lines.
Use of Tracers and Locators:
If your gas line has tracer wires, companies like CPL (Cable Pipe & Leak) can determine the depths of the pipes. This information is crucial to know how deep you can safely dig without striking the lines. Additionally, magnetic locators or cable/pipe locators can be used to locate gas lines, depending on the materials used in the pipes.
Meter-Based Location:
If you know the location of the gas meter, you can use directional entry tools, hot tapping tools, or insertable tracers to track gas lines that are usually referred to as "unlocatable."
Remember, locating utility lines is a critical safety measure. Take your time, follow the necessary procedures, and ensure you have accurately identified all underground utilities before commencing any excavation work.
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Connecting the pipe
First, ensure you connect the poly pipe at the house end of the trench. If you have opted for a mechanical riser connection, slide the compression nut and seal ring about 3 inches onto the poly gas pipe. This will secure the pipe in place.
Next, insert the poly gas pipe into the bottom of the riser. Push it gently until it rests firmly against the back of the barbed metal insert. This step ensures the pipe is securely seated in the riser. Now, slide the compression ring into the gap between the pipe and the riser threads. This ring plays a vital role in creating a tight seal between the pipe and the riser.
After that, carefully screw the nut onto the riser threads by hand. Once it is hand-tight, use an 18-inch pipe wrench to securely tighten the connection. This ensures that the pipe and riser are firmly attached.
Finally, lay the poly pipe along the trench in a zigzag pattern. This pattern allows for the natural expansion and contraction of the pipe without putting stress on the compression joints. To hold the pipe in place, hammer wooden stakes into the bottom of the trench at regular intervals. Space the stakes about 5 feet apart along the trench. This setup will provide a secure path for the poly pipe.
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Testing the installation
Walkthrough and Preparation:
Before conducting a pressure test, perform a thorough walkthrough inspection. Refer to the piping system schematic to ensure no pipe ends are left open. Expose all joints and connections for a comprehensive evaluation. Isolate any parts of the piping system that are not being tested, and ensure all necessary lockout tagout measures are in place.
Pressure Test:
The pressure test will vary depending on local regulations and company standards. Verify the required test pressure and duration for your specific location. Typically, gas lines must hold a specific psi (pounds per square inch) for a mandated duration. For example, some standard inspections require lines to hold three times their working pressure load for at least 30 minutes.
During the test, apply pressure gradually, ensuring you do not exceed the maximum allowed system pressure. At a minimum, the piping should hold the test pressure for 15 minutes. If the pressure drops by approximately 10% or more, it may indicate a leak in the system.
Leak Testing:
To test for leaks, you can use a leak-test bubble solution or a pressure gauge. If using a pressure gauge, install it on the pipe, preferably at the top of the riser pipe. Close all independent appliance cutoff valves and the gas meter shutoff valve. Then, use a bicycle tire pump to pressurize the system to around 30 psi. If the system cannot hold the pressure for several hours, there is likely a leak.
Alternatively, a "proper pressure drop test" can be conducted using a manometer or water column gauge. For this test, insert a small amount of pressure (12 to 14 inches of water column) into the piping system and monitor for pressure drops. This method is highly precise and can detect even minute leaks.
Post-Test:
Once the test is complete, carefully bleed the pressure from the system before making any repairs or replacements. Always refer to your local regulations and seek professional guidance if needed to ensure a safe and effective installation.
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Frequently asked questions
Before laying the pipe, ensure the trench is free of any sharp debris that could puncture the plastic gas line. Backfill the trench with the same material that was removed during excavation. If sharp rocks and debris are present, cover the pipe with at least 6 inches of fill sand before using the old material.
First, connect the poly pipe at the house end of the trench. If using a mechanical riser connection, slide the compression nut and seal ring about 3 inches onto the poly gas pipe, then insert it into the riser until it reaches the back of the barbed metal insert. Next, slide the compression ring into the gap between the pipe and riser threads, and screw the nut on by hand, tightening it with an 18-inch pipe wrench. Lay the poly pipe in a zigzag pattern to allow for expansion and contraction. Secure the pipe by hammering wooden stakes into the trench every 5 feet.
Test your installation according to local regulations. Typically, this involves capping the house riser and pressurizing the line with compressed air. Contact your utility companies to ensure you haven't accidentally cut any power or gas lines, as this could be dangerous.
