Appendix B Sizing of Venting Systems Serving Appliances Equipped With Draft Hoods, Category I Appliances, and Appliances Listed for Use With Type B Vents
Appendix C Exit Terminals of Mechanical Draft and Direct-Vent Venting Systems
Appendix D Recommended Procedure for Safety Inspection of an Existing Appliance Installation
The text of this chapter is extracted from the 2015 edition of theInternational Fuel Gas Code and has been modified where necessary to conform to the scope of application of the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings. The section numbers appearing in parentheses after each section number are the section numbers of the corresponding text in theInternational Fuel Gas Code.
User note:
Code change proposals to this chapter will be considered by the IRC — Plumbing and Mechanical Code Development Committee during the 2015 (Group A) Code Development Cycle. See explanation on page iv.
This chapter covers those fuel gas piping systems, fuel-gas appliances and related accessories, venting systems and combustion air configurations most commonly encountered in the construction of one- and two-family dwellings and structures regulated by this code.
Coverage of piping systems shall extend from the point of delivery to the outlet of the appliance shutoff valves (see definition of "Point of delivery"). Piping systems requirements shall include design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation and maintenance. Requirements for gas appliances and related accessories shall include installation, combustion and ventilation air and venting and connections to piping systems.
The omission from this chapter of any material or method of installation provided for in the International Fuel Gas Code shall not be construed as prohibiting the use of such material or method of installation. Fuel-gas piping systems, fuel-gas appliances and related accessories,venting systems and combustion air configurations not specifically covered in these chapters shall comply with the applicable provisions of theInternational Fuel Gas Code.
Temporary LP-gas piping for buildings under construction or renovation that is not to become part of the permanent piping system.
Except as provided in Section G2412.1.1, gas piping, meters, gas pressure regulators, and other appurtenances used by the serving gas supplier in the distribution of gas, other than undiluted LP-gas.
Portable LP-gas appliances and equipment of all types that is not connected to a fixed fuel piping system.
Portable fuel cell appliances that are neither connected to a fixed piping system nor interconnected to a power grid.
Installation of hydrogen gas, LP-gas and compressed natural gas (CNG) systems on vehicles.
Fuel gas services shall be in an approved location and/or provided with structures designed to protect the fuel gas meter and surrounding piping from physical damage, including falling, moving, or migrating ice and snow. If an added structure is used, it must provide access for service and comply with the IBC or the IRC.
Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, appliance orequipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel, door or similar obstruction (see also "Ready access").
AIR CONDITIONER, GAS-FIRED. A gas-burning, automatically operatedappliance for supplying cooled and/or dehumidified air or chilled liquid.
AIR CONDITIONING. The treatment of air so as to control simultaneously the temperature, humidity, cleanness and distribution of the air to meet the requirements of a conditioned space.
AIR, EXHAUST. Air being removed from any space or piece of equipment or appliance and conveyed directly to the atmosphere by means of openings or ducts.
AIR-HANDLING UNIT. A blower or fan used for the purpose of distributing supply air to a room, space or area.
AIR, MAKEUP. Any combination of outdoor and transfer air intended to replace exhaust air and exfiltration.
ALTERATION. A change in a system that involves an extension, addition or change to the arrangement, type or purpose of the original installation.
ANODELESS RISER. A transition assembly in which plastic piping is installed and terminated above ground outside of a building.
APPLIANCE. Any apparatus or device that utilizes a fuel or raw material to produce light, heat, power, refrigeration or air conditioning.
APPLIANCE, AUTOMATICALLY CONTROLLED.Appliances equipped with an automatic burner ignition and safety shut-off device and other automatic devices, which accomplish complete turn-on and shut-off of the gas to themain burner or burners, and graduate the gas supply to the burner or burners, but do not affect complete shut-off of the gas.
APPLIANCE, FAN-ASSISTED COMBUSTION. An appliance equipped with an integral mechanical means to either draw or force products of combustion through the combustion chamber or heat exchanger.
APPLIANCE, UNVENTED. An appliance designed or installed in such a manner that the products of combustion are not conveyed by a vent or chimney directly to the outside atmosphere.
APPLIANCE, VENTED. An appliance designed and installed in such a manner that all of the products of combustion are conveyed directly from theappliance to the outside atmosphere through an approvedchimney or vent system.
APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized agency that is regularly engaged in conducting tests or furnishing inspection services, where such agency has been approved by the code official.
ATMOSPHERIC PRESSURE. The pressure of the weight of air and water vapor on the surface of the earth, approximately 14.7 pounds per square inch (psia) (101 kPa absolute) at sea level.
AUTOMATIC IGNITION. Ignition of gas at the burner(s) when the gas controlling device is turned on, including reignition if the flames on the burner(s) have been extinguished by means other than by the closing of the gas controlling device.
BAROMETRIC DRAFT REGULATOR. A balanced damper device attached to a chimney, vent connector, breeching or flue gas manifold to protect combustionappliances by controlling chimneydraft. A double-acting barometric draft regulator is one whose balancing damper is free to move in either direction to protect combustionappliances from both excessive draft and backdraft.
Hot water heating boiler. A boiler in which no steam is generated, from which hot water is circulated for heating purposes and then returned to the boiler, and that operates at water pressures not exceeding 160 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (1100 kPa gauge) and at water temperatures not exceeding 250°F (121°C) at or near the boiler outlet.
Hot water supply boiler. A boiler, completely filled with water, which furnishes hot water to be used externally to itself, and that operates at water pressures not exceeding 160 psig (1100 kPa gauge) and at water temperatures not exceeding 250°F (121°C) at or near the boiler outlet.
Steam heating boiler. A boiler in which steam is generated and that operates at a steam pressure not exceeding 15 psig (100 kPa gauge).
BONDING JUMPER. A conductor installed to electrically connect metallic gas piping to the grounding electrode system.
BRAZING. A metal-joining process wherein coalescence is produced by the use of a nonferrous filler metal having a melting point above 1,000°F (538°C), but lower than that of the base metal being joined. The filler material is distributed between the closely fitted surfaces of the joint by capillary action.
BTU. Abbreviation for British thermal unit, which is the quantity of heat required to raise the temperature of 1 pound (454 g) of water 1°F (0.56°C) (1 Btu = 1055 J).
BURNER. A device for the final conveyance of the gas, or a mixture of gas and air, to the combustion zone.
Induced-draft. A burner that depends on draft induced by a fan that is an integral part of the appliance and is located downstream from the burner.
Power. A burner in which gas, air or both are supplied at pressures exceeding, for gas, the line pressure, and for air, atmospheric pressure, with this added pressure being applied at the burner.
CHIMNEY. A primarily vertical structure containing one or more flues, for the purpose of carrying gaseous products of combustion and air from anappliance to the outside atmosphere.
Factory-built chimney. A listed and labeledchimney composed of factory-made components, assembled in the field in accordance with manufacturer's instructions and the conditions of the listing.
CLEARANCE. The minimum distance through air measured between the heat-producing surface of the mechanical appliance, device orequipment and the surface of the combustible material or assembly.
CLOTHES DRYER. An appliance used to dry wet laundry by means of heated air.
Type 1. Factory-built package, multiple production. Primarily used in the family living environment. Usually the smallest unit physically and in function output.
CODE. These regulations, subsequent amendments thereto, or any emergency rule or regulation that the administrative authority having jurisdiction has lawfully adopted.
CODE OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of this code, or a duly authorized representative.
COMBUSTIBLE ASSEMBLY. Wall, floor, ceiling or other assembly constructed of one or more component materials that are not defined as noncombustible.
COMBUSTION. In the context of this code, refers to the rapid oxidation of fuel accompanied by the production of heat or heat and light.
COMBUSTION AIR. Air necessary for complete combustion of a fuel, including theoretical air and excess air.
COMBUSTION CHAMBER. The portion of an appliance within which combustion occurs.
COMBUSTION PRODUCTS. Constituents resulting from the combustion of a fuel with the oxygen of the air, including the inert gases, but excluding excess air.
CONCEALED LOCATION. A location that cannot be accessed without damaging permanent parts of the building structure or finish surface. Spaces above, below or behind readily removable panels or doors shall not be considered as concealed.
CONCEALED PIPING.Piping that is located in a concealed location (see "Concealed location").
CONDENSATE. The liquid that condenses from a gas (including flue gas) caused by a reduction in temperature or increase in pressure.
CONNECTOR, APPLIANCE (Fuel). Rigid metallic pipe and fittings, semirigid metallic tubing and fittings or a listed and labeled device that connects an appliance to the gas piping system.
CONTROL. A manual or automatic device designed to regulate the gas, air, water or electrical supply to, or operation of, a mechanical system.
CONVERSION BURNER. A unit consisting of a burner and its controls for installation in an appliance originally utilizing another fuel.
CUBIC FOOT. The amount of gas that occupies 1 cubic foot (0.02832 m3) when at a temperature of 60°F (16°C), saturated with water vapor and under a pressure equivalent to that of 30 inches of mercury (101 kPa).
DAMPER. A manually or automatically controlled device to regulatedraft or the rate of flow of air or combustion gases.
DECORATIVE APPLIANCE, VENTED. A vented appliance wherein the primary function lies in the aesthetic effect of the flames.
DECORATIVE APPLIANCES FOR INSTALLATION IN VENTED FIREPLACES. A vented appliance designed for installation within the fire chamber of a ventedfireplace, wherein the primary function lies in the aesthetic effect of the flames.
DEMAND. The maximum amount of gas input required per unit of time, usually expressed in cubic feet per hour, or Btu/h (1 Btu/h = 0.2931 W).
DESIGN FLOOD ELEVATION. The elevation of the "design flood," including wave height, relative to the datum specified on the community's legally designated flood hazard map. In areas designated as Zone AO, the design flood elevation shall be the elevation of the highest existing grade of the building's perimeter plus the depth number, in feet, specified on the flood hazard map. In areas designated as Zone AO where a depth number is not specified on the map, the depth number shall be taken as being equal to 2 feet (610 mm).
DIRECT-VENT APPLIANCES.Appliances that are constructed and installed so that all air for combustion is derived directly from the outside atmosphere and all flue gases are discharged directly to the outside atmosphere.
DRAFT. The pressure difference existing between the appliance or any component part and the atmosphere, that causes a continuous flow of air and products of combustion through the gas passages of the appliance to the atmosphere.
Mechanical or induced draft. The pressure difference created by the action of a fan, blower or ejector that is located between the appliance and the chimney or vent termination.
Natural draft. The pressure difference created by a vent or chimney because of its height, and the temperature difference between the flue gases and the atmosphere.
DRAFT REGULATOR. A device that functions to maintain a desired draft in the appliance by automatically reducing the draft to the desired value.
DRIP. The container placed at a low point in a system of piping to collect condensate and from which the condensate is removable.
DUCT FURNACE. A warm-air furnace normally installed in an air-distribution duct to supply warm air for heating. This definition shall apply only to a warm-air heating appliance that depends for air circulation on a blower not furnished as part of the furnace.
DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete, independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.
FLAME SAFEGUARD. A device that will automatically shut off the fuel supply to a main burner or group of burners when the means of ignition of such burners becomes inoperative, and when flame failure occurs on the burner or group of burners.
FLASHBACK ARRESTOR CHECK VALVE. A device that will prevent the backflow of one gas into the supply system of another gas and prevent the passage of flame into the gas supply system.
FLOOD HAZARD AREA. The greater of the following two areas:
The area within a floodplain subject to a 1 percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year.
This area designated as a flood hazard area on a community's flood hazard map, or otherwise legally designated.
FLOOR FURNACE. A completely self-contained furnace suspended from the floor of the space being heated, taking air for combustion from outside such space and with means for observing flames and lighting the appliance from such space.
FLUE LINER (LINING). A system or material used to form the inside surface of a flue in a chimney or vent, for the purpose of protecting the surrounding structure from the effects of combustion products and for conveying combustion products without leakage to the atmosphere.
FUEL GAS. A natural gas, manufactured gas, liquefied petroleum gas or mixtures of these gases.
FURNACE. A completely self-contained heating unit that is designed to supply heated air to spaces remote from or adjacent to the appliance location.
FURNACE, CENTRAL. A self-contained appliance for heating air by transfer of heat of combustion through metal to the air, and designed to supply heated air through ducts to spaces remote from or adjacent to theappliance location.
FURNACEPLENUM. An air compartment or chamber to which one or more ducts are connected and which forms part of an air distribution system.
GAS CONVENIENCE OUTLET. A permanently mounted, manually operated device that provides the means for connecting an appliance to, and disconnecting an appliance from, the supply piping. The device includes an integral, manually operated valve with a nondisplaceable valve member and is designed so that disconnection of an appliance only occurs when the manually operated valve is in the closed position.
GAS PIPING. An installation of pipe, valves or fittings installed on a premises or in a building and utilized to convey fuel gas.
HAZARDOUS LOCATION. Any location considered to be a fire hazard for flammable vapors, dust, combustible fibers or other highly combustible substances. The location is not necessarily categorized in the International Building Code as a high-hazard use group classification.
HOUSE PIPING. See "Piping system."
IGNITION PILOT. A pilot that operates during the lighting cycle and discontinues during main burner operation.
IGNITION SOURCE. A flame spark or hot surface capable of igniting flammable vapors or fumes. Such sources include appliance burners, burner ignitors and electrical switching devices.
INFRARED RADIANT HEATER. A heater which directs a substantial amount of its energy output in the form of infrared radiant energy into the area to be heated. Such heaters are of either the vented or unvented type.
JOINT, FLARED. A metal-to-metal compression joint in which a conical spread is made on the end of a tube that is compressed by a flare nut against a mating flare.
JOINT, MECHANICAL. A general form of gas-tight joints obtained by the joining of metal parts through a positive-holding mechanical construction, such as press joint, flanged joint, threaded joint, flared joint or compression joint.
JOINT, PLASTIC ADHESIVE. A joint made in thermoset plastic piping by the use of an adhesive substance which forms a continuous bond between the mating surfaces without dissolving either one of them.
LABELED.Equipment, materials or products to which have been affixed a label, seal, symbol or other identifying mark of a nationally recognized testing laboratory, inspection agency or other organization concerned with product evaluation that maintains periodic inspection of the production of the above-labeled items and whose labeling indicates either that the equipment, material or product meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LEAK CHECK. An operation performed on a gas piping system to verify that the system does not leak.
LIQUEFIED PETROLEUM GAS or LPG (LP-GAS).Liquefied petroleum gas composed predominately of propane, propylene, butanes or butylenes, or mixtures thereof that is gaseous under normal atmospheric conditions, but is capable of being liquefied under moderate pressure at normal temperatures.
LISTED.Equipment, materials, products or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the code official and concerned with evaluation of products or services that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services and whose listing states either that the equipment, material, product or service meets identified standards or has been tested and found suitable for a specified purpose.
LIVING SPACE. Space within a dwelling unit utilized for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, bathing, washing and sanitation purposes.
LOG LIGHTER. A manually operated solid-fuel ignition appliance for installation in a vented solid-fuel-burning fireplace.
MAIN BURNER. A device or group of devices essentially forming an integral unit for the final conveyance of gas or a mixture of gas and air to the combustion zone, and on which combustion takes place to accomplish the function for which the appliance is designed.
METER. The instrument installed to measure the volume of gas delivered through it.
MODULATING. Modulating or throttling is the action of a control from its maximum to minimum position in either predetermined steps or increments of movement as caused by its actuating medium.
NONCOMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS. Materials that, when tested in accordance with ASTM E 136, have at least three of four specimens tested meeting all of the following criteria:
The recorded temperature of the surface and interior thermocouples shall not at any time during the test rise more than 54°F (30°C) above the furnace temperature at the beginning of the test.
There shall not be flaming from the specimen after the first 30 seconds.
If the weight loss of the specimen during testing exceeds 50 percent, the recorded temperature of the surface and interior thermocouples shall not at any time during the test rise above the furnace air temperature at the beginning of the test, and there shall not be flaming of the specimen.
OFFSET (VENT). A combination of approvedbends that make two changes in direction bringing one section of the vent out of line, but into a line parallel with the other section.
OUTLET. The point at which a gas-fired appliance connects to the gas piping system.
OXYGEN DEPLETION SAFETY SHUTOFF SYSTEM (ODS). A system designed to act to shut off the gas supply to the main and pilot burners if the oxygen in the surrounding atmosphere is reduced below a predetermined level.
PILOT. A small flame that is utilized to ignite the gas at the main burner or burners.
PIPING. Where used in this code, "piping" refers to either pipe or tubing, or both.
Pipe. A rigid conduit of iron, steel, copper, brass or plastic.
Tubing. Semirigid conduit of copper, aluminum, plastic or steel.
PIPING SYSTEM. All fuel piping, valves and fittings from the outlet of the point of delivery to the outlets of the appliance shutoff valves.
PLASTIC, THERMOPLASTIC. A plastic that is capable of being repeatedly softened by increase of temperature and hardened by decrease of temperature.
POINT OF DELIVERY. For natural gas systems, the point of delivery is the outlet of the service meter assembly or the outlet of the service regulator or service shutoff valve where a meter is not provided. Where a valve is provided at the outlet of the service meter assembly, such valve shall be considered to be downstream of the point of delivery. For undiluted liquefied petroleum gas systems, the point of delivery shall be considered to be the outlet of the service pressure regulator, exclusive of line gas regulators, in the system.
PRESSURE DROP. The loss in pressure due to friction or obstruction in pipes, valves, fittings, regulators and burners.
PRESSURE TEST. An operation performed to verify the gas-tight integrity of gas piping following its installation or modification.
PURGE. To free a gas conduit of air or gas, or a mixture of gas and air.
READY ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, appliance orequipment to be directly reached, without requiring the removal or movement of any panel, door or similar obstruction. (See "Access.")
REGULATOR. A device for controlling and maintaining a uniform gas supply pressure, either pounds-to-inches water column (MP regulator) or inches-to-inches water column (appliance regulator).
REGULATOR, GAS APPLIANCE. A pressure regulator for controlling pressure to the manifold of the gas appliance.
REGULATOR, LINE GAS PRESSURE. A device placed in a gas line between the service pressure regulator and the appliance for controlling, maintaining or reducing the pressure in that portion of the piping system downstream of the device.
REGULATOR, MEDIUM-PRESSURE (MP Regulator). A line pressure regulator that reduces gas pressure from the range of greater than 0.5 psig (3.4 kPa) and less than or equal to 5 psig (34.5 kPa) to a lower pressure.
REGULATOR, PRESSURE. A device placed in a gas line for reducing, controlling and maintaining the pressure in that portion of the piping system downstream of the device.
REGULATOR, SERVICE PRESSURE. For natural gas systems, a device installed by the serving gas supplier to reduce and limit the service line pressure to delivery pressure. For undiluted liquefied petroleum gas systems, the regulator located upstream from all line gas pressure regulators, where installed, and downstream from any first stage or a high pressure regulator in the system.
RELIEF OPENING. The opening provided in a draft hood to permit the ready escape to the atmosphere of the flue products from the draft hood in the event of no draft, backdraft or stoppage beyond the draft hood, and to permit air into the draft hood in the event of a strong chimney updraft.
RELIEF VALVE (DEVICE). A safety valve designed to forestall the development of a dangerous condition by relieving either pressure, temperature or vacuum in the hot water supply system.
RELIEF VALVE, PRESSURE. An automatic valve that opens and closes a relief vent, depending on whether the pressure is above or below a predetermined value.
RELIEF VALVE, TEMPERATURE.
Manual reset type. A valve that automatically opens a relief vent at a predetermined temperature and that must be manually returned to the closed position.
Reseating or self-closing type. An automatic valve that opens and closes a relief vent, depending on whether the temperature is above or below a predetermined value.
RELIEF VALVE, VACUUM. A valve that automatically opens and closes a vent for relieving a vacuum within the hot water supply system, depending on whether the vacuum is above or below a predetermined value.
ROOM HEATER, VENTED. A free-standing heating unit used for direct heating of the space in and adjacent to that in which the unit is located. (See also "Vented room heater.")
SAFETY SHUTOFF DEVICE. See "Flame safeguard."
SHAFT. An enclosed space extending through one or more stories of a building, connecting vertical openings in successive floors, or floors and the roof.
SPECIFIC GRAVITY. As applied to gas, specific gravity is the ratio of the weight of a given volume to that of the same volume of air, both measured under the same condition.
THERMOSTAT.
Electric switch type. A device that senses changes in temperature and controls electrically, by means of separate components, the flow of gas to the burner(s) to maintain selected temperatures.
Integral gas valve type. An automatic device, actuated by temperature changes, designed to control the gas supply to the burner(s) in order to maintain temperatures between predetermined limits, and in which the thermal actuating element is an integral part of the device.
Graduating thermostat. A thermostat in which the motion of the valve is approximately in direct proportion to the effective motion of the thermal element induced by temperature change.
Snap-acting thermostat. A thermostat in which the thermostatic valve travels instantly from the closed to the open position, and vice versa.
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION AGENCY. An approved agency operating a product or material certification system that incorporates initial product testing, assessment and surveillance of a manufacturer's quality control system.
THIRD-PARTY CERTIFIED. Certification obtained by the manufacturer indicating that the function and performance characteristics of a product or material have been determined by testing and ongoing surveillance by an approvedthird-party certification agency. Assertion of certification is in the form of identification in accordance with the requirements of the third-party certification agency.
THIRD-PARTY TESTED. Procedure by which an approved testing laboratory provides documentation that a product, material or system conforms to specified requirements.
TRANSITION FITTINGS, PLASTIC TO STEEL. An adapter for joining plastic pipe to steel pipe. The purpose of this fitting is to provide a permanent, pressure-tight connection between two materials that cannot be joined directly one to another.
UNIT HEATER.
High-static pressure type. A self-contained, automatically controlled, ventedappliance having integral means for circulation of air against 0.2 inch w.c. (50 Pa) or greater static pressure. Such appliance is equipped with provisions for attaching an outlet air duct and, where the appliance is for indoor installation remote from the space to be heated, is also equipped with provisions for attaching an inlet air duct.
Low-static pressure type. A self-contained, automatically controlled, ventedappliance, intended for installation in the space to be heated without the use of ducts, having integral means for circulation of air. Such units are allowed to be equipped with louvers or face extensions made in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
UNVENTED ROOM HEATER. An unvented heating appliance designed for stationary installation and utilized to provide comfort heating. Suchappliances provide radiant heat or convection heat by gravity or fan circulation directly from the heater and do not utilize ducts.
VALVE. A device used in piping to control the gas supply to any section of a system of piping or to an appliance.
Appliance shutoff. A valve located in the piping system, used to isolate individual appliances for purposes such as service or replacement.
Automatic. An automatic or semiautomatic device consisting essentially of a valve and an operator that control the gas supply to the burner(s) during operation of an appliance. The operator shall be actuated by application of gas pressure on a flexible diaphragm, by electrical means, by mechanical means or by other approved means.
Automatic gas shutoff. A valve used in conjunction with an automatic gas shutoff device to shut off the gas supply to a water-heating system. It shall be constructed integrally with the gas shutoff device or shall be a separate assembly.
Individual main burner. A valve that controls the gas supply to an individual main burner.
Main burner control. A valve that controls the gas supply to the main burner manifold.
Manual main gas-control. A manually operated valve in the gas line for the purpose of completely turning on or shutting off the gas supply to the appliance, except to pilot or pilots that are provided with independent shutoff.
Manual reset. An automatic shutoff valve installed in the gas supply piping and set to shut off when unsafe conditions occur. The device remains closed until manually reopened.
Service shutoff. A valve, installed by the serving gas supplier between the service meter or source of supply and the customer piping system, to shut off the entire piping system.
VENT. A pipe or other conduit composed of factory-made components, containing a passageway for conveying combustion products and air to the atmosphere, listed and labeled for use with a specific type or class of appliance.
Special gas vent. A ventlisted and labeled for use with listed Category II, III and IV gas appliances.
Breather.Piping run from a pressure-regulating device to the outdoors, designed to provide a reference to atmospheric pressure. If the device incorporates an integral pressure relief mechanism, a breather vent can also serve as a relief vent.
Relief.Piping run from a pressure-regulating or pressure-limiting device to the outdoors, designed to provide for the safe venting of gas in the event of excessive pressure in the gas piping system.
VENTED APPLIANCE CATEGORIES.Appliances that are categorized for the purpose of vent selection are classified into the following four categories:
Category I. An appliance that operates with a nonpositive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that avoids excessivecondensate production in the vent.
Category II. An appliance that operates with a nonpositive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that is capable of causing excessive condensate production in the vent.
Category III. An appliance that operates with a positive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that avoids excessivecondensate production in the vent.
Category IV. An appliance that operates with a positive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that is capable of causing excessive condensate production in the vent.
VENTED ROOM HEATER. A vented self-contained, free-standing, nonrecessed appliance for furnishing warm air to the space in which it is installed, directly from the heater without duct connections.
VENTED WALL FURNACE. A self-contained ventedappliance complete with grilles or equivalent, designed for incorporation in or permanent attachment to the structure of a building, mobile home or travel trailer, and furnishing heated air circulated by gravity or by a fan directly into the space to be heated through openings in the casing. This definition shall excludefloor furnaces, unit heaters and central furnaces as herein defined.
WALL HEATER, UNVENTED TYPE. A room heater of the type designed for insertion in or attachment to a wall or partition. Such heater does not incorporate concealed venting arrangements in its construction and discharges all products of combustion through the front into the room being heated.
This section shall govern the approval and installation of all equipment and appliances that comprise parts of the installations regulated by this code in accordance with Section G2401.
For structures located in flood hazard areas, the appliance, equipment and system installations regulated by this code shall be located at or above the elevation required by Section R322 for utilities and attendant equipment.
Exception:
The appliance, equipment and system installations regulated by this code are permitted to be located below the elevation required by Section R322 for utilities and attendant equipment provided that they are designed and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components and to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding to such elevation.
When earthquake loads are applicable in accordance with this code, the supports shall be designed and installed for the seismic forces in accordance with this code.
Buildings or structures and the walls enclosing habitable or occupiable rooms and spaces in which persons live, sleep or work, or in which feed, food or foodstuffs are stored, prepared, processed, served or sold, shall be constructed to protect against the entry of rodents.
Category IV condensing appliances shall be provided with an auxiliary drain pan where damage to any building component will occur as a result of stoppage in the condensate drainage system. Such pan shall be installed in accordance with the applicable provisions of Section M1411.
Exception:
An auxiliary drain pan shall not be required for appliances that automatically shut down operation in the event of a stoppage in thecondensate drainage system.
Condensate pumps located in uninhabitable spaces, such as attics and crawl spaces, shall be connected to the appliance or equipment served such that when the pump fails, the appliance or equipment will be prevented from operating. Pumps shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
The building shall not be weakened by the installation of any gas piping. In the process of installing or repairing any gas piping, the finished floors, walls, ceilings, tile work or any other part of the building or premises which is required to be changed or replaced shall be left in a safe structural condition in accordance with the requirements of this code.
Truss members and components shall not be cut, drilled, notched, spliced or otherwise altered in any way without the written concurrence and approval of a registered design professional. Alterations resulting in the addition of loads to any member, such as HVAC equipment and water heaters, shall not be permitted without verification that the truss is capable of supporting such additional loading.
Cuts, notches and holes bored in trusses, structural composite lumber, structural glued-laminated members and I-joists are prohibited except where permitted by the manufacturer's recommendations or where the effects of such alterations are specifically considered in the design of the member by a registered design professional.
Appliances shall be located as required by this section, specific requirements elsewhere in this code and the conditions of the equipment and appliance listing.
Appliances shall not be located in sleeping rooms, bathrooms, toilet rooms, storage closets or surgical rooms, or in a space that opens only into such rooms or spaces, except where the installation complies with one of the following:
The appliance is a direct-vent appliance installed in accordance with the conditions of the listing and the manufacturer's instructions.
A single wall-mounted unvented room heater is installed in a bathroom and such unvented room heater is equipped as specified in Section G2445.6 and has an input rating not greater than 6,000 Btu/h (1.76 kW). The bathroom shall meet the required volume criteria of Section G2407.5.
A single wall-mounted unvented room heater is installed in a bedroom and such unvented room heater is equipped as specified in Section G2445.6 and has an input rating not greater than 10,000 Btu/h (2.93 kW). The bedroom shall meet the required volume criteria of Section G2407.5.
The appliance is installed in a room or space that opens only into a bedroom or bathroom, and such room or space is used for no other purpose and is provided with a solid weather-stripped door equipped with an approved self-closing device. All combustion air shall be taken directly from the outdoors in accordance with Section G2407.6.
Appliances installed in outdoor locations shall be either listed for outdoor installation or provided with protection from outdoor environmental factors that influence the operability, durability and safety of theappliance.
Where used, a draft hood or a barometric draft regulator shall be installed in the same room or enclosure as the appliance served to prevent any difference in pressure between the hood or regulator and thecombustion air supply.
The required volume of indoor air shall be determined in accordance with Section G2407.5.1 or G2407.5.2, except that where the air infiltration rate is known to be less than 0.40 air changes per hour (ACH), Section G2407.5.2 shall be used. The total required volume shall be the sum of the required volume calculated for all appliances located within the space. Rooms communicating directly with the space in which the appliances are installed through openings not furnished with doors, and through combustion air openings sized and located in accordance with Section G2407.5.3, are considered to be part of the required volume.
Each opening shall have a minimum free area of 1 square inch per 1,000 Btu/h (2,200 mm2/kW) of the total input rating of all appliances in the space, but not less than 100 square inches (0.06 m2). One opening shall commence within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top and one opening shall commence within 12 inches (305 mm) of the bottom of the enclosure. The minimum dimension of air openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm).
The volumes of spaces in different stories shall be considered as communicating spaces where such spaces are connected by one or more openings in doors or floors having a total minimum free area of 2 square inches per 1,000 Btu/h (4402 mm2/kW) of total input rating of all appliances.
Outdoor combustion air shall be provided through opening(s) to the outdoors in accordance with Section G2407.6.1 or G2407.6.2. The minimum dimension of air openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm).
Two permanent openings, one commencing within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top and one commencing within 12 inches (305 mm) of the bottom of the enclosure, shall be provided. The openings shall communicate directly or by ducts with the outdoors or spaces that freely communicate with the outdoors.
Where directly communicating with the outdoors, or where communicating with the outdoors through vertical ducts, each opening shall have a minimum free area of 1 square inch per 4,000 Btu/h (550 mm2/kW) of total input rating of all appliances in the enclosure [see Figures G2407.6.1(1) and G2407.6.1(2)].
Where communicating with the outdoors through horizontal ducts, each opening shall have a minimum free area of not less than 1 square inch per 2,000 Btu/h (1,100 mm2/kW) of total input rating of all appliances in the enclosure [see Figure G2407.6.1(3)].
FIGURE G2407.6.1(1) [304.6.1(1)]
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOORS—INLET AIR FROM VENTILATED CRAWL SPACE AND OUTLET AIR TO VENTILATED ATTIC (see Section G2407.6.1)
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
FIGURE G2407.6.1(2) [304.6.1(2)]
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOORS THROUGH VENTILATED ATTIC (see Section G2407.6.1)
FIGURE G2407.6.1(3) [304.6.1(3)]
ALL AIR FROM OUTDOORS (see Section G2407.6.1)
One permanent opening, commencing within 12 inches (305 mm) of the top of the enclosure, shall be provided. The appliance shall have clearances of at least 1 inch (25 mm) from the sides and back and 6 inches (152 mm) from the front of theappliance. The opening shall directly communicate with the outdoors or through a vertical or horizontal duct to the outdoors, or spaces that freely communicate with the outdoors (see Figure G2407.6.2) and shall have a minimum free area of 1 square inch per 3,000 Btu/h (734 mm2/kW) of the total input rating of all appliances located in the enclosure and not less than the sum of the areas of all vent connectors in the space.
The outdoor opening(s) size shall be calculated in accordance with the following:
The ratio of interior spaces shall be the available volume of all communicating spaces divided by the required volume.
The outdoor size reduction factor shall be one minus the ratio of interior spaces.
The minimum size of outdoor opening(s) shall be the full size of outdoor opening(s) calculated in accordance with Section G2407.6, multiplied by the reduction factor. The minimum dimension of air openings shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm).
Where all combustion air is provided by a mechanical air supply system, the combustion air shall be supplied from the outdoors at a rate not less than 0.35 cubic feet per minute per 1,000 Btu/h (0.034 m3/min per kW) of total input rating of all appliances located within the space.
Each of the appliances served shall be interlocked with the mechanical air supply system to prevent main burner operation when the mechanical air supply system is not in operation.
The required size of openings for combustion, ventilation and dilution air shall be based on the net free area of each opening. Where the free area through a design of louver, grille or screen is known, it shall be used in calculating the size opening required to provide the free area specified. Where the design and free area of louvers and grilles are not known, it shall be assumed that wood louvers will have 25-percent free area and metal louvers and grilles will have 75-percent free area. Screens shall have a mesh size not smaller than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm). Nonmotorized louvers and grilles shall be fixed in the open position. Motorized louvers shall be interlocked with the appliance so that they are proven to be in the full open position prior to main burner ignition and during main burner operation. Means shall be provided to prevent the main burner from igniting if the louvers fail to open during burner start-up and to shut down the main burner if the louvers close during operation.
Combustion air ducts shall comply with all of the following:
Ducts shall be constructed of galvanized steel complying with Chapter 16 or of a material having equivalent corrosion resistance, strength and rigidity.
Exception: Within dwellings units, unobstructed stud and joist spaces shall not be prohibited from conveying combustion air, provided that not more than one required fireblock is removed.
Ducts shall terminate in an unobstructed space allowing free movement ofcombustion air to the appliances.
Ducts shall serve a single enclosure.
Ducts shall not serve both upper and lower combustion air openings where both such openings are used. The separation between ducts serving upper and lower combustion air openings shall be maintained to the source ofcombustion air.
Ducts shall not be screened where terminating in an attic space.
Exception: Direct-vent gas-fired appliances designed for installation in a solid fuel-burning fireplace where installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Combustion air intake openings located on the exterior of a building shall have the lowest side of such openings located not less than 12 inches (305 mm) vertically from the adjoining finished ground level.
Where corrosive or flammable process fumes or gases, other than products of combustion, are present, means for the disposal of such fumes or gases shall be provided. Such fumes or gases include carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, chlorine and halogenated hydrocarbons.
In barbershops, beauty shops and other facilities where chemicals that generate corrosive or flammable products, such as aerosol sprays, are routinely used, nondirect vent-type appliances shall be located in a mechanical room separated or partitioned off from other areas with provisions for combustion air and dilution air from the outdoors. Direct-vent appliances shall be installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
Unlisted appliancesapproved in accordance with Section G2404.3 shall be limited to uses recommended by the manufacturer and shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, the provisions of this code and the requirements determined by the code official.
Equipment and appliances having an ignition source shall be elevated such that the source of ignition is not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor in hazardous locations and public garages, private garages, repair garages, motor fuel-dispensing facilities and parking garages. For the purpose of this section, rooms or spaces that are not part of theliving space of a dwelling unit and that communicate directly with a private garage through openings shall be considered to be part of the private garage.
Exception:
Elevation of the ignition source is not required forappliances that are listed as flammable-vapor-ignition resistant.
In residential garages where appliances are installed in a separate, enclosed space having access only from outside of the garage, such appliances shall be permitted to be installed at floor level, provided that the requiredcombustion air is taken from the exterior of the garage.
Appliances located in private garages shall be installed with a minimum clearance of 6 feet (1829 mm) above the floor.
Exception:
The requirements of this section shall not apply where theappliances are protected from motor vehicle impact and installed in accordance with Section G2408.2.
Equipment and appliances installed at grade level shall be supported on a level concrete slab or other approved material extending not less than 3 inches (76 mm) above adjoining grade or shall be suspended not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above adjoining grade. Such supports shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Heat-producing equipment and appliances shall be installed to maintain the required clearances to combustible construction as specified in the listing and manufacturer's instructions. Such clearances shall be reduced only in accordance with Section G2409. Clearances to combustibles shall include such considerations as door swing, drawer pull, overhead projections or shelving and window swing. Devices, such as door stops or limits and closers, shall not be used to provide the required clearances.
The allowable clearance reduction shall be based on one of the methods specified in Table G2409.2 or shall utilize a reduced clearance protective assembly listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1618. Where required clearances are not listed in Table G2409.2, the reduced clearances shall be determined by linear interpolation between the distances listed in the table. Reduced clearances shall not be derived by extrapolation below the range of the table. The reduction of the required clearances to combustibles for listed and labeledappliances and equipment shall be in accordance with the requirements of this section, except that such clearances shall not be reduced where reduction is specifically prohibited by the terms of theappliance or equipment listing [see Figures G2409.2(1) through 2409.2(3)].
NOTES:
"A" equals the clearance without protection.
"B" equals the reduced clearance permitted in accordance with Table G2409.2. The protection applied to the construction usingcombustible material shall extend far enough in each direction to make "C" equal to "A."
TABLE G2409.2 (308.2)a through k
REDUCTION OF CLEARANCES WITH SPECIFIED FORMS OF PROTECTION
TYPE OF PROTECTION APPLIED TO AND COVERING ALL SURFACES OF COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL WITHIN THE DISTANCE SPECIFIED AS THE REQUIRED CLEARANCE WITH NO PROTECTION [see Figures G2409.2(1), G2409.2(2), and G2409.2(3)]
WHERE THE REQUIRED CLEARANCE WITH NO PROTECTION FROM APPLIANCE, VENT CONNECTOR, OR SINGLE-WALL METAL PIPE IS: (inches)
36
18
12
9
6
Allowable clearances with specified protection (inches)
Use Column 1 for clearances above appliance or horizontal connector. Use Column 2 for clearances from appliance, vertical connector and single-wall metal pipe.
Above Col. 1
Sides and rear Col. 2
Above Col. 1
Sides and rear Col. 2
Above Col. 1
Sides and rear Col. 2
Above Col. 1
Sides and rear Col. 2
Above Col. 1
Sides and rear Col. 2
1. 31/2-inch-thick masonry wall without ventilated airspace
—
24
—
12
—
9
—
6
—
5
2. 1/2-inch insulation board over 1-inch glass fiber or mineral wool batts
24
18
12
9
9
6
6
5
4
3
3. 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal over 1-inch glass fiber or mineral wool batts reinforced with wire on rear face with ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
4. 31/2-inch-thick masonry wall with ventilated airspace
—
12
—
6
—
6
—
6
—
6
5. 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal with ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
2
6. 1/2-inch-thick insulation board with ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
7. 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal with ventilated airspace over 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal with ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
8. 1-inch glass fiber or mineral wool batts sandwiched between two sheets 0.024-inch (nominal 24 gage) sheet metal with ventilated airspace
18
12
9
6
6
4
5
3
3
3
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, °C = [(°F - 32)/1.8], 1 pound per cubic foot = 16.02 kg/m3, 1 Btu per inch per square foot per hour per °F = 0.144 W/m2• K.
All clearances shall be measured from the outer surface of the combustible material to the nearest point on the surface of the appliance, disregarding any intervening protection applied to the combustible material.
Spacers and ties shall be of noncombustible material. A spacer or tie shall not be used directly opposite an appliance or connector.
For all clearance reduction systems using a ventilated airspace, adequate provision for air circulation shall be provided as described [see Figures G2409.2(2) and G2409.2(3)].
There shall be at least 1 inch between clearance reduction systems and combustible walls and ceilings for reduction systems using ventilated airspace.
Where a wall protector is mounted on a single flat wall away from corners, it shall have an air gap of not less than 1 inch. To provide air circulation, the bottom and top edges, or only the side and top edges, or all edges shall be left open.
Mineral wool batts (blanket or board) shall have a density of not less than 8 pounds per cubic foot and a melting point of not less than 1500°F.
Insulation material used as part of a clearance reduction system shall have a thermal conductivity of 1.0 Btu per inch per square foot per hour per °F or less.
There shall be not less than 1 inch between the appliance and the protector. The clearance between the appliance and the combustible surface shall not be reduced below that allowed in this table.
All clearances and thicknesses are minimum; larger clearances and thicknesses are acceptable.
Listed single-wall connectors shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Where the furnaceplenum is adjacent to plaster on metal lath ornoncombustible material attached to combustible material, the clearance shall be measured to the surface of the plaster or other noncombustible finish where the clearance specified is 2 inches (51 mm) or less.
Supply air ducts connecting to listed central heating furnaces shall have the same minimum clearance to combustibles as required for the furnace supply plenum for a distance of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the supply plenum. Clearance is not required beyond the 3-foot (914 mm) distance.
Where the furnaceplenum is adjacent to plaster on metal lath or noncombustible material attached to combustible material, the clearance shall be measured to the surface of the plaster or other noncombustible finish where the clearance specified is 2 inches (51 mm) or less.
Supply air ducts connecting to listed central heating furnaces shall have the same minimum clearance to combustibles as required for the furnace supply plenum for a distance of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the supply plenum. Clearance is not required beyond the 3-foot (914 mm) distance.
Each above-ground portion of a gas piping system other than corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) that is likely to become energized shall be electrically continuous and bonded to an effective ground-fault current path. Gas piping other than CSST shall be considered to be bonded where it is connected to appliances that are connected to the equipment grounding conductor of the circuit supplying that appliance.
Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) gas piping systems and piping systems containing one or more segments of CSST shall be bonded to the electrical service grounding electrode system or, where provided, the lightning protection electrode system.
The length of the bonding jumper between the connection to a gas piping system and the connection to a grounding electrode system shall not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm). Any additional grounding electrodes used shall be bonded to the electrical service grounding electrode system or, where provided, the lightning protection grounding electrode system.
This section shall govern the design, installation, modification and maintenance of piping systems. The applicability of this code to piping systems extends from the point of delivery to the connections with the appliances and includes the design, materials, components, fabrication, assembly, installation, testing, inspection, operation and maintenance of such piping systems.
Utility service piping located within buildings shall be installed in accordance with the structural safety and fire protection provisions of this code.
Where an additional appliance is to be served, the existing piping shall be checked to determine if it has adequate capacity for all appliances served. If inadequate, the existing system shall be enlarged as required or separate piping of adequate capacity shall be provided.
For other than steel pipe, exposed piping shall be identified by a yellow label marked "Gas" in black letters. The marking shall be spaced at intervals not exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm). The marking shall not be required on pipe located in the same room as the appliance served.
Where two or more meters are installed on the same premises but supply separate consumers, the piping systems shall not be interconnected on the outlet side of the meters.
Piping from multiple meter installations shall be marked with an approved permanent identification by the installer so that the piping system supplied by each meter is readily identifiable.
All pipe utilized for the installation, extension and alteration of any piping system shall be sized to supply the full number of outlets for the intended purpose and shall be sized in accordance with Section G2413.
Piping, tubing and fittings shall comply with the applicable referenced standards, specifications and performance criteria of this code and shall be identified in accordance with Section G2412.9. Piping, tubing and fittings shall either be tested by an approved third-party testing agency or certified by an approvedthird-party certification agency.
Piping systems shall be of such size and so installed as to provide a supply of gas sufficient to meet the maximum demand and supply gas to each appliance inlet at not less than the minimum supply pressure required by the appliance.
The volumetric flow rate of gas to be provided shall be the sum of the maximum input of the appliances served.
The total connected hourly load shall be used as the basis for pipe sizing, assuming that all appliances could be operating at full capacity simultaneously. Where a diversity of load can be established, pipe sizing shall be permitted to be based on such loads.
The volumetric flow rate of gas to be provided shall be adjusted for altitude where the installation is above 2,000 feet (610 m) in elevation.
Where Tables G2413.4(1) through G2413.4(21) are used to size piping or tubing, the pipe length shall be determined in accordance with Section G2413.4.1, G2413.4.2 or G2413.4.3.
Where Equations 24-3 and 24-4 are used to size piping or tubing, the pipe or tubing shall have smooth inside walls and the pipe length shall be determined in accordance with Section G2413.4.1, G2413.4.2 or G2413.4.3.
Low-pressure gas equation [Less than 11/2 pounds per square inch (psi) (10.3 kPa)]:
(Equation 24-3)
High-pressure gas equation [1.5 psi (10.3 kPa) and above]:
Pressure drop, inch water column (27.7 inch water column = 1 psi).
TABLE G2413.4 (402.4) CrAND Y VALUES FOR NATURAL GAS AND UNDILUTED PROPANE AT STANDARD CONDITIONS
GAS
EQUATION FACTORS
Cr
Y
Natural gas
0.6094
0.9992
Undiluted propane
1.2462
0.9910
For SI: 1 cubic foot = 0.028 m3, 1 foot = 305 mm, 1-inch water column = 0.249 kPa, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.293 W.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
NA means a flow of less than 10 cfh.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
NA means a flow of less than 10 cfh.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1.3n, where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings or bends.
EHD—Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table does not include effect of pressure drop across the line regulator. Where regulator loss exceeds 3/4 psi, DO NOT USE THIS TABLE. Consult with the regulator manufacturer for pressure drops and capacity factors. Pressure drops across a regulator can vary with flow rate.
CAUTION: Capacities shown in the table might exceed maximum capacity for a selected regulator. Consult with the regulator or tubing manufacturer for guidance.
Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1.3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings or bends.
EHD—Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Pipe sizing between first stage (high-pressure regulator) and second stage (low-pressure regulator).
PIPE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
1/2
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
21/2
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
3,320
6,950
13,100
26,900
40,300
77,600
124,000
219,000
446,000
20
2,280
4,780
9,000
18,500
27,700
53,300
85,000
150,000
306,000
30
1,830
3,840
7,220
14,800
22,200
42,800
68,200
121,000
246,000
40
1,570
3,280
6,180
12,700
19,000
36,600
58,400
103,000
211,000
50
1,390
2,910
5,480
11,300
16,900
32,500
51,700
91,500
187,000
60
1,260
2,640
4,970
10,200
15,300
29,400
46,900
82,900
169,000
70
1,160
2,430
4,570
9,380
14,100
27,100
43,100
76,300
156,000
80
1,080
2,260
4,250
8,730
13,100
25,200
40,100
70,900
145,000
90
1,010
2,120
3,990
8,190
12,300
23,600
37,700
66,600
136,000
100
956
2,000
3,770
7,730
11,600
22,300
35,600
62,900
128,000
125
848
1,770
3,340
6,850
10,300
19,800
31,500
55,700
114,000
150
768
1,610
3,020
6,210
9,300
17,900
28,600
50,500
103,000
175
706
1,480
2,780
5,710
8,560
16,500
26,300
46,500
94,700
200
657
1,370
2,590
5,320
7,960
15,300
24,400
43,200
88,100
250
582
1,220
2,290
4,710
7,060
13,600
21,700
38,300
78,100
300
528
1,100
2,080
4,270
6,400
12,300
19,600
34,700
70,800
350
486
1,020
1,910
3,930
5,880
11,300
18,100
31,900
65,100
400
452
945
1,780
3,650
5,470
10,500
16,800
29,700
60,600
450
424
886
1,670
3,430
5,140
9,890
15,800
27,900
56,800
500
400
837
1,580
3,240
4,850
9,340
14,900
26,300
53,700
550
380
795
1,500
3,070
4,610
8,870
14,100
25,000
51,000
600
363
759
1,430
2,930
4,400
8,460
13,500
23,900
48,600
650
347
726
1,370
2,810
4,210
8,110
12,900
22,800
46,600
700
334
698
1,310
2,700
4,040
7,790
12,400
21,900
44,800
750
321
672
1,270
2,600
3,900
7,500
12,000
21,100
43,100
800
310
649
1,220
2,510
3,760
7,240
11,500
20,400
41,600
850
300
628
1,180
2,430
3,640
7,010
11,200
19,800
40,300
900
291
609
1,150
2,360
3,530
6,800
10,800
19,200
39,100
950
283
592
1,110
2,290
3,430
6,600
10,500
18,600
37,900
1,000
275
575
1,080
2,230
3,330
6,420
10,200
18,100
36,900
1,100
261
546
1,030
2,110
3,170
6,100
9,720
17,200
35,000
1,200
249
521
982
2,020
3,020
5,820
9,270
16,400
33,400
1,300
239
499
940
1,930
2,890
5,570
8,880
15,700
32,000
1,400
229
480
903
1,850
2,780
5,350
8,530
15,100
30,800
1,500
221
462
870
1,790
2,680
5,160
8,220
14,500
29,600
1,600
213
446
840
1,730
2,590
4,980
7,940
14,000
28,600
1,700
206
432
813
1,670
2,500
4,820
7,680
13,600
27,700
1,800
200
419
789
1,620
2,430
4,670
7,450
13,200
26,900
1,900
194
407
766
1,570
2,360
4,540
7,230
12,800
26,100
2,000
189
395
745
1,530
2,290
4,410
7,030
12,400
25,400
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Pipe sizing between first stage (high-pressure regulator) and second stage (low-pressure regulator).
PIPE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
1/2
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
21/2
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
5,890
12,300
23,200
47,600
71,300
137,000
219,000
387,000
789,000
20
4,050
8,460
15,900
32,700
49,000
94,400
150,000
266,000
543,000
30
3,250
6,790
12,800
26,300
39,400
75,800
121,000
214,000
436,000
40
2,780
5,810
11,000
22,500
33,700
64,900
103,000
183,000
373,000
50
2,460
5,150
9,710
19,900
29,900
57,500
91,600
162,000
330,000
60
2,230
4,670
8,790
18,100
27,100
52,100
83,000
147,000
299,000
70
2,050
4,300
8,090
16,600
24,900
47,900
76,400
135,000
275,000
80
1,910
4,000
7,530
15,500
23,200
44,600
71,100
126,000
256,000
90
1,790
3,750
7,060
14,500
21,700
41,800
66,700
118,000
240,000
100
1,690
3,540
6,670
13,700
20,500
39,500
63,000
111,000
227,000
125
1,500
3,140
5,910
12,100
18,200
35,000
55,800
98,700
201,000
150
1,360
2,840
5,360
11,000
16,500
31,700
50,600
89,400
182,000
175
1,250
2,620
4,930
10,100
15,200
29,200
46,500
82,300
167,800
200
1,160
2,430
4,580
9,410
14,100
27,200
43,300
76,500
156,100
250
1,030
2,160
4,060
8,340
12,500
24,100
38,400
67,800
138,400
300
935
1,950
3,680
7,560
11,300
21,800
34,800
61,500
125,400
350
860
1,800
3,390
6,950
10,400
20,100
32,000
56,500
115,300
400
800
1,670
3,150
6,470
9,690
18,700
29,800
52,600
107,300
450
751
1,570
2,960
6,070
9,090
17,500
27,900
49,400
100,700
500
709
1,480
2,790
5,730
8,590
16,500
26,400
46,600
95,100
550
673
1,410
2,650
5,450
8,160
15,700
25,000
44,300
90,300
600
642
1,340
2,530
5,200
7,780
15,000
23,900
42,200
86,200
650
615
1,290
2,420
4,980
7,450
14,400
22,900
40,500
82,500
700
591
1,240
2,330
4,780
7,160
13,800
22,000
38,900
79,300
750
569
1,190
2,240
4,600
6,900
13,300
21,200
37,400
76,400
800
550
1,150
2,170
4,450
6,660
12,800
20,500
36,200
73,700
850
532
1,110
2,100
4,300
6,450
12,400
19,800
35,000
71,400
900
516
1,080
2,030
4,170
6,250
12,000
19,200
33,900
69,200
950
501
1,050
1,970
4,050
6,070
11,700
18,600
32,900
67,200
1,000
487
1,020
1,920
3,940
5,900
11,400
18,100
32,000
65,400
1,100
463
968
1,820
3,740
5,610
10,800
17,200
30,400
62,100
1,200
442
923
1,740
3,570
5,350
10,300
16,400
29,000
59,200
1,300
423
884
1,670
3,420
5,120
9,870
15,700
27,800
56,700
1,400
406
849
1,600
3,280
4,920
9,480
15,100
26,700
54,500
1,500
391
818
1,540
3,160
4,740
9,130
14,600
25,700
52,500
1,600
378
790
1,490
3,060
4,580
8,820
14,100
24,800
50,700
1,700
366
765
1,440
2,960
4,430
8,530
13,600
24,000
49,000
1,800
355
741
1,400
2,870
4,300
8,270
13,200
23,300
47,600
1,900
344
720
1,360
2,780
4,170
8,040
12,800
22,600
46,200
2,000
335
700
1,320
2,710
4,060
7,820
12,500
22,000
44,900
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Pipe sizing between 2 psig service and line pressure regulator.
PIPE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
1/2
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
21/2
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
2,680
5,590
10,500
21,600
32,400
62,400
99,500
176,000
359,000
20
1,840
3,850
7,240
14,900
22,300
42,900
68,400
121,000
247,000
30
1,480
3,090
5,820
11,900
17,900
34,500
54,900
97,100
198,000
40
1,260
2,640
4,980
10,200
15,300
29,500
47,000
83,100
170,000
50
1,120
2,340
4,410
9,060
13,600
26,100
41,700
73,700
150,000
60
1,010
2,120
4,000
8,210
12,300
23,700
37,700
66,700
136,000
70
934
1,950
3,680
7,550
11,300
21,800
34,700
61,400
125,000
80
869
1,820
3,420
7,020
10,500
20,300
32,300
57,100
116,000
90
815
1,700
3,210
6,590
9,880
19,000
30,300
53,600
109,000
100
770
1,610
3,030
6,230
9,330
18,000
28,600
50,600
103,000
125
682
1,430
2,690
5,520
8,270
15,900
25,400
44,900
91,500
150
618
1,290
2,440
5,000
7,490
14,400
23,000
40,700
82,900
175
569
1,190
2,240
4,600
6,890
13,300
21,200
37,400
76,300
200
529
1,110
2,080
4,280
6,410
12,300
19,700
34,800
71,000
250
469
981
1,850
3,790
5,680
10,900
17,400
30,800
62,900
300
425
889
1,670
3,440
5,150
9,920
15,800
27,900
57,000
350
391
817
1,540
3,160
4,740
9,120
14,500
25,700
52,400
400
364
760
1,430
2,940
4,410
8,490
13,500
23,900
48,800
450
341
714
1,340
2,760
4,130
7,960
12,700
22,400
45,800
500
322
674
1,270
2,610
3,910
7,520
12,000
21,200
43,200
550
306
640
1,210
2,480
3,710
7,140
11,400
20,100
41,100
600
292
611
1,150
2,360
3,540
6,820
10,900
19,200
39,200
650
280
585
1,100
2,260
3,390
6,530
10,400
18,400
37,500
700
269
562
1,060
2,170
3,260
6,270
9,990
17,700
36,000
750
259
541
1,020
2,090
3,140
6,040
9,630
17,000
34,700
800
250
523
985
2,020
3,030
5,830
9,300
16,400
33,500
850
242
506
953
1,960
2,930
5,640
9,000
15,900
32,400
900
235
490
924
1,900
2,840
5,470
8,720
15,400
31,500
950
228
476
897
1,840
2,760
5,310
8,470
15,000
30,500
1,000
222
463
873
1,790
2,680
5,170
8,240
14,600
29,700
1,100
210
440
829
1,700
2,550
4,910
7,830
13,800
28,200
1,200
201
420
791
1,620
2,430
4,680
7,470
13,200
26,900
1,300
192
402
757
1,550
2,330
4,490
7,150
12,600
25,800
1,400
185
386
727
1,490
2,240
4,310
6,870
12,100
24,800
1,500
178
372
701
1,440
2,160
4,150
6,620
11,700
23,900
1,600
172
359
677
1,390
2,080
4,010
6,390
11,300
23,000
1,700
166
348
655
1,340
2,010
3,880
6,180
10,900
22,300
1,800
161
337
635
1,300
1,950
3,760
6,000
10,600
21,600
1,900
157
327
617
1,270
1,900
3,650
5,820
10,300
21,000
2,000
152
318
600
1,230
1,840
3,550
5,660
10,000
20,400
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Pipe sizing between single- or second-stage (low pressure) regulator and appliance.
PIPE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
1/2
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
21/2
3
4
Actual ID
0.622
0.824
1.049
1.380
1.610
2.067
2.469
3.068
4.026
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
291
608
1,150
2,350
3,520
6,790
10,800
19,100
39,000
20
200
418
787
1,620
2,420
4,660
7,430
13,100
26,800
30
160
336
632
1,300
1,940
3,750
5,970
10,600
21,500
40
137
287
541
1,110
1,660
3,210
5,110
9,030
18,400
50
122
255
480
985
1,480
2,840
4,530
8,000
16,300
60
110
231
434
892
1,340
2,570
4,100
7,250
14,800
80
101
212
400
821
1,230
2,370
3,770
6,670
13,600
100
94
197
372
763
1,140
2,200
3,510
6,210
12,700
125
89
185
349
716
1,070
2,070
3,290
5,820
11,900
150
84
175
330
677
1,010
1,950
3,110
5,500
11,200
175
74
155
292
600
899
1,730
2,760
4,880
9,950
200
67
140
265
543
814
1,570
2,500
4,420
9,010
250
62
129
243
500
749
1,440
2,300
4,060
8,290
300
58
120
227
465
697
1,340
2,140
3,780
7,710
350
51
107
201
412
618
1,190
1,900
3,350
6,840
400
46
97
182
373
560
1,080
1,720
3,040
6,190
450
42
89
167
344
515
991
1,580
2,790
5,700
500
40
83
156
320
479
922
1,470
2,600
5,300
550
37
78
146
300
449
865
1,380
2,440
4,970
600
35
73
138
283
424
817
1,300
2,300
4,700
650
33
70
131
269
403
776
1,240
2,190
4,460
700
32
66
125
257
385
741
1,180
2,090
4,260
750
30
64
120
246
368
709
1,130
2,000
4,080
800
29
61
115
236
354
681
1,090
1,920
3,920
850
28
59
111
227
341
656
1,050
1,850
3,770
900
27
57
107
220
329
634
1,010
1,790
3,640
950
26
55
104
213
319
613
978
1,730
3,530
1,000
25
53
100
206
309
595
948
1,680
3,420
1,100
25
52
97
200
300
578
921
1,630
3,320
1,200
24
50
95
195
292
562
895
1,580
3,230
1,300
23
48
90
185
277
534
850
1,500
3,070
1,400
22
46
86
176
264
509
811
1,430
2,930
1,500
21
44
82
169
253
487
777
1,370
2,800
1,200
24
50
95
195
292
562
895
1,580
3,230
1,300
23
48
90
185
277
534
850
1,500
3,070
1,400
22
46
86
176
264
509
811
1,430
2,930
1,500
21
44
82
169
253
487
777
1,370
2,800
1,600
20
42
79
162
243
468
746
1,320
2,690
1,700
19
40
76
156
234
451
719
1,270
2,590
1,800
19
39
74
151
226
436
694
1,230
2,500
1,900
18
38
71
146
219
422
672
1,190
2,420
2,000
18
37
69
142
212
409
652
1,150
2,350
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Sizing between first stage (high-pressure regulator) and second stage (low-pressure regulator).
TUBE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
K & L
1/4
3/8
1/2
5/8
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
ACR
3/8
1/2
5/8
3/4
7/8
11/8
13/8
—
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
513
1,060
2,150
3,760
5,330
11,400
20,500
32,300
67,400
20
352
727
1,480
2,580
3,670
7,830
14,100
22,200
46,300
30
283
584
1,190
2,080
2,940
6,290
11,300
17,900
37,200
40
242
500
1,020
1,780
2,520
5,380
9,690
15,300
31,800
50
215
443
901
1,570
2,230
4,770
8,590
13,500
28,200
60
194
401
816
1,430
2,020
4,320
7,780
12,300
25,600
70
179
369
751
1,310
1,860
3,980
7,160
11,300
23,500
80
166
343
699
1,220
1,730
3,700
6,660
10,500
21,900
90
156
322
655
1,150
1,630
3,470
6,250
9,850
20,500
100
147
304
619
1,080
1,540
3,280
5,900
9,310
19,400
125
131
270
549
959
1,360
2,910
5,230
8,250
17,200
150
118
244
497
869
1,230
2,630
4,740
7,470
15,600
175
109
225
457
799
1,130
2,420
4,360
6,880
14,300
200
101
209
426
744
1,060
2,250
4,060
6,400
13,300
250
90
185
377
659
935
2,000
3,600
5,670
11,800
300
81
168
342
597
847
1,810
3,260
5,140
10,700
350
75
155
314
549
779
1,660
3,000
4,730
9,840
400
70
144
292
511
725
1,550
2,790
4,400
9,160
450
65
135
274
480
680
1,450
2,620
4,130
8,590
500
62
127
259
453
643
1,370
2,470
3,900
8,120
550
59
121
246
430
610
1,300
2,350
3,700
7,710
600
56
115
235
410
582
1,240
2,240
3,530
7,350
650
54
111
225
393
558
1,190
2,140
3,380
7,040
700
51
106
216
378
536
1,140
2,060
3,250
6,770
750
50
102
208
364
516
1,100
1,980
3,130
6,520
800
48
99
201
351
498
1,060
1,920
3,020
6,290
850
46
96
195
340
482
1,030
1,850
2,920
6,090
900
45
93
189
330
468
1,000
1,800
2,840
5,910
950
44
90
183
320
454
970
1,750
2,750
5,730
1,000
42
88
178
311
442
944
1,700
2,680
5,580
1,100
40
83
169
296
420
896
1,610
2,540
5,300
1,200
38
79
161
282
400
855
1,540
2,430
5,050
1,300
37
76
155
270
383
819
1,470
2,320
4,840
1,400
35
73
148
260
368
787
1,420
2,230
4,650
1,500
34
70
143
250
355
758
1,360
2,150
4,480
1,600
33
68
138
241
343
732
1,320
2,080
4,330
1,700
32
66
134
234
331
708
1,270
2,010
4,190
1,800
31
64
130
227
321
687
1,240
1,950
4,060
1,900
30
62
126
220
312
667
1,200
1,890
3,940
2,000
29
60
122
214
304
648
1,170
1,840
3,830
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Sizing between single- or second-stage (low-pressure regulator) and appliance.
TUBE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
K & L
1/4
3/8
1/2
5/8
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
ACR
3/8
1/2
5/8
3/4
7/8
11/8
13/8
—
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
45
93
188
329
467
997
1,800
2,830
5,890
20
31
64
129
226
321
685
1,230
1,950
4,050
30
25
51
104
182
258
550
991
1,560
3,250
40
21
44
89
155
220
471
848
1,340
2,780
50
19
39
79
138
195
417
752
1,180
2,470
60
17
35
71
125
177
378
681
1,070
2,240
70
16
32
66
115
163
348
626
988
2,060
80
15
30
61
107
152
324
583
919
1,910
90
14
28
57
100
142
304
547
862
1,800
100
13
27
54
95
134
287
517
814
1,700
125
11
24
48
84
119
254
458
722
1,500
150
10
21
44
76
108
230
415
654
1,360
175
NA
20
40
70
99
212
382
602
1,250
200
NA
18
37
65
92
197
355
560
1,170
250
NA
16
33
58
82
175
315
496
1,030
300
NA
15
30
52
74
158
285
449
936
350
NA
14
28
48
68
146
262
414
861
400
NA
13
26
45
63
136
244
385
801
450
NA
12
24
42
60
127
229
361
752
500
NA
11
23
40
56
120
216
341
710
550
NA
11
22
38
53
114
205
324
674
600
NA
10
21
36
51
109
196
309
643
650
NA
NA
20
34
49
104
188
296
616
700
NA
NA
19
33
47
100
180
284
592
750
NA
NA
18
32
45
96
174
274
570
800
NA
NA
18
31
44
93
168
264
551
850
NA
NA
17
30
42
90
162
256
533
900
NA
NA
17
29
41
87
157
248
517
950
NA
NA
16
28
40
85
153
241
502
1,000
NA
NA
16
27
39
83
149
234
488
1,100
NA
NA
15
26
37
78
141
223
464
1,200
NA
NA
14
25
35
75
135
212
442
1,300
NA
NA
14
24
34
72
129
203
423
1,400
NA
NA
13
23
32
69
124
195
407
1,500
NA
NA
13
22
31
66
119
188
392
1,600
NA
NA
12
21
30
64
115
182
378
1,700
NA
NA
12
20
29
62
112
176
366
1,800
NA
NA
11
20
28
60
108
170
355
1,900
NA
NA
11
19
27
58
105
166
345
2,000
NA
NA
11
19
27
57
102
161
335
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
NA means a flow of less than 10,000 Btu/hr.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
Tube sizing between 2 psig service and line pressure regulator.
TUBE SIZE (inches)
Nominal
K & L
1/4
3/8
1/2
5/8
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
ACR
3/8
1/2
5/8
3/4
7/8
11/8
13/8
—
—
Outside
0.375
0.500
0.625
0.750
0.875
1.125
1.375
1.625
2.125
Inside
0.305
0.402
0.527
0.652
0.745
0.995
1.245
1.481
1.959
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
413
852
1,730
3,030
4,300
9,170
16,500
26,000
54,200
20
284
585
1,190
2,080
2,950
6,310
11,400
17,900
37,300
30
228
470
956
1,670
2,370
5,060
9,120
14,400
29,900
40
195
402
818
1,430
2,030
4,330
7,800
12,300
25,600
50
173
356
725
1,270
1,800
3,840
6,920
10,900
22,700
60
157
323
657
1,150
1,630
3,480
6,270
9,880
20,600
70
144
297
605
1,060
1,500
3,200
5,760
9,090
18,900
80
134
276
562
983
1,390
2,980
5,360
8,450
17,600
90
126
259
528
922
1,310
2,790
5,030
7,930
16,500
100
119
245
498
871
1,240
2,640
4,750
7,490
15,600
125
105
217
442
772
1,100
2,340
4,210
6,640
13,800
150
95
197
400
700
992
2,120
3,820
6,020
12,500
175
88
181
368
644
913
1,950
3,510
5,540
11,500
200
82
168
343
599
849
1,810
3,270
5,150
10,700
250
72
149
304
531
753
1,610
2,900
4,560
9,510
300
66
135
275
481
682
1,460
2,620
4,140
8,610
350
60
124
253
442
628
1,340
2,410
3,800
7,920
400
56
116
235
411
584
1,250
2,250
3,540
7,370
450
53
109
221
386
548
1,170
2,110
3,320
6,920
500
50
103
209
365
517
1,110
1,990
3,140
6,530
550
47
97
198
346
491
1,050
1,890
2,980
6,210
600
45
93
189
330
469
1,000
1,800
2,840
5,920
650
43
89
181
316
449
959
1,730
2,720
5,670
700
41
86
174
304
431
921
1,660
2,620
5,450
750
40
82
168
293
415
888
1,600
2,520
5,250
800
39
80
162
283
401
857
1,540
2,430
5,070
850
37
77
157
274
388
829
1,490
2,350
4,900
900
36
75
152
265
376
804
1,450
2,280
4,750
950
35
72
147
258
366
781
1,410
2,220
4,620
1,000
34
71
143
251
356
760
1,370
2,160
4,490
1,100
32
67
136
238
338
721
1,300
2,050
4,270
1,200
31
64
130
227
322
688
1,240
1,950
4,070
1,300
30
61
124
217
309
659
1,190
1,870
3,900
1,400
28
59
120
209
296
633
1,140
1,800
3,740
1,500
27
57
115
201
286
610
1,100
1,730
3,610
1,600
26
55
111
194
276
589
1,060
1,670
3,480
1,700
26
53
108
188
267
570
1,030
1,620
3,370
1,800
25
51
104
182
259
553
1,000
1,570
3,270
1,900
24
50
101
177
251
537
966
1,520
3,170
2,000
23
48
99
172
244
522
940
1,480
3,090
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table capacities are based on Type K copper tubing inside diameter (shown), which has the smallest inside diameter of the copper tubing products.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
INTENDED USE: SIZING BETWEEN SINGLE OR SECOND STAGE (Low Pressure) REGULATOR AND THE APPLIANCE SHUTOFF VALVE.
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow Designation
13
15
18
19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
5
72
99
181
211
355
426
744
863
1,420
1,638
2,830
3,270
5,780
6,550
10
50
69
129
150
254
303
521
605
971
1,179
1,990
2,320
4,110
4,640
15
39
55
104
121
208
248
422
490
775
972
1,620
1,900
3,370
3,790
20
34
49
91
106
183
216
365
425
661
847
1,400
1,650
2,930
3,290
25
30
42
82
94
164
192
325
379
583
762
1,250
1,480
2,630
2,940
30
28
39
74
87
151
177
297
344
528
698
1,140
1,350
2,400
2,680
40
23
33
64
74
131
153
256
297
449
610
988
1,170
2,090
2,330
50
20
30
58
66
118
137
227
265
397
548
884
1,050
1,870
2,080
60
19
26
53
60
107
126
207
241
359
502
805
961
1,710
1,900
70
17
25
49
57
99
117
191
222
330
466
745
890
1,590
1,760
80
15
23
45
52
94
109
178
208
307
438
696
833
1,490
1,650
90
15
22
44
50
90
102
169
197
286
414
656
787
1,400
1,550
100
14
20
41
47
85
98
159
186
270
393
621
746
1,330
1,480
150
11
15
31
36
66
75
123
143
217
324
506
611
1,090
1,210
200
9
14
28
33
60
69
112
129
183
283
438
531
948
1,050
250
8
12
25
30
53
61
99
117
163
254
390
476
850
934
300
8
11
23
26
50
57
90
107
147
234
357
434
777
854
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1.3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings or bends.
EHD—Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
INTENDED USE: SIZING BETWEEN 2 PSI SERVICE AND THE LINE PRESSURE REGULATOR.
TUBE SIZE (EHD)
Flow Designation
13
15
18
19
23
25
30
31
37
39
46
48
60
62
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
426
558
927
1,110
1,740
2,170
4,100
4,720
7,130
7,958
15,200
16,800
29,400
34,200
25
262
347
591
701
1,120
1,380
2,560
2,950
4,560
5,147
9,550
10,700
18,800
21,700
30
238
316
540
640
1,030
1,270
2,330
2,690
4,180
4,719
8,710
9,790
17,200
19,800
40
203
271
469
554
896
1,100
2,010
2,320
3,630
4,116
7,530
8,500
14,900
17,200
50
181
243
420
496
806
986
1,790
2,070
3,260
3,702
6,730
7,610
13,400
15,400
75
147
196
344
406
663
809
1,460
1,690
2,680
3,053
5,480
6,230
11,000
12,600
80
140
189
333
393
643
768
1,410
1,630
2,590
2,961
5,300
6,040
10,600
12,200
100
124
169
298
350
578
703
1,260
1,450
2,330
2,662
4,740
5,410
9,530
10,900
150
101
137
245
287
477
575
1,020
1,180
1,910
2,195
3,860
4,430
7,810
8,890
200
86
118
213
248
415
501
880
1,020
1,660
1,915
3,340
3,840
6,780
7,710
250
77
105
191
222
373
448
785
910
1,490
1,722
2,980
3,440
6,080
6,900
300
69
96
173
203
343
411
716
829
1,360
1,578
2,720
3,150
5,560
6,300
400
60
82
151
175
298
355
616
716
1,160
1,376
2,350
2,730
4,830
5,460
500
53
72
135
158
268
319
550
638
1,030
1,237
2,100
2,450
4,330
4,880
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table does not include effect of pressure drop across the line regulator. Where regulator loss exceeds 1/2 psi (based on 13 in. w.c. outlet pressure), DO NOT USE THIS TABLE. Consult with the regulator manufacturer for pressure drops and capacity factors. Pressure drops across a regulator can vary with flow rate.
CAUTION: Capacities shown in the table might exceed maximum capacity for a selected regulator. Consult with the regulator or tubing manufacturer for guidance.
Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1.3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings or bends.
EHD—Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Notes:
Table does not include effect of pressure drop across line regulator. Where regulator loss exceeds1 psi, DO NOT USE THIS TABLE. Consult with the regulator manufacturer for pressure drops and capacity factors. Pressure drop across regulator can vary with the flow rate.
CAUTION: Capacities shown in the table might exceed maximum capacity of selected regulator. Consult with the tubing manufacturer for guidance.
Table includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L = 1.3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and n is the number of additional fittings or bends.
EHD—Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
PE pipe sizing between integral 2-stage regulator at tank or second stage (low-pressure regulator) and building.
PIPE SIZE (inches)
Nominal OD
1/2
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
Designation
SDR 9
SDR 11
SDR 11
SDR 10
SDR 11
SDR 11
Actual ID
0.660
0.860
1.077
1.328
1.554
1.943
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
340
680
1,230
2,130
3,210
5,770
20
233
468
844
1,460
2,210
3,970
30
187
375
677
1,170
1,770
3,180
40
160
321
580
1,000
1,520
2,730
50
142
285
514
890
1,340
2,420
60
129
258
466
807
1,220
2,190
70
119
237
428
742
1,120
2,010
80
110
221
398
690
1,040
1,870
90
103
207
374
648
978
1,760
100
98
196
353
612
924
1,660
125
87
173
313
542
819
1,470
150
78
157
284
491
742
1,330
175
72
145
261
452
683
1,230
200
67
135
243
420
635
1,140
250
60
119
215
373
563
1,010
300
54
108
195
338
510
916
350
50
99
179
311
469
843
400
46
92
167
289
436
784
450
43
87
157
271
409
736
500
41
82
148
256
387
695
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
PE pipe sizing between 2 psig service regulator and line pressure regulator.
PIPE SIZE (inches)
Nominal OD
1/2
3/4
1
11/4
11/2
2
Designation
SDR 9
SDR 11
SDR 11
SDR 10
SDR 11
SDR 11
Actual ID
0.660
0.860
1.077
1.328
1.554
1.943
Length (ft)
Capacity in Thousands of Btu per Hour
10
3,130
6,260
11,300
19,600
29,500
53,100
20
2,150
4,300
7,760
13,400
20,300
36,500
30
1,730
3,450
6,230
10,800
16,300
29,300
40
1,480
2,960
5,330
9,240
14,000
25,100
50
1,310
2,620
4,730
8,190
12,400
22,200
60
1,190
2,370
4,280
7,420
11,200
20,100
70
1,090
2,180
3,940
6,830
10,300
18,500
80
1,010
2,030
3,670
6,350
9,590
17,200
90
952
1,910
3,440
5,960
9,000
16,200
100
899
1,800
3,250
5,630
8,500
15,300
125
797
1,600
2,880
4,990
7,530
13,500
150
722
1,450
2,610
4,520
6,830
12,300
175
664
1,330
2,400
4,160
6,280
11,300
200
618
1,240
2,230
3,870
5,840
10,500
250
548
1,100
1,980
3,430
5,180
9,300
300
496
994
1,790
3,110
4,690
8,430
350
457
914
1,650
2,860
4,320
7,760
400
425
851
1,530
2,660
4,020
7,220
450
399
798
1,440
2,500
3,770
6,770
500
377
754
1,360
2,360
3,560
6,390
550
358
716
1,290
2,240
3,380
6,070
600
341
683
1,230
2,140
3,220
5,790
650
327
654
1,180
2,040
3,090
5,550
700
314
628
1,130
1,960
2,970
5,330
750
302
605
1,090
1,890
2,860
5,140
800
292
585
1,050
1,830
2,760
4,960
850
283
566
1,020
1,770
2,670
4,800
900
274
549
990
1,710
2,590
4,650
950
266
533
961
1,670
2,520
4,520
1,000
259
518
935
1,620
2,450
4,400
1,100
246
492
888
1,540
2,320
4,170
1,200
234
470
847
1,470
2,220
3,980
1,300
225
450
811
1,410
2,120
3,810
1,400
216
432
779
1,350
2,040
3,660
1,500
208
416
751
1,300
1,960
3,530
1,600
201
402
725
1,260
1,900
3,410
1,700
194
389
702
1,220
1,840
3,300
1,800
188
377
680
1,180
1,780
3,200
1,900
183
366
661
1,140
1,730
3,110
2,000
178
356
643
1,110
1,680
3,020
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
INTENDED USE: PE PIPE SIZING BETWEEN INTEGRAL 2-STAGE REGULATOR AT TANK OR SECOND STAGE (low-pressure regulator) AND BUILDING.
Plastic Tubing Size (CTS) (inch)
Nominal OD
1/2
1
Designation
SDR 7
SDR 11
Actual ID
0.445
0.927
Length (ft)
Capacity in Cubic Feet of Gas per Hour
10
121
828
20
83
569
30
67
457
40
57
391
50
51
347
60
46
314
70
42
289
80
39
269
90
37
252
100
35
238
125
31
211
150
28
191
175
26
176
200
24
164
225
22
154
250
21
145
275
20
138
300
19
132
350
18
121
400
16
113
450
15
106
500
15
100
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound per square inch = 6.895 kPa, 1-inch water column = 0.2488 kPa, 1 British thermal unit per hour = 0.2931 W, 1 cubic foot per hour = 0.0283 m3/h, 1 degree = 0.01745 rad.
Note: All table entries have been rounded to three significant digits.
The pipe size of each section of gas piping shall be determined using the longest length of piping from the point of delivery to the most remote outlet and the load of the section.
Pipe size of each section of the longest pipe run from the point of delivery to the most remote outlet shall be determined using the longest run of piping and the load of the section.
The pipe size of each section of branchpiping not previously sized shall be determined using the length of piping from the point of delivery to the most remote outlet in each branch and the load of the section.
The pipe size for each section of higher pressure gas piping shall be determined using the longest length of piping from the point of delivery to the most remote line pressure regulator. The pipe size from the line pressure regulator to each outlet shall be determined using the length of piping from the regulator to the most remote outlet served by the regulator.
The design pressure loss in any piping system under maximum probable flow conditions, from the point of delivery to the inlet connection of theappliance, shall be such that the supply pressure at the appliance is greater than or equal to the minimum pressure required by the appliance.
The maximum design operating pressure for piping systems located inside buildings shall not exceed 5 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (34 kPa gauge) except where one or more of the following conditions are met:
The piping system is welded.
The piping is located in a ventilated chase or otherwise enclosed for protection against accidental gas accumulation.
The piping is a temporary installation for buildings under construction.
LP-gas systems designed to operate below -5°F (-21°C) or with butane or a propane-butane mix shall be designed to either accommodate liquid LP-gas or prevent LP-gas vapor from condensing into a liquid.
Pipe, fittings, valves or other materials shall not be used again unless they are free of foreign materials and have been ascertained to be adequate for the service intended.
Material not covered by the standards specifications listed herein shall be investigated and tested to determine that it is safe and suitable for the proposed service, and, in addition, shall be recommended for that service by the manufacturer and shall be approved by the code official.
Copper tubing shall comply with Standard Type K or L of ASTM B 88 or ASTM B 280.
Copper and copper alloy tubing shall not be used if the gas contains more than an average of 0.3 grains of hydrogen sulfide per 100 standard cubic feet of gas (0.7 milligrams per 100 liters).
Polyethylene plastic pipe, tubing and fittings used to supply fuel gas shall conform to ASTM D 2513. Such pipe shall be marked "Gas" and "ASTM D 2513."
Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings, other than polyethylene, shall be identified and conform to the 2008 edition of ASTM D 2513. Such pipe shall be marked "Gas" and "ASTM D 2513."
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic pipe, tubing and fittings shall not be used to supply fuel gas.
Plastic pipe, tubing and anodeless risers shall comply with the following:
Factory-assembled anodeless risers shall be recommended by the manufacturer for the gas used and shall be leak tested by the manufacturer in accordance with written procedures.
Service head adapters and field-assembled anodeless risers incorporating service head adapters shall be recommended by the manufacturer for the gas used, and shall be designed and certified to meet the requirements of Category I of ASTM D 2513, and U.S. Department of Transportation, Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Part 192.281(e). The manufacturer shall provide the user with qualified installation instructions as prescribed by the U.S. Department of Transportation, Code of Federal Regulations, Title 49, Part 192.283(b).
Plastic pipe and fittings used to connect regulatorvents to remote vent terminations shall be of PVC conforming to ANSI/UL 651. PVC vent piping shall not be installed indoors.
Pipe, tubing and fittings shall be clear and free from cutting burrs and defects in structure or threading, and shall be thoroughly brushed, and chip and scale blown.
Defects in pipe or tubing or fittings shall not be repaired. Defective pipe, tubing or fittings shall be replaced. (See Section G2417.1.2.)
Where in contact with material or atmosphere exerting a corrosive action, metallic piping and fittings coated with a corrosion-resistant material shall be used. External or internal coatings or linings used on piping or components shall not be considered as adding strength.
Pipe with threads that are stripped, chipped, corroded or otherwise damaged shall not be used. Where a weld opens during the operation of cutting or threading, that portion of the pipe shall not be used.
Thread joint compounds shall be resistant to the action of liquefied petroleum gas or to any other chemical constituents of the gases to be conducted through the piping.
The type of piping joint used shall be suitable for the pressure-temperature conditions and shall be selected giving consideration to joint tightness and mechanical strength under the service conditions. The joint shall be able to sustain the maximum end force caused by the internal pressure and any additional forces due to temperature expansion or contraction, vibration, fatigue, or to the weight of the pipe and its contents.
Pipe joints shall be threaded, flanged, brazed or welded. Where nonferrous pipe is brazed, the brazing materials shall have a melting point in excess of 1,000°F (538°C). Brazing alloys shall not contain more than 0.05-percent phosphorus.
Tubing joints shall be made with approved gas tubing fittings or be brazed with a material having a melting point in excess of 1,000°F (538°C) or made with press-connect fittings complying with ANSI LC-4. Brazing alloys shall not contain more than 0.05-percent phosphorus.
Flared joints shall be used only in systems constructed from nonferrous pipe and tubing where experience or tests have demonstrated that the joint is suitable for the conditions and where provisions are made in the design to prevent separation of the joints.
Metallic fittings, shall comply with the following:
Fittings used with steel or wrought-iron pipe shall be steel, copper alloy, malleable iron or cast iron.
Fittings used with copper or copper alloy pipe shall be copper or copper alloy.
Cast-iron bushings shall be prohibited.
Special fittings. Fittings such as couplings, proprietary-type joints, saddle tees, gland-type compression fittings, and flared, flareless and compression-type tubing fittings shall be: used within the fitting manufacturer's pressure-temperature recommendations; used within the service conditions anticipated with respect to vibration, fatigue, thermal expansion and contraction; and shall be approved.
Where pipe fittings are drilled and tapped in the field, the operation shall be in accordance with all of the following:
The operation shall be performed on systems having operating pressures of 5 psi (34.5 kPa) or less.
The operation shall be performed by the gas supplier or the gas supplier's designated representative.
The drilling and tapping operation shall be performed in accordance with written procedures prepared by the gas supplier.
The fittings shall be located outdoors.
The tapped fitting assembly shall be inspected and proven to be free of leakage.
Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings shall be joined in accordance with the manufacturers' instructions. Such joints shall comply with the following:
The joints shall be designed and installed so that the longitudinal pull-out resistance of the joints will be at least equal to the tensile strength of the plastic piping material.
Heat-fusion joints shall be made in accordance with qualified procedures that have been established and proven by test to produce gas-tight joints at least as strong as the pipe or tubing being joined. Joints shall be made with the joining method recommended by the pipe manufacturer. Heat fusion fittings shall be marked "ASTM D 2513."
Where compression-type mechanical joints are used, the gasket material in the fitting shall be compatible with the plastic piping and with the gas distributed by the system. An internal tubular rigid stiffener shall be used in conjunction with the fitting. The stiffener shall be flush with the end of the pipe or tubing and shall extend at least to the outside end of the compression fitting when installed. The stiffener shall be free of rough or sharp edges and shall not be a force fit in the plastic. Split tubular stiffeners shall not be used.
Plastic piping joints and fittings for use in liquefied petroleum gas piping systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 58.
Materials used shall be installed in strict accordance with the standards under which the materials are accepted and approved. In the absence of such installation procedures, the manufacturer's instructions shall be followed. Where the requirements of referenced standards or manufacturer's instructions do not conform to minimum provisions of this code, the provisions of this code shall apply.
CSST piping systems shall be installed in accordance with the terms of their approval, the conditions of listing, the manufacturer's instructions and this code.
Piping shall not be installed in or through a ducted supply, return or exhaust, or a clothes chute, chimney or gas vent, dumbwaiter or elevator shaft. Piping installed downstream of the point of delivery shall not extend through any townhouse unit other than the unit served by such piping.
Gas piping shall not penetrate building foundation walls at any point below grade. Gas piping shall enter and exit a building at a point above grade and the annular space between the pipe and the wall shall be sealed.
Where piping will be concealed within light-frame construction assemblies, the piping shall be protected against penetration by fasteners in accordance with Sections G2415.7.1 through G2415.7.3.
Exception:
Black steel piping and galvanized steel piping shall not be required to be protected.
Where piping is installed through holes or notches in framing members and the piping is located less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) from the framing member face to which wall, ceiling or floor membranes will be attached, the pipe shall be protected by shield plates that cover the width of the pipe and the framing member and that extend not less than 4 inches (51 mm) to each side of the framing member. Where the framing member that the piping passes through is a bottom plate, bottom track, top plate or top track, the shield plates shall cover the framing member and extend not less than 4 inches (51 mm) above the bottom framing member and not less than 4 inches (51 mm) below the top framing member.
Where the piping is located within a framing member and is less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) from the framing member face to which wall, ceiling or floor membranes will be attached, the piping shall be protected by shield plates that cover the width and length of the piping. Where the piping is located outside of a framing member and is located less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) from the nearest edge of the face of the framing member to which the membrane will be attached, the piping shall be protected by shield plates that cover the width and length of the piping.
Piping in solid floors shall be laid in channels in the floor and covered in a manner that will allow access to the piping with a minimum amount of damage to the building. Where such piping is subject to exposure to excessive moisture or corrosive substances, the piping shall be protected in an approved manner. As an alternative to installation in channels, the piping shall be installed in a conduit of Schedule 40 steel, wrought iron, PVC or ABS pipe in accordance with Section G2415.6.1 or G2415.6.2.
The conduit shall extend into an occupiable portion of the building and, at the point where the conduit terminates in the building, the space between the conduit and the gas piping shall be sealed to prevent the possible entrance of any gas leakage. The conduit shall extend not less than 2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the pipe emerges from the floor. If the end sealing is capable of withstanding the full pressure of the gas pipe, the conduit shall be designed for the same pressure as the pipe. Such conduit shall extend not less than 4 inches (102 mm) outside the building, shall be vented above grade to the outdoors and shall be installed to prevent the entrance of water and insects.
Where the conduit originates and terminates within the same building, the conduit shall originate and terminate in an accessible portion of the building and shall not be sealed. The conduit shall extend not less than 2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the pipe emerges from the floor.
Piping installed outdoors shall be elevated not less than 31/2 inches (152 mm) above ground and where installed across roof surfaces, shall be elevated not less than 31/2 inches (152 mm) above the roof surface. Piping installed above ground, outdoors, and installed across the surface of roofs shall be securely supported and located where it will be protected from physical damage. Where passing through an outside wall, the piping shall also be protected against corrosion by coating or wrapping with an inert material. Where piping is encased in a protective pipe sleeve, the annular space between the piping and the sleeve shall be sealed.
Metallic piping and metallic tubing that conveys fuel gas from an LP-gas storage container shall be provided with an approved dielectric fitting to electrically isolate the underground portion of the pipe or tube from the above ground portion that enters a building. Such dielectric fitting shall be installed above ground outdoors.
Metallic pipe or tubing exposed to corrosive action, such as soil condition or moisture, shall be protected in an approved manner. Zinc coatings (galvanizing) shall not be deemed adequate protection for gas piping underground. Where dissimilar metals are joined underground, an insulating coupling or fitting shall be used. Piping shall not be laid in contact with cinders.
Uncoated threaded or socket-welded joints shall not be used in piping in contact with soil or where internal or external crevice corrosion is known to occur.
Pipe protective coatings and wrappings shall be approved for the application and shall be factory applied.
Exception: Where installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, field application of coatings and wrappings shall be permitted for pipe nipples, fittings and locations where the factory coating or wrapping has been damaged or necessarily removed at joints.
Individual lines to outdoor lights, grills or other appliances shall be installed not less than 8 inches (203 mm) below finished grade, provided that such installation is approved and is installed in locations not susceptible to physical damage.
Piping installed underground beneath buildings is prohibited except where the piping is encased in a conduit of wrought iron, plastic pipe, steel pipe or other approved conduit material designed to withstand the superimposed loads. The conduit shall be protected from corrosion in accordance with Section G2415.11 and shall be installed in accordance with Section G2415.14.1 or G2415.14.2.
The conduit shall extend into an occupiable portion of the building and, at the point where the conduit terminates in the building, the space between the conduit and the gas piping shall be sealed to prevent the possible entrance of any gas leakage. The conduit shall extend not less than 2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the pipe emerges from the floor. Where the end sealing is capable of withstanding the full pressure of the gas pipe, the conduit shall be designed for the same pressure as the pipe. Such conduit shall extend not less than 4 inches (102 mm) outside the building, shall be vented above grade to the outdoors and shall be installed so as to prevent the entrance of water and insects.
Where the conduit originates and terminates within the same building, the conduit shall originate and terminate in an accessible portion of the building and shall not be sealed. The conduit shall extend not less than 2 inches (51 mm) beyond the point where the pipe emerges from the floor.
Gas outlets that do not connect to appliances shall be capped gas tight.
Exception:Listed and labeled flush-mounted-type quick-disconnect devices and listed and labeled gas convenience outlets shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
The unthreaded portion of piping outlets shall extend not less than l inch (25 mm) through finished ceilings and walls and where extending through floors, outdoor patios and slabs, shall not be less than 2 inches (51 mm) above them. The outlet fitting or piping shall be securely supported. Outlets shall not be placed behind doors. Outlets shall be located in the room or space where the appliance is installed.
Exception:Listed and labeled flush-mounted-type quick-disconnect devices and listed and labeled gas convenience outlets shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Plastic pipe shall be installed outdoors underground only. Plastic pipe shall not be used within or under any building or slab or be operated at pressures greater than 100 psig (689 kPa) for natural gas or 30 psig (207 kPa) for LP-gas.
Exceptions:
Plastic pipe shall be permitted to terminate above ground outside of buildings where installed in premanufactured anodeless risers or service head adapter risers that are installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Plastic pipe shall be permitted to terminate with a wall head adapter within buildings where the plastic pipe is inserted in a piping material for fuel gas use in buildings.
Plastic pipe shall be permitted under outdoor patio, walkway and driveway slabs provided that the burial depth complies with Section G2415.10.
Connections outdoors and underground between metallic and plastic piping shall be made only with transition fittings conforming to ASTM D 2513 Category I or ASTM F 1973.
A yellow insulated copper tracer wire or other approved conductor shall be installed adjacent to underground nonmetallic piping. Access shall be provided to the tracer wire or the tracer wire shall terminate above ground at each end of the nonmetallic piping. The tracer wire size shall not be less than 18 AWG and the insulation type shall be suitable for direct burial.
Before any system of piping is put in service or concealed, it shall be tested to ensure that it is gas tight. Testing, inspection and purging of piping systems shall comply with Section G2417.
Prior to acceptance and initial operation, all piping installations shall be visually inspected and pressure tested to determine that the materials, design, fabrication and installation practices comply with the requirements of this code.
In the event repairs or additions are made after the pressure test, the affected piping shall be tested.
Minor repairs and additions are not required to be pressure tested provided that the work is inspected and connections are tested with a noncorrosive leak-detecting fluid or other approved leak-detecting methods.
Where new branches are installed to new appliances, only the newly installed branches shall be required to be pressure tested. Connections between the new piping and the existing piping shall be tested with a noncorrosive leak-detecting fluid or other approved leak-detecting methods.
A piping system shall be permitted to be tested as a complete unit or in sections. Under no circumstances shall a valve in a line be used as a bulkhead between gas in one section of the piping system and test medium in an adjacent section, except where a double block and bleed valve system is installed. A valve shall not be subjected to the test pressure unless it can be determined that the valve, including the valve closing mechanism, is designed to safely withstand the test pressure.
Regulator and valve assemblies fabricated independently of the piping system in which they are to be installed shall be permitted to be tested with inert gas or air at the time of fabrication.
Appliances and equipment that are not to be included in the test shall be either disconnected from the piping or isolated by blanks, blind flanges or caps.
Where the piping system is connected to appliances or equipment designed for operating pressures of less than the test pressure, suchappliances or equipment shall be isolated from the piping system by disconnecting them and capping the outlet(s).
Where the piping system is connected to appliances or equipment designed for operating pressures equal to or greater than the test pressure, such appliances or equipment shall be isolated from the piping system by closing the individual appliance or equipment shutoff valve(s).
Test pressure shall be measured with a manometer or with a pressure-measuring device designed and calibrated to read, record, or indicate a pressure loss caused by leakage during the pressure test period. The source of pressure shall be isolated before the pressure tests are made. Mechanical gauges used to measure test pressures shall have a range such that the highest end of the scale is not greater than five times the test pressure.
The test pressure to be used shall be not less than 11/2 times the proposed maximum working pressure, but not less than 3 psig (20 kPa gauge), irrespective of design pressure. Where the test pressure exceeds 125 psig (862 kPa gauge), the test pressure shall not exceed a value that produces a hoop stress in the piping greater than 50 percent of the specified minimum yield strength of the pipe.
The piping system shall withstand the test pressure specified without showing any evidence of leakage or other defects. Any reduction of test pressures as indicated by pressure gauges shall be deemed to indicate the presence of a leak unless such reduction can be readily attributed to some other cause.
During the process of turning gas on into a system of new gas piping, the entire system shall be inspected to determine that there are no open fittings or ends and that all valves at unused outlets are closed and plugged or capped.
Immediately after the gas is turned on into a new system or into a system that has been initially restored after an interruption of service, the piping system shall be checked for leakage. Where leakage is indicated, the gas supply shall be shut off until the necessary repairs have been made.
Appliances and equipment shall not be placed in operation until after the piping system has been checked for leakage in accordance with Section G2417.6.3, the piping system has been purged in accordance with Section G2417.7 and the connections to the appliances have been checked for leakage.
The purging of piping systems shall be in accordance with the provisions of Sections G2417.7.1.1 through G2417.7.1.4 where the piping system meets either of the following:
The design operating gas pressure is greater than 2 psig (13.79 kPa).
The piping being purged contains one or more sections of pipe or tubing meeting the size and length criteria of Table G2417.7.1.1.
Where existing gas piping is opened, the section that is opened shall be isolated from the gas supply and the line pressure vented in accordance with Section G2417.7.1.3. Where gas piping meeting the criteria of Table G2417.7.1.1 is removed from service, the residual fuel gas in the piping shall be displaced with an inert gas.
Where gas piping containing air and meeting the criteria of Table G2417.7.1.1 is placed in operation, the air in the piping shall first be displaced with an inert gas. The inert gas shall then be displaced with fuel gas in accordance with Section G2417.7.1.3.
The open end of a piping system being pressure vented or purged shall discharge directly to an outdoor location. Purging operations shall comply will all of the following requirements:
The point of discharge shall be controlled with a shutoff valve.
The point of discharge shall be located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from sources of ignition, not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from building openings and not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from mechanical air intake openings.
During discharge, the open point of discharge shall be continuously attended and monitored with a combustible gas indicator that complies with Section G2417.7.1.4.
Purging operations introducing fuel gas shall be stopped when 90 percent fuel gas by volume is detected within the pipe.
Persons not involved in the purging operations shall be evacuated from all areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the point of discharge.
Combustible gas indicators shall be listed and shall be calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Combustible gas indicators shall numerically display a volume scale from zero percent to 100 percent in 1 percent or smaller increments.
The piping system shall be purged in accordance with one or more of the following:
The piping shall be purged with fuel gas and shall discharge to the outdoors.
The piping shall be purged with fuel gas and shall discharge to the indoors or outdoors through an appliance burner not located in a combustion chamber. Such burner shall be provided with a continuous source of ignition.
The piping shall be purged with fuel gas and shall discharge to the indoors or outdoors through a burner that has a continuous source of ignition and that is designed for such purpose.
The piping shall be purged with fuel gas that is discharged to the indoors or outdoors, and the point of discharge shall be monitored with a listed combustible gas detector in accordance with Section G2417.7.2.2. Purging shall be stopped when fuel gas is detected.
The piping shall be purged by the gas supplier in accordance with written procedures.
Combustible gas detectors shall be listed and shall be calibrated or tested in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. Combustible gas detectors shall be capable of indicating the presence of fuel gas.
Piping shall be supported with metal pipe hooks, metal pipe straps, metal bands, metal brackets, metal hangers or building structural components suitable for the size of piping, of adequate strength and quality, and located at intervals so as to prevent or damp out excessive vibration. Piping shall be anchored to prevent undue strains on connected appliances and shall not be supported by other piping. Pipe hangers and supports shall conform to the requirements of MSS SP-58 and shall be spaced in accordance with Section G2424. Supports, hangers and anchors shall be installed so as not to interfere with the free expansion and contraction of the piping between anchors. All parts of the supporting equipment shall be designed and installed so that they will not be disengaged by movement of the supported piping.
Where wet gas exists, a drip shall be provided at any point in the line of pipe where condensate could collect. A drip shall also be provided at the outlet of the meter and shall be installed so as to constitute a trap wherein an accumulation of condensate will shut off the flow of gas before the condensate will run back into the meter.
Where a sediment trap is not incorporated as part of the appliance, a sediment trap shall be installed downstream of the appliance shutoff valve as close to the inlet of the appliance as practical. The sediment trap shall be either a tee fitting having a capped nipple of any length installed vertically in the bottommost opening of the tee as illustrated in Figure G2419.4 or other device approved as an effective sediment trap. Illuminating appliances, ranges, clothes dryers, decorative vented appliances for installation in vented fireplaces, gas fireplaces and outdoor grills need not be so equipped.
Shutoff valves shall be of an approved type; shall be constructed of materials compatible with the piping; and shall comply with the standard that is applicable for the pressure and application, in accordance with Table G2420.1.1.
The shutoff valve shall be located in the same room as the appliance. The shutoff valve shall be within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance, and shall be installed upstream of the union, connector or quick disconnect device it serves. Such shutoff valves shall be provided with access.Appliance shutoff valves located in the firebox of a fireplace shall be installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
Shutoff valves for vented decorative appliances, room heaters and decorative appliances for installation in vented fireplaces shall be permitted to be installed in an area remote from the appliances where such valves are provided with ready access. Such valves shall be permanently identified and shall not serve another appliance. The piping from the shutoff valve to within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance shall be designed, sized and installed in accordance with Sections G2412 through G2419.
Where the applianceshutoff valve is installed at a manifold, such shutoff valve shall be located within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of the appliance served and shall be readily accessible and permanently identified. The piping from the manifold to within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance shall be designed, sized and installed in accordance with Sections G2412 through G2419.
A line pressure regulator shall be installed where the appliance is designed to operate at a lower pressure than the supply pressure. Line gas pressure regulators shall be listed as complying with ANSI Z21.80. Access shall be provided to pressure regulators. Pressure regulators shall be protected from physical damage. Regulators installed on the exterior of the building shall be approved for outdoor installation.
MP pressure regulators shall comply with the following:
The MP regulator shall be approved and shall be suitable for the inlet and outlet gas pressures for the application.
The MP regulator shall maintain a reduced outlet pressure under lock-up (no-flow) conditions.
The capacity of the MP regulator, determined by published ratings of its manufacturer, shall be adequate to supply the appliances served.
The MP pressure regulator shall be provided with access. Where located indoors, the regulator shall be vented to the outdoors or shall be equipped with a leak-limiting device, in either case complying with Section G2421.3.
A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall be installed between the MP regulator and its upstream shutoff valve. Such tee fitting shall be positioned to allow connection of a pressure-measuring instrument and to serve as a sediment trap.
A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall be installed not less than 10 pipe diameters downstream of the MP regulator outlet. Such tee fitting shall be positioned to allow connection of a pressure-measuring instrument.
Where connected to rigid piping, a union shall be installed within 1 foot (304 mm) of either side of the MP regulator.
Pressure regulators that require a vent shall be vented directly to the outdoors. The vent shall be designed to prevent the entry of insects, water and foreign objects.
Exception:
A vent to the outdoors is not required for regulators equipped with and labeled for utilization with an approvedvent-limiting device installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Ventpiping for relief vents and breather vents shall be constructed of materials allowed for gas piping in accordance with Section G2414. Ventpiping shall be not smaller than the vent connection on the pressure regulating device. Ventpiping serving relief vents and combination relief and breather vents shall be run independently to the outdoors and shall serve only a single device vent. Ventpiping serving only breather vents is permitted to be connected in a manifold arrangement where sized in accordance with an approved design that minimizes backpressure in the event of diaphragm rupture. Regulatorventpiping shall not exceed the length specified in the regulatormanufacturer's installation instructions.
Where automatic excess flow valves are installed, they shall be listed for the application and shall be sized and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Where fuel gas is used with oxygen in any hot work operation, a listed protective device that serves as a combination flashback arrestor and backflow check valve shall be installed at an approved location on both the fuel gas and oxygen supply lines. Where the pressure of the piped fuel gas supply is insufficient to ensure such safe operation, approvedequipment shall be installed between the gas meter and the appliance that increases pressure to the level required for such safe operation.
Appliances shall be connected to the piping system by one of the following:
Rigid metallic pipe and fittings.
Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) where installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Listed and labeledappliance connectors in compliance with ANSI Z21.24 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and located entirely in the same room as the appliance.
Listed and labeled quick-disconnect devices used in conjunction with listed and labeledappliance connectors.
Listed and labeled convenience outlets used in conjunction with listed and labeledappliance connectors.
Listed and labeled outdoor appliance connectors in compliance with ANSI Z21.75/CSA 6.27 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Listed outdoor gas hose connectors in compliance with ANSI Z21.54 used to connect portable outdoor appliances. The gas hose connection shall be made only in the outdoor area where the appliance is used, and shall be to the gas piping supply at an appliance shutoff valve, a listed quick-disconnect device or listed gas convenience outlet.
Connectors shall have an overall length not to exceed 6 feet (1829 mm). Measurement shall be made along the centerline of the connector. Only one connector shall be used for each appliance.
Exception:
Rigid metallic piping used to connect an appliance to the piping system shall be permitted to have a total length greater than 6 feet (1829 mm) provided that the connecting pipe is sized as part of the piping system in accordance with Section G2413 and the location of theapplianceshutoff valve complies with Section G2420.5.
Connectors shall not be concealed within, or extended through, walls, floors, partitions, ceilings or appliance housings.
Exceptions:
Connectors constructed of materials allowed for piping systems in accordance with Section G2414 shall be permitted to pass through walls, floors, partitions and ceilings where installed in accordance with Section G2420.5.2 or G2420.5.3.
Rigid steel pipe connectors shall be permitted to extend through openings in appliance housings.
Fireplace inserts that are factory equipped with grommets, sleeves or other means of protection in accordance with the listing of the appliance.
Semirigid tubing and listed connectors shall be permitted to extend through an opening in an appliance housing, cabinet or casing where the tubing or connector is protected against damage.
A union fitting shall be provided for appliances connected by rigid metallic pipe. Such unions shall be accessible and located within 6 feet (1829 mm) of the appliance.
Where appliances are equipped with casters or are otherwise subject to periodic movement or relocation for purposes such as routine cleaning and maintenance, such appliances shall be connected to the supply system piping by means of an appliance connector listed as complying with ANSI Z21.69 or by means of Item 1 of Section G2422.1. Such flexible connectors shall be installed and protected against physical damage in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Suspended low-intensity infrared tube heaters shall be connected to the building piping system with a connector listed for the application complying with ANSI Z21.24/CGA 6.10. The connector shall be installed as specified by the tube heater manufacturer's instructions.
Piping shall be supported at intervals not exceeding the spacing specified in Table G2424.1. Spacing of supports for CSST shall be in accordance with the CSST manufacturer's instructions.
This section shall govern the installation, maintenance, repair and approval of factory-built chimneys, chimney liners, vents and connectors and the utilization of masonry chimneys serving gas-fired appliances.
Where an appliance equipped with a mechanical forced draft system creates a positive pressure in the venting system, the venting system shall be designed for positive pressure applications.
A noncombustible seal shall be provided below the point of connection to prevent entry of room air into the flue. Means shall be provided for access to the flue for inspection and cleaning.
A connector shall extend from the appliance to the flue serving amasonry fireplace such that the flue gases are exhausted directly into the flue. The connector shall be accessible or removable for inspection and cleaning of both the connector and the flue. Listed direct connection devices shall be installed in accordance with their listing.
Where the appliances listed in Items 5 through 7 above are installed so that the aggregate input rating exceeds 20 Btu per hour per cubic foot (207 W/m3) of volume of the room or space in which such appliances are installed, one or more shall be provided with venting systems or other approved means for conveying the vent gases to the outdoor atmosphere so that the aggregate input rating of the remaining unvented appliances does not exceed 20 Btu per hour per cubic foot (207 W/m3). Where the room or space in which the appliance is installed is directly connected to another room or space by a doorway, archway or other opening of comparable size that cannot be closed, the volume of such adjacent room or space shall be permitted to be included in the calculations.
Connectors shall connect to a masonry chimney flue at a point not less than 12 inches (305 mm) above the lowest portion of the interior of thechimney flue.
Appliance connections to a chimney or vent equipped with a power exhauster shall be made on the inlet side of the exhauster. Joints on the positive pressure side of the exhauster shall be sealed to prevent flue-gas leakage as specified by the manufacturer's installation instructions for the exhauster.
The design, sizing and installation of vents for Category II, III and IVappliances shall be in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
The chimney or vent shall be resized as necessary to control flue gas condensation in the interior of the chimney or vent and to provide theappliance or appliances served with the required draft. For Category I appliances, the resizing shall be in accordance with Section G2426.
The flue gas passageway shall be free of obstructions and combustible deposits and shall be cleaned if previously used for venting a solid or liquid fuel-burning appliance or fireplace. The flue liner, chimney inner wall or vent inner wall shall be continuous and shall be free of cracks, gaps, perforations, or other damage or deterioration that would allow the escape of combustion products, including gases, moisture and creosote.
Masonry chimney flues shall be provided with a cleanout opening having a minimum height of 6 inches (152 mm). The upper edge of the opening shall be located not less than 6 inches (152 mm) below the lowest chimney inlet opening. The cleanout shall be provided with a tight-fitting, noncombustible cover.
Exception:Masonry chimneys without the required air-space clearances shall be permitted to be used if lined or relined with achimney lining system listed for use in chimneys with reduced clearances in accordance with UL 1777. The chimney clearance shall be not less than that permitted by the terms of the chimney liner listing and the manufacturer's instructions.
Vents, except as provided in Section G2427.7, shall be listed andlabeled. Type B and BW vents shall be tested in accordance with UL 441. Type L vents shall be tested in accordance with UL 641. Vents for Category II and III appliances shall be tested in accordance with UL 1738. Plastic vents for Category IV appliances shall not be required to be listed andlabeled where such vents are as specified by the appliance manufacturer and are installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer's instructions.
Where vents pass through insulated assemblies, an insulation shield constructed of steel having a minimum thickness of 0.0187 inch (0.4712 mm) (No. 26 gage) shall be installed to provide clearance between the vent and the insulation material. The clearance shall not be less than the clearance to combustibles specified by the ventmanufacturer's installation instructions. Wher