Installing gas piping

For any gas piping system, or special appliance, or for conditions other than those
covered by the tables provided , such as longer runs, greater gas demands, or
greater pressure drops, the size of each gas piping system should be determined by
standard engineering practices
Proper sizing of the gas pipe assures that each gas appliance receive enough gas to perform
safely and properly. The f goal of determining the pipe sizing of gas piping system is to be
assured that the gas pressure at the inlet to each appliance is sufficient.
To understand gas pipe size the following must be under stood
1. Natural gas delivery is measured in cubic feet. Gas deliver y is not a measure of pressure
however is a measure of volume at a given pressure.
2. Gas pipe sizing is in cubic feet (cf)
3. Appliance gas use is measured in BTU (British Thermal Units) It is the amount of energy
needed to cool or heat one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The heat value
(energy content) of fuels is expressed in BTUs.
I. A BTU can be approximated as the heat produced by burning a single wooden
match


II. A BTU can be approximated as the amount of energy it takes to lift a one-pound
weight 778 feet (237 m).
4. Conversions must be made from BTU of the appliance demand to cubic feet of delivery of
gas
I. conventionally 1 MMBtu (1 million BTU) = 1.054615 GJ.
[9]

II. The high or low heating value, energy content of a volume of natural gas varies
with the composition of the natural gas.
III. There is no universal conversion factor for the number of BTU to volume. 1
standard cubic foot of typical natural gas yields 1030 BTU
(a) between 1010 BTU and 1070 BTU,
(b) depending on quality, when burned
IV. As an approximation, 1000 ft
3
of natural gas yields 1 MMBTU 1 GJ
V. 1 ft
3
of natural gas yields 1000 BTU
VI.
5. The specific gravity of the gas is needed ( the table ares based upon a specific gravity of
0.60)
Proper Gas Pipe Size
Residential gas system and the appliances all have the same, or nearly the same, requirement for
minimum gas pressure at the appliance inlet.
The average resinditial gas pressure is about 5 in. (1.2 kPa) w.c., which is enough for proper
operation of the appliance regulator to deliver about 3.5 in. (0.87 kPa) w.c.
There are other systems, however, where the required inlet pressure to the different
appliances could be quite varied. In such cases, the greatest inlet pressure required must be
satisfied, as well as the farthest appliance, which is almost always the critical appliance in small
systems.
Additional requirements
The capacity of the system at 100 percent flow.
That requirement is that at minimum flow,
The pressure at the inlet to any appliance does not exceed the pressure rating of the
appliance regulator.
This factor would seldom be of concern in small systems
I the source pressure is psi (14 in. w.c.) (3.4 kPa) or less, should be verified for
systems with greater gas pressure at the point of supply.
recognizes that each appliance must be supplied with the minimum gas pressure
required by the appliance for proper operation at its inlet. The farthest appliance and the
highest appliance inlet demands must be met.
General Pipe Sizing Considerations
To determine the size of piping used in a gas piping system, the following factors must be
considered:
1. Allowable loss in pressure from point of delivery to appliance
2. Maximum gas demand
3. Length of piping and number of fittings
4. Specific gravity of the gas
5. Diversity factor
Pipe sizing based on the Longest Length Method.
This sizing method is conservative in its approach by applying the maximum operating
conditions in the system .
To determine the size of each section of gas piping in a system within the range of the
capacity tables, proceed as follows
1. Divide the piping system into appropriate segments consistent with the presence of
tees, branch lines, and main runs.
2. For each segment, determine the gas load (assuming all appliances operate
simultaneously) and its overall length.
3. An allowance (in equivalent length of pipe) as determined from Table B.3.2 should
be considered for piping segments that include four or more fittings.
4. Determine the gas demand of each appliance to be attached to the piping system.
5. Use the Table to select the piping size, calculate the gas demand in terms of cubic
feet per hour for each piping system outlet. Where Table 6.3(a) through Table
6.3(m) are to be used to select the piping size, calculate the gas demand in terms of
thousands of Btu per hour for each piping system outlet.
6. Where the piping system is for use with other than undiluted LP-Gases, determine
the design system pressure, the allowable loss in pressure (pressure drop), and
specific gravity of the gas to be used in the piping system.
7. Determine the length of piping from the point of delivery to the most remote outlet
in the building/piping system.
8. In the appropriate capacity table, select the row showing the measured length or the
next longer length if the table does not give the exact length. This length is the only
length used in determining the size of any section of gas piping. If the gravity factor
is to be applied, the values in the selected row of the table are multiplied by the
appropriate multiplier from Table
9. Use this horizontal row to locate ALL gas demand figures for this particular system
of piping.
1. Starting at the most remote outlet, find the gas demand for that outlet in the horizontal row just
selected. If the exact figure of demand is not shown, choose the next larger figure left in the row.
2. Opposite this demand figure, in the first row at the top, the correct size of gas piping will be
found.
3. Proceed in a similar manner for each outlet and each section of gas piping. For each section of
piping, determine the total gas demand supplied by that section.
When a large number of piping components (such as elbows, tees, and valves) are installed in a
pipe run, additional pressure loss can be accounted for by the use of equivalent lengths. Pressure
loss across any piping component can be equated to the pressure drop through a length of pipe.
The equivalent length of a combination of only four elbows/tees can result in a jump to the next
larger length row, resulting in a significant reduction in capacity. The equivalent lengths in feet
shown in Table B.3.2have been computed on a basis that the inside diameter corresponds to that
of Schedule 40 (standard weight) steel pipe, which is close enough for most purposes involving
other schedules of pipe. Where a more specific solution for equivalent length is desired, this can
be made by multiplying the actual inside diameter of the pipe in inches by n/12, or the actual
inside diameter in feet by n. N can be read from the table heading. The equivalent length values
can be used with reasonable accuracy for copper or brass fittings and bends, although the
resistance per foot of copper or brass pipe is less than that of steel. For copper or brass valves,
however, the equivalent length of pipe should be taken as 45 percent longer than the values in
the table, which are for steel pipe.


The Branch Length Method.
This sizing method reduces the amount of conservatism built into the traditional Longest
Length Method. The longest length as measured from the meter to the farthest remote appliance
is used only to size the initial parts of the overall piping system. The Branch Length Method is
applied in the following manner:
1. Determine the gas load for each of the connected appliances.
2. Starting from the meter, divide the piping system into a number of connected segments, and
determine the length and amount of gas that each segment would carry, assuming that all
appliances were operated simultaneously. An allowance (in equivalent length of pipe) as
determined from Table B.3.2 should be considered for piping segments that include four or
more fittings.
3. Determine the distance from the outlet of the gas meter to the appliance farthest removed from
the meter.
4. Using the longest distance (found in Step 3), size each piping segment from the meter to the
most remote appliance outlet.
5. For each of these piping segments, use the longest length and the calculated gas load for all of
the connected appliances for the segment and begin the sizing process in Steps 6 through 8.
6. Referring to the appropriate sizing table (based on operating conditions and piping material),
find the longest length distance in the first column or the next larger distance if the exact
distance is not listed. The use of alternative operating pressures and/or pressure drops requires
the use of a different sizing table but does not alter the sizing methodology. In many cases, the
use of alternative operating pressures and/or pressure drops requires the approval of both the
authority having jurisdiction and the local gas serving utility.
7. Trace across this row until the gas load is found or the closest larger capacity if the exact
capacity is not listed.
8. Read up the table column and select the appropriate pipe size in the top row. Repeat Steps 6, 7,
and 8 for each pipe segment in the longest run.
9. Size each remaining section of branch piping not previously sized by measuring the distance
from the gas meter location to the most remote outlet in that branch, using the gas load of
attached appliances, and follow the procedures of Steps 2 through 8.



Frequently used units for measuring natural gas:
1. 1 cubic foot (cf) 1,027 Btu
2. 100 cubic feet (1 ccf) 1 therm (approximate)
3. 1,000 cubic feet (1 Mcf) = 1,027,000 Btu (1 MMBtu)
4. 1,000 cubic feet (1 Mcf) = 1 dekatherm (10 therms)
5. 1 million (1,000,000) cubic feet (1 Mmcf) = 1,027,000,000 Btu
6. 1 billion (1,000,000,000 cubic feet (1 bcf) = 1.027 trillion Btu
7. 1 trillion (1,000,000,000,000) cubic feet (1Tcf) = 1.027 quadrillion Btu
8. To convert 1 foot of water to psi. Feet of water x 0.4335= PSI. I divided .4335 by 12 (in
per ft) for a mult. of .036125. So, inches of water x 0.03625 = PSI. 1
(PSI)/0.036125=27.682...roughly 28"


Each appliance has a minimum input demand in BTUs per hour. The chart below gives some
examples of typical BTU demands.
Look at the chart to assist you in determining the proper pipe size for your job.
To convert from BTUs to cubic feet per hour divide BTU by 1100 (example: 50,000 BTU
by 1100 = 45.45 cubic feet of gas per hour).
To get BTU from cubic feet, multiply cubic x feet 1100 (45.45 cubic feet x 1100 = 50,000
BTU.)











1. Approved gas piping fitting materials
Black iron and corrugated stainless steel (CSST) are commonly used approved materials. CSST
requires certification from the manufacturer for anyone who is going to purchase and install the
material.


1. Follow all applicable local and state codes, see the latest edition of NFPA 54 National
Fuel Gas Code. NFPA 54: National Fuel Gas Code provides industry-accepted guidance
for the safe installation and operation of fuel gas piping systems, appliances, equipment,
and accessories.

2. Cutting pipe
If you are cutting iron pipe, you must ream the cut of your pipe so you maintain the full inside
diameter of the pipe.

3. Special instructions
Do not use ground joint unions except directly at the meter or after the shutoff valve at the
appliance. Each place where you will have a gas appliance must have a gas shutoff valve and drip
tee.
Any person who installs gas piping on property not under their ownership must possess a Gas
Piping Mechanic License. All gas piping installations require a permit and inspection.

5. Testing
I. Testing the system is your responsibility. The inspector does not perform the test or
provide any of the equipment necessary for the test, including test gauges.
Use Approved Gas Pipe
Installation

II. An air pressure test is required. The test pressure shall be at least 1 times the working
pressure, but no less than 15 pounds per square inch (psi). The test duration shall not be
less than 10 minutes. The piping system shall withstand the test pressure specified
without showing any evidence of leakage or other defects.

III. 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. For instance, a 3
psi test will require a maximum 15 pound gauge

IV. The piping system shall be under test (pressurized) and the test gauge visible at the time
of inspection.

V. Where the gauge does not indicate the minimum pressure required for the test, or any
reduction of test pressures as indicated by pressure gauges during inspection shall be
deemed to indicate the presence of a leak.

VI. If there is a drop in pressure, check for leaks. Check for leaks by filling a spray bottle with
soapy water and spraying the solution on the pipe, where it meets the fittings. Bubbles
show a leak and you should repair it appropriately. Continue this process until you have
no leaks. Do not use an open flame to test for leaks.

VII. The pressure drop in the piping is subtracted from the source delivery pressure to verify
that the minimum is available at the appliance.
VIII.
6. Inspection
I. At the time of inspection, be sure to leave all of the gas piping exposed so the inspector
can look at the whole system.
II. Have demand load ready to show

Minimum Demand of Typical Gas Appliances in BTUs Per Hour
Appliance
Demand in BTU/hour
Barbecue (residential) 40,000
Domestic clothes dryer 35,000
Domestic Gas Range 65,000
Domestic Recessed Oven Section 25,000
Fireplace Gas Log 80,000
Gas Refrigerator 3,000
Storage Water Heater, 30-40 gallon tank 35,000
Storage Water Heater, 50 gallon tank 50,000

Example:
Problem: Determine the required pipe size of each section and outlet of the piping system
shown.



diagram of piping system

Solution:

Maximum gas demand of outlet A - 35,000 BTU per hour/1100 BTU per cubic foot = 31.82 cubic
feet per hour.
Maximum gas demand of outlet B-3,000 BTU per hour/1100 BTU per cubic foot = 2.73 cubic
feet per hour.

Maximum gas demand of outlet C-65,000 BTU per hour/1100 BTU per cubic foot = 59.09 cubic
feet per hour.

Maximum gas demand of outlet D-150,000 BTU per hour/1100 BTU per cubic foot = 136.36
cubic feet per hour.


The length of pipe from the gas meter to the most remote outlet (outlet A) is 60 feet.

Using the column marked 60 feet on the size of gas pipe charge:
Outlet A, supplying 31.82 cubic feet per hour, requires one-half inch pipe.

Section 1, supplying outlets A and B, or 34.55 cubic feet per hour requires one-half inch pipe.
Section 2, supplying outlet A, B and C, or 93.64 cubic feet per hour requires three-quarter inch
pipe. Section 3, supplying outlets A, B, C, and D, or 230 cubic feet per hour, requires one-inch
pipe.

Using the column market 60 feet: Outlet B supplying 2.73 cubic feet per hour requires one-half
inch pipe. Outlet C, supplying 59.09 cubic feet per hour, requires one-half inch pipe.

Using the column marked 50 feet: Outlet D, supplying 136.36 cubic feet per hour, requires
three-quarter inch pipe.
.
Size of gas piping
1. Gas type is natural gas.
2. The inlet pressure is 0.5 psi or less.
3. The allowable pressure drop is 0.5 inches water column.
4. The specific gravity of the gas being supplied is 0.60.

PIPE
SIZE

10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 125
172 118 95 81 72 65 60 56 52 50 44
360 247 199 170 151 137 126 117 110 104 92
1 678 466 374 320 284 257 237 220 207 195 173
1 1390 957 768 657 583 528 486 452 424 400 355
1 2090 1430 1150 985 873 791 728 677 635 600 532
2 4020 2760 2220 1900 1680 1520 1400 1300 1234 1160 1020
2 1/2 6400 4400 3530 3020 2680 2430 2230 2080 1950 1840 1630
3 11300 7780 6250 5350 4740 4290 3950 3670 3450 3260 2890
4 23100 15900 12700 10900 9660 8760 8050 7490 7030 6640 5890