As our infrastructure ages, it is a sure thing that some corrections will have to be made. Back in the day, say the 1960’s and early ‘70’s a lot of construction took place. Some communities had little or no standards beyond those set down in national standards or the building code. Since most gas lines are black pipe there are some considerations.
Gas Pipeline Failures
Most gas line failures occur at the joints or connectors. Any signs of corrosion or rust on any part of the gas delivery system is a cause for concern. A lot of connectors are galvanized. Zinc is a sacrificial coating that prevents corrosion. Sacrificial means that the zinc attracts the oxidizing and corroding factors. But at some point, the corrosion protection will be used up and the underlying base metals will begin to corrode. To protect the pressurized gas pipe it is many times laid inside of PVC pipe. Because of the corrosion connection elements will need to be inspected and replaced if failing. Natural gas lines are connected via a bell and spigot joint. A flare in the pipe end is the bell, and the part that slips into the bell is the spigot. There is a compressible seal. As these seals age and dry out, they can form cracks leading to leakage. Bell and spigot is used for major pipe runs, but many residential uses black pipe to connect to the home.
How Gas Pipe Leaks are Repaired
Minor leaks can be repaired with an epoxy-resin sleeve. Being made of fiberglass they are perfect for gas pipe repair. A major pipe replacement though will call for some resin compound. The dope or thread compound contains Teflon and when is dries it seals the threads, creating a gas tight fit.
Natural Gas Pipelines
Natural gas is mostly methane and is delivered via pipelines. It is a very efficient fuel. In those areas where direct heat is needed natural gas fired appliances are supreme. Furnaces, water heaters and top burners on the stove. Ovens, however, generally benefit from convection currents and are electric in dual fuel ranges. If the energy source is matched to the job it will all balance out. In fact, there was an initiative years ago for balanced powered homes with electrical and natural gas service. Gas is delivered to the home under modest pressure. Gas is usually only about ¼ psi gauge pressure. Gauge pressure is set to zero at 14.7 psi or atmospheric pressure at sea level. Therefore, gauge pressure is 14.7 + ¼ psi and equals 14.95 psi total. Main distribution lines can top out at about 1,500 psi.
Gas Line Pipe Services & More in Spring, The Woodlands, Magnolia, Montgomery & Conroe Texas
On one hand gas systems are fairly safe, or it would not be be generally available with such a large distribution. But leaks can not be tolerated. That is why a technician should test the gas system when you buy a home. Better to be safe than sorry. Everything that goes for natural gas pertains to propane as well. Propane is compressible and can be liquified under pressure making for comparatively high energy density that will provide heat to your home. Unlike gasoline or diesel natural gas does not age or breakdown. The propane in that barbecue tank will be good a 100 years from now as it is today. When buying a new a complete plumbing check the gas lines, water and drains will go along way in distilling confidence in your new purchase. Orsack Plumbing Company can meet all your plumbing needs. Contact us today!
