CSST Flexible Gas Pipe System Design and Installation Manual
Suggested Tools for Installation of HOME-FLEX® Use to cut HOME-FLEX® tubing to desired length. Tubing Cutter Use to remove yellow protective jacket at tubing end where the fitting is to be installed. Utility Knife Use to compress the retainer ring in place on first corrugation (or valley) of the HOME-FLEX® tubing. Slip-joint (or similar) Pliers Use in fitting assembly to connect the CSST and NPT ends of the fitting.
HOME-FLEX® CSST System Design and Installation Manual Chapter 1: Introduction 1.1 User Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 1.2 Limitations of Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 1.3 Applicable Codes and Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Chapter 2: Description of System Components 2.
Concealed Locations for Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Outdoor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 4.4 Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Striker Plates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 8: Technical Information Sheet 8.1 HOME-FLEX® Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 8.2 HOME-FLEX® Fittings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 8.3 HOME-FLEX® Manifolds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 8.4 HOME-FLEX® Protection Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 1: Introduction This side of the HOME-FLEX® manual applies to HOME-FLEX® Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) and its associated metal fittings. HOME-FLEX® CSST and HOME-FLEX Underground® are two different systems with different uses and installation requirements. The tubing and fittings are not interchangeable. The corrugations of the CSST give this flexible metal gas pipe a ribbed appearance. The CSST has a yellow plastic covering over it that is referred to as a jacket.
Introduction inspected by the local authority that oversees gas plumbing prior to the supplying of gas to the system. HOME-FLEX® tubing and fittings are engineered and tested to work in combination. Using HOME-FLEX® CSST tubing or fittings with the tubing or fittings of other CSST flexible gas piping manufacturers is strictly prohibited and could lead to serious bodily injury or property damage. Exposure to high voltage electricity may cause damage to CSST systems. Strict adherence to Section 4.
• • Applicable Codes and Standards Tubing greater than 1" (25.4 mm) inside diameter installed within hollow cavity walls of 2 x 4 construction shall be protected along the entire concealed length in the manner and using the shielding devices specified by Valencia Pipe Company. The width of the installed striker plate, at the points of penetration through wall studs, floor joists, plates, sills, etc., shall be at least 1.5 times the outside diameter of the tubing.
Introduction Items marked with the CSA logo are CSA certified for the United States and Canada. NOTE: CSST approval from the above codes does not mean that CSST is approved for use in all localities. It is the installer’s responsibility to confirm that CSST is accepted by the local authority with jurisdiction over the installation site. Valencia Pipe Company assumes no responsibility for materials or labor expenses incurred as a result of the installer not verifying local approval.
Chapter 2: Description of System Components 2.1 Tubing The HOME-FLEX® fuel gas piping system employs corrugated, flexible, semi-rigid stainless steel tubing with brass attachment fittings terminating in NPT pipe fittings for integration into traditional rigid black pipe systems or direct connection to gas systems. Tubing is available in sizes of ½", ¾", and 1". HOME-FLEX® tubing is jacketed with a yellow polyethylene cover clearly marked with gas pressure rating, and EHD* (Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter).
Description of System Components Flange Nut Flange Nut Retainer Ring Female Fitting Gasket Rubber O-ring* Rubber O-ring* Male Fitting CSST Tubing Protective Jacket Gasket Retainer Ring * The o-ring does not serve as a gas sealing mechanism in the assembly. See Section 4.2 for more information. Figure 2.1 HOME-FLEX® Tubing and Fitting Assembly 2.
Striker Plates 2.3 Striker Plates Striker plates are used to protect CSST from puncture hazards when passed through studs, joists, and other building materials. Part No. Description 11-3070SP 4" x 9" Striker Plate 2.4 Pressure Regulators Pressure regulators are used in elevated pressure system installations (over 14 inches water column, or ½ PSI) to reduce pressure to standard low pressure required for appliances. Part No. Description Maxitrol 325-3L ½" NPT 7-11" w.c.
Description of System Components Use on Gas Piping. Valves listed as complying with IAS U.S. Requirement 3-88 or CGA CR91-002 but not ASME B16.33 or CGA 3.11 are not to be installed outdoors. Valves must be used in the following conditions: a) Gas appliances must have an accessible ½ PSIG manual shut-off valve upstream of connectors with a union to allow removal of appliance b) An accessible manual gas shut-off valve is required upstream of each pressure regulator on elevated pressure systems. Part No.
HOME-FLEX® Tubing Cutter 2.9 HOME-FLEX® Tubing Cutter The HOME-FLEX® Tubing Cutter is specially designed to cut HOME-FLEX® and other brands of CSST, as well as aluminum, brass, copper, and stainless steel tubing. It can accommodate tubing with an outer diameter (O.D.) from 0.2" to 1.25". Part No. Description 11-TC-02125 Tubing Cutter designed for 1/2", 3/4" and 1" HOME-FLEX® CSST 11-TCB-02 Pack of 2 replacement blades 2.
Description of System Components 2.11 HOME-FLEX® Appliance Connectors HOME-FLEX® CSST cannot be used to make direct connections to moveable appliances like gas ranges or clothes dryers (see Section 4.6 on page 31). Connection to these appliances should be made from a HOME-FLEX® Termination Flange fitting to a HOME-FLEX® Appliance Connector, or comparable device. Appliance connectors are available coated and uncoated in lengths of 12, 18, 24, 30, 36, 48, 60 and 72 inches with a variety of end fittings.
Chapter 3: Sizing and Configurations 3.1 Configuration Before routing HOME-FLEX® tubing, it is advisable to prepare a sketch from the building plans showing the locations of appliances to be serviced by the gas line, the load demands of each appliance, the point of delivery (location of gas meter or second stage liquid petroleum (LP) regulator), system pressure, and possible piping routes and lengths.
Sizing and Configurations this guide should be used to determine the tubing size required to meet BTUH input load requirements. • For natural gas with a specific gravity of 0.60, one cubic foot per hour (1 CFH) is approximately 1,000 BTUH. • For LP gas with a specific gravity of 1.52, one cubic foot per hour (1 CFH) is approximately 2,500 BTUH. For any given system and its load requirements, there are several piping system designs available to the installer using HOME-FLEX® tubing.
Sizing Methods and Examples appliance(s) with the greatest load. Parallel layouts are most commonly used in ¼ to ½ PSI systems. Dual Pressure Systems Elevated pressure systems generally have a main line from the gas supply to one or more gas pressure regulators and then a manifold with "home runs" to appliances. These runs may branch off through use of a tee, if gas loads permit.
Sizing and Configurations Allowable pressure drop can be calculated by subtracting the desired appliance inlet pressure (recommended 5 inches w.c. for natural gas and 10.5 inches w.c. for propane) from the gas source pressure (gas meter for natural gas or the secondary regulator for LP). Low pressure series systems are sized using the "longest length method" (also known as the "branch length method") in the same manner as low pressure black steel pipe systems.
Sizing Methods and Examples load of 42 CFH so it is not suitable for this system. The next size is ¾" with a maximum load of 116 CFH. ¾" tubing is the correct size for section A. Step 2 Size Section B: Determine the length of the run from the meter to the range oven and the load delivered. • The length from the meter to the range oven is 20 feet (A + B), and the load is 40 CFH (40,000 BTUH divided by 1000 CF per BTU). • Consulting Table 7.
Sizing and Configurations • Table 7.4 shows that ½" tubing has a total load of 133 CFH at 30 feet, so ½" tubing is the correct size. Step 4 Size Section D: Determine the length from the meter to the water heater. • A + D = 32 feet, and the load of the water heater is 25,000 BTUH = 25 CFH. • Table 7.4 shows that ½" tubing has a total load capacity of 116 CFH at 40 feet, so ½" tubing is the correct size. Step 5 Size Section E: Determine the length from the Range oven to the Furnace.
Sizing Methods and Examples Example 4: Medium Pressure Parallel Arrangement with a Series Branch This installation has a barbecue installed near the water heater. Given the number of appliances, a parallel arrangement was selected for the system, with a single run supplying the barbecue and the water heater in series. Med Pressure (12-14" w.c.) 1/2 PSI Gas Meter 30,000 BTUH Dryer Range Oven 40,000 BTUH D Furnace C B 60,000 BTUH E A BBQ F 50,000 BTUH Water Heater G 25,000 BTUH Figure 3.
Sizing and Configurations Step 6 Size Section F: Determine the total length and load. • The BBQ load is 50 CFH and the length is 60 feet (A + E + F). • ½" Tubing has a maximum capacity of 96 CFH at 60 feet so ½" is the correct size. Step 7 Size Section G: Determine the total length and load. • The water heater load is 25 CFH and the length is 50 feet (A + E + G). • ½" Tubing has a maximum capacity of 104 CFH at 50 feet, so ½" is the correct size.
Sizing Methods and Examples 400 CFH, which at 70 feet can be supplied by 1¼" pipe with a maximum capacity of 490 CFH. 1¼" pipe is the correct size for section A2. • To size section A3, we can reduce the load by another 190 CFH to 210 CFH for the remaining heater and the water heater. At 70-feet, 1" pipe can supply a maximum of 240 CFH, which is sufficient for the run. 1" pipe is the correct size. • To size section A4, the load is reduced to just the 60 CFH of the water heater.
Chapter 4: Installation Practices 4.1 General Practices HOME-FLEX® CSST flexible gas piping material must be installed by a Qualified Installer who has been certified in the use of the HOME-FLEX® gas piping system. Installers must meet applicable qualifications set forth by the state and/or local administrative authorities which enforce the plumbing, mechanical, electrical and/or building codes at the locale where the gas piping is to be installed.
Fitting Assembly Table 4.2 Recommended Horizontal and Vertical Support Spacing for HOME-FLEX® Tubing Tubing Size Horizontal Support Spacing ½" (13 mm) 6 ft. ¾" (19 mm) 1" (25 mm) 8 ft. (USA) 6 ft. (CAN) Vertical Support Spacing 10 ft. 4.2 Fitting Assembly HOME-FLEX® fittings achieve seal by compressing the tubing into the gasket (Figure 4.2). It is critical that the cut end of the tubing is clean of Table 4.
Installation Practices Male, Female, Union and Tee Fitting Assembly Step 1 Cut HOME-FLEX® tubing to length Using a stainless steel rated tube cutter, cut the HOME-FLEX® tubing to the desired length, leaving at least 1 extra inch for placement of the fitting. Cut in the valley of the tubing and clean any burrs or jagged edges. Cut in full circular strokes in one direction, tightening gradually after each rotation. Be careful to not overtighten the roller as it could flatten the HOME-FLEX® tubing.
Fitting Assembly Male, Female, Union and Tee Fitting Assembly Step 5 Install HOME-FLEX® fitting in destination (manifold, pipe system, fixed appliance, etc.) Make sure that the gasket inside the HOME-FLEX® fitting is secure on the socket. Apply a pipe sealant to the tapered (NPT) thread of the fitting and install it in the gas system. Step 6 Attach flange nut to the installed HOME-FLEX® fitting Place the HOME-FLEX® flange nut onto the installed fitting.
Installation Practices Termination Fitting Assembly (Parts 11-464-XXX) Step 1 Cut HOME-FLEX® tubing to length Route CSST through structure to the desired location of the termination flange. Bend tubing as required so it exits the structure in desired direction of the termination plate. Cut the excess CSST so about 2" of tubing extends beyond the wall.
Routing Termination Fitting Assembly (Parts 11-464-XXX) Step 5 Place fitting and assemble flange Pull termination flange toward end of tubing so it catches on the retainer ring, ensuring that the retainer ring and flange are flush. The base of the flange should be parallel with tubing corrugation. DO NOT use sealant tape or pipe dope on parallel threads between flange and fitting.
Installation Practices • Inside hollow interior wall cavities. Routing inside wall cavities is preferred for vertical sections of tubing. Horizontal runs through wall cavities should be avoided to minimize the need for striker protection from puncture hazards. • Through approved conduit underground or under building slabs.
Routing Routing through vertical wall framing Requirements for boring through vertical members of wall framing differ depending on whether the member is bearing or not. For non-bearing members (Figure 4.5), the size of the hole should be no larger than 60% of the width of the member. For bearing members, the size of such hole should be no more than 40% of the member. (Figure 4.
Installation Practices HOME-FLEX® connections to fireplace key valves can be located in a concealed location, provided that accessibility is not readily provided. When multiple outlets are supplied from a single tubing run (like in a series arrangement), each downstream outlet branch can be connected to the main run using a tee fitting which can be located in a concealed location. (Figure 4.7) Striker Plate Floor CSST Run Ceiling Modifications to Existing Systems Figure 4.
Protection 4.4 Protection Protection is required when HOME-FLEX® tubing is concealed, constrained, and within 3 inches of a potential threat. HOME-FLEX® flexible gas tubing must be adequately protected wherever it is at risk of damage from puncture, shearing, crushing, or other physical threats. Tubing is to be protected at support points, and when passing through structural members of the building such as studs, joists, and plates as outlined in this section.
Installation Practices Avoiding Puncture Threats The best way to protect from puncture threats (and potentially speed your installation) is to route tubing in areas of the structures where no added protection is necessary. The guidelines below will help the installer route HOME-FLEX® tubing in areas where secondary puncture protection isn’t required: 1. Support tubing such that it is more than 3 inches away from any outside edge of a stud, joist, plate, etc., or wall surface. (See Figure 4.
Appliance connections Note: Diameter of hole shall be at least 1/2" greater than OD of tubing and shall be sleeved in accordance with local building code (if applicable). Radius of 3-6" Sleeve (if required) Sealant (typical) Sealing House Service Regulator Termination Fitting Meter Service Line Figure 4.13 Connection to Building supported Meter Figure 4.
Installation Practices tems. When located in a secure dedicated place, like an attic or garage, the gas piping can be connected directly to the appliance shut-off valve without installing a special termination flange or flexible appliance connector. (Figure 4.
Appliance connections Diameter of hole shall be at least 1/2 in.
Installation Practices place is vented, it is suggested to remove the yellow jacketing inside the fire box to prevent direct flame contact with the jacket. If installing HOME-FLEX® through sheet metal enclosures (as commonly used for decorative fireplaces), it is recommended to leave the protective yellow jacketing in place through the penetration. HOME-FLEX® should be secured to the building structure outside the fireplace to limit motion after installation.
Pressure Regulators Regulators must be sized in accordance with the total appliance load (maximum flow rate), largest single appliance flow rate, inlet pressure range at the regulator inlet, and the desired outlet pressure. (Table 4.5 and Table 4.6) • • Regulators must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure the flow of gas is correct, as indicated by the flow markings on the regulator casing.
Installation Practices Performance Testing A performance test of the regulator should be conducted to confirm that adequate pressure reaches all appliances. During the test, all appliances should be running at full load to make sure that adequate pressure is maintained under full-load conditions for the gas piping system. The inlet pressure for gas appliances should be equal to, but not greater than, the appliance's recommended inlet pressure range.
Electrical Bonding Ends of conduit to be sealed Vent Table 4.7 Burial Depths for Underground Routing Outdoors Minimum of 12” 1-½” minimum concrete coverage In slab Under slab Figure 4.28 Installation in Nonmetallic Conduit with Venting Table 4.
Installation Practices The bonding conductor shall be no smaller than a 6 AWG copper wire or equivalent. The bonding conductor shall be installed and protected in accordance with the National Electrical Code, NFPA 70, (NEC) and Canadian Electrical Code CSA- C22.1 (CEC). Bonding/grounding clamps shall be installed in accordance with its listing per UL 467 and shall make metal-to-metal contact with a rigid pipe component or CSST fitting.
Chapter 5: Inspection, Repair, and Replacement of CSST 5.1 Minimum Inspection Requirements Checklist All installations shall be inspected by the authority having jurisdiction in accordance with state and local mechanical, electric, and/or plumbing codes, or in the absence of such codes, the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54/ANSI Z 223.1), the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), the National Electric Code (NFPA 70), and/or the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), as applicable.
Inspection, Repair, and Replacement of CSST 5.2 Repair of Damaged Tubing If tubing is damaged before, during, or after installation, refer to these guidelines to determine the proper course of repair. Less than 1/2 D When Pipe Needs to be Replaced If the tubing is only slightly dented due to impact, it may not need to be replaced. A slight dent is defined as a dent less than 1/3 the diameter of the pipe and does not require replacement. (Figure 5.1) D Figure 5.
Chapter 6: Pressure Test Procedures The final installation must be inspected and tested for leaks in accordance with local and/ or state codes. In the absence of local guidelines, test the system at 1½ times the maximum working pressure, but not less than 3 PSI, using the procedures specified in Chapter 8 "Inspection, Testing and Purging" of the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54/ANSI Z223). When local codes are more stringent, local codes must be followed.
Pressure Test Procedures 6.3 Appliance Connection Check Procedure After the final pressure test, inspection, and final construction are complete, appliances may be connected to the HOME-FLEX® gas piping system. This final connection can be accomplished by a HOME-FLEX® Appliance Connector (or similar device), direct connection with CSST tubing, or with rigid black pipe, depending on the appliance (see Section 4.6 for installation details and guidelines).
Chapter 7: Sizing/Capacity Tables Natural Gas Sizing Tables Table 7.1 Low Pressure (6 - 7 in w.c. with 0.5 in drop) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Table 7.2 Low Pressure (6 - 7 in w.c. with 1 in drop) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Table 7.3 Regulator Outlet (8 - 10 in w.c. with 3 in drop) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Table 7.4 Medium Pressure (12 - 14 in w.c. with 6 in drop) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Table 7.
Sizing/Capacity Tables Table 7.1 Low Pressure (6 - 7 in w.c. with 0.5 in drop) Table 7.2 Low Pressure (6 - 7 in w.c. with 1 in drop) Maximum Capacity of HOME-FLEX® CSST in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) of Natural Gas by Length of Tubing Run (Approximate 1,000 BTU/h Natural Gas per 1 CFH; based on a 0.6 specific gravity of gas) Inlet Pressure: 6-7 in w.c. (1/4 PSI) Pressure Drop: 0.5 in w.c.
Natural Gas Sizing Tables Table 7.3 Regulator Outlet (8 - 10 in w.c. with 3 in drop) Table 7.4 Medium Pressure (12 - 14 in w.c. with 6 in drop) Maximum Capacity of HOME-FLEX® CSST in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) of Natural Gas by Length of Tubing Run (Approximate 1,000 BTU/h Natural Gas per 1 CFH; based on a 0.6 specific gravity of gas) Inlet Pressure: 8-10 in w.c. Pressure Drop: 3 in w.c.
Sizing/Capacity Tables Table 7.5 Elevated Pressure (2 PSI with 1 PSI drop) Table 7.6 Elevated Pressure (5 PSI with 3.5 PSI drop) Maximum Capacity of HOME-FLEX® CSST in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) of Natural Gas by Length of Tubing Run (Approximate 1,000 BTU/h Natural Gas per 1 CFH; based on a 0.
Liquid Petroleum (LP) Sizing Tables Table 7.7 Low Pressure LP (11 in w.c. with 0.5 in w.c. drop) Table 7.8 Medium Pressure LP (13-14 in w.c. with 2.5 in w.c. drop) Maximum Capacity of HOME-FLEX® CSST in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) of Liquid Propane (LP) Gas by Length of Piping Run (Approximate 2,520 BTU/h LP Gas per 1 CFH; based on a 1.52 specific gravity of gas) Inlet Pressure: 11 in w.c. Pressure Drop: 0.5 in w.c.
Sizing/Capacity Tables Table 7.9 Elevated Pressure LP (2 PSI with 1 PSI drop) Table 7.10 Elevated Pressure LP (5 PSI with 3.5 PSI drop) Maximum Capacity of HOME-FLEX® CSST in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) of Liquid Propane (LP) Gas by Length of Piping Run (Approximate 2,520 BTU/h LP Gas per 1 CFH; based on a 1.
Steel Pipe Capacity Chart Table 7.11 Natural Gas (½ PSI or less with 0.5 in w.c. drop) Maximum Capacity of Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe in BTU/h (British Thermal Units per Hour) of Natural Gas by Length of Piping Run (Approximate 1,000 BTU/h Natural Gas per 1 CFH; based on a 0.6 specific gravity of gas) Maximum Gas Pressure: ½ PSI Pressure Drop: 0.5 in w.c. Run (ft.
Technical Information Sheet Chapter 8: Technical Information Sheet 8.1 HOME-FLEX® Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) Tubing Materials: Type 304 Stainless Steel Jacket Materials: UV/Ozone resistant polyethylene with flame retardant Specification Operating Pressure: 25 PSIG Listings: CSA 256532, IAPMO 7660 Operating Temperature Range: -40°F - 200°F 8.
Chapter 9: Definitions A.G.A. American Gas Association ANSI Z223.1 1988 The 1988 edition of the National Fuel Gas Code published by American National Standard Institute. Also known as NFPA 54 (National Fire Protection Association). Appliance (Equipment) Any device which utilizes natural gas or propane as a fuel or raw material to produce light, heat, power, refrigeration or air conditioning. Approved Acceptable to the authorities having jurisdiction.
Definitions Inches (“) Water Column (w.c.) Method of stating pressure measured in inches of water column by a manometer or pressure gauge. Commonly used in the gas industry when the pressure is less than one (1) PSI. ¼ PSI = 7 in. w.c. ½ PSI = 14 in. w.c. 1 PSI = 28 in. w.c. 2 PSI = 56 in. w.c. 5 PSI = 139 in. w.c. Joint A connection between two lengths of tubing or a length of tubing and fitting.
Regulator, Gas Appliance Pressure A device for controlling and maintaining a uniform pressure to the manifold of gas burning equipment. This valve is typically part of the appliance. It reduces the pressure from 5.5" w.c. to the manifold pressure in the appliance. Regulator, Line Gas Pressure (PSI to inches w.c.
LIMITED WARRANTY Valencia Pipe Company, Inc. (“VPC”) hereby provides a limited warranty that its HOME-FLEX® Products will be free from any defect of workmanship and material for a period of one year from the date of proof of purchase. If any of the HOME-FLEX® Products are determined to be defective by VPC, the measure of the damage is the price of the defective goods only. No charge for labor or expense required to repair defective goods, or occasioned by them, will be allowed.
