Oxidation on Copper Gas Line

[Bruce A. King]

Joe, it could be type k which is ok or it could be other types.
type k has a thicker wall.

Its just not visible on most inspections and I would not be concerned with it really because it could be type k.

All types of copper is ok for propane.

I would report the oxidation as being present.

[David P. Valley]

Originally Posted by jfunderburk

Please tell me exactly why that is?

As I stated earlier...

You won't see that in my area. 1/4 inch copper tubing (with no joints) is the maximum I see in Massachusetts.

In the hundreds of inspections I've performed, I've never ran into 3/4 copper supply line (esp. with joints) in Massachusetts. We use 1/4 copper tubing (no joints) and black steel.

SC may have different codes relating to gas supply line material.

I simply do not like what I see...

[wcottrell]

Joe,
It appears that the line was soldered as opposed to being brazed. I would call for evaluation as well. I beleive SC requires this line to be brazed for gas service. The 3/4 inch line might be required for the proper gas flow depending on the size and BTUs of the water heater.
Regards Bill

[David A. Andersen]

If this is a gas supply line? (Gas or Water?) 3/4" is too big for residential needs!?

1. Copper can be used in LP.
2. Fitting is not needed. Pipe can be bent.
3. Silver brazing is required.
4. Fittings/splices should not be made in an enclosed space.

The oxide your are asking about is flux as posted above.

[Brian E. Kelly]

http://www.copper.org/applications/f...-fittings.html

NEW YORK - The 2000 Editions of the Uniform Plumbing Code and Uniform Mechanical Code contain provisions for the use of copper tube in natural gas-distribution systems. The revised codes reflect acceptance of copper tube and fittings for gas-distribution applications by the International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) after review during the code body's annual Education and Business Conference last August

Gas installation regulations aim to avoid joints within walls or other inaccessible places where undetected leakage might cause an accumulation of gas. However, joints in these locations may sometimes be unavoidable. Since mechanical joints are prohibited in inaccessible locations, brazed joints should be used, provided they are approved by the authority having jurisdiction. These joints should be inspected and tested prior to enclosure to ensure a leak-free system. Minimization of joints, especially in inaccessible areas, can be easily accomplished using long, flexible lengths of copper tube.

http://www.copper.org/about/pressrel...echanical.html


The oxidation is caused by oxygen, the situation has been exacerbated by improper cleaning of the joints after Brazing.

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

I don't know how ya'll can tell if it's 3/4 by looking at a picture that has no scale to it. I don't remember it being that big.

[Brian E. Kelly]

Originally Posted by jfunderburk

I don't know how ya'll can tell if it's 3/4 by looking at a picture that has no scale to it. I don't remember it being that big.

They can't with out a scale of reference Joe.

I would have recomended protection from physical damage though, depending on the location of course.

[David A. Andersen]

Baseboard?
PVC pipe 1 1/2, the next size down is 3/4.
Reference? I saw reference.

[Jay Moge]

judging by the baseboard molding (3 1/2 base with 1/2 cove) i'd say the pipe IS 1/2". fairly confident with that one.

[lfoster]

Natural gas causes the copper tubing to deteriorate. When I smelled gas (for a while), located it at the water heater supply line - copper tubing appx. 30 years old. It was eaten away and easily fell out of the screw connector when it was moved.
Linda

[Joe Funderburk, CMI]

Originally Posted by lfoster

Natural gas causes the copper tubing to deteriorate.

Then why is it allowed? Is there really some scientific evidence that gas causes the metal to deteriorate? I'm not trying to be a wise guy...just trying to learn. As the code cited earlier in this thread shows, it is allowed.

...copper tubing appx. 30 years old. It was eaten away...Linda

Lots of things fail at 30 years old. I necessarily wouldn't blame it on the type of metal used in the supply line, unless there is some proof that gas and copper don't mix.

[David P. Valley]

Originally Posted by jfunderburk

I don't know how ya'll can tell if it's 3/4 by looking at a picture that has no scale to it. I don't remember it being that big.

I'll put money on it, that that copper piping is 3/4".

[Patrick Bolliger]

Did you check with your local gas company regarding what there standards are? Maybe a no no with respect to install and or sizing / material.


This could be a another "Saturday" project.. Hmm "Lets" solder this puppy while there is gas in it..."

A side note: I wonder what is the pressure is too.. Figure gas under pressure passing a restriction will get very cold at that point and condensation will occur when ambient exterior temperatures are warmer. Hence sweating will occur.. Improper cleaning after soldering will leave compounds that lead to oxidation and promote further problems.

[Jay Moge]

Originally Posted by dvalley

I'll put money on it, that that copper piping is 3/4".

your geographicly close enough to square up on this one dave, although we may never know for sure, but i'd bet that the p.v.c. it runs threw is 3/4 and the pipe is 1/2''. what do you say,??? do we have a bet??

[Larry D. Kage]

By sizing it with the baseboard, I'd say 1/2" copper too.