1) e XR3-series fitting is designed to work on Gastite and FlashShield CSSTs. However, CSST end-prep varies by
CSST product type. Reference the chart below for proper CSST end-prep and bushing placement for the product
you have selected.
PRODUCTCSST END-PREPBUSHING PLACEMENT
Two-Step
End-Prep
FlashShield™
CSST
One-Step
End-Prep
FlashShield+™
or Gastite
2) Licensed Installers Only. Every installer of FlashShield™, FlashShield+™, or Gastite® must first meet all applicable
qualifications in accordance with state and/or local requirements as established by the administrative authorities that
enforce the plumbing or mechanical codes where gas piping is installed.
®
CSST
3) Qualified Installers Only. In addition to be licensed in the jurisdiction, FlashShield™, FlashShield+™, or Gastite®
corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) flexible gas piping material must only be installed by an installer who has
been successfully trained through the FlashShield™ and Gastite® training program.
4) Check for Updates. Installers should check with their local distributor or at www.gastite.com for technical bulletins
or updated Design & Installation Guides for FlashShield™, FlashShield+™, or Gastite® every year.
5) Proper Installation. Sound engineering principles and practices must be exercised for the proper design of fuel gas
piping systems, in addition to compliance with local codes. e installation instructions and procedures contained
in this Design & Installation Guide must be strictly followed in order to provide a safe and effective flexible fuel gas
piping system or system modification. All installations must pass inspections by the local official having authority
prior to having the gas service turned on. All requirements of the local natural gas utility or propane supplier must
also be met.
FLASHSHIELDFLASHSHIELD+
Electrically Insulative
Polymer
Metallic Shield
High Tensile Polyester
Metallic Shield
Semi-conductive
Polymer
Electrically
Insulative
Polymer
Semi-conductive
Polymer
SECTION 1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 GENERAL USER WARNINGS ............................................................................................................. 1
1.2 LIMITATIONS OF THE GUIDELINES .................................................................................................. 3
1.3 STANDARDS, LISTINGS AND CODES ................................................................................................ 3
SECTION 2.0 SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS & COMPONENTS
2.1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS .................................................................................................................... 4
2.1.2 FLASHSHIELD™ SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ......................................................................................................... 4
2.1.3 FLASHSHIELD+™ SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ...................................................................................................... 5
2.2.6 PIPE SUPPORT SYSTEM .................................................................................................................................11
2.2.8 SHUT- OFF VALVES AND QUICK CONNECTS ............................................................................................... 12
2.2.9 TOO LS ......................................................................................................................................................... 13
2.2.11 SYSTEM IDENTIFICATION........................................................................................................................... 13
2.2.12 LINE REGULATORS ..................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1.1 I N T R O D U CTION ........................................................................................................................................... 16
3.1.2 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................................ 16
3.1.3 REFERENCE DATA FOR PROPER SYSTEM SIZING .......................................................................................... 16
3.1.4 DETERMINING SYSTEM LAYOUT .............................................................................................................17-18
3.1.5 ALLOWABLE PRESSURE DROP ..................................................................................................................... 19
4.3.7 FIRE R ATED CONSTRUCTIONS ..................................................................................................................... 52
4.3.8 ROUTING THROUGH MASONRY MATERIAL ............................................................................................... 52
4.3.9 CLEARANCE FROM THE U NDERSIDE OF A ROOF DECK .............................................................................. 53
4.5 METER ............................................................................................................................................ 55
4.6.2 DIRECT CONNECTION – NON-MOVEABLE APPLIANCES ............................................................................. 57
4.6.3 GAS CONVENIENCE OUTLET ...................................................................................................................... 57
4.6.4 SPECIAL APPLICATIONS ........................................................................................................................58– 62
4.8.3 INS TAL L ATIO N ............................................................................................................................................ 65
5.3.2 METHOD OF REPAIR.................................................................................................................................... 71
roughout the guide, the term FlashShield™ will apply to both FlashShield™ and FlashShield ™ CSST systems,
except where FlashShield ™ is specifically referenced.
e installation of FlashShield™ Flexible Gas Piping must be performed by a qualified installer who has successfully
completed the FlashShield™ training program. Certification training is available through qualified distributors, and at
www.gastite.com. e installer must meet all qualifications and requirements to install gas piping as required by the local
administrative authority. Improper installation or operation of a FlashShield™ Flexible Gas Piping system may result in fire,
explosion or asphyxiation.
WARNING: is product can expose you to chemicals including Lead, and Nickel, which are known to the
State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to
www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
is document provides the user with general guidance when designing and installing fuel gas piping using FlashShield™
Flexible Gas Piping. is guideline must be used in conjunction with all applicable building standards and codes. In the
event that there is a conflict between this guideline and local code the more stringent requirement will take precedence.
e use of fuel gas can be dangerous. Special attention must be given to the proper design, installation, testing and
application of the gas piping system. Sound engineering practices and principles must be exercised, as well as diligent
adherence to the proper installation procedures to ensure the safe operation of the piping system. All installed systems must
pass customary installation inspections by the local building official having authority prior to being placed into service.
Only the components provided or specified by Gastite® as part of the FlashShield™ flexible fuel piping system are to be
used in the installation. Use of components from other flexible gas piping systems other than those specified as part of
the FlashShield™ system is prohibited and may result in poor system performance and serious bodily injury or property
damage. Where additions, repairs or replacements involve corrugated stainless steel tubing systems from manufacturers
other than Gastite Division, the systems should be joined using standard pipe fittings at the interface.
is manual cannot take into account all situations or locations in which FlashShield™ flexible gas piping will be installed.
Accordingly, installers should also take into account guidance provided by the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/
NFPA-54, National Standard of Canada, Natural Gas and Propane Installation Code B149.1, the Uniform Plumbing
Code, the International Code Series, the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards, 24 CFR Part
3280, the Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards, ICC/ANSI 2.0 or the Standard on Manufactured
Housing, NFPA 501. Gastite Division shall have no responsibility for any misinterpretation of the information contained
in this guide or any improper installation or repair work or other deviation from procedures recommended in this manual,
whether pursuant to local building codes or engineering specifications or otherwise.
Gastite Division makes no representation or warranty, and nothing contained in this manual shall imply that this manual
contains the best or the only approved method for installing corrugated stainless steel piping systems or that this manual’s
contents are appropriate for all circumstances. In the event that there is a conflict between this guideline and local code the
more stringent requirement will take precedence. Performance of accessory devices, such as pressure regulators and shut
off valves should be reconfirmed by contacting the accessory device manufacturer and receiving the latest technical data on
sizing, installation and performance.
A FlashShield™ Flexible Gas Piping system offers advantages over other gas delivery systems because of its corrugated
design. In contrast to rigid steel pipe, FlashShield™ does not require intermediate joints in most installations because the
tubing is capable of being installed in one continuous run, reducing not only the total number of joints, but also the
potential for leaks at joints. FlashShield’s flexibility also affords more installation options because an installer can avoid
existing obstacles, and it eliminates the repetitive measuring, cutting, threading and joint assembly that is common with
installation of rigid steel piping systems. FlashShield™ flexibility offers even further safety advantages in geographic areas
that are prone to seismic activity because the tubing is able to move as the ground or the structure shifts.
While FlashShield™ provides significant advantages over more rigid gas delivery systems, its flexible design may make it
more likely than steel pipe to be punctured by a nail or other sharp objects, or damaged by other extraordinary forces such
as lightning strike, depending on the circumstances.
Corrosive substances: Steel piping, brass fittings and valves can be corroded by various chemical substances which may be
present on a jobsite or in a structure. Chlorinated compounds can cause pitting and crevice corrosion of stainless steel.
Ammonia and other nitrogenous compounds can cause stress corrosion cracking of brass. FlashShield's jacket system
provides protection from many harmful substances and should remain intact over the lengths of stainless steel tubing to
maintain this protection.
While not exhaustive, the list below provides guidance of substances which should not come into contact with stainless
steel or brass. If there is a question about the suitability of a certain substance in the environment, the user should refer to
the ingredient list or contact the manufacturer.
is document is intended to aid the professional gas installer in the design, installation and testing of fuel gas piping
systems using corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) for residential housing, commercial and industrial buildings.
It would be impossible for this guideline to anticipate and cover every possible variation in building configurations,
construction styles, appliance loads and code restrictions. erefore, there will be applications that will not be covered by
this guideline. For applications that go beyond the scope of this guideline, the installer should exercise sound engineering
principles and practices and/or contact Gastite for engineering assistance.
e techniques outlined within this guideline are recommended practice for generic applications. ese practices must be
reviewed for compliance with all applicable local fuel gas and building codes. In the event that there is a conflict between
this guide and local code, the more stringent requirement will take precedence.
Using components from other flexible gas piping systems other than those specified as part of the FlashShield™ system
is prohibited and may result in poor system performance and serious bodily injury or property damage. Additional
information pertaining to gas piping systems is available from your local gas utility or propane supplier. Please visit the
Gastite web site at www.gastite.com for additional updates and technical bulletins.
1.3 STANDARDS, LISTINGS AND CODES
FlashShield™ corrugated stainless steel tubing systems comply with the following standards, listings and model codes.
STANDARDS
ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26 – Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST)
ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26 – 25 PSI operating pressure rating
ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26 Sec. 5.16 – Arc Resistant (AR) Jacket Rating
ICC-ES PMG LC1027 – Protective Jacketed CSST, A Minimum 36-Coulomb Charge Transfer
LISTINGS
• CSA – CSA International - Certificate No. 2728525
• ICC – International Code Council – Evaluation Report Number PMG-1019, PMG-1155
• IAPMO – International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials – File Number 3250, Report #0239
CODE COMPLIANCE
• ICC – International Code Series
• Canada – National Gas & Propane Installation Code B149.1
• NFPA – National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54)
• UMC – Uniform Mechanical Code
• UPC – Uniform Plumbing Code
While every effort has been made to prepare this document in accordance with all regional model codes in effect at its
printing, Gastite cannot guarantee that the local administrative authority will accept the most recent version of these
codes. It is the ultimate responsibility of the installer to determine suitability and acceptance of any building component
including gas piping. Gastite assumes no responsibility for labor or material for installations made without prior
determination of local code authority acceptance.
SECTION 2: SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS & COMPONENTS / JANUARY 2019
SECTION 2.0 SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS & COMPONENTS
2.1 SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS
2.1.1 FLASHSHIELD™ SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
a) e FlashShield™ Flexible Gas Piping System has been tested in accordance with the American National Standard for Fuel
Gas Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing, ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26. is standard lists performance requirements
for certification of CSST systems for use with all recognized fuel gases, including Natural Gas and Propane. FlashShield™ is
also tested and listed in accordance with ICC-ES PMG LC1027, listing criteria for protective jacketed CSST.
• Electrically insulative polymer jacket
• Metallically shielded CSST
• Shield is electrically continuous through fitting joints.
• System uses corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) made of type 304 alloy, ASTM A240.
• e ANSI LC1 standard rates FlashShield for use at pressures up to 25 PSI.
• FlashShield™ is listed to the Arc Resistant (AR) tests of ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26 and ICC-ES PMG LC1027.
b) e tubing is connected using XR3 mechanical brass fittings.
• e self-flaring fitting creates a one step, reusable, metal-on-metal seal.
• Fitting creates metal shield-to-fitting electrical connectivity.
• e jacket is clamped by the fitting (Jacket-Lock™) thereby minimizing the risk of corrosives contacting the CSST.
• Fittings have standard NPT threads and may be used in combination with all approved fuel gas piping materials with
the pipe threads as the interface. System components such as manifolds, tees and stubouts may be fabricated from other
approved materials to be used with FlashShield™ flexible gas piping.
c) e multi-layered jacket is fabricated over the stainless steel tubing to provide a flexible, protective covering. e jacket
and metallic shield are added features of the tubing and do not affect the flaring/sealing process.
• Integrated metallic shield between insulative polymer outer cover and semi-conductive poly inner layer.
• e jacket is engineered with thermal and UV resistant material making it suitable for outdoor use.
• e jacket provides a smooth outside surface; this surface greatly aids in pulling the tube through tight building spaces.
• e polymer jacket blend contains flame and smoke additives making it ASTM E84 and CAN/ULC-S102.2 25/50 compliant.
d) e corrugated stainless steel tubing system has a number of essential hardware and design differences from conventional
gas piping using rigid steel pipe and copper tubing. ese differences are described as follows:
• In many applications, the tubing is sized for individual gas appliance loads and is, therefore, usually small in diameter.
e tubing may also be installed in a parallel fashion from a central distribution manifold rather than a series layout
commonly used for rigid pipe systems.
• Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing is pulled through the structure similar in fashion to electrical wiring and therefore
requires different handling and installation techniques than rigid pipe.
• Rigid termination of the tube ends is required.
• Flexibility and strike plates protect the CSST allowing it to be run in concealed spaces.
SECTION 2: SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS & COMPONENTS / JANUARY 2019
2.1.2 FLASHSHIELD+™ SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
a) e FlashShield+™ Flexible Gas Piping System has been tested in accordance with the American National Standard
for Fuel Gas Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing, ANSI LC1/CSA 6.26. is standard lists performance
requirements for certification of CSST systems for use with all recognized fuel gases, including Natural Gas and Propane.
FlashShield+™ is also tested and listed in accordance with ICC-ES PMG LC1027, listing criteria for protective jacketed
CSST.
• Electrically insulative polymer cover.
• Metallically shielded CSST.
• Shield is electrically continuous through fitting joints (Arc-Trap™).
• System uses corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) made of type 304 alloy, ASTM A240.
• e ANSI LC1 standard rates FlashShield+ for use at pressures up to 25 PSI.
• FlashShield+
™ is listed to the Arc Resistant (AR) jacket tests of ANSI LCI/CSA 6.26 and ICC-ES PMG LC1027
b) e tubing is connected using XR3 REV2-series mechanical brass fittings.
• e self-flaring fitting creates a one step, reusable, metal on metal seal.
• Fitting creates metal shield-to-fitting electrical connectivity (Arc-Trap™).
• e jacket is clamped by the fitting (Jacket-Lock™) thereby minimizing the risk of corrosives contacting the CSST.
• Fittings have standard NPT threads and may be used in combination with all approved fuel gas piping materials
with the pipe threads as the interface. System components such as manifolds, tees and stubouts may be fabricated
from other approved materials to be used with FlashShield+™ flexible gas piping.
c) e metallic laminant jacket is fabricated over the stainless steel tubing to provide a flexible, protective covering.
e jacket is an added feature of the tubing and does not affect the flaring/sealing process.
• Integrated metallic shield between insulative polymer outer cover and semi-conductive poly inner layer.
• e jacket is engineered with thermal and UV resistant material making it suitable for outdoor use.
• e jacket provides a smooth outside surface; this surface greatly aids in pulling the tube through tight building spaces.
• e polymer jacket blend contains flame and smoke additives making it ASTM E84 and CAN/ULC-S102.2 25/50
compliant.
d) e corrugated stainless steel tubing system has a number of essential hardware and design differences from conventional
gas piping using rigid steel pipe and copper tubing. ese differences are described as follows:
• In many applications, the tubing is sized for individual gas appliance loads and is, therefore, usually small in diameter.
e tubing may also be installed in a parallel fashion from a central distribution manifold rather than a series layout
commonly used for rigid pipe systems.
• Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing is pulled through the structure similar in fashion to electrical wiring and therefore
requires different handling and installation techniques than rigid pipe.
• Rigid termination of the tube ends is required.
• Flexibility and strike plates protect the CSST allowing it to be run in concealed spaces.
XR3T-8-121/2" Run x 1/2" Run x 1/2" Tee – Tee Fitting12/Box
XR3T-11-123/4" Run x 3/4" Run x 3/4" Tee – Tee Fitting12/Box
XR3T-16-61" Run x 1" Run x 1" Tee – Tee Fitting6/Box
Tee
XR3T-11-8-8-63/4" Run x 1/2" Run x 1/2" Tee – Tee Fitting6/Box
XR3T-11-11-8-6 3/4" Run x 3/4" Run x 1/2" Tee – Tee Fitting6/Box
Run
XR3T-16-11-8-6 1" Run x 3/4" Run x 1/2" Tee – Tee Fitting6/Box
XR3T-16-11-11-6 1" Run x 3/4" Run x 3/4" Tee – Tee Fitting6/Box
Run
XR3T-16-16-8-61" Run x 1" Run x 1/2" Tee – Tee Fitting 6/Box
XR3T-16-16-11-6 1" Run x 1" Run x 3/4" Tee – Tee Fitting6/Box
SECTION 2: SYSTEM DESCRIPTIONS & COMPONENTS / JANUARY 2019
2.2.3 MANIFOLDS
Part No.DescriptionPkg. Qty.
3-PORTMANCast 3 port – 3/4"F x 3 @ 1/2"F x 1/2"F1 Ea.
3-PORTMAN-1Cast 3 port – 1/2" x 3 @ 1/2"F x 1/2"F1 Ea.
4-PORTMAN-10Cast 4 port – 3/4"F x 4 @ 1/2"F x 1/2"F10/Box
5-PORTMANCast 5 port – 3/4"F x 1 @ 3/4"F x 4 @ 1/2"F x 1/2"F1 Ea.
5-PORTMAN-1Cast 5 port – 1"F x 1 @ 3/4"F x 4 @ 1/2"F x 3/4"F1 Ea.
5-PORTMAN-2Cast 5 port – 1-1/4"F x 5 @ 3/4"F x 1"F1 Ea.
Cast Manifolds
5-PORTMAN-3Cast 5 port – 1-1/4"F x 5 @ 1/2"F x 1"F1 Ea.
4-PORTMAN-2Cast 4 port – 1-1/2"F x 4 @ 3/4"F x 1-1/2"F1 Ea.
4-PORTMAN-3Cast 4 port – 2"F x 4 @ 1"F x 1-1/2"F1 Ea.
APPLICATION
• Provides central distribution point for individual runs to each appliance.
MATERIAL / SPECIFICATIONS:
• Coated 4 Port – Welded IPS Schedule 40 pipe.
• Cast 3, 4, and 5 Port – ASTM A47 32510 Malleable Iron.
2.2.4 MODULAR STUB SYSTEM
Part No.DescriptionPkg. Qty.
XR3-APSTUB-8-101/2"M x 1/2"M x 1-1/2" Stub length with 1/2" female fitting10/Box
XR3-L-APSTUB-8-101/2"M x 1/2"M x 2-1/4" Stub length with 1/2" female fitting10/Box
XR3-Appliance
Stub-Outs
XR3-APSTUB-11-101/2"M x 1/2"M x 1-1/2" Stub length with 3/4" female fitting10/Box
XR3-L-APSTUB-11-101/2"M x 1/2"M x 2-1/4" Stub length with 3/4" female fitting10/Box
XR3-APSTUB-11-11-103/4"M x 3/4"M x 1-1/2" Stub length with 3/4" female fitting10/Box
XR3-L-APSTB-11-11-103/4"M x 3/4"M x 2-1/4" Stub length with 3/4" female fitting10/Box
MULTI-PORT MANIFOLDS
MODULAR STUB SYSTEM
1/2X6STUB-101/2"M x 6"L Straight Stub10/Box
1/2X12STUB-101/2"M x 12"L Straight Stub 10/Box
3/4X6STUB-103/4"M x 6"L Straight Stub10/Box
Straight Stub-Outs
Optional Brackets
3/4X12STUB-103/4"M x 12"L Straight Stub 10/Box
1X6STUB-101"M x 6"L Straight Stub10/Box
1X12STUB-101"M x 12"L Straight Stub10/Box
1-1/4X6STUB-101-1/4"M x 6"L Straight Stub10/Box
1-1/4X12STUB-101-1/4"M x 12"L Straight Stub10/Box
1-1/2X6STUB-101-1/2"M x 6"L Straight Stub10/Box
1-1/2X12STUB-101-1/2"M x 12"L Straight Stub10/Box
2X6STUB-102"M x 6"L Straight Stub10/Box
2X12STUB-102"M x 12"L Straight Stub10/Box
Angle Stub-Out
ANGLE-STUB-01-101/2"M x 4-1/2"L x 72.5° Angle Stub10/Box
STUB-BRACEStub Bracket (optional) – Fits All1 Ea.
DBLSTUB-1-103/4" Inlet x 1/2" & 3/4" Outlet10/Box
DECKSTUB-1/2x3-101/2" x 3" Bracket Stub-Out10/Box
APPLICATION
• All Stubs create a fixed point “stub-out” on a wall or floor surface for meter and appliance attachment.
• Angle Stub-Out mounting plate provided at a 72-1/2° angle to facilitate mounting to angled side of most fireplace inserts.
Deck Stub-Out
MATERIAL / SPECIFICATIONS
• Schedule 40 steel pipe complying with material standard ASTM A-53.
• Exterior plating – Black oxide coating after all threading, forming and welding.
FEATURES AND BENEFITS
• Reduces the number of joints in the system where contractors typically fabricate “stub-outs” from rigid pipe nipples,
elbows and couplings.
Double Stub-Out
• Provides a fixed-point termination for installations where the appliances are not yet installed.
• Creates a more polished look to the overall installation.
• Striker plates used for protection where flexible gas piping passes through structural members and is restricted
from moving to avoid nails, screws and other potential puncture threats.
• Steel conduit is used to provide additional protection where striker plates cannot be easily installed.
*Natural gas, 0.60 specific gravity. 1 PSI inlet, 8" w.c. outlet
See FlashShield Design & Installation guide, table 4-7 for further sizing info.
**Vent limiter not available for -7 OPD
is section is intended to help in the design and sizing of FlashShield™ CSST fuel gas piping systems. e form -printed
on the previous page is to aid in keeping track of the system requirements as well as organizing the system configuration
and sizing numbers. Refer to the Gastite website (www.gastite.com) for additional sizing tools.
e FlashShield™ gas piping system is required to be tested, listed, and installed in accordance with the Standard For Fuel
Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing, ANSI LC1. is standard, among other things, requires the
manufacturer to provide installation instructions including the necessary pipe sizing tables and methods of sizing.
3.1.2 SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
• Determine the local piping restrictions prior to installing the flexible gas piping. Confirm that the local administrative
authority has accepted the use of flexible gas piping. Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing has been accepted by all major
code bodies, but local or state adoption of these codes often lags behind. Check with the local administrative authority or
an authorized FlashShield™ distributor for approval in your area.
• Determine metered (supply) pressure. A gauge can be used to measure the supply pressure or the utility will provide a
supply pressure rating.
• Determine appliance demand. Every appliance will have a manufacture’s nameplate containing BTUH or CFH
requirements as well as minimum and maximum operating pressures.
• Refer to building plans or prepare a sketch showing the location of each appliance. When preparing this sketch keep in
mind the safest, easiest, and shortest distance locations to run the piping. Label the pipe segments and the corresponding
lengths. Take note of fittings needed e.g. tees, manifolds, reducers.
3.1.3 REFERENCE DATA FOR PROPER SYSTEM SIZING
• Determine the total capacity needed for all appliances. CFH or BTUH equivalents for natural gas or propane can be
obtained from the local gas utility or propane supplier. e capacity tables within this guide or other approved CSST
tables should be used to determine pipe sizing for FlashShield™ needed to meet BTUH input load requirements.
Note: “Pressure Drop Curves are expressed in terms of Cubic Feet per Hour
(CFH). To determine the CFH for Natural Gas, divide the BTU load by 1000.
To determine the CFH for Propane, divide the BTU load by 2516.
Refer to Section 7.0 for gases with a specific gravity other than 0.60.
A series layout (Fig 3-1) is the most common
arrangement utilized for rigid pipe systems for low
pressure. ese usually consist of a main run (header)
with tees branching off to each appliance. In a
traditional series system, the service pressure down
stream of the meter is typically less than 1/2 PSI.
B) PARALLEL SYSTEMS
In a parallel system (Fig. 3-2) a main run from the
meter supplies a central distribution manifold. e
appliances are serviced by individual runs from the
manifold. e manifold station is best located close
to the greatest load, typically the boiler or furnace.
C) DUAL PRESSURE SYSTEM
A dual pressure system (Fig. 3-3, 3-4) incorporates
two operating pressures downstream from the meter.
e first pressure, set by the service regulator at the
meter, is usually 2 PSI but can be higher or lower
depending on code restrictions and gas company
policy. is part of the system is sized separately and
ends at the pounds-to-inches regulator inlet. Tables
4-7, 4-8 and 4-9 show maximum loads vs. inlet
pressures to the regulator.
Fi g. 3 -1
Fig . 3-2
Fig. 3-3
e second pressure, at the outlet of the pounds-toinches regulator, is under 1/2 PSI; usually 8"WC
for natural gas and 11"WC for propane regulators
supplied by Gastite®. Generally, a parallel system
requires a higher total footage of smaller diameter
tubing and fewer fittings compared to a series layout.
For those installations in which the energy load demand
is large or the appliances are installed throughout the
structure with long distances from the meter, a multiple
manifold system may be used (Fig. 3-5, 3-6). Elevated
pressure systems are a safe, efficient method of providing
for larger BTUH load demands while maintaining
smaller pipe diameters.
E) COMBINATION STEEL / CSST SYSTEM (HYBRID)
In a hybrid system (Fig. 3-7), corrugated stainless steel
tubing is used in combination with rigid pipe or copper
tubing. In lower pressure systems it is often advantageous
to use both CSST and rigid pipe to help minimize
pressure drops typically encountered on systems with
high loads and/or long runs. FlashShield™ flexible Gas
Piping is approved for use in combination with all
approved fuel gas-piping materials by using approved
pipe threads at the interface.
F) ELEVATED PRESSURE SYSTEM
In a complete elevated pressure system (Fig. 3-8),
corrugated stainless steel tubing is used to deliver
pressures in excess of 1/2 PSI to a pounds-to-inches
regulator positioned directly in front of each appliance.
is is an alternate method of installation used to
minimize pipe size on systems with high loads and/or
long runs. Regulators shall be sized per the largest single
appliance, see Table 4-10.
With respect to gas pipe sizing, the intent of all model codes is to ensure that there is sufficient gas volume and pressure
supplied to the appliance for proper operation. Language from the International Fuel Gas Code clearly illustrates this point.
“Allowable Pressure Drop: e design pressure loss on any piping system under maximum probable flow
conditions, from point of delivery to the inlet connection of the equipment, shall be such that the supply
pressure at the equipment is greater than the minimum pressure required for proper equipment operation.”
e FlashShield™ low-pressure tables are intended for use at a system pressure of 1/2 PSI or less, which encompasses the range
of commonly delivered utility pressures and equipment requirements. To determine which table to use determine the system’s
allowable pressure drop. e appropriate pressure drop can be calculated by subtracting the appliance inlet pressure (typically
5"WC for NG, 10.5"WC for LPG) from the gas source pressure (gas meter for NG, secondary regulator for LPG). Use the
FlashShield™ capacity table labeled with the appropriate allowable pressure drop and gas type. Increasing the available pressure
drop will increase the available BTUHs, thus decreasing pipe sizes. It is advantageous to allow for a larger pressure drop.
e Summation Method of pipe sizing calculates the actual pressure loss through each section of pipe. e sum of all the
losses is subtracted from the starting supply pressure to determine the inlet pressure to each appliance. e appliance inlet
pressure must fall within the manufacturer’s range for proper operation.
Note: Regardless of sizing method employed, the typical NG system should be sized for a minimum appliance inlet
pressure of 5"WC and 10.5"WC for LPG system. Pressures less than the typical minimums may be sufficient for proper
appliance operation but should be reviewed with the manufacturers’ input rating and the local administering authority.
Conversely, some modern higher performance appliances require an inlet pressure greater than the typical minimums.
Check the manufacturers’ input rating before sizing.
3.1.6 SIZING METHODS
Capacity Tables from this Guide (Section 7) or appropriate code approved tables must be used when sizing FlashShield™
CSST. e sizing tables used in this manual include losses for four 90-degree bends, and two end fittings. Tubing runs with
larger numbers of bends and/or fittings should be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: L
= 1.3 (N): where “L” is additional length of tubing, and “N” is the number of additional fittings, or 90 degree bends.
FlashShield™’s Longest Run tables and Summation tables are produced from the same fluid flow equations. As such, they
will provide the same results taking into account any rounding of distance or capacity. ese fluid equations come from
data produced by a third party laboratory. e testing was performed on actual FlashShield™ CSST while tables in the code
reflect the most restrictive CSST.
THE LONGEST RUN METHOD:
A modified version of the longest run (commonly used in conventional rigid pipe systems) is presented here and used in
Examples 1, 2 & 3. is method may be used for any pressure as listed in the appropriate Capacity Table.
For sizing each length of pipe, determine the total gas load for all appliances serviced by that section and the maximum
distance over which that particular section delivers gas. e maximum distance includes overall length from the meter to
the furthest appliance serviced by that run. Refer to Section 7 Capacity Tables for the maximum flow capacity of CSST at
the required piping length.
For sizing dual-pressure systems, the piping from the meter to the pounds-to-inches regulator is sized separately from the
piping downstream of the regulator outlet. is procedure is shown in Examples 4 & 5.
Sizing for a Hybrid System (one that includes both rigid pipe and CSST) is accomplished by using the longest run method
to determine the appropriate pipe size for a given load and run length. Each segment of the piping system uses the appropriate sizing table for that particular piping material. is procedure is shown in Examples 6 & 7.
SUMMATION METHOD:
An alternative sizing method is the Summation Method which considers a summation of the pressure losses through
each section of piping. is procedure is utilized for the designer whose requirements are not satisfied by the previously
described methods. e summation method can be used for system pressures and pressure drops other than indicated in
the sizing tables for longest run. is method allows full use of the maximum flow capacity of CSST. In this fashion, a
designer can minimize piping size (or maximize flow capacity) with greater accuracy in more complicated arrangements.
e summation method is shown in Examples 8 & 9.
3.1.7 MODIFYING AN EXISTING SYSTEM
XR3-series fittings transition from CSST to pipe thread (NPT) and may be run in conjunction with all other approved
fuel gas piping (iron pipe, polyethylene tubing, copper tubing, etc.). When adding appliances to an existing system the
installer must verify whether the existing system, upstream of the lines to be added, can support the additional load.
A retrofitted line, even when properly sized, added to a system that can’t support the additional load, can adversely effect
all the other appliances in the system.
When the existing system will not support the additional load several installation options exist. A new trunk line(s) can be
run replacing the under-sized system upstream of the retrofitted appliances. A dedicated trunk line can be run from the gas
source to the new appliance. e system pressure may be elevated, thus increasing the allowable pressure drop, after which
the existing trunk lines may afford sufficiently higher flow capacity to handle the existing and new appliances.
If the piping is visible or the existing run lengths are known, the entire system can be resized using either aforementioned
sizing method (Longest Run or Summation). e system shall be resized with an appropriate sizing table based on the
affordable pressure drop. When the piping is not visible or accessible for measurement, approximated lengths should be
rounded up.
3.2 SIZING PROCEDURES AND EXERCISES
3.2.1 SIZING EXAMPLES
While the following examples show typical applications of the sizing methods they do not address all of the system
configurations in which they can be used. In general, Longest Run and Summation can be used with any pressure or
system configuration (series, parallel, dual-pressure, hybrid, etc.).
e following exercises illustrate various design layouts, pressure drops and sizing methods. To further highlight the
differences in methods and designs, examples 1-8 use the same appliance layout and load.
Figure 3-9 below shows a typical single-family house installation with five (5) appliances. e piping is arranged in series
with a main run branching at the appliances. e utility company’s supply pressure (downstream of the meter) is 6"WC.
e utility company advises that the specific gravity of the gas delivered will be 0.60 and the energy content is 1 CFH =
1000 BTUH. e allowable pressure drop across the system has been determined to be 1.0"WC (supply pressure 6"WC –
appliance requirement 5"WC).
Fig. 3-9
TABLE 3-2
SECTION DESCRIPTIONLOAD DELIVERED BY SECTIONSECTION LENGTHRUN LENGTHTUBE SIZE
Figure 3-10 below shows the same house as Example 1. e piping is arranged in parallel fashion, with individual CSST
appliance runs supplied by a main distribution manifold. e utility company’s supply pressure (downstream of the meter)
is 6"WC. e utility company advises that the specific gravity of the gas delivered will be 0.60 and the energy content is 1
CFH = 1000 BTUH. e allowable pressure drop across the system has been determined to be 1.0"WC (supply pressure
6"WC - appliance requirement 5"WC).
Fi g. 3 -10
TABLE 3-3
Section DescriptionLoad Delivered by SectionSection LengthRun LengthTube Size
Figure 3-11 below shows the same house and piping system as Example 2. e piping is arranged in parallel fashion,
with individual CSST appliance runs supplied by a main distribution manifold. e utility company’s supply pressure
(downstream of the meter) is 12-14"WC. e utility company advises that the specific gravity of the gas delivered will be
0.60 and the energy content is 1 CFH = 1000 BTUH. e allowable pressure drop across the system has been determined
to be 7"WC (supply pressure 12"WC - appliance requirement 5"WC). As there is no 7"WC pressure drop chart available
we must use the next lowest chart: in this case the 6"WC pressure drop chart (Table 7-8).
Fi g. 3-11
TABLE 3-4
SECTION DESCRIPTIONLOAD DELIVERED BY SECTIONSECTION LENGTHRUN LENGTHTUBE SIZE