Introduction

Choosing the right steel pipe for natural gas or propane pipe installation is very important because the pipe needs to have sufficient safety and high mechanical properties. Whether galvanized pipe can be used in this pipe is a question for beginners. This article will explain whether galvanized pipe can be used in gas pipes.

First, you need to understand what galvanized pipe is. Galvanized pipe contains a layer of zinc coating, so it is generally not recommended to use it in gas pipes because over time, the zinc coating may cause it to fall off and block the regulator or valve of the gas pipe. Therefore, it is not the first steel pipe.

What Are Galvanized Fittings?

Galvanized pipe is generally made of steel or iron and coated with a zinc coating to prevent corrosion. This zinc coating is mostly used for outdoor pipes or water treatment systems because it causes rust in the environment.

However, gas is different from water. Gas is lighter, more volatile, and very sensitive to small debris in the pipe.

Why Galvanized Fittings Are Not Ideal for Gas

Zinc flaking

Over time, the coating inside the galvanized pipe will loosen and peel off. These zinc flakes may block the following parts of the gas pipeline:

• Household appliance burners
• Gas valves
• Pilots
• Regulators

Code restrictions

Many areas have clear regulations prohibiting the use of galvanized pipes for gas pipelines. Authorities such as the International Residential Code and the National Gas Code recommend the use of carbon steel pipes for natural gas pipelines.

Misuse in mixed systems

We do not recommend the use of black iron pipes and galvanized pipes mixed together, as these two materials may cause electrolytic corrosion, especially in some humid environments.

What Type of Fittings Should Be Used for Gas?

The industry standard for gas piping is:

• Black iron pipe: uncoated steel or iron steel pipe.
• Threaded connection: Gas pipes do not require welding, just tighten with threads.
• Yellow Teflon tape or pipe coating: Gas pipe thread sealant.

In addition to carbon steel pipes, stainless steel pipes or PE gas pipes can also be used.

Are There Exceptions?

In some specific environments, galvanized pipes may be allowed for gas pipeline laying.

But be sure to clarify local requirements when using them.

Summary

In most cases, it is not allowed to use galvanized pipes for gas pipeline laying. Because the detachment of the galvanized layer will cause a certain blockage in gas transportation. Generally, ordinary carbon steel pipes or stainless steel pipes are used. Please refer to local regulations for the specific type of steel pipe to be used.