jar546
Forum Coordinator
Introduction
The 2021 edition of the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) has introduced an important change in Section 407.2 that impacts the design and installation of piping support systems. This change was driven by the need to modernize the code to reflect the advances in material technology and to address concerns about the limitations and potential drawbacks of using only metal supports for fuel gas piping. The purpose of this article is to explain the rationale behind the change and its implications for industry professionals.The Code Change: Removal of the "Metal" Restriction
Original Text (Before Change):“Piping shall be supported with metal pipe hooks, metal pipe straps, metal bands, metal brackets, metal hangers or building structural components…”Revised Text (After Change):“Piping shall be supported with pipe hooks, pipe straps, bands, brackets, hangers or building structural components…”
The key modification in this section is the removal of the word "metal," which previously restricted the materials that could be used for supporting fuel gas piping. This change allows for a broader range of materials to be used, provided they meet the required standards of strength, quality, and suitability for the size of the piping.
Rationale for the Change
1. Advances in Material Technology:- Over the past century, numerous new materials have been developed that offer strength and durability comparable to, or even exceeding, that of traditional metals. These materials can now be used for pipe supports, offering additional flexibility in design and installation.
- Metal supports, while strong, can be abrasive to piping materials, especially with the natural expansion and contraction that occurs in piping systems. Over time, this abrasiveness can lead to wear and tear on the pipes, potentially causing damage and reducing the lifespan of the system. By allowing the use of non-metallic supports, this risk can be mitigated.
- The revised code still mandates that all supports must be of adequate strength and quality, ensuring that the safety and functionality of the piping system are not compromised. This means that any material used—whether metal or otherwise—must be capable of supporting the pipes effectively without causing undue stress or strain on the connected appliances.
Implications of the Code Change
1. Greater Flexibility in Material Selection:- Designers and installers now have more options when selecting materials for pipe supports. This flexibility can lead to more innovative and efficient designs that better accommodate the specific needs of a given installation.
- By reducing the reliance on metal supports, which can be abrasive, there is the potential to extend the lifespan of the piping system. Non-metallic supports that are less likely to cause wear and tear can contribute to a more durable and long-lasting installation.
- The committee determined that this change would not have a significant impact on the cost of construction. The choice of materials for pipe supports is not expected to increase costs, allowing professionals to choose the best material for the job without financial concerns.
TBCF Summary
The change in Section 407.2 of the International Fuel Gas Code represents a thoughtful update that aligns the code with modern material capabilities while addressing potential issues with metal supports. By removing the restriction on metal-only supports, the code now allows for a wider range of materials to be used, provided they meet the necessary strength and quality requirements. This change offers greater flexibility, potentially improves the durability of piping systems, and does so without increasing construction costs. For industry professionals, this update is a welcome improvement that reflects the evolving landscape of material science and construction practices.
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