[Clough]

Hi, All!

The title is my question. Additionally, other than being black, is there some other quality that makes it a requirement to use it, please?

Thanks!

[hkstroud]

My understanding is that if galvanized pipe is used with gas the galvanizing on the inside of the pipe can flake off and stop up orifices.

[Clough]

Hi, Harold!

Okay, so by being black, does that mean that the pipe isn't galvanized, please?

Thanks!

[massplumber2008]

Hi guys...

I think Harold hit on the major reason why black pipe is used and not galvanized pipe.

Black pipe is used with black malleable fittings. Unlike black cast iron fittings used for heat systems that are brittle and crack easily (handy when working with old heat pipes) the black malleable fittings bend and dent when hit. You can see where that's a great safety feature with gas... :) This would certainly be a major factor as to why black iron pipe was chosen as a standard.

Black pipe is also used because of its durability... again, hard to dent, crack or puncture. Resistant to fire as well/.

Black pipe doesn't corrode or break down easily. When exposed to the elements, however, black pipe needs to be painted to keep it from rusting.

Also, as Harold mentioned, gal;vanized piping can't be used as natural gas has a tendency to break down the coating causing it to flake and fill orifices of gas equipment.

Black pipe is also trusted all the way back to the first delivery of oil across the nation... ;) Seems it simply became a trusted method of installing large fuel lines.

Finally, as I am sure you are aware Clough, the industry seems to be moving away from the black pipe and on to a corrugated steel piping system. I see some advantages, but I also see disadvantages. Only time will tell how things swing with this stuff.

Mark

PS: Yes, black pipe is not galvanized pipe. Galvanized pipe gets a coating of Zinc to protect the pipe from corroding quickly.