Copper tubing is a beautiful and durable option for oil or fuel lines and connections. Here are a few pointers to consider when working with copper tubing.
To begin with, working with fresh copper tubing is far easier than working with old tubing. This is due to the fact that it is softer. It becomes difficult to bend old tubing without kinking it. Heating old tubing softens it and makes it easier to bend. Tubing benders come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but copper tubing may be bent perfectly by hand with patience and time.
Tubing connections are readily broken, however they can be removed and replaced several times with care. It is advised that special tubing wrenches be used while removing a tubing nut. A broad jawed crescent wrench, rather than an open end wrench or a set of pliers, is adequate and recommended for infrequent use. If a fitting must be removed from a casting, the nut on an inverted flare fitting should be replaced before attempting to remove the connection, or the internal threads will be damaged. One end of the tube fitting was always a pipe thread on all vintage engines and castings. The thread pitches of the various types of fittings were all different. The accompanying figure shows three popular varieties, all of which are for 5/16 tubing and have 1/8 inch pipe thread connectors. External and internal threads of the type fitting depicted in this figure can be restored with tubing thread restorers. The tool, however, has a limited application. The tubing nuts should be begun by hand, with both ends of the tube loose, to avoid broken threads. The nut can be tightened securely using a wrench after numerous threads have been attached.
Leaking connections can be temporarily repaired by removing the nut and tying several strands of string or thread under the flare of a flare type fitting or over the ferrule of a compression fitting, then firmly replacing the nut.
A loop in the tubing is advised for constructing a tubing connection where the fittings must be relatively close together and the tubing is short or where the two ends are directly in line. Take note of the pictures’ examples. This procedure will provide you the flexibility you need to create good connections without kinking your tubing or reducing your flow.
A three-piece fitting consisting of: 1. a female thread nut, 2. a male thread nut, and 3. a male thread nut. Ferrule number two (sleeve). 3. Connector that is straight (available in elbow connection).
A two-piece fitting consisting of: 1. a male thread nut and 2. a female thread nut (tubing must be flared). 2. Connector, straight (available in elbow connection).
A two-piece fitting consisting of: 1. a female thread nut with a long shank; and 2. a female thread nut with a short shank (tubing must be flared). 2. Connector, straight (available in elbow connection).
Tubing fittings come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Only the parts specific to that type of fitting may be used. Almost every one of them has a unique thread pitch. You can utilize any of the three categories shown to match your needs. When it comes to flow rather than pressure, it’s mostly a matter of personal preference. The inverted flare fitting is the most secure of the three, and it can resist greater misuse and pressure than the other two. The flare end of the tube must be flared with a special tool for both the SAE flare and the inverted flare fittings. On both types, a double flare is highly suggested rather than a single flare. The compression fitting has an advantage over other fittings in that it can be connected without the use of any special tools. The ferrule, or sleeve, is simply placed onto the tube’s end, and the nut secures the ferrule in place. The compression type fitting is also available with a neoprene sleeve instead of a brass sleeve for a more flexible connection with the same simplicity. This fitting is likewise extremely pricey, but it gives the tubing more flexibility after installation.
Is it safe to use copper tubing with gasoline?
For over a century, copper tube has been used as a source of energy. Today, dozens of eyewitnesses can testify as to why copper should not be used for fuel or brake lines. For the past 20 years, I’ve had copper lines running from the tank to the firewall, as well as from the pump to the carburetor, with NO PROBLEMS.
Is it true that gasoline corrodes copper?
Because copper is a facilitator for radicalar oxidation processes and increases peroxidation, it now has a substantial impact on the gum content of gasoline. As a result, any metal alloy that comes into touch with gasoline in an engine’s feeding system must be avoided.
What kind of gasoline tubing is used?
Table 1 lists the many varieties of copper tube that can be used in fuel gas distribution systems in the United States, as well as their identification and availability. For many years, Types K and L copper tube (ASTM B 88) and ACR tube (ASTM B 280) with outside diameters up to and including 1 inch have been employed in fuel gas systems. Type L is typically used for interior distribution systems, while Type K is typically utilized for any underground lines. Seamless copper tube Type GAS (ASTM B 837) is routinely used and needed in Canada for gas distribution systems, despite not being widely used in the United States.
Table 2 shows the size of copper tubing used in gas systems. Outside diameter (O.D.) is used to identify tube and fittings in fuel gas systems rather than nominal diameters. In their references and when ordering, designers and installers should be explicit about size designations.
If the gas contains more than 0.3 grains of hydrogen sulfide per 100 standard cubic feet (scf) of gas (0.7 mg/100 L), copper and copper alloy tube (excluding tin-lined copper tube) should not be utilized.
For gas pipes, what type of copper is used?
Types K and L copper tubes, up to and including one-inch outer diameter, can be used in fuel gas distribution systems. For underground lines, both type L and type K are employed.
What is the best fuel line material?
Fuel lines are built of a variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. The majority of fuel lines are reinforced rubber. Fuel lines should be made of this material since it prevents kinking and cracking. Make sure you choose a fuel line that can handle both vapor and liquid fuel. Stainless steel, plastic, steel coated with zinc, and nylon are some of the other materials used in gasoline lines. It is critical to read several reviews and learn how a specific fuel line performed for other users before making a purchase.
Q. What Is The Best Material For Fuel Lines?
The ideal gasoline line material is determined by your requirements. Polytetrafluoroethylene, or PTFE, is the ideal material for gasoline lines. Teflon is a type of plastic that is used to make PTFE fuel lines. This gasoline line material is resilient to degenerative fuel effects that might cause vapor barriers to form. It does, however, have drawbacks, just like everything else. Because it is inelastic, it is prone to kinking. However, if you use a proper bending tool while producing bends and curves, you can avoid this.
Q. Can I Replace Metal Fuel Lines With Rubber?
If your metal gasoline lines have rusted and begun to leak, you should repair them immediately to minimize further damage. Yes, rubber fuel lines can be used in place of metal gasoline lines. Some individuals prefer to repair only the rusty portion of the gasoline line, however it is more prudent to replace the entire fuel line. Rubber components in fuel lines are strengthened and can withstand high pressure from current injection systems. Rubber gasoline lines are also quite sturdy and will last a long time.
Q. Can Fuel Line Be Submerged In Fuel?
The sort of fuel line you wish to submerge in petrol will determine how long it takes. Fuel lines can be submersible or non-submersible. Even when buried in fuel, submersible fuel lines can survive. Non-submersible gasoline lines, on the other hand, are only meant to be used from the inside. As a result, depending on how and where you intend to use the fuel line, always check whether it is submersible or non-submersible before purchasing it.
Q. Can Vinyl Tubing Be Used For Fuel Line?
Vinyl tubing isn’t the ideal fuel line material unless it’s specifically designed for it. Gasoline, ethanol, and other hydrocarbons should not be transported in plain vinyl tubing. After some time, this tubing turns yellow. After conveying fuel, vinyl tubing becomes rigid and brittle. Only use Vinyl Tubing for fuel lines that are specifically designed for the job.
Q. Can Copper Be Used For Fuel Lines?
Another fuel line material available on the market is copper. It is one of the most appealing materials for fuel lines. It establishes a long-term gasoline or oil line and connection. As a result, copper fuel lines are acceptable. However, because new copper gasoline lines are easier to install than old tubing, it is recommended to utilize them instead of old tubing. If you’re working with old copper tubing, heat it to soften it and make it easier to bend. Some copper gasoline lines can be bent nicely with time and patience, but you’ll require bending equipment in your mechanic toolbox if this isn’t the case.
Q. Can You Replace Steel Fuel Lines With Nylon?
Yes, nylon fuel lines can be used in place of steel gasoline lines. Many people prefer nylon gasoline lines because they are more cost-effective. They’re also quite adaptable and simple to set up. Even without bending tools, some nylon fuel line materials may generate elegant bends and curves. These fuel lines are available in various lengths and can be used to replace a single segment or the full fuel line.
Is it possible to use brass pipe for gasoline?
Many households in the northern half of the country will have to turn on their heating systems at the beginning of October. Natural gas is one of the most cost-effective and efficient fuels for a furnace or boiler. With its benefits come questions about safety and obligations for homeowners. It is your role as a home inspector to assist in the detection of flaws that may jeopardize the safety of residents in natural gas-powered homes. We’ll go through some of the fundamentals of gas piping inspection.
The gas supply line, also known as the building line, is the plumbing that runs throughout the house. Individual appliances are served by branch lines. The branch line finishes in a drop line, which is a vertical pipe that drops down from an overhead branch line to the appliance. If it carries gas up to an appliance from a branch line below the appliance, it’s called a riser.
A sediment trap or dirt pocket, commonly referred to as a drip leg, is normally present at the appliance connection point and consists of a nipple and a cap. This pipe extension, which is normally at least 3 inches long, is designed to catch any water or foreign material that may be present in the gas before it enters the appliance. The solids and liquids fall into the pocket, which is just a gravity mechanism.
The homeowner is normally responsible for the pipework downstream of the gas meter. The gas company is normally responsible for the piping upstream of the gas meter, as well as the meter itself.
Steel, copper, and brass are the most popular materials for gas piping. In some cases, galvanized steel, copper, brass, or CSST (Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing) can be used, but copper is prohibited by some utilities. Copper is widely used in different parts of the world. You should be aware of what is considered acceptable in your neighborhood. Black steel piping with malleable iron or steel fittings is common. In other cases, galvanized steel is also used.
Flexible connectors are allowed to be used to connect appliances to gas pipelines. A shut-off valve must be installed at the rigid piping connection. This valve must be located in the same area as the appliance.
Accessible and three or six feet long: The flexible connectors cannot pass through walls, floors, or ceilings, and they cannot be hidden. Except for gas stoves and laundry dryers, the flexible connector length is normally limited to 3 feet. 6 feet is usually allowed for these equipment. Using nipples to splice or join connectors is frequently forbidden. Flexible connectors are only allowed in some jurisdictions for gas stoves, dryers, outdoor barbecues, and other semi-portable equipment. Flexible connectors may be prohibited on gas furnaces, water heaters, space heaters, and other similar appliances. Flexible connectors are more likely to be utilized on all appliances in earthquake-prone areas because they give some protection against gas piping leakage or rupture during an earthquake. To find out what is and isn’t permitted in your area, consult your local gas code.
The use of white thread seal tape (often referred to as Teflon tape) as a connecting compound for steel gas piping is not recommended. Cutting oils on the pipe threads from the manufacturing process may hinder the tape from sealing. Yellow thread seal tape is permitted in some regions. Pipe dope is favored and may be the only option available. You might wish to double-check with the gas company. Inquire about whether any piping installations with thread seal tape of any color should be reported as a defect.
Although certain exceptions exist, most appliances should have a shut-off valve nearby.
The use of gas piping as a grounding mechanism for the electrical service is prohibited by most authorities. In many countries, however, bonding the gas piping to the electrical grounding system is required. This is often accomplished by connecting the gas pipe to the supply water piping (assuming it is grounded) near the water heater. We want to keep the gas piping at zero electrical potential by attaching it to the grounding system to prevent an electrical potential building within it that could lead to arcing, which could ignite gas.
On gas piping, the following issues are common:
- Materials that are not appropriate
- Inadequate assistance
- A shut-off valve is missing.
- Connections that are incorrect
- Above-grade exposure of plastic pipe
- Chimney piping and duct systems
- Tubing made of copper that hasn’t been correctly labeled
All of these issues have the potential to result in gas leaks and explosions.
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Is copper suitable for diesel fuel lines?
The fact that gasoline and diesel control samples in our aging and corrosion investigations never really age is something we’ve noticed at PS for a long time. Gum and discoloration are only produced when metal samples are included in the samples. Refinery stability treatments are one cause, but the fundamental difference is that copper and zinc ions are powerful polymerization catalysts. Because copper tubing, brass fittings, and galvanized piping are prohibited by code, this type of failure does not occur in shore-side fuel storage systems. The following requirements have been cited by standards organizations and OEMs.
ASTM D975 Appendix X2.7.2
Copper and copper-based alloys should be avoided at all costs. Copper can cause mercaptide gels and increase fuel deterioration. Zinc coatings can create gels when exposed to water or organic acids, clogging filters quickly.
British Petroleum
Copper and zinc exposure, ahead of water and soil, are the most detrimental variables in long-term storage, according to British Petroleum. BP claims that:
The following circumstances can hasten the aging process:
- There is water present. Fungus and bacteria thrive in water, producing natural by-products such as organic acids, which make the fuel unstable.
- High-temperature exposure.
- Dust and grime can contain trace elements like copper and zinc, which can destabilize the fuel.
- Composition of the fuel. Some components of diesel fuel naturally deteriorate over time.
We looked into diesel standby generator installation requirements. The gasoline will sit there for months, just like boats that are stored seasonally. We discovered that copper tubing and brass fittings were universally condemned:
Caterpillar
Diesel fuel lines are best served by black iron pipe. Valve and fittings made of steel or cast iron are chosen.
CAUTION: Copper and zinc should not be utilized with diesel fuels, either as plating or as a substantial alloying component. In the presence of sulfur, zinc becomes unstable, especially if moisture is present in the fuel. Chemical action produces a sludge that is particularly detrimental to the engine’s interior components.
Cummins
Piping for diesel fuel. Black iron pipe should be used to make diesel fuel lines. Because cast iron and aluminum pipe and fittings are porous and can leak gasoline, they should not be utilized. Galvanized gasoline lines, fittings, and tanks must not be utilized because the galvanized coating will be attacked by the sulfuric acid formed when the sulfur in the fuel reacts with the condensate in the tank, resulting in debris that can clog fuel pumps and filters.
Copper lines should not be used because fuel polymerizes (thickens) in copper tubing after extended periods of inactivity, clogging fuel injectors. Copper lines are also less durable than black iron, making them more vulnerable to damage.
Use galvanized or copper gasoline lines, fittings, or tanks at all times. Sulfuric acid is formed when condensation in the tank and lines reacts with the sulfur in the diesel fuel. The copper or galvanized pipes or tanks’ molecular structure reacts with the acid, contaminating the fuel.
US Army CERDEC study, 1977
In the past, major field concerns have resulted from galvanized storage tanks, pipelines, and terne-coated vehicle tanks. Zinc has a tendency to build up in spray holes, causing nozzle coking. Fuel acids attack lead (a component of terne plating) and cause soap precipitates. Copper has the potential to catalyze the oxidation of fuels and induce solids deposition. Nonferrous metals and alloys should be avoided in fuel pipes and storage tanks, as well as throughout the complete vehicle fuel system.
When exposed to biodiesel or bugs, ni-terne, which is used to cover the inside of the tank, can peel.
US Department of energy
Certain metals may have an effect on biodiesel by speeding up the oxidation process and resulting in the formation of fuel insolubles. In both B100 and B20, lead, tin, brass, bronze, and zinc considerably increase sediment formation. At any blend level, galvanized metal and terne-coated sheet metal are incompatible with biodiesel.
Conclusion
Should we replace copper and brass with flexible hose, steel, and aluminum in the fuel system? Let’s not rush into things. Metal deactivators in PS suggested additions sequester the problematic ions, rendering them harmless. You are safe if you follow a regular therapy schedule. However, while installing new equipment, think about the materials you use.
What is the composition of gasoline lines?
Fuel line is a petroleum-resistant nitrile tube with a weather-resistant, ozone-resistant, and heat-resistant covering that can be utilized for ethanol-laced fuels as well as diesel fuel. It should not, however, be utilized on systems that produce pressures more than 50 psi, such as coolant systems, oil systems, or fuel-injection systems.
What kind of hoses are suitable for use with fuel?
Nitrile Rubber and PTFE are two materials that are better suited for fuel hose applications.
Nitrile rubber (NBR) is a synthetic rubber that is resistant to oil. Its primary uses include fuel hoses, gaskets, rollers, and other products that require oil resistance. We sell a variety of Nitrile Rubber-based items at Viper. These are the following:
- Nitrile Rubber Fuel Hose with SAE J30 R6 Approval This fuel pipe complies with SVA regulations and can handle a wide range of fuels.
- Hose for filling up the tank
- These hoses include a Nitrile Rubber liner that is resistant to fuel and is ideal for use as a Fuel Filler Hose. High-octane fuels are not compatible with these hoses.
- Braided Stainless Steel Hoses
- Excellent quality stainless steel braided hose with tight double braiding and NBR provides an excellent bend radius and high pressure for oil, fuel, carburetor, water lines, and vacuum.
Hoses lined with PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) can be utilized with a wide range of chemicals, making them an excellent choice for highly corrosive chemical applications and multiproduct applications. In some circumstances, PTFE outperforms all other polymers and rubbers in terms of diffusion resistance, such as the diffusion of motor fuels. We offer PTFE-lined stainless steel braided hose of the highest quality. Because of the pressure rating, it can be used as brake lines, clutch lines, oil lines, and fuel lines.
