Changes to how corrugated stainless-steel tubing is installed in gas piping systems are now part of the 2015 model building codes — the National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54) and the International Fuel Gas Code — and should make it easier for contractors to install CSST as gas piping. However, as these codes have not been adopted yet, installation of CSST is still an issue plumbing contractors need to be aware of.
“Code enforcement organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association are constantly improving the standards for proper installation and operation of CSST,” notes Michael Buchanan, director of research and development at Valencia Pipe Co., maker of Home-Flex. “Every year brings more knowledge of what is the best design and installation of CSST and its components. A great deal of the past CSST improvements to the NFPA 54 centered around the bonding of CSST, which is important to prevent a possible electric shock and reduce the risk of damage from a lightning strike.”