LGE Gas Handbook
Content
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
Louisville Gas & Electric Company Customer Gas Piping Handbook
Residential and Commercial Loads Less Than 500,000 BTUH
Fifth Edition Second Revision May 2011
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
PREFACE
PREFACE
Louisville Gas and Electric Company (LG&E) provides retail gas and electric service in a defined service territory in and around the Metro Louisville, Kentucky area. The Customer Gas Piping Handbook is intended to address natural gas service issues within the prescribed service territory. A separate document, “Electric Service Handbook”, details the requirements for electric service.
Customer Gas Piping Handbook
The Customer Gas Piping Handbook prescribes LG&E’s standards with respect to gas service and meter installations pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC). All piping used for gas service lines and meter installations must be installed in accordance with the specifications provided by LG&E and will be subject to inspection and testing by LG&E. In the event that special circumstances prevent compliance with the service line specifications prescribed within this handbook, LG&E will give proper consideration to alternative methods, provided that the above-referenced regulations are not violated and that safety and reliability are not jeopardized. The Customer has the responsibility of notifying LG&E of any changes to the piping, appliances, or building structure that may affect safety or gas system performance. In addition, this handbook includes standards pertaining to Customers’ house piping and appliance installation in the interest of uniform and safe operations. The standards for new house piping and appliance installation are generally applicable for replacement or relocation of existing facilities. By publishing this handbook, LG&E does not assume liability or responsibility for house piping, appliance installation, or appliance operation. LG&E maintains the right to refuse to supply gas to piping or appliances that are installed or operated in a potentially unsafe manner. In addition, LG&E is not responsible for continuing inspection or surveillance of Customers’ house piping, appliances, or appliance operation. LG&E reserves the right to modify the requirements found in this handbook or any of its service policies, procedures and/or standards at any time. It is the responsibility of the Customer to ensure that any reference document is the version currently approved for use by LG&E. It is also the responsibility of the Customer to notify LG&E of any changes to natural gas facilities that may affect the safety or natural gas system performance.
Louisville Gas and Electric Company – Customer Gas Piping Handbook Distribution Operations – Asset Management
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
NATURAL GAS SAFETY
Safety First – Providing Safe Natural Gas Service
The health and safety of LG&E’s Customers and employees and the general public are our highest priorities. LG&E believes strongly in the concept that safety is everyone’s responsibility. LG&E’s employees and contractors will not perform any work in areas considered to be unsafe or install or connect any natural gas facilities that are, in the opinion of our employees or contractors, unsafe or not in compliance with LG&E’s requirements or governing codes and regulations. Both LG&E and Customer-owned natural gas facilities must be planned, designed, built, maintained, and operated in a manner that minimizes the risk of injury and property damage during construction and throughout the life of the facility.
Personal Safety
Using Natural Gas Safely It is important that users know how to safely use natural gas and care for natural gas appliances. One of the first steps to prevent accidents is to ensure that natural gas appliances and equipment have been properly installed, adjusted, vented and inspected. Appliances should be installed, serviced and repaired by professionals. Other safety precautions that should be taken include the following: Follow manufacturers’ instructions for the installation, operation and maintenance of gas equipment and appliances. Never use a kitchen range to heat a room. This action can damage the range and produce dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) gas. In addition, top burners should not be used for space heating; such usage can be a fire hazard. Since burning natural gas produces a high radiant heat, keep flammable materials (e.g., cloth, paper, paints, and solvents) away from appliances. Provide proper ventilation in areas around furnaces, water heaters, dryers, ranges, etc. Have routine maintenance performed on appliances to keep them clean and in proper working order. Keep natural gas kitchen ranges clean. Rinse and dry the burners before reinstalling. Be careful not to damage or change the settings on the range burners’ air shutters or sleeves. Ensure that all vents and chimneys are free from blockage. Clean or change filters on furnaces and dryers regularly. Maintain the gas lines that are located inside and outside the house to prevent leaks. The gas service lines buried from the property line to the house and all house line piping within the house are the responsibility of the property owner. LG&E will periodically survey all outside piping for leaks and will advise you if any maintenance is required on your portion of the service line. LG&E will also inform you of any corrosion that is discovered on any outside piping that is exposed to the weather and advise you to paint the affected area. Contact the Kentucky Dig Safely, also known as “BUD” (Before You Dig), at (800) 752-6007 to determine the location of utility-owned service lines (including LG&E’s natural gas lines) before you begin any yard excavation. This is a free service offered by Kentucky Dig Safely. Do not operate any electrical switches, equipment or appliances or use open flames if you smell a natural gas odor. Leaking natural gas can ignite.
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Teach Natural Gas Safety To Your Family Every family member should know how to find and turn off the natural gas shut-off valve at the meter. This valve should be closed only in the event of a natural gas emergency in your home. If you turn off the shut-off valve, do not turn it on again. Call LG&E at (502) 589-5511 (outside Louisville at (800) 331-7370), and let us re-establish your gas service for you. Teach small children to stay away from the gas range and gas-burning appliances. Do not let children play or climb on the meter piping on the outside of the house; do not allow them to swing from or play with pipes leading to water heaters or ranges. Practice safety drills for getting the family out of the house at night in case of a natural gas emergency or any other emergency such as a fire.
What To Do If You Smell Natural Gas If you smell gas and cannot find the source(s), immediately go to a location where no natural gas odor exists, such as a neighbor’s house, and call LG&E at (502) 589-5511 (outside Louisville at (800) 331-7370). A spark from using a telephone or cellular telephone inside the house could ignite the gas. If the odor is faint, get everyone outside and leave doors and windows open to ventilate the area. A faint odor of gas may mean that a pilot light has gone out and should be re-lit. If the odor is strong, get everyone out of the house immediately. Never use a telephone or cellular telephone, switch a light on or off, or light a match if you smell natural gas. Never look for a natural gas leak with a lighted flame or match. Do not try to re-light a gas furnace, water heater, or range.
Facts About Natural Gas
Natural gas is an abundant, clean burning, energy-efficient fuel. Natural gas is colorless, odorless and tasteless. As a safety precaution, a chemical called Mercaptan is added to natural gas. This chemical provides a distinctive odor that will alert persons to a potential safety hazard. Mercaptan has the smell of rotten eggs. Odors that are sometimes mistaken for natural gas can come from a variety of sources, such as petroleum products (especially gasoline), marsh gas, sewer gas, and industrial gases. Natural gas is not toxic (i.e., poisonous). No health hazards exist from the exposure to natural gas. However, if present in sufficient quantities to displace the oxygen in the air, it can cause drowsiness and eventual suffocation due to lack of oxygen. Natural gas is lighter than air. When released in an open space, natural gas will rise and diffuse rapidly. If confined in a closed space, natural gas will rise to the highest level. The air in the space will be displaced from the top downward. Therefore, to ventilate a room, windows should be open from the top and bottom portions of the room. To burn or explode, natural gas must mix with air in the proper amount (i.e., 4% to 15% natural gas to air) and be ignited at an ignition point of 1,100oF – 1,200oF. This ignition point is reached by pilot lights, flint sparks, matches, sparks from electrical switches and motors, or electrostatic sparks.
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A properly burning natural gas flame will have a crisp blue color. If natural gas is burned without enough air, it may produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas. A person exposed to carbon monoxide may complain of dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue, and other flu-like symptoms. Natural gas should not be confused with liquefied petroleum gas. Liquefied petroleum gas is more commonly called L.P., bottle gas, propane, butane, and various other trade names. It is heavier than air and collects in low places when not confined.
Meter Tampering
Individuals, who tamper with natural gas meters and piping to make it show less consumption, or bypassing the meter entirely, endanger their own lives. They also risk the lives of their family and neighbors. Meter tampering can create a dangerous situation that can lead to serious and sometimes fatal injury from fire or explosion.
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EXCAVATION SAFETY
Call Before You Dig! Call Before You Dig! is the answer to the continuing problem of damage to underground facilities. Kentucky Dig Safely provides a communication link between excavators and operators of underground utilities. Kentucky Dig Safely is a non-profit organization made up of owners and operators of underground facilities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
IN KENTUCKY CALL BEFORE YOU DIG…. IT’S THE LAW
Toll free
1-800-752-6007
or
502-266-5123
in Louisville metro calling area or
www.kydigsafely.org
Please call Kentucky Dig Safely at least two business days and not more than ten business days prior to your planned excavation with the information listed below. There is no cost to the caller! Identity of contractor or excavator: name, address, etc. Dig site location: County, nearest city, inside/outside city limits, street name or highway name, address number, the nearest cross street intersection or other description if address is not available. Digging information: Type of work, depth of dig, location within property or right-of-way, method of excavation. Estimated date and time of excavation.
In turn, Kentucky Dig Safely will contact its member companies for you to have the underground facilities located in the vicinity of your planned excavation. In addition, they will advise you as to what utilities will be notified, and will provide you with a request number for your reference and documentation.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT
Plan your work. Planning is vital for obtaining a successful natural gas project (e.g., service, installation, or repair). It includes, but not limited to, reading and following appropriate sections of the LG&E Customer Gas Piping Handbook, obtaining all necessary permits, deeds and/or easements, and acquiring necessary materials and equipment. If you have questions concerning your project, contact LG&E. Contact information for LG&E is located in Section 1 – General Information under Important Telephone Numbers. Pressure test the house line piping. In accordance with Subsection 5.9.1, house line piping should be pressure tested to detect leaks prior to contacting LG&E for service connection. Note: LG&E will not provide natural gas service to house line piping that is leaking. Make sure that the house line piping is ready. In accordance with Subsection 2.1.8 a. iii., to qualify for natural gas service, the house line piping system must be extended to an operable natural gas burning appliance(s) or to a plugged valve(s) at the proposed appliance(s) locations. In addition, the house line piping should be pressure tested to detect any leaks on the piping system. Avoid damaging the tracer wire. In accordance with Subsection 3.11.1, care must be taken to avoid damage to the tracing wire during placement and compaction of backfill. Use a clamp on the service riser. In accordance with Subsection 3.16.1 b., the service riser must be securely supported using split ring clamps or substantial mounting brackets in accordance with the applicable meter loop drawing. Polyethylene pipe or flexible riser casing must not be relied upon to contribute to the support of the meter setting. Make sure that the meter loop is not installed too low (i.e., service head adapter below grade). In accordance with Drawing Nos. GSC – 30-20-004, GSC – 30-20-005, and GSC – 30-20-006, the meter loop shall be installed such that the bottom of service head adapter is either at a minimum of six inches (6”) or a maximum of twelve inches (12”) above grade. Install a shutoff valve on the house line piping going to a fireplace that is designed to burn wood or other solid fuel. In accordance with Subsection 5.2.3, the shutoff valve shall be located outside of the firebox and accessible in the same room. This valve is not a part of the fireplace. If corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is used, the valve must be installed at the end of the CSST piping so that only steel fittings are used to actually connect the fireplace. In addition, this valve should be installed so that it is accessible at all times, even if it is in the basement. Be present to allow LG&E personnel access to natural gas appliances for the activation of gas service. To activate natural gas service for new service connection, service replacement, houseline repair, etc., LG&E needs access to all gas appliances. It is imperative that the Customer be present to grant access to the premises. Allow adequate time for LG&E to get utility locates. In accordance with the Excavation Safety section, LG&E is required to provide prior notification for planned excavation work. Thus, if LG&E needs to excavate to provide gas service, it will need to wait two full business days for other utility companies to locate and mark their buried utilities with color-coded paint, flags or stakes. Provide a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line for new or replacement service lines. In accordance with Section 3.2.2 a. ii. and 3.2.2 b., Customers are required excavate a 2’ x 4’ hole for new or replacement service lines.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT CHANGES FROM THE FOURTH EDITION
Added a Preface section. Enhanced the natural gas safety information by adding meter tampering information. Added a Common Mistakes Made By Installers section.
Section 1 – General Information
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Added Section 1.3 - Service Rates, Rules and Regulations.
Section 2 – New Service Installations
Revised and enhance new service installation process. Refer to Section 2.1 – Customer/Contractor Steps for New Service Installation. Added Section 2.2 – LG&E Steps. Added Section 2.3 – Service Requirements, Restrictions and Limitations.
Section 3 – Service Line Installations & Replacement
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Clarified Customers’ responsibility for providing a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line for new or replacement service lines. Refer to Section 3.2.2 a. ii. and 3.2.2 b. Add ½” CTS polyethylene pipe as an option when inserting through existing ¾” steel service lines. Refer to Section 3.9.4. Clarified the number of services for a common building on separately deeded parcels. Refer to Section 3.14.3. Enhance information related to the repair or replacement of service line, meter loop or manifold piping. Refer to Section 3.17.
Section 4 – Gas Meter Installations
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Change the diversified operation requirement from 400,000 BTUH to 375,000 BTUH. Refer to Sections 4.1.2, 4.5.1 b. ii and 4.5.1. b. iii.
Section 5 – House Line Installations
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Clarified the shutoff valve requirements for fireplaces. Refer to Section 5.2.3.
Section 6 – Sizing and Capacities of Gas House Line Piping
Added comments for the use of Tables 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3. 2
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Section 7 – Corrosion Prevention
No significant changes.
Section 8 – Gas Burning Equipment Installation and Operation
Reorganized the section to improve readability.
Section 9 – Meter Information
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Revised Section 9.1 - How to Read Your Meter.
Section 10 – Supplemental Information
Add a sample of the Conveyance of Right of Way form.
Section 10 – Service Related Drawings
Revised the following drawings: GCS – 20-20-003 - Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion GCS – 30-10-002 - Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations GCS – 30-10-004 - Acceptable Gas Meter Locations GCS – 30-20-004 - Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line GCS – 30-20-005 - Flexible Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line GCS – 30-20-006 - Service Head Adapter/Straight Pipe Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line GCS – 30-20-205 - Mobile Home Meter Loop GCS – 30-20-206 - Typical Multiple Meter Installation Prefabricated Meter Loops GCS – 30-30-201 - Low Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT GCS – 30-30-202 - Medium Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator GCS – 30-30-203 - Elevated Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator GCS – 80-20-302 - Polyethylene to Steel Transition for Underground House Line
Added the following drawing: GCS – 40-20-003 – 2.5 PSIG Residential Gas Regulator Installation For Gas Pool Heaters/Gas Fired Generators
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
LOUISVILLE GAS & ELECTRIC COMPANY ..................................................................................................................1 CUSTOMER GAS PIPING HANDBOOK .........................................................................................................................1 PREFACE .........................................................................................................................................................................2 PREFACE .........................................................................................................................................................................2 NATURAL GAS SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................................I SAFETY FIRST – PROVIDING SAFE NATURAL GAS SERVICE ................................................................................................. I PERSONAL SAFETY ........................................................................................................................................................... I FACTS ABOUT NATURAL GAS ........................................................................................................................................... II METER TAMPERING......................................................................................................................................................... III EXCAVATION SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................... IV
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT............................................................................................ V SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT CHANGES FROM THE FOURTH EDITION ...................................................................2 SECTION 1 – GENERAL INFORMATION ...............................................................................................................................2 SECTION 2 – NEW SERVICE INSTALLATIONS ......................................................................................................................2 SECTION 3 – SERVICE LINE INSTALLATIONS & REPLACEMENT ............................................................................................2 SECTION 4 – GAS METER INSTALLATIONS .........................................................................................................................2 SECTION 5 – HOUSE LINE INSTALLATIONS .........................................................................................................................2 SECTION 6 – SIZING AND CAPACITIES OF GAS HOUSE LINE PIPING .....................................................................................2 SECTION 7 – CORROSION PREVENTION ............................................................................................................................3 SECTION 8 – GAS BURNING EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND OPERATION ............................................................................3 SECTION 9 – METER INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................................3 SECTION 10 – SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................3 SECTION 10 – SERVICE RELATED DRAWINGS ....................................................................................................................3 IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS ..........................................................................................................................8 LG&E NATURAL GAS EMERGENCIES…(502) 589-5511 .............................................................................................8 GENERAL INFORMATION ..............................................................................................................................................2 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 2.1 2.2 2.3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................................2 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................2 SERVICE RATES, RULES AND REGULATIONS ...........................................................................................................2 SERVICE AREA......................................................................................................................................................3 DEFINITIONS .........................................................................................................................................................4 CUSTOMER/CONTRACTOR STEPS FOR NEW SERVICE INSTALLATION .......................................................................7 LG&E STEPS .....................................................................................................................................................13 SERVICE REQUIREMENTS, RESTRICTIONS AND LIMITATIONS ..................................................................................14 SERVICE LINE LOCATIONS REQUIREMENTS ..........................................................................................................17 SERVICE LINE CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS........................................................................................................17 CLARIFICATION OF SERVICE LINE INSTALLATION OR REPLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS ..............................................18 PRESSURE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE LINES .....................................................................................18 STEEL SERVICE LINE REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................................18 POLYETHYLENE SERVICE LINE REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................................18 SERVICE LINE SIZE .............................................................................................................................................20 SERVICE LINE PROTECTION .................................................................................................................................22 5
NEW SERVICE INSTALLATIONS ...................................................................................................................................7
SERVICE LINE INSTALLATIONS AND REPLACEMENTS .........................................................................................17
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
3.9 INSTALLATION METHODS/REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE LINES ............................................................................. 23 3.10 CASINGS ........................................................................................................................................................ 25 3.11 TRACING WIRE ............................................................................................................................................... 25 3.12 BRANCH CONNECTIONS .................................................................................................................................. 25 3.13 SERVICE LINE INSPECTIONS ............................................................................................................................ 26 3.14 SERVICE LINES PER BUILDING OR PROPERTY .................................................................................................. 26 3.15 JOINING REQUIREMENTS FOR GAS SERVICE LINE PIPING ................................................................................. 26 3.16 SERVICE RISER REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................................... 27 3.17 REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF SERVICE LINE, METER LOOP OR MANIFOLD PIPING ............................................ 28 GAS METER INSTALLATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 31 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.4 5.5 5.7 5.8 5.9 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 STANDARD METER CAPACITY ............................................................................................................................. 31 ACCEPTABLE METER LOCATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 31 METER ACCESSIBILITY ....................................................................................................................................... 32 MULTIPLE METERS ............................................................................................................................................. 32 METER LOOP ASSEMBLIES ................................................................................................................................. 32 METER PROTECTION .......................................................................................................................................... 34 HOUSE LINE CODE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................... 37 VALVE REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................................... 38 PRESSURE REGULATORS ................................................................................................................................... 38 PIPE REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................................................... 38 INSIDE PIPING INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................... 41 HOUSELINE PIPING PROTECTION ........................................................................................................................ 41 HOUSE LINE SUPPORT ....................................................................................................................................... 42 APPLIANCE CONNECTIONS ................................................................................................................................. 43 PRESSURE TEST ................................................................................................................................................ 43 GENERAL........................................................................................................................................................... 45 REFERENCE SOURCES ....................................................................................................................................... 45 PIPE SIZING ....................................................................................................................................................... 45 PIPE SIZING METHOD ......................................................................................................................................... 45 GENERAL CORROSION PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................... 51 COATING REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................................................... 51 ELECTRICAL INSULATION .................................................................................................................................... 53 ANODES ............................................................................................................................................................ 53 CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITY ............................................................................................................................ 57 PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS ................................................................................................................................ 57 CODE COMPLIANCE............................................................................................................................................ 57 INITIAL STARTUP OF APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT .............................................................................................. 57 HOW TO READ YOUR METER .............................................................................................................................. 61 METER OPERABILITY .......................................................................................................................................... 62 LEAK TEST FOR A HOUSE LINE SYSTEM .............................................................................................................. 62 GAS CONSUMPTION TEST................................................................................................................................... 63
HOUSE LINE INSTALLATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 37
CORROSION PREVENTION......................................................................................................................................... 51
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION OF GAS BURNING APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT ..................................... 57
METER INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................................ 61
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................... 65 GAS INSPECTION REQUEST ........................................................................................................................................... 65 CONVEYANCE OF RIGHT OF WAY - SAMPLE .................................................................................................................... 66 SERVICE RELATED DRAWINGS ................................................................................................................................ 69
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IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Emergency Numbers (24 Hours/Day) LG&E Natural Gas Emergencies…(502) 589-5511 Outside Louisville Area .............. (800) 331-7370 LG&E Electric Emergencies .......... (502) 589-3500 Outside Louisville Area .............. (800) 331-7370 Customer Service Call Center Numbers (Monday – Friday) Residential Service Call Center .... (502) 589-1444 (7 a.m. – 7 p.m. ET) Outside Louisville Area (800) 331-7370 TDD (hearing or (502) 627-3616 speech-impaired) Business Service Center ............... (502) 627-3313 (7 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET) Outside Louisville Area (800) 331-7370 TDD (hearing or (502) 627-3616 speech-impaired) For: Other LG&E Phone Numbers To Remember Monday – Friday) (7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. ET) Service Representative (502) 627-3740
For: - Availability of Natural Gas for Connected Loads of 500,000 BTU or Less - New Service Line (and related House Piping) Inspection and Connection Commercial Service Designer....... (502) 364-8275 For: - Availability of Natural Gas For Connected Loads Greater Than 500,000 BTU
Other Important Numbers Kentucky Dig Safely ...................... (502) 266-5123 (also known as “Before You Dig” or “BUD”) Outside Louisville Area .............. (800) 752-6007 All Other LG&E Numbers Not Listed (8 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET) Operator .......................................... (502) 627-2000 Toll Free........................................... (800) 331-7370
Apply for Natural Gas Service Arrange Service Transfers Customer Inquiry & Complaints Bill Corrections / Adjustments Credit / Reconnects / Transferred Balances Budget Billing Billing Inquiry
Service, Installation and Repair Numbers Gas Operations Centers (Monday – Friday) (7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET) (502 Area Code) Auburndale Operations Center ..627-3740 Bardstown Operations Center....348-9243 East Operations Center ...............627-3740 Muldraugh Operations Center ....942-3046 Concerned About Your Energy Bill? Call To Learn About Our Energy Audit Programs Residential Energy Audit ............... (800) 251-7808 Commercial Energy Audit ............. (502) 893-0256
LG&E Is Involved In Your Community Community Relations .................... (502) 627-4793 Economic Development................. (502) 574-5775 Environmental Excellence ............. (502) 627-3821
For Information Concerning: Installation, Repair or Replacement of New or Existing Gas Service Lines or House Line Piping Systems Replacement or Repaired Service Line Inspection and Reconnection Sizing Service Lines or Meters Acceptable Meter Locations Service Lines Under Buildings Homeowner’s Permits 8
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Introduction
The Louisville Gas and Electric Company, referred to herein as "LG&E,” desires to cooperate with all concerned parties to further the proper installation and use of natural gas. To achieve this goal, the Customer Gas Piping Handbook was created to provide information to gas customers and potential gas customers regarding the installation and operation of gas piping and appliances. Gas customer, referred to herein as “Customer,” is used to address the party responsible for meeting the requirements of this handbook. While the Customer’s mechanical contractor, plumber and/or builder will in practice utilize this information the most, the Customer is ultimately responsible for meeting the requirements of this handbook. However, LG&E representatives are available to assist Customers in complying with requirements of this handbook.
1.2
Scope
This handbook provides specifications and construction standards for the installation of service lines and Customer metering facilities. It also provides guidance for the installation of house lines and gas appliances for single-family and multi-unit dwellings with individual meters and for small commercial and industrial customers served with natural gas from LG&E. In addition, it meets or exceeds not only the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC) regulations but also the NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code), Kentucky Uniform Building Code, and other relevant publications. However, the information contained herein does not preempt any of the rules, codes or regulations contained in the aforementioned publications. It is the Customer’s responsibility to notify LG&E of any conflict between this handbook and the requirements of any of the above publications.
1.3
1.3.1
Service Rates, Rules and Regulations
Kentucky Public Service Commission All natural gas service supplied by LG&E is provided in accordance with the applicable rates, rules, and regulations of the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC), http://www.psc.state.ky.us/, and Louisville Gas and Electric Company http://www.lge-ku.com. The administrative rules of the KPSC can be found in the document Kentucky Administrative Regulations Pertaining to the Kentucky Public Service Commission, Title 807, and Chapter 7 – Utilities. This document is available for public inspection at the Commission, on the KPSC Internet site (above), at LG&E’s Customer Service Center at 701 South Ninth Street in Louisville, Kentucky, and also at the LG&E Internet site (above). This document establishes general rules and regulations for all types of public utility service (water, gas, electric, telephone, etc.) that fall under the jurisdiction of KPSC. Specific sections of this document apply to gas service. LG&E’s rates and requirements for natural gas service are documented in Louisville Gas and Electric Company Rates, Terms and Conditions for Furnishing Natural Gas Service. This document sets out specific rates and requirements for natural gas service provided by LG&E within the defined LG&E service territory.
1.3.2
National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI-NFPA 54) NFPA 54 - National Fuel Gas Code covers, in general, the design, alteration, modification, construction, maintenance and testing of utilization (i.e., non-utility) house line piping. The National Fuel Gas Code generally covers all aspects of natural gas piping beyond the outlet of the meter. (National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169.)
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1.3.3
Kentucky Building Code Kentucky Building Code establishes rules that are intended to establish a uniform building code in the State of Kentucky (Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, 1047 US HWY 127 South, Bay 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-7811, web site: http://www.state.ky.us/agencies/cppr/dhbc).
1.4
Service Area
LG&E provides retail gas service in the Louisville metro area and sixteen surrounding counties. The Operations Centers that are responsible for this area are shown below on the system map with the corresponding zip codes serviced by each Operations Center.
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY AUBURNDALE OPERATIONS CENTER 40202, 40203, 40204, 40205 40208, 40210, 40211, 40212 40213, 40215, 40217, 40047 40071, 40109, 40118, 40165 40209, 40214, 40216, 40218 40219, 40221, 40225, 40228 40229, 40258, 40272, 40291
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY EAST OPERATIONS CENTER 40006, 40010, 40011, 40014 40018, 40019, 40023, 40025 40026, 40027, 40031, 40050 40055, 40056, 40057, 40059 40065, 40066, 40067, 40068 40077, 40207, 40220, 40222 40223, 40224, 40241, 40242 40243, 40245, 40299, 40206
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY BARDSTOWN OPERATIONS CENTER BARDSTOWN 40004 BUFFALO 42716 CANMER 42722 CENTER 42214 COX'S CREEK 40013 ELIZABETHTOWN 42701 HARDYVILLE 42746 HODGENVILLE 42748 HORSE CAVE 42749 LEBANON 40033 LORETTO 40037 MAGNOLIA 42757 MANTON 41648 Mt. SHERMAN 42764 NAZARETH 40048 SONORA 42776 SPRINGFIELD 40069
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY MULDRAUGH OPERATIONS CENTER BOSTON 40107 BRANDENBURG 40108 ELIZABETHTOWN 42701 FORT KNOX 40121 LACONIA, IN. 47135 LEBANON JCT. 40150 MULDRAUGH 40155 RADCLIFF 40160 RINEYVILLE 40162 VINE GROVE 40175 WEST POINT 40177
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1.5
1.5.1
Definitions
Appliance (Gas Appliance) – Any device that utilizes natural gas as a fuel or raw material to produce light, heat, power, refrigeration, or air conditioning. Approved Gas Valve – A natural gas valve that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements of applicable federal, state, and local codes and regulations. BTU – British Thermal Unit. A measure of heat energy. One BTU is the quantity of heat that will raise the temperature of one pound of distilled water by one degree Fahrenheit (1oF) at 70 degrees Fahrenheit (70oF). BTUH Input Rating – The heat energy input, in terms of BTU per hour, required to properly operate a gas-burning appliance. The amount of natural gas needed to operate the appliance is determined by the BTU input rating. One standard cubic foot of natural gas will produce slightly over 1,000 BTUs in normal efficient combustion. Cathodically Protected Piping – Underground coated steel piping that has cathodic protection applied to retard corrosion. The cathodic protection can be provided by the use of galvanic anodes, such as magnesium anodes. Company – When used herein, refers to Louisville Gas and Electric Company (LG&E), a wholly owned subsidiary of LG&E and KU Energy LLC. Company’s Service Connection – Piping from LG&E's gas main to a point within one foot of the Customer's property line or easement line, adjacent to the main, for the purpose of supplying gas to the Customer's service line. Corrosion Prevention – Measures taken to prevent corrosion and prolong the life of buried metallic piping, and aboveground piping exposed to weather or a corrosive environment. CSST – Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. Gas house piping systems incorporating corrugated stainless steel tubing and custom designed fittings are for use above ground only. In order to be acceptable under code requirements, each installer must be certified as trained by the agent(s) or manufacturer(s) of system(s) being used and must be trained on all installation requirements of that manufacturer.
1.5.2
1.5.3
1.5.4
1.5.5
1.5.6
1.5.7
1.5.8
1.5.9
1.5.10 CTS – Copper Tube Size. The size convention used to describe the size of polyethylene gas piping in terms of standard copper tubing. The actual outside diameter of CTS-sized tubing is one-eighth inch (0.125") larger than the nominal CTS. 1.5.11 Customer Contribution – The amount of money that the Customer has to contribute to obtain natural gas service. A Customer contribution may be required when a pipeline must be either extended or tapped to provide service to the Customer. 1.5.12 Customer Service Line – Piping installed by the Customer from LG&E's service connection to the inlet side of the gas meter. 1.5.13 Houseline – Piping installed by the Customer from the outlet of the gas meter to all appliance and equipment connections. This definition includes piping installed underground or aboveground beyond the outlet of the meter. 1.5.14 IPS – Iron Pipe Size. The size convention used to describe the size of polyethylene gas pipe in terms of nominal steel pipe of the same outside diameter. 1.5.15 Listed – Material and equipment certified to meet the quality and performance standards specified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or quality assurance organization. 4
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
1.5.16 Low, Elevated, Medium, And High Pressure – LG&E's classifications of operating pressures in the gas mains throughout its gas system are as follows: a. Low Pressure – The system operating pressure is essentially the same as the pressure delivered to each Customer’s meter and house line (i.e., 0.25 PSIG (7 inches Water Column)). b. Elevated Pressure – LG&E’s elevated pressure systems operate at 2.0 PSIG at their sources of gas supply. A pressure regulator is required ahead of each Customer’s meter to maintain a constant standard delivery pressure of 0.25 PSIG (i.e., 4 ounces per square inch or 7 inches Water Column). c. Medium Pressure – LG&E’s medium pressure systems operate at pressures higher than 2.0 PSIG up to 60 PSIG. LG&E has several medium pressure systems operating at different pressures. A pressure regulator is required ahead of each Customer’s meter to maintain a constant delivery pressure that is normally the standard 0.25 PSIG. Higher delivery pressure can be delivered to the Customer if necessary, limited by the characteristics and operating restraints for the particular medium pressure system. d. High Pressure – LG&E’s designation for high pressure includes any gas transmission system or distribution system that is subject to operation at over 60 PSIG. A pressure regulator is required ahead of each Customer’s meter to maintain a constant delivery pressure that may be the standard 0.25 PSIG or higher if necessary. 1.5.17 Main – Gas system piping located in a public highway, street, alley, or private easement that is used to distribute gas. 1.5.18 Meter Loop – Piping provided by the Customer to accommodate the installation of the gas meter(s). 1.5.19 PSIG – Pounds per Square Inch Gauge. A standard unit of measurement for describing the pressure of gas or liquid. 1.5.20 SDR – Standard Dimensional Ratio. A numerical term used to describe the wall thickness of polyethylene pipe. SDR is derived by dividing the actual outside diameter of the pipe by the wall thickness and is an indication of the strength of the pipe. 1.5.21 Service Head Adapter – A transition fitting that adapts polyethylene gas pipe to steel pipe, in a manner in which the polyethylene pipe is shielded against damage from physical force and solar radiation, with all pressure containing metallic components located above ground. 1.5.22 Standard Delivery Pressure – The gas pressure normally delivered to residential and small commercial Customers, which is approximately four ounces (4 oz) per square inch, seven inches (7”) of Water Column, or 0.25 PSIG. 1.5.23 Tamperproof Gas Valve – A gas valve in which the core cannot be easily removed, either accidentally or intentionally, with ordinary hand tools. 1.5.24 Total Connected Load – The total heat input in BTUH for all gas burning appliances and equipment installed. 1.5.25 W.C. – Water column pressure. A standard unit of measurement for describing the pressure that is expressed in terms of a water depth exerting an equivalent force. Typical gas pressure delivered to Customer's house piping is seven inches (7") W.C., which is approximately 0.25 PSIG. The loss in gas pressure that results from gas flowing through a piping system is generally expressed in inches of W.C. drop.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NEW SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
2.1 Customer/Contractor Steps for New Service Installation
The steps involved to complete the new service process are listed below. These steps cover all Customer/contractor responsibilities from confirming gas service to requesting meter installation and/or turn-on. In addition, a brief summary of the work that LG&E will perform is also provided. Note: These steps in the new service process are applicable to connected loads that are 500,000 BTUH or less and may be performed concurrently.
QUICK STEPS
To Complete The New Service Process, A Customer Must: 2.1.1 Confirm the availability of natural gas. In addition, the availability of the required pressure and/or capacity should be verified. Note: High BTUH rating appliances, such as generators, “instant” hot water heaters, etc., may require pressures that are above LG&E’s normal delivery pressure of 4 oz. (i.e., 0.25 PSIG) and/or capacities of a typical house line or natural gas meter. Confirm any Customer contributions for pro-rata mains or main extensions, if applicable. For commercial or industrial Customers, provide customer usage and site data to LG&E’s Account Manager, if applicable. Establish an LG&E service account by contacting either the Residential Service Call Center (for residential Customers) or the Business Service Center (for commercial or industrial Customers). Sign the service contract and pay any amounts due for Customer contributions, if applicable. If a service contract is applicable, no service work can be performed by LG&E before this step is done. Convey to LG&E all necessary easements/rights-of-way, if applicable. Install all required Customer provided facilities (e.g., the customer service line) in accordance with the Customer Gas Piping Handbook. Request connection of the customer service to LG&E’s company service, if applicable. Note: This request is typically made by the installer of the customer service (e.g., plumber).
2.1.2
2.1.3
2.1.4
2.1.5
2.1.6 2.1.7
2.1.8
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
2.1.1
Confirm Availability of Natural Gas and any Customer Contributions a. Connected Loads That Are 500,000 BTUH Or Less i. No Meter Exists a) Determine Availability of Natural Gas and Any Customer Contributions 1) Before installing a new gas service, residential and commercial Customers should contact a LG&E Service Representative to verify the availability of natural gas at the required pressure and capacity, and to determine if any Customer contributions are applicable. A Service Representative may be reached at (502) 627-3740. 2) Installers or Customers will be required to provide the Service Representative with their complete address including the zip code and the lot number (for new construction) and information concerning their gas loads. ii. Meter Exists If installing furnaces, generators, swimming pool heaters, or other gas appliances of a high BTUH rating to an existing gas service, residential and commercial Customers should contact the LG&E Commercial Service Designer to verify that the gas main, service line and meter have sufficient pressure and/or capacity to supply the gas load. The LG&E Commercial Service Designer may be reached at (502) 364-8275. b. Connected Load Greater Than 500,000 BTUH Special provisions apply for total connected loads of more than 500,000 BTUH served by any single meter. For service line and meter installation specifications and requirements, the LG&E Commercial Service Designer should be contacted at (502) 364-8275.
2.1.2
Confirm Customer Contribution a. No Meter Exists i. Customers must contact a LG&E Service Representative to determine if a Customer contribution is applicable. A LG&E Service Representative may be reached at (502) 627-3740. If a Customer contribution is applicable, Customer will be mailed a service contract.
ii.
b. Meter Exists For Customers with existing natural gas meters, no Customer contributions are required. 2.1.3 Provide Load and Site Data a. Residential Residential Customers do not need to provide load or site data. b. Commercial i. No Meter Exists a) Commercial Customers should be prepared to provide the information listed below. This step is not applicable to residential Customers.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Load data information (i.e., BTUs) must be provided on LG&E’s Gas Load Data Submittal Sheet. A copy of the gas data submittal sheet can be found in Section 10, Supplemental Information. Two copies of the site plan b) The completed Gas Load Data Submittal Sheet and the site plan should be sent to the appropriate Operations Center to the attention of “Account Manager.” Refer to Operations Center By Zip Codes in Section 1, General Information, for the Operations Center that is responsible for your geographic area. For Bardstown and Muldraugh Operations Centers, the information should be sent to the Auburndale Operations Center. Account Manager – Auburndale Operations Center Louisville Gas & Electric Company Auburndale Operations Center 6900 Enterprise Drive Louisville, Kentucky 40214 Account Manager – East Operations Center Louisville Gas & Electric Company East Operations Center 10300 Ballardsville Road Louisville, Kentucky 40241 c) Once the information is received, the Customer will receive a service contract. ii. No Meter Exists Commercial Customers who have existing meters do not need to provide load or site data. 2.1.4 Make Request for Service a. The Customer must contact LG&E and make a request for service. LG&E cannot begin the process of arranging for service until the application for service has been completed. i. For residential Customers, the request for service may be made: on-line at www.lge-ku.com by telephone through the Residential Service Call Center. The Residential Service Call Center is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. They may be reached at (502) 589-1444, or toll free at (800) 331-7370 from outside of the Louisville local calling area.
ii.
For commercial Customers, the request for service may be made: on-line at www.lge-ku.com by telephone through the Business Service Center. The Business Service Center is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. They may be reached at (502) 627-3313, or toll free at (800) 331-7370 from outside of the Louisville local calling area.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
b. At the time of the request for service, the Customer should be prepared to provide the information listed below. i. No Meter Exists Requests for service should be made as far in advance of the required date of service as possible to avoid unnecessary delays in receiving service. LG&E requires sufficient time to design, plan and install the necessary natural gas facilities for new services. Additional time will be required if LG&E must extend or enhance facilities to provide service. a) Residential Customers Name(s) on the account Social Security Number(s). If other responsible parties, such as a spouse/roommate, are included on the account, their social security numbers need to be included. Service address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, house number, lot number, zip code, etc.). If the service is for a home and the home will be constructed in a subdivision, subdivision name and lot number will also need to be provided Billing Address (if different from Service Address) Daytime Contact Telephone Number Evening Contact Telephone Number Date Requesting Service Employer Name Employer Street Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, zip code, etc.) Work Telephone Number b) Commercial Customers Request for service should be made as far in advance of the required date of service as possible to avoid unnecessary delays in receiving service. LG&E will require sufficient time to design, plan and install the necessary natural gas facilities for new services. Additional time will be required if LG&E must extend or enhance facilities to provide service. Name of Business as listed with Secretary of State of Kentucky (if incorporated, limited liability or partnership) Service Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, lot number, unit, apartment, suite, zip code, etc.). Federal Tax ID Type of Service (Gas, Electric, etc.) Square Footage of Building Type of Business Name of Requestor Title of Requestor Requestor E-Mail Address (required for on-line submission) Telephone Number of Requestor Telephone Number of Business Mailing Address for Bills (if different than service address)
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Special Notes: If electric service is also required, it will be necessary to request electric service at the same time the request for natural gas service is made. The submission of a request for service constitutes the Customer’s permission for LG&E to conduct a credit history check. For all new commercial accounts, a deposit is required that is equal to 2/12 (two twelfths, or two months) of the projected annual bill. Meter Exists a) Residential Customers Name(s) on the account Social Security Number(s). If other responsible parties, such as a spouse/roommate, are included on the account, their social security numbers need to be included. Service address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, house number, zip code, etc.). Billing Address (if different from Service Address) Daytime Contact Telephone Number Evening Contact Telephone Number Date Requesting Service Employer Name Employer Street Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, zip code, etc.). Work Telephone Number Special Notes: The submission of a request for service constitutes the Customer’s permission for LG&E to conduct a credit history check. b) Commercial Customers Name of Business as listed with Secretary of State of Kentucky (if incorporated, limited liability or partnership) Service Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, lot number, unit, apartment, suite, zip code, etc.). Federal Tax ID Type of Service (Electric, Gas, etc.) Name of Requestor Title of Requestor Requestor E-Mail Address (required for on-line submission) Telephone Number of Requestor Telephone Number of Business Mailing Address for bills (if different than service address) Special Notes: The submission of a request for service constitutes the Customer’s permission for LG&E to conduct a credit history check. For all new commercial accounts, a deposit is required that is equal to 2/12 (two twelfths, or two months) of the projected annual bill.
ii.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
c.
At the time the request for service is made, the Customer will be given an account and/or order number. This information should be retained for the purpose of tracking the progress of the service request. In addition, the Customer will be sent an informational package.
2.1.5
Sign Service Contract a. No Meter Exists Customers who received a service contract because they own a Customer contribution must sign a service contract and pay any amounts noted in the Customer contributions area of the contract. b. Meter Exists Service contract is not required.
2.1.6
Convey to LG&E All Necessary Easements/Rights-of-Way a. No Meter Exists i. For LG&E to place facilities and provide service, the Customer must convey to LG&E all necessary easements/rights-of-way on the Customer‘s property. Any rights-of-way needed from other property owners will be obtained by Customer.
ii.
b. Meter Exists Easements/right-of-ways are not required. 2.1.7 Install Customer Provided Facilities a. No Meter Exists i. Residential and commercial Customers will need to install Customer provided facilities (e.g., service line, meter loop and house line piping). Customers are responsible for any necessary maintenance of these facilities.
ii.
b. Meter Exists i. If the Customer service line, meter loop or house line piping is not adequate because of the installation of a high BTUH rating appliance (e.g., generators, swimming pool heaters, etc.), Customer will need to install the appropriate facility. Customers are responsible for any necessary maintenance of these facilities.
ii. 2.1.8
Request for Meter Installation and/or Turn-On a. To qualify for connection of the Customer service to LG&E’s Company service, the following items must be completed: i. A request for service must be established through either the Residential Service Call Center or Business Service Centers. All Customer-provided facilities must be installed.
ii.
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iii.
The house line system must be extended to an operable natural gas burning appliance(s) or to a plugged valve(s) at the proposed appliance(s) locations. For a service line supplying gas to multiple meters, the inlet side to all proposed meter loops must be completed and the house line from at least one meter must be connected to an operable appliance or to plugged valves at the proposed appliance locations.
iv.
b. To have the Customer service connected to LG&E’s Company service, a written request should be faxed to LG&E at (502) 333-1823. The form for the request is included in Section 10 – Supplemental Information. Note: Installers or Customers will be required to provide the Customer account number for each address.
2.2
2.2.1
LG&E Steps
Request for Service a. No Meter Exists i. After a request for service has been made, LG&E will perform the following: a) LG&E will send out an informational package. b) LG&E will send out a service contract for Customers who own a Customer contribution. For commercial Customers, the service contract will be sent out after the LG&E receives the load and site data. ii. After the signed service contract is received, LG&E will perform the following: a) LG&E will obtain all necessary permits from public entities for the installation of LG&E facilities in public rights-of-way. LG&E will also obtain all work permits required to perform work in public rights-of-way associated with providing service to the Customer. b) LG&E will obtain all necessary easements required from other property owners, if applicable. c) LG&E will install the Company service line. b. Meter Exists i. ii. After a request for service has been made, LG&E will send out an informational package. After the signed service contract is received, LG&E will install the Company service line.
2.2.2
Request Connection of the Customer Service to LG&E’s Company Service a. After a request for meter installation and turn-on has been made, LG&E will perform the following: i. No Meter Exists a) LG&E will visually inspect the Customer service line and meter loop to ensure compliance with applicable material and installation specifications. b) LG&E will pressure test the service line and meter loop for leaks. c) LG&E will visually inspect the house line piping, to the extent accessible, for safe installation. d) LG&E will pressure test the house line piping for leaks. If the connection to the existing house piping system is made prior to LG&E’s inspection and pressure test of the new installation, the entire house line piping system shall be subject to a pressure test prior to reactivation. 13
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
e) LG&E will visually check appliances that are in place for apparent proper installation and venting. To check appliances, LG&E will need access to the premises. f) If the inspections performed by LG&E are satisfactory, the Customer’s service line will be connected to the Company’s service line and the meter will be placed. Gas will not be turned on to a house piping system believed to be unsafe or leaking.
ii.
Meter Exists a) LG&E will pressure test the house line piping for leaks. If the connection to the existing house piping system is made prior to LG&E’s inspection and pressure test of the new installation, the entire house line piping system shall be subject to a pressure test prior to reactivation. b) LG&E will visually check appliances that are in place for apparent proper installation and venting. To check appliances, LG&E will need access to the premises. c) If the inspections performed by LG&E are satisfactory, the gas service will be activated. Gas will not be turned on to a house piping system believed to be unsafe or leaking.
2.3
Service Requirements, Restrictions and Limitations
Certain restrictions and limitations apply for establishing and maintaining natural gas service. Below is a partial list of some of these restrictions and limitations.
2.3.1
Contract Acceptance and Terms a. LG&E has the right to reject, for valid reasons, any application or contract for service. b. Applications for natural gas service are not transferable, and new occupants of the premises are required to make application for service before service is provided. Customers who have been receiving natural gas service must notify LG&E when they wish to discontinue service and are responsible for paying for all natural gas service furnished until the time a request to discontinue service has been made and the final meter reading has occurred. c. LG&E may require a minimum cash deposit or other guarantee to secure payment of bills. Service may be refused or discontinued for failure to pay the required deposit. For more information regarding LG&E’s deposit policy, contact the “Residential Service Call Center.”
2.3.2
Use of Service Restrictions a. Customers are prohibited from using natural gas service for purposes other than those set forth in the Customer's application or contract. b. Natural gas furnished under LG&E's standard application or contract is for the use of the Customer only. No Customer shall resell such energy to any other person, firm, or corporation without the written consent of LG&E and approval of the KPSC.
2.3.3
Refusal or Discontinuance of Service a. In accordance with and subject to the rules and regulations of the KPSC, LG&E retains the right to refuse or discontinue service to an applicant or Customer under certain conditions. LG&E will charge the Customer for disconnections and reconnections of natural gas service resulting from non-payment of bills, unsafe conditions or for violations of the Company’s rules and regulations. Refusal or discontinuance of service with or without notice, and without liability, can occur under various other circumstances. These conditions are set forth in LG&E’s Tariffs filed with the KPSC and the rules and regulations of the commission. 14
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b. Since it is LG&E’s obligation to provide safe and satisfactory service to all Customers, LG&E reserves the right to refuse or to discontinue service without notice if, in the opinion of LG&E, the Customer’s piping, equipment or appliances are unsafe or unsuitable for receiving natural gas service or are harmful to the service of other Customers. LG&E will make a reasonable effort to notify the Customer prior to disconnection and shall inform the Customer of the steps which must be taken to have service restored. 2.3.4 Service and Liability Limitations a. LG&E is not liable for any injury or damage to persons or property resulting from the presence, use or abuse of natural gas on the Customer's premises. LG&E shall be held harmless for any injury or damage to persons or property resulting from defects in Customer piping, equipment, apparatus, or appliances, or resulting from any cause whatsoever other than the negligence of LG&E. b. LG&E will exercise reasonable care and diligence in an endeavor to supply service continuously and without interruption, but does not guarantee continuous service. It is the responsibility of the Customer, when deemed necessary or desirable, to install any equipment necessary to protect the facilities against disruptions in service.
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SERVICE LINE INSTALLATIONS AND REPLACEMENTS
3.1
3.1.1
Service Line Locations Requirements
Location Within Property or Right-of-Way a. Each Customer gas service line must be located within the property being served, or within a recorded easement or common space in which the rights to install, maintain, and operate the service line have been legally granted. b. To the greatest extent practical, a minimum of one foot (1’) horizontal distance should be maintained between the gas service line and the edge of the property line. Note: In this case, the gas service line and the property line are parallel to each other.
3.1.2
Under Buildings a. New or replacement gas service lines shall not be installed under buildings unless unavoidable, in the sole judgment of LG&E, and approved by LG&E. Buildings or other major structures, such as in-ground swimming pools, porches, storage sheds, etc., shall not be constructed over existing service lines unless unavoidable and approved by LG&E. b. If unavoidable, in the sole judgment of LG&E and approved by LG&E, the service line may be installed. However, the service line must be encased in a gas tight conduit. The conduit must be vented to open air outside of the building. The Gas Operations Center in your area must be consulted for specific requirements.
3.2
3.2.1
Service Line Connection Requirements
General LG&E shall not be obligated to make service connections or to extend its gas main in cases where such extensions or connections, in the sole judgment of LG&E, would be infeasible, impractical, or contrary to good operating practice.
3.2.2
Point of Termination a. New Service Lines i. Check with the Gas Operations Center in your area to determine if a Company service connection already exists, or if special requirements exist for the address being served. When a Company service connection already exists, the Customer service line shall be run to at least one foot beyond the property line or easement line at that location. Customer is responsible for a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line regardless of installation method (trench, plow, directional drill, etc).
ii.
iii. When the Company service connection does not exist, the Customer service line shall extend at least one foot beyond the property line or easement line of the right-of-way in which the gas main is located unless otherwise approved or directed by LG&E. The point of termination must allow access for connection of the Company service line to the main. Locations near driveway aprons, large trees, catch basins, manholes, or other structures must be avoided. Refer to Drawing No. GSC 20-10-001, Acceptable Service Lines Locations. iv. When joint trenching construction has been used for installation of the gas mains and Company service lines, the Customer service line may be required to extend to a remote location to meet the Company service connection.
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b. Replacement Service Lines The Customer service line must extend at least one foot (1’) beyond the property line or easement line at the same location as the service line being replaced unless otherwise approved or directed by LG&E. Customer is responsible for a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line regardless of installation method (trench, plow, directional drill, etc). 3.2.3 Utility Clearance For the service connections at the property or easement line, a minimum of three feet (3’) horizontal separation is recommended between gas service lines and other utility service connections. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-10-001, Acceptable Service Line Locations.
3.3
Clarification of Service Line Installation or Replacement Requirements
For clarification of service line installation or replacement requirements, the Gas Operations Center serving your geographic area should be consulted. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers.
3.4
3.4.1
Pressure System Requirements for Service Lines
High Pressure Systems (i.e., Pressure Systems greater than 60 psig) a. Polyethylene pipe may be used for service lines being supplied by high pressure gas mains if a first stage regulator, that reduces the pressure to 60 psig or less, is installed at the property line or easement line. b. Steel pipe must be used for service lines being supplied by high pressure gas mains if a first stage regulator is not installed,
3.4.2
Medium, Elevated or Low Pressure Systems (i.e., Pressure Systems less or equal to 60 psig) All new and replacement service lines being supplied by low, elevated, and medium pressure gas mains shall be constructed with polyethylene (PE) pipe that is approved by LG&E.
3.5
3.5.1
Steel Service Line Requirements
All steel pipe joints shall be welded. All welding must be performed by a qualified welder using qualified welding procedures in accordance with the requirements of API Standard 1104, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX, or 49 CFR Part 192 Appendix C. All buried steel pipe shall be mill coated and cathodically protected. For the specific requirements and specifications for the installation of mill coated steel gas service lines, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers.
3.5.2 3.5.3
3.6
3.6.1
Polyethylene Service Line Requirements
Material Specifications a. All polyethylene pipe used for gas service lines must conform to specification ASTM D2513, "Specifications for Thermoplastic Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing and Fittings.” b. The polyethylene pipe must be marked at intervals not exceeding two feet (2’) showing the manufacturer or trade name, size, wall thickness or SDR number, PE type, batch identification, and ASTM D2513 compliance. 18
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c.
The polyethylene pipe may be grade PE2406 or PE3408 with designation CD, CE, CDC, or CEC. PE2406 grade (medium density) must be yellow.
d. The following sizes are approved for polyethylene (PE) gas service line use: Nominal Standard Polyethylene Pipe Dimensional Size Outside Diameter Wall Thickness Ratio Rating ½ " CTS* 0.625 .090 W.T. SDR 7.0 ½” IPS 0.840" O.D. .090" W.T. SDR 9.3 1" CTS 1.125" O.D .099" to .101" W.T. SDR 11.4 1-1/4" IPS 1.660" O.D. .166" W.T. SDR 10 2" IPS 2.375" O.D. .216" W.T. SDR 11.0 3" IPS 3.500" O.D. .307" W.T. SDR 11.5 4" IPS 4.500" O.D .395" W.T. SDR 11. 6" IPS 6.625" O.D. .576" W.T. SDR 11.5 or 6" IPS 6.625" O.D. .491” W.T. SDR 13.5 * ½” CTS may only be used when inserting through existing ¾” steel service lines, see 3.9.4. e. Pipe types, grades and sizes other than listed above are subject to approval by LG&E prior to installation. Additional types or grades may be subsequently approved as polyethylene pipe technology advances. 3.6.2 Pressure Testing a. All polyethylene service lines shall be pressure tested at 100 psig with air or inert gas as the test medium to prove the structural integrity and absence of leaks. b. To facilitate pressure testing, two inch (2") IPS and smaller polyethylene service lines should be brought above grade and tied to a stake or other object at the property line or easement line. The end should be capped in a watertight manner to prevent entry of rain, dirt, or insects. c. Service lines larger than two inch (2") IPS shall be terminated at the property line or easement line in accordance with the specific requirements stated by the Gas Operations Center in your area.
3.6.3
Bending Radius Sharp bends in polyethylene gas piping should be avoided. For permanent installations, the bending radius should exceed 20 times the outside diameter of the polyethylene pipe as follows: Actual O.D. 0.625 0.840" 1.125" 1.660" 2.375" Minimum Radius 18” 18" 24" 36" 48"
Nominal Size ½” ½” 1" 1-1/4" 2" 3.6.4 CTS IPS CTS IPS IPS
Handling Polyethylene Pipe a. Care must be used at all times when handling and storing polyethylene gas pipe. b. Contact with sharp edges, kinking, and exposure to extreme heat or petroleum solvents must be avoided. c. Pipe with surface cuts or gouges of 10% or more of the wall thickness, pipe that has been kinked, or pipe that has been exposed to extreme heat or petroleum solvents may not be used. 19
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3.7
3.7.1
Service Line Size
Each gas service line must be of sufficient size to meet the maximum usage demand determined by adding the BTUH input of all connected appliances or equipment subject to simultaneous operation. The service line size required is dependent upon the operating pressure of the system to which it is connected, the length, as well as the maximum usage demand. Allowance should be made for future installation of additional appliances if applicable. The correct service line size may be determined from the service line capacity charts in Tables 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3. If any doubt exists concerning the gas main pressure classification for an address being served, or if any uncertainty exists concerning the service line size, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be contacted. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers.
3.7.2
TABLE 3.1 LOW PRESSURE SERVICE LINE CAPACITY (Thousand BTUH based on 0.5” W.C. pressure drop)
LENGTH
NOMINAL POLYETHYLENE PIPE SIZE
Feet 25 30 35 40 45 50 60 70 80 90 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1,000
1” CTS 321 289 264 244 228 215 193 176 163 152 143 111 96 83 67 56 48 42 37 34
1-1/4” IPS 855 770 705 653 610 574 517 473 438 409 385 257 203 177 166 158 151 143 137 130
2” IPS 2,396 2,161 1,980 1,835 1,716 1,616 1,457 1,334 1,236 1,156 1,088 730 578 489 429 386 352 326 304 286
3” IPS 6,721 6,067 5,563 5,160 4,829 4,550 4,105 3,763 3,489 3,264 3,074 2,072 1,643 1,393 1,225 1,103 1,009 934 873 821
4” IPS 13,630 12,310 11,290 10,480 9,811 9,248 8,348 7,656 7,101 6,646 6,263 4,232 3,361 2,853 2,512 2,263 2,072 1,919 1,793 1,688
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TABLE 3.2 ELEVATED PRESSURE SERVICE LINE CAPACITY (Thousand BTUH based on 4” W.C. pressure drop)
LENGTH Feet 25 50 75 100 125 150 200 250 300 350 400 500 600 700 800 1,000 1,200 1,400 1,600 1,800 2,000 1” CTS 1,075 725 575 488 429 387 328 288 259 237 219 192 173 158 146 128 122 117 112 108 105
NOMINAL POLYETHYLENE PIPE SIZE 1-1/4” IPS 2,830 1,916 1,524 1,294 1,140 1,028 872 768 692 633 586 515 464 424 393 345 310 284 262 245 230 2” IPS 7,848 5,331 4,248 3,614 3,187 2,876 2,444 2,154 1,942 1,779 1,649 1,452 1,309 1,198 1,110 977 880 805 745 696 655 3” IPS 21,810 14,860 11,860 10,100 8,919 8,054 6,855 6,048 5,459 5,005 4,642 4,092 3,692 3,383 3,136 2,763 2,491 2,282 2,114 1,977 1,861 4” IPS 43,980 30,010 23,980 20,440 18,060 16,320 13,900 12,270 11,080 10,170 9,433 8,322 7,512 6,887 6,388 5,633 5,081 4,657 4,317 4,038 3,804
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TABLE 3.3 MEDIUM PRESSURE SERVICE LINE CAPACITY (Thousand BTUH based on difference of absolute pressure squared = 100)
LENGTH
NOMINAL POLYETHYLENE PIPE SIZE
Feet 100 150 200 250 300 400 500 600 700 800 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000
½” CTS 353 281 240 212 191 163 144 130 120 111 98 78 67 59 53
½” IPS 1,135 903 768 677 611 519 457 412 377 349 307 243 206 181 163
1” CTS 2,825 2,253 1,918 1,692 1,527 1,299 1,145 1,033 947 878 773 614 521 458 412
1-1/4” IPS 7,382 5,898 5,027 4,440 4,011 3,415 3,014 2,721 2,496 2,315 2,042 1,624 1,380 1,216 1,096
2” IPS 20,330 16,270 13,880 12,270 11,090 9,458 8,355 7,549 6,928 6,431 5,677 4,524 3,850 3,396 3,064
Note: The medium pressure service line capacities shown in Table 3.3 are conservative and may be used without exception on any service supplied from an LG&E medium pressure gas system. In some cases, a greater capacity will result from a higher system operating pressure. If additional capacity is needed to utilize an existing medium pressure service line, or to enable insertion through an existing steel service, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted.
3.8
3.8.1
Service Line Protection
Creek Crossings and Drainage Ditches Service lines crossing creeks or drainage ditches must be adequately protected against damage that may result from erosion or dredging. For creeks and ditches in which water is normally present or flowing, the service line must be encased in a steel pipe or otherwise protected in accordance with a method acceptable and approved by LG&E.
3.8.2
Ends of Steel Casing a. Each point in which pipe enters or leaves a steel casing pipe must be properly prepared and protected from damage resulting from contact with sharp metal edges and from sheering forces from ground settlement. b. The inside of the steel casing must be reamed or filed to remove burrs and to provide a beveled or rounded edge, and a protective insert bushing must be in place during and after the insertion operation. 22
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3.8.3
A rigid plastic sleeve at least 12 inches (12”) long must be centered over the entry or exit point. A split two (2) piece insert shall not be used, and the protective sleeve should be the smallest standard size that will fit over the steel casing pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-004, Detail Insert Protector & Sleeve for Polyethylene Insertion.
3.9
3.9.1
Installation Methods/Requirements for Service Lines
General a. Call Before You Dig (BUD) i. At least two business days prior to starting excavation activities, Kentucky Dig Safely, also known as “BUD,” should be called to locate all underground utilities (electric, gas/oil/steam, water, cable, communication, and sewer) in the area of the proposed excavation. The Louisville telephone number for Kentucky Dig Safely is (502) 266-5123. From outside the Louisville local area, Kentucky Dig Safely can be reached toll free at (800) 752-6007.
ii.
iii. There is no charge to the Customer or contractor for calling Kentucky Dig Safety or for the locating services that are normally provided. b. Utility Clearance To the greatest extent practical, a minimum clearance of one foot (1’) horizontal distance should be maintained between the gas service and underground structures, water service lines, electric service lines, telephone lines, and cable television service lines. However, a minimum of three feet (3’) horizontal clearance is recommended between gas service lines and underground gasoline or fuel oil storage tanks, underground sewer lines, septic tanks, or lateral fields. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 2010-001, Acceptable Service Line Locations. c. Depth of Cover Service lines must have at least 18 inches (18”) of cover, except where prevented by solid or consolidated rock. In case of rock, or other obstructions, service lines shall be as deep as practical, but with not less than 12 inches (12”) of cover. However, if solid rock prevents installation with 12 inches (12”) cover, a minimum of nine inches (9”) will be allowed providing that the service line is installed inside a rigid plastic or steel casing with the top of the casing below the surface of the rock. Refer to Drawing No. GSC 20-20-002, Installation of Gas Service Line in Shallow Rock. 3.9.2 Direct Burial a. Backfill and Trench Bottom Requirements i. Special care must be exercised to assure that all soil in contact with the gas pipe is free from rocks, bricks, nails, building materials, etc., that may damage the pipe surface. If necessary, a sand or sifted soil cushion at least six inches (6”) thick may be required above and below the pipe. Backfill material containing the above-mentioned foreign materials may not be used. As with any underground pipe, backfill shall be carefully replaced in several well compacted layers. Special attention shall be paid to the area around the polyethylene pipe at the meter riser to avoid straining the meter loop brackets and service head adapter if used. If good backfill material is unavailable, it is permissible to encase the polyethylene service line in a rigid plastic or steel pipe of a larger size.
ii.
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iii. The trench bottom for gas service lines installed by direct burial must be smooth and free of abrupt changes in elevation. The soil in the trench bottom must be free of sharp rock or foreign material that may damage the pipe. If rock is encountered, a minimum of six inches (6”) of sand or sifted soil cushion must be placed below the pipe. iv. As an alternative to sand or sifted soil cushion, a steel pipe, PVC pipe, or other rigid plastic pipe may be installed on the ditch bottom to use as a protective sleeve for insertion. b. Utility Clearance If a gas service line is installed in the same ditch with other utilities or underground facilities, a minimum of one foot (1’) horizontal clearance shall be maintained and the gas service line must be supported on well compacted soil. If conditions or situations prevent meeting these requirements, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted. The requirements of this article do not preclude participation in joint trenching projects. However, a detailed plan must be submitted to LG&E for approval prior to the installation. 3.9.3 Trenchless Technology a. Installation of service lines by plowing, horizontal drilling or other trenchless technology is subject to the approval of LG&E in advance. In order to achieve approval for horizontal drilling, an operating plan must be presented and observation of an installation by a LG&E inspector may be required. b. The plan must address the following items: i. Minimum qualifications of the lead person, performing the installation. Note: The lead person must be on the job site while the work is being performed. Requirement to notify Kentucky Dig Safely at least two business days prior to starting construction, as well as all other reasonable precautions to avoid interference with sewers, drains, and other buried facilities.
ii.
iii. Requirement not to damage other underground utilities. To meet this requirement, test holes should be dug by hand over locations where the proposed service line will cross the existing underground utilities. The test holes should be dug to a depth that equals or exceeds the depth of the proposed service line. iv. Description of soil types and conditions acceptable and unacceptable for the installation method described. v. If polyethylene pipe is used, provision for limiting tensile stress on the polyethylene pipe to a level not damaging to the pipe.
vi. Quality control program to ensure that soil and installation conditions are proper and that proper depth of burial has been attained. vii. Criteria for the inspection of the leading pipe to assure that it had not been damaged by tension or abrasion. Visual inspection and dimensional testing with a cold ring clamp is suggested.
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3.9.4
Insertion a. Existing steel service lines may be renewed by insertion with a smaller size polyethylene service line, provided that the reduced size will carry sufficient capacity to meet present and anticipated future demand in accordance with Tables 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3, and provided that the length, load and pressure restrictions are met. One and a quarter inch (1-1/4") steel pipe (1.66" O.D.) may be inserted with up to one inch (1") CTS (1.125" O.D.) polyethylene pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-003, Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion. One inch (1") steel pipe (1.315" O.D.) may be inserted with up to half inch (1/2") IPS (.840" O.D.) polyethylene pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-003, Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion. Three-quarter inch (3/4”) steel pipe (1.050” O.D.) may be inserted with up to half inch (1/2”) CTS (0.625” O.D.) polyethylene pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-003, Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion.
b. The existing service line must meet minimum depth requirements and may not pass under buildings or go through other prohibited locations.
3.10
Casings
3.10.1 Installation of Casings Plowing or directional boring may be used as alternatives to direct burial for installation of casing.
3.11
Tracing Wire
3.11.1 A tracing wire consisting of stranded AWG 14 or larger insulated copper wire must be installed with each polyethylene service line from the meter riser to the property or easement line. Contact between the tracing wire and the polyethylene gas pipe is to be avoided. A clearance of three inches (3”) to six inches (6”) should be maintained. Care must be taken to avoid damage to the tracing wire during placement and compaction of backfill. 3.11.2 When inserting polyethylene pipe through an existing steel service, tracing wire must be provided between the service riser and the casing, across each gap in the casing, and from the end of the casing to the property line or easement line. The tracing wire must be electrically attached by brazing, thermite welding, or with good quality electric ground clamps to the casing pipe. Each connection between the tracing wire and casing pipe must be coated with an electrically insulating mastic intended for burial. Brazing or thermite welding must be performed before the polyethylene is inserted. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-005, Attachment of Tracing Wire. 3.11.3 As an option, the tracing wire may be inserted with the polyethylene gas pipe through an existing steel service pipe provided that proper clearance is maintained between the wire and polyethylene pipe before and after they exit the casing pipe. 3.11.4 When installing a PVC or other plastic casing pipe by trenching, plowing, or directional boring, the tracing wire must be installed outside of the casing and may be taped or otherwise secured to the outside of the casing at intervals as necessary to facilitate installation.
3.12
Branch Connections
No tees or branch connections are allowed in Customer service lines below grade. If more than one gas meter is required, all tees shall be above grade and all meters and service line interconnections shall be within plain sight at a common location.
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3.13
Service Line Inspections
3.13.1 All service line piping must be installed in accordance with the specifications provided by this handbook and shall be visually inspected and pressure tested by LG&E. 3.13.2 Service lines installed by direct burial must be visually inspected by LG&E before the areas of open excavation may be backfilled. 3.13.3 Service lines installed by trenchless technology (e.g., plowing or boring) must be visually inspected by LG&E before the areas of open excavation (including areas at the property line and the meter assembly) may be backfilled. 3.13.4 Service lines installed by insertion (i.e., in a newly installed PVC sleeve or existing steel service line) must be visually inspected by LG&E before the areas of open excavation (including areas at the property line and the meter assembly) may be backfilled. However, areas of open excavation over the PVC sleeve or existing service line may be backfilled without being inspected by LG&E.
3.14
Service Lines Per Building or Property
3.14.1 Single Family Dwellings Lots that are zoned for single family dwellings shall be entitled to one gas service line per lot. Single family dwellings include homes, manufactured homes, etc. 3.14.2 Separate Buildings on One Parcel a. Each building containing one or more complete residential dwelling or commercial business units located within a single parcel of land may be entitled to one service line. This entitlement does not apply to garages, storage sheds, or other outbuildings that serve as satellites to the principal units served. Individual units that share a common wall or are otherwise connected are to be considered collectively as one building. b. LG&E reserves the right to limit the number of service lines within a single parcel of property when necessary to ensure safe operation or when separate buildings can be properly served from a single meter location. 3.14.3 Common Building on Separately Deeded Parcels Each common building structure that contains units on separately deeded land parcels is generally entitled to a single service line per building. In the event the common building contains nine or more units, a second service line may be provided at LG&E's discretion. The second service will be located at the opposite end of the building as the first service. It is the developer, builder, or customer's responsibility to ensure easements or common ground is established through which the right to install, operate, and maintain the service line is legally granted. 3.14.4 Entitlements and Restrictions The entitlements and restrictions stated above are based upon typical residential and small commercial installations. The number of service lines allowed for large lots, farm land, industrial property, etc., will be determined by the Gas Operations Center in your area based upon the merits of each request.
3.15
Joining Requirements for Gas Service Line Piping
3.15.1 Sections of polyethylene pipe may be joined using mechanical fittings, socket fusion, butt fusion, or electrofusion. a. Mechanical fittings must be approved by LG&E, and the heat fusion of polyethylene pipe must be performed using procedures that have been approved by LG&E. 26
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
b. Heat fusion joints must be made in conformance with the qualified written procedures developed for each particular brand of pipe. Use of proper tools for making heat fusion joints is essential. 3.15.2 Polyethylene and steel pipe may be joined together using mechanical fittings or transition fittings. Mechanical and transition fittings must be approved by LG&E prior to installation. 3.15.3 As much as practical, polyethylene service lines should be run in a single continuous section without joints. For coil pipe, a maximum of one (1) mechanical joint per one hundred feet (100’) of service in addition to the joint at the meter riser is recommended. For straight length pipe (i.e., usually pipe threeinch (3") IPS and larger), to the greatest extent practical, the piping should be installed using full lengths, which are typically forty feet (40’) long. 3.15.4 A minimum of three inches (3”) of slack per one hundred feet (100’) of polyethylene gas service line shall be provided to allow for thermal contraction. 3.15.5 Qualifications to Join Gas Service Line Piping a. Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations require any person that joins gas service line piping to be qualified and to use qualified written procedures. This requirement includes polyethylene to polyethylene as well as polyethylene to steel joints. b. Persons joining sections of polyethylene pipe with mechanical fittings can be qualified by an acceptable agency such as the Kentucky Gas Association or by the manufacturer of a particular fitting. c. Acceptance of qualifications to make heat fusion joints may be obtained through LG&E. For heat fusion qualifications to be accepted by LG&E, one or more sample joints must be made in the presence of an authorized LG&E inspector and must be submitted to the inspector for destructive testing.
d. LG&E will use the guidelines for acceptance or rejection of joints as set forth in the manufacturer's qualified written procedures to determine heat fusion qualifications. e. Homeowners, tenants, or others installing a polyethylene service line not for profit may be eligible to obtain a "homeowner’s" permit. This permit is issued to the person making the mechanical joint or joints in the polyethylene gas pipe following a brief training session. Contact the Gas Operations Center in your area for information regarding homeowner’s permits. This permit is not available to commercial installers.
3.16
Service Riser Requirements
3.16.1 General a. The service line riser should be plumb and meter connections should be level with the correct distance between openings. Use of excessive fittings should be avoided. b. The service riser must be securely supported using split ring clamps or substantial mounting brackets in accordance with the applicable meter loop drawing. Polyethylene pipe or flexible riser casing must not be relied upon to contribute to the support of the meter setting. c. The transition from polyethylene to steel at the service riser must be made using approved fittings in a configuration acceptable to LG&E. See Drawing Nos. GCS 30-20-004, Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene, GCS 30-20-005, Flexible Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line, GCS 30-20-006, Service Head Adapter/ Straight Pipe Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line, and GCS 30-20-007, Anodeless Riser for Large Polyethylene Gas Service Line, for typical meter riser installations. 27
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
3.16.2 Service Riser Location Requirement A minimum of one foot (1’) horizontal distance shall be maintained between the service riser at its point of exit from the ground and any foundation grills or air intakes into a building. See Drawing No. GCS 30-10003, Acceptable Gas Meter Locations. 3.16.3 Service Line Valve Requirements a. Each gas service line valve must be designed and rated for an operating pressure of at least 100 psig and will be subject to the pressure test applied to the piping on which it is installed; it must withstand this test without leaking. b. Each service line valve must be tamperproof and marked with the manufacturer's name or trade name, pressure rating, and the letter "G" to designate acceptability for gas. A tamperproof valve is one in which the core cannot be easily removed, either accidentally or intentionally, with ordinary hand tools. 3.16.4 Atmospheric Corrosion Protection Service riser must be properly coated or otherwise protected from atmospheric corrosion. A good quality paint intended for exterior use on metal, applied to a properly prepared surface, may be used. 3.16.5 Piping Through Concrete, Asphalt or Masonry When a service riser or other gas piping passes through concrete or asphalt paving, a nonmetallic sleeve must be provided to separate the paving from the piping. See Drawing No. GCS 20-20-006, Gas Pipe Sleeving Through Concrete or Masonry.
3.17
Repair or Replacement Of Service Line, Meter Loop or Manifold Piping
3.17.1 Repairs on bare steel services are not permitted. Bare steel services shall be replaced with polyethylene services. 3.17.2 Existing meter loops can be repaired with similar fittings unless the service is also being replaced, in which case the meter loop (and associated manifold) must be reconstructed to the same standards as a new service installation. Regardless of repair, all valves in the meter loop should be replaced with tamperproof, lock-off valves. 3.17.3 For additional information regarding repair or replacement of an existing gas service line or houseline piping system, contact the Gas Operations Center in your geographic area. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers. 3.17.4 Upon completion of a replacement service line or repair to an existing service line, a request for inspection should be made by telephone to the Gas Operations Center in your geographic area.
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GAS METER INSTALLATIONS
4.1
4.1.1
Standard Meter Capacity
To assure proper operation, each gas meter must be the proper size and type for the maximum gas demand and required pressure. The maximum gas demand is determined by adding the BTU input ratings of all gas burning devices that may possibly be operated simultaneously. Furnaces, space heaters, water heaters, boilers, pool heaters, fireplace logs, gas lights, gas clothes dryers and gas generators should be included at their maximum input ratings. Domestic kitchen ranges and outside grills may be considered to be 30,000 and 20,000 BTUH respectively as they rarely are operated at full capacity for extended periods with other appliances. A standard house meter, at a two inch (2”) W.C. differential, will properly serve a gas demand up to 175,000 BTUH (simultaneously operation) or 375,000 BTUH (diversified operation). For greater gas demands, consult the Gas Operations Center in your area to determine the correct meter size.
4.1.2
4.2
4.2.1
Acceptable Meter Locations
General a. Meters shall be located in ventilated spaces readily accessible for examination, reading, replacement, or necessary maintenance. b. Gas meters shall not block normal passage on sidewalks or block ingress or egress through doors or emergency exits. c. Gas meters shall not be placed in locations where they will be exposed to excessive dirt or corrosive materials from manufacturing processes, or beneath condensate drains or roof drains.
d. Outside gas meters shall be located at least 18 inches (18”) from any air intakes into a building, as measured from the final elbow on the service riser (refer to Drawing No. GCS 30-10-003, Acceptable Gas Meter Locations). Air intakes include dryer vents, furnace vents for intake or exhaust, windows that may be opened, ventilating fans, louvers, or foundation grills. e. Outside gas meters shall be located at least 36 inches (36”) from any likely ignition sources, as measured from the final elbow on the service riser (refer to Drawing No. GCS 30-10-004, Acceptable Gas Meter Locations). Likely ignition sources include the electric meter and meter pan, electric circuit breakers, air conditioning units, or other electric devices. f. If the separations listed in Subsection 4.2.1 d. & e. cannot be attained, the regulator vent must be piped to a location that meets the separation requirements listed above. Additional separation may be required for large volume pressure regulators with built-in internal relief devices.
4.2.2
New Service Installation Gas meters shall be located outside.
4.2.3
Existing Installations a. When it is necessary to relocate the gas meter inside a building for a replacement service line, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted for specific installation requirements. b. Replacement Gas meters located inside buildings or under roofs may require additional regulator/relief valve vent piping. The Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted for specific installation requirements.
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4.3
4.3.1
Meter Accessibility
Sufficient space must be available to permit safe working conditions for LG&E personnel performing maintenance to the meter and service regulator. Gas meters should not be installed under decks, in crawl spaces, or in other areas with less than six feet (6’) of headroom. Gas meters should not be enclosed by decks, sunroofs, etc. Maximum height from the floor to the top of any meter should not exceed five feet (5’). However, an exception may be made to clear expected high water elevation in areas prone to flooding.
4.3.2
4.3.3 4.3.4
4.4
4.4.1
Multiple Meters
When two (2) or more meters are connected to the same service line, all meters and interconnections to the service line must be within plain sight at a common location and should be adjacent to the building nearest the gas main. The house line side of each meter loop in a multiple meter setting must be permanently tagged with the identity of the unit served by that meter. Multiple meter installations serving residential and small commercial Customers using standard meters are required to be constructed with prefabricated meter loop assemblies to the greatest extent practical. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-206, Typical Multiple Meter Installation Prefabricated Meter Loops, for a multiple meter installation using prefabricated meter loop assemblies.
4.4.2
4.5
4.5.1
Meter Loop Assemblies
Fabrication a. Prefabricated Meter Loop Assemblies i. Prefabricated meter loop assemblies are required for service to Customers utilizing standard meters up to 250 CFH nominal capacity (i.e., at 0.5” W.C. differential) whenever total demand and character of demand permit. For single meter installations see Drawing Nos. GCS 30-20201, 1” Prefabricated meter Loop, GCS 30-30-201, Low Pressure Meterset Assembly, GCS 3030-202, Medium Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator, and GCS 30-30203, Elevated Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator, for piping details of standard house meters using prefabricated meter assemblies. For maximum gas demand of over 300,000 BTUH served from a low pressure (i.e., 0.25 psig) system, or where a bypass operation must be performed (such as for maintenance to a meter or pressure regulator) without interruption of normal operation, the prefabricated meter loop should not be used. Refer to Section 4.2.2, Field Fabricated Meter Loops.
ii.
b. Field Fabricated Meter Loops Assemblies i. For maximum gas demand of over 300,000 BTUH served from a low pressure (i.e., 0.25 psig) system though a one inch (1”) meter, a prefabricated meter loop shall be used if external bypass is not required. If an external bypass is required, a meter loop may be fabricated from standard pipe and fittings per Drawing No. GCS 30-20-204, 1” Meter Loop Field Fabricated. For any application in which an external bypass is required, and for any application requiring a meter of 375 CFH or more nominal capacity, the meter loop assembly will need to be fabricated using standard pipe and fittings. See Drawings Nos. GCS 30-20-301, 1” Meter Loop with Bypass, and GCS 30-20-302, 1½ Meter Loop with By-pass. Drawings will be furnished for rotary meter installations and other field fabricated meter piping configurations when applicable.
ii.
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iii. Meter loops for meters of 375 CFH or larger capacity in a multiple meter setting will need to be fabricated using standard pipe and fittings. See Drawing No. GCS 30–20-001 for meter piping details for a typical multiple meter installation using standard fittings. The Company will furnish custom drawings when necessary for multiple meter installations. iv. Use of welded service manifolds is encouraged to reduce the number of threaded pipe connections. 4.5.2 Meter Loop Assemblies Material Specifications a. Only steel pipe and steel or malleable iron fittings shall be used for meter loop construction. Street elbows or close nipples shall not be used for construction of meter loops. Bushings shall not be used for size reduction on meter loop or service riser piping; however, they may be used for reduction of two or more sizes for test connections or gauge points. Unions may be used if located downstream of the master valve or manifold valve. b. Threaded pipe must be at least schedule 40 wall thickness. c. All threads on pipe and fittings holding gas pressure must be standard taper in accordance with specification ANSI/ASME B1.20.1, Standard for Pipe Threads, General Purpose.
d. Meter bars, factory made manifolds, or other special installations may be used subject to approval by LG&E. 4.5.3 Meter Loop Valve Requirements a. General i. Master valves are required for installations with two or more meters. If all meters are served from a single manifold, one valve shall be provided ahead of that manifold, preferably at the top of the service riser. See Drawing GCS 30-10-002, Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations, Figures A&B. Master valves for two or more manifolds. If meters are served from more than one manifold, a master valve is required for each manifold. See Drawing GCS 30-10-002, Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations, Figure C.
ii
iii. Bypass valves are required on meter loops one and a half inches (1-1/2”) and larger, and on some field fabricated one inch (1”) meter loops, in order to prevent major inconvenience or interruption of commercial process which would result from the shutting off of gas for meter change operations. Generally, any meter loop that has a meter with a capacity of 425,000 BTU/H or greater at one half inch (½”) water differential will have a bypass. See Drawings No. GCS 3020-301, 1” Meter Loop with By-pass, and GCS 30-20-302, 1½ Meter Loop with By-pass. b. Inlet Side (or Service Side) of Meter Loop i. Each new or reconstructed meter loop shall have an approved tamperproof gas valve of the proper size located on the inlet side of each regulator and meter. Each meter inlet valve or service side bypass valve must have a lock wing or other feature allowing the valve to be locked in the closed position. If served from a low pressure main, elevated pressure main, medium pressure main, or a high pressure main through a primary regulator, each valve must be designed and rated for an operating pressure of at least 100 psig.
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ii.
If served directly from a high pressure main without a primary regulator, typically large commercial or industrial applications, each valve in a location subject to full service line pressure must be rated at least as high as the maximum allowable operating pressure for that main. Required pressure ratings, drawings, and general specifications will be provided by the Commercial Gas Service Designer.
iii. Each approved tamperproof service line valve shall be marked to show the manufacturer’s name or trade mark, the pressure rating with the letter “G” to designate gas, and the letter “T” to designate tamperproof. iv. Master valves, as required under Sections 4.4.3 and 4.4.4, shall meet the above requirements. c. Outlet Side (or House Line Side) of Meter Loop Each valve on the house line side of a meter loop shall have a pressure rating of at least 100 psig, and shall be marked to show the manufacturer’s name or trademark and pressure rating with the letter “G” to designate gas. 4.5.4 Meter Loop Assemblies Support a. The house line or outlet side of the meter loop must be rigidly supported using split ring or equivalent clamps if vertical or horizontal piping exceeds eight inches (8”) before entering the building. b. When supplying gas to a corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) house piping system, the transition must be made at an approved termination fitting securely anchored to the outside wall. A plastic sleeve must surround the tubing if passing through concrete or masonry. A split ring clamp, or equivalent, will be required if the pipe thread size and mounting configuration of the termination fitting is not sufficient to rigidly support the meter. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-002, CSST House Piping. c. Meter loops for manufactured homes shall be rigidly anchored to a free-standing supporting structure either pre-fabricated or fabricated out of steel or other material resistant to deterioration from weather and contact with ground. Pressure treated lumber shall be allowed only for cross-members and not for support posts. If a manufactured home is subject to relocation, the meter loop location must not block its removal or replacement. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-205, Mobile Home Meter Loop, for manufactured home meter loops. If a manufactured home is permanently and rigidly anchored to a masonry foundation, the meter loop may be anchored to the foundation and the piping may be rigidly connected to the manufactured home.
4.5.5
Atmospheric Corrosion Protection Meter loop piping installed outdoors or in other locations that are subject to atmospheric corrosion must be properly coated or otherwise protected from atmospheric corrosion. A good quality paint intended for exterior use on metal, applied to a properly prepared surface, may be used.
4.6
4.6.1
Meter Protection
Barricades Gas meters located within three feet (3’) of driveways or other driving areas shall be barricaded or otherwise protected from vehicular damage. Meters located farther than three feet (3’) from driveways serving commercial or industrial operations require barricades if subject to contact by trucks, forklifts, or other mobile equipment. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 30-20-003, Meter Barricade.
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4.6.2
Meter Relocations a. When an indoor meter is being relocated to an outside location in conjunction with a service line replacement, the new house line shall be extended to the intended point of tie-in with the existing piping and capped. b. The new piping shall be rigidly anchored to allow a pressure test to be applied. c. The final connection may be made by the Customer or plumber at the time LG&E tests and activates the new service line.
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HOUSE LINE INSTALLATIONS
5.1
5.1.1
House Line Code Requirements
This handbook provides code requirements based upon the National Fuel Gas Code and good practices applicable to most residential and small commercial gas house piping installations. However, additional code requirements specific to your situation may exist or there may be exceptions applicable to your situation. Since the National Fuel Gas Code is referenced in the Kentucky Building Code for gas piping in all buildings covered by its jurisdiction, LG&E recommends that installers of gas piping obtain the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas Code and follow its provisions when installing gas house lines. The National Fuel Gas Code is listed by National Fire Prevention Bureau as NFPA-54, and by American National Standards Institute as Z223.1. It may be ordered through National Fire Prevention Bureau by telephone at 1-800-344-3555 or through their internet website at http://nfpa.org. Manufactured Homes a. Manufactured homes and other manufactured housing units that are certified by the manufacturer or authorized dealer as being piped in accordance with federal regulations (i.e., Title 24, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 3280 and 3282) will qualify for gas service without any additional modification. b. Manufactured homes or other manufactured housing units that are not certified by the manufacturer or authorized dealer as being piped in accordance with federal regulations (i.e., Title 24, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 3280 and 3282) will not qualify for gas service unless the gas piping is installed in accordance with the local code requirements applicable to buildings with the same intended usage.
5.1.2
5.1.3
5.1.4
Aboveground Piping Installation Requirements Each aboveground portion of a gas piping system upstream from the equipment shutoff valve shall be electrically continuous to any grounding electrode as defined by NFPA 70, National Electric Code. Gas piping shall not be used as a grounding conductor or electrode.
5.1.5
Underground Piping Requirements a. Underground piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance from any other underground structure to avoid contact therewith, to allow maintenance, and to protect against damage from proximity to other structures. b. Underground piping shall be installed with at least 18 inches (18”) of cover. The cover shall be permitted to be less than 18 inches (18”) but at least 12 inches (12”) if external damage to the pipe is not likely to result. If a minimum of 12 inches (12”) of cover cannot be maintained, the pipe shall be installed in a conduit or otherwise shielded. c. The trench shall be graded so that the pipe has a firm and substantially continuous bearing on the trench bottom. The trench bottom must be free of rocks or foreign materials that may damage plastic pipe or the coating on steel pipe. The trench bottom may be padded with sand or sifted soil if necessary.
d. Backfill material shall be free of rocks or other material that may damage the pipe or coating. Sand or sifted soil may be used to pad the top and sides of the pipe if necessary. 5.1.6 In multi-metered buildings in which gas appliances are in a location remote from the area that they serve (e.g., basement or utility room), an identifying tag should be installed on the piping or valve serving each appliance. 37
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5.1.7
It is not the responsibility of the Louisville Gas and Electric Company to assure compliance with the applicable codes pertaining to installation of house line piping, appliance installation, or appliance operation.
5.2
5.2.1
Valve Requirements
Each house line valve must be designed for natural gas service and be marked with manufacturer's name or trademark and must show visible indication of open or closed position. Each house line valve will be subject to pressure testing with the piping system and must withstand this test without leaking. Every gas outlet shall have a shutoff valve, located within the same room, and within six feet (6’) of the appliance served. Where appliances are connected with flexible connectors or semi-rigid tubing, the valves must be ahead of the appliance connector, on the steel pipe. Gas outlets in fireplaces designed to burn wood or other solid fuel shall have shutoff valves located outside of the firebox and accessible in the same room. Shutoff valves serving decorative gas appliances may be installed in fireplaces if listed for such use (by the manufacturer) and if protected from exposure to excessive heat. An exterior shutoff valve shall be provided for each structure served with gas. Multiple house lines to individual dwelling units must have shutoff valves, accessible to the tenants served, and marked with identification tags. Valves shall not be installed in concealed spaces or in spaces used for air plenums.
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.2.4 5.2.5
5.2.6
5.3
5.3.1
Pressure Regulators
Pressure regulators are required when the house line piping system operates at pressures greater than seven inches (7”) W.C. nominal pressure. Pressure regulators must be vented to the outside. The vent lines must terminate with vent screens facing down to prevent entry of insects or water.
5.3.2
5.4
5.4.1
Pipe Requirements
Steel Pipe Requirements a. Specifications i. ii. iii. iv. v. Steel pipe must comply with a listed specification, typically ASTM A53 or ASTM A106. All threads on pipe and fittings shall be tapered and conform to specification ASME B1.20.1. Pipe joint compound or tape shall be applied to the male threads only. All thread nipples (straight non-tapered threads) shall not be used. Close nipples (tapered threads not separated by a shoulder) and malleable iron bushings are not recommended. If used, malleable iron bushings should be limited to low stress applications with a reduction of two or more nominal pipe sizes.
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b. Joining i. Steel pipe and fittings may be joined by welding, threading, or bolted flanges. Compression fittings using gasket materials which are subject to failure when exposed to heat from a fire shall not be used on inside locations. Welded joints are required on steel piping systems that operate at over 5 psig inside buildings. Valves, pressure controlling devices, final connections to equipment, etc., may be flanged or threaded.
ii.
iii. Welded joints should be made using established procedures and welders qualified under specification API 1104, Standard for Welding Pipelines and Related Facilities; AWS B2.1, Standard for Welding Procedure and Performance Qualification; or the ASME Boiler and Pressure Code, Section IX. c. Prohibited Locations Steel pipe may not be buried beneath buildings, or be in contact with the ground beneath buildings, unless fully must be encased in a gas tight conduit. The Gas Operations Center in your area must be consulted for specific requirements. 5.4.2 Polyethylene (Plastic) Pipe Requirements a. Specifications i. Polyethylene pipe must comply with ASTM D-2513. The same material grades that are acceptable for service line installations are acceptable for house line piping. Polyethylene gas pipe may be used only outside of buildings and beneath the ground. An insulated copper tracing wire shall be installed adjacent to the polyethylene pipe with the ends terminating above ground at each end. Contact between the tracing wire and the polyethylene pipe should be avoided.
ii.
b. Joining i. ii. Joints may be made in polyethylene plastic using approved mechanical fittings or heat fusion. Properly trained and qualified installers should follow qualified written joining procedures.
iii. All transitions to steel pipe must be outside. Transitions may be made using service head adapters or anodeless risers in the same manner as used for service risers, or transition to mill coated and cathodically protected house lines may be made directly below ground. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 80-20-302, Polyethylene to Steel Transition for Underground House Line. c. Prohibited Locations i. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe shall not extend into a building. ii. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe may not be buried beneath buildings, or be in contact with the ground beneath buildings, unless fully must be encased in a gas tight conduit. The Gas Operations Center in your area must be consulted for specific requirements. iii. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe may not be buried beneath buildings, or be in contact with the ground beneath buildings, unless fully encased in a gas tight sleeve of protected steel pipe vented to the outside of the building. iii. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe shall only be installed outside for an underground house line application. 39
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iv. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe shall not be installed inside to serve appliances. 5.4.3 Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) Systems Requirements a. Specifications i. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) systems must be tested, listed, and installed in accordance with ANSI LC-1/CSA 6.26, Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. CSST may be used for installation of new house line systems or for addition to existing systems.
ii.
b. Joining Only qualified installers, trained by authorized agents for the respective brands of CSST system, are allowed to install CSST piping systems. c. Connections Connection of the CSST to the meter outlet piping must be made using a suitable transition fitting supported by the outside building wall, such that the tubing is not exposed. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-002, CSST House Piping, for a typical installation. d. Prohibited Locations CSST may not extend into the fireboxes of fireplaces designed to burn solid fuel. CSST or fittings may not be installed in any manner or locations where they will be subjected to heat from solid fuel fires. 5.4.5 5.4.4 Copper Tubing
a. Specification i. Copper tubing shall comply with standard Type K or L of ASTM B 88, Specifications for Seamless Copper Water Tube, or ASTM B280, Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Field Service. Joints in copper tubing shall be made with fittings approved by the manufacturer for natural gas service or shall be brazed using materials with higher than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit (1,000oF) melting point.
ii.
iii. The transition to copper from the steel or CSST must be made outside. The transition to copper must be preceded by a valve located outside. b. Prohibited Locations i. Copper tubing shall only be installed outside for an underground houseline application (e.g., to serve gas grills, gas lights, or other outside natural gas appliances). ii. Copper tubing shall not be installed inside to serve appliances. iii. Copper tubing shall not be used as a service line.
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5.4
5.4.1
Inside Piping Installation Requirements
General Requirements a. All gas outlets that do not connect to appliances must be capped or plugged gas tight. b. All inside house line piping, not certified under the manufactured housing code, shall to be constructed using standard weight (i.e., schedule 40) plain or galvanized steel pipe, or an approved corrugated stainless steel system.
5.4.2
Concealed Locations a. Unions, tubing fittings, or compression fittings shall not be installed in concealed locations. b. Manifolds, valves, and pressure regulators must be installed in accessible areas and may not be concealed. c. When gas piping that is to be concealed is being installed, elbows, tees, and couplings shall be permitted. However, the number of concealed joints should be kept to a minimum. Unions, tubing fittings, right and left couplings, bushings, swing joints, and compression couplings shall not be used in concealed locations.
d. Gas piping shall not be installed in solid partitions such as concrete (e.g., floors), unless it is laid in channels that permit access to the piping with minimum damage to the building. Where piping in channels could be exposed to excessive moisture or corrosive substances, the piping shall be protected in an appropriate manner. e. Piping that is installed in a chase is not considered to be concealed. 5.4.3 Connections Vertical branch connections from horizontal house lines should be taken from the top or side only. See Drawing No. GCS 80-20-301, Vertical Branch Connection with Drip Leg. 5.4.4 Prohibited Locations Gas piping shall not be run through or inside of air ducts, clothes chutes, elevator shafts, fireplace ash dumps, chimneys, or concealed air plenums. This prohibition does not apply to air spaces used for plenums above suspended ceilings.
5.5
5.5.1
Houseline Piping Protection
Piping Through Concrete, Asphalt or Masonry a. When the house line passes through a concrete or masonry wall, a nonmetallic sleeve must be provided. In addition, the spaces between the pipe, sleeve, and masonry must be sealed to prevent entry of water or gas into the building. See Drawing No. GCS 20-20-006, Gas Pipe Sleeving Through Concrete or Masonry. b. Pipe passing through masonry walls, floors, or ceilings should be encased in a sleeve of plastic pipe. Underground piping, where installed through the outer foundation or basement wall of a building shall be encased in a protective pipe, sealed to prevent entry of gas or water.
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5.5.2
Protection from Physical Damage a. Means shall be provided to prevent excessive stressing of the piping where there is heavy vehicular traffic or soil conditions are unstable and settling of piping or foundation walls could occur. b. Any above grade copper tubing must be protected against physical damage. c. Steel pipe installed outside and aboveground must be protected against damage from anticipated forces.
5.5.3
Corrosion Control a. Steel i. Steel pipe buried beneath the ground must be effectively coated and cathodically protected to prevent corrosion. Fittings and blemishes in the coating must be wrapped with a protective tape or mastic intended for this purpose. The underground portion must be electrically insulated from nonprotected piping using dielectric couplings, dielectric unions, or flanges. Steel pipe installed outside and aboveground must be painted or otherwise coated to prevent atmospheric corrosion.
ii.
b. Copper i. If any part of the copper tubing is buried underground, a dielectric fitting must be used to electrically isolate the copper tubing from the steel or CSST house line piping. If the transition to steel is made underground, the steel pipe must be coated, cathodically protected, and electrically insulated from the houseline piping. For underground copper tubing installations, the vertical portion, from approximately six inches (6”) below grade to the transition fitting above grade, must be encased in a steel pipe or sunlight resistant plastic pipe securely mounted to the building wall. The space between the copper tube and protective sleeve shall be filled with expanding foam, or otherwise sealed at the top, to prevent entry and accumulation of rain water. Insulation must be used, if necessary, to prevent a steel casing pipe from electrically shorting the dielectric transition fitting.
ii.
5.7
5.7.1
House Line Support
Gas house line piping must be adequately supported to prevent stress on fittings, appliance connections or meter connections; and to prevent excessive vibration or movement. The maximum distances between supports are as follows: ½ inch pipe shall not exceed 6 feet, ¾ inch or 1 inch pipe shall not exceed 8 feet. 1-1/4 inch or larger pipe When oriented vertically, at least one support for each floor level When oriented horizontally, the distance between supports shall not exceed 10 feet.
5.7.2
5.7.3
All provisions for supporting and protecting CSST must be followed in accordance with manufacturers’ written procedures.
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5.8
5.8.1
Appliance Connections
Final connections to appliances must be in accordance with local building codes and are subject to variation between communities. Vertical branch connections dropping to appliances should be provided drip legs at the bottom of each drop. The drip leg may be assembled using a tee of the same size as the drop, with the side outlet serving the appliance, and a three inch (3”) or longer nipple with a cap connected into the bottom outlet of the tee. Drip legs should not be used outside or in locations subject to freezing. See Drawing No. GCS 80-20-301, Vertical Branch Connection with Drip Leg. Rigid connection with steel pipe is generally recommended for boilers, furnaces, water heaters and other stationary equipment not subject to movement or excessive vibration. Final connections to movable appliances must be made with approved flexible appliance connectors, preceded by a valve connected to the rigid piping. Flexible appliance connectors must be located entirely within the same room as the appliance and may not pass through walls, floors, or ceilings. The final connection to the appliance must be made outside of the appliance cabinet to rigid pipe.
5.8.2
5.8.3
5.8.4
5.8.5
5.9
5.9.1
Pressure Test
Prior to requesting natural gas service, house line piping systems must be pressure tested to detect the existence of leaks. For the appropriate test pressure and test duration, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area. Natural gas service will not be turned on to a house piping system believed to be unsafe or leaking.
5.9.2
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SIZING OF GAS HOUSE LINE PIPING
6.1 General
The information contained within this section is provided to assist the Customer in determining correct house line pipe sizes to assure satisfactory operation of gas appliances. This section is intended for standard 4 ounces (i.e., seven inch (7") Water Column (W.C.) or 0.25 psig) delivery pressure only. While only one method of determining adequate pipe sizes is illustrated in this Handbook, other engineering methods may be used.
6.2
Reference Sources
For systems operating at higher pressures or for other sizing methods, the NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code, BOCA National Mechanical Code, or other applicable standards should be consulted.
6.3
Pipe Sizing
a. In order to assure adequately sized house piping, LG&E recommends designing gas house line systems to operate with a pressure drop of not more than one half inch (0.5") W.C. from the meter to the last appliance at the maximum demand of all connected appliances subject to simultaneous operation. The possibility of increased gas demand, due to installation of additional appliances or due to replacement of existing appliances with higher BTUH input appliances, should be considered. Standard engineering methods, using industry accepted formulas or tables published in national codes for determining pressure drop in piping systems with natural gas of 1,000 BTU per standard cubic foot heating value and 0.6 specific gravity, may be used. b. Corrugated stainless steel tubing systems must be designed with sufficient tubing size to operate with low pressure gas, unless the availability of greater pressure is confirmed by the Gas Operations Center in your area. Delivery pressure in excess of seven inches (7") W.C. cannot be provided from low or elevated pressure gas distribution systems. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 – Important Telephone Numbers.
6.4
Pipe Sizing Method
The following procedure may be used to determine proper pipe size from the tables herein: Step A: Compile a list of all gas burning devices and their maximum gas consumption based upon the manufacturers’ input BTUH ratings. Convert the input rating in BTUH to CFH (cubic feet of gas per hour) by dividing by 1,000. A list of approximate gas input ratings for typical appliances is located in Table 5.4.2.1 of the NFPA 54-2006 National Fuel Gas Code. Starting with the outlet of the gas meter, make a line diagram of the piping system to each appliance connection, showing lengths in feet of each pipe segment and gas demand in cubic feet per hour for each appliance to be connected. Determine the demand to be supplied by each pipe segment by adding together the demand of each appliance served through that pipe segment. Determine the length from the gas meter to the farthest appliance connection. Select the proper pipe capacity table. Tables 6.1 and 6.2 are provided for schedule 40 metallic pipe with a three-tenths inch (0.3”) and one-half inch (0.5”) W.C. pressure drop, respectively. Table 6.3 is provided for corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) pipe with a one-half inch (0.5”) W.C. pressure drop.
Step B:
Step C:
Step D: Step E:
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The one-half inch (0.5”) W.C. pressure drop table should be used for applications where no additional capacity is expected. The three-tenths inch (0.3”) W.C. pressure drop table should be used for applications where additional capacity is desired to provide for future expansion or installation of higher BTUH appliances. Using the appropriate capacity table, select the column showing the length determined above, or the next greater length if the exact length is not shown. Step F: For each pipe segment, find the pipe size that has a capacity equal to or greater than the demand to be carried for the design length determined above. EXAMPLE – Determining Proper Pipe Sizes For Single Family Dwelling Find the correct pipe sizes to assure proper operation of the gas appliances in a dwelling equipped with a gas burning furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, and kitchen range. There are no plans for adding additional appliances or installing high BTU appliance (e.g., “tankless” hot water heater). Step A – List the appliances with their BTUH input ratings and determine the gas demand in CFH (cubic feet per hour). To determine CFH, divide the BTUH input rating by 1,000. 120,000 BTUH - Forced Air Furnace 45,000 BTUH - Water Heater 35,000 BTUH - Clothes Dryer 60,000 BTUH - Kitchen Range 120 CFH 45 CFH 35 CFH 60 CFH*
Note: *For determining meter capacity and service line size, a value of 30 CFH may be used for domestic kitchen ranges since it is very rare for all burners to be on at full capacity simultaneously. To be consistent with applicable building codes for house piping, the listed BTUH input rating should be used for sizing house piping. Step B – Piping diagram (Not to scale)
Dryer 35 CFH E
10’
A Source (Meter)
25’
B
5’ D
10’
FRange 60 CFH
10’
Furnace 120 CFH
C 46
Water Heater CFH
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Step C - Determine demand supplied by each pipe segment Line A-B, Line B-D, Line B-C, Line D-E, Line D-F, 260 CFH 95 CFH 165 CFH 35 CFH 60 CFH
Step D - Determine the pipe distance from the meter to the farthest appliance The farthest appliance is the kitchen range at a distance of 40 feet. Therefore, use 40 feet for sizing all segments. Step E - Select the Proper Capacity Table Since no future increase in gas capacity is anticipated, Table 6.1 (0.5” W.C. pressure drop table) was used. However, if additional capacity is anticipated, Table 6.2 (0.3” W.C. pressure drop) is recommended. It provides greater reserve capacity for future or high BTU appliances. Step F - Determine minimum size for each segment of pipe Using Table 6.2 and 40 feet for each segment, determine the size of each pipe segment. Line A-B, Line B-D, Line B-C, Line D-E, Line D-F, 260 CFH, 95 CFH, 160 CFH, 35 CFH, 60 CFH, 1" Iron Pipe Size (IPS) 3/4" IPS 3/4" IPS 1/2" IPS* 1/2" IPS*
Note: *Pipe sizes smaller than 1/2" IPS are generally not recommended for permanent house line piping inside buildings.
Table 6.1 – Capacity of Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe, Standard Cubic Feet per Hour
Inlet Pressure: 0.5 psig or Less Pressure Drop: 0.3 Inches Water Column (W.C.) Specific Gravity: 0.60 Nom. Size (In.)
1/4 3/8 ½ ¾ 1 1¼ 1½ 2 2½ 3 4
Equivalent Length of Pipe (Feet)
10 32 72 132 278 520 1,050 1,600 3,050 4,800 8,500 17,500 20 22 49 92 190 350 730 1,100 2,100 3,300 5,900 12,000 30 18 40 73 152 285 590 890 1,650 2,700 4,700 9,700 40 15 34 63 130 245 500 760 1,450 2,300 4,100 8,300 50 14 30 56 115 215 440 670 1,270 2,000 3,600 7,400 60 12 27 50 105 195 400 610 1,150 1,850 3,250 6,800 70 11 25 46 96 180 370 560 1,050 1,700 3,000 6,200 80 11 23 43 90 170 350 530 990 1,600 2,800 5,800 90 10 22 40 84 160 320 490 930 1,500 2,600 5,400 100 9 21 38 79 150 305 460 870 1,400 2,500 5,100 125 8 18 34 72 130 275 410 780 1,250 2,200 4,500 150 8 17 31 64 120 250 380 710 1,130 2,000 4,100 175 7 15 28 59 110 225 350 650 1,050 1,850 3,800 200 6 14 26 55 100 210 320 610 980 1,700 3,500
Note: Table 6.1 should be used for applications where additional capacity is expected. It provides for future expansion or installation of higher BTUH appliances. 47
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Table 6.2 – Capacity of Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe, Standard Cubic Feet per Hour
Inlet Pressure: 0.5 psig or less Pressure Drop: 0.5 Inches Water Column (W.C.) Specific Gravity: 0.60 Equivalent Length of Pipe (Feet)
10 43 95 175 360 680 1,400 2,100 3,950 6,300 11,000 23,000 20 29 65 120 250 465 950 1,460 2,750 4,350 7,700 15,800 30 24 52 97 200 375 770 1,180 2,200 3,520 6,250 12,800 40 20 45 82 170 320 660 990 1,900 3,000 5,300 10,900 50 18 40 73 151 285 580 900 1,680 2,650 4,750 9,700 60 16 36 66 138 260 530 810 1,520 2,400 4,300 8,800 70 15 33 61 125 240 490 750 1,400 2,250 3,900 8,100 80 14 31 57 118 220 460 690 1,300 2,050 3,700 7,500 90 13 29 53 110 205 430 650 1,220 1,950 3,450 7,200 100 12 27 50 103 195 00 620 1,150 1,850 3,250 6,700 125 11 24 44 93 175 360 550 1,020 1,650 2,950 6,000 150 10 22 40 84 160 325 500 950 1,500 2,650 5,500 175 9 20 37 77 145 300 460 850 1,370 2,450 5,000 200 8 19 35 72 135 280 430 800 1,280 2,280 4,600
Nom. Size (In.)
¼ 3/8 ½ ¾ 1 1¼ 1½ 2 2½ 3 4
Note: Table 6.2 should be used for applications where no additional capacity is expected. It does not provide for future expansion or installation of higher BTUH appliances.
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Table 6.3 – Capacity of Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST), Standard Cubic Feet per Hour
Inlet Pressure: 0.5 psig or less Pressure Drop: 0.5 Inches Water Column (W.C.) Specific Gravity: 0.60 Equivalent Length of Pipe (Feet)
5 46 63 115 134 225 270 471 546 895 1,790 4,142 10 32 44 82 95 161 192 330 383 639 1,261 2,934 15 25 35 66 77 132 157 267 310 524 1,027 2,398 20 22 31 58 67 116 137 231 269 456 888 2,078 25 19 27 52 60 104 122 206 240 409 793 1,860 30 18 25 47 55 96 112 188 218 374 723 1,698 40 15 21 41 47 83 97 162 188 325 625 1,472 50 13 19 37 42 75 87 144 168 292 559 1,317 60 12 17 34 38 68 80 131 1153 267 509 1,203 70 11 16 31 36 63 74 121 141 248 471 1,114 80 10 15 29 33 60 69 113 132 232 440 1,042 90 10 14 28 32 57 65 107 125 219 415 983 100 9 13 26 30 54 62 101 118 208 393 933 150 7 10 20 23 42 48 78 91 171 320 762
Tube Size (EHD*)
13 15 18 19 23 25 30 31 37 46 62
Note: Table 6.3 includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: l = 1.3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and is the number of additional fittings and/or bends. Note: *EHD – Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
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CORROSION PREVENTION
7.1
7.1.1
General Corrosion Protection Requirements
Protection for Aboveground Steel Piping All aboveground steel piping, such as service riser or meter loop piping, installed outdoors or indoors in damp locations shall be protected from atmospheric corrosion as required by state and federal pipeline safety regulations.
7.1.2
Protection for Underground Steel Piping All underground (i.e., buried) steel piping, such as service lines, shall be mill coated and cathodically protected as required by state and federal pipeline safety regulations. Similarly, building codes also require underground steel house lines to be coated and cathodically protected.
7.2
7.2.1
Coating Requirements
Specifications a. Coating for Aboveground Applications A good quality paint intended for exterior use on metal is an acceptable aboveground coating. b. Coatings for Underground Applications i. Pipe a) All steel pipe used for underground applications shall be purchased with mill applied Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) coating. b) Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) is the only approved mill applied coating for steel piping in underground applications. ii. Joints and Defects a) At pipe joints and where defects in the pipe coating exist, the underground coatings on steel piping must be one of the approved coatings listed below. For other underground coatings, the coating must be approved by LG&E prior to its installation. Poly-Butyl Tape - The tape must have a total thickness of at least 25 mils that shall consist of a 20 mil tar based mastic or synthetic elastomer coating backed by a polyethylene film. It is applicable between the temperatures of -20°F and +130°F. Wax Tape (i.e., Plastic-fiber felt, saturated with a blend of petrolatum waxes, plasticizers and corrosion inhibitors, forming a tape wrapper)
7.2.2
Pipe Surface Preparation and Coating Installation a. Aboveground Piping i. Clean the piping surface of all dirt, oil, grease, moisture and other foreign matter. Oil and grease should be cleaned using a cleaning solvent. Remove all paint that is not tightly adhered.
ii.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
iii. Remove rust and loose mill scale. Power tool cleaning is recommended. However, hand tool cleaning (i.e., wire brushing) is acceptable. Use a cleaning solvent as required to ensure a clean piping surface. iv. Paint the piping surface with an aboveground coating. Refer to Section 7.2.1. v. The proper protective clothing, gloves and mask should be worn during the surface preparation and coating installation process.
b. Underground Piping At Joints and For Defects In Coatings i. Poly-Butyl Tape a) For defects in the coating, remove all damaged coating to a point where it is firmly bonded to the pipe. b) Clean the piping surface (i.e., the welded joints and the defects in the coating) of all dirt, oil, grease, moisture and other foreign matter. Oil and grease should be cleaned using a cleaning solvent. c) Remove all rust, paint, and loose mill scale. Power tool cleaning is recommended. However, hand tool cleaning (i.e., wire brushing) is acceptable. Use a cleaning solvent as required to ensure a clean piping surface. d) File or grind smooth all sharp edges or burns to prevent protrusion through the Poly-Butyl tape. e) Apply a thin uniform coating of primer to the clean piping surface and to the mill coated piping surfaces within the area to be wrapped. The primer used shall be compatible with the coating. The piping surface must be moisture free prior to the priming procedure and remain moisture free throughout application of the Poly-Butyl tape. f) Allow primed piping surface to dry to a “tacky” stage before application of the Poly-Butyl tape.
g) Apply the Poly-Butyl tape over the weld joint or defect area by using a cigarette wrap. A cigarette wrap consists of using pre-cut strips of Poly-Butyl tape equal in length to the circumference of the pipe plus a minimum of four inches (4”). h) Apply the Poly-Butyl tape over the entire area (including the weld joint) to be wrapped by spirally wrapping the Poly-Butyl tape around the pipe using a continuous 50% overlap of tape. The Poly-Butyl tape should be applied under tension. However, the last turn should be applied without tension. The tension in wrapping should be enough to obtain conformability to the surface being coated. The Poly-Butyl tape should then be cut on the downside of the turn and pressed into position. i) For questions or additional guidance involving the surface preparation and/or the installation of Poly-Butyl tape, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area.
ii.
Wax Tape a) For defects in the coating, remove all damage coating to a point where it is firmly bonded to the pipe. b) Clean the piping surface (i.e., the welded joints and the defects in the coating) of all dirt, oil, grease, moisture and other foreign matter. Oil and grease should be cleaned using a cleaning solvent. c) Remove all rust, paint, and loose mill scale. Power tool cleaning is recommended. However, hand tool cleaning (i.e., wire brushing) is acceptable. Use a cleaning solvent as required to ensure a clean piping surface. 52
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
d) File or grind smooth all sharp edges or burns to prevent protrusion through the underground coating. e) Apply a thin uniform coating of primer to the clean piping surface and to the mill coated piping surfaces within the area to be wrapped. The primer used shall be compatible with the coating. While it is preferred that the piping surface be moisture free prior to the priming procedure, a damp or wet surface is tolerable when applying wax primer and tape. Where moisture is present, rub and press primer into the piping surface, displacing the moisture and ensuring that the primer adheres to the piping surface. f) Apply the wax tape by spirally wrapping the wax tape around the pipe using a 25% overlap (e.g., using a four inch (4”) inch wax tape, a one inch (1”) overlap is required). Press the wax tape into place making sure that no air pockets exist and that the wax tape is in contact with the piping surface. Press and smooth out the lap seams to ensure that the laps are sealed.
g) For questions or additional guidance involving the surface preparation and/or the installation of wax tape, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area. 7.2.3 Coating Placement Underground mill applied coating shall extend, at a minimum, six inches (6”) above grade on any steel piping that enters or leaves the ground. 7.2.4 Coating Damage Prevention a. Care should be exercised in the handling of coated pipe. b. The bottom of the ditch must be free of rocks or foreign objects that may damage the coating. In addition, backfill shall be free of rocks or debris that may damage the coating. For more detail on backfill and trench bottom conditions, refer to Section 3.10.2 a. – BackFill and Trench Bottom Requirements.
7.3
7.3.1
Electrical Insulation
In order for cathodic protection to be effective, all protected pipe must be electrically separated from any electrically grounded metallic structure or piping. Dielectric couplings, dielectric unions, or dielectric flanges may be used at each point the protected piping extends out of or into the ground.
7.3.2
7.4
7.4.1
Anodes
General a. Cathodic protection can normally be provided to the coated and electrically isolated underground steel piping by means of a magnesium anode. b. Magnesium anodes have an insulated lead wire that must be electrically attached to the protected piping by thermite welding, brazing, or with an approved mechanical grounding clamp. c. The connection to the piping must be coated with an approved mastic or with tape and primer in the same manner as a joint or defect in the coating.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
.4.2
Anode Spacing a. For maximum effectiveness, one five pound (5 lbs) standard potential magnesium anode should be used for each 50 foot (50’) section of underground steel piping. b. To the extent practice, the anodes should be evenly spaced over the length of the piping being protected.
7.4.3
Anode Installation Anodes should be installed vertically at least three feet (3’) away from the piping with the top of the anode even with or lower than the elevation of the buried piping. See Drawing No. GCS 50-20-801, Vertical Installation Anode and Test Station, for recommended anode installation method.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION OF GAS BURNING APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT
8.1 Customer’s Responsibility
This section of this handbook is included to provide general information regarding safe installation and operation of gas burning appliances and equipment. Whereas LG&E will not knowingly provide gas service to an unsafe installation or operation, it is the installer’s and Customer’s responsibility to install and operate appliances and equipment safely.
8.2
8.2.1
Permits and Inspections
Installation of gas burning furnaces, boilers, space heaters, and other permanently installed equipment is subject to permit and inspection by the local building inspection authority. The installer has the responsibility of obtaining the necessary permits and post installation inspections.
8.2.2
8.3
Code Compliance
Appliances and equipment should be installed in accordance with the National Fuel Gas Code, NFPA 54, or other codes as applicable. The National Fuel Gas Code includes provisions for safe location, clearance from combustible materials, combustion air ventilation, and proper venting of combustion fumes.
8.4
Initial Startup of Appliances and Equipment
Upon initial startup, each gas appliance shall be checked for proper performance and operation, and shall be adjusted if necessary. Manufacturers’ written procedures shall be followed when available. At least the following operational tests shall be performed:
8.4.1
Test final gas connections and burner train for leaks. Using leak detecting solution or a sensitive electronic gas detecting instrument, check all final pipe connections downstream of the manual valve on the house line, including the appliance control valve and burner train. Repair any leaks.
8.4.2
Check gas firing rate. a. Check the input BTUH rate with the appliance operating at full capacity. b. Do not allow firing rate to exceed the nameplate input rating for the appliance. c. Adjust appliance pressure regulator or change orifices per manufacturers’ instructions if necessary. Instructions for timing the gas meter to determine firing rate are in Section 9.4 of this Handbook.
8.4.3
Check primary air adjustment. Visually observe flames for proper characteristics and adjust and secure air shutters if necessary.
8.4.4
Check controls and protective devices. Gas valves, electronic ignition, high temperature limit controls, flame sensing devices, and other safety controls shall be checked in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions. Any defective controls must be properly repaired or replaced.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
8.4.5
Check chimney draft. a. With appliance in normal operation for several minutes and with doors and windows closed, check for effective chimney performance. b. Perform match test at draft hood relief opening. A lighted match passed directly beneath the opening should continue to burn with flame and smoke drawn to the opening. If the match is extinguished, or the flame and smoke are blown away, combustion fumes are spilling out of the opening indicating that the chimney is not effectively venting. c. Where two or more appliances are vented through a common flue, check all draft hoods.
d. Do not continue to operate an appliance that is not properly venting. Corrections must be made for safe operation.
Natural gas appliances and heating systems are safe, dependable and cost-efficient. Add natural gas appliances and equipment to your home and find out why natural gas is America's best energy value.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
METER INFORMATION
9.1 How to Read Your Meter
Your natural gas meter is an accurate automatic measuring instrument. It measures the natural gas used to operate all of your natural gas appliances (e.g., hot water heater, furnace, range, etc.) by counting the filling and emptying of the compartments inside the meter. The natural gas used is measured in units of hundred standard cubic feet. A standard cubic foot is the volume of gas at a specific pressure (i.e., (4) ounces (i.e., 0.25 psig)) and temperature (i.e., sixty degrees Fahrenheit (60ºF)). The amount of gas measured is displayed on the meter index. The meter index is located on the front of the meter and may consist of either dials or an odometer. It consists of a reading and test portion. The reading portion will be described in the “Reading Dial Type Index Meters” and “Reading Odometer Type Index Meters”. The test portion is used for the following four applications: Confirm that a meter is operable, Test a gas house line system that is in service for leakage at operating pressure, Calculate the rate of gas consumption for a gas utilizing device, and Enable the accuracy of the meter to be tested in a certified meter proving facility.
Your consumption can be determined by subtracting your previous meter reading from your present meter reading. This amount will give you the volume of gas used in units of hundred cubic feet (CCF). Reading Dial Type Index Meters
Normally, an dial type index will have four (4) dials in a horizontal line with the dials labeled from left to right as “1 million,” “100 thousand,” “10 thousand,” and “1 thousand,”. These four dials are used in reading the meter. Also, the index will have two dials labeled “half foot” and “two foot”. The dials are used for meter tests and should be ignored in reading the meter. To read your dial type index meter, look at the four dials with their curved arrows. Read the dials from right to left as follows: 1. Read numbers that the dial pointers passed. Read the “1-thousand” dial as 1. Read the “10-thousand” dial as 0. Read the “100-thousand” dial as 9. Read the “1-million” dial as 4. 61
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
2. When a dial pointer is between two numbers, always record the number that the pointer has passed, which will always be the smaller number of the two numbers. 3. If a dial pointer is directly on a number, check the dial immediately to the right. The pointer on the right dial must have reached or passed zero to record the number on the left dial. If the pointer on the right dial has not passed zero, use the smaller number from the left dial. Following these guidelines, the correct reading for the meter dial shown above is 1094 hundred cubic feet (CCF): Reading Odometer Type Index Meters The odometer type index is a direct read. It reads like an odometer on a car. However, instead of measuring miles traveled, it measures the amount of natural gas used. Similarly, to a dial type index, it also will have two dials labeled “half foot” and “two foot”. The dials are used for meter tests and should be ignored in reading the meter. To read your odometer type index meter, read the number displayed. Each of the number would correlate to one of the four dials illustrated above.
Following these guidelines, the correct reading for the meter dials shown above is 1094 hundred cubic feet (CCF):
9.2
Meter Operability
To confirm that a meter is operable, place any gas utilizing device served by that meter into operation and observe the test dial. Movement of the hand should be apparent, the speed of which will depend upon the rate of consumption for the device.
9.3
9.3.1
Leak Test for A House Line System
To test for leaks in a house line system that is presently in service, perform the following steps: a. Completely shut off all connected gas utilizing devices, including their pilot lights if so equipped. b. Shut off all manual valves preceding connected gas utilizing devices. c. Mark the position of the test hand on the meter index glass. A felt tip pen, wax pencil, etc., may be used.
d. Observe the test hand for a minimum of ten minutes; any movement indicates that a leak exists. e. Locate and identify leaks so that proper repair or replacement can be implemented. To locate gas leaks, only use gas leak detecting solution or gas detecting instruments. Never use a match or open flame to locate gas leaks. 62
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
9.3.2
If a major leak is suspected, do not perform the above test. Call the LG&E Gas Emergency Service at (502) 589-5511. If you should shut off the service valve preceding the meter because of a suspected leak, do not turn it on after the leak has been repaired. Notify LG&E. LG&E will confirm that the house line system is free from leaks and then turn on the gas.
9.3.3
9.4
9.4.1
Gas Consumption Test
To test the gas consumption and BTU input rate for a device, perform the following steps: a. Turn off all appliances or devices not to be included in the test. For most accurate results, shut off their pilot lights. b. Place the appliance to be tested into full operation. c. Observe the test dial. Using a stop watch or conventional watch, count the number of revolutions of the test hand that occur in one minute, or time the number of seconds required for one or more complete revolutions.
d. Calculate the flow rate of gas using the following formula:
Q
N F 3600 t
Q = Flow rate of gas in cubic feet per hour (CFH) N = Number of turns of the test hand F = Volume in cubic feet for one turn of the test hand (Most residential meters have a 1/2 cubic foot test dial.) t = Measured time in seconds
Where:
Note: If the gas is being delivered at a pressure other than the standard pressure (i.e., 4 ounces), a multiplier must be applied. For assistance, consult the Gas Operations Center in your area. e. To determine the BTUH input for the device being tested, multiply the above flow rate by one thousand. While this value is an approximation, it is a conservative value because the BTU content for the natural gas delivered by LG&E is guaranteed to be a minimum of 1,000 BTU per standard cubic foot. Normally, the BTU content is slightly higher. 9.4.2 Upon completion of the test, return other appliances to normal operation.
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64
Gas Inspection Requests LG&E Residential Service Fax: (502) 333-1823
Gas Inspection Request
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Plumber’s name: Telephone Number: Fax Number: Requested by:
Full Address
Street Name Zip Code Subdivision Name Cross Street LG&E OK Conf. # LG&E NO METER ORDER
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
House #
Lot #
65
Note: If more than one (1) meter per service, please note on address.
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Conveyance of Right of Way - Sample
CONVEYANCE OF RIGHT OF WAY
The undersigned, ______________________________________, of Jefferson County, Kentucky, for valuable consideration, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged (said consideration for this instrument is not measurable in money), do hereby grant and convey unto LOUISVILLE GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY, a Kentucky corporation, 820 W. Broadway, P. O. Box 32020, Louisville, KY 40232, its successors and assigns, (herein called the Company) the right and easement to construct, lay, maintain, operate, repair, and remove pipe line or lines for the transportation and distribution of gas, together with all equipment necessary or appropriate in connection therewith, along a route to be determined by the Company, crossing under the Grantor’s/Grantors’ property located at _____________________________, in Jefferson County, Kentucky. A fifteen foot (15’) wide gas easement parallel and adjacent to the south property line as shown by the hatched area on the LG&E drawing, attached hereto and made a part hereof. Said easement shall be maintained and preserved in its present condition and no change in grade or elevation will be made without the express consent in writing of the Company. Title to which was acquired by us by Deed dated the _____ day of _____________, ______ and recorded in Deed Book _____, Page ______, and recorded in the Office of the County Court of Jefferson County, Kentucky. There shall be no buildings or structures erected within the limits of this easement. The Company is further granted the right of ingress and egress over the lands of the undersigned to and from said line in the exercise of this easement and is further granted the right to do all reasonably necessary trimming and removal of trees and branches for the proper clearance of said line or lines. The gas service, or services, shall be extended to a point in a location designated by the Company. It is further agreed that the Company, at its option, will either repair, restore or pay to the undersigned for damages that may be caused by the Company in the exercise of this easement. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, witness the signatures of the undersigned this ____ day of _______________, 200__.
_____________________________________
Signature
____________________________________
Signature
_____________________________________
Address
Agent: Job #:
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SERVICE RELATED DRAWINGS
Drawing Numbers
GCS – 20-10-001 GCS – 20-20-002 GCS – 20-20-003 A GCS – 20-20-004 GCS – 20-20-005 GCS – 30-20-201 GCS – 30-30-201 A GCS – 30-30-202 A GCS – 30-30-203 A GCS – 30-20-204 GCS – 30-20-301 GCS – 30-20-302 GCS – 30-20-001 GCS – 30-10-002 A GCS – 30-20-002 GCS – 30-20-205 A GCS – 30-20-206 A GCS – 30-10-003 GCS – 30-10-004 A GCS – 30-20-003 GCS – 30-20-004 A GCS – 30-20-005 A GCS – 30-20-006 A GCS – 30-20-007 GCS – 20-20-006 GCS – 80-20-301 GCS – 80-20-302 A GCS – 50-20-801 GCS – 40-20-003
Description of Drawings
Acceptable Service Line Locations Installation of Gas Service Line in Shallow Rock Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion Detail Insert Protector & Sleeve for Polyethylene Insertion Attachment of Tracing Wire 1” Prefabricated Meter Loop Low Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT Medium Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator Elevated Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator 1” Meter Loop Field Fabricated 1” Meter Loop with By-pass 1 ½ Meter Loop with By-pass Typical Multiple Meter Installation for Various Types of Meters Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations CSST House Piping Mobile Home Meter Loop Typical Multiple Meter Installation Prefabricated Meter Loops Acceptable Gas Meter Locations Acceptable Gas Meter Locations Meter Barricade Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line Flexible Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line Service Head Adapter/Straight Pipe Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line Anodeless Riser for Large Polyethylene Gas Service Line Gas Pipe Sleeving Through Concrete or Masonry Vertical Branch Connection with Drip Leg Polyethylene to Steel Transition for Underground House Line Vertical Installation Anode and Test Station 2.5 psig Residential Gas regulator Installation for Gas Pool Heaters/Gas Fired Generators
Page Number
70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13656
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ACCEPTABLE SERVICE LINE LOCATIONS
GCS - 20 10 001
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13646
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
INSTALLATION OF GAS SERVICE LINE IN SHALLOW ROCK
GCS - 20 20 002
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13643
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
INSTALLATION OF POLYETHYLENE SERVICE BY INSERTION
GCS - 20 20 003
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
1/19/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13642
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
DETAIL OF INSERT PROTECTOR & SLEEVE FOR POLYETHYLENE INSERTION
GCS - 20 20 004
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13640
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ATTACHMENT OF TRACING WIRE
GCS - 20 20 005
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 15869
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1" PREFABRICATED METER LOOP
GCS - 30 20 201
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 15851
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
LOW PRESSURE METERSET ASSEMBLY 1 NPS x 20 LT
GCS - 30 30 201
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
1/19/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 15852
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
MEDIUM PRESSURE METERSET ASSEMBLY 1 NPS x 20 LT WITH REGULATOR
GCS - 30 30 202
Date: Drawn By: Scale
A
Sheet:
1/19/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTE: PLUMBING SUPPLIERS DO NOT HAVE GREEN ELEVATED PRESSURE REGULATORS. CUSTOMER SHOULD PURCHASE MEDIUM PRESSURE MODEL. LG&E WILL SWAP OUT NEW REGULATOR AT TIME OF SERVICE ACTIVATION.
OLD DRAWING - A 15853
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ELEVATED PRESSURE METERSET ASSEMBLY 1 NPS x 20 LT WITH REGULATOR
GCS - 30 30 203
Date: Drawn By: Scale
A
Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13645
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1" METER LOOP FIELD FABRICATED
GCS - 30 20 204
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13648
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1" METER LOOP WITH BY-PASS
GCS - 30 20 301
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTES:
1 1. GAS SERVICE VALVE, 1 2", TAMPERPROOF, LOCK-OFF, 100PSI OR GREATER 1 2. GAS VALVE 1 2" 1 3. PIPE PLUG 1 2" 4. SPLIT RING CLAMP OR EQUIVALENT 5. METER TO BE FURNISHED AND INSTALLED BY LG&E CO. 6. REGULATOR TO BE FURNISHED AND INSTALLED BY LG&E CO. 7. ANODLESS SERVICE RISER, SIZE AND CONFIGURATION AS REQUIRED
2
2
TOP VIEW
4"
15"
SPLIT RING CLAMP OR EQUIVALENT SHALL BE INSULATED FROM GAS PIPE WHEN CLAMP IS ATTACHED TO METAL STRUCTURE. HOUSE LINE (OUTLET) SIZE TO BE DETERMINED 3
1 PVC SLEEVE
3
12"
10"
1
6
BUILDING LINE
4
SIDE VIEW
FRONT VIEW
GRADE
SERVICE TO BE SIZED 7
OLD DRAWING - 2144
Distribution Operations
Title:
TITLE:
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1 1/2" METER LOOP WITH BY-PASS
GCS - 30 20 302
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
40" MIN TO 60" MAX
None 1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTES: 1 2 3 4 5 Master valve required, Tamperproof, 100 PSIG minimum rating Minimum center to center distance between meter risers 16" if both meter loops are 1" pipe size, 24" if either or both meter loops are 1 1/2" pipe size. Bypass valve on service line side not required on every bypass loop if a service line bypass connection is accessible on a neighboring loop within 48" Minimum manifold size is 1" nominal iron pipe size, larger if required to supply gas demand. Support with split ring clamps or equivalent. Each riser must be supported near top. Support must be adequate to bear weight of meters and piping plus all anticipated external forces. Stand off from wall nominal 3" to 5".
Meter Loops to be as required. Meter loops shown below are: Meter Loop #1. 1" prefabricated meter loop. Meter Loop #2. 1" field assemblied meter loop with bypass. Meter Loop #3. 1 1/2" field assembiled meter loop with bypass. Meter Loop #4. 1" field assemblied meter loop without bypass. Meter Loops to be built in accordance with applicable drawings.
Meter Loop #3
Meter Loop #2
3
Meter Loop #1
Meter Loop #4
2 1
12" MIN.
4
5
GRADE
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
TYPICAL MULTI-METERS INSTALLATION FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF METERS
Job#
Revision:
GCS - 30 20 001
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Figures below are defined as: FIG. A - Vertical 2 Meter Manifold FIG. B - Horizontal Multiple Meter Manifold FIG. C - Multiple Meters on Two or More Manifolds
MASTER VALVE
(FIG. A)
GRADE
MASTER VALVE
12" MIN CLEARANCE
(FIG. B)
MASTER VALVE
MASTER VALVE
12" MIN CLEARANCE
GRADE
Distribution Operations
Title:
(FIG. C)
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
MASTER VALVE REQUIREMENTS FOR MULTIPLE METER INSTALLATIONS
GCS - 30 10 002
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
1/2/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 14779
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
CSST HOUSE PIPING
GCS - 30 20 002
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
MOBILE HOME WALL 2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER RIGID PIPE 1' to 3' 2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER 2" STEEL PIPE SUPPORT 2" STEEL PIPE SUPPORT
2" PIPE SUPPORT
ATTACH APROVED FLEXIBLE CONNECTOR TO MOBILE HOME
2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER THREE FEET MIN. "SIDE TO SIDE" FROM ANY POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCE (ELECTRIC METER, AIRCONDITIONER, AIR INTAKE TO HOME.) MEASURE FROM METER ELBOWS. METER CONNECTIONS RISER SHALL BE 1" IN SIZE. METER MUST NOT BLOCK INGRESS OR EGRESS INCLUDING EMERGENCY EXITS. (SERVICE LINE NOT TO BE UNDER MOBILE HOME). 6"
INSERT "A"
SIDE VIEW
TOP VIEW
METER FURNISHED BY LOUISVILLE GAS AND ELECTRIC.
SPLIT RING
MOBILE HOME WALL
SEE INSERT "A" 2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER
2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER SEE INSERT "A" 2" PIPE OR PREFABRICATED GAS METER SUPPORT STAKES. (TREATED LUMBER IS NOT TO BE USED.)
SPLIT RING
6" MIN GRADE
TRACER WIRE 18" MIN
POLYETHYLENE SERVICE
SIDE VIEW
Distribution Operations
Title:
FRONT VIEW
OLD DRAWING - A 13649 Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
MOBILE HOME METER LOOP
GCS - 30 20 205
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
1/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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NOTES: 1. Prefabricated meter set, see Drawings GCS-30 30 201 thru GCS-30 30 203. 2. Gas valve, tamperproof, lockwing, 100 PSI or greater, size as required. For Master Valve requirements. Refer to GCS 30-10-002. 3. Support brackets, split ring clamp or equivalent, 4" to 5" from wall to center pipe typical. 4. Standard fittings, threaded malleable iron or forged steel class 150 or higher; socket weld or welded end fittings as applicable, size as required. 5. Schedule 40 steel pipe, minimum 1" nominal size, larger if necessary to satisfy load requirements. A - Split ring clamp or equivalent required on service line side of each meter set, near top. B - Service regulator furnished with prefabricated meter set. Regulator must match service line system pressure rating. Grey regulator, 1/8" orifice required for medium pressure, green regulator ½" X 9/16" orifice required for elevated pressure. No regulator for low pressure. C - Each meter set must be tagged to identify customer or property unit served.
FRONT VIEW
1 C C C C
SIDE VIEW
A
1
B
2 5'-0" MAXIMUM ABOVE GRADE
3 1 C C C C
2'-3" A 2
3
12" MIN CLEARANCE
GRADE
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
TYPICAL MUTIPLE METER INSTALLATION PREFABRICATED METER LOOPS
Job#
GCS - 30 20 206
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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OLD DRAWING - A 13657
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ACCEPTABLE GAS METER LOCATIONS
GCS - 30 10 003
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
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3'-0 "R
AD IUS
SERVICE LINE 1'-0" 1'-0"
OLD DRAWING - A 15857
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ACCEPTABLE GAS METER LOCATIONS
GCS - 30 10 004
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13644
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
METER BARRICADE
GCS - 30 20 003
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 12524
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
METER RISER FOR USE WITH POLYETHYLENE GAS SERVICE LINE
GCS - 30 20 004
Date: Drawn By: Scale
A
Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 12525
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
FLEXIBLE METER RISER FOR USE WITH POLYETHYLENE GAS SERVICE LINE
Job#
GCS - 30 20 005
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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OLD DRAWING - A 12527
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
SERVICE HEAD ADAPTER/ STRAIGHT PIPE METER RISER FOR USE WITH POLYETHYLENE GAS SERVICE LINE
Job#
GCS - 30 20 006
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
01/2O/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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SERVICE VALVE & METER LOOP PIPING AS REQUIRED
MOUNTING BRACKET MUST PROVIDE VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL SUPPORT
GRADE LEVEL MARK MUST BE ABOVE FINISHED GRADE
GRADE LEVEL
ANNODELESS RISER 18" MIN.
TRACING WIRE
BASE OF RISER AND SERVICE LINE MUST REST ON UNDISTURBED OR WELL COMPACTED SOIL APPROVED PLASTIC TO PLASTIC MECHANICAL COUPLING OR HEAT FUSION JOINT
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ANODELESS RISER FOR LARGE POLYETHENE GAS SERVICE LINE
GCS - 30 20 007
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None 1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13650
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
GAS PIPE SLEEVING THROUGH CONCRETE OR MASONRY
GCS - 20 20 006
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None 1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13639
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
VERTICAL BRANCH CONNECTION WITH DRIP LEG
GCS - 80 20 301
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/02
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 13653
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
POLYETHYLENE TO STEEL TRANSITION FOR UNDERGROUND HOUSE LINE
GCS - 80 20 302
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
01/2O/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
O LD DR A W IN G - A 13661
D istribution O perations
T itle:
Job#
G as S ervice H andbook
Lou is ville Ga s & Electric C om pany
V E R TIC A L IN S TA LLA TIO N O F A N O D E A N D TE S T S TA TIO N
G C S - 50 20 801
D ate: D raw n B y:
R evisio n:
S cale
S heet:
1/2/03
C LA R K
N one
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NOTES: * 2 1/2 PSIG GAS NOT TO ENTER BUILDING. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBLE FOR SIZING, MAINTENANCE AND PROPER OPERATION OF ALL REGULATORS DOWNSTREAM OF METER.
1 1/2" METER LOOP WITH BY-PASS SEE DRAWING GCS 30 20 302
STANDARD 1" REGULATOR FOR ALL OTHER APPLICATIONS IN HOUSE (PLUMBER SUPPLY) * GAS FIRED GENERATOR
2 1/2 LB.- 1 1/2" REGULATOR LG&E SUPPLIED SEE INSERT "A" BELOW FOR REGULATOR DETAIL
REGULATOR SIZE FOR GENERATOR WILL VARY (PLUMBER OR MANUFACTURE SUPPLY)
INSERT "A" (TOP VIEW)
FLOW
(FRONT VIEW)
VALVE 1/2" TEST PLUG 1/2" NIPPLE & COCK UNION OPTIONAL VALVE
REGULATOR
Distribution Operations
Title:
TITLE:
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
2.5 psig RESIDENTIAL GAS REGULATOR INSTALLATION FOR GAS POOL HEATERS/GAS FIRED GENERATORS
GCS - 40 20 003
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
01/24/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Louisville Gas & Electric Company Customer Gas Piping Handbook
Residential and Commercial Loads Less Than 500,000 BTUH
Fifth Edition Second Revision May 2011
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
PREFACE
PREFACE
Louisville Gas and Electric Company (LG&E) provides retail gas and electric service in a defined service territory in and around the Metro Louisville, Kentucky area. The Customer Gas Piping Handbook is intended to address natural gas service issues within the prescribed service territory. A separate document, “Electric Service Handbook”, details the requirements for electric service.
Customer Gas Piping Handbook
The Customer Gas Piping Handbook prescribes LG&E’s standards with respect to gas service and meter installations pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC). All piping used for gas service lines and meter installations must be installed in accordance with the specifications provided by LG&E and will be subject to inspection and testing by LG&E. In the event that special circumstances prevent compliance with the service line specifications prescribed within this handbook, LG&E will give proper consideration to alternative methods, provided that the above-referenced regulations are not violated and that safety and reliability are not jeopardized. The Customer has the responsibility of notifying LG&E of any changes to the piping, appliances, or building structure that may affect safety or gas system performance. In addition, this handbook includes standards pertaining to Customers’ house piping and appliance installation in the interest of uniform and safe operations. The standards for new house piping and appliance installation are generally applicable for replacement or relocation of existing facilities. By publishing this handbook, LG&E does not assume liability or responsibility for house piping, appliance installation, or appliance operation. LG&E maintains the right to refuse to supply gas to piping or appliances that are installed or operated in a potentially unsafe manner. In addition, LG&E is not responsible for continuing inspection or surveillance of Customers’ house piping, appliances, or appliance operation. LG&E reserves the right to modify the requirements found in this handbook or any of its service policies, procedures and/or standards at any time. It is the responsibility of the Customer to ensure that any reference document is the version currently approved for use by LG&E. It is also the responsibility of the Customer to notify LG&E of any changes to natural gas facilities that may affect the safety or natural gas system performance.
Louisville Gas and Electric Company – Customer Gas Piping Handbook Distribution Operations – Asset Management
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
NATURAL GAS SAFETY
Safety First – Providing Safe Natural Gas Service
The health and safety of LG&E’s Customers and employees and the general public are our highest priorities. LG&E believes strongly in the concept that safety is everyone’s responsibility. LG&E’s employees and contractors will not perform any work in areas considered to be unsafe or install or connect any natural gas facilities that are, in the opinion of our employees or contractors, unsafe or not in compliance with LG&E’s requirements or governing codes and regulations. Both LG&E and Customer-owned natural gas facilities must be planned, designed, built, maintained, and operated in a manner that minimizes the risk of injury and property damage during construction and throughout the life of the facility.
Personal Safety
Using Natural Gas Safely It is important that users know how to safely use natural gas and care for natural gas appliances. One of the first steps to prevent accidents is to ensure that natural gas appliances and equipment have been properly installed, adjusted, vented and inspected. Appliances should be installed, serviced and repaired by professionals. Other safety precautions that should be taken include the following: Follow manufacturers’ instructions for the installation, operation and maintenance of gas equipment and appliances. Never use a kitchen range to heat a room. This action can damage the range and produce dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) gas. In addition, top burners should not be used for space heating; such usage can be a fire hazard. Since burning natural gas produces a high radiant heat, keep flammable materials (e.g., cloth, paper, paints, and solvents) away from appliances. Provide proper ventilation in areas around furnaces, water heaters, dryers, ranges, etc. Have routine maintenance performed on appliances to keep them clean and in proper working order. Keep natural gas kitchen ranges clean. Rinse and dry the burners before reinstalling. Be careful not to damage or change the settings on the range burners’ air shutters or sleeves. Ensure that all vents and chimneys are free from blockage. Clean or change filters on furnaces and dryers regularly. Maintain the gas lines that are located inside and outside the house to prevent leaks. The gas service lines buried from the property line to the house and all house line piping within the house are the responsibility of the property owner. LG&E will periodically survey all outside piping for leaks and will advise you if any maintenance is required on your portion of the service line. LG&E will also inform you of any corrosion that is discovered on any outside piping that is exposed to the weather and advise you to paint the affected area. Contact the Kentucky Dig Safely, also known as “BUD” (Before You Dig), at (800) 752-6007 to determine the location of utility-owned service lines (including LG&E’s natural gas lines) before you begin any yard excavation. This is a free service offered by Kentucky Dig Safely. Do not operate any electrical switches, equipment or appliances or use open flames if you smell a natural gas odor. Leaking natural gas can ignite.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
Teach Natural Gas Safety To Your Family Every family member should know how to find and turn off the natural gas shut-off valve at the meter. This valve should be closed only in the event of a natural gas emergency in your home. If you turn off the shut-off valve, do not turn it on again. Call LG&E at (502) 589-5511 (outside Louisville at (800) 331-7370), and let us re-establish your gas service for you. Teach small children to stay away from the gas range and gas-burning appliances. Do not let children play or climb on the meter piping on the outside of the house; do not allow them to swing from or play with pipes leading to water heaters or ranges. Practice safety drills for getting the family out of the house at night in case of a natural gas emergency or any other emergency such as a fire.
What To Do If You Smell Natural Gas If you smell gas and cannot find the source(s), immediately go to a location where no natural gas odor exists, such as a neighbor’s house, and call LG&E at (502) 589-5511 (outside Louisville at (800) 331-7370). A spark from using a telephone or cellular telephone inside the house could ignite the gas. If the odor is faint, get everyone outside and leave doors and windows open to ventilate the area. A faint odor of gas may mean that a pilot light has gone out and should be re-lit. If the odor is strong, get everyone out of the house immediately. Never use a telephone or cellular telephone, switch a light on or off, or light a match if you smell natural gas. Never look for a natural gas leak with a lighted flame or match. Do not try to re-light a gas furnace, water heater, or range.
Facts About Natural Gas
Natural gas is an abundant, clean burning, energy-efficient fuel. Natural gas is colorless, odorless and tasteless. As a safety precaution, a chemical called Mercaptan is added to natural gas. This chemical provides a distinctive odor that will alert persons to a potential safety hazard. Mercaptan has the smell of rotten eggs. Odors that are sometimes mistaken for natural gas can come from a variety of sources, such as petroleum products (especially gasoline), marsh gas, sewer gas, and industrial gases. Natural gas is not toxic (i.e., poisonous). No health hazards exist from the exposure to natural gas. However, if present in sufficient quantities to displace the oxygen in the air, it can cause drowsiness and eventual suffocation due to lack of oxygen. Natural gas is lighter than air. When released in an open space, natural gas will rise and diffuse rapidly. If confined in a closed space, natural gas will rise to the highest level. The air in the space will be displaced from the top downward. Therefore, to ventilate a room, windows should be open from the top and bottom portions of the room. To burn or explode, natural gas must mix with air in the proper amount (i.e., 4% to 15% natural gas to air) and be ignited at an ignition point of 1,100oF – 1,200oF. This ignition point is reached by pilot lights, flint sparks, matches, sparks from electrical switches and motors, or electrostatic sparks.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
A properly burning natural gas flame will have a crisp blue color. If natural gas is burned without enough air, it may produce carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas. A person exposed to carbon monoxide may complain of dizziness, headache, nausea, fatigue, and other flu-like symptoms. Natural gas should not be confused with liquefied petroleum gas. Liquefied petroleum gas is more commonly called L.P., bottle gas, propane, butane, and various other trade names. It is heavier than air and collects in low places when not confined.
Meter Tampering
Individuals, who tamper with natural gas meters and piping to make it show less consumption, or bypassing the meter entirely, endanger their own lives. They also risk the lives of their family and neighbors. Meter tampering can create a dangerous situation that can lead to serious and sometimes fatal injury from fire or explosion.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
EXCAVATION SAFETY
Call Before You Dig! Call Before You Dig! is the answer to the continuing problem of damage to underground facilities. Kentucky Dig Safely provides a communication link between excavators and operators of underground utilities. Kentucky Dig Safely is a non-profit organization made up of owners and operators of underground facilities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
IN KENTUCKY CALL BEFORE YOU DIG…. IT’S THE LAW
Toll free
1-800-752-6007
or
502-266-5123
in Louisville metro calling area or
www.kydigsafely.org
Please call Kentucky Dig Safely at least two business days and not more than ten business days prior to your planned excavation with the information listed below. There is no cost to the caller! Identity of contractor or excavator: name, address, etc. Dig site location: County, nearest city, inside/outside city limits, street name or highway name, address number, the nearest cross street intersection or other description if address is not available. Digging information: Type of work, depth of dig, location within property or right-of-way, method of excavation. Estimated date and time of excavation.
In turn, Kentucky Dig Safely will contact its member companies for you to have the underground facilities located in the vicinity of your planned excavation. In addition, they will advise you as to what utilities will be notified, and will provide you with a request number for your reference and documentation.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition May 2011
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT
Plan your work. Planning is vital for obtaining a successful natural gas project (e.g., service, installation, or repair). It includes, but not limited to, reading and following appropriate sections of the LG&E Customer Gas Piping Handbook, obtaining all necessary permits, deeds and/or easements, and acquiring necessary materials and equipment. If you have questions concerning your project, contact LG&E. Contact information for LG&E is located in Section 1 – General Information under Important Telephone Numbers. Pressure test the house line piping. In accordance with Subsection 5.9.1, house line piping should be pressure tested to detect leaks prior to contacting LG&E for service connection. Note: LG&E will not provide natural gas service to house line piping that is leaking. Make sure that the house line piping is ready. In accordance with Subsection 2.1.8 a. iii., to qualify for natural gas service, the house line piping system must be extended to an operable natural gas burning appliance(s) or to a plugged valve(s) at the proposed appliance(s) locations. In addition, the house line piping should be pressure tested to detect any leaks on the piping system. Avoid damaging the tracer wire. In accordance with Subsection 3.11.1, care must be taken to avoid damage to the tracing wire during placement and compaction of backfill. Use a clamp on the service riser. In accordance with Subsection 3.16.1 b., the service riser must be securely supported using split ring clamps or substantial mounting brackets in accordance with the applicable meter loop drawing. Polyethylene pipe or flexible riser casing must not be relied upon to contribute to the support of the meter setting. Make sure that the meter loop is not installed too low (i.e., service head adapter below grade). In accordance with Drawing Nos. GSC – 30-20-004, GSC – 30-20-005, and GSC – 30-20-006, the meter loop shall be installed such that the bottom of service head adapter is either at a minimum of six inches (6”) or a maximum of twelve inches (12”) above grade. Install a shutoff valve on the house line piping going to a fireplace that is designed to burn wood or other solid fuel. In accordance with Subsection 5.2.3, the shutoff valve shall be located outside of the firebox and accessible in the same room. This valve is not a part of the fireplace. If corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is used, the valve must be installed at the end of the CSST piping so that only steel fittings are used to actually connect the fireplace. In addition, this valve should be installed so that it is accessible at all times, even if it is in the basement. Be present to allow LG&E personnel access to natural gas appliances for the activation of gas service. To activate natural gas service for new service connection, service replacement, houseline repair, etc., LG&E needs access to all gas appliances. It is imperative that the Customer be present to grant access to the premises. Allow adequate time for LG&E to get utility locates. In accordance with the Excavation Safety section, LG&E is required to provide prior notification for planned excavation work. Thus, if LG&E needs to excavate to provide gas service, it will need to wait two full business days for other utility companies to locate and mark their buried utilities with color-coded paint, flags or stakes. Provide a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line for new or replacement service lines. In accordance with Section 3.2.2 a. ii. and 3.2.2 b., Customers are required excavate a 2’ x 4’ hole for new or replacement service lines.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT CHANGES FROM THE FOURTH EDITION
Added a Preface section. Enhanced the natural gas safety information by adding meter tampering information. Added a Common Mistakes Made By Installers section.
Section 1 – General Information
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Added Section 1.3 - Service Rates, Rules and Regulations.
Section 2 – New Service Installations
Revised and enhance new service installation process. Refer to Section 2.1 – Customer/Contractor Steps for New Service Installation. Added Section 2.2 – LG&E Steps. Added Section 2.3 – Service Requirements, Restrictions and Limitations.
Section 3 – Service Line Installations & Replacement
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Clarified Customers’ responsibility for providing a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line for new or replacement service lines. Refer to Section 3.2.2 a. ii. and 3.2.2 b. Add ½” CTS polyethylene pipe as an option when inserting through existing ¾” steel service lines. Refer to Section 3.9.4. Clarified the number of services for a common building on separately deeded parcels. Refer to Section 3.14.3. Enhance information related to the repair or replacement of service line, meter loop or manifold piping. Refer to Section 3.17.
Section 4 – Gas Meter Installations
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Change the diversified operation requirement from 400,000 BTUH to 375,000 BTUH. Refer to Sections 4.1.2, 4.5.1 b. ii and 4.5.1. b. iii.
Section 5 – House Line Installations
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Clarified the shutoff valve requirements for fireplaces. Refer to Section 5.2.3.
Section 6 – Sizing and Capacities of Gas House Line Piping
Added comments for the use of Tables 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3. 2
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Section 7 – Corrosion Prevention
No significant changes.
Section 8 – Gas Burning Equipment Installation and Operation
Reorganized the section to improve readability.
Section 9 – Meter Information
Reorganized the section to improve readability. Revised Section 9.1 - How to Read Your Meter.
Section 10 – Supplemental Information
Add a sample of the Conveyance of Right of Way form.
Section 10 – Service Related Drawings
Revised the following drawings: GCS – 20-20-003 - Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion GCS – 30-10-002 - Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations GCS – 30-10-004 - Acceptable Gas Meter Locations GCS – 30-20-004 - Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line GCS – 30-20-005 - Flexible Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line GCS – 30-20-006 - Service Head Adapter/Straight Pipe Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line GCS – 30-20-205 - Mobile Home Meter Loop GCS – 30-20-206 - Typical Multiple Meter Installation Prefabricated Meter Loops GCS – 30-30-201 - Low Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT GCS – 30-30-202 - Medium Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator GCS – 30-30-203 - Elevated Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator GCS – 80-20-302 - Polyethylene to Steel Transition for Underground House Line
Added the following drawing: GCS – 40-20-003 – 2.5 PSIG Residential Gas Regulator Installation For Gas Pool Heaters/Gas Fired Generators
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
LOUISVILLE GAS & ELECTRIC COMPANY ..................................................................................................................1 CUSTOMER GAS PIPING HANDBOOK .........................................................................................................................1 PREFACE .........................................................................................................................................................................2 PREFACE .........................................................................................................................................................................2 NATURAL GAS SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................................I SAFETY FIRST – PROVIDING SAFE NATURAL GAS SERVICE ................................................................................................. I PERSONAL SAFETY ........................................................................................................................................................... I FACTS ABOUT NATURAL GAS ........................................................................................................................................... II METER TAMPERING......................................................................................................................................................... III EXCAVATION SAFETY ..................................................................................................................................... IV
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR A SUCCESSFUL PROJECT............................................................................................ V SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT CHANGES FROM THE FOURTH EDITION ...................................................................2 SECTION 1 – GENERAL INFORMATION ...............................................................................................................................2 SECTION 2 – NEW SERVICE INSTALLATIONS ......................................................................................................................2 SECTION 3 – SERVICE LINE INSTALLATIONS & REPLACEMENT ............................................................................................2 SECTION 4 – GAS METER INSTALLATIONS .........................................................................................................................2 SECTION 5 – HOUSE LINE INSTALLATIONS .........................................................................................................................2 SECTION 6 – SIZING AND CAPACITIES OF GAS HOUSE LINE PIPING .....................................................................................2 SECTION 7 – CORROSION PREVENTION ............................................................................................................................3 SECTION 8 – GAS BURNING EQUIPMENT INSTALLATION AND OPERATION ............................................................................3 SECTION 9 – METER INFORMATION ...................................................................................................................................3 SECTION 10 – SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ....................................................................................................................3 SECTION 10 – SERVICE RELATED DRAWINGS ....................................................................................................................3 IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS ..........................................................................................................................8 LG&E NATURAL GAS EMERGENCIES…(502) 589-5511 .............................................................................................8 GENERAL INFORMATION ..............................................................................................................................................2 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 2.1 2.2 2.3 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 3.8 INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................................2 SCOPE .................................................................................................................................................................2 SERVICE RATES, RULES AND REGULATIONS ...........................................................................................................2 SERVICE AREA......................................................................................................................................................3 DEFINITIONS .........................................................................................................................................................4 CUSTOMER/CONTRACTOR STEPS FOR NEW SERVICE INSTALLATION .......................................................................7 LG&E STEPS .....................................................................................................................................................13 SERVICE REQUIREMENTS, RESTRICTIONS AND LIMITATIONS ..................................................................................14 SERVICE LINE LOCATIONS REQUIREMENTS ..........................................................................................................17 SERVICE LINE CONNECTION REQUIREMENTS........................................................................................................17 CLARIFICATION OF SERVICE LINE INSTALLATION OR REPLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS ..............................................18 PRESSURE SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE LINES .....................................................................................18 STEEL SERVICE LINE REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................................18 POLYETHYLENE SERVICE LINE REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................................18 SERVICE LINE SIZE .............................................................................................................................................20 SERVICE LINE PROTECTION .................................................................................................................................22 5
NEW SERVICE INSTALLATIONS ...................................................................................................................................7
SERVICE LINE INSTALLATIONS AND REPLACEMENTS .........................................................................................17
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
3.9 INSTALLATION METHODS/REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE LINES ............................................................................. 23 3.10 CASINGS ........................................................................................................................................................ 25 3.11 TRACING WIRE ............................................................................................................................................... 25 3.12 BRANCH CONNECTIONS .................................................................................................................................. 25 3.13 SERVICE LINE INSPECTIONS ............................................................................................................................ 26 3.14 SERVICE LINES PER BUILDING OR PROPERTY .................................................................................................. 26 3.15 JOINING REQUIREMENTS FOR GAS SERVICE LINE PIPING ................................................................................. 26 3.16 SERVICE RISER REQUIREMENTS ..................................................................................................................... 27 3.17 REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT OF SERVICE LINE, METER LOOP OR MANIFOLD PIPING ............................................ 28 GAS METER INSTALLATIONS .................................................................................................................................... 31 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.4 5.5 5.7 5.8 5.9 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 STANDARD METER CAPACITY ............................................................................................................................. 31 ACCEPTABLE METER LOCATIONS ........................................................................................................................ 31 METER ACCESSIBILITY ....................................................................................................................................... 32 MULTIPLE METERS ............................................................................................................................................. 32 METER LOOP ASSEMBLIES ................................................................................................................................. 32 METER PROTECTION .......................................................................................................................................... 34 HOUSE LINE CODE REQUIREMENTS .................................................................................................................... 37 VALVE REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................................................... 38 PRESSURE REGULATORS ................................................................................................................................... 38 PIPE REQUIREMENTS ......................................................................................................................................... 38 INSIDE PIPING INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS ...................................................................................................... 41 HOUSELINE PIPING PROTECTION ........................................................................................................................ 41 HOUSE LINE SUPPORT ....................................................................................................................................... 42 APPLIANCE CONNECTIONS ................................................................................................................................. 43 PRESSURE TEST ................................................................................................................................................ 43 GENERAL........................................................................................................................................................... 45 REFERENCE SOURCES ....................................................................................................................................... 45 PIPE SIZING ....................................................................................................................................................... 45 PIPE SIZING METHOD ......................................................................................................................................... 45 GENERAL CORROSION PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................... 51 COATING REQUIREMENTS................................................................................................................................... 51 ELECTRICAL INSULATION .................................................................................................................................... 53 ANODES ............................................................................................................................................................ 53 CUSTOMER’S RESPONSIBILITY ............................................................................................................................ 57 PERMITS AND INSPECTIONS ................................................................................................................................ 57 CODE COMPLIANCE............................................................................................................................................ 57 INITIAL STARTUP OF APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT .............................................................................................. 57 HOW TO READ YOUR METER .............................................................................................................................. 61 METER OPERABILITY .......................................................................................................................................... 62 LEAK TEST FOR A HOUSE LINE SYSTEM .............................................................................................................. 62 GAS CONSUMPTION TEST................................................................................................................................... 63
HOUSE LINE INSTALLATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 37
CORROSION PREVENTION......................................................................................................................................... 51
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION OF GAS BURNING APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT ..................................... 57
METER INFORMATION ................................................................................................................................................ 61
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................... 65 GAS INSPECTION REQUEST ........................................................................................................................................... 65 CONVEYANCE OF RIGHT OF WAY - SAMPLE .................................................................................................................... 66 SERVICE RELATED DRAWINGS ................................................................................................................................ 69
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IMPORTANT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
Emergency Numbers (24 Hours/Day) LG&E Natural Gas Emergencies…(502) 589-5511 Outside Louisville Area .............. (800) 331-7370 LG&E Electric Emergencies .......... (502) 589-3500 Outside Louisville Area .............. (800) 331-7370 Customer Service Call Center Numbers (Monday – Friday) Residential Service Call Center .... (502) 589-1444 (7 a.m. – 7 p.m. ET) Outside Louisville Area (800) 331-7370 TDD (hearing or (502) 627-3616 speech-impaired) Business Service Center ............... (502) 627-3313 (7 a.m. – 6 p.m. ET) Outside Louisville Area (800) 331-7370 TDD (hearing or (502) 627-3616 speech-impaired) For: Other LG&E Phone Numbers To Remember Monday – Friday) (7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. ET) Service Representative (502) 627-3740
For: - Availability of Natural Gas for Connected Loads of 500,000 BTU or Less - New Service Line (and related House Piping) Inspection and Connection Commercial Service Designer....... (502) 364-8275 For: - Availability of Natural Gas For Connected Loads Greater Than 500,000 BTU
Other Important Numbers Kentucky Dig Safely ...................... (502) 266-5123 (also known as “Before You Dig” or “BUD”) Outside Louisville Area .............. (800) 752-6007 All Other LG&E Numbers Not Listed (8 a.m. - 5 p.m. ET) Operator .......................................... (502) 627-2000 Toll Free........................................... (800) 331-7370
Apply for Natural Gas Service Arrange Service Transfers Customer Inquiry & Complaints Bill Corrections / Adjustments Credit / Reconnects / Transferred Balances Budget Billing Billing Inquiry
Service, Installation and Repair Numbers Gas Operations Centers (Monday – Friday) (7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. ET) (502 Area Code) Auburndale Operations Center ..627-3740 Bardstown Operations Center....348-9243 East Operations Center ...............627-3740 Muldraugh Operations Center ....942-3046 Concerned About Your Energy Bill? Call To Learn About Our Energy Audit Programs Residential Energy Audit ............... (800) 251-7808 Commercial Energy Audit ............. (502) 893-0256
LG&E Is Involved In Your Community Community Relations .................... (502) 627-4793 Economic Development................. (502) 574-5775 Environmental Excellence ............. (502) 627-3821
For Information Concerning: Installation, Repair or Replacement of New or Existing Gas Service Lines or House Line Piping Systems Replacement or Repaired Service Line Inspection and Reconnection Sizing Service Lines or Meters Acceptable Meter Locations Service Lines Under Buildings Homeowner’s Permits 8
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
GENERAL INFORMATION
1.1 Introduction
The Louisville Gas and Electric Company, referred to herein as "LG&E,” desires to cooperate with all concerned parties to further the proper installation and use of natural gas. To achieve this goal, the Customer Gas Piping Handbook was created to provide information to gas customers and potential gas customers regarding the installation and operation of gas piping and appliances. Gas customer, referred to herein as “Customer,” is used to address the party responsible for meeting the requirements of this handbook. While the Customer’s mechanical contractor, plumber and/or builder will in practice utilize this information the most, the Customer is ultimately responsible for meeting the requirements of this handbook. However, LG&E representatives are available to assist Customers in complying with requirements of this handbook.
1.2
Scope
This handbook provides specifications and construction standards for the installation of service lines and Customer metering facilities. It also provides guidance for the installation of house lines and gas appliances for single-family and multi-unit dwellings with individual meters and for small commercial and industrial customers served with natural gas from LG&E. In addition, it meets or exceeds not only the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC) regulations but also the NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code), Kentucky Uniform Building Code, and other relevant publications. However, the information contained herein does not preempt any of the rules, codes or regulations contained in the aforementioned publications. It is the Customer’s responsibility to notify LG&E of any conflict between this handbook and the requirements of any of the above publications.
1.3
1.3.1
Service Rates, Rules and Regulations
Kentucky Public Service Commission All natural gas service supplied by LG&E is provided in accordance with the applicable rates, rules, and regulations of the Kentucky Public Service Commission (KPSC), http://www.psc.state.ky.us/, and Louisville Gas and Electric Company http://www.lge-ku.com. The administrative rules of the KPSC can be found in the document Kentucky Administrative Regulations Pertaining to the Kentucky Public Service Commission, Title 807, and Chapter 7 – Utilities. This document is available for public inspection at the Commission, on the KPSC Internet site (above), at LG&E’s Customer Service Center at 701 South Ninth Street in Louisville, Kentucky, and also at the LG&E Internet site (above). This document establishes general rules and regulations for all types of public utility service (water, gas, electric, telephone, etc.) that fall under the jurisdiction of KPSC. Specific sections of this document apply to gas service. LG&E’s rates and requirements for natural gas service are documented in Louisville Gas and Electric Company Rates, Terms and Conditions for Furnishing Natural Gas Service. This document sets out specific rates and requirements for natural gas service provided by LG&E within the defined LG&E service territory.
1.3.2
National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI-NFPA 54) NFPA 54 - National Fuel Gas Code covers, in general, the design, alteration, modification, construction, maintenance and testing of utilization (i.e., non-utility) house line piping. The National Fuel Gas Code generally covers all aspects of natural gas piping beyond the outlet of the meter. (National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169.)
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1.3.3
Kentucky Building Code Kentucky Building Code establishes rules that are intended to establish a uniform building code in the State of Kentucky (Department of Housing, Buildings and Construction, 1047 US HWY 127 South, Bay 1, Frankfort, KY 40601-7811, web site: http://www.state.ky.us/agencies/cppr/dhbc).
1.4
Service Area
LG&E provides retail gas service in the Louisville metro area and sixteen surrounding counties. The Operations Centers that are responsible for this area are shown below on the system map with the corresponding zip codes serviced by each Operations Center.
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY AUBURNDALE OPERATIONS CENTER 40202, 40203, 40204, 40205 40208, 40210, 40211, 40212 40213, 40215, 40217, 40047 40071, 40109, 40118, 40165 40209, 40214, 40216, 40218 40219, 40221, 40225, 40228 40229, 40258, 40272, 40291
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY EAST OPERATIONS CENTER 40006, 40010, 40011, 40014 40018, 40019, 40023, 40025 40026, 40027, 40031, 40050 40055, 40056, 40057, 40059 40065, 40066, 40067, 40068 40077, 40207, 40220, 40222 40223, 40224, 40241, 40242 40243, 40245, 40299, 40206
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY BARDSTOWN OPERATIONS CENTER BARDSTOWN 40004 BUFFALO 42716 CANMER 42722 CENTER 42214 COX'S CREEK 40013 ELIZABETHTOWN 42701 HARDYVILLE 42746 HODGENVILLE 42748 HORSE CAVE 42749 LEBANON 40033 LORETTO 40037 MAGNOLIA 42757 MANTON 41648 Mt. SHERMAN 42764 NAZARETH 40048 SONORA 42776 SPRINGFIELD 40069
ZIP CODES SERVICED BY MULDRAUGH OPERATIONS CENTER BOSTON 40107 BRANDENBURG 40108 ELIZABETHTOWN 42701 FORT KNOX 40121 LACONIA, IN. 47135 LEBANON JCT. 40150 MULDRAUGH 40155 RADCLIFF 40160 RINEYVILLE 40162 VINE GROVE 40175 WEST POINT 40177
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1.5
1.5.1
Definitions
Appliance (Gas Appliance) – Any device that utilizes natural gas as a fuel or raw material to produce light, heat, power, refrigeration, or air conditioning. Approved Gas Valve – A natural gas valve that meets or exceeds the minimum requirements of applicable federal, state, and local codes and regulations. BTU – British Thermal Unit. A measure of heat energy. One BTU is the quantity of heat that will raise the temperature of one pound of distilled water by one degree Fahrenheit (1oF) at 70 degrees Fahrenheit (70oF). BTUH Input Rating – The heat energy input, in terms of BTU per hour, required to properly operate a gas-burning appliance. The amount of natural gas needed to operate the appliance is determined by the BTU input rating. One standard cubic foot of natural gas will produce slightly over 1,000 BTUs in normal efficient combustion. Cathodically Protected Piping – Underground coated steel piping that has cathodic protection applied to retard corrosion. The cathodic protection can be provided by the use of galvanic anodes, such as magnesium anodes. Company – When used herein, refers to Louisville Gas and Electric Company (LG&E), a wholly owned subsidiary of LG&E and KU Energy LLC. Company’s Service Connection – Piping from LG&E's gas main to a point within one foot of the Customer's property line or easement line, adjacent to the main, for the purpose of supplying gas to the Customer's service line. Corrosion Prevention – Measures taken to prevent corrosion and prolong the life of buried metallic piping, and aboveground piping exposed to weather or a corrosive environment. CSST – Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. Gas house piping systems incorporating corrugated stainless steel tubing and custom designed fittings are for use above ground only. In order to be acceptable under code requirements, each installer must be certified as trained by the agent(s) or manufacturer(s) of system(s) being used and must be trained on all installation requirements of that manufacturer.
1.5.2
1.5.3
1.5.4
1.5.5
1.5.6
1.5.7
1.5.8
1.5.9
1.5.10 CTS – Copper Tube Size. The size convention used to describe the size of polyethylene gas piping in terms of standard copper tubing. The actual outside diameter of CTS-sized tubing is one-eighth inch (0.125") larger than the nominal CTS. 1.5.11 Customer Contribution – The amount of money that the Customer has to contribute to obtain natural gas service. A Customer contribution may be required when a pipeline must be either extended or tapped to provide service to the Customer. 1.5.12 Customer Service Line – Piping installed by the Customer from LG&E's service connection to the inlet side of the gas meter. 1.5.13 Houseline – Piping installed by the Customer from the outlet of the gas meter to all appliance and equipment connections. This definition includes piping installed underground or aboveground beyond the outlet of the meter. 1.5.14 IPS – Iron Pipe Size. The size convention used to describe the size of polyethylene gas pipe in terms of nominal steel pipe of the same outside diameter. 1.5.15 Listed – Material and equipment certified to meet the quality and performance standards specified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory or quality assurance organization. 4
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
1.5.16 Low, Elevated, Medium, And High Pressure – LG&E's classifications of operating pressures in the gas mains throughout its gas system are as follows: a. Low Pressure – The system operating pressure is essentially the same as the pressure delivered to each Customer’s meter and house line (i.e., 0.25 PSIG (7 inches Water Column)). b. Elevated Pressure – LG&E’s elevated pressure systems operate at 2.0 PSIG at their sources of gas supply. A pressure regulator is required ahead of each Customer’s meter to maintain a constant standard delivery pressure of 0.25 PSIG (i.e., 4 ounces per square inch or 7 inches Water Column). c. Medium Pressure – LG&E’s medium pressure systems operate at pressures higher than 2.0 PSIG up to 60 PSIG. LG&E has several medium pressure systems operating at different pressures. A pressure regulator is required ahead of each Customer’s meter to maintain a constant delivery pressure that is normally the standard 0.25 PSIG. Higher delivery pressure can be delivered to the Customer if necessary, limited by the characteristics and operating restraints for the particular medium pressure system. d. High Pressure – LG&E’s designation for high pressure includes any gas transmission system or distribution system that is subject to operation at over 60 PSIG. A pressure regulator is required ahead of each Customer’s meter to maintain a constant delivery pressure that may be the standard 0.25 PSIG or higher if necessary. 1.5.17 Main – Gas system piping located in a public highway, street, alley, or private easement that is used to distribute gas. 1.5.18 Meter Loop – Piping provided by the Customer to accommodate the installation of the gas meter(s). 1.5.19 PSIG – Pounds per Square Inch Gauge. A standard unit of measurement for describing the pressure of gas or liquid. 1.5.20 SDR – Standard Dimensional Ratio. A numerical term used to describe the wall thickness of polyethylene pipe. SDR is derived by dividing the actual outside diameter of the pipe by the wall thickness and is an indication of the strength of the pipe. 1.5.21 Service Head Adapter – A transition fitting that adapts polyethylene gas pipe to steel pipe, in a manner in which the polyethylene pipe is shielded against damage from physical force and solar radiation, with all pressure containing metallic components located above ground. 1.5.22 Standard Delivery Pressure – The gas pressure normally delivered to residential and small commercial Customers, which is approximately four ounces (4 oz) per square inch, seven inches (7”) of Water Column, or 0.25 PSIG. 1.5.23 Tamperproof Gas Valve – A gas valve in which the core cannot be easily removed, either accidentally or intentionally, with ordinary hand tools. 1.5.24 Total Connected Load – The total heat input in BTUH for all gas burning appliances and equipment installed. 1.5.25 W.C. – Water column pressure. A standard unit of measurement for describing the pressure that is expressed in terms of a water depth exerting an equivalent force. Typical gas pressure delivered to Customer's house piping is seven inches (7") W.C., which is approximately 0.25 PSIG. The loss in gas pressure that results from gas flowing through a piping system is generally expressed in inches of W.C. drop.
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NEW SERVICE INSTALLATIONS
2.1 Customer/Contractor Steps for New Service Installation
The steps involved to complete the new service process are listed below. These steps cover all Customer/contractor responsibilities from confirming gas service to requesting meter installation and/or turn-on. In addition, a brief summary of the work that LG&E will perform is also provided. Note: These steps in the new service process are applicable to connected loads that are 500,000 BTUH or less and may be performed concurrently.
QUICK STEPS
To Complete The New Service Process, A Customer Must: 2.1.1 Confirm the availability of natural gas. In addition, the availability of the required pressure and/or capacity should be verified. Note: High BTUH rating appliances, such as generators, “instant” hot water heaters, etc., may require pressures that are above LG&E’s normal delivery pressure of 4 oz. (i.e., 0.25 PSIG) and/or capacities of a typical house line or natural gas meter. Confirm any Customer contributions for pro-rata mains or main extensions, if applicable. For commercial or industrial Customers, provide customer usage and site data to LG&E’s Account Manager, if applicable. Establish an LG&E service account by contacting either the Residential Service Call Center (for residential Customers) or the Business Service Center (for commercial or industrial Customers). Sign the service contract and pay any amounts due for Customer contributions, if applicable. If a service contract is applicable, no service work can be performed by LG&E before this step is done. Convey to LG&E all necessary easements/rights-of-way, if applicable. Install all required Customer provided facilities (e.g., the customer service line) in accordance with the Customer Gas Piping Handbook. Request connection of the customer service to LG&E’s company service, if applicable. Note: This request is typically made by the installer of the customer service (e.g., plumber).
2.1.2
2.1.3
2.1.4
2.1.5
2.1.6 2.1.7
2.1.8
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2.1.1
Confirm Availability of Natural Gas and any Customer Contributions a. Connected Loads That Are 500,000 BTUH Or Less i. No Meter Exists a) Determine Availability of Natural Gas and Any Customer Contributions 1) Before installing a new gas service, residential and commercial Customers should contact a LG&E Service Representative to verify the availability of natural gas at the required pressure and capacity, and to determine if any Customer contributions are applicable. A Service Representative may be reached at (502) 627-3740. 2) Installers or Customers will be required to provide the Service Representative with their complete address including the zip code and the lot number (for new construction) and information concerning their gas loads. ii. Meter Exists If installing furnaces, generators, swimming pool heaters, or other gas appliances of a high BTUH rating to an existing gas service, residential and commercial Customers should contact the LG&E Commercial Service Designer to verify that the gas main, service line and meter have sufficient pressure and/or capacity to supply the gas load. The LG&E Commercial Service Designer may be reached at (502) 364-8275. b. Connected Load Greater Than 500,000 BTUH Special provisions apply for total connected loads of more than 500,000 BTUH served by any single meter. For service line and meter installation specifications and requirements, the LG&E Commercial Service Designer should be contacted at (502) 364-8275.
2.1.2
Confirm Customer Contribution a. No Meter Exists i. Customers must contact a LG&E Service Representative to determine if a Customer contribution is applicable. A LG&E Service Representative may be reached at (502) 627-3740. If a Customer contribution is applicable, Customer will be mailed a service contract.
ii.
b. Meter Exists For Customers with existing natural gas meters, no Customer contributions are required. 2.1.3 Provide Load and Site Data a. Residential Residential Customers do not need to provide load or site data. b. Commercial i. No Meter Exists a) Commercial Customers should be prepared to provide the information listed below. This step is not applicable to residential Customers.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Load data information (i.e., BTUs) must be provided on LG&E’s Gas Load Data Submittal Sheet. A copy of the gas data submittal sheet can be found in Section 10, Supplemental Information. Two copies of the site plan b) The completed Gas Load Data Submittal Sheet and the site plan should be sent to the appropriate Operations Center to the attention of “Account Manager.” Refer to Operations Center By Zip Codes in Section 1, General Information, for the Operations Center that is responsible for your geographic area. For Bardstown and Muldraugh Operations Centers, the information should be sent to the Auburndale Operations Center. Account Manager – Auburndale Operations Center Louisville Gas & Electric Company Auburndale Operations Center 6900 Enterprise Drive Louisville, Kentucky 40214 Account Manager – East Operations Center Louisville Gas & Electric Company East Operations Center 10300 Ballardsville Road Louisville, Kentucky 40241 c) Once the information is received, the Customer will receive a service contract. ii. No Meter Exists Commercial Customers who have existing meters do not need to provide load or site data. 2.1.4 Make Request for Service a. The Customer must contact LG&E and make a request for service. LG&E cannot begin the process of arranging for service until the application for service has been completed. i. For residential Customers, the request for service may be made: on-line at www.lge-ku.com by telephone through the Residential Service Call Center. The Residential Service Call Center is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. They may be reached at (502) 589-1444, or toll free at (800) 331-7370 from outside of the Louisville local calling area.
ii.
For commercial Customers, the request for service may be made: on-line at www.lge-ku.com by telephone through the Business Service Center. The Business Service Center is available Monday through Friday, 7:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. They may be reached at (502) 627-3313, or toll free at (800) 331-7370 from outside of the Louisville local calling area.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
b. At the time of the request for service, the Customer should be prepared to provide the information listed below. i. No Meter Exists Requests for service should be made as far in advance of the required date of service as possible to avoid unnecessary delays in receiving service. LG&E requires sufficient time to design, plan and install the necessary natural gas facilities for new services. Additional time will be required if LG&E must extend or enhance facilities to provide service. a) Residential Customers Name(s) on the account Social Security Number(s). If other responsible parties, such as a spouse/roommate, are included on the account, their social security numbers need to be included. Service address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, house number, lot number, zip code, etc.). If the service is for a home and the home will be constructed in a subdivision, subdivision name and lot number will also need to be provided Billing Address (if different from Service Address) Daytime Contact Telephone Number Evening Contact Telephone Number Date Requesting Service Employer Name Employer Street Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, zip code, etc.) Work Telephone Number b) Commercial Customers Request for service should be made as far in advance of the required date of service as possible to avoid unnecessary delays in receiving service. LG&E will require sufficient time to design, plan and install the necessary natural gas facilities for new services. Additional time will be required if LG&E must extend or enhance facilities to provide service. Name of Business as listed with Secretary of State of Kentucky (if incorporated, limited liability or partnership) Service Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, lot number, unit, apartment, suite, zip code, etc.). Federal Tax ID Type of Service (Gas, Electric, etc.) Square Footage of Building Type of Business Name of Requestor Title of Requestor Requestor E-Mail Address (required for on-line submission) Telephone Number of Requestor Telephone Number of Business Mailing Address for Bills (if different than service address)
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Special Notes: If electric service is also required, it will be necessary to request electric service at the same time the request for natural gas service is made. The submission of a request for service constitutes the Customer’s permission for LG&E to conduct a credit history check. For all new commercial accounts, a deposit is required that is equal to 2/12 (two twelfths, or two months) of the projected annual bill. Meter Exists a) Residential Customers Name(s) on the account Social Security Number(s). If other responsible parties, such as a spouse/roommate, are included on the account, their social security numbers need to be included. Service address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, house number, zip code, etc.). Billing Address (if different from Service Address) Daytime Contact Telephone Number Evening Contact Telephone Number Date Requesting Service Employer Name Employer Street Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, zip code, etc.). Work Telephone Number Special Notes: The submission of a request for service constitutes the Customer’s permission for LG&E to conduct a credit history check. b) Commercial Customers Name of Business as listed with Secretary of State of Kentucky (if incorporated, limited liability or partnership) Service Address. Please provide ALL available information (street name, lot number, unit, apartment, suite, zip code, etc.). Federal Tax ID Type of Service (Electric, Gas, etc.) Name of Requestor Title of Requestor Requestor E-Mail Address (required for on-line submission) Telephone Number of Requestor Telephone Number of Business Mailing Address for bills (if different than service address) Special Notes: The submission of a request for service constitutes the Customer’s permission for LG&E to conduct a credit history check. For all new commercial accounts, a deposit is required that is equal to 2/12 (two twelfths, or two months) of the projected annual bill.
ii.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
c.
At the time the request for service is made, the Customer will be given an account and/or order number. This information should be retained for the purpose of tracking the progress of the service request. In addition, the Customer will be sent an informational package.
2.1.5
Sign Service Contract a. No Meter Exists Customers who received a service contract because they own a Customer contribution must sign a service contract and pay any amounts noted in the Customer contributions area of the contract. b. Meter Exists Service contract is not required.
2.1.6
Convey to LG&E All Necessary Easements/Rights-of-Way a. No Meter Exists i. For LG&E to place facilities and provide service, the Customer must convey to LG&E all necessary easements/rights-of-way on the Customer‘s property. Any rights-of-way needed from other property owners will be obtained by Customer.
ii.
b. Meter Exists Easements/right-of-ways are not required. 2.1.7 Install Customer Provided Facilities a. No Meter Exists i. Residential and commercial Customers will need to install Customer provided facilities (e.g., service line, meter loop and house line piping). Customers are responsible for any necessary maintenance of these facilities.
ii.
b. Meter Exists i. If the Customer service line, meter loop or house line piping is not adequate because of the installation of a high BTUH rating appliance (e.g., generators, swimming pool heaters, etc.), Customer will need to install the appropriate facility. Customers are responsible for any necessary maintenance of these facilities.
ii. 2.1.8
Request for Meter Installation and/or Turn-On a. To qualify for connection of the Customer service to LG&E’s Company service, the following items must be completed: i. A request for service must be established through either the Residential Service Call Center or Business Service Centers. All Customer-provided facilities must be installed.
ii.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
iii.
The house line system must be extended to an operable natural gas burning appliance(s) or to a plugged valve(s) at the proposed appliance(s) locations. For a service line supplying gas to multiple meters, the inlet side to all proposed meter loops must be completed and the house line from at least one meter must be connected to an operable appliance or to plugged valves at the proposed appliance locations.
iv.
b. To have the Customer service connected to LG&E’s Company service, a written request should be faxed to LG&E at (502) 333-1823. The form for the request is included in Section 10 – Supplemental Information. Note: Installers or Customers will be required to provide the Customer account number for each address.
2.2
2.2.1
LG&E Steps
Request for Service a. No Meter Exists i. After a request for service has been made, LG&E will perform the following: a) LG&E will send out an informational package. b) LG&E will send out a service contract for Customers who own a Customer contribution. For commercial Customers, the service contract will be sent out after the LG&E receives the load and site data. ii. After the signed service contract is received, LG&E will perform the following: a) LG&E will obtain all necessary permits from public entities for the installation of LG&E facilities in public rights-of-way. LG&E will also obtain all work permits required to perform work in public rights-of-way associated with providing service to the Customer. b) LG&E will obtain all necessary easements required from other property owners, if applicable. c) LG&E will install the Company service line. b. Meter Exists i. ii. After a request for service has been made, LG&E will send out an informational package. After the signed service contract is received, LG&E will install the Company service line.
2.2.2
Request Connection of the Customer Service to LG&E’s Company Service a. After a request for meter installation and turn-on has been made, LG&E will perform the following: i. No Meter Exists a) LG&E will visually inspect the Customer service line and meter loop to ensure compliance with applicable material and installation specifications. b) LG&E will pressure test the service line and meter loop for leaks. c) LG&E will visually inspect the house line piping, to the extent accessible, for safe installation. d) LG&E will pressure test the house line piping for leaks. If the connection to the existing house piping system is made prior to LG&E’s inspection and pressure test of the new installation, the entire house line piping system shall be subject to a pressure test prior to reactivation. 13
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
e) LG&E will visually check appliances that are in place for apparent proper installation and venting. To check appliances, LG&E will need access to the premises. f) If the inspections performed by LG&E are satisfactory, the Customer’s service line will be connected to the Company’s service line and the meter will be placed. Gas will not be turned on to a house piping system believed to be unsafe or leaking.
ii.
Meter Exists a) LG&E will pressure test the house line piping for leaks. If the connection to the existing house piping system is made prior to LG&E’s inspection and pressure test of the new installation, the entire house line piping system shall be subject to a pressure test prior to reactivation. b) LG&E will visually check appliances that are in place for apparent proper installation and venting. To check appliances, LG&E will need access to the premises. c) If the inspections performed by LG&E are satisfactory, the gas service will be activated. Gas will not be turned on to a house piping system believed to be unsafe or leaking.
2.3
Service Requirements, Restrictions and Limitations
Certain restrictions and limitations apply for establishing and maintaining natural gas service. Below is a partial list of some of these restrictions and limitations.
2.3.1
Contract Acceptance and Terms a. LG&E has the right to reject, for valid reasons, any application or contract for service. b. Applications for natural gas service are not transferable, and new occupants of the premises are required to make application for service before service is provided. Customers who have been receiving natural gas service must notify LG&E when they wish to discontinue service and are responsible for paying for all natural gas service furnished until the time a request to discontinue service has been made and the final meter reading has occurred. c. LG&E may require a minimum cash deposit or other guarantee to secure payment of bills. Service may be refused or discontinued for failure to pay the required deposit. For more information regarding LG&E’s deposit policy, contact the “Residential Service Call Center.”
2.3.2
Use of Service Restrictions a. Customers are prohibited from using natural gas service for purposes other than those set forth in the Customer's application or contract. b. Natural gas furnished under LG&E's standard application or contract is for the use of the Customer only. No Customer shall resell such energy to any other person, firm, or corporation without the written consent of LG&E and approval of the KPSC.
2.3.3
Refusal or Discontinuance of Service a. In accordance with and subject to the rules and regulations of the KPSC, LG&E retains the right to refuse or discontinue service to an applicant or Customer under certain conditions. LG&E will charge the Customer for disconnections and reconnections of natural gas service resulting from non-payment of bills, unsafe conditions or for violations of the Company’s rules and regulations. Refusal or discontinuance of service with or without notice, and without liability, can occur under various other circumstances. These conditions are set forth in LG&E’s Tariffs filed with the KPSC and the rules and regulations of the commission. 14
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b. Since it is LG&E’s obligation to provide safe and satisfactory service to all Customers, LG&E reserves the right to refuse or to discontinue service without notice if, in the opinion of LG&E, the Customer’s piping, equipment or appliances are unsafe or unsuitable for receiving natural gas service or are harmful to the service of other Customers. LG&E will make a reasonable effort to notify the Customer prior to disconnection and shall inform the Customer of the steps which must be taken to have service restored. 2.3.4 Service and Liability Limitations a. LG&E is not liable for any injury or damage to persons or property resulting from the presence, use or abuse of natural gas on the Customer's premises. LG&E shall be held harmless for any injury or damage to persons or property resulting from defects in Customer piping, equipment, apparatus, or appliances, or resulting from any cause whatsoever other than the negligence of LG&E. b. LG&E will exercise reasonable care and diligence in an endeavor to supply service continuously and without interruption, but does not guarantee continuous service. It is the responsibility of the Customer, when deemed necessary or desirable, to install any equipment necessary to protect the facilities against disruptions in service.
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SERVICE LINE INSTALLATIONS AND REPLACEMENTS
3.1
3.1.1
Service Line Locations Requirements
Location Within Property or Right-of-Way a. Each Customer gas service line must be located within the property being served, or within a recorded easement or common space in which the rights to install, maintain, and operate the service line have been legally granted. b. To the greatest extent practical, a minimum of one foot (1’) horizontal distance should be maintained between the gas service line and the edge of the property line. Note: In this case, the gas service line and the property line are parallel to each other.
3.1.2
Under Buildings a. New or replacement gas service lines shall not be installed under buildings unless unavoidable, in the sole judgment of LG&E, and approved by LG&E. Buildings or other major structures, such as in-ground swimming pools, porches, storage sheds, etc., shall not be constructed over existing service lines unless unavoidable and approved by LG&E. b. If unavoidable, in the sole judgment of LG&E and approved by LG&E, the service line may be installed. However, the service line must be encased in a gas tight conduit. The conduit must be vented to open air outside of the building. The Gas Operations Center in your area must be consulted for specific requirements.
3.2
3.2.1
Service Line Connection Requirements
General LG&E shall not be obligated to make service connections or to extend its gas main in cases where such extensions or connections, in the sole judgment of LG&E, would be infeasible, impractical, or contrary to good operating practice.
3.2.2
Point of Termination a. New Service Lines i. Check with the Gas Operations Center in your area to determine if a Company service connection already exists, or if special requirements exist for the address being served. When a Company service connection already exists, the Customer service line shall be run to at least one foot beyond the property line or easement line at that location. Customer is responsible for a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line regardless of installation method (trench, plow, directional drill, etc).
ii.
iii. When the Company service connection does not exist, the Customer service line shall extend at least one foot beyond the property line or easement line of the right-of-way in which the gas main is located unless otherwise approved or directed by LG&E. The point of termination must allow access for connection of the Company service line to the main. Locations near driveway aprons, large trees, catch basins, manholes, or other structures must be avoided. Refer to Drawing No. GSC 20-10-001, Acceptable Service Lines Locations. iv. When joint trenching construction has been used for installation of the gas mains and Company service lines, the Customer service line may be required to extend to a remote location to meet the Company service connection.
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b. Replacement Service Lines The Customer service line must extend at least one foot (1’) beyond the property line or easement line at the same location as the service line being replaced unless otherwise approved or directed by LG&E. Customer is responsible for a two foot by four foot (2’ x 4’) excavation hole at the property line regardless of installation method (trench, plow, directional drill, etc). 3.2.3 Utility Clearance For the service connections at the property or easement line, a minimum of three feet (3’) horizontal separation is recommended between gas service lines and other utility service connections. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-10-001, Acceptable Service Line Locations.
3.3
Clarification of Service Line Installation or Replacement Requirements
For clarification of service line installation or replacement requirements, the Gas Operations Center serving your geographic area should be consulted. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers.
3.4
3.4.1
Pressure System Requirements for Service Lines
High Pressure Systems (i.e., Pressure Systems greater than 60 psig) a. Polyethylene pipe may be used for service lines being supplied by high pressure gas mains if a first stage regulator, that reduces the pressure to 60 psig or less, is installed at the property line or easement line. b. Steel pipe must be used for service lines being supplied by high pressure gas mains if a first stage regulator is not installed,
3.4.2
Medium, Elevated or Low Pressure Systems (i.e., Pressure Systems less or equal to 60 psig) All new and replacement service lines being supplied by low, elevated, and medium pressure gas mains shall be constructed with polyethylene (PE) pipe that is approved by LG&E.
3.5
3.5.1
Steel Service Line Requirements
All steel pipe joints shall be welded. All welding must be performed by a qualified welder using qualified welding procedures in accordance with the requirements of API Standard 1104, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section IX, or 49 CFR Part 192 Appendix C. All buried steel pipe shall be mill coated and cathodically protected. For the specific requirements and specifications for the installation of mill coated steel gas service lines, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers.
3.5.2 3.5.3
3.6
3.6.1
Polyethylene Service Line Requirements
Material Specifications a. All polyethylene pipe used for gas service lines must conform to specification ASTM D2513, "Specifications for Thermoplastic Gas Pressure Pipe, Tubing and Fittings.” b. The polyethylene pipe must be marked at intervals not exceeding two feet (2’) showing the manufacturer or trade name, size, wall thickness or SDR number, PE type, batch identification, and ASTM D2513 compliance. 18
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c.
The polyethylene pipe may be grade PE2406 or PE3408 with designation CD, CE, CDC, or CEC. PE2406 grade (medium density) must be yellow.
d. The following sizes are approved for polyethylene (PE) gas service line use: Nominal Standard Polyethylene Pipe Dimensional Size Outside Diameter Wall Thickness Ratio Rating ½ " CTS* 0.625 .090 W.T. SDR 7.0 ½” IPS 0.840" O.D. .090" W.T. SDR 9.3 1" CTS 1.125" O.D .099" to .101" W.T. SDR 11.4 1-1/4" IPS 1.660" O.D. .166" W.T. SDR 10 2" IPS 2.375" O.D. .216" W.T. SDR 11.0 3" IPS 3.500" O.D. .307" W.T. SDR 11.5 4" IPS 4.500" O.D .395" W.T. SDR 11. 6" IPS 6.625" O.D. .576" W.T. SDR 11.5 or 6" IPS 6.625" O.D. .491” W.T. SDR 13.5 * ½” CTS may only be used when inserting through existing ¾” steel service lines, see 3.9.4. e. Pipe types, grades and sizes other than listed above are subject to approval by LG&E prior to installation. Additional types or grades may be subsequently approved as polyethylene pipe technology advances. 3.6.2 Pressure Testing a. All polyethylene service lines shall be pressure tested at 100 psig with air or inert gas as the test medium to prove the structural integrity and absence of leaks. b. To facilitate pressure testing, two inch (2") IPS and smaller polyethylene service lines should be brought above grade and tied to a stake or other object at the property line or easement line. The end should be capped in a watertight manner to prevent entry of rain, dirt, or insects. c. Service lines larger than two inch (2") IPS shall be terminated at the property line or easement line in accordance with the specific requirements stated by the Gas Operations Center in your area.
3.6.3
Bending Radius Sharp bends in polyethylene gas piping should be avoided. For permanent installations, the bending radius should exceed 20 times the outside diameter of the polyethylene pipe as follows: Actual O.D. 0.625 0.840" 1.125" 1.660" 2.375" Minimum Radius 18” 18" 24" 36" 48"
Nominal Size ½” ½” 1" 1-1/4" 2" 3.6.4 CTS IPS CTS IPS IPS
Handling Polyethylene Pipe a. Care must be used at all times when handling and storing polyethylene gas pipe. b. Contact with sharp edges, kinking, and exposure to extreme heat or petroleum solvents must be avoided. c. Pipe with surface cuts or gouges of 10% or more of the wall thickness, pipe that has been kinked, or pipe that has been exposed to extreme heat or petroleum solvents may not be used. 19
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3.7
3.7.1
Service Line Size
Each gas service line must be of sufficient size to meet the maximum usage demand determined by adding the BTUH input of all connected appliances or equipment subject to simultaneous operation. The service line size required is dependent upon the operating pressure of the system to which it is connected, the length, as well as the maximum usage demand. Allowance should be made for future installation of additional appliances if applicable. The correct service line size may be determined from the service line capacity charts in Tables 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3. If any doubt exists concerning the gas main pressure classification for an address being served, or if any uncertainty exists concerning the service line size, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be contacted. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers.
3.7.2
TABLE 3.1 LOW PRESSURE SERVICE LINE CAPACITY (Thousand BTUH based on 0.5” W.C. pressure drop)
LENGTH
NOMINAL POLYETHYLENE PIPE SIZE
Feet 25 30 35 40 45 50 60 70 80 90 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1,000
1” CTS 321 289 264 244 228 215 193 176 163 152 143 111 96 83 67 56 48 42 37 34
1-1/4” IPS 855 770 705 653 610 574 517 473 438 409 385 257 203 177 166 158 151 143 137 130
2” IPS 2,396 2,161 1,980 1,835 1,716 1,616 1,457 1,334 1,236 1,156 1,088 730 578 489 429 386 352 326 304 286
3” IPS 6,721 6,067 5,563 5,160 4,829 4,550 4,105 3,763 3,489 3,264 3,074 2,072 1,643 1,393 1,225 1,103 1,009 934 873 821
4” IPS 13,630 12,310 11,290 10,480 9,811 9,248 8,348 7,656 7,101 6,646 6,263 4,232 3,361 2,853 2,512 2,263 2,072 1,919 1,793 1,688
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TABLE 3.2 ELEVATED PRESSURE SERVICE LINE CAPACITY (Thousand BTUH based on 4” W.C. pressure drop)
LENGTH Feet 25 50 75 100 125 150 200 250 300 350 400 500 600 700 800 1,000 1,200 1,400 1,600 1,800 2,000 1” CTS 1,075 725 575 488 429 387 328 288 259 237 219 192 173 158 146 128 122 117 112 108 105
NOMINAL POLYETHYLENE PIPE SIZE 1-1/4” IPS 2,830 1,916 1,524 1,294 1,140 1,028 872 768 692 633 586 515 464 424 393 345 310 284 262 245 230 2” IPS 7,848 5,331 4,248 3,614 3,187 2,876 2,444 2,154 1,942 1,779 1,649 1,452 1,309 1,198 1,110 977 880 805 745 696 655 3” IPS 21,810 14,860 11,860 10,100 8,919 8,054 6,855 6,048 5,459 5,005 4,642 4,092 3,692 3,383 3,136 2,763 2,491 2,282 2,114 1,977 1,861 4” IPS 43,980 30,010 23,980 20,440 18,060 16,320 13,900 12,270 11,080 10,170 9,433 8,322 7,512 6,887 6,388 5,633 5,081 4,657 4,317 4,038 3,804
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TABLE 3.3 MEDIUM PRESSURE SERVICE LINE CAPACITY (Thousand BTUH based on difference of absolute pressure squared = 100)
LENGTH
NOMINAL POLYETHYLENE PIPE SIZE
Feet 100 150 200 250 300 400 500 600 700 800 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000
½” CTS 353 281 240 212 191 163 144 130 120 111 98 78 67 59 53
½” IPS 1,135 903 768 677 611 519 457 412 377 349 307 243 206 181 163
1” CTS 2,825 2,253 1,918 1,692 1,527 1,299 1,145 1,033 947 878 773 614 521 458 412
1-1/4” IPS 7,382 5,898 5,027 4,440 4,011 3,415 3,014 2,721 2,496 2,315 2,042 1,624 1,380 1,216 1,096
2” IPS 20,330 16,270 13,880 12,270 11,090 9,458 8,355 7,549 6,928 6,431 5,677 4,524 3,850 3,396 3,064
Note: The medium pressure service line capacities shown in Table 3.3 are conservative and may be used without exception on any service supplied from an LG&E medium pressure gas system. In some cases, a greater capacity will result from a higher system operating pressure. If additional capacity is needed to utilize an existing medium pressure service line, or to enable insertion through an existing steel service, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted.
3.8
3.8.1
Service Line Protection
Creek Crossings and Drainage Ditches Service lines crossing creeks or drainage ditches must be adequately protected against damage that may result from erosion or dredging. For creeks and ditches in which water is normally present or flowing, the service line must be encased in a steel pipe or otherwise protected in accordance with a method acceptable and approved by LG&E.
3.8.2
Ends of Steel Casing a. Each point in which pipe enters or leaves a steel casing pipe must be properly prepared and protected from damage resulting from contact with sharp metal edges and from sheering forces from ground settlement. b. The inside of the steel casing must be reamed or filed to remove burrs and to provide a beveled or rounded edge, and a protective insert bushing must be in place during and after the insertion operation. 22
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3.8.3
A rigid plastic sleeve at least 12 inches (12”) long must be centered over the entry or exit point. A split two (2) piece insert shall not be used, and the protective sleeve should be the smallest standard size that will fit over the steel casing pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-004, Detail Insert Protector & Sleeve for Polyethylene Insertion.
3.9
3.9.1
Installation Methods/Requirements for Service Lines
General a. Call Before You Dig (BUD) i. At least two business days prior to starting excavation activities, Kentucky Dig Safely, also known as “BUD,” should be called to locate all underground utilities (electric, gas/oil/steam, water, cable, communication, and sewer) in the area of the proposed excavation. The Louisville telephone number for Kentucky Dig Safely is (502) 266-5123. From outside the Louisville local area, Kentucky Dig Safely can be reached toll free at (800) 752-6007.
ii.
iii. There is no charge to the Customer or contractor for calling Kentucky Dig Safety or for the locating services that are normally provided. b. Utility Clearance To the greatest extent practical, a minimum clearance of one foot (1’) horizontal distance should be maintained between the gas service and underground structures, water service lines, electric service lines, telephone lines, and cable television service lines. However, a minimum of three feet (3’) horizontal clearance is recommended between gas service lines and underground gasoline or fuel oil storage tanks, underground sewer lines, septic tanks, or lateral fields. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 2010-001, Acceptable Service Line Locations. c. Depth of Cover Service lines must have at least 18 inches (18”) of cover, except where prevented by solid or consolidated rock. In case of rock, or other obstructions, service lines shall be as deep as practical, but with not less than 12 inches (12”) of cover. However, if solid rock prevents installation with 12 inches (12”) cover, a minimum of nine inches (9”) will be allowed providing that the service line is installed inside a rigid plastic or steel casing with the top of the casing below the surface of the rock. Refer to Drawing No. GSC 20-20-002, Installation of Gas Service Line in Shallow Rock. 3.9.2 Direct Burial a. Backfill and Trench Bottom Requirements i. Special care must be exercised to assure that all soil in contact with the gas pipe is free from rocks, bricks, nails, building materials, etc., that may damage the pipe surface. If necessary, a sand or sifted soil cushion at least six inches (6”) thick may be required above and below the pipe. Backfill material containing the above-mentioned foreign materials may not be used. As with any underground pipe, backfill shall be carefully replaced in several well compacted layers. Special attention shall be paid to the area around the polyethylene pipe at the meter riser to avoid straining the meter loop brackets and service head adapter if used. If good backfill material is unavailable, it is permissible to encase the polyethylene service line in a rigid plastic or steel pipe of a larger size.
ii.
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iii. The trench bottom for gas service lines installed by direct burial must be smooth and free of abrupt changes in elevation. The soil in the trench bottom must be free of sharp rock or foreign material that may damage the pipe. If rock is encountered, a minimum of six inches (6”) of sand or sifted soil cushion must be placed below the pipe. iv. As an alternative to sand or sifted soil cushion, a steel pipe, PVC pipe, or other rigid plastic pipe may be installed on the ditch bottom to use as a protective sleeve for insertion. b. Utility Clearance If a gas service line is installed in the same ditch with other utilities or underground facilities, a minimum of one foot (1’) horizontal clearance shall be maintained and the gas service line must be supported on well compacted soil. If conditions or situations prevent meeting these requirements, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted. The requirements of this article do not preclude participation in joint trenching projects. However, a detailed plan must be submitted to LG&E for approval prior to the installation. 3.9.3 Trenchless Technology a. Installation of service lines by plowing, horizontal drilling or other trenchless technology is subject to the approval of LG&E in advance. In order to achieve approval for horizontal drilling, an operating plan must be presented and observation of an installation by a LG&E inspector may be required. b. The plan must address the following items: i. Minimum qualifications of the lead person, performing the installation. Note: The lead person must be on the job site while the work is being performed. Requirement to notify Kentucky Dig Safely at least two business days prior to starting construction, as well as all other reasonable precautions to avoid interference with sewers, drains, and other buried facilities.
ii.
iii. Requirement not to damage other underground utilities. To meet this requirement, test holes should be dug by hand over locations where the proposed service line will cross the existing underground utilities. The test holes should be dug to a depth that equals or exceeds the depth of the proposed service line. iv. Description of soil types and conditions acceptable and unacceptable for the installation method described. v. If polyethylene pipe is used, provision for limiting tensile stress on the polyethylene pipe to a level not damaging to the pipe.
vi. Quality control program to ensure that soil and installation conditions are proper and that proper depth of burial has been attained. vii. Criteria for the inspection of the leading pipe to assure that it had not been damaged by tension or abrasion. Visual inspection and dimensional testing with a cold ring clamp is suggested.
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3.9.4
Insertion a. Existing steel service lines may be renewed by insertion with a smaller size polyethylene service line, provided that the reduced size will carry sufficient capacity to meet present and anticipated future demand in accordance with Tables 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3, and provided that the length, load and pressure restrictions are met. One and a quarter inch (1-1/4") steel pipe (1.66" O.D.) may be inserted with up to one inch (1") CTS (1.125" O.D.) polyethylene pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-003, Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion. One inch (1") steel pipe (1.315" O.D.) may be inserted with up to half inch (1/2") IPS (.840" O.D.) polyethylene pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-003, Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion. Three-quarter inch (3/4”) steel pipe (1.050” O.D.) may be inserted with up to half inch (1/2”) CTS (0.625” O.D.) polyethylene pipe. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-003, Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion.
b. The existing service line must meet minimum depth requirements and may not pass under buildings or go through other prohibited locations.
3.10
Casings
3.10.1 Installation of Casings Plowing or directional boring may be used as alternatives to direct burial for installation of casing.
3.11
Tracing Wire
3.11.1 A tracing wire consisting of stranded AWG 14 or larger insulated copper wire must be installed with each polyethylene service line from the meter riser to the property or easement line. Contact between the tracing wire and the polyethylene gas pipe is to be avoided. A clearance of three inches (3”) to six inches (6”) should be maintained. Care must be taken to avoid damage to the tracing wire during placement and compaction of backfill. 3.11.2 When inserting polyethylene pipe through an existing steel service, tracing wire must be provided between the service riser and the casing, across each gap in the casing, and from the end of the casing to the property line or easement line. The tracing wire must be electrically attached by brazing, thermite welding, or with good quality electric ground clamps to the casing pipe. Each connection between the tracing wire and casing pipe must be coated with an electrically insulating mastic intended for burial. Brazing or thermite welding must be performed before the polyethylene is inserted. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 20-20-005, Attachment of Tracing Wire. 3.11.3 As an option, the tracing wire may be inserted with the polyethylene gas pipe through an existing steel service pipe provided that proper clearance is maintained between the wire and polyethylene pipe before and after they exit the casing pipe. 3.11.4 When installing a PVC or other plastic casing pipe by trenching, plowing, or directional boring, the tracing wire must be installed outside of the casing and may be taped or otherwise secured to the outside of the casing at intervals as necessary to facilitate installation.
3.12
Branch Connections
No tees or branch connections are allowed in Customer service lines below grade. If more than one gas meter is required, all tees shall be above grade and all meters and service line interconnections shall be within plain sight at a common location.
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3.13
Service Line Inspections
3.13.1 All service line piping must be installed in accordance with the specifications provided by this handbook and shall be visually inspected and pressure tested by LG&E. 3.13.2 Service lines installed by direct burial must be visually inspected by LG&E before the areas of open excavation may be backfilled. 3.13.3 Service lines installed by trenchless technology (e.g., plowing or boring) must be visually inspected by LG&E before the areas of open excavation (including areas at the property line and the meter assembly) may be backfilled. 3.13.4 Service lines installed by insertion (i.e., in a newly installed PVC sleeve or existing steel service line) must be visually inspected by LG&E before the areas of open excavation (including areas at the property line and the meter assembly) may be backfilled. However, areas of open excavation over the PVC sleeve or existing service line may be backfilled without being inspected by LG&E.
3.14
Service Lines Per Building or Property
3.14.1 Single Family Dwellings Lots that are zoned for single family dwellings shall be entitled to one gas service line per lot. Single family dwellings include homes, manufactured homes, etc. 3.14.2 Separate Buildings on One Parcel a. Each building containing one or more complete residential dwelling or commercial business units located within a single parcel of land may be entitled to one service line. This entitlement does not apply to garages, storage sheds, or other outbuildings that serve as satellites to the principal units served. Individual units that share a common wall or are otherwise connected are to be considered collectively as one building. b. LG&E reserves the right to limit the number of service lines within a single parcel of property when necessary to ensure safe operation or when separate buildings can be properly served from a single meter location. 3.14.3 Common Building on Separately Deeded Parcels Each common building structure that contains units on separately deeded land parcels is generally entitled to a single service line per building. In the event the common building contains nine or more units, a second service line may be provided at LG&E's discretion. The second service will be located at the opposite end of the building as the first service. It is the developer, builder, or customer's responsibility to ensure easements or common ground is established through which the right to install, operate, and maintain the service line is legally granted. 3.14.4 Entitlements and Restrictions The entitlements and restrictions stated above are based upon typical residential and small commercial installations. The number of service lines allowed for large lots, farm land, industrial property, etc., will be determined by the Gas Operations Center in your area based upon the merits of each request.
3.15
Joining Requirements for Gas Service Line Piping
3.15.1 Sections of polyethylene pipe may be joined using mechanical fittings, socket fusion, butt fusion, or electrofusion. a. Mechanical fittings must be approved by LG&E, and the heat fusion of polyethylene pipe must be performed using procedures that have been approved by LG&E. 26
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b. Heat fusion joints must be made in conformance with the qualified written procedures developed for each particular brand of pipe. Use of proper tools for making heat fusion joints is essential. 3.15.2 Polyethylene and steel pipe may be joined together using mechanical fittings or transition fittings. Mechanical and transition fittings must be approved by LG&E prior to installation. 3.15.3 As much as practical, polyethylene service lines should be run in a single continuous section without joints. For coil pipe, a maximum of one (1) mechanical joint per one hundred feet (100’) of service in addition to the joint at the meter riser is recommended. For straight length pipe (i.e., usually pipe threeinch (3") IPS and larger), to the greatest extent practical, the piping should be installed using full lengths, which are typically forty feet (40’) long. 3.15.4 A minimum of three inches (3”) of slack per one hundred feet (100’) of polyethylene gas service line shall be provided to allow for thermal contraction. 3.15.5 Qualifications to Join Gas Service Line Piping a. Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations require any person that joins gas service line piping to be qualified and to use qualified written procedures. This requirement includes polyethylene to polyethylene as well as polyethylene to steel joints. b. Persons joining sections of polyethylene pipe with mechanical fittings can be qualified by an acceptable agency such as the Kentucky Gas Association or by the manufacturer of a particular fitting. c. Acceptance of qualifications to make heat fusion joints may be obtained through LG&E. For heat fusion qualifications to be accepted by LG&E, one or more sample joints must be made in the presence of an authorized LG&E inspector and must be submitted to the inspector for destructive testing.
d. LG&E will use the guidelines for acceptance or rejection of joints as set forth in the manufacturer's qualified written procedures to determine heat fusion qualifications. e. Homeowners, tenants, or others installing a polyethylene service line not for profit may be eligible to obtain a "homeowner’s" permit. This permit is issued to the person making the mechanical joint or joints in the polyethylene gas pipe following a brief training session. Contact the Gas Operations Center in your area for information regarding homeowner’s permits. This permit is not available to commercial installers.
3.16
Service Riser Requirements
3.16.1 General a. The service line riser should be plumb and meter connections should be level with the correct distance between openings. Use of excessive fittings should be avoided. b. The service riser must be securely supported using split ring clamps or substantial mounting brackets in accordance with the applicable meter loop drawing. Polyethylene pipe or flexible riser casing must not be relied upon to contribute to the support of the meter setting. c. The transition from polyethylene to steel at the service riser must be made using approved fittings in a configuration acceptable to LG&E. See Drawing Nos. GCS 30-20-004, Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene, GCS 30-20-005, Flexible Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line, GCS 30-20-006, Service Head Adapter/ Straight Pipe Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line, and GCS 30-20-007, Anodeless Riser for Large Polyethylene Gas Service Line, for typical meter riser installations. 27
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3.16.2 Service Riser Location Requirement A minimum of one foot (1’) horizontal distance shall be maintained between the service riser at its point of exit from the ground and any foundation grills or air intakes into a building. See Drawing No. GCS 30-10003, Acceptable Gas Meter Locations. 3.16.3 Service Line Valve Requirements a. Each gas service line valve must be designed and rated for an operating pressure of at least 100 psig and will be subject to the pressure test applied to the piping on which it is installed; it must withstand this test without leaking. b. Each service line valve must be tamperproof and marked with the manufacturer's name or trade name, pressure rating, and the letter "G" to designate acceptability for gas. A tamperproof valve is one in which the core cannot be easily removed, either accidentally or intentionally, with ordinary hand tools. 3.16.4 Atmospheric Corrosion Protection Service riser must be properly coated or otherwise protected from atmospheric corrosion. A good quality paint intended for exterior use on metal, applied to a properly prepared surface, may be used. 3.16.5 Piping Through Concrete, Asphalt or Masonry When a service riser or other gas piping passes through concrete or asphalt paving, a nonmetallic sleeve must be provided to separate the paving from the piping. See Drawing No. GCS 20-20-006, Gas Pipe Sleeving Through Concrete or Masonry.
3.17
Repair or Replacement Of Service Line, Meter Loop or Manifold Piping
3.17.1 Repairs on bare steel services are not permitted. Bare steel services shall be replaced with polyethylene services. 3.17.2 Existing meter loops can be repaired with similar fittings unless the service is also being replaced, in which case the meter loop (and associated manifold) must be reconstructed to the same standards as a new service installation. Regardless of repair, all valves in the meter loop should be replaced with tamperproof, lock-off valves. 3.17.3 For additional information regarding repair or replacement of an existing gas service line or houseline piping system, contact the Gas Operations Center in your geographic area. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 - Important Telephone Numbers. 3.17.4 Upon completion of a replacement service line or repair to an existing service line, a request for inspection should be made by telephone to the Gas Operations Center in your geographic area.
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GAS METER INSTALLATIONS
4.1
4.1.1
Standard Meter Capacity
To assure proper operation, each gas meter must be the proper size and type for the maximum gas demand and required pressure. The maximum gas demand is determined by adding the BTU input ratings of all gas burning devices that may possibly be operated simultaneously. Furnaces, space heaters, water heaters, boilers, pool heaters, fireplace logs, gas lights, gas clothes dryers and gas generators should be included at their maximum input ratings. Domestic kitchen ranges and outside grills may be considered to be 30,000 and 20,000 BTUH respectively as they rarely are operated at full capacity for extended periods with other appliances. A standard house meter, at a two inch (2”) W.C. differential, will properly serve a gas demand up to 175,000 BTUH (simultaneously operation) or 375,000 BTUH (diversified operation). For greater gas demands, consult the Gas Operations Center in your area to determine the correct meter size.
4.1.2
4.2
4.2.1
Acceptable Meter Locations
General a. Meters shall be located in ventilated spaces readily accessible for examination, reading, replacement, or necessary maintenance. b. Gas meters shall not block normal passage on sidewalks or block ingress or egress through doors or emergency exits. c. Gas meters shall not be placed in locations where they will be exposed to excessive dirt or corrosive materials from manufacturing processes, or beneath condensate drains or roof drains.
d. Outside gas meters shall be located at least 18 inches (18”) from any air intakes into a building, as measured from the final elbow on the service riser (refer to Drawing No. GCS 30-10-003, Acceptable Gas Meter Locations). Air intakes include dryer vents, furnace vents for intake or exhaust, windows that may be opened, ventilating fans, louvers, or foundation grills. e. Outside gas meters shall be located at least 36 inches (36”) from any likely ignition sources, as measured from the final elbow on the service riser (refer to Drawing No. GCS 30-10-004, Acceptable Gas Meter Locations). Likely ignition sources include the electric meter and meter pan, electric circuit breakers, air conditioning units, or other electric devices. f. If the separations listed in Subsection 4.2.1 d. & e. cannot be attained, the regulator vent must be piped to a location that meets the separation requirements listed above. Additional separation may be required for large volume pressure regulators with built-in internal relief devices.
4.2.2
New Service Installation Gas meters shall be located outside.
4.2.3
Existing Installations a. When it is necessary to relocate the gas meter inside a building for a replacement service line, the Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted for specific installation requirements. b. Replacement Gas meters located inside buildings or under roofs may require additional regulator/relief valve vent piping. The Gas Operations Center in your area should be consulted for specific installation requirements.
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4.3
4.3.1
Meter Accessibility
Sufficient space must be available to permit safe working conditions for LG&E personnel performing maintenance to the meter and service regulator. Gas meters should not be installed under decks, in crawl spaces, or in other areas with less than six feet (6’) of headroom. Gas meters should not be enclosed by decks, sunroofs, etc. Maximum height from the floor to the top of any meter should not exceed five feet (5’). However, an exception may be made to clear expected high water elevation in areas prone to flooding.
4.3.2
4.3.3 4.3.4
4.4
4.4.1
Multiple Meters
When two (2) or more meters are connected to the same service line, all meters and interconnections to the service line must be within plain sight at a common location and should be adjacent to the building nearest the gas main. The house line side of each meter loop in a multiple meter setting must be permanently tagged with the identity of the unit served by that meter. Multiple meter installations serving residential and small commercial Customers using standard meters are required to be constructed with prefabricated meter loop assemblies to the greatest extent practical. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-206, Typical Multiple Meter Installation Prefabricated Meter Loops, for a multiple meter installation using prefabricated meter loop assemblies.
4.4.2
4.5
4.5.1
Meter Loop Assemblies
Fabrication a. Prefabricated Meter Loop Assemblies i. Prefabricated meter loop assemblies are required for service to Customers utilizing standard meters up to 250 CFH nominal capacity (i.e., at 0.5” W.C. differential) whenever total demand and character of demand permit. For single meter installations see Drawing Nos. GCS 30-20201, 1” Prefabricated meter Loop, GCS 30-30-201, Low Pressure Meterset Assembly, GCS 3030-202, Medium Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator, and GCS 30-30203, Elevated Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator, for piping details of standard house meters using prefabricated meter assemblies. For maximum gas demand of over 300,000 BTUH served from a low pressure (i.e., 0.25 psig) system, or where a bypass operation must be performed (such as for maintenance to a meter or pressure regulator) without interruption of normal operation, the prefabricated meter loop should not be used. Refer to Section 4.2.2, Field Fabricated Meter Loops.
ii.
b. Field Fabricated Meter Loops Assemblies i. For maximum gas demand of over 300,000 BTUH served from a low pressure (i.e., 0.25 psig) system though a one inch (1”) meter, a prefabricated meter loop shall be used if external bypass is not required. If an external bypass is required, a meter loop may be fabricated from standard pipe and fittings per Drawing No. GCS 30-20-204, 1” Meter Loop Field Fabricated. For any application in which an external bypass is required, and for any application requiring a meter of 375 CFH or more nominal capacity, the meter loop assembly will need to be fabricated using standard pipe and fittings. See Drawings Nos. GCS 30-20-301, 1” Meter Loop with Bypass, and GCS 30-20-302, 1½ Meter Loop with By-pass. Drawings will be furnished for rotary meter installations and other field fabricated meter piping configurations when applicable.
ii.
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iii. Meter loops for meters of 375 CFH or larger capacity in a multiple meter setting will need to be fabricated using standard pipe and fittings. See Drawing No. GCS 30–20-001 for meter piping details for a typical multiple meter installation using standard fittings. The Company will furnish custom drawings when necessary for multiple meter installations. iv. Use of welded service manifolds is encouraged to reduce the number of threaded pipe connections. 4.5.2 Meter Loop Assemblies Material Specifications a. Only steel pipe and steel or malleable iron fittings shall be used for meter loop construction. Street elbows or close nipples shall not be used for construction of meter loops. Bushings shall not be used for size reduction on meter loop or service riser piping; however, they may be used for reduction of two or more sizes for test connections or gauge points. Unions may be used if located downstream of the master valve or manifold valve. b. Threaded pipe must be at least schedule 40 wall thickness. c. All threads on pipe and fittings holding gas pressure must be standard taper in accordance with specification ANSI/ASME B1.20.1, Standard for Pipe Threads, General Purpose.
d. Meter bars, factory made manifolds, or other special installations may be used subject to approval by LG&E. 4.5.3 Meter Loop Valve Requirements a. General i. Master valves are required for installations with two or more meters. If all meters are served from a single manifold, one valve shall be provided ahead of that manifold, preferably at the top of the service riser. See Drawing GCS 30-10-002, Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations, Figures A&B. Master valves for two or more manifolds. If meters are served from more than one manifold, a master valve is required for each manifold. See Drawing GCS 30-10-002, Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations, Figure C.
ii
iii. Bypass valves are required on meter loops one and a half inches (1-1/2”) and larger, and on some field fabricated one inch (1”) meter loops, in order to prevent major inconvenience or interruption of commercial process which would result from the shutting off of gas for meter change operations. Generally, any meter loop that has a meter with a capacity of 425,000 BTU/H or greater at one half inch (½”) water differential will have a bypass. See Drawings No. GCS 3020-301, 1” Meter Loop with By-pass, and GCS 30-20-302, 1½ Meter Loop with By-pass. b. Inlet Side (or Service Side) of Meter Loop i. Each new or reconstructed meter loop shall have an approved tamperproof gas valve of the proper size located on the inlet side of each regulator and meter. Each meter inlet valve or service side bypass valve must have a lock wing or other feature allowing the valve to be locked in the closed position. If served from a low pressure main, elevated pressure main, medium pressure main, or a high pressure main through a primary regulator, each valve must be designed and rated for an operating pressure of at least 100 psig.
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ii.
If served directly from a high pressure main without a primary regulator, typically large commercial or industrial applications, each valve in a location subject to full service line pressure must be rated at least as high as the maximum allowable operating pressure for that main. Required pressure ratings, drawings, and general specifications will be provided by the Commercial Gas Service Designer.
iii. Each approved tamperproof service line valve shall be marked to show the manufacturer’s name or trade mark, the pressure rating with the letter “G” to designate gas, and the letter “T” to designate tamperproof. iv. Master valves, as required under Sections 4.4.3 and 4.4.4, shall meet the above requirements. c. Outlet Side (or House Line Side) of Meter Loop Each valve on the house line side of a meter loop shall have a pressure rating of at least 100 psig, and shall be marked to show the manufacturer’s name or trademark and pressure rating with the letter “G” to designate gas. 4.5.4 Meter Loop Assemblies Support a. The house line or outlet side of the meter loop must be rigidly supported using split ring or equivalent clamps if vertical or horizontal piping exceeds eight inches (8”) before entering the building. b. When supplying gas to a corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) house piping system, the transition must be made at an approved termination fitting securely anchored to the outside wall. A plastic sleeve must surround the tubing if passing through concrete or masonry. A split ring clamp, or equivalent, will be required if the pipe thread size and mounting configuration of the termination fitting is not sufficient to rigidly support the meter. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-002, CSST House Piping. c. Meter loops for manufactured homes shall be rigidly anchored to a free-standing supporting structure either pre-fabricated or fabricated out of steel or other material resistant to deterioration from weather and contact with ground. Pressure treated lumber shall be allowed only for cross-members and not for support posts. If a manufactured home is subject to relocation, the meter loop location must not block its removal or replacement. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-205, Mobile Home Meter Loop, for manufactured home meter loops. If a manufactured home is permanently and rigidly anchored to a masonry foundation, the meter loop may be anchored to the foundation and the piping may be rigidly connected to the manufactured home.
4.5.5
Atmospheric Corrosion Protection Meter loop piping installed outdoors or in other locations that are subject to atmospheric corrosion must be properly coated or otherwise protected from atmospheric corrosion. A good quality paint intended for exterior use on metal, applied to a properly prepared surface, may be used.
4.6
4.6.1
Meter Protection
Barricades Gas meters located within three feet (3’) of driveways or other driving areas shall be barricaded or otherwise protected from vehicular damage. Meters located farther than three feet (3’) from driveways serving commercial or industrial operations require barricades if subject to contact by trucks, forklifts, or other mobile equipment. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 30-20-003, Meter Barricade.
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4.6.2
Meter Relocations a. When an indoor meter is being relocated to an outside location in conjunction with a service line replacement, the new house line shall be extended to the intended point of tie-in with the existing piping and capped. b. The new piping shall be rigidly anchored to allow a pressure test to be applied. c. The final connection may be made by the Customer or plumber at the time LG&E tests and activates the new service line.
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HOUSE LINE INSTALLATIONS
5.1
5.1.1
House Line Code Requirements
This handbook provides code requirements based upon the National Fuel Gas Code and good practices applicable to most residential and small commercial gas house piping installations. However, additional code requirements specific to your situation may exist or there may be exceptions applicable to your situation. Since the National Fuel Gas Code is referenced in the Kentucky Building Code for gas piping in all buildings covered by its jurisdiction, LG&E recommends that installers of gas piping obtain the latest edition of the National Fuel Gas Code and follow its provisions when installing gas house lines. The National Fuel Gas Code is listed by National Fire Prevention Bureau as NFPA-54, and by American National Standards Institute as Z223.1. It may be ordered through National Fire Prevention Bureau by telephone at 1-800-344-3555 or through their internet website at http://nfpa.org. Manufactured Homes a. Manufactured homes and other manufactured housing units that are certified by the manufacturer or authorized dealer as being piped in accordance with federal regulations (i.e., Title 24, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 3280 and 3282) will qualify for gas service without any additional modification. b. Manufactured homes or other manufactured housing units that are not certified by the manufacturer or authorized dealer as being piped in accordance with federal regulations (i.e., Title 24, Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 3280 and 3282) will not qualify for gas service unless the gas piping is installed in accordance with the local code requirements applicable to buildings with the same intended usage.
5.1.2
5.1.3
5.1.4
Aboveground Piping Installation Requirements Each aboveground portion of a gas piping system upstream from the equipment shutoff valve shall be electrically continuous to any grounding electrode as defined by NFPA 70, National Electric Code. Gas piping shall not be used as a grounding conductor or electrode.
5.1.5
Underground Piping Requirements a. Underground piping shall be installed with sufficient clearance from any other underground structure to avoid contact therewith, to allow maintenance, and to protect against damage from proximity to other structures. b. Underground piping shall be installed with at least 18 inches (18”) of cover. The cover shall be permitted to be less than 18 inches (18”) but at least 12 inches (12”) if external damage to the pipe is not likely to result. If a minimum of 12 inches (12”) of cover cannot be maintained, the pipe shall be installed in a conduit or otherwise shielded. c. The trench shall be graded so that the pipe has a firm and substantially continuous bearing on the trench bottom. The trench bottom must be free of rocks or foreign materials that may damage plastic pipe or the coating on steel pipe. The trench bottom may be padded with sand or sifted soil if necessary.
d. Backfill material shall be free of rocks or other material that may damage the pipe or coating. Sand or sifted soil may be used to pad the top and sides of the pipe if necessary. 5.1.6 In multi-metered buildings in which gas appliances are in a location remote from the area that they serve (e.g., basement or utility room), an identifying tag should be installed on the piping or valve serving each appliance. 37
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
5.1.7
It is not the responsibility of the Louisville Gas and Electric Company to assure compliance with the applicable codes pertaining to installation of house line piping, appliance installation, or appliance operation.
5.2
5.2.1
Valve Requirements
Each house line valve must be designed for natural gas service and be marked with manufacturer's name or trademark and must show visible indication of open or closed position. Each house line valve will be subject to pressure testing with the piping system and must withstand this test without leaking. Every gas outlet shall have a shutoff valve, located within the same room, and within six feet (6’) of the appliance served. Where appliances are connected with flexible connectors or semi-rigid tubing, the valves must be ahead of the appliance connector, on the steel pipe. Gas outlets in fireplaces designed to burn wood or other solid fuel shall have shutoff valves located outside of the firebox and accessible in the same room. Shutoff valves serving decorative gas appliances may be installed in fireplaces if listed for such use (by the manufacturer) and if protected from exposure to excessive heat. An exterior shutoff valve shall be provided for each structure served with gas. Multiple house lines to individual dwelling units must have shutoff valves, accessible to the tenants served, and marked with identification tags. Valves shall not be installed in concealed spaces or in spaces used for air plenums.
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.2.4 5.2.5
5.2.6
5.3
5.3.1
Pressure Regulators
Pressure regulators are required when the house line piping system operates at pressures greater than seven inches (7”) W.C. nominal pressure. Pressure regulators must be vented to the outside. The vent lines must terminate with vent screens facing down to prevent entry of insects or water.
5.3.2
5.4
5.4.1
Pipe Requirements
Steel Pipe Requirements a. Specifications i. ii. iii. iv. v. Steel pipe must comply with a listed specification, typically ASTM A53 or ASTM A106. All threads on pipe and fittings shall be tapered and conform to specification ASME B1.20.1. Pipe joint compound or tape shall be applied to the male threads only. All thread nipples (straight non-tapered threads) shall not be used. Close nipples (tapered threads not separated by a shoulder) and malleable iron bushings are not recommended. If used, malleable iron bushings should be limited to low stress applications with a reduction of two or more nominal pipe sizes.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
b. Joining i. Steel pipe and fittings may be joined by welding, threading, or bolted flanges. Compression fittings using gasket materials which are subject to failure when exposed to heat from a fire shall not be used on inside locations. Welded joints are required on steel piping systems that operate at over 5 psig inside buildings. Valves, pressure controlling devices, final connections to equipment, etc., may be flanged or threaded.
ii.
iii. Welded joints should be made using established procedures and welders qualified under specification API 1104, Standard for Welding Pipelines and Related Facilities; AWS B2.1, Standard for Welding Procedure and Performance Qualification; or the ASME Boiler and Pressure Code, Section IX. c. Prohibited Locations Steel pipe may not be buried beneath buildings, or be in contact with the ground beneath buildings, unless fully must be encased in a gas tight conduit. The Gas Operations Center in your area must be consulted for specific requirements. 5.4.2 Polyethylene (Plastic) Pipe Requirements a. Specifications i. Polyethylene pipe must comply with ASTM D-2513. The same material grades that are acceptable for service line installations are acceptable for house line piping. Polyethylene gas pipe may be used only outside of buildings and beneath the ground. An insulated copper tracing wire shall be installed adjacent to the polyethylene pipe with the ends terminating above ground at each end. Contact between the tracing wire and the polyethylene pipe should be avoided.
ii.
b. Joining i. ii. Joints may be made in polyethylene plastic using approved mechanical fittings or heat fusion. Properly trained and qualified installers should follow qualified written joining procedures.
iii. All transitions to steel pipe must be outside. Transitions may be made using service head adapters or anodeless risers in the same manner as used for service risers, or transition to mill coated and cathodically protected house lines may be made directly below ground. Refer to Drawing No. GCS 80-20-302, Polyethylene to Steel Transition for Underground House Line. c. Prohibited Locations i. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe shall not extend into a building. ii. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe may not be buried beneath buildings, or be in contact with the ground beneath buildings, unless fully must be encased in a gas tight conduit. The Gas Operations Center in your area must be consulted for specific requirements. iii. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe may not be buried beneath buildings, or be in contact with the ground beneath buildings, unless fully encased in a gas tight sleeve of protected steel pipe vented to the outside of the building. iii. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe shall only be installed outside for an underground house line application. 39
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
iv. Polyethylene (plastic) pipe shall not be installed inside to serve appliances. 5.4.3 Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST) Systems Requirements a. Specifications i. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) systems must be tested, listed, and installed in accordance with ANSI LC-1/CSA 6.26, Fuel Gas Piping Systems Using Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. CSST may be used for installation of new house line systems or for addition to existing systems.
ii.
b. Joining Only qualified installers, trained by authorized agents for the respective brands of CSST system, are allowed to install CSST piping systems. c. Connections Connection of the CSST to the meter outlet piping must be made using a suitable transition fitting supported by the outside building wall, such that the tubing is not exposed. See Drawing No. GCS 30-20-002, CSST House Piping, for a typical installation. d. Prohibited Locations CSST may not extend into the fireboxes of fireplaces designed to burn solid fuel. CSST or fittings may not be installed in any manner or locations where they will be subjected to heat from solid fuel fires. 5.4.5 5.4.4 Copper Tubing
a. Specification i. Copper tubing shall comply with standard Type K or L of ASTM B 88, Specifications for Seamless Copper Water Tube, or ASTM B280, Specification for Seamless Copper Tube for Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Field Service. Joints in copper tubing shall be made with fittings approved by the manufacturer for natural gas service or shall be brazed using materials with higher than 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit (1,000oF) melting point.
ii.
iii. The transition to copper from the steel or CSST must be made outside. The transition to copper must be preceded by a valve located outside. b. Prohibited Locations i. Copper tubing shall only be installed outside for an underground houseline application (e.g., to serve gas grills, gas lights, or other outside natural gas appliances). ii. Copper tubing shall not be installed inside to serve appliances. iii. Copper tubing shall not be used as a service line.
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
5.4
5.4.1
Inside Piping Installation Requirements
General Requirements a. All gas outlets that do not connect to appliances must be capped or plugged gas tight. b. All inside house line piping, not certified under the manufactured housing code, shall to be constructed using standard weight (i.e., schedule 40) plain or galvanized steel pipe, or an approved corrugated stainless steel system.
5.4.2
Concealed Locations a. Unions, tubing fittings, or compression fittings shall not be installed in concealed locations. b. Manifolds, valves, and pressure regulators must be installed in accessible areas and may not be concealed. c. When gas piping that is to be concealed is being installed, elbows, tees, and couplings shall be permitted. However, the number of concealed joints should be kept to a minimum. Unions, tubing fittings, right and left couplings, bushings, swing joints, and compression couplings shall not be used in concealed locations.
d. Gas piping shall not be installed in solid partitions such as concrete (e.g., floors), unless it is laid in channels that permit access to the piping with minimum damage to the building. Where piping in channels could be exposed to excessive moisture or corrosive substances, the piping shall be protected in an appropriate manner. e. Piping that is installed in a chase is not considered to be concealed. 5.4.3 Connections Vertical branch connections from horizontal house lines should be taken from the top or side only. See Drawing No. GCS 80-20-301, Vertical Branch Connection with Drip Leg. 5.4.4 Prohibited Locations Gas piping shall not be run through or inside of air ducts, clothes chutes, elevator shafts, fireplace ash dumps, chimneys, or concealed air plenums. This prohibition does not apply to air spaces used for plenums above suspended ceilings.
5.5
5.5.1
Houseline Piping Protection
Piping Through Concrete, Asphalt or Masonry a. When the house line passes through a concrete or masonry wall, a nonmetallic sleeve must be provided. In addition, the spaces between the pipe, sleeve, and masonry must be sealed to prevent entry of water or gas into the building. See Drawing No. GCS 20-20-006, Gas Pipe Sleeving Through Concrete or Masonry. b. Pipe passing through masonry walls, floors, or ceilings should be encased in a sleeve of plastic pipe. Underground piping, where installed through the outer foundation or basement wall of a building shall be encased in a protective pipe, sealed to prevent entry of gas or water.
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5.5.2
Protection from Physical Damage a. Means shall be provided to prevent excessive stressing of the piping where there is heavy vehicular traffic or soil conditions are unstable and settling of piping or foundation walls could occur. b. Any above grade copper tubing must be protected against physical damage. c. Steel pipe installed outside and aboveground must be protected against damage from anticipated forces.
5.5.3
Corrosion Control a. Steel i. Steel pipe buried beneath the ground must be effectively coated and cathodically protected to prevent corrosion. Fittings and blemishes in the coating must be wrapped with a protective tape or mastic intended for this purpose. The underground portion must be electrically insulated from nonprotected piping using dielectric couplings, dielectric unions, or flanges. Steel pipe installed outside and aboveground must be painted or otherwise coated to prevent atmospheric corrosion.
ii.
b. Copper i. If any part of the copper tubing is buried underground, a dielectric fitting must be used to electrically isolate the copper tubing from the steel or CSST house line piping. If the transition to steel is made underground, the steel pipe must be coated, cathodically protected, and electrically insulated from the houseline piping. For underground copper tubing installations, the vertical portion, from approximately six inches (6”) below grade to the transition fitting above grade, must be encased in a steel pipe or sunlight resistant plastic pipe securely mounted to the building wall. The space between the copper tube and protective sleeve shall be filled with expanding foam, or otherwise sealed at the top, to prevent entry and accumulation of rain water. Insulation must be used, if necessary, to prevent a steel casing pipe from electrically shorting the dielectric transition fitting.
ii.
5.7
5.7.1
House Line Support
Gas house line piping must be adequately supported to prevent stress on fittings, appliance connections or meter connections; and to prevent excessive vibration or movement. The maximum distances between supports are as follows: ½ inch pipe shall not exceed 6 feet, ¾ inch or 1 inch pipe shall not exceed 8 feet. 1-1/4 inch or larger pipe When oriented vertically, at least one support for each floor level When oriented horizontally, the distance between supports shall not exceed 10 feet.
5.7.2
5.7.3
All provisions for supporting and protecting CSST must be followed in accordance with manufacturers’ written procedures.
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5.8
5.8.1
Appliance Connections
Final connections to appliances must be in accordance with local building codes and are subject to variation between communities. Vertical branch connections dropping to appliances should be provided drip legs at the bottom of each drop. The drip leg may be assembled using a tee of the same size as the drop, with the side outlet serving the appliance, and a three inch (3”) or longer nipple with a cap connected into the bottom outlet of the tee. Drip legs should not be used outside or in locations subject to freezing. See Drawing No. GCS 80-20-301, Vertical Branch Connection with Drip Leg. Rigid connection with steel pipe is generally recommended for boilers, furnaces, water heaters and other stationary equipment not subject to movement or excessive vibration. Final connections to movable appliances must be made with approved flexible appliance connectors, preceded by a valve connected to the rigid piping. Flexible appliance connectors must be located entirely within the same room as the appliance and may not pass through walls, floors, or ceilings. The final connection to the appliance must be made outside of the appliance cabinet to rigid pipe.
5.8.2
5.8.3
5.8.4
5.8.5
5.9
5.9.1
Pressure Test
Prior to requesting natural gas service, house line piping systems must be pressure tested to detect the existence of leaks. For the appropriate test pressure and test duration, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area. Natural gas service will not be turned on to a house piping system believed to be unsafe or leaking.
5.9.2
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SIZING OF GAS HOUSE LINE PIPING
6.1 General
The information contained within this section is provided to assist the Customer in determining correct house line pipe sizes to assure satisfactory operation of gas appliances. This section is intended for standard 4 ounces (i.e., seven inch (7") Water Column (W.C.) or 0.25 psig) delivery pressure only. While only one method of determining adequate pipe sizes is illustrated in this Handbook, other engineering methods may be used.
6.2
Reference Sources
For systems operating at higher pressures or for other sizing methods, the NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code, BOCA National Mechanical Code, or other applicable standards should be consulted.
6.3
Pipe Sizing
a. In order to assure adequately sized house piping, LG&E recommends designing gas house line systems to operate with a pressure drop of not more than one half inch (0.5") W.C. from the meter to the last appliance at the maximum demand of all connected appliances subject to simultaneous operation. The possibility of increased gas demand, due to installation of additional appliances or due to replacement of existing appliances with higher BTUH input appliances, should be considered. Standard engineering methods, using industry accepted formulas or tables published in national codes for determining pressure drop in piping systems with natural gas of 1,000 BTU per standard cubic foot heating value and 0.6 specific gravity, may be used. b. Corrugated stainless steel tubing systems must be designed with sufficient tubing size to operate with low pressure gas, unless the availability of greater pressure is confirmed by the Gas Operations Center in your area. Delivery pressure in excess of seven inches (7") W.C. cannot be provided from low or elevated pressure gas distribution systems. The Gas Operations Center’s telephone number is listed in Section 1 – Important Telephone Numbers.
6.4
Pipe Sizing Method
The following procedure may be used to determine proper pipe size from the tables herein: Step A: Compile a list of all gas burning devices and their maximum gas consumption based upon the manufacturers’ input BTUH ratings. Convert the input rating in BTUH to CFH (cubic feet of gas per hour) by dividing by 1,000. A list of approximate gas input ratings for typical appliances is located in Table 5.4.2.1 of the NFPA 54-2006 National Fuel Gas Code. Starting with the outlet of the gas meter, make a line diagram of the piping system to each appliance connection, showing lengths in feet of each pipe segment and gas demand in cubic feet per hour for each appliance to be connected. Determine the demand to be supplied by each pipe segment by adding together the demand of each appliance served through that pipe segment. Determine the length from the gas meter to the farthest appliance connection. Select the proper pipe capacity table. Tables 6.1 and 6.2 are provided for schedule 40 metallic pipe with a three-tenths inch (0.3”) and one-half inch (0.5”) W.C. pressure drop, respectively. Table 6.3 is provided for corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) pipe with a one-half inch (0.5”) W.C. pressure drop.
Step B:
Step C:
Step D: Step E:
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
The one-half inch (0.5”) W.C. pressure drop table should be used for applications where no additional capacity is expected. The three-tenths inch (0.3”) W.C. pressure drop table should be used for applications where additional capacity is desired to provide for future expansion or installation of higher BTUH appliances. Using the appropriate capacity table, select the column showing the length determined above, or the next greater length if the exact length is not shown. Step F: For each pipe segment, find the pipe size that has a capacity equal to or greater than the demand to be carried for the design length determined above. EXAMPLE – Determining Proper Pipe Sizes For Single Family Dwelling Find the correct pipe sizes to assure proper operation of the gas appliances in a dwelling equipped with a gas burning furnace, water heater, clothes dryer, and kitchen range. There are no plans for adding additional appliances or installing high BTU appliance (e.g., “tankless” hot water heater). Step A – List the appliances with their BTUH input ratings and determine the gas demand in CFH (cubic feet per hour). To determine CFH, divide the BTUH input rating by 1,000. 120,000 BTUH - Forced Air Furnace 45,000 BTUH - Water Heater 35,000 BTUH - Clothes Dryer 60,000 BTUH - Kitchen Range 120 CFH 45 CFH 35 CFH 60 CFH*
Note: *For determining meter capacity and service line size, a value of 30 CFH may be used for domestic kitchen ranges since it is very rare for all burners to be on at full capacity simultaneously. To be consistent with applicable building codes for house piping, the listed BTUH input rating should be used for sizing house piping. Step B – Piping diagram (Not to scale)
Dryer 35 CFH E
10’
A Source (Meter)
25’
B
5’ D
10’
FRange 60 CFH
10’
Furnace 120 CFH
C 46
Water Heater CFH
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Step C - Determine demand supplied by each pipe segment Line A-B, Line B-D, Line B-C, Line D-E, Line D-F, 260 CFH 95 CFH 165 CFH 35 CFH 60 CFH
Step D - Determine the pipe distance from the meter to the farthest appliance The farthest appliance is the kitchen range at a distance of 40 feet. Therefore, use 40 feet for sizing all segments. Step E - Select the Proper Capacity Table Since no future increase in gas capacity is anticipated, Table 6.1 (0.5” W.C. pressure drop table) was used. However, if additional capacity is anticipated, Table 6.2 (0.3” W.C. pressure drop) is recommended. It provides greater reserve capacity for future or high BTU appliances. Step F - Determine minimum size for each segment of pipe Using Table 6.2 and 40 feet for each segment, determine the size of each pipe segment. Line A-B, Line B-D, Line B-C, Line D-E, Line D-F, 260 CFH, 95 CFH, 160 CFH, 35 CFH, 60 CFH, 1" Iron Pipe Size (IPS) 3/4" IPS 3/4" IPS 1/2" IPS* 1/2" IPS*
Note: *Pipe sizes smaller than 1/2" IPS are generally not recommended for permanent house line piping inside buildings.
Table 6.1 – Capacity of Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe, Standard Cubic Feet per Hour
Inlet Pressure: 0.5 psig or Less Pressure Drop: 0.3 Inches Water Column (W.C.) Specific Gravity: 0.60 Nom. Size (In.)
1/4 3/8 ½ ¾ 1 1¼ 1½ 2 2½ 3 4
Equivalent Length of Pipe (Feet)
10 32 72 132 278 520 1,050 1,600 3,050 4,800 8,500 17,500 20 22 49 92 190 350 730 1,100 2,100 3,300 5,900 12,000 30 18 40 73 152 285 590 890 1,650 2,700 4,700 9,700 40 15 34 63 130 245 500 760 1,450 2,300 4,100 8,300 50 14 30 56 115 215 440 670 1,270 2,000 3,600 7,400 60 12 27 50 105 195 400 610 1,150 1,850 3,250 6,800 70 11 25 46 96 180 370 560 1,050 1,700 3,000 6,200 80 11 23 43 90 170 350 530 990 1,600 2,800 5,800 90 10 22 40 84 160 320 490 930 1,500 2,600 5,400 100 9 21 38 79 150 305 460 870 1,400 2,500 5,100 125 8 18 34 72 130 275 410 780 1,250 2,200 4,500 150 8 17 31 64 120 250 380 710 1,130 2,000 4,100 175 7 15 28 59 110 225 350 650 1,050 1,850 3,800 200 6 14 26 55 100 210 320 610 980 1,700 3,500
Note: Table 6.1 should be used for applications where additional capacity is expected. It provides for future expansion or installation of higher BTUH appliances. 47
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Table 6.2 – Capacity of Schedule 40 Metallic Pipe, Standard Cubic Feet per Hour
Inlet Pressure: 0.5 psig or less Pressure Drop: 0.5 Inches Water Column (W.C.) Specific Gravity: 0.60 Equivalent Length of Pipe (Feet)
10 43 95 175 360 680 1,400 2,100 3,950 6,300 11,000 23,000 20 29 65 120 250 465 950 1,460 2,750 4,350 7,700 15,800 30 24 52 97 200 375 770 1,180 2,200 3,520 6,250 12,800 40 20 45 82 170 320 660 990 1,900 3,000 5,300 10,900 50 18 40 73 151 285 580 900 1,680 2,650 4,750 9,700 60 16 36 66 138 260 530 810 1,520 2,400 4,300 8,800 70 15 33 61 125 240 490 750 1,400 2,250 3,900 8,100 80 14 31 57 118 220 460 690 1,300 2,050 3,700 7,500 90 13 29 53 110 205 430 650 1,220 1,950 3,450 7,200 100 12 27 50 103 195 00 620 1,150 1,850 3,250 6,700 125 11 24 44 93 175 360 550 1,020 1,650 2,950 6,000 150 10 22 40 84 160 325 500 950 1,500 2,650 5,500 175 9 20 37 77 145 300 460 850 1,370 2,450 5,000 200 8 19 35 72 135 280 430 800 1,280 2,280 4,600
Nom. Size (In.)
¼ 3/8 ½ ¾ 1 1¼ 1½ 2 2½ 3 4
Note: Table 6.2 should be used for applications where no additional capacity is expected. It does not provide for future expansion or installation of higher BTUH appliances.
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Table 6.3 – Capacity of Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing (CSST), Standard Cubic Feet per Hour
Inlet Pressure: 0.5 psig or less Pressure Drop: 0.5 Inches Water Column (W.C.) Specific Gravity: 0.60 Equivalent Length of Pipe (Feet)
5 46 63 115 134 225 270 471 546 895 1,790 4,142 10 32 44 82 95 161 192 330 383 639 1,261 2,934 15 25 35 66 77 132 157 267 310 524 1,027 2,398 20 22 31 58 67 116 137 231 269 456 888 2,078 25 19 27 52 60 104 122 206 240 409 793 1,860 30 18 25 47 55 96 112 188 218 374 723 1,698 40 15 21 41 47 83 97 162 188 325 625 1,472 50 13 19 37 42 75 87 144 168 292 559 1,317 60 12 17 34 38 68 80 131 1153 267 509 1,203 70 11 16 31 36 63 74 121 141 248 471 1,114 80 10 15 29 33 60 69 113 132 232 440 1,042 90 10 14 28 32 57 65 107 125 219 415 983 100 9 13 26 30 54 62 101 118 208 393 933 150 7 10 20 23 42 48 78 91 171 320 762
Tube Size (EHD*)
13 15 18 19 23 25 30 31 37 46 62
Note: Table 6.3 includes losses for four 90-degree bends and two end fittings. Tubing runs with larger numbers of bends and/or fittings shall be increased by an equivalent length of tubing to the following equation: l = 1.3n where L is additional length (feet) of tubing and is the number of additional fittings and/or bends. Note: *EHD – Equivalent Hydraulic Diameter, which is a measure of the relative hydraulic efficiency between different tubing sizes. The greater the value of EHD, the greater the gas capacity of the tubing.
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CORROSION PREVENTION
7.1
7.1.1
General Corrosion Protection Requirements
Protection for Aboveground Steel Piping All aboveground steel piping, such as service riser or meter loop piping, installed outdoors or indoors in damp locations shall be protected from atmospheric corrosion as required by state and federal pipeline safety regulations.
7.1.2
Protection for Underground Steel Piping All underground (i.e., buried) steel piping, such as service lines, shall be mill coated and cathodically protected as required by state and federal pipeline safety regulations. Similarly, building codes also require underground steel house lines to be coated and cathodically protected.
7.2
7.2.1
Coating Requirements
Specifications a. Coating for Aboveground Applications A good quality paint intended for exterior use on metal is an acceptable aboveground coating. b. Coatings for Underground Applications i. Pipe a) All steel pipe used for underground applications shall be purchased with mill applied Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) coating. b) Fusion Bonded Epoxy (FBE) is the only approved mill applied coating for steel piping in underground applications. ii. Joints and Defects a) At pipe joints and where defects in the pipe coating exist, the underground coatings on steel piping must be one of the approved coatings listed below. For other underground coatings, the coating must be approved by LG&E prior to its installation. Poly-Butyl Tape - The tape must have a total thickness of at least 25 mils that shall consist of a 20 mil tar based mastic or synthetic elastomer coating backed by a polyethylene film. It is applicable between the temperatures of -20°F and +130°F. Wax Tape (i.e., Plastic-fiber felt, saturated with a blend of petrolatum waxes, plasticizers and corrosion inhibitors, forming a tape wrapper)
7.2.2
Pipe Surface Preparation and Coating Installation a. Aboveground Piping i. Clean the piping surface of all dirt, oil, grease, moisture and other foreign matter. Oil and grease should be cleaned using a cleaning solvent. Remove all paint that is not tightly adhered.
ii.
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iii. Remove rust and loose mill scale. Power tool cleaning is recommended. However, hand tool cleaning (i.e., wire brushing) is acceptable. Use a cleaning solvent as required to ensure a clean piping surface. iv. Paint the piping surface with an aboveground coating. Refer to Section 7.2.1. v. The proper protective clothing, gloves and mask should be worn during the surface preparation and coating installation process.
b. Underground Piping At Joints and For Defects In Coatings i. Poly-Butyl Tape a) For defects in the coating, remove all damaged coating to a point where it is firmly bonded to the pipe. b) Clean the piping surface (i.e., the welded joints and the defects in the coating) of all dirt, oil, grease, moisture and other foreign matter. Oil and grease should be cleaned using a cleaning solvent. c) Remove all rust, paint, and loose mill scale. Power tool cleaning is recommended. However, hand tool cleaning (i.e., wire brushing) is acceptable. Use a cleaning solvent as required to ensure a clean piping surface. d) File or grind smooth all sharp edges or burns to prevent protrusion through the Poly-Butyl tape. e) Apply a thin uniform coating of primer to the clean piping surface and to the mill coated piping surfaces within the area to be wrapped. The primer used shall be compatible with the coating. The piping surface must be moisture free prior to the priming procedure and remain moisture free throughout application of the Poly-Butyl tape. f) Allow primed piping surface to dry to a “tacky” stage before application of the Poly-Butyl tape.
g) Apply the Poly-Butyl tape over the weld joint or defect area by using a cigarette wrap. A cigarette wrap consists of using pre-cut strips of Poly-Butyl tape equal in length to the circumference of the pipe plus a minimum of four inches (4”). h) Apply the Poly-Butyl tape over the entire area (including the weld joint) to be wrapped by spirally wrapping the Poly-Butyl tape around the pipe using a continuous 50% overlap of tape. The Poly-Butyl tape should be applied under tension. However, the last turn should be applied without tension. The tension in wrapping should be enough to obtain conformability to the surface being coated. The Poly-Butyl tape should then be cut on the downside of the turn and pressed into position. i) For questions or additional guidance involving the surface preparation and/or the installation of Poly-Butyl tape, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area.
ii.
Wax Tape a) For defects in the coating, remove all damage coating to a point where it is firmly bonded to the pipe. b) Clean the piping surface (i.e., the welded joints and the defects in the coating) of all dirt, oil, grease, moisture and other foreign matter. Oil and grease should be cleaned using a cleaning solvent. c) Remove all rust, paint, and loose mill scale. Power tool cleaning is recommended. However, hand tool cleaning (i.e., wire brushing) is acceptable. Use a cleaning solvent as required to ensure a clean piping surface. 52
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
d) File or grind smooth all sharp edges or burns to prevent protrusion through the underground coating. e) Apply a thin uniform coating of primer to the clean piping surface and to the mill coated piping surfaces within the area to be wrapped. The primer used shall be compatible with the coating. While it is preferred that the piping surface be moisture free prior to the priming procedure, a damp or wet surface is tolerable when applying wax primer and tape. Where moisture is present, rub and press primer into the piping surface, displacing the moisture and ensuring that the primer adheres to the piping surface. f) Apply the wax tape by spirally wrapping the wax tape around the pipe using a 25% overlap (e.g., using a four inch (4”) inch wax tape, a one inch (1”) overlap is required). Press the wax tape into place making sure that no air pockets exist and that the wax tape is in contact with the piping surface. Press and smooth out the lap seams to ensure that the laps are sealed.
g) For questions or additional guidance involving the surface preparation and/or the installation of wax tape, contact the Gas Operations Center in your area. 7.2.3 Coating Placement Underground mill applied coating shall extend, at a minimum, six inches (6”) above grade on any steel piping that enters or leaves the ground. 7.2.4 Coating Damage Prevention a. Care should be exercised in the handling of coated pipe. b. The bottom of the ditch must be free of rocks or foreign objects that may damage the coating. In addition, backfill shall be free of rocks or debris that may damage the coating. For more detail on backfill and trench bottom conditions, refer to Section 3.10.2 a. – BackFill and Trench Bottom Requirements.
7.3
7.3.1
Electrical Insulation
In order for cathodic protection to be effective, all protected pipe must be electrically separated from any electrically grounded metallic structure or piping. Dielectric couplings, dielectric unions, or dielectric flanges may be used at each point the protected piping extends out of or into the ground.
7.3.2
7.4
7.4.1
Anodes
General a. Cathodic protection can normally be provided to the coated and electrically isolated underground steel piping by means of a magnesium anode. b. Magnesium anodes have an insulated lead wire that must be electrically attached to the protected piping by thermite welding, brazing, or with an approved mechanical grounding clamp. c. The connection to the piping must be coated with an approved mastic or with tape and primer in the same manner as a joint or defect in the coating.
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.4.2
Anode Spacing a. For maximum effectiveness, one five pound (5 lbs) standard potential magnesium anode should be used for each 50 foot (50’) section of underground steel piping. b. To the extent practice, the anodes should be evenly spaced over the length of the piping being protected.
7.4.3
Anode Installation Anodes should be installed vertically at least three feet (3’) away from the piping with the top of the anode even with or lower than the elevation of the buried piping. See Drawing No. GCS 50-20-801, Vertical Installation Anode and Test Station, for recommended anode installation method.
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INSTALLATION AND OPERATION OF GAS BURNING APPLIANCES AND EQUIPMENT
8.1 Customer’s Responsibility
This section of this handbook is included to provide general information regarding safe installation and operation of gas burning appliances and equipment. Whereas LG&E will not knowingly provide gas service to an unsafe installation or operation, it is the installer’s and Customer’s responsibility to install and operate appliances and equipment safely.
8.2
8.2.1
Permits and Inspections
Installation of gas burning furnaces, boilers, space heaters, and other permanently installed equipment is subject to permit and inspection by the local building inspection authority. The installer has the responsibility of obtaining the necessary permits and post installation inspections.
8.2.2
8.3
Code Compliance
Appliances and equipment should be installed in accordance with the National Fuel Gas Code, NFPA 54, or other codes as applicable. The National Fuel Gas Code includes provisions for safe location, clearance from combustible materials, combustion air ventilation, and proper venting of combustion fumes.
8.4
Initial Startup of Appliances and Equipment
Upon initial startup, each gas appliance shall be checked for proper performance and operation, and shall be adjusted if necessary. Manufacturers’ written procedures shall be followed when available. At least the following operational tests shall be performed:
8.4.1
Test final gas connections and burner train for leaks. Using leak detecting solution or a sensitive electronic gas detecting instrument, check all final pipe connections downstream of the manual valve on the house line, including the appliance control valve and burner train. Repair any leaks.
8.4.2
Check gas firing rate. a. Check the input BTUH rate with the appliance operating at full capacity. b. Do not allow firing rate to exceed the nameplate input rating for the appliance. c. Adjust appliance pressure regulator or change orifices per manufacturers’ instructions if necessary. Instructions for timing the gas meter to determine firing rate are in Section 9.4 of this Handbook.
8.4.3
Check primary air adjustment. Visually observe flames for proper characteristics and adjust and secure air shutters if necessary.
8.4.4
Check controls and protective devices. Gas valves, electronic ignition, high temperature limit controls, flame sensing devices, and other safety controls shall be checked in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions. Any defective controls must be properly repaired or replaced.
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8.4.5
Check chimney draft. a. With appliance in normal operation for several minutes and with doors and windows closed, check for effective chimney performance. b. Perform match test at draft hood relief opening. A lighted match passed directly beneath the opening should continue to burn with flame and smoke drawn to the opening. If the match is extinguished, or the flame and smoke are blown away, combustion fumes are spilling out of the opening indicating that the chimney is not effectively venting. c. Where two or more appliances are vented through a common flue, check all draft hoods.
d. Do not continue to operate an appliance that is not properly venting. Corrections must be made for safe operation.
Natural gas appliances and heating systems are safe, dependable and cost-efficient. Add natural gas appliances and equipment to your home and find out why natural gas is America's best energy value.
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METER INFORMATION
9.1 How to Read Your Meter
Your natural gas meter is an accurate automatic measuring instrument. It measures the natural gas used to operate all of your natural gas appliances (e.g., hot water heater, furnace, range, etc.) by counting the filling and emptying of the compartments inside the meter. The natural gas used is measured in units of hundred standard cubic feet. A standard cubic foot is the volume of gas at a specific pressure (i.e., (4) ounces (i.e., 0.25 psig)) and temperature (i.e., sixty degrees Fahrenheit (60ºF)). The amount of gas measured is displayed on the meter index. The meter index is located on the front of the meter and may consist of either dials or an odometer. It consists of a reading and test portion. The reading portion will be described in the “Reading Dial Type Index Meters” and “Reading Odometer Type Index Meters”. The test portion is used for the following four applications: Confirm that a meter is operable, Test a gas house line system that is in service for leakage at operating pressure, Calculate the rate of gas consumption for a gas utilizing device, and Enable the accuracy of the meter to be tested in a certified meter proving facility.
Your consumption can be determined by subtracting your previous meter reading from your present meter reading. This amount will give you the volume of gas used in units of hundred cubic feet (CCF). Reading Dial Type Index Meters
Normally, an dial type index will have four (4) dials in a horizontal line with the dials labeled from left to right as “1 million,” “100 thousand,” “10 thousand,” and “1 thousand,”. These four dials are used in reading the meter. Also, the index will have two dials labeled “half foot” and “two foot”. The dials are used for meter tests and should be ignored in reading the meter. To read your dial type index meter, look at the four dials with their curved arrows. Read the dials from right to left as follows: 1. Read numbers that the dial pointers passed. Read the “1-thousand” dial as 1. Read the “10-thousand” dial as 0. Read the “100-thousand” dial as 9. Read the “1-million” dial as 4. 61
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
2. When a dial pointer is between two numbers, always record the number that the pointer has passed, which will always be the smaller number of the two numbers. 3. If a dial pointer is directly on a number, check the dial immediately to the right. The pointer on the right dial must have reached or passed zero to record the number on the left dial. If the pointer on the right dial has not passed zero, use the smaller number from the left dial. Following these guidelines, the correct reading for the meter dial shown above is 1094 hundred cubic feet (CCF): Reading Odometer Type Index Meters The odometer type index is a direct read. It reads like an odometer on a car. However, instead of measuring miles traveled, it measures the amount of natural gas used. Similarly, to a dial type index, it also will have two dials labeled “half foot” and “two foot”. The dials are used for meter tests and should be ignored in reading the meter. To read your odometer type index meter, read the number displayed. Each of the number would correlate to one of the four dials illustrated above.
Following these guidelines, the correct reading for the meter dials shown above is 1094 hundred cubic feet (CCF):
9.2
Meter Operability
To confirm that a meter is operable, place any gas utilizing device served by that meter into operation and observe the test dial. Movement of the hand should be apparent, the speed of which will depend upon the rate of consumption for the device.
9.3
9.3.1
Leak Test for A House Line System
To test for leaks in a house line system that is presently in service, perform the following steps: a. Completely shut off all connected gas utilizing devices, including their pilot lights if so equipped. b. Shut off all manual valves preceding connected gas utilizing devices. c. Mark the position of the test hand on the meter index glass. A felt tip pen, wax pencil, etc., may be used.
d. Observe the test hand for a minimum of ten minutes; any movement indicates that a leak exists. e. Locate and identify leaks so that proper repair or replacement can be implemented. To locate gas leaks, only use gas leak detecting solution or gas detecting instruments. Never use a match or open flame to locate gas leaks. 62
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
9.3.2
If a major leak is suspected, do not perform the above test. Call the LG&E Gas Emergency Service at (502) 589-5511. If you should shut off the service valve preceding the meter because of a suspected leak, do not turn it on after the leak has been repaired. Notify LG&E. LG&E will confirm that the house line system is free from leaks and then turn on the gas.
9.3.3
9.4
9.4.1
Gas Consumption Test
To test the gas consumption and BTU input rate for a device, perform the following steps: a. Turn off all appliances or devices not to be included in the test. For most accurate results, shut off their pilot lights. b. Place the appliance to be tested into full operation. c. Observe the test dial. Using a stop watch or conventional watch, count the number of revolutions of the test hand that occur in one minute, or time the number of seconds required for one or more complete revolutions.
d. Calculate the flow rate of gas using the following formula:
Q
N F 3600 t
Q = Flow rate of gas in cubic feet per hour (CFH) N = Number of turns of the test hand F = Volume in cubic feet for one turn of the test hand (Most residential meters have a 1/2 cubic foot test dial.) t = Measured time in seconds
Where:
Note: If the gas is being delivered at a pressure other than the standard pressure (i.e., 4 ounces), a multiplier must be applied. For assistance, consult the Gas Operations Center in your area. e. To determine the BTUH input for the device being tested, multiply the above flow rate by one thousand. While this value is an approximation, it is a conservative value because the BTU content for the natural gas delivered by LG&E is guaranteed to be a minimum of 1,000 BTU per standard cubic foot. Normally, the BTU content is slightly higher. 9.4.2 Upon completion of the test, return other appliances to normal operation.
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Gas Inspection Requests LG&E Residential Service Fax: (502) 333-1823
Gas Inspection Request
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Plumber’s name: Telephone Number: Fax Number: Requested by:
Full Address
Street Name Zip Code Subdivision Name Cross Street LG&E OK Conf. # LG&E NO METER ORDER
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
House #
Lot #
65
Note: If more than one (1) meter per service, please note on address.
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
Conveyance of Right of Way - Sample
CONVEYANCE OF RIGHT OF WAY
The undersigned, ______________________________________, of Jefferson County, Kentucky, for valuable consideration, receipt of which is hereby acknowledged (said consideration for this instrument is not measurable in money), do hereby grant and convey unto LOUISVILLE GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY, a Kentucky corporation, 820 W. Broadway, P. O. Box 32020, Louisville, KY 40232, its successors and assigns, (herein called the Company) the right and easement to construct, lay, maintain, operate, repair, and remove pipe line or lines for the transportation and distribution of gas, together with all equipment necessary or appropriate in connection therewith, along a route to be determined by the Company, crossing under the Grantor’s/Grantors’ property located at _____________________________, in Jefferson County, Kentucky. A fifteen foot (15’) wide gas easement parallel and adjacent to the south property line as shown by the hatched area on the LG&E drawing, attached hereto and made a part hereof. Said easement shall be maintained and preserved in its present condition and no change in grade or elevation will be made without the express consent in writing of the Company. Title to which was acquired by us by Deed dated the _____ day of _____________, ______ and recorded in Deed Book _____, Page ______, and recorded in the Office of the County Court of Jefferson County, Kentucky. There shall be no buildings or structures erected within the limits of this easement. The Company is further granted the right of ingress and egress over the lands of the undersigned to and from said line in the exercise of this easement and is further granted the right to do all reasonably necessary trimming and removal of trees and branches for the proper clearance of said line or lines. The gas service, or services, shall be extended to a point in a location designated by the Company. It is further agreed that the Company, at its option, will either repair, restore or pay to the undersigned for damages that may be caused by the Company in the exercise of this easement. IN TESTIMONY WHEREOF, witness the signatures of the undersigned this ____ day of _______________, 200__.
_____________________________________
Signature
____________________________________
Signature
_____________________________________
Address
Agent: Job #:
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SERVICE RELATED DRAWINGS
Drawing Numbers
GCS – 20-10-001 GCS – 20-20-002 GCS – 20-20-003 A GCS – 20-20-004 GCS – 20-20-005 GCS – 30-20-201 GCS – 30-30-201 A GCS – 30-30-202 A GCS – 30-30-203 A GCS – 30-20-204 GCS – 30-20-301 GCS – 30-20-302 GCS – 30-20-001 GCS – 30-10-002 A GCS – 30-20-002 GCS – 30-20-205 A GCS – 30-20-206 A GCS – 30-10-003 GCS – 30-10-004 A GCS – 30-20-003 GCS – 30-20-004 A GCS – 30-20-005 A GCS – 30-20-006 A GCS – 30-20-007 GCS – 20-20-006 GCS – 80-20-301 GCS – 80-20-302 A GCS – 50-20-801 GCS – 40-20-003
Description of Drawings
Acceptable Service Line Locations Installation of Gas Service Line in Shallow Rock Installation of Polyethylene Service by Insertion Detail Insert Protector & Sleeve for Polyethylene Insertion Attachment of Tracing Wire 1” Prefabricated Meter Loop Low Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT Medium Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator Elevated Pressure Meterset Assembly 1 NPS x 20 LT with Regulator 1” Meter Loop Field Fabricated 1” Meter Loop with By-pass 1 ½ Meter Loop with By-pass Typical Multiple Meter Installation for Various Types of Meters Master Valve Requirements for Multiple Meter Installations CSST House Piping Mobile Home Meter Loop Typical Multiple Meter Installation Prefabricated Meter Loops Acceptable Gas Meter Locations Acceptable Gas Meter Locations Meter Barricade Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line Flexible Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line Service Head Adapter/Straight Pipe Meter Riser for Use with Polyethylene Gas Service Line Anodeless Riser for Large Polyethylene Gas Service Line Gas Pipe Sleeving Through Concrete or Masonry Vertical Branch Connection with Drip Leg Polyethylene to Steel Transition for Underground House Line Vertical Installation Anode and Test Station 2.5 psig Residential Gas regulator Installation for Gas Pool Heaters/Gas Fired Generators
Page Number
70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98
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OLD DRAWING - A 13656
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ACCEPTABLE SERVICE LINE LOCATIONS
GCS - 20 10 001
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 13646
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
INSTALLATION OF GAS SERVICE LINE IN SHALLOW ROCK
GCS - 20 20 002
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 13643
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
INSTALLATION OF POLYETHYLENE SERVICE BY INSERTION
GCS - 20 20 003
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
1/19/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 13642
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
DETAIL OF INSERT PROTECTOR & SLEEVE FOR POLYETHYLENE INSERTION
GCS - 20 20 004
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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OLD DRAWING - A 13640
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ATTACHMENT OF TRACING WIRE
GCS - 20 20 005
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 15869
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1" PREFABRICATED METER LOOP
GCS - 30 20 201
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 15851
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
LOW PRESSURE METERSET ASSEMBLY 1 NPS x 20 LT
GCS - 30 30 201
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
1/19/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 15852
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
MEDIUM PRESSURE METERSET ASSEMBLY 1 NPS x 20 LT WITH REGULATOR
GCS - 30 30 202
Date: Drawn By: Scale
A
Sheet:
1/19/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTE: PLUMBING SUPPLIERS DO NOT HAVE GREEN ELEVATED PRESSURE REGULATORS. CUSTOMER SHOULD PURCHASE MEDIUM PRESSURE MODEL. LG&E WILL SWAP OUT NEW REGULATOR AT TIME OF SERVICE ACTIVATION.
OLD DRAWING - A 15853
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ELEVATED PRESSURE METERSET ASSEMBLY 1 NPS x 20 LT WITH REGULATOR
GCS - 30 30 203
Date: Drawn By: Scale
A
Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13645
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1" METER LOOP FIELD FABRICATED
GCS - 30 20 204
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13648
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1" METER LOOP WITH BY-PASS
GCS - 30 20 301
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTES:
1 1. GAS SERVICE VALVE, 1 2", TAMPERPROOF, LOCK-OFF, 100PSI OR GREATER 1 2. GAS VALVE 1 2" 1 3. PIPE PLUG 1 2" 4. SPLIT RING CLAMP OR EQUIVALENT 5. METER TO BE FURNISHED AND INSTALLED BY LG&E CO. 6. REGULATOR TO BE FURNISHED AND INSTALLED BY LG&E CO. 7. ANODLESS SERVICE RISER, SIZE AND CONFIGURATION AS REQUIRED
2
2
TOP VIEW
4"
15"
SPLIT RING CLAMP OR EQUIVALENT SHALL BE INSULATED FROM GAS PIPE WHEN CLAMP IS ATTACHED TO METAL STRUCTURE. HOUSE LINE (OUTLET) SIZE TO BE DETERMINED 3
1 PVC SLEEVE
3
12"
10"
1
6
BUILDING LINE
4
SIDE VIEW
FRONT VIEW
GRADE
SERVICE TO BE SIZED 7
OLD DRAWING - 2144
Distribution Operations
Title:
TITLE:
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
1 1/2" METER LOOP WITH BY-PASS
GCS - 30 20 302
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
40" MIN TO 60" MAX
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTES: 1 2 3 4 5 Master valve required, Tamperproof, 100 PSIG minimum rating Minimum center to center distance between meter risers 16" if both meter loops are 1" pipe size, 24" if either or both meter loops are 1 1/2" pipe size. Bypass valve on service line side not required on every bypass loop if a service line bypass connection is accessible on a neighboring loop within 48" Minimum manifold size is 1" nominal iron pipe size, larger if required to supply gas demand. Support with split ring clamps or equivalent. Each riser must be supported near top. Support must be adequate to bear weight of meters and piping plus all anticipated external forces. Stand off from wall nominal 3" to 5".
Meter Loops to be as required. Meter loops shown below are: Meter Loop #1. 1" prefabricated meter loop. Meter Loop #2. 1" field assemblied meter loop with bypass. Meter Loop #3. 1 1/2" field assembiled meter loop with bypass. Meter Loop #4. 1" field assemblied meter loop without bypass. Meter Loops to be built in accordance with applicable drawings.
Meter Loop #3
Meter Loop #2
3
Meter Loop #1
Meter Loop #4
2 1
12" MIN.
4
5
GRADE
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
TYPICAL MULTI-METERS INSTALLATION FOR VARIOUS TYPES OF METERS
Job#
Revision:
GCS - 30 20 001
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
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Figures below are defined as: FIG. A - Vertical 2 Meter Manifold FIG. B - Horizontal Multiple Meter Manifold FIG. C - Multiple Meters on Two or More Manifolds
MASTER VALVE
(FIG. A)
GRADE
MASTER VALVE
12" MIN CLEARANCE
(FIG. B)
MASTER VALVE
MASTER VALVE
12" MIN CLEARANCE
GRADE
Distribution Operations
Title:
(FIG. C)
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
MASTER VALVE REQUIREMENTS FOR MULTIPLE METER INSTALLATIONS
GCS - 30 10 002
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
1/2/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 14779
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
CSST HOUSE PIPING
GCS - 30 20 002
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
MOBILE HOME WALL 2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER RIGID PIPE 1' to 3' 2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER 2" STEEL PIPE SUPPORT 2" STEEL PIPE SUPPORT
2" PIPE SUPPORT
ATTACH APROVED FLEXIBLE CONNECTOR TO MOBILE HOME
2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER THREE FEET MIN. "SIDE TO SIDE" FROM ANY POTENTIAL IGNITION SOURCE (ELECTRIC METER, AIRCONDITIONER, AIR INTAKE TO HOME.) MEASURE FROM METER ELBOWS. METER CONNECTIONS RISER SHALL BE 1" IN SIZE. METER MUST NOT BLOCK INGRESS OR EGRESS INCLUDING EMERGENCY EXITS. (SERVICE LINE NOT TO BE UNDER MOBILE HOME). 6"
INSERT "A"
SIDE VIEW
TOP VIEW
METER FURNISHED BY LOUISVILLE GAS AND ELECTRIC.
SPLIT RING
MOBILE HOME WALL
SEE INSERT "A" 2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER
2" X 6" TREATED LUMBER SEE INSERT "A" 2" PIPE OR PREFABRICATED GAS METER SUPPORT STAKES. (TREATED LUMBER IS NOT TO BE USED.)
SPLIT RING
6" MIN GRADE
TRACER WIRE 18" MIN
POLYETHYLENE SERVICE
SIDE VIEW
Distribution Operations
Title:
FRONT VIEW
OLD DRAWING - A 13649 Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
MOBILE HOME METER LOOP
GCS - 30 20 205
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
1/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTES: 1. Prefabricated meter set, see Drawings GCS-30 30 201 thru GCS-30 30 203. 2. Gas valve, tamperproof, lockwing, 100 PSI or greater, size as required. For Master Valve requirements. Refer to GCS 30-10-002. 3. Support brackets, split ring clamp or equivalent, 4" to 5" from wall to center pipe typical. 4. Standard fittings, threaded malleable iron or forged steel class 150 or higher; socket weld or welded end fittings as applicable, size as required. 5. Schedule 40 steel pipe, minimum 1" nominal size, larger if necessary to satisfy load requirements. A - Split ring clamp or equivalent required on service line side of each meter set, near top. B - Service regulator furnished with prefabricated meter set. Regulator must match service line system pressure rating. Grey regulator, 1/8" orifice required for medium pressure, green regulator ½" X 9/16" orifice required for elevated pressure. No regulator for low pressure. C - Each meter set must be tagged to identify customer or property unit served.
FRONT VIEW
1 C C C C
SIDE VIEW
A
1
B
2 5'-0" MAXIMUM ABOVE GRADE
3 1 C C C C
2'-3" A 2
3
12" MIN CLEARANCE
GRADE
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
TYPICAL MUTIPLE METER INSTALLATION PREFABRICATED METER LOOPS
Job#
GCS - 30 20 206
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13657
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ACCEPTABLE GAS METER LOCATIONS
GCS - 30 10 003
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
3'-0 "R
AD IUS
SERVICE LINE 1'-0" 1'-0"
OLD DRAWING - A 15857
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ACCEPTABLE GAS METER LOCATIONS
GCS - 30 10 004
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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88
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13644
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
METER BARRICADE
GCS - 30 20 003
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None
1 of 1
89
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 12524
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
METER RISER FOR USE WITH POLYETHYLENE GAS SERVICE LINE
GCS - 30 20 004
Date: Drawn By: Scale
A
Sheet:
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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90
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 12525
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
FLEXIBLE METER RISER FOR USE WITH POLYETHYLENE GAS SERVICE LINE
Job#
GCS - 30 20 005
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
01/20/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
91
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 12527
Distribution Operations
Title:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
SERVICE HEAD ADAPTER/ STRAIGHT PIPE METER RISER FOR USE WITH POLYETHYLENE GAS SERVICE LINE
Job#
GCS - 30 20 006
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Scale Sheet:
01/2O/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
SERVICE VALVE & METER LOOP PIPING AS REQUIRED
MOUNTING BRACKET MUST PROVIDE VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL SUPPORT
GRADE LEVEL MARK MUST BE ABOVE FINISHED GRADE
GRADE LEVEL
ANNODELESS RISER 18" MIN.
TRACING WIRE
BASE OF RISER AND SERVICE LINE MUST REST ON UNDISTURBED OR WELL COMPACTED SOIL APPROVED PLASTIC TO PLASTIC MECHANICAL COUPLING OR HEAT FUSION JOINT
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
ANODELESS RISER FOR LARGE POLYETHENE GAS SERVICE LINE
GCS - 30 20 007
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13650
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
GAS PIPE SLEEVING THROUGH CONCRETE OR MASONRY
GCS - 20 20 006
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/03
CLARK
None 1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13639
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
VERTICAL BRANCH CONNECTION WITH DRIP LEG
GCS - 80 20 301
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
Scale
Sheet:
1/2/02
CLARK
None
1 of 1
95
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
OLD DRAWING - A 13653
Distribution Operations
Title:
Job#
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
POLYETHYLENE TO STEEL TRANSITION FOR UNDERGROUND HOUSE LINE
GCS - 80 20 302
Date: Drawn By:
Revision:
A
Sheet:
Scale
01/2O/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
96
Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
O LD DR A W IN G - A 13661
D istribution O perations
T itle:
Job#
G as S ervice H andbook
Lou is ville Ga s & Electric C om pany
V E R TIC A L IN S TA LLA TIO N O F A N O D E A N D TE S T S TA TIO N
G C S - 50 20 801
D ate: D raw n B y:
R evisio n:
S cale
S heet:
1/2/03
C LA R K
N one
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
NOTES: * 2 1/2 PSIG GAS NOT TO ENTER BUILDING. CUSTOMER RESPONSIBLE FOR SIZING, MAINTENANCE AND PROPER OPERATION OF ALL REGULATORS DOWNSTREAM OF METER.
1 1/2" METER LOOP WITH BY-PASS SEE DRAWING GCS 30 20 302
STANDARD 1" REGULATOR FOR ALL OTHER APPLICATIONS IN HOUSE (PLUMBER SUPPLY) * GAS FIRED GENERATOR
2 1/2 LB.- 1 1/2" REGULATOR LG&E SUPPLIED SEE INSERT "A" BELOW FOR REGULATOR DETAIL
REGULATOR SIZE FOR GENERATOR WILL VARY (PLUMBER OR MANUFACTURE SUPPLY)
INSERT "A" (TOP VIEW)
FLOW
(FRONT VIEW)
VALVE 1/2" TEST PLUG 1/2" NIPPLE & COCK UNION OPTIONAL VALVE
REGULATOR
Distribution Operations
Title:
TITLE:
Revision:
Gas Service Handbook
Louisville Gas & Electric Company
2.5 psig RESIDENTIAL GAS REGULATOR INSTALLATION FOR GAS POOL HEATERS/GAS FIRED GENERATORS
GCS - 40 20 003
Date: Drawn By: Scale Sheet:
01/24/06
CLARK/STRATMAN
None
1 of 1
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Customer Gas Piping Handbook Fifth Edition - May 2011
99
