Assembly and Maintenance of Gas Installations PDF
Assembly and Maintenance of Gas Installations PDF
Assembly and Maintenance of Gas Installations PDF
M 8 / UD 7
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
INDEX
INDEX...........................................................................................335
INTRODUCTION..........................................................................339
GOALS..........................................................................................341
1. ASSEMBLY PHASES...............................................................343
2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS.........................................344
2.1. Generalities......................................................................344
2.2. Booths to house propane gas containers UD 110 or I 350
on battery....................................................................................345
2.3. Booths for accountants....................................................345
2.4. Foundations for fixed LPG tanks....................................346
2.5. Pressure reducers.............................................................346
2.6. Limiters............................................................................346
2.7. Accountants.....................................................................347
2.8. Conduits...........................................................................347
2.9. Shut-off and regulation valves.........................................348
2.10. Valves for fixed LPG tanks.........................................349
2.11. Air inlets for ventilation...............................................350
2.12. Burned gas outlet.........................................................350
3. PROCEDURES AND OPERATIONS REVIEWING THE
FACILITIES..................................................................................351
3.1. Civil work........................................................................351
3.2. Distribution network........................................................352
4. SUPPLIES, TOOLS AND MEANS USED IN THE
ASSEMBLY. TECHNIQUES OF USE.........................................353
4.1. Generalities......................................................................353
4.2. Manual tools....................................................................354
4.3. Electro-portable tools......................................................354
5. NETWORK ASSEMBLY......................................................356
5.1. Copper pipes....................................................................356
5.2. steel pipes........................................................................356
5.3. polyethylene pipes...........................................................357
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
5.4. Accessories......................................................................357
6. ASSEMBLY OF MACHINES AND EQUIPMENT. ASSEMBLY
TECHNIQUES AND OPERATIONS, SEATING, ALIGNMENT,
FASTENING, ETC........................................................................358
6.1. Generalities......................................................................358
6.2. Mobile LPG Container Batteries.....................................359
6.3. Fixed LPG tanks..............................................................360
7. COMMISSIONING................................................................361
7.1. Generalities......................................................................361
7.2. Implementing regulations................................................362
7.3. Verifications....................................................................362
7.4. Pipe tightness tests...........................................................364
7.5. Commissioning of installations with batteries with mobile
LPG containers...........................................................................365
7.6. Commissioning of facilities with fixed deposits LPG....365
8. ASSEMBLY OF PROTECTION PANEL AND
AUTOMATION AND ELECTRICAL NETWORKS..................368
8.1. Generalities......................................................................368
8.2. Installations with explosion-proof enclosures.................368
8.3. equipotential connections................................................369
8.4. grounding.........................................................................369
9. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE OF GAS
INSTALLATIONS........................................................................371
9.1. Preventive Maintenance..................................................371
9.2. Maintenance and repair manuals.....................................371
9.3. Reviews in domestic receiving installations at B.P........371
9.4. Periodic reviews of packaging facilities LPG mobile on
battery.........................................................................................372
9.5. Periodic reviews of facilities with tanks LPG fixed.......372
9.6. High power installations..................................................373
10. TYPE OF FAULTS.............................................................374
10.1. Diagnosis and localization...........................................374
10.2. Maintenance operations: techniques and procedures.
Tools 374
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
INTRODUCTION
Throughout this teaching unit we are going to expose the criteria that we must
adhere to when carrying out the assembly and maintenance operations of gas
installations, as well as to carry out tightness tests and proceed with their
commissioning. Operations that the student of the Training Cycle, while not in
possession of the corresponding professional licenses, must carry out under the
supervision of an authorized gas installer/maintainer. With this, you will be able to
acquire the necessary experience and a higher professional qualification that
allows you to access the different professional licenses, in accordance with the
training itineraries established by the public administration, being able then, and
only then, to act with total autonomy.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
GOALS
1. ASSEMBLY PHASES
The assembly sequence is different depending on the type of installation and its
circumstances. However, there are clearly differentiated phases that are common
to all of them. Namely:
• Technical specifications.
• Rethinking of the facilities.
• Execution of prior civil works.
• Location, if applicable, of machines and equipment.
• Network assembly.
• Carrying out mechanical resistance and tightness tests.
• Verification of compliance with regulations.
• Start up.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
2. TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
2.1. Generalities
For small installations, such as those made with mobile butane gas containers of
the UD 125 type or installations that receive natural gas or propane gas from the
corresponding meter, we have to know the following characteristics of the
receivers:
• Heating power.
• Operating pressure.
• Type of gas for which they are prepared.
• Password for homologation of the receivers, for the purpose of subsequent
legalization.
• Type of connection (threaded, with nipple...).
And, also, the specifications of:
• The pipes (material, dimensions, joining methods...).
• The shut-off and regulation valves (nominal pressure, diameter of the inlet
and outlet threads...).
Medium-type installations, such as those that use mobile propane gas container
batteries of type UD 110 (11 Kgs.) or I 350 (35 Kgs.) and that do not require a
Technical Project, may require, in addition to the characteristics of the receivers,
the preparation of a plan to be able to properly locate the bottle shed, in
accordance with the criteria given in teaching unit 6, which reflects the existence
of elements subject to safety distances, such as drains, electric motors or
explosion, electrical conductors... From the plan, the installer will size the shed
citing its technical specifications.
If the installations require a Technical Project, the installer will comply with it in all
that is specified, although this does not free him from the obligation to inquire
about any detail not included in the Project and that may affect the installation.
On the other hand, the technical specifications of:
• The regulation devices.
• The accountants.
• The conductions.
• The cut-off and regulation valves.
In all cases, it is necessary to know the characteristics (location and size) of the
air inlet grilles for ventilation and the burnt gas evacuation ducts, as well as to
collect, where appropriate, the mounting templates for the receivers that have
them.
The following sections outline the technical specifications of fundamental
components of gas installations.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
Example
What will be the interior measurements of a shed to house 8+8 type I 350
propane gas bottles if they are placed in a double row?
L = (16/2 + 1) x 0.30 = 2.70 meters
A = 0.80 meters.
H = 1.80 meters.
All materials used for the construction of the booth will be non-combustible and
will not have electric lighting (the standard accepts it if the material is explosion-
proof but its high cost makes it unfeasible). As we already said in UD 6, the shed
will be closed with a padlock and its floor will have a slope of 10% to prevent
rainwater from damming.
The door will be metal (usually made of iron), ventilated at the top and bottom
with electro-welded metal mesh, inclined slats or similar. Its size depends on the
interior distribution of the bottles. The most advisable thing is to use a double-leaf
door, with measurements of the order of 120x180 cm.
• For BP distributions: 220 mm.ca for natural gas, 300 mm.ca for butane gas
and 370 mm.ca for propane gas.
Furthermore, it is essential to know if the regulator has:
• Minimum pressure VIS interception valve, manual or automatic reset.
• Maximum pressure VIS interception valve.
• VES exhaust valve, also called VAS overpressure relief.
Its input/output characteristics are expressed:
• In normalized threads (20x150 and 21.8 Left for small LPG regulators).
• In gas threads from 1/2" for larger regulators.
• In nominal diameter of the flanges for large flanged regulators (DN 40 would
correspond to a 1 1/2" regulator for example).
2.6. Limiters
As indicated in UD 5, pressure limiters, used only for propane gas installations,
are rated at:
• 1.75 BAR for the domestic and tertiary sectors.
• 3 BAR for industrial uses.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
Its capacity must also appear on the outside, expressed in Kgs/h. They will be
installed after the output of the first stage pressure reducer or the automatic
inverter, if applicable.
2.8. Conduits
For combustible gases, steel, copper and polyethylene are used (only in buried or
embedded sections). Although the diameter of the pipes must be determined by
calculation (see UD 5), there are values that are very common.
• Butane gas in BP: 13/15 Cu.
• Natural gas in BP (domestic installations): 13/15 Cu.
• Propane gas in MPB (small and medium installations): 10/12 Cu and 13/15
Cu.
• Propane gas and natural gas in MPB (large installations): From 1" Ac.
• Natural gas and propane, in buried sections MPB or BP: Polyethylene DN
20,25, 32, 40 and 50 mm.
It is important to indicate that the color of the pipes must be yellow for the gas
phase (natural gas or LPG) and red for the liquid phase of LPG.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
Stopcock M ” x M ” PN5
• Flanged shut-off valves for natural gas and LPG industrial installations in gas
phase: PN16, DN 15 to DN 50
• Shut-off valves for liquid phase: PN40.
3
• The setting pressure, 20 BAR, and the discharge flow rate in Nm /min of air
will be indicated on the safety valves.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
Drawing a parallel
In the layout of the foundation for an LPG tank We will start from the
corresponding axles, then marking the shoes. The safety distances that appear in
the Technical Project will be carefully verified.
It is important to mark the wall grommets well, so that their axis is next to the wall
through which the channeling will run and at its height.
The air inlets for ventilation should be located in areas where a receiver will not
be placed against the wall later. Its height, the dimensions of the hole and that the
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
air chambers must be sealed to avoid gas accumulation in the event of a leak
must be indicated.
Placement of clamps
The general shut-off valves will always be located in an easily accessible place,
without the need to use a ladder to do so. If necessary, because the pipeline is
drawn high, it will be lowered to a height of around 1.70 meters, locating the
aforementioned keys. Those located outside in areas of public passage should
not be higher, and if necessary be placed inside a cabinet with a tab closure, not
a padlock.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
In installations made with copper pipe, the appliance keys must be placed firmly
anchored to the wall closest to the receiver or on a robust support. They will
never be installed in the air since in this case the pipe could suffer a mechanical
torsional stress when opening or closing the tap. The regulation elements,
especially the low pressure ones, require being close to the receivers, and a
pressure loss of more than 5% is not admissible.
In industrial kitchens, it is possible to place the regulators at the back of the
kitchen blocks, or on the side, in which case they will be housed inside a
watertight cabinet or, at least, they will have a cover that protects them from dirt.
especially to the pressure balance hole.
4.1. Generalities
In the module corresponding to “Machining and joining techniques”, in the first
year, these points are sufficiently developed, so that we will only point out some
specific concepts of the gas technique. We remember that gas pipes can be
made with:
• Copper, used in small and medium-sized installations where there are no
major mechanical requirements.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
• Steel, most commonly used in industrial facilities, with pipes with diameters
that can be considerable and therefore have greater mechanical
requirements.
• Polyethylene, for buried (or embedded) sections in BP and MPB.
be used for other types of pipes (copper or polyethylene) that require less
aggressive machining and for which pipe cutters should be used. They are
especially dangerous machines, so they must be used with caution.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
5. NETWORK ASSEMBLY
The use of “ermeto” or similar systems (ovals that are embedded in the tube and
then create a metal-metal joint) is not the most appropriate for copper pipes since
any movement can cause leaks.
In some receivers the connections are made of steel with a male gas thread and
poor machining. In this case, a conversion must be made to parts with good
machining using Teflon as an intermediate sealing gasket. Never hemp or similar
substances.
the most common is “butt” welding without the need for sleeves, using the so-
called “hamburger curves” standard 3 (radius of curvature 3 times the diameter).
For high pressure, that is, in sections that may be more than 4 BAR (for example
the loading pipe of an LPG tank with a distance mouth), the use of female-female
joints and curves (that is, they hug the tube on the outside) of forged steel is
required. The welds will be reviewed one by one using “non-destructive” tests, the
most used types being x-ray and liquid penetrant tests. These tests must be
carried out by an entity authorized by the public administration.
For the coupling of flanged elements, flat gaskets approved for fuel gases will be
used. If the elements are threaded, Teflon or similar material must be used.
PE-Cu stem
The large number of accessories available for electrowelding and the simplicity of
handling the machines have meant that PE has displaced copper (very expensive
as it requires a thickness of 1.5 mm. and brass accessories) and, in diameters up
to 3", to steel (which also requires cathodic protection).
5.4. Accessories
The cocks, filters, pressure reducers and other accessories can be attached to
the pipe using:
• Nuts with loose fittings with flat gasket, for small diameters and copper pipes.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
• Gas threads. If the pipe is made of steel, forged steel sleeves with MNPT
conical thread can be welded to it, which ensure excellent tightness at high
pressures.
• Flanges, exclusively for steel pipes. These will be welded in the correct
position, taking into account that their holes are located so that, when the
accessories are mounted, they are in the appropriate positions.
The following precautions should be taken:
• Flat synthetic rubber gaskets should not be pressed excessively. They can
break, so the nuts must be tightened carefully and to the right point.
• The gaskets used for flanged elements (faucets, regulators, filters...) must be
pressed evenly. Tighten the screws little by little and in order, in several
turns.
• The Teflon placed as a sealing material between threads gives very good
results if the necessary amount is placed, that is, offering a certain resistance
to tightening. The number of turns depends on the size of the threads and
their machining.
• Flat or O-ring gaskets should not be replaced by Teflon on their seat.
• The pipe must be well anchored so that it cannot be moved by hand.
6.1. Generalities
Wall-mount gas receivers usually come with corresponding templates. It is
essential to correctly level them and transfer them to the wall. If the receivers are
small (heaters...) they are usually attached with two or more points. It is
necessary to first place one of the anchor points, hang the receiver, level it and
then mark and execute the other anchor points. Kitchen countertops always have
a template to make the appropriate hole. Once located, they will be connected
with rigid pipe (never flexible).
In industrial LPG facilities Transfer systems using a pump or compressor are
used to fill the tank. Although this equipment is built so that vibrations are
minimal, the pipe will be mounted so that the initial sections have enough curves
to absorb them. Silent blocks will also be placed in the holes that the legs of these
elements are provided with.
Industrial natural gas facilities do not have equipment susceptible to producing
vibrations, so no special precautions are required.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
or ramp elbows) must be 15 cm. if the bottles go in a double row and 30 cm. if
they only occupy one row.
150
1500
and the magnetic level will be threaded will be carefully cleaned, placing these in
their corresponding holes, with the exception of the safety valve, and, in the case
that there is
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
• The magnetic level buoy must move perpendicular to the axis of the tank so
as not to trip over the liquid phase outlet probe tube.
• The multivalve (gas phase outlet) will be placed in the corresponding hole,
3/4" NPT. Never in a liquid phase outlet (which has a probe tube, which is
easily noticeable with the finger) and which is also 3/4" NPT so it leads to
confusion.
• Before assembling the multivalve, the length of the high filling point rod will be
verified, which will be the measurement determined in the project. For 1,200
mm tanks. It is 28 cm. Before assembling the multivalve, the rod will be
threaded onto it and, opening the knurled screw, it will be blown to verify that
it is not clogged. For this thread, you should not use Teflon or overtighten it
so as not to crush it.
Once the tank is assembled, the first stage regulation equipment (flow limiter,
MPB adjustable pressure reducer and pressure limiter) will be connected.
7. COMMISSIONING
7.1. Generalities
The commissioning of an installation is subject to the corresponding regulations
and is carried out by an Installer provided with the corresponding tooth
professional card and, where appropriate, in the presence of representatives of
the holder, supplying company, Department of Industry or collaborating company
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
7.3. Verifications
In all cases, prior to start-up, it will be verified that:
• The air inlets for ventilation are made and have the location and free section
required by regulations.
• The burned gas evacuation ducts are installed, they do not have a manual
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
• In your case ( 3rd group installations with mobile LPG containers) two 2.5 Kg
PS fire extinguishers are installed.
In installations with fixed LPG tanks
• Safety distances are met.
• The tank is grounded and the socket is no more than 20 Ohms.
• The tank has no scratches and is well painted.
• The enclosure has signs with the indication “Smoking and fire prohibited”.
• At least one 6 Kg PS fire extinguisher is placed nearby.
• If it is located on a terrace, it has hose equipment and lightning rods with
sufficient radius.
• The enclosures are at least 1.80 meters high.
• The door opens outwards and is provided with a padlock.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
7.4.2. LPG
In the MPB sections, the test will be carried out with air, inert gas or propane gas
at 5 BAR for 15 minutes. If propane gas is used and the pipes are cold,
condensation may occur, so you should:
• Open the connection of the test equipment and, after the pressure has
stabilized, wait with the equipment open for 15 minutes.
• Close the equipment. The pressure gauge should not drop.
• As a verification, open the equipment again. If a small hiss does not occur, it
is a sign that the pipe is watertight.
In the BP sections, soapy water will be used at service pressure.
7.5.2. Start up
Once the tightness of the battery and piping has been checked, if the installation
has an automatic inverter, all the bottles will be opened and the installation will be
purged through the receivers. If the installation is very long, it will be purged in
MPB by loosening the inlet nuts to the receiver cocks a little, and then, after
tightening them, the BP sections will be purged.
If the installation has a manual diverter followed by an MPB pressure reducer, the
same procedure will be followed, but adjusting it to a pressure between 1.2 and
1.5 BAR. This regulation must be carried out with consumption, either in the
receivers or by causing a small leak in the battery at the outlet of the pressure
reducer.
The containers cannot be replaced except by personnel from the supplying
company.
pressure for 30 minutes. To do this, once all the valves are in place, except for
the safety valve (which will be tested separately) and the level indicator, water will
be introduced up to the indicated pressure using a manual or electric piston
pump. The container should not be left under pressure for much more than 30
minutes because its structure could be affected and it should be depressurized
without haste. In new tanks these tests are done in the factory.
The safety valve will be tested with a hydraulic pump, inserting a small
accumulator to avoid sudden opening. It must open at 20 BAR, closing when the
pressure drops to 19 BAR. If the valve does not act correctly, replace it and send
the calibration to the factory indicating that it is defective.
7.6.4. Start up
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
The maneuvers will be carried out without haste, since otherwise it is very easy
for the flow or pressure limiters to be triggered. Thus:
• With the receiver stopcocks closed, the gas phase outlet of the multivalve will
open slightly. Will whistle.
• Little by little the hiss will decrease until it disappears, a sign that the pipe is
full of gas. At that moment we can fully open the key without danger of the
limiters tripping.
• Once the tap is opened, the MPB pressure reducer must be adjusted, with
consumption, to values between 1.2 and 1.5 BAR.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
8.1. Generalities
Electrical installations affecting gas technology are limited to the industrial field,
complying with the standards of the Low Voltage Electrotechnical Regulation for
premises with danger of fire and/or explosion in:
• Installations of transfer equipment for filling fixed LPG tanks in which
compressors or pumps are used and the installation of lighting is necessary.
• Regulation and measurement facilities, where electrical energy will be used
in the distribution systems of reading equipment and luminaires.
On the other hand, in this type of installations equipotential and grounding
connections are used, which fall within the electrical technique and therefore must
be considered.
The protection and maneuver panels must be placed away from these areas of
special danger, so they do not have to meet specific requirements. Pneumatic
accessories, especially pushbuttons, can also be used to control the equipment.
Although it is not the responsibility of the gas installer to carry out this type of
assembly, they must be sufficiently familiar with it, especially as it affects the risk
of improper handling.
Explosion-proof enclosure
inside. The value of the gap “e” is such that the gas can expand without
problems, thereby creating nothing more than a controlled overpressure inside
the envelope, and, in addition, it cools when leaving, giving up heat to the
envelope that It is made of cast aluminum and has considerable mass. All
explosion-proof material will have its corresponding nameplate, which, along with
the Ex or Eex notation (which indicates that it is built for an explosive
atmosphere), includes the letter “d” (flame-proof enclosure), the indication of the
group of protected gases. (I for natural gas and IIA for propane) and ambient
temperature, which, if not otherwise specified, is acceptable between -25 ° C to
+40 ° C.
The cable used for installations with explosion-proof enclosures is of the armored
type and installed in surface mounting, although in installations In older versions,
1,000 V cable can be found under the tube, with the entrances and exits of the
enclosures sealed to prevent possible transmission of the pressure wave if an
explosion occurs inside the enclosure. Its section must be very oversized so that
it does not register the slightest heating and, in the event of a short circuit, it can
withstand it without being destroyed.
8.4. grounding
Require grounding:
• ERM regulation and measurement stations of natural gas.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
9. PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE OF
GAS INSTALLATIONS
• The air inlets are not covered by objects and have sufficient section.
• The evacuation ducts have the correct layout and have deflectors.
This review must be completed with a control of the draft in the heaters and/or
heating boilers and an analysis of their combustion products.
• The ground connection is well connected and has a value of no more than 20
Ohms.
• There are no leaks in the valves, for which soapy water will be used.
• The high filling point is not blinded.
• There are no traces of rust on the tank, it is well painted.
• The regulators are set at pressures between 1.2 and 1.7 BAR.
• The “no smoking and no fire” signs are in place and in good condition.
• Fire extinguishers do not exceed their expiration date.
If the tank is buried, the cathodic protection potential will be measured. If the tank
is on a terrace, the following will also be verified:
• The good condition of the loading mouth.
• Its ground connection.
• The good condition of the hose and that the pressure in it is sufficient.
• The good visual condition of the lightning rod.
The power line corresponds to the section that goes to the external shut-off valve.
In it, a leak test will be carried out with propane gas at 5 BAR, starting from the
outlet of the pressure limiter and for 15 minutes, and the pressure gauge should
not be lowered once the installation is stabilized. For the test, the external
stopcocks will be closed.
In the part corresponding to the receiving installation (starting from the general
external cut-off key) the reviews are four-yearly, with the same operation
indicated in section 9.4 for these.
• The magnetic level has an O-ring or cylindrical seal. If there is a leak, the 4
screws provided can be tightened by turning in the order 1-3-2-4.
• If the magnetic level does not start on a first fill with more than 10% charge,
hit the upper generator of the tank, next to the level, with a plastic mallet or a
board. The vibration produced usually makes it take off.
• If the magnetic level sticks during filling, having been started correctly, it is
possible that it is positioned incorrectly and the float hits the liquid phase
probe tube.
• If the high point indicator does not whistle from the beginning when the
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
knurled screw is opened, it may be clogged. If it hisses but does not spit out
liquid when it reaches 85%, it means that it is short in length.
• The fill valve may leak through its check valves. In this case, it should not be
covered with the plastic cover it comes with, but rather with a metal cap,
since the first one alone protects it from dirt and may not withstand the
pressure.
• If the MPB pressure reducer vibrates, it must be verified that no liquid comes
out of it, which would be due to the fact that, erroneously, it is connected to
an orifice that corresponds to the liquid phase that has a diving tube welded
to it. This assembly error is very serious since it can cause the liquid to reach
the receivers, causing a sudden expansion that could cause an explosion.
In order to solve these faults, it may be necessary to empty the gas tank, a
delicate operation that must be carried out according to the following process:
• If the fault does not pose an immediate danger (level engaged, high point
indicator blinded), consume all the gas.
• If there is a gas leak that is considered serious, the distribution company must
be asked to send a depressurized tanker truck. The tank will be emptied
through the liquid phase outlet, aided by the injection of nitrogen through the
loading mouth (using a suitable adapter) which will create an overpressure
that facilitates the operation.
• Once the tank is empty, it will be inerted with nitrogen.
• The overpressure will be relieved by discharging the gas-nitrogen mixture to
the atmosphere with caution.
• Once this is done, the tank can be opened and the repair can proceed.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
• Once this has been carried out, the tank must be inerted again for filling.
PREVENTIVE MEASURE TO
IDENTIFIED RISK IMPLEMENT
Falls at different levels due to internal movements Protect the gaps.
on site. Use of approved PPE.
Falls from manual ladders or scaffolding. Use of stairs with non-slip shoes. Correct assembly
of scaffolding.
Explosion during the start-up of the gas Supervision of operations by qualified technical
installation. personnel in possession of the corresponding
professional license.
SUMMARY
The assembly of a gas installation consists of different phases that may have
different chronological order, but always include:
• Establishment of the technical specifications of the complementary civil works
and the different components of the installation: receivers, booths,
foundations for fixed LPG tanks, regulation elements, pipes, air inlets for
combustion, burnt gas outlet...
• Rethinking operations of the facilities, both civil works and the distribution
network.
• Carrying out the previous civil works.
• Assembly of networks, machines and equipment.
• Tests for tightness and mechanical resistance, if applicable.
• Commissioning.
The tools used in gas installations must be of good quality and not damage the
manipulated elements. Tap wrenches will only be used to secure steel pipes,
avoiding their use in other cases (for example to tighten valves in LPG tanks).
The copper pipes will be joined by capillary brazing in all sections of MP. The
steel ones with electric welding. All of them will be subjected to tests of
mechanical resistance and tightness with air, inert gas or fuel gas, and the
pressures and times indicated by the regulations. The welds of the high-pressure
steel pipes (lines of the charging ports at a distance from LPG tanks, etc.) will be
inspected with non-destructive tests (use of penetrating liquids).
Electrical installations used in premises with danger of fire and/or explosion will
be made with explosion-proof material. Both its assembly and repair will be
carried out by an authorized electrician installer.
Gas installations require preventive maintenance based on regulatory reviews,
annual for LPG tanks, and four-yearly for receiving facilities. These reviews will
have to be carried out by an installer-maintainer with competence in the
corresponding type of installation.
Breakdowns usually correspond to leaks or blockages in regulation systems. To
detect leaks, soapy water or an electronic detector will be used. Under no
circumstances will a flame be used.
IG-1 installers can carry out or maintain low-pressure domestic gas receiving
installations, that is, from the meter (in the case of natural gas) or from a
maximum of two butane gas containers in parallel, with a low-pressure outlet. IG-
2 installers may also intervene in receiving installations of any type (even in
public places) and mobile LPG container batteries. with distribution in MPB. The
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
IG-3 installers can work in buried installations and the IG-4 in any type of
installations. The installer of any category must be registered in an OTC
Registration Book and belong to an installation company also registered.
Breakdowns in LPG tanks They must be repaired under the supervision of an IG-
4 installer. Special care must be taken when handling propane gas in the liquid
phase, as it causes burns. Therefore, appropriate gloves must be used. The
danger of these operations requires having very clear ideas about their execution.
Safety in the assembly and maintenance of facilities involves compliance with the
work standards set forth in this teaching unit, the identification of other general
risks, and the adoption of the corresponding preventive measures.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
GLOSSARY
Detectable with soapy water and, for low pressures, through the water column.
Flat gasket : cylindrical joint
O-ring : circular joint with circular section.
Civil works : complementary work for the assembly of gas installations and
equipment (foundations, booths, wall passages...)
Characteristics plate : on a receiver and on a regulation or cutting element, it
indicates its technical specifications, approval password and information from the
manufacturer or importer.
Hydraulic pressure : achieved by means of a pump, it allows verifying, with
water, the conditions of mechanical resistance and non-deformability of a fixed
LPG tank
Pressurize : increase the pressure in an LPG tank (or a conduction) by means of
inert gas.
Technical Project : description and justification of the characteristics of a gas
installation carried out by a competent qualified Technician.
Purge : eliminate air or inert gas in a tank or pipeline.
Staking out : action of marking on the ground, based on the corresponding plans,
the different parts of a gas installation that require it (pipes, foundations, booths,
wall passages...)
Conical thread : one that is not cylindrical but has a certain taper, which allows a
better adjustment of the threaded elements. In gas the NPT thread is used.
Stem : accessory that allows the connection of a buried or embedded
polyethylene conduit with steel or copper pipe.
Ramp tee : intermediate accessory that allows connecting the hoses from mobile
LPG containers connected as a battery with the collector. Its ends are usually M
20x150 threaded and for welding at (0)10/12 Cu.
Knurled screw : screw machined so that it is easy to manipulate by hand.
Shut-off valve : in gas technology they are those with 1/4 turn capable of rapid
closing and opening.
Regulating valve : they are those capable of adjusting, within a limit, the gas flow
and pressure, with a smooth operation of several turns of the handwheel.
High filling point rod : threaded rod to the outlet multivalve of a fixed LPG tank
with a length such that it allows detecting that the liquid level in it is 85%.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
SELF-ASSESSMENT QUESTIONNAIRE
c) Pistons.
9) The pressure at the inlet of an LPG meter is
a) Always 37 mBAR.
b) It can be 0.8 BAR.
c) It will be 220 mm.ca
10)If we say that a shut-off valve is DN40 it means
a) That its inlet and outlet are DN40 threaded.
b) Which is flanged and is used for 1 1/2" steel pipe.
c) Which is flanged, used for 40 mm polyethylene.
11)In a fixed LPG tank small in size, the valves (with the exception of the
magnetic level) are of
a) 3/4" and 1 1/4" gas.
b) 3/4" and 1 1/4" Allen.
c) 3/4" and 1 1/4" NPT.
12)The useful section of a 100x100 aluminum grating is of the order of
100cm2
a)
70cm2
b)
700cm2
c)
13)Clamps should not be placed
a) At the elbows of the pipes.
b) In the vertical uprights.
c) Next to the stopcocks.
14)If a gas line enters through the roof, the main shut-off key
a) A Stillson wrench.
b) A wrench.
17)If we use a flat gasket in a nut sealing system with loose fitting, the nut must
be tightened:
a) As tightly as possible in order to fully compress the joint.
b) With just enough force, using some Teflon to improve the tightness.
c) No answer is correct.
18)If we have to weld a pipe under high pressure, it must
a) Use stainless steel accessories.
b) Perform non-destructive testing (for example x-rays) on each weld.
c) Both answers are correct.
19)Polyethylene
a) It can only be used in buried installations.
b) It can be used in visible installations.
c) Both answers are incorrect.
20)The piece used to connect polyethylene pipes with copper pipes is called
a) Stem.
b) Root.
c) Converter.
21)Batteries for mobile LPG containers They should be placed at a height above
the ground
a) 1.80 meters.
b) 1.00 meter.
c) 1.60 meters.
22)In a battery for mobile LPG containers In a row the distance between two
consecutive ramp tees will be:
a) 30cm.
b) 45cm.
c) 15cm.
23)In a fixed LPG tank the magnetic level buoy must move
a) In the same direction as the axis of the tank.
b) Perpendicularly to the axis of the tank.
c) At 45 ° from this.
24)Yes in a fixed LPG tank we insert our finger through the collar and come
across a tube, the output will correspond to
a) Gas phase.
b) Liquid phase.
c) It can belong to either of the two, depending on the type of deposit.
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
25)The high filling point rod in a fixed LPG tank it will be threaded to the
multivalve
a) Using Teflon to ensure perfect sealing.
b) Not using Teflon but squeezing it very tightly.
c) Not using Teflon.
26)At the door of a booth for mobile LPG containers the most appropriate is
a) Use a padlock.
b) Use a lock.
c) Use a latch that cannot be locked with a padlock.
27)If a fixed LPG tank It is located on a terrace and must have:
a) From a hose team.
b) From a NH3 fire extinguisher.
c) Of both elements.
28)The minimum height of the enclosures of the fixed LPG tank areas be:
a) 1.80 meters.
b) 2.20 meters.
c) 1.10 meters.
29)The test pressure in a 12 meter long section of MPB will be:
a) 5 BAR for 30 minutes.
b) 5 BAR for 1 hour.
c) 1.5 times the service pressure for 15 minutes.
30)In a natural gas network with supply pressure 550 mm.ca The test pressure
will be:
a) 1 BAR for 15 minutes.
b) 1,500 mm.ca during 15 minutes.
c) 1,500 mm.ca for 5 minutes.
31)In a natural gas network with supply pressure 1,000 mm.ca The test pressure
will be:
a) 1 BAR for 15 minutes.
b) 1,500 mm.ca during 15 minutes.
c) 1,500 mm.ca for 5 minutes.
32) To look for leaks in a gas network
a) An explosion-proof lighter will be used.
b) Soapy water will be used.
c) Both methods are acceptable.
33)In a battery for mobile LPG containers Provided with manual diverter and
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
YOU 7 ASSEMBLY AND MAINTENANCE OF GAS INSTALLATIONS
BIBLIOGRAPHY
GLOSSARY
39
9
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
GLOSSARY
Standard conditions of a gas : they are those that correspond to +15 ° C and
atmospheric pressure.
Real conditions of a gas : refer to the properties under the specific conditions of
distribution or feeding.
Conduction : channeling through which the gas or liquid phase passes.
Equipotential connection : electrical bridge that prevents nearby conduits or
metal elements from being at different electrical potentials.
3
Counter : device that measures and records the transferred flow in m /h at the
distribution or consumption pressure.
Approval password : in a gas receiver it is a reference granted by the OTC that
indicates that the receiver is authorized for connection to the gas network and
meets the regulatory conditions, appearing in the type records.
Accumulated dimensions : they start from a common origin, so measurement
errors do not accumulate.
Linked dimensions : these are those usually used, added to give the total length.
Deflector : outlet cap of a burnt gas evacuation pipe that prevents water from
penetrating into it and preventing water from flowing back towards the receiver.
Absolute density : mass per unit volume.
Apparent density : It is also known as fictitious density and is relative to that of
air.
LPG tanks : cylindrical containers topped by two spherical caps and used to store
bulk gas.
Depressurization : reduction of the pressure of a container to atmospheric.
Safety distance : path taken by the gas in the event of a leak.
Perfect gas equation : mathematical formula that relates, in absolute values, the
so-called “normal conditions” to the “real conditions” of a gas.
Container I 350 : standardized container that can contain 35 Kgs. Propane gas,
equipped with IESA valve.
Popular packaging : small containers without a safety valve and with a screw
cap and which allow them to be transported in unauthorized vehicles.
UD 110 container : standardized container that can contain 11 Kgs. Propane
gas, equipped with KOSANGAS valve.
40
0
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
GLOSSARY
UD 125 container : standardized container that can contain 12.5 Kgs. Propane
gas, equipped with KOSANGAS valve.
Explosion-proof enclosure : it allows conventional electrical equipment and
materials to be housed inside, being constructed so that, in the event of an
explosion, the blast wave cools, exiting to the outside at a temperature lower than
the ignition temperature of the surrounding gaseous atmosphere.
Hose equipment : set of 25 mm (o) rigid hose, wound on a reel, stopcock and
pressure gauge that is placed next to the fixed LPG tanks installed on terrace.
Ermeto : metal-metal joint with an intermediate embeddable sleeve for gas-
specific steel pipes.
Graphic scale : segment divided into units of measurement, which preserves the
original proportions with the measurements of the plane even if it is reduced or
enlarged.
Numerical scale : proportion between the measurements of the plane and those
of reality.
Technical specification : technical data (power, pressure, flow...) of a pipe,
accessories or receiver.
Scheme : simple graphic expression of the technical characteristics of an
installation without details of its route.
Tightness : in gas it is equivalent to the absence of leaks at the test pressure.
Detectable with soapy water and, for low pressures, through the water column.
Renouard formulas : basic formulas for determining the pressure loss in a gas
pipeline.
Bulk gas : commercial propane (up to 20% butane gas) or metallurgical gas
(100% pure propane) supplied via tanker trucks to fixed tanks.
Piped gas : gas carried through pipes to the points of consumption. It is usually
natural gas, but there are small pipelines (urbanizations...) from an LPG tank in
bulk.
Industrial fuel gas : homogeneous fuel gases used in the residential, industrial
and tertiary sectors.
Compressed gas : gas that is only used in the gas phase (natural gas).
Bottled gas : Liquefied petroleum gas (butane or propane) that is stored in the
liquid phase in a mobile container.
Liquefied petroleum gas : coming from its distillation, it is stored in the liquid
phase in large tanks, for later packaging or distribution in bulk.
Manufactured gas : produced from various raw materials, it is what was
previously called “city gas”.
Natural gas : obtained from deposits in which it accompanies or does not
accompany oil. It is made up mainly of methane gas.
40
1
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
GLOSSARY
Gas pipeline – pipeline to transport gas (especially natural gas) over long
distances.
Level indicator : in an LPG tank in bulk indicates, through a magnetic system,
the % filling.
Wobbe index : numerical value in relation to the PCS of a gas and its apparent
density. It allows gases to be classified into families and is related to their
interchangeability.
Automatic inverters : devices used in batteries with mobile LPG containers that
allow the entry of the reserve branch without cutting off the gas flow.
Manual inverters : devices used in batteries with mobile LPG containers that
allow the entry of the reserve branch, cutting off the passage of gas.
Isometric : simple expression of a gas installation carried out in isometric
perspective, in which its route and length of the sections are indicated
Flat gasket : cylindrical joint
O-ring : circular joint with circular section.
Hose : reinforced flexible tube to withstand high pressure whose ends are
provided with standardized nuts.
Pressure limiter : safety device placed behind the MPB pressure reducers or
automatic inverters that prevents, in the event of their failure, the pressure from
exceeding 1.7 BAR in domestic installations and 3 BAR in industrial installations.
Manometers : bellows or membrane devices, dry or with glycerin, that directly
measure gas pressure.
Fixed pressure reducer : device that maintains the downstream pressure in a
pipe constant, regardless of the flow rate and inlet pressure, within certain limits.
Adjustable pressure reducer : device that maintains the downstream pressure
in a pipe constant, regardless of the flow rate and inlet pressure, but has a
regulation screw that allows it to be adjusted within small limits (e.g.: 200–350
mm.ca).
Adjustable pressure reducer : device that maintains the downstream pressure
constant in a pipeline but, thanks to a lever that controls the antagonistic spring of
the pressure reducer, can vary the pressure between wide limits (e.g.: 0 to 3
BAR).
Multivalve : accessory for LPG tanks where the gas phase stopcock (use) and
the high filling point indicator are located.
Civil works : complementary work for the assembly of gas installations and
equipment (foundations, booths, wall passages...)
Pressure loss in a pipe : pressure drop in it, in absolute values or in %.
40
2
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
GLOSSARY
40
3
MODULE EIGHT WATER AND GAS INSTALLATIONS
GLOSSARY
Shut-off valve : in gas technology they are those capable of rapid closing and
opening.
Exhaust valves : they relieve transient overpressures in a distribution network to
the atmosphere. They are also known as VAS (overpressure relief valves).
Interception valves : called VIS, they can act by minimum or maximum pressure,
cutting off the distribution line if the thresholds are exceeded.
Regulating valve : they are those capable of adjusting, within a limit, the gas flow
and pressure, with a smooth operation of several turns of the handwheel.
Outlet valve in liquid phase : in an LPG tank bulk, valve connected to the probe
tube through a check-lock type adapter.
Excess pressure safety valve : in an LPG tank in bulk, hydrostatic valve that
opens at the set pressure of 20 BAR in case of an abnormal rise in temperature
(fire...).
Check valve : allows gas to pass in only one direction.
Push-button valve : allows very low pressure gauges (ventometers) to be
coupled to the distribution network, so that communication with it is established
only while the valve is kept pressed.
Vaporizer : device that, by adding external heat from an electric resistance or a
heating boiler, makes liquid propane gas boil when its consumption is so high that
natural vaporization of the tank is not enough.
High filling point rod : threaded rod to the outlet multivalve of a fixed LPG tank
with a length such that it allows detecting that the liquid level in it is 85%.
Ventometer : manometer to measure very low pressures.
Specific volume : it is said to be the volume occupied by one kilogram of the gas,
under normal conditions, that is, at 0 ° C and atmospheric pressure.
40
4