The FlashShield™ and FlashShield+™ flexible gas piping systems offer an alternative to traditional rigid steel piping for fuel gas applications in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. These systems, manufactured by Gastite, are designed to reduce installation time and the number of fittings required, potentially minimizing leak points. Installation must be performed by a certified installer who has completed the FlashShield™ training program, available through qualified distributors and at www.gastite.com. The systems are certified by the Canadian Standards Association and tested per ANSI LC1/CSA 6 standards. This article details system descriptions, installation practices, inspection procedures, and related considerations based on available documentation.
System Descriptions and Components
FlashShield™ systems utilize a corrugated design, allowing for continuous runs of tubing and reducing the need for intermediate joints commonly found in rigid steel pipe installations. The documentation specifies that the term “FlashShield™” applies to both FlashShield™ and FlashShield™ CSST systems unless specifically noted. The systems are intended for use with fuel gas piping, and the guidelines provided are intended for professional gas installers. The documentation acknowledges that it cannot cover every possible building configuration, construction style, appliance load, or code restriction.
Installer Information and Updates
Proper installation requires attention to the specific CSST product type being used. The documentation provides a chart outlining the correct end-prep procedures and bushing placement for both FlashShield™ CSST (requiring a two-step end-prep) and FlashShield+™ or Gastite® CSST (requiring a one-step end-prep). Installation is restricted to licensed installers only. Updates and further information are available on the manufacturer’s website, www.gastite.com. The documentation also includes a training program test, indicating the importance of formal training for proper installation.
Installation Practices: General Considerations
Several installation practices are outlined in the documentation. When using FlashShield™ CSST systems with line gas pressures exceeding the maximum appliance input rating, a regulator is required to reduce downstream pressure to 1/2 PSI or less. This regulator must include a lock-up feature to limit downstream pressure. Line gas pressures at or below the maximum appliance input rating do not necessitate a line regulator.
Regulators must be installed in accessible locations, with an approved shut-off valve and drip leg on the inlet side and a union (if required by local code) on the outlet side for inspection and maintenance. Shut-off valves should be opened and closed slowly. A performance test, involving operation of all appliances at full load, is recommended to verify adequate pressure at each appliance connection.
Underground Installations
FlashShield™ CSST is not approved for direct burial in the ground or direct embedding in concrete structures like slabs. If burial or embedding is necessary, the tubing must be routed inside a non-metallic, watertight conduit with an inside diameter at least 1/2 inch larger than the tubing’s outside diameter.
Electrical Bonding Requirements
The documentation states that there are no additional bonding requirements for FlashShield™ imposed by the manufacturer. Electrical bonding must adhere to the National Electrical Code NFPA 70 Article 250.104, or the Canadian Electrical Code CSA-C22.1, and should be performed in the same manner as required for rigid metal piping. The documentation notes that if local jurisdictions require direct bonding of the CSST, it must be performed by a qualified individual per local ordinances.
Inspection, Repair, and Replacement
The documentation emphasizes the importance of inspection and testing for leaks in accordance with local and state codes, or in the absence of those, the current edition of the National Fuel Gas Code ANSI Z223.1/NFPA-54 (USA) or Installation Codes CSA-B149.1 (Canada).
Damaged tubing requires careful evaluation. Crushed, dented, or kinked tubing may restrict flow and should be assessed for severity. FlashShield™ CSST must be repaired if punctured by nails, screws, drill bits, or similar objects. The documentation specifies that tubing crushed beyond one-third of its diameter must be replaced. Tears greater than ½" in the outer jacket are recommended to be wrapped with electrical tape or self-bonding silicone tape.
Pressure/Leakage Testing
Final installations must undergo pressure and leakage testing as per local codes or the National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1/NFPA-54) or Canadian Installation Codes (CSA-B149.1). The documentation does not provide specific testing procedures beyond referencing these standards.
Regulator Capacity
The documentation includes a table (Table 4-7) detailing the capacity of line regulators for natural gas with a 0.60 specific gravity, with factory outlet setpoints of 8" W.C. and 11" W.C. The table lists line capacity at various operating inlet pressures and provides Gastite P/N (part number) information for manufacturing.
Training and Certification
The FlashShield™ system requires installers to be qualified and certified. The documentation references a training program and includes a sample test administered only after completion of an authorized FlashShield™ training course. One question from the sample test specifically states that FlashShield™ CSST must be installed by a qualified installer who has successfully completed the certification program. Another question addresses local bonding requirements, emphasizing the need for installers to be familiar with local ordinances.
Product Advantages
According to promotional material included in the documentation, FlashShield™/FlashShield+™ systems are marketed as the safest flexible gas pipe systems available. They are claimed to install in approximately one-third the time of rigid piping, reduce gas fittings by 75%, and offer design flexibility. Training updates are available on the manufacturer’s website.
Conclusion
The FlashShield™ and FlashShield+™ flexible gas piping systems provide an alternative to traditional rigid piping, offering potential benefits in installation speed and reduced fitting requirements. However, proper installation is critical and requires a certified installer who has completed the manufacturer’s training program. Adherence to local codes, the National Fuel Gas Code, and the manufacturer’s guidelines is essential for safe and reliable operation. Regular inspection and prompt repair of any damage are also crucial for maintaining system integrity.