If you are in the business of laying utility pipes, you understand the difference between underground and above ground pipes. Current regulations restrict the material for each environment. As a result, when it comes to bridging the gap between the two types of applications, a specialized pipe is requisite. For those who supply natural gas, a riser serves this purpose.
A riser, consisting of a metal sheath (often stainless steel) coating a plastic (polyethylene) pipe, is the best means of providing safe and secure delivery of services. By installing a riser, often an anodeless one, as a component of a gas service line, the installation company can introduce the necessary transition from pipes beneath the surface to those under to above the ground.
What to Look For
When considering the installation of a natural gas riser, it is imperative to look at the specific qualities and requirements. Since gas lines above ground must meet different specifications than those lying beneath the surface, make sure the riser possesses the following qualities:
* Durability
* Proper casing material – usually stainless steel exterior coating a polyethylene plastic pipe interior
* Anti-corrosive
* Anti-moisture fittings
* Right casing configuration – pre-bent, straight or flexible
* Custom-made or easy to customize
* Options
* Safety
* Reliability
Above all, make sure the riser meets not only your company’s specifications but also the requirements of all invested agencies including ASTM and ANSI.
The Natural Gas Riser
If you are in the business of manufacturing, supplying or constructing pipelines for a utility company, it is important to keep in mind the current regulations. They prohibit the use of plastic above ground. However, much of today’s underground network of pipes is comprised of plastic. To ensure a smooth transition from plastic pipes to indoor pipes or other junctures, a riser is essential. By choosing an appropriate natural gas riser, commonly an anodeless riser, a company can avoid any installation issues, including regulatory ones.