What type of plastic is commonly used for gas piping?

Polyethylene (PE) is commonly used for gas piping due to its excellent resistance to corrosion, low permeation rates, and good flexibility, which make it suitable for various installation environments. PE is specifically designed to handle natural gas and other gaseous fuels, ensuring safety and reliability in gas distribution systems.

The properties of polyethylene allow it to withstand the pressures encountered in gas transport while also providing resistance to stress cracking and chemical degradation. Furthermore, PE pipes are often joined using heat fusion methods, creating strong and leak-free connections that are crucial in gas applications.

Other types of plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene (PP), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), are generally not approved for gas piping due to specific limitations regarding their chemical resistance, temperature tolerances, or strength under pressure. For instance, PVC is commonly used for water supply and drainage but does not have the necessary properties to safely transport gas.