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3.5 General installation requirements
The Viega ProPress fitting system must be
installed while considering the following general
industry requirements.
3.5.1 Expansion
Thermal expansion in installed systems
generates stresses in pipes and appliance
connectors. Compensation must allow for
expansion and contraction that may occur within
the piping system. Expansion joints or mechanical
expansion compensators may be used to alleviate
these stresses.
3.5.2 Electrical bonding
When properly installed, Viega ProPress fittings
comply with section 1211.15, Electrical Bonding
and Grounding, of the Uniform Plumbing Code and
section 310 of the International Fuel Gas Code.
The mechanical press provides continuous metal-
to-metal contact between fitting and pipe. The press
ensures continuity of bonding through this contact.
3.5.3 Piping exposed to freezing temperatures
In the Viega ProPress system, the EPDM sealing
element can be installed in ambient temperatures
down to 0°F. The HNBR sealing element available
with Viega ProPressG fittings can be installed in
ambient temperatures down to -40°F. Piping systems
exposed to freezing temperatures must be protected
per acceptable engineering practices, codes and as
required by the local Authority Having Jurisdiction.
3.5.4 Corrosion protection
Viega ProPress fittings exposed to corrosive
action, such as soil conditions or moisture, must
be protected in an approved manner in accordance
with NFPA 54 section 404.8, NACE Standard
RP0169-2002 section 5, 2009 UPC Chapter 6
section 609.3.1, 2009 UMC Chapter 13 section
1312.1.3 and in a manner satisfactory to the local
Authority Having Jurisdiction. Care should be
taken to select hangers of suitable material that is
galvanically compatible with the piping system. In
addition, piping systems should be properly sized
to minimize the risk of erosion corrosion resulting
from excessive velocities.
3.5.5 Concealed spaces
Viega ProPressG was examined according to the
construction and performance criteria in the CSA
requirement LC-4 and was found acceptable.
Specific performance tests were conducted to
evaluate the fittings for use in concealed locations.
3.5.6 Underground installations
Viega ProPress fitting systems with copper tubing
are approved for underground installations.
However, any installations must meet all state and
local codes, including those for underground.
Proper authorization must be obtained prior
to installation from the local Authority Having
Jurisdiction.
3.5.7 Pressure testing
The pressure testing of installed pipe is to be
completed in accordance with local codes or
Authority Having Jurisdiction. For Viega ProPressG, in
the absence of local codes, test according to NFPA
54 or NFPA 58. Viega recommends air testing of
gas systems to be a minimum of ½ psi.
The Viega Smart Connect feature is a quick and easy
way for installers to identify connections that need to
be pressed. Testing for leaks using the Viega Smart
Connect feature is not a replacement for testing to
the requirements of local codes or standards.
Water testing the Viega Smart Connect feature:
When testing the system with water, a pressure
range of 15 psi - 85 psi maximum is to be used. If
an unpressed fitting is found, check to make sure
the tubing is fully inserted before completing the
press. Following a successful leak test, the system
may be pressure tested up to 600 psi for water
if required by local code requirements or project
specifications.
Air testing the Viega Smart Connect feature:
Leak testing with air can be dangerous at high
pressures. When testing with compressed air the proper
pressure range is ½ psi to 45 psi maximum. Following a
successful leak test, the system may be pressure tested
up to 200 psi maximum for air if required by local code
requirements or project specifications.
3.5.8 Pipe hangers and supports
Pipe supports perform two functions. The first
function is to provide support for the piping system.
The second function is to guide the pipe or tube
during thermal expansion and contraction. Industry
standard practices and guidelines shall be used for
piping layout and support. Viega press connections
require no special consideration for support.
Hangers and supports must conform to the local
code requirements. In the absence of local code
requirements, hangers and supports must conform
to ANSI/MSS SP 58 Pipe Hangers and Supports -
Materials, Design, Manufacture, Selection, Application
and Installation. Supports, hangers and anchors are
to be installed in a manner that does not interfere with
the free expansion and contraction of the piping.