What is the required support frequency for rooftop gas piping?

The requirement for supporting rooftop gas piping is based on the need to secure the piping system adequately to prevent movement or sagging that can lead to stress at joints and potential failures. Threaded joints are pivotal points in the piping system where two sections of pipe connect, and they are particularly vulnerable to stresses that can arise from thermal expansion, environmental factors, and structural movement.

By requiring support at every threaded joint, the system addresses these vulnerabilities directly. This support ensures that the threaded connections remain secure and aligned, reducing the risk of leaks or damage that could occur if those joints were allowed to move freely without adequate support.

Other requirements regarding support frequency, such as support every 10 feet or every 15 feet, do not account for the specific risks associated with the threaded joints themselves, which can be subject to more significant forces and stresses compared to the straight runs of pipe. Supporting at the joints ensures the integrity of the entire system, particularly in challenging rooftop conditions.