How should I plumb the oil coming out of two tanks

rrs26ja

I am about to install a second oil tank. Due to suggestions on this forum, I will be using a separate fill and vent line. I have a question about plumbing the feed from the bottom of the tanks. I was planning on using two 1/2" ball valves after the fireomatic valves. Then plumbing to a tee using 1/2" black iron, then out of the tee with black iron to the filter and then out of filter using the 3/8 copper line that is feeding the burner today. Does this sound okay?

Bob Bona_4

My preference is brass for as many fittings as you can. Ball valves are a nice touch so the Fire valves don't wear out. If it's gravity fed I'd use a spin on type filter, any lift go with a Tiger Loop. Heck, do the Loop even on gravity, lots of benefits.

I'm in the crossover fill camp btw. I'm not seeing any issues, but results vary.

rrs26ja

Thanks Bob, on the brass do I use Teflon tape or the same pipe dope as I used on the black iron?

Bob Bona_4

Just use dope. Megaloc has served me well.

STEVEusaPA

From your shut off valves, I would go all copper, with brass flare tees--all flare fittings. If you get done and there's a leak, you'll have to disassemble the black iron.
Then, General filter, Spin-on with vacuum gauge, oil safety valve (if gravity), sleeved line to burner, firematic at fuel pump.
If gravity, forget the tiger loop. If you do use the tiger loop, you will have to put the bypass plug into the fuel pump.
Yes pipe dope, no teflon

Marz

The new code here in MA does not allow any ball valves at the oil tank or anywhere else in the fuel supply. The only valve(s) that should be used is one firomatic per tank.

Bob Bona_4

Marz, does that interpret to a Fire valve must be used (per usual) with no other valves? Bc, if you've met the FV requirement, I see no issue with additional valves. Including checks, which should never be needed. Nothing like that in CT.

Marz

I agree Bob with having additional valves. At the latest code class, it was stated that the firomatic doesn't get "exercised" on a yearly basis, which could cause the valve not to close over 165 degrees. I like to use a bottom out firomatic, and a straight firomatic in front. What does FV mean?

Bob Bona_4

FV means fire valve. Interesting thought. Stems do stick. And they like to leak too

rrs26ja

You guys make good points. The only reason I was putting in the shut off valves was to further isolate the tanks if I needed to replace a tank or fireomatic valve.