New kind of flex steel pipe?

jm_6

Found out today that bathroom contractor is going to have plumber (who is a great PLUMBER) move our steam radiator for us. We are moving it over because a room's dimensions have changed. It's traveling over 2 stud bays. Everything's open right now, so it's easy to access.

Today, I chatted about the plumber to try to assess his knowledge of steam systems. (I love our steam heat and I'm in charge of maintaining the system at our house. It's like tuning a fine violin.)

He told me that he wouldn't be using the existing pipe and moving it over, but he will be scrapping the iron pipe and using a "new kind of insulated flexible steel pipe."

Huh?

I can understand playing with the pipes on a hot water system but my impression was that the angle and lengths of pipe for a steam one-pipe system were pretty important. (If I don't want knocking and I want an efficient system.)

I'd never heard of this kind of pipe and I'm kind of skeptical. Am I being too hard on this guy? Or should I question this some more? I researched this type of pipe on the 'net and couldn't find anything. Ring bells with anyone?

Thanks much...

Steve Paul

Flexible steel pipe

I wonder if he he is planning on using CORROGATED STAINLESS STEEL (CSST) PIPING? This stuff is great for gas piping, but it is only intended for use in gas piping systems. If it were to be used on steam, I think that it would cause problems. It almost never can be installed straight and level without dips. This will surely create traps and hammering.
Steve Paul

Weezbo

interesting......

ccst isnt insulated it has ajacket over the outside and is used in Natural gas supply lines...flex steel with insulation...maybe...who is manufacturing the material? if it says quick or trac pipe on it ... i havent seen any lit saying it is rated for that purpose.

ed wallace

flexable steel pipe

do your self a favor tell him no unless he can show you it is rated for steam heat and that he will keep it the same size as the steel pipe

John Shea

Corrugated...

would be poor design in it of itself. It would prevent complete condensate return unless it were vertical, and could potentially cause hammering and 'flash' steam (lost efficiency)

Is there a reason he can't (or doesn't want to) use cast iron or black?

bob young

steel pipe vs. hobbist junk

sounds like you should do yourself a favor and call a real plumber. one that uses real pipe. this guy is an imposter [ handyman ]