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Ferrous nipple used after a backflow preventer

Ron Jr._3
Ron Jr._3 Member Posts: 603
Was wondering if it's code that the piping used between the backflow preventer and a pressure reducer has to be non ferrous ? Considering the prv we use is ferrous , I'm not so sure .........  Backflow is always upstream of the prv . Thanks in advance .

Comments

  • icesailor
    icesailor Member Posts: 7,265
    edited March 2013
    Backflow terminations:

    It has always been my understanding as a Massachusetts Licensed Master Plumber that the Plumbing Code ends at the required correctly installed backflow device.

    There is a place on a Massachusetts Uniform Plumbing Permit for a Backflow Protection device but NOT for a Pressure relief Valve.

    Many of us install a ball valve after the PRV so you can service the assembly and use a brass nipple. Some with less concern of corrosion and obstruction use a steel nipple. I personally do not. For whatever that might be worth.
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 16,796
    We use brass

    both for the nipple and the PRV. Why ask for rust?
    All Steamed Up, Inc.
    Towson, MD, USA
    Steam, Vapor & Hot-Water Heating Specialists
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  • icesailor
    icesailor Member Posts: 7,265
    Quality Installers:

    Quality installers use brass as far as necessary. And it comes apart easier.
  • Ron Jr._3
    Ron Jr._3 Member Posts: 603
    I use

    brass between them , or copper .



    Was just wondering if it's specifically stated in any code to do so .
  • icesailor
    icesailor Member Posts: 7,265
    Ferrous PRV's

    ,,,"and a pressure reducer has to be non ferrous ? Considering the prv we use is ferrous , I'm not so sure .........  Backflow is always upstream of the prv . Thanks in advance . ",,,



    Where are you getting Ferrous PRV's?

    I haven't seen any Watts ones that are new for quite a few years. I surmise that there was a problem with Ferrous PRV's were clogging internal screens and lunching boilers when they wouldn't pass water. When I see a bronze colored ferrous PRV's, they usually won't pass water or they won't stop and the only replacements I can buy are all brass. non-ferrous ones.
  • billtwocase
    billtwocase Member Posts: 2,385
    PRV

    I use brass also, but I must say that it is more of a quality issue with valves nowadays. I still have cast B&G's, and Thrush out there that still perform better than the 1156's that are replaced yearly for many reasons.
  • Ron Jr._3
    Ron Jr._3 Member Posts: 603
    Iron body PRVs

    We use the Taco brand exclusively . And yes Bill , we see 60 year old B+G dual units quite often in Levitt homes . Still working as good as new ! No fast fill , but you can't have everything !
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