Gas piping must be properly supported and cannot be used for what?

Gas piping must be properly supported because improper support can lead to strain, stress, and potential failure of the piping system. When it comes to structural integrity, gas piping should not be relied upon as a means to support other structures or materials. Such practices can lead to excessive loads on the gas piping, which could cause misalignment, leaks, or even ruptures, posing significant safety hazards.

Using gas piping for structural support can violate building codes and safety regulations, which are designed to ensure the reliability and safety of gas piping systems. Each component has a specific function, and mixing these functions can compromise safety and functionality.

While encapsulation, insulation, and temporary holding are practices that can involve gas piping under certain conditions, they do not relate to using the piping as a structural support mechanism. Proper support methods must be utilized to maintain the integrity of gas piping systems, ensuring they function safely and effectively within their intended design.