Where is corrosion severity typically the highest in gas piping?

Corrosion severity in gas piping is typically highest at the point of entry (POE) into buildings. This is primarily due to several factors present at this location.

At the point of entry, the piping transitions from the outside environment, which may expose it to moisture, dirt, and other corrosive elements, into the controlled indoor environment. This transition can create conditions conducive to corrosion as moisture can accumulate at this junction, exacerbated by temperature changes that cause condensation. Furthermore, the entry point may be subject to mechanical stress or damage from installation processes, which can compromise the integrity of the protective coatings on the pipe and increase susceptibility to corrosion.

In contrast, locations such as the outlet side of the gas meter or the meter itself tend to have less exposure to moisture and other corrosive factors that are prevalent outside the building. Similarly, while the service connection to the building can have some corrosion, it is often not as severe as at the POE, where environmental factors converge most critically.

Understanding where corrosion is most severe is essential for conducting effective inspections and maintenance of gas piping systems to ensure safety and longevity.