LPG plumbing standards - marine

[bevans6]

I found this document interesting.  I'm gradually trying to upgrade my propane system, and Marine standards seem a good goal.  Any comments?  http://www.abycinc.org/committees/A-01.pdf

Brian

[Len Silva]

Interesting, though I think using the NFPA 1192 Standard on Recreational Vehicles would be more appropriate to our situations.

The marine standard:

A-1.7.2 Each appliance shall be served by a separate
low pressure, i.e., 50 Mb (5 kPa), regulated supply line that
shall originate inside the cylinder locker or protective
enclosure.

looks like it requires individual home runs to the propane source rather than a trunk line as used in most RV's.  Personally, I prefer that method.

A-1.7.3 A readily accessible manual or electrically
operated (e.g., solenoid) shut-off valve shall be installed in
the low or high-pressure line at the fuel supply. See the
requirements in A-1.7.6.1 for valve location requirements.

A-1.7.3.1 The valve(s) or its control must be operable
from the vicinity of the appliance(s) in the event of a fire at
any appliance(s). If the cylinder shut-off valve is readily
accessible from the vicinity of the appliance, the shut-off
valve on the supply line is not required.

A-1.7.3.1.1 The valve or its control shall be operable
without reaching over the top of any open flame appliance,
e.g., cooking appliance burners.

Appears to require a shut off valve in the area of each appliance which is different from the RV standard.  Unless you use an electrically operated solenoid valve, this might be cumbersome to achieve.

I have such a valve, associated with a propane detector, and most highly recommend this setup.

[bevans6]

Yes, home runs.  I toyed between the idea of doing everything home runs, and i think I've decided to go with consolidated groups on home runs, in my case stove and hot water on one run, and fridge and furnace on another, both protected by solenoids and leak detectors.  I thinnk I prefer the idea of UL listed flexible lines over copper as well.  I don't believe they allow black iron on boats, either.  They have strict rules on tank lockers as well.  I don't plan to have such a locker, but I do plan to have the tanks in a separately vented compartment in the bay, next to the door.

they have obviously thought about the safety aspect quite thoroughly.

Brian