Copper gas pipe.

[EEZABLADE32]

I'm having a gas copper pipe fitted from a new meter to my first floor flat. My only concern is if someone steals the pipe and the gas escapes. Is there anything that can be done to lessen this risk. Thought of security camera but am not convinced.
Thx
Tony

[The-HouseHusband]

Paint it with a non-drying paint designed for such jobs or box it in so it is not visible to passers by and would take longer to get at.

[scotman]

Is this pipe going on the outside of your building?

[The Builder]

I can't see why a polyethylene pipe couldn't be used instead, or even threaded, galvanised steel tube.
No one would pinch those :o)

[johnk]

If it passes through a public place or shared space it would be better boxed in.

[Clanad]

I find that highly unusual compared to code requirements here in the U.S. Copper used as a natural gas conduit is not condoned for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the copper, when coupled with the service gas line coming to your house from the gas company will probably connect to a "black iron" pipe (again, here in the U.S.). This sets up a perfect example of electrolysis... i.e. corroison due to disimilar metals (Galvanic corrosion). The copper will corrode and eventually leak... more so if it's exposed to weather.
Secondly, copper pipe, when exposed to natural gas suffers a build up of Copper sulfate on the inside of the pipe. This will, over time, flake off and cause valves, burners and other orficies to fail.

[AlBags]

We use special plastic/poly underground pipe into the property's gas meter box now Clanad.
Copper distribution to cookers, heaters, etc is still the norm tho.

[scotman]

OP has not responded to my question so will go on the assumption that this pipe is external. From my time in gas supply industry in Scotland ALL external pipework was done in steel and I still can't think it is sensible to have external copper pipe.

[EEZABLADE32]

Thx for all the excellent replies, very helpful. S/man the pipe is external, but your final answer is much appreciated.