Why LPG Cylinder Pipes Are Mostly Orange In Colour?

If you have ever looked at the pipe connected to your gas cylinder at home, you must have noticed that it is almost always orange. Have you ever wondered why? Why LPG cylinder pipes mostly orange in Colour? Why not blue or green or any other colour? There is a very good reason for this, and it is all about your safety. So, explore this article, and know the reasons in detail.

What is an LPG pipe?

The rubber tube from the gas cylinder to the stove is known as an LPG pipe or gas hose. It conveys the gas from the cylinder to the burner, which is used for cooking food. It's a really crucial component of your kitchen setup, as it transports gas.

Why are LPG cylinder pipes mostly orange in colour?

The orange colour of the LPG pipe is not just for looks. There are several simple but important reasons behind it.

1. Easy to Identify

Orange is a very bright colour which is easily recognisable. The gas technician or inspector will be able to easily identify the orange pipe during an inspection and determine that it is an LPG hose. This allows them to perform a more efficient inspection of the pipe and identify any issues as early as possible.

LPG safety rules state that the orange-coloured LPG hose is the only pipe to be used for domestic LPG gas connections in India. The colour is a fantastic way for both consumers and technicians to instantly know that the hose is for LPG use.

2. Industry Standard Colour

Orange is the standard colour that is adopted by the manufacturers of LPG hoses in India over the years. This is a common technique practised by all major pipe manufacturers. This means that an orange pipe is for gas purposes.

3. Special Material Inside

Orange LPG pipes are constructed of a special rubber compound. This rubber is designed to handle gas pressure, heat, and daily wear and tear. Many orange hoses also have steel wire reinforcement, making them safer and stronger.

According to the IS 9573 (Part 2) 2017, rubber hoses used in LPG, which are certified by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) have an outer cover made of synthetic rubber, which is coloured orange and is resistant to oil, weather and ozone. High-tensile-strength steel wire is used for reinforcement.

4. Visible Warning Signal

The bright orange colour also works as a warning signal. It is easy to detect if the pipe is damaged, cracked or has changed colour. This will allow you to change the pipe before it becomes hazardous.

MCQ to test your Knowledge

Q. What is the full form of LPG?

A) Liquid Petroleum Generator

B) Liquefied Petroleum Gas 

C) Liquefied Power Gas

D) Liquid Power Generator

Answer: B) Liquefied Petroleum Gas 

Explanation: The full-form of LPG is Liquefied Petroleum Gas. It is fuel which is primarily composed of propane and butane, which is commonly used for cooking, heating, and industrial purposes.

What Does ISI Mark on the Pipe Mean?

When you buy an LPG pipe, always look for the ISI mark on it. The ISI mark is given by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). It is a test that confirms the pipe is safe for use in India.

All the oil marketing companies like Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BPCL), Hindustan Petroleum (HPCL) suggest using IS-certified orange colored LPG hoses for domestic connection.

LPG rubber hoses are manufactured as per IS 9573 (Part 2): 2017 in India. This certified pipe has been tested for:

• Gas pressure resistance

• Heat tolerance

• Flexibility

• Resistance to weather and ozone damage

Why are green and transparent pipes rarely used for LPG lines?

You might have noticed pipes being sold which are green or transparent (see through). Many people purchase them in that they are cost and readily available. However, these pipes can be extremely hazardous.

Green Pipes: Pipes which are typically used for water supply, drainage or wastewater. They are not designed for LPG gas. The green pipe may crack, weaken or corrode if LPG is passed through the pipe for a long time. This can result in gas leaks, and even explosions in the kitchen.

Transparent Pipes: These are transparent or see-through pipes which are used for water or low-pressure air applications. They should not be used for gas connections unless they are specifically certified and labelled for LPG use. Most types of transparent pipes are not designed for LPG gas pressure.

So, green and transparent pipes are not suitable for LPG and can be dangerous to use

Quick Comparison: Orange vs Green vs Transparent Pipe

This orange colour of LPG pipes isn't simply a design decision. It is a recognised industry standard to aid identification of the pipe as an LPG-specific hose. Special materials used in orange pipes make them able to withstand the pressure and temperature of the gas. They are ISI certified as per BIS standards IS 9573, assuring their safety and quality.

Now the next time you are asked why the gas pipe at home is orange, you will have the answer. Safe, certified and designed for one purpose only, transporting LPG gas to the stove safely, it's orange.