Gas pressure at the outlet of a natural gas meter is usually measured in inches water column. What value is typical?

Gas pressure at the outlet of a natural gas meter is usually measured in inches water column. What value is typical?

• A. 10 inches water column
• B. 7 inches water column
• C. 5 inches water column
• D. 4 inches water column

Answer: (B)

Gas pressure in fuel-gas systems for residential service is described in inches of water column because the flow paths are small and pressures are very low. The meter outlet is typically regulated to a low, steady pressure that appliances can reliably use. Seven inches of water column is the standard target value for this outlet pressure, roughly 0.25 psi. This level provides enough pressure to feed burners and regulators in many appliances while staying well within safe, stable operating limits. If the outlet pressure were much lower, some burners or regulators might not get consistent flow; much higher would change flame characteristics and safety margins. So seven inches water column is the common, practical pressure at the meter outlet.

Gas pressure in fuel-gas systems for residential service is described in inches of water column because the flow paths are small and pressures are very low. The meter outlet is typically regulated to a low, steady pressure that appliances can reliably use. Seven inches of water column is the standard target value for this outlet pressure, roughly 0.25 psi. This level provides enough pressure to feed burners and regulators in many appliances while staying well within safe, stable operating limits. If the outlet pressure were much lower, some burners or regulators might not get consistent flow; much higher would change flame characteristics and safety margins. So seven inches water column is the common, practical pressure at the meter outlet.