Massachusetts Plumbers Journeyman Practice Exam

What type of space should be maintained between the piping that penetrates concrete floors slabs or concrete walls and the sleeve?

1. Half-inch

2. One-inch

3. Two inches

4. Three inches

The correct answer is: One-inch

The appropriate amount of space to maintain between the piping that penetrates concrete floor slabs or walls and the sleeve is one inch. This space serves several important functions. Firstly, it allows for movement due to thermal expansion and contraction of the pipe. As temperatures fluctuate, piping materials expand and contract, and providing this one-inch gap helps to accommodate those movements without causing stress or damage to either the piping or the concrete. Additionally, this space aids in preventing the transfer of vibrations from the concrete to the piping, which can be particularly important in systems where noise control is a consideration. The one-inch separation allows for any potential buick and prevents direct contact that could lead to wear and tear over time. Moreover, maintaining this gap can also facilitate easier installation and future maintenance, as it allows for some maneuverability and access around the piping. In contexts other than the specified one-inch gap, either larger or smaller separations may not adequately fulfill these practical functions of accommodation and protection.