Difference between flexible and rigid gas pipes

Rigid piping: Typically made of galvanized steel or stainless steel corrugated tubing, it is suitable for concealed installation within kitchen walls and for fixed, long‑distance connections between the cooktop and the gas meter. It offers superior safety and durability, making it ideal for permanent gas‑line routing.

　　1. Differences in Scene Applicability

　　Rigid piping: Typically made of galvanized steel or stainless steel corrugated tubing, it is suitable for concealed installation within kitchen walls and for fixed, long‑distance connections between the cooktop and the gas meter. It offers enhanced safety and durability, making it ideal for permanent gas‑line routing.

　　Hoses: The mainstream options are rubber‑covered, stainless‑steel‑wire‑braided hoses and stainless‑steel corrugated hoses specially designed for natural gas. These are suitable only for short‑distance flexible connections, such as temporary links between a portable cooking appliance and a fixed gas outlet, with a typical maximum service life of no more than two years (though some high‑quality stainless‑steel corrugated hoses can last up to eight years).

　　2. Security Comparison

　　Rigid pipe: highly resistant to corrosion, aging, and rodent damage; free from the risk of aging‑related cracking or leakage; with a service life exceeding 10 years under normal conditions; and unaffected by external tensile forces or deformation, offering exceptional stability.

　　Standard rubber hoses: Highly susceptible to rodent damage and to cracking due to high-temperature aging; over time, their sealing performance deteriorates, increasing the risk of gas leaks and posing serious safety hazards such as open-flame explosions and poisoning.

　　Dedicated stainless steel corrugated flexible hose: Offers safety comparable to rigid tubing, but if the fittings are not properly installed, there remains a risk of leakage; moreover, excessive bending can damage the internal structure.

　　3. Installation Specification Requirements

　　Rigid pipe installation requires qualified professionals to use specialized fittings for welding or threaded connections; the work demands strict adherence to technical standards and must not be altered without authorization.

　　Hose installation must use a dedicated gas‑fitting clamp for secure fastening; the installed length must not exceed 2 meters, and the hose must not pass through walls, span over the cooktop, or come into contact with high‑temperature heat sources. In addition, the connections should be inspected regularly to ensure they are tight.