LPG Gas Specifications Mobile Catering Van

by craggy
(stoke)

Hi I am trying to find gas specifications guidance for catering trailer/vans. I have to gas up a griddle, Baine Marie and water boiler.

I am going to install the pipework but not connect us as the quotes i was getting were way over the odds. I just need to know if its 15mm main gas pipe to a regulator and if the bends need to be the bolt on type connectors or solder type bend joints,. Once i get this in i will use a gas engineer to connect to appliances and do the gas cert ticket.

Has anyone got a spec sheet or can jut give me these details Cheers

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Jan 25, 2025
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by: David-

Finding a qualified LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) gas engineer who understands the needs of mobile catering (CMC) trailers is crucial for safety and compliance. Here’s a simple explanation and guide, including the differences between LPG and standard gas engineers:

What’s the Difference Between LPG and Standard CORGI/Gas Engineers?

CORGI vs. Gas Safe Register:

In the UK, CORGI used to be the gas registration body. It was replaced by the Gas Safe Register in 2009.
All gas engineers must now be registered with the Gas Safe Register to legally work on gas appliances.
LPG vs. Natural Gas:

Standard Gas Engineers: Trained to work on natural gas appliances in fixed properties (homes and businesses).
LPG Gas Engineers: Specially qualified to work on appliances powered by bottled or tanked LPG, commonly used in:

Mobile catering trailers.
Caravans and motorhomes.
Outdoor setups like BBQs and grills.
Mobile Catering (CMC) Qualification:

LPG engineers who work on catering trailers must have additional training in Commercial Mobile Catering (CMC).
This ensures they understand the unique safety requirements of gas appliances in mobile environments, including proper ventilation, secure fittings, and compliance with UK regulations.
How to Find a Qualified LPG Gas Engineer for Mobile Catering - Check the Gas Safe Register:

Visit the official website: Gas Safe Register.
Use their search tool to find engineers in your area who are qualified for LPG appliances and Commercial Mobile Catering.

Ask Questions Before Hiring:

Are they Gas Safe registered? Ask for their registration number and check it on the Gas Safe Register website.
Do they have the CMC qualification? This is crucial for mobile catering setups.
Have they worked on catering trailers before? Experience is key.
Join Mobile Catering Groups or Forums:

Networking with other mobile caterers is a great way to get recommendations for trusted LPG engineers.
Ask around on platforms like Facebook groups for mobile caterers or forums like Caterer Talk.
Visit Trade Events or Shows:

Mobile catering trade shows often feature exhibitors, including LPG gas engineers and specialists. It's a great way to meet experts in person.

Request Certification After Work:

After the work is complete, the engineer should provide a Gas Safety Certificate. This proves that your appliances are safe and compliant with UK regulations.
Why It’s Important to Hire the Right Engineer

Safety First: LPG appliances require proper installation to avoid risks like leaks, fires, or explosions.
Legal Compliance: UK law mandates that all gas work on catering trailers must be carried out by a qualified LPG gas engineer with the appropriate CMC training.

Peace of Mind: Knowing your trailer meets all safety standards protects your staff, customers, and business reputation.

In mobile catering, compression joints are widely used for connecting gas pipes and appliances. The sizes of compression joints you’ll need depend on the specific gas appliances and pipework in your catering trailer. Below is a breakdown to help you understand their use and standard sizes for LPG setups.

What Are Compression Joints?
Compression joints are fittings that join two sections of pipe or connect pipes to appliances. They use a nut and olive (a small ring) to create a gas-tight seal when tightened.
They’re commonly used in LPG gas systems for mobile catering because they allow easy disconnection and reassembly when maintaining or modifying your trailer setup.
Common Sizes of Compression Joints for Mobile Catering
The most common sizes in mobile catering for LPG pipework are:

Pipe Diameter Use in Mobile Catering
8mm (5/16") Ideal for small, low-demand appliances such as a single burner, small grills, or fryers.
10mm (3/8") Common for medium-demand appliances, such as tea urns, griddles, or fryers.
12mm (1/2") Typically used for higher-demand appliances or when running gas to multiple appliances.
Larger Sizes (15mm or more): These are generally used for main supply lines from gas bottles or regulators where the flow demand is high.
Choosing the Right Size
Check Appliance Requirements:

Each appliance will have a recommended pipe size specified in the manual or technical details.
For example:
A small bain-marie might need an 8mm connection.
A high-capacity griddle or fryer could require 12mm.
Consider Gas Flow:

If multiple appliances are connected to the same gas line, you may need a larger diameter to ensure consistent gas flow.
For example:
A single griddle on its own could use 10mm.
Two appliances connected to one line might require 12mm.
Regulator Compatibility:

The regulator on your LPG bottle will have an outlet size that typically matches your main pipe size (e.g., 12mm).
Ensure the fittings you use are compatible with your regulator and appliances.
Tips for Compression Joints in Mobile Catering
Use Brass Fittings:

Brass compression joints are the standard for LPG systems because they are durable, gas-tight, and resistant to corrosion.
Avoid Over-Tightening:

Tighten the compression nut just enough to stop leaks but not so much that the olive gets damaged or distorted.
Test for Leaks:

Always use a gas leak detection spray after installation or maintenance to ensure there are no leaks at the joints.
Follow UK Gas Safety Regulations:

Only a qualified LPG engineer with Gas Safe CMC certification should install or modify gas pipework in your trailer.
The engineer will determine the correct pipe size and fittings during installation. Always seek a professional lpg certified engineer. You may do the work yourself, but if its not safe, you could put yourself and others in serious danger

Sep 01, 2024
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Gas work
by: Anonymous

I done the gas work myself and told the gas engineer i bought it like that he passed it

May 30, 2024
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Pipe work
by: Anonymous

I have a catering trailer all gas work done when i bought it but no gas cert will a gas enginer pass it if they didnt do the work ?

Apr 09, 2024
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Pipes work
by: Anonymous

What size pipes have to be fitted in a catering van also can you use compression joints

Feb 21, 2015
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gas engineers can be so very expensive.
by: Anonymous

Hi, It can be hard work. I found a very good qualified gas engineer who is not too expensive- after calling around 60 numbers from the gas register website!!!!!. I can pass on his details. Where are you?

May 17, 2014
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SAFETY TICKET
by: Anonymous

To be able to issue a ticket any engineer has to do a course for a week and cost of £800, so pay the money, or kill yourself, as an engineer I would not connect your appliances to your pipework !

Mar 24, 2014
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cheers
by: Anonymous

Hi Im going to track down some trailer builders and get quotes thanks, it may actually be a better idea than the gassafe website as they will already know or indeed do the work.
Gr8
Cheers
Craig

Mar 24, 2014
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Stay Safe
by: David

Hello There,

Do try and get some quotes for the work as this can vary greatly. I understand that cost will also be a big factor, but you don't want to get to a point where those cost will increase if other work is needed at a later date.

Also try searching the Gas Safe Register

Be safe and the best of luck,

David

Mar 23, 2014
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thanks
by: Anonymous

Many thanks, it is my preferred method however locally they dont seem to want the work as only 4 things to gas up and 2 sections of 15mm, one quy quoted 2k for this?? and £80 for the ticket. is crazy as he said would take him 4 hrs to do the work, i will try and find others through the routes you suggest as its setting me back now over 3 weeks trying to find someone. Many Thanks

Mar 22, 2014
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LPG Gas Specifications
by: Brain

Hi There,

You need to be a qualified gas fitter with the lp1cmc qualification, not only to fit and connect an appliance but the gas pipework as well. This is a requirement under the gas safety installation and use regulations; this qualification includes the ability to correctly size pipework and regulators. There are a whole host of other regulations relating to routing of pipework in relation electrics.

You are unlikely to find a properly qualified gas fitter willing to sign off your work as his own, which may mean extra expense in alterations to pass an LPG test. You will need this test certificate as most even organisers/local council will want this document before you can trade. So please bear this mind before you start work.

DIY work is one of the reasons I tend only to work for manufacturers, based on the number of times I've had to walk away from a customer who, having carried out the work themselves, has not met the regulations and just wants to argue the regulations.

Get some quotes from trailer manufacturers to have the refurbishment work carried out professionally is my advice.

Best,
Brian

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LPG Gas Specifications Mobile Catering Van

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