What material is used to construct the outer wall of a type "B" vent?

Type "B" vents are specifically designed for venting gas appliances and are constructed to safely exhaust combustion gases away from a building. The outer wall of a type "B" vent is made from galvanized steel due to several important properties of this material.

Galvanized steel is both durable and corrosion-resistant, which is essential in a venting system that will be exposed to varying temperatures and potentially corrosive environments. The galvanized coating provides a protective layer that helps prevent rust and deterioration over time, ensuring the longevity and safety of the venting system. Additionally, the structural integrity of galvanized steel supports the weight and stresses that a vent pipe may encounter during its operation.

While other materials, like stainless steel or copper, have their applications in vent systems, they do not fit the standard specifications for a type "B" vent, which require the unique properties of galvanized steel to function effectively under the specific operating conditions associated with gas appliance venting. Plastic is not suitable for this application due to its lower heat resistance. Understanding these materials and their appropriate uses is key in ensuring that venting systems are installed correctly and safely.