Is it ok to use metal stud bushings, designed for electrical cables, for cpvc pipes even though the bushings are very loose around the pipes. See image below.

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I am a little concerned because I have read that if the pipes are not secured enough they can move around and rattle inside the walls, especially if you have any water hammer.

Unlike these electrical bushings, the pipe clamps below fit tight around the pipes.

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The upside is that the large bushings give me a lot of leeway in case my stud holes aren't lined up perfectly.

If I use these large bore electrical bushings for my 3/4" lines, they will basically be floating in my walls. However, I might be ok, because my 1/2" branch lines will be secured well....with the tight pipe clamps and drop elbows screwed to wood blocking between studs.

I don't understand why Lowes or Home Depot don't offer the metal stud bushings for PIPE below.

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I had to go to the electrical department to get these bushings and the packaging doesn't mention using them for plumbing. If they were acceptable for plumbing, you would think the marketing department would make sure to mention it on the packaging.

use the electrical bushings and smush a small piece of foam pipe insulation around the pipe.
sort of like a bushing inside a bushing.
no need to be fancy...

Go to a plumbing supply store and get the correct ones. In fact there are several different versions, some which are screwed to the studs, and others that 'snap in'.

Ok, thanks Packy and HJ.

I'm having the same problem with nail guards for metal studs. The big stores don't carry them, just guards for wood studs. I guess I will have to go to a specialty shop for those too....maybe a lumber yard.

They are on the shelf, next to the bucket of steam.

which is next to the dough patch...i use to work at a pizza joint.

They are called "FHA straps" and screw to the studs to protect the pipes.

hj.....could you post a link where those are found?

ANY plumbing supply store in your area has them. We use them by the boxful.

Metal stud bushing saves money and easy to install. Metal stud is having the precut holes which are designed to accommodate both electrical and plumbing lines. You can use metal stud bushing which are used in non-metallic stud bushing fits most hole configurations found in pre-punched steel studs, Protects wire without falling out of the hole etc. May due to this features you will be able to use where you want.

Metal studs have preformed openings, but other than for electrical wires, they are seldom where they have to be for plumbing, so we punch our own holes where we need them.

On second thought, I do remember seeing these FHA straps in the "metal connectors for wood framing" section of the large hardware stores. I didn't like them because they weren't snap-on so they require screws which is more work.

In addition, I was concerned the screw heads would push the overlaying wallboard out leaving a bump in the wall. But, then again, the screws used to connect the studs to the tracks have heads too. But at least those screws are at the very top and bottom of the wall where they are either covered by trim or less noticeable.

Here's a photo...[www.fhaplates.com]

They are too "heavy" to snap on so they are always screwed on, although I suppose you could magnetize them and stick them to the metal studs.



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