What is a likely outcome of installing all metal fittings of standard quality in piping systems?

The outcome of installing all metal fittings of standard quality in piping systems is indeed higher likelihood of corrosion and leaks. Metal fittings, especially if not designed or treated to resist corrosion, can deteriorate when exposed to certain environmental conditions, chemicals, or moisture over time. This deterioration can lead to the development of leaks, which pose risks for operational safety and environmental protection, particularly in areas involving fuel storage.

Corrosion typically occurs when metal surfaces come into contact with water or when they are exposed to certain chemical compounds, leading to rust formation and degradation of the metal. Without adequate protection measures such as corrosion-resistant coatings or the use of non-corrosive materials, standard metal fittings can become compromised, thus increasing the likelihood of leaks that could contaminate surrounding soil and groundwater.

In contrast, while increased efficiency of fuel transfer, reduced installation costs, and improved air pressure retention are desirable attributes of a piping system, they do not directly correlate with the use of standard metal fittings. In fact, these factors can often be negatively impacted by corrosion-related issues that arise from using standard metal materials without sufficient protective qualities. Therefore, the identification of increased likelihood of corrosion and leaks as a consequence of using standard quality metal fittings is accurate and reflects a critical consideration for UST systems.