TinnerFlow™4th YearRound / SpiralYELLOW · Check First
Bulging or unzipping spiral pipe means the pipe/joint is not handling the pressure or system condition. Stop the test/startup and verify gauge, pressure class, joint, and replacement/reinforcement options.
Spiral pipe is strong when it is the right material, gauge, diameter, seam, and pressure class for the system. If the lockseam starts bulging or opening, that is not a normal leak; it is a mechanical failure warning.
The field recovery is usually replacement with correctly rated factory pipe or an approved structural repair sleeve/detail if allowed. Also check whether a damper, cap, or control issue caused an abnormal pressure spike.
Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.