Blog Category: ENGINEERED SPRING SUPPORTS

Custom Designed Upthrust Constant Spring Supports
November 19, 2024

Custom Designed Upthrust Constant Spring Supports

PT&P designed Fig. PTP 200-U upthrust constant spring supports modified to accommodate an increased installed height. PT&P fabricated these constant assemblies from A36 carbon steel. They were designed for temperatures up to 185°F, and a load of 15,737 lb. The constants are capable of a downward total travel of 2″ and are 61″ L x 25″ W x 39″ H. Standard load and travel tests were conducted prior to shipment.

When it comes to supporting piping and related components that experience significant vertical movement, constant spring supports are the go-to solution. These specialized supports are designed to keep the load consistent throughout the full range of movement, eliminating any significant deviations. But what makes them indispensable for industrial applications? Let’s break it down.

What Are Constant Spring Supports?

Constant springs maintain a steady supporting force as pipes expand and contract due to temperature changes. They come in horizontal or vertical designs and can be customized to handle various loads, movements, and configurations. Their ability to adapt to dynamic conditions ensures the integrity and efficiency of piping systems across diverse industries.

Key Benefits of Constant Spring Supports

  1. Manage Pipe Movement: Handle changes in pipe position caused by temperature fluctuations.
  2. Maintain Alignment: Prevent misalignment, ensuring pipes stay in proper positions.
  3. Reduce Thermal Stress: Minimize stress caused by thermal expansion and contraction.
  4. Adapt to Variable Loads: Provide reliable support in changing conditions.
  5. Versatility: Perfect for both high-temperature and cryogenic systems.

Constant spring supports find their way into a wide range of applications, including:

  • Piping Systems: Essential in refineries, power plants, and chemical processing facilities.
  • HVAC Systems: Support ducts in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
  • Steam Systems: Ensure proper alignment in steam piping for manufacturing and power generation.
  • Oil and Gas Pipelines: Compensate for temperature changes over long distances.
  • Process Equipment: Safeguard reactors, heat exchangers, and vessels from stress-induced damage.
  • Rotating Equipment: Reduce stress on pumps and compressors by supporting connected piping, prolonging equipment life.

Spotlight on U-Type Constant Springs

U-Type constant springs are particularly popular for their ability to provide steady support to pipelines, ducts, and other structures experiencing thermal movement. These springs play a vital role in maintaining system integrity and preventing damage across various industrial settings.

From managing thermal expansion in pipelines to safeguarding critical equipment, constant spring supports are the unsung heroes of industrial operations. Their reliability and adaptability make them an invaluable asset across countless applications.

At our Houston-based facility, we design and manufacture constant spring supports with unmatched speed and precision. Operating 24/7, we are equipped to handle both small emergency orders and large-scale production needs. Our expertise spans industries like energy, oil & gas, petrochemicals, manufacturing, and more—delivering solutions globally. Our wide range of industry expertise demonstrates our unique ability to provide solutions across the globe in every sector we serve.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03242015

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Big Ton Spring Supports Custom Designed for a Chemical Plant in Singapore
October 22, 2024

Big Ton Spring Supports Custom Designed For A Chemical Plant In Singapore

Type: Big Ton Spring Supports
Material: Carbon Steel/SAE 5160H
Design: 1.75″ up & Operating Load 130,642 N
Testing: Standard Load & Travel Tests

PT&P custom designed big ton spring supports for a chemical plant in Singapore. These supports are ideal for bearing the weight of large, heavy equipment such as compressors, vessels, and pumps in power and petrochemical plants. The supports feature a carbon steel housing and frame, with a spring coil made from SAE 5160H. The design allows for a controlled movement of 1.75 inches upward under an operating load of 130,642 N. This solution prevents the need for a complete redesign of the piping system, offering significant cost savings to the customer. These custom Big Ton supports were delivered within six weeks.

Throughout the years, we’ve encountered numerous instances where clients have approached us with unique and unconventional applications requiring either a completely new product or modifications to an existing one. A prime example is our Big Ton, which was developed in response to a client’s request for a support capable of bearing 1 million pounds. We’ve designed Big Tons for a range of industries, including LNG, petrochemical, refining, and PDH facilities. Beyond design and manufacturing, these supports undergo thorough in-house testing by our QC teams to ensure full functionality before being shipped to the client. Click here to watch a video to see how this support can be adjusted in the field.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 12262017

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Compact Spring Supports Designed for an Oil Refinery
October 15, 2024

Compact Spring Supports Designed For 9K Load At An Oil Refinery

Type: Compact Spring Supports
Material: Carbon Steel w/ Hot-Dipped Galvanized (HDG)
Design: 9,000 lb. Load | +/-0.125″ Vertical Movement
Testing: Load Testing

PT&P custom-designed 76 compact spring supports also known as “disc spring” supports, for a major oil refinery. These specialized supports are ideal for placement beneath equipment flanges to minimize excessive loads on delicate machinery. As an industry leader, PT&P has been supplying custom compact springs globally for over a decade.

Compact spring supports are essential for small-travel systems, helping prevent equipment failures, ensuring safe plant operations, and reducing operational costs. They provide the same load-bearing capacity as conventional springs while requiring 50% less space. If unaddressed, pipe strain can lead to issues such as misalignment, thermal expansion, and pipe lift-off, placing undue stress on expensive equipment.

In a typical refinery, pipe strain-related problems can result in pump repair costs exceeding $15 million annually. Compact springs play a vital role in supporting centrifugal pumps, compressors, air-cooled heat exchangers, vessels, and steam turbines. Additionally, they help facilities meet regulatory standards, including API, ASME, UBC, and compliance requirements from OSHA, EPA, WISHA, and other governing bodies.

The springs are constructed with stainless steel Belleville washers, while the housings are made from A-36 carbon steel and finished with a hot-dipped galvanized coating for corrosion resistance. Each assembly stands 3 inches tall, designed to support a 9,000-pound load with a movement capacity of +/- 0.125 inches (upward). Prior to shipment, every assembly underwent rigorous load testing to ensure performance.

Compact springs are engineered to reduce excessive loads on process equipment by effectively managing nozzle loads and maintaining flange seals. They can be installed directly beneath equipment, offering both space efficiency and performance reliability. Additionally, these springs are ideal for corrosive environments, such as those exposed to saltwater, marine air, or harsh chemicals. By utilizing corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or applying amorphous glass coatings, compact springs are built to withstand even the most challenging conditions.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 10192021

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Variable Supports Fabricated in 48 hours for an Emergency Plant Shutdown
October 1, 2024

Variable Spring Supports Fabricated In Less Than 48 Hours For An Emergency Plant Shutdown Overseas In The Asia-Pacific Region

PT&P received a rush order for variable spring supports at 4:41 pm, quite late into the workday; however, this is business as usual, our manufacturing facility in Houston, TX operates 24/7 to support our customers.

Variable Spring Supports Fabricated In Less Than 48 Hours For An Emergency Plant Shutdown Overseas In The Asia-Pacific Region Variable Spring Supports Fabricated In Less Than 48 Hours For An Emergency Plant Shutdown Overseas In The Asia-Pacific Region
In this case, the customer’s olefins plant was experiencing significant losses and urgently needed to replace the springs to resume operations. Seven variable springs were designed, fabricated, and shipped within just two days to minimize downtime.

The F-type variable spring support is designed to support piping from below, directly from the foundation, concrete column, or supporting structural pipe rack steel. Adjustment is made by inserting a bar into holes in the load column and turning the load column as a jackscrew. As global leaders in variable spring manufacturing, we leveraged our adaptive manufacturing processes, utilizing pre-fabricated in-house components that allow for quick assembly as soon as orders are placed.

These variables were fabricated from carbon steel and hot-dipped galvanized for corrosion protection. They are designed to support loads ranging from 713 lb. to 1668 lb. and movements of 0.148″ to 0.133″. Load and travel tests, along with Q.C. inspections were performed before shipment.

Variable springs are used in many applications that include:

 

  • Paper and Pulp Mills
  • Petrochemical refineries for plastics, chemicals, polymers
  • Renewable plants for solar, carbon black, hydrogen, blue ammonia, and biochar facilities
  • Power plants for nuclear and fossil fuel power

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 04132021

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100-E Type Constant Spring Supports Custom Designed for a Power Plant in Canada
September 17, 2024

100-E Type Constant Spring Supports Custom Designed For A Power Plant In Canada

Type: Constant Spring Supports
Size: 52 1/4″ x 62 1/8″
Material: Carbon Steel
Design: Operating Load 21,600 to 26,350 lbs & of 3-7” of Movement
Testing: Standard Load & Travel Tests

PT&P custom designed and manufactured constant spring supports for a power plant in Canada. Four constant assemblies were fabricated using carbon steel and hot-dip galvanized to prevent corrosion. The custom-designed constants, sized and identified as 100-73 Type-E and 100-69 Type-E, were manufactured for a thermochemical process within the plant. These supports are designed for operating loads of 21,600 lbs. and 26,350 lbs., respectively, both with an operating movement of 3.7 inches. Load and travel testing were completed before shipment.

Constant spring supports are used for piping and related components where higher levels of vertical travel occur. Their job is to support the working load over the whole travel area while keeping it constant, i.e. without any considerable deviations. Constant spring supports are available in horizontal or vertical designs, and in a variety of sizes to accommodate different loads, movements, and hanger arrangements.

They maintain a consistent support force as pipes expand or contract with temperature changes. This helps:

      • Manage Pipe Movement: Accommodates changes in pipe position due to temperature variations.
      • Maintain Alignment: Keeps pipes properly aligned, preventing misalignment issues.
      • Reduce Thermal Stress: Minimizes stress caused by thermal expansion and contraction.
      • Handle Variable Loads: Provides reliable support under varying conditions.
      • Ensure Versatility: Suitable for both high-temperature and cryogenic systems.

Our capability to quickly design and manufacture these supports is unmatched in the industry. Our Houston-based operations run 24/7, ensuring we can handle small emergency requests and maintain high production capacity for our clients’ needs. Constant springs can be used in several applications. We have designed and manufactured for different industries all over the world. Some of the industries we have supported are energy and utilities, geothermal, oil & gas, petrochemical & chemical, renewable energy & environmental solutions, industrial & manufacturing, and infrastructure.

Our wide range of industry expertise demonstrates our unique ability to provide solutions across the globe in every sector we serve.

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Variable Springs for a Propane Dehydrogenation Unit in Texas
August 27, 2024

Variable Spring Supports For A Propane Dehydrogenation Unit In Texas

Type: Variable Spring Supports
Size: Accommodate Elevation Difference up to 11′-5″
Material: Carbon Steel | Hot-dipped Galvanized
Design: 20,000 lb. Load | 4,700 lb./in. Spring Rate

PT&P designed and manufactured over 50 variable spring supports for a propane dehydrogenation (PDH) unit in Texas. The components, including the spring cans, rods, welded beam attachments, turnbuckles, and clevises, were fabricated from hot-dipped galvanized carbon steel to ensure durability and corrosion resistance. These variable spring supports are engineered to accommodate an elevation difference of up to 11’-5″ from the bottom of the steel structure to the pipe connection. They are designed to handle an operating load of 20,000 lb., with a spring rate of 4,700 lb./in., and facilitate a 0.007″ upward movement. Each support underwent standard load testing before being shipped to ensure they met the required specifications and performance standards.
In addition to spring supports, PDH units require other products from the Piping Technology and Products portfolio. Our field service team regularly works with PDH units by doing inspections and fine-tuning the supports because of the heavy loads the equipment requires. The experience of our team coupled with the knowledge and access to our specialized tools and equipment has clients calling us on a regular basis.
Spring supports are one example of what we can provide, but we also have designed and manufactured floating rings, fabric and metallic expansion joints, slide plates, constant supports, and fabricated pipe shoes, guides, and anchors in PDH units. PDH plants have the unique challenge of having high-temperature requirements.

Increasing demand for propylene in various industries such as automotive, packaging, and construction is driving the growth of the PDH unit market. Propylene is a key ingredient in the production of various plastics and synthetic materials, which are in high demand globally. Rising investments in petrochemical infrastructure in emerging economies, particularly in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, are creating new opportunities for PDH unit manufacturers. The increasing demand for petrochemical products in these regions is driving the installation of new PDH units.

Variable spring supports are widely used in various industrial applications where pipelines, equipment, or structures experience vertical movement due to thermal expansion, weight changes, or other dynamic loads. Some common applications are heat exchangers, reactors, steam pipelines, high-temperature piping, and pumping stations to name a few. At PT&P, we specialize in designing and manufacturing custom variable spring supports tailored to meet the specific needs of both new plant constructions and retrofitting projects. Our expertise extends to creating custom solutions that seamlessly integrate into existing applications in older plants, even when the design is based on a competitor’s model. This flexibility ensures that our clients receive the optimal support system for their unique requirements, regardless of the plant’s age or existing infrastructure.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 11062018

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Variable Spring Supports for a Major Pipeline Expansion Project
July 30, 2024

Ptp Variable Spring 182218

PT&P supplied F-type variable spring supports for a pipeline 1150 km (715 miles) long carrying various kinds of crude and refined products including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. By removing the old pipeline and replacing it with a larger diameter pipeline, the capacity of this line tripled the previous capacity allowing for it to carry 85% more of what is transported through British Columbia. This increased, in turn, oil tanker capacity at the terminal seven times.

These spring supports are designed for small movements and operating loads ranging from 15,679 lb. to 19,688 lb. The housing is fabricated from A-36 carbon steel, hot-dipped galvanized, and then painted with 3 different coats (primer, intermediate, and topcoat) of paint to protect against the harsh Canadian winters while providing long-term protection against corrosion. These variables will include PTFE, 25% glass filled, and slide plates welded to the top of the load flange to allow for translational movement. Each spring is load tested and then preset to the specified installed load and inspected for quality assurance before shipment.

Why PT&P? For this particular project, the PT&P team worked with the client through the client’s six-month bidding process on the project. Our unique combination of experience, engineering expertise, and production knowledge enabled customers to secure the project. PTP addressed coating considerations, and technical queries, and met the demanding delivery needs of the project. PT&P’s turnaround time from PO receipt to the material on-site was 10 weeks.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02012022

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Custom Compact Springs Designed to Support a Storage Tank
July 15, 2024

PT&P partnered with Disc Spring Technology (DST) and is now manufacturing the compact spring support. Resolve your overloaded pump/ heat exchanger/ vessel nozzle loads with the DST Compact Spring Support. The DST Compact Spring Support is specifically designed to relieve excess loading on process equipment.

Benefits: Minimizes excessive loads on sensitive equipment, same load for smaller working range (25-50% less space), ideal for locating under equipment flanges & reduces design time, maintenance cost, and accidents.

Custom Compact Springs Designed To Support A Storage Tank

Type: Compact Spring Supports
Material: A-36 Carbon Steel | HDG | Stainless Steel
Design: 0.25″ Movement (upward) | 5,000 lb. Load
Testing: Load and Travel Testing

These compact spring supports were custom-designed to support a storage tank at a facility in Texas. The housing was fabricated from A-36 carbon steel and hot-dipped galvanized to protect them against corrosion. The disc springs are engineered using the stainless steel Belleville disc springs designed for large loads but small movements. In this case, the springs are designed to support a load of 5,000 lb. and movement of 0.25" (upward). The installed height can range from 5" to 10" depending on the client-specified load and movement. As a result, compact springs are ideal for "tight spaces" such as modular process skid mounted piping, machinery, and equipment for military and industrial applications. Disc springs can also be installed beneath rotating equipment (such as pumps and compressors) to help reduce or eliminate the transfer of vibration to associated steel and concrete structures. Each of these assemblies underwent load testing and visual inspection prior to shipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 10092017

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Big Ton Spring Supports Designed for an LNG Facility in Australia
June 18, 2024

Big Ton Spring Supports Designed For An Lng Facility In Australia

These big ton variable spring assemblies were custom designed for an LNG plant in Western Australia. They were specially designed with PTFE, 25% glass-filled slide plates, and will be used to both support the vertical load and allow thermal growth of horizontal pressure vessel saddle supports. These units measure 30″ x 30″ and are capable of supporting a load up to 95,000 lb. with down travel of 2 to 5mm vertical.

Horizontal pressure vessels are used in a wide range of industries as storage containers, separation tanks, or settling drums. Our Big Ton springs have also been designed and manufactured to support very large Gasifiers. These units mix air, steam, and coal under high temperatures/pressures to produce syngas which is considered a source of renewable energy because it’s more efficient than direct combustion of the original feedstock (coal) since it can be combusted at higher temperatures so that the thermodynamic upper limit produces better efficiency.

As one of the first companies to design, manufacture, and test big tons, we possess the engineering expertise, testing, and “know-how” in order to meet or exceed many of our client’s expectations. Our exceptional design team is able to build 3D models and perform FEAs in order to ascertain optimum designs for big tons for given applications.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02092016

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U-Type Constant Spring Supports Designed for an LNG Plant in Canada
May 28, 2024

U-Type Constant Spring Supports Designed For An Lng Plant In Canada

PT&P designed U-Type constant spring supports for an LNG plant in Canada. These are horizontal constants designed to support piping from below where the base plate is bolted directly to the top of the steel or the foundation using anchor bolts. These specific constant springs are designed to support an operating load of 67,420 lb. with 6″ of total upward travel. The constants are fabricated from galvanized carbon steel for protection against corrosion. Standard load and travel testing were completed to ensure the quality and performance of these constants.
U-Type constant springs are commonly used in industrial applications where there is a need to support pipelines, ducts, or other structures subjected to thermal expansion or contraction. These springs are designed to provide a constant supporting force over a defined range of movement, typically in response to temperature changes. Here are some specific applications where U-Type constant springs might be used:

  1. Piping Systems: In industrial plants, refineries, chemical processing facilities, and power plants, pipelines are often subjected to temperature fluctuations due to the flow of hot fluids. U-Type constant springs can be employed to support these pipelines and compensate for thermal expansion or contraction, preventing excessive stress on the piping system.
  2. HVAC Systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems often involve ductwork that expands and contracts with changes in temperature. U-Type constant springs can be installed to support HVAC ducts and accommodate thermal movements, ensuring structural integrity and preventing damage.
  3. Steam Systems: Steam distribution systems in industries such as power generation, food processing, and manufacturing also require support for piping subjected to thermal expansion. U-Type constant springs are used to maintain proper alignment and support in steam piping systems, preventing issues such as pipe stress and misalignment.
  4. Oil and Gas Pipelines: In the oil and gas industry, pipelines are essential for transporting crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum products over long distances. U-Type constant springs help support these pipelines and compensate for temperature changes, ensuring the reliability and safety of the transportation infrastructure.
  5. Process Equipment: Various types of process equipment, such as reactors, heat exchangers, and vessels, experience thermal expansion and contraction during operation. U-Type constant springs may be employed to support and compensate for the movement of such equipment, reducing the risk of damage and prolonging service life.

U-Type constant springs play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity and reliability of industrial systems and equipment subjected to thermal expansion or contraction.

Constant springs are sometimes installed near rotating equipment such as pumps and compressors used in manufacturing, mining operations, utilities, oil and gas extraction, and cross-country pipelines. By providing constant support to piping leading to rotating equipment subject to both vertical and horizontal movement, these types of spring hangers help to decrease stresses imposed on rotating equipment, thereby extending the life of the bearings and seals within these units.

In our continued efforts to meet projects needs for operationally best in class design with the lowest cost and time to market we created the world’s smallest constant spring support.

Nano Constant
We have designed and built constants for not only refineries, LNG, geothermal plants, petrochemical plants, and renewable energy facilities. The use applications include coker replacement, debottlenecking of furnace operations, installation of a new VDU (vacuum distillation unit) heater, tube, and heater replacement, and flare gas recovery units where the installation of constant spring hangers helped to improve the efficiency of the system or process.

Constant spring supports alongside our portfolio of products are shipped worldwide from our Houston, Texas headquarters, where all our products are manufactured. We are open for plant tours. If you are interested, please let us know so we can schedule some time with your team.

 

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 05102016

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