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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