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Pipe Support Walkdowns
July 7, 2025

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Even the best-designed piping systems can deteriorate over time or encounter challenges due to improper installation or maintenance cycles that need updating.  

A pipe support that’s even half an inch too low can throw off alignment, especially for sensitive rotating equipment. Improper alignment of pipe shoes set at the wrong height, spring cans locked in place due to shipping, or non-functioning pipe supports can go unnoticed, and sometimes not until a costly unexpected shutdown occurs. 

A pipe support walkdown, performed by subject matter experts (SMEs), helps identify these issues before they become costly.

Solution: What is a Pipe Support Walkdown and How Does it Help?

A pipe support walkdown is a field-based verification process for any system using pipe supports or rotating equipment. 

A qualified technician or engineer inspects the installed pipe supports to confirm everything matches the design intent and is safe for operation. That means:

  • Verifying metallic expansion joints are properly aligned, anchors are secure, and shipping bars or restraints are removed to allow unrestricted axial or lateral movement during system operation.
  • Checking spring hangers are unlocked and set to the right load.
  • Verifying hold-downs, clamps, and anchors are tightened and positioned correctly.
  • Catching missing or incorrectly installed components before startup.
  • Ensuring fabric expansion joints are installed without twisting or distortion, frames are properly sealed, and flow direction indicators are correctly oriented to prevent leaks or premature wear.

A pipe support walkdown is not paperwork review. It’s boots-on-the-ground risk prevention.

 

Key Safety and Performance Benefits

  • Prevents startup failures by identifying locked supports, improper loading, or misalignment.
  • Protects against stress failures like cracked welds or ruptured anchors
  • Verifies load positions so pipe weight transfers as intended
  • Quickly identifies worn or failing rubber, fabric and metallic expansion joints
  • Confirms movement clearance for thermal expansion
  • Reduces incident risk for maintenance and operations teams

Engineer’s Take: Technical Insurance for the System

Walkdowns provide engineers with a final check on real-world variables, such as actual pipe weights, true centerlines, and friction conditions. They’re essential for validating that thermal movement will be absorbed by the system as designed, not resisted due to incorrect installation. For supports like spring hangers and slide plates, this is the only way to confirm field settings match the spec.

 

Project Manager’s Take: Stop Delays Before They Start

For PMs, plant walk downs are a high-leverage activity. One afternoon walk can prevent weeks of delay from an avoidable error. They reduce RFIs, holdbacks, and rework providing owners with confidence during system turnover. By validating installs, walk-downs keep your project on schedule and helps avoid costly failures and shutdowns.

 

Pipe Supports to Check and Verify During Walkdowns

  • Variable spring hangers
  • Constant supports
  • Rubber, fabric, and metallic expansion joints
  • Sway struts, snubbers, and anchors
  • And more

 

Contact our field service team to schedule a pipe support walkdown today. Reduce risk. Validate performance. Finish strong.

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PTFE Slide Plates: Built for Real-World Movement
June 29, 2025

Custom Designed PTFE Slide Plate and Pipe Shoe Assemblies

Our custom-engineered pipe shoe assemblies frequently incorporate a Teflon® slide plate assembly to safely accommodate thermal expansion and contraction in heavy industrial piping. Using high-quality Teflon® (also called PTFE) slide plates reduces the coefficient of friction between the pipe shoe and the supporting structural foundation.

These specialized slide plates are designed to prevent structural damage, metal galling, and dangerous stress build-ups at attachment points. Whether your application requires standard Teflon® slide plates or custom-bonded configurations for extreme compressive loads, these assemblies ensure smooth, maintenance-free movement across your piping network.

What’s at Stake in the Field

Whether it’s a pipe shoe sliding on a beam or a heavy vessel on embedded steel, surface friction can lock systems in place, causing stress and damage. Without the right slide interface, steel-on-steel friction causes wear, cracking, and eventually system failure. 

PTFE slide plates resolve this issue by reducing friction and maintaining structural alignment, which is especially crucial during thermal cycling. As temperatures fluctuate, pipes expand and contract, and the slide plates allow for this pipe movement without stressing supports or causing misalignment.

How PTFE Slide Plates Work

PTFE slide plates are two-part assemblies. PTFE is bonded to a carbon steel bottom plate and is also bonded to the top plate, which makes up the slide plate assembly. Once the bottom assembly is attached to the existing steel and the upper assembly is connected to the bottom of a pipe shoe or trunnion, a low-friction surface is created, allowing for both axial and lateral movement. The PTFE layers are mated from the upper and lower assemblies, allowing movement between the moving component and a fixed support beam or surface.

The result: Easy, controlled movement that reduces load transfer to anchors, minimizes friction, and extends equipment life.

Real-World Example: Natural Gas Pipeline Using PTFE Slide Plates

An international pipeline construction company partnered with us to supply PTFE slide plates for a major gas pipeline project in Africa.

The slide plate assemblies supported pipe shoes mounted on structural steel beams, accommodating both axial and lateral movement while maintaining structural stability.. 

We engineered and delivered twenty guided cradle supports, ranging in size from 8″ to 30″. Each was fabricated from carbon steel and painted for corrosion resistance.  

Thanks to our in-house inventory of PTFE, we accelerated production and avoided costly field delays, delivering exactly what the project needed, right on time.

Where PTFE Slide Plates Are Used

  • LNG terminals
  • Petrochemical plants
  • Refineries
  • Power plants
  • Beneath equipment like pumps and compressors
  • On spring supports 
  • Bridges: Highway bridges, overpasses, railroad bridges
  • Cross-beam and girder slip joints

Key Benefits of PTFE Slide Plates in the Field

  • Produces a low coefficient of friction between a stationary support element and the moving pipe support component
  • Enables controlled pipe movement to prevent overstress during thermal expansion
  • Ideal for low-heat and high-velocity conditions.
  • Minimizes friction between steel components, reducing wear
  • Pairs easily with other supports like pipe shoes and spring cans
  • Operates effectively from –320°F to +500°F, maintaining its low-friction properties across this wide temperature range

Engineer’s Take: Why Choose Our PTFE Slide Plates

PTFE slide plates are a trusted choice for engineers thanks to their high load-handling capacity, consistent low-friction performance, and long-term durability. 

We offer sizes ranging from 4″ x 4″ to 12″ x 12″ (and larger if needed), engineered to support both lateral and axial movement without compromising structural integrity. 

Unlike most suppliers, we stock PTFE in-house, ensuring faster lead times and dependable availability. We can custom-manufacture slide plates to your exact specifications, including custom shapes, thicknesses, and bonding requirements. 

PTFE is easy to install, requires no surface treatment or grouting, and performs reliably in all weather conditions, making it a smart, low-maintenance solution for demanding applications. 

Project Manager’s Take

From the project manager’s perspective, these plates solve several key problems: they reduce rework caused by misaligned pipe shoes, eliminate costly delays waiting for movement-compatible supports, and help preserve the integrity of anchors and foundations. With our rapid turnaround and in-house inventory, you can keep the installation on track and avoid any extended wait time.

Products Often Paired with PTFE Slide Plates

PTFE slide plates are commonly ordered with:

  • Pipe shoes
  • Hold-down clamps
  • Type F variable springs
  • Big Tons
  • Spectacle Blinds 
  • Embed Plates 
  • Pipe Saddles

Why Choose Piping Technology for Your Slide Plate Needs?

At Piping Technology, we stock over one million pounds of mixed inventory (including PTFE), enabling us to manufacture custom slide plates quickly and ship them fast. 

Our slide plates are available in a range of materials, including PTFE, graphite, bronzphite, stainless steel, and more, to meet the unique demands of your project.

We specialize in engineering cost-effective, custom solutions for complex piping challenges. Consult with one of our engineers today to discuss sizing, compatibility, or application needs, or Request a Quote to get pricing and lead times for your next project.

 

FAQs

Q: What is the main advantage of using a Teflon® slide plate assembly? 

A: The primary advantage of a Teflon® slide plate assembly is its exceptionally low coefficient of friction. This allows heavy piping systems to glide smoothly during thermal expansion, minimizing lateral stress on the overall support structure.

 

Q: How do PTFE slide plates differ from standard metal-to-metal supports? 

A: Unlike metal-to-metal supports that can suffer from galling, corrosion, and high friction, PTFE slide plates provide a self-lubricating, non-reactive surface that facilitates effortless movement and prevents mechanical wear over time.

 

Q: Are Teflon® slide plates suitable for high-temperature applications? 

A: While Teflon® slide plates are highly durable and chemically inert, they generally have a maximum continuous operating temperature of around 400°F. For temperatures exceeding this limit, graphite or high-temperature metallic slide bearings are typically recommended.

 

Q: How are slide plates attached to the structural steel and pipe shoe? 

A: In a typical installation, the upper element of the slide plates (often polished stainless steel) is welded to the pipe shoe, while the lower PTFE-bonded element is secured to the stationary structural steel, creating a low-friction interface between the two.

 

Q: Can a Teflon® slide plate assembly handle heavy vertical loads? 

A: Yes. When properly engineered and bonded to a rigid steel backing plate, a Teflon® slide plate assembly can withstand immense compressive loads from large-bore piping without experiencing excessive deformation or “cold flow.”

 

Q: Why might an engineer specify glass-filled PTFE slide plates instead of virgin PTFE? 

A: Glass-filled PTFE slide plates are often specified because the addition of glass fibers increases the material’s compressive strength and wear resistance, making it significantly better suited for heavier load applications than pure virgin PTFE.

 

Q: Do slide plates require ongoing maintenance or lubrication? 

A: No. One of the greatest operational benefits of utilizing Teflon® slide plates is that they are naturally self-lubricating. This eliminates the need for manual greasing or ongoing maintenance, even in harsh or inaccessible environmental conditions.

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Inspection and Upgrading of High Energy Piping Systems
June 26, 2025

This technical paper, presented at the 1987 Joint Power Generation Conference by engineers from Brown & Root U.S.A., Inc., addresses the critical need for systematic inspection and upgrading of high energy piping systems (HEPS) in power plants. Despite often being considered low-maintenance, these systems are prone to failures due to thermal fatigue, creep, vibration, and corrosion, particularly at welds, hanger points, and fittings.

The study identifies common failure locations, such as main steam lines, hot reheat lines, and boiler piping, and explains that older fossil fuel power plants are especially susceptible. Using historical data and case studies, the authors categorize failure types and associate them with specific plant components and operating conditions.

To mitigate these risks, the paper outlines methods to detect impending failures, including:

  • Stress analysis,
  • Visual and non-destructive inspection techniques (NDE),
  • Monitoring of pipe hangers and supports.

The authors emphasize the importance of systematic evaluation of symptoms (like pipe displacement or equipment overload), root cause diagnosis, and the application of targeted corrective actions, such as support replacement or system modification.

Overall, the paper provides a practical framework for maintaining the reliability and safety of HEPS, advocating for proactive maintenance strategies and the integration of modern diagnostic tools to prevent costly and hazardous failures.

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Hydraulic Snubbers Built for Real-World Events
June 23, 2025

Hydraulic Snubbers Designed for a Geothermal Facility

Designed to Control Movement During Impulse and Prevent Sudden Displacement 

When thermal movement, seismic activity, or pressure surges strike, unrestrained piping systems can suffer catastrophic failures. For project managers and engineers tasked with safeguarding critical infrastructure in unpredictable environments, hydraulic snubbers provide a tested and proven line of defense.

Without them, it could lead to breaks in the piping system, cause misalignment issues, and/or anchor bolt failure. With tight project schedules and in high-risk applications, that’s a scenario no one can afford.

How Hydraulic Snubbers Work

Hydraulic snubbers allow free thermal movement during normal operating conditions. But when a sudden shock load occurs, such as a water hammer, blast, or seismic event, the hydraulic snubber reacts instantly to restrict movement.

By automatically locking up during sudden displacement and staying passive during slow, normal motion, they effectively protect the piping system without interfering with normal operation. This dual-mode performance makes them ideal for high-performance applications requiring both flexibility and protection.

Case in Point: Custom Manufactured Hydraulic Snubbers for a California Geothermal Plant

For a geothermal facility in California, Fronek Anchor/Darling, a division of Piping Technology & Products (PT&P), designed and fabricated high-load hydraulic snubbers tailored for seismic resilience. In this application, our engineers designed two unique snubbers and a three-bolt pipe clamp:

  • Hydraulic snubbers designed for a 50,000 lb. max load, 5” cylinder, 6” stroke, measuring 34 ¾” to 37 ⅝” piston-to-piston.
  • Hydraulic snubbers designed for a 20,000 lb. max load, 2 ½” cylinder, and 6” stroke, measuring 56 15/16” to 59 5/16” piston-to-piston. 
  • Custom three-bolt carbon steel pipe clamps designed to fit the snubbers and accommodate the high loads.

Before shipment, our quality and production teams performed cycle testing on each hydraulic snubber unit, extending it from zero to its full range. 

The result: the geothermal facility received vibration protection that met strict seismic standards, safeguarding its piping system from high-intensity earthquakes without interfering with thermal movement or risking damage.

Where Hydraulic Snubbers Work Best

Because of the ability to restrict and control sudden movements, snubbers are ideal for specific needs, such as:

  • Geothermal plants, where the buildup of steam could cause steam hammers in the pipeline.
  • Petrochemical plants, where sudden forces like pressure surges, thermal expansion, or seismic activity could impact system stability and safety
  • Power plants, where dynamic loads such as seismic events, steam hammers, or turbine trips could cause sudden pipe movements.
  • Nuclear plants, where seismic activity and system fluctuations can affect the movement of critical liquids and gases. 
  • High-vibration environments that aren’t always predictable
  • Seismically active zones that require restraint under load but flexibility at rest.

At the geothermal facility in California, our snubbers were necessary in ensuring the heat of the pipes didn’t cause misalignment of their route. Because of our hydraulic snubbers, these pipes can transport energy safely and without interruption to thousands of homes. 

Key Benefits of a Hydraulic Snubber

The benefits are visible the moment they are needed. Because of its design, a hydraulic snubber:

  • Transfers shock and vibration from the piping equipment to the building structure during dynamic events, absorbing the impact instantly.
  • Allows free movement under normal thermal expansion
  • Minimizes damage risk from water hammer or seismic activity
  • Has a fully customizable stroke and can be supplied with pipe clamps for specific load applications.
  • Can be easily and efficiently cycle tested for durability and code compliance

Engineer’s Take: Why Choose Our Hydraulic Snubbers 

Engineers and project managers trust hydraulic snubbers from Fronek/Anchor Darling and PT&P because they:

  • Meet ASME and seismic restraint codes.
  • Are manufactured to specific specs based on an engineer’s and project manager’s application needs.
  • Can be manufactured and delivered at a faster rate than many other manufacturing firms.
  • Are designed and tested for long-term performance.
  • Offer replacement parts and repair services on existing snubbers in your facility

Products Often Paired with Hydraulic Snubbers

Get the Specs, Validate the Fit and Envelope

Talk to an engineer today to get stroke, clamp, and load options tailored to your job, or Request a Quote to start planning with accurate lead time and technical documentation.

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Custom Pipe Clamps for 256-Mile Natural Gas Pipeline Across Ohio
June 16, 2025

110 Custom Designed Pipe Clamps for a Construction Company in Ohio

Project-Driven Pipe Clamp Fabrication Delivered in 8 Weeks

A construction firm set out to build a 256-mile natural gas pipeline across Ohio to meet the growing energy needs of the Midwest. A few challenges: ensuring that support components for the 42-inch diameter line could meet technical requirements and scheduling demands with no room for error.

To ensure the safe and long-term operation of its piping systems, the project team turned to Piping Technology & Products (PT&P) to design and deliver more than 100 custom-fabricated pipe clamps

Project Requirements and Pipe Clamp Design Specifications

The project managers could not afford delays, rework, or compliance issues from unsuitable pipe clamps that did not adhere to engineered specifications.
What the project demanded:

  • Custom-manufactured clamps for 42-inch OD pipe
  • Hot-dip galvanized for outdoor exposure, which would minimize future maintenance needs

PT&P engineered and manufactured 110 heavy-duty pipe clamps tailored to this job’s exact needs from our Houston facility.

Technical Highlights: How the Pipe Clamps were Built

  • Pipe Diameter: 42 inches
  • Clamp Width: 12 inches
  • Material: A36 carbon steel body with bonded vibration control materials (Other options: Neoprene, PTFE, isolation pads, Fabreeka®, and more)
  • Fabrication: In-house manufacturing
  • Quality Control: Visual examination and fit-up verification for pipe OD were conducted before shipment to meet industry-standard inspections
  • Delivery: 8 weeks, end-to-end

Engineer’s Take: Structurally Sound and Specification-Driven

Engineers on this project required proof that their supports would withstand the field conditions. Our clamp design included bonded wear pads to protect the pipe from damage and corrosion. All materials were verified to meet MSS SP-58 guidelines, ensuring long-term performance with no compromise on safety.

Project Manager’s Take: Zero Rework, On-Time Delivery

Avoiding schedule slippage was critical. By validating technical requirements at each stage, we avoided rework, reduced delays, and delivered with confidence. Our 8-week turnaround and proactive communication, which included scope reviews, design approvals, milestone check-ins, and regular updates, eliminated guesswork. Every clamp arrived jobsite-ready, clearly labeled, spec-compliant, and fit to install with no field adjustments.

Why Project Managers Choose PT&P Pipe Clamps

  • Short Lead Times: Most of our products have an 8-week turnaround time, even on complex builds
  • Built to Spec: Made to your specs, no compromise on fit or load (standard products are also available)
  • Made in the USA: Full fabrication and QC from our Houston facility
  • Production Scalability: Capable of supporting both small-volume and high-volume orders

Clamp Configurations We Offer 

We manufacture a wide range of pipe clamps, including:

  • Standard pipe clamps
  • Adjustable clamps
  • Riser clamps
  • U-bolts
  • Fully custom configurations and options on materials and coatings

Most complex builds are fabricated to order at our Houston facility to meet exact project needs, whether that’s load rating, environmental resistance, or non-standard diameters.

By delivering precisely engineered, high-quality clamps, PT&P supported the safe and efficient development of this state-wide pipeline project. We are proud to support cleaner energy transitions by enabling fuel switching from coal to gas and allowing access to lower-cost shale gas reserves. 

Most large-scale projects require tailored designs like this one. That is why, with recent investments in our manufacturing operations, we are uniquely positioned as the only manufacturer to provide high-quality, custom-made solutions for your piping systems to our clients faster and on a larger scale than ever.

Need Project-Specific Pipe Clamps?

Our ability to design and manufacture sets us apart, providing confidence and assurance to our clients and their customers that we will strictly adhere to their specifications and job site requirements.

We’re one of the few U.S. manufacturers with in-house engineering, custom fabrication, and full quality control (QC) capabilities for high-specification pipe clamps.

Talk to an Engineer about your next project or Request a Quote today.

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Hold-Down Pipe Clamps with PTFE Slide Plates Offer Secure, Low-Friction Thermal Movement
June 9, 2025

HD-2 and HD-3 Hold-down Pipe Clamps

Allow Axial Movement While Maintaining Vertical Restraint

Pipe hold-down clamps secure the pipe in place while allowing it to expand, contract, and shift naturally without stress concentration or misalignment.

Thermal expansion can disrupt alignment, overstress anchors, and damage coatings, particularly on large-diameter pipes measuring 20 inches or more in diameter. Without proper restraint, pipe systems can buckle supports or shift pipe saddles, triggering high-cost field repairs.

In compressor stations, wastewater treatment facilities, pipeline terminals, petrochemical plants, and LNG terminals, slight misalignment can threaten structural integrity. Long lead times on specialized supports only aggravate the situation.

That’s why engineers choose pipe hold down clamps that install cleanly, eliminate the effects of stress, and account for thermal expansion.

HD-2 and HD-3 Pipe Hold Down Clamps with PTFE Slide Plates Manufactured by Piping Technology

Our HD-2 and HD-3 pipe hold-down clamps are designed to provide secure vertical restraint and controlled axial movement of the pipe.

These hold-down clamps are designed for pipes with diameters of 20 to 30 inches and are manufactured from carbon steel. The clamp saddle and base are lined with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and 25% glass fiber-filled slide plates, creating a durable, low-friction sliding surface.

The result: restrained vertical load with smooth axial movement, while restraining vertical and lateral movement in the piping system.

How it works:

  • PTFE-lined (or graphite) surface allows low-resistance axial pipe movement without binding or buckling
  • Glass fiber fill reinforces the sliding surface under load
  • Carbon steel body ensures long-term structural stability
  • Typically installs using a bolt-down configuration, minimizing the need for field welding

Case Study: Rush Delivery to South Dakota Natural Gas Pump Station

A natural gas pump station in South Dakota required large-diameter hold-down clamps that could withstand thermal cycling, vibration, and harsh outdoor exposure.

Project Specs:

  • Pipe Diameter: 20″ to 30″
  • Quantity: 22 custom-fabricated pipe hold down clamps
  • Material: Carbon steel with 25% glass-filled PTFE liners
  • Application Environment: Outdoor station, high-vibration compressor skid
  • Turnaround: One-week rush fabrication, shipped on time, zero field modifications

The hold-down clamps arrived installation-ready with clear labeling and documentation: no grinding, no guesswork, no schedule slip.

We pride ourselves on being the manufacturing leader for large-scale projects, providing rapid delivery to meet construction milestones. We offer a 24-hour emergency support hotline for critical situations:

Where Pipe Hold Down Clamps Work Best

  • Natural gas compressor and pump stations
  • Petrochemical and chemical processing plants
  • LNG terminals and cryogenic transfer lines
  • Structural steel pipe racks and skids for space aviation, semiconductor, and battery plants
  • Long-run pipe systems requiring expansion, travel control 

Field Benefits of Pipe Hold Down Clamps

  • Controls axial, vertical, and lateral movement, where uncontrolled movement can damage expensive equipment or cause safety hazards. 
  • Reduces clamp friction and wear with PTFE-lined saddle 
  • Minimizes rework and installation risk with a bolt-in design
  • Installs fast, no welding or fit delays
  • Engineered for vibration control to dampen and restrict pipe vibration, preventing fatigue or failure.
  • Built to spec for 20- to 30-inch diameter pipe
  • Shipped labeled and documented to streamline the installation

Engineer’s Take: Designed for Restraint

These hold clamps meet ASME and ASTM material and performance specifications, and every hold-down clamp undergoes rigorous internal quality checks and inspections. The PTFE slide plates enable axial movement of pipes without binding in piping systems and protect coatings. Engineers use them to control the piping system and meet ASME code requirements on critical long-run systems. For a pipe stress engineer, the use of hold-downs with PTFE can be a valuable tool in directing and managing the thermal expansion of the piping system.

Project Manager’s Take: Built to Install Without Surprises

When project timelines are tight, you don’t have room for guesswork. These pipe hold down clamps ship fast, even in a rush, and arrive ready to bolt in place. No RFI triggers, no field-fit delays. Just labeled, documented, fabrication-verified components that hold up during commissioning and beyond. Less risk, fewer delays, and lower total install cost.

Commonly Paired Products

Talk to an Engineer

Piping Technology has one of the largest engineering departments in the piping support manufacturing industry. If you think pipe hold-down clamps would be a good solution for your next project, but would like to discuss it with our technical engineers, then contact us today!

If you are ready to move forward with a quote for your next project, then send us an RFQ for pipe hold down clamps.
Contact Us

If you are ready to move forward with a quote for your next project, then send us an RFQ for pipe hold down clamps.
Request a Quote

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Custom Pig Launchers Built for High-Pressure Pipeline Performance
May 29, 2025
24" x 30" diameter, 740 PSIG Pig Launchers and Receivers
24″ x 30″ diameter, 740 PSIG Pig Launchers and Receivers

Maintain Flow, Prevent Downtime, and Protect Pipeline Integrity

As debris builds up inside long pipelines, it becomes increasingly difficult for the media to flow. If left unchecked, this buildup can compromise safety and trigger costly maintenance shutdowns.

Pig launchers provide a proven and reliable inline solution. Allowing for the insertion of pipeline inspection gauges, custom pig launchers & receivers are engineered for cleaning, separation, and inspection. In some cases, our custom pig launcher systems let you maintain pipeline performance without depressurization, keeping operations online and flow rates steady.

How a Pig Launcher Works

A pig launcher is a pressure-rated chamber that safely introduces a pipeline inspection gauge, commonly referred to as a “pig,” into a piping system. Once loaded, sealed, and pressurized, the pig is pushed through the line by the flow of media or compressed gas. The pig removes debris, separates media, and/or inspects for defects along the way.

Each pig launcher & receiver unit includes:

  • Major barrel for pig loading and collection
  • Minor barrel that is inline with the main pipeline
  • Quick-opening closure for safe, quick, and reliable access to the pig when it’s in the launching and receiving process
  • Valves and flanges designed to maintain flow through the bypass line with pressure gauges, vents, drains, pig indicators, and more; all designed to ensure project-specific specs are maintained

When paired with a receiver, it forms a complete pigging system, ideal for routine maintenance, pipeline integrity checks, or product batching without interruption to operations.

Case Study Example: High-Pressure Pigging System Built to Spec

A petrochemical plant needed a pig launcher and receiver package for two separate high-pressure lines. The design required tight alignment with operating conditions and quick field readiness.

Specs Delivered:

  • System pressure: 740 PSIG
  • Operating temperature: 170°F
  • Barrel sizes:
    • Set 1: 24″ minor × 30″ major × 138″ long
    • Set 2: 10″ minor × 14″ major × 132″ long
  • Material: API 5L X52 carbon steel
  • Application: High-pressure process lines requiring regular pigging
  • Design Code: ASME Section VIII, Div. 1

Each pig launcher unit was hydrotested by our in-house quality team, sandblasted, and externally coated for corrosion resistance. Units were fabricated to match line specs, fully documented, and shipped ready for installation.

Application Uses for Pig Launchers in the Field

Our pig launchers are routinely used in:

  • Crude oil pipelines
  • Natural gas transmission lines
  • Petrochemical and chemical process systems
  • Refined product transportation LNG terminals and compressor stations

Where flow assurance and cleanliness matter, pigging systems are standard practice.

Key Benefits of Pigging Systems for Your Project

  • Inline maintenance keeps the product moving without system shutdowns
  • Custom-built to match pipe diameter, pig dimensions, and service pressure
  • ASME U-stamped with complete test documentation and hydrotesting
  • Quick-opening closures reduce labor time and improve safety
  • Corrosion-resistant finishes extend product life in demanding environments
  • Full traceability and QA/QC documentation delivered with each order
  • Short lead times and responsive project coordination

Engineer’s Take: Designed for Field Integrity

Engineers specify our pig launchers because they’re engineered for real-world performance:

  • Sized for your pig and pressure class
  • Built from API-grade steel for mechanical strength
  • Precise CAD modeling is available for integration and layout planning
  • Instrumentation ports available for pressure monitoring or automation
  • Documentation packages include MTRs, weld maps, and hydrotest records

    • No guesswork. Every unit arrives with data that validates the design.

Project Manager’s View: Predictable, Field-Ready, and On Schedule

From planning through installation, our systems help you keep projects on track:

  • Pre-engineered fit means fewer RFIs and no retrofit risk
  • Responsive engineering support keeps timelines moving
  • Safe closures and access simplify routine maintenance
  • On-time delivery prevents scheduling bottlenecks
  • Clear documentation reduces approval cycles and install confusion

    • You’re not just buying a launcher—you’re gaining a partner who understands the cost of delay.

Related Products to Support Your Pigging System

Pair these components with a pig launcher and receiver to stabilize and protect your pipeline:

Let’s Build Your Pig Launcher to Spec

Need a pig launcher that meets your pressure class, fits your system, and delivers on schedule? We’re ready.

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Adjustable Pipe Saddles for Stabilizing Heavy Horizontal Piping Under Dynamic Loads
May 23, 2025

30" Dia. Adjustable Pipe Saddle Supports Designed for an Oil Refinery

When engineering piping systems, achieving precise elevation and alignment is critical. An adjustable pipe support provides the flexibility needed to accommodate field variations during installation, unlike standard non-adjustable pipe supports, which require exact prefabrication.

By using an adjustable pipe support stand, engineers can easily modify the support height on-site to ensure perfect alignment. These assemblies often feature robust pipe saddles designed to cradle the pipe securely without causing stress concentrations.

For systems requiring thermal protection, specialized pipe insulation saddles are integrated to prevent the heavy pipe from crushing its own thermal barrier. Whether mounted directly to structural steel or elevated on a dedicated pipe support stanchion, these adjustable systems ensure optimal load distribution and long-term stability for your piping network.

Designed to prevent deformation and reduce stress at key support points, adjustable pipe saddles deliver fixed, stable support where movement is not an option.

Chosen When Precision Elevation and Structural Rigidity Are Non-Negotiable

Heavy piping systems under load can shift, sag, or deform, especially when unsupported over distance or exposed to vibration, thermal change, or movement, putting your process-critical fixed equipment at risk . Adjustable pipe saddles are engineered to eliminate those risks. 

By locking the pipe into a fixed elevation and anchoring directly into structural steel or concrete, these supports maintain piping system alignment reduce localized stress prevent any long-term deformation in critical systems.

Why Engineers Choose Adjustable Pipe Saddles Over Adjustable Pipe Stands

Engineers will usually specify adjustable pipe saddles when systems require exact pipe elevation, concentrated load handling, and rigid structural anchoring that won’t shift under pressure. For projects where pipe supports must prevent movement entirely, rather than allow for it, saddles are the reliable, constructability built solution.

 

Adjustable Pipe Saddles vs. Fixed Pipe Saddles: What’s the Difference?

Adjustable Pipe Saddles

Adjustable pipe saddles feature a fixed-height saddle (the curved cradle that supports the pipe), but are mounted on adjustable vertical supports or stanchions. This allows the elevation to be fine-tuned during installation to match field conditions, which is ideal when construction tolerances, structural discrepancies, or elevation mismatches are likely.

How It Works:

  • A seamless center pipe section can be rotated to raise or lower the saddle height.
  • Pre-drilled base plates make anchor bolt installation fast and consistent.

Carbon steel construction with red oxide primer or hot dipped galvanized coating ensures corrosion resistance in harsh environments.

Fixed Pipe Saddles

Fixed pipe saddles are completely static supports. Both the saddle and its structural stanchion are built to a specified height, with no option field adjustability. They’re designed when exact elevations are known in the piping system, to achieve maximum stability and zero movement under load.

Case Study: Adjustable Pipe Saddles for an  Oil Refinery Retrofit in Michigan

When an EPC firm was retrofitting sections of a Midwestern oil refinery,  they needed the infrastructure  to support large process lines with varying elevations across aging foundations. We were able to design and manufacture  custom adjustable pipe saddles for 24″ and 30″ diameter piping, fabricated from carbon steel and coated with red oxide to withstand Michigan’s seasonal shifts.

Adjustable Pipe Saddle Product Specs:

  • Pipe Sizes: 24″ and 30″ OD
  • Support Height: Adjustable from 40″ to 42″
  • Material: Carbon steel, red oxide finish
  • Adjustment Mechanism: Rotatable center pipe
  • Delivery: Shipped within two weeks

The EPC team completed the install without site rework, saving time and ensuring alignment across uneven foundation grades.

Ideal Applications for Adjustable Pipe Saddles

Adjustable saddle supports are frequently used in:

  • Oil and gas refineries
  • LNG terminals and gas processing plants
  • Petrochemical and chemical plants
  • Power generation and utility facilities
  • Pipe rack and sleeper systems in retrofit projects

Any application requiring elevation flexibility or working around existing steel is a strong fit.

Why Engineers Choose Adjustable Pipe Saddles

  • Height adjustability eliminates field rework
  • Faster installation that requires no welding or on-site modifications
  • Pre-drilled base plates ensure bolt-down accuracy.
  • Code compliant that meets ASME B31.3 and MSS-SP (Manufacturers Standardization Society Standard Practices) standards.
  • Corrosion-resistant with protective coatings
  • Available fast and quick turnaround to meet schedule demands

Why Engineers Choose Piping Technology & Products

Engineers trust us to supply them with adjustable pipe saddle  that are:

  • Load-tested and fabricated to custom project specs
  • Adjustable within tight tolerances
  • Available with full CAD support, drawings, and stamped calculations
  • Built to meet ASME, ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), and NACE (National Association of Corrosion Engineers) standards.

The rotatable center section allows for precise elevation control, enabling engineers to dial in exact support heights without adding field modifications or compromising load-bearing integrity.

Why Project Manager’s Choose Piping Technology & Products

Project Manager’s value adjustable pipe saddles because they:

  • Avoid schedule slip from misaligned piping or uneven foundations
  • Reduce field RFIs and last-minute design changes
  • Minimize costly rework and field welding. 
  • Fit into value-engineered packages that reduce labor and install time.

Adjustable pipe saddles make a project manager’s job easier, are built for changing field conditions, and are backed by a team that picks up the phone when it counts, 24/7. Our responsive engineering and quick-ship capabilities support fast-paced schedules, and our ability to align with field constructability needs—including work package-based production for module or scope schedules—helps keep projects on track from procurement to commissioning.

Adjustable Pipe Saddles are Usually Paired With:

  • Pipe Shoes: for insulation or wear protection
  • Variable Spring Hangers: for dynamic load balancing
  • Anchor Clamps: for fixed points and thrust loads
  • Embed Plates: for secure base installation in concrete

We are the only manufacturing company that engineers, fabricates, and ships all your pipe support needs from our manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas.

Talk to an Engineer

Are adjustable pipe saddles right for your next project? Talk with our engineering team about sizing, specs, and turnaround times.

Request a Quote
PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03102013

 

FAQs

Q: What is the primary advantage of adjustable pipe support stands compared to rigid alternatives?

 A: The main benefit is the ability to fine-tune the elevation during and after installation. This flexibility makes an adjustable pipe support stand far superior to non-adjustable pipe supports when engineers must account for uneven surfaces, structural settling, or unexpected field conditions.

 

Q: Why are pipe insulation saddles necessary for thermal piping? 

A: Standard supports can easily crush soft thermal barriers under heavy operational loads. pipe insulation saddles are engineered to distribute the pipe’s weight evenly over a larger surface area, protecting the insulation and preventing costly thermal bridging or energy loss.

 

Q: What is the main structural function of pipe saddles in a support assembly? 

A: Pipe saddles cradle the bottom contour of the pipe, securely holding it in place while spreading the compressive load across the steel to prevent localized stress, metal fatigue, or damage to the pipe wall.

 

Q: How does a pipe support stanchion integrate with an adjustable pipe support? 

A: A pipe support stanchion acts as the vertical anchoring column that safely transfers the immense weight and load from the adjustable pipe support down to the facility’s structural foundation, providing a highly stable base for the entire assembly.

 

Q: Where can engineers find the exact load ratings and pipe saddle support detail for these units? 

A: Every custom and standard support unit should be reviewed against its specific pipe saddle support detail, an engineering drawing that outlines the exact dimensions, material grades, and maximum load capacities to ensure safe and compliant integration into your system. It’s best to consult with our engineering and design team on your plant environment and support needs.

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The Piping Pressure Boundary and ASME B31.3
May 19, 2025

Introduction: Why this simple concept is a career game-changer

All industries combined spend literally billions of dollars per year in engineering and construction with one focus, the protection of the public through pipeline pressure boundary integrity assurance. Key to this goal is ASME B31.3. However, ASME B31.3 can be complex and ever-changing. Further, this piping code often references other complex ASME codes for further information and technical guidance.

If you’re looking to take your career to the next level, our ASME B31.3 Emerging Subject Matter Expert online course offers a deep dive into the practical and theoretical knowledge you need. With more than 10 hours of ASME-accredited content, it’s designed for our future ASME Subject Matter Expert engineers like you — ready to specialize, prepared to lead. Once you pass the final exam at the end of the full course, you will receive an ASME certificate of completion with 15-PE/PDH credits.

Demystifying Perceived Conflicts and Omissions in ASME B31.3

Industries go to great lengths in engineering analyses, construction/welding procedures and commissioning to assure public safety with high integrity final pressure boundary assurance of piping while paying only cursory attention in the codes to flange design and deployment. Flanges are a break in the pressure boundary and thus, should receive constant focus in the codes. Today’s high temperature flanges are virtually free of focus and remain a constant cause of process fires and hazardous leakage.

 

Additionally, constant threats to today’s elevated temperature ASME B31.3 piping pressure boundary integrity are

  1. Design pressure and temperature definition
  2. Advanced pipe wall thickness calculations for high temperature, cyclic service
  3. Vibration
  4. Expansion joint design and troubleshooting
  5. Mitered bend design
  6. Branch area replacement
  7. Hydrogen service
  8. Low-temperature brittle fracture

Industries that rely on ASME B31.3

ASME B31.3 applies to a range of sectors where process piping plays a central role. Here are a few:

  • Oil and gas
  • Chemical and petrochemical plants
  • Pharmaceutical manufacturing
  • Food and beverage processing
  • Power generation
  • Semiconductor fabrication

In these fields, learning ASME B31.3 online gives engineers the flexibility to study while working, helping them stay competitive and meet ever-evolving regulatory demands.

Why compliance with ASME B31.3 matters

Noncompliance isn’t just a paperwork issue — it’s a risk factor. Following process piping standards reduces the likelihood of leaks, failures, explosions, or costly shutdowns. It is required by liability insurance. It also ensures:

  • Worker safety: Preventing injuries and fatalities.
  • System reliability: Minimizing repairs and unexpected downtime.
  • Regulatory approval: Meeting local and international codes for construction and operation.

Compliance signals competence. For engineers, it can mean the difference between stagnation and upward mobility.

Who should learn Seek an ASME B31.3 Subject Matter Expert Level?

While plant managers, quality assurance personnel, and project engineers all benefit from knowledge of B31.3, this course is especially critical for:

  • Mechanical engineers moving into responsible piping engineering positions or construction roles.
  • Project engineers supporting complex and critical piping design and construction projects.
  • Inspectors and QA/QC specialists seeking to qualify for ASME B31.3 projects.
  • Emerging engineers on the path to becoming SMEs looking for promotions or leadership designations.

Investing in an accredited online ASME piping course shows initiative and positions you as a valuable team member ready to take on more responsibility.

Learn from the best: Enroll in our Future Subject Matter Expert ASME B31.3 online certification course

At Piping Technology & Products, we’ve partnered with Michael Shelton, a subject matter expert, for over fifty (50) years of hands-on ASME Piping and Pressure Vessel codes in numerous fields. Michael has been a university adjunct graduate professor and taught industrial ASME courses for over twenty (20) years and is one of only three ASME B31.3-certified teachers.

Together, we have developed a high-impact ASME B31.3 Future Subject Matter Expert online program tailored to real-world applications. This piping design course for mechanical engineers offers:

  • More than 10 hours of comprehensive video lessons
  • Self-paced learning for working professionals
  • In-depth coverage of real-world applicable case studies of the ASME B31.3 code
  • 15 PE/PDH credits upon completion, with an ASME-certified certificate
  • Immediate access to start learning right away

Whether diving into complex calculations or wanting to gain essential expertise in hydrogen piping design, this course equips you with the tools to master the code and stand out among your peers.

Click here to enroll now

Or learn more on our online courses hub.

Final thoughts: Become the go-to expert in your company

ASME B31.3 isn’t just another code — it’s a blueprint for career advancement. As companies prioritize code compliance, risk mitigation, and technical expertise, engineers who’ve taken the initiative to get certified become indispensable. This isn’t just about knowledge; it’s about leadership.

Whether you want to enhance your credibility, lead projects, or prepare for promotion, the path starts with the right education. Continue on to your next title of Subject matter expert.

Start today — earn your credentials and elevate your career.

 

FAQs

Q: What is the primary focus of the ASME Process Piping Code B 31.3? 

A: The ASME Process Piping Code B 31.3 establishes comprehensive engineering requirements for the design, materials, fabrication, testing, and inspection of process piping systems. Its primary focus is to ensure the integrity and reliability of the pressure boundary under all operating conditions.

 

Q: How does a fabrication facility achieve ASME B 31.3 certification? 

A: While there isn’t a direct ASME B 31.3 certification for individual engineers, fabrication facilities must demonstrate strict compliance with the code’s requirements for quality control, welding procedures, inspection, and testing. This is typically achieved through adherence to recognized quality programs and, when applicable, certifications such as ASME Section IX for welding, ensuring the facility is qualified to manufacture process piping systems in accordance with B31.3 standards.

 

Q: Where can engineers find the most recent ASME B 31.3 news and standard updates? 

A: Engineers and industry professionals should regularly consult official ASME publications and resources for the latest ASME B 31.3 news. Additionally, technical resource centers—such as PT&P’s—can provide helpful insights and summaries of key revisions, as ASME periodically releases updates and addenda to enhance safety, materials, and design standards.

 

Q: Does every pipe support attachment have to meet strict b 31.3 requirements?

A: ASME B31.3 requires that pipe supports and welded attachments be designed and installed in a way that does not introduce excessive local stresses into the pipe wall. Proper support design ensures that the pressure boundary remains intact while accommodating loads such as thermal expansion, weight, and vibration.

 

Q: What role do inspections and testing play in ASME B31.3 compliance?

A: Inspections and testing are critical components of ASME B31.3 compliance. The code specifies requirements for nondestructive examination (NDE), pressure testing, and quality verification to ensure that fabricated piping systems meet the required safety and performance standards.

 

Q: What industries commonly follow the ASME Process Piping Code B31.3?

A: The ASME Process Piping Code B31.3 is widely used in industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical processing, chemical plants, refineries, and LNG facilities. These industries rely on the code to ensure the safe and reliable design and operation of piping systems.

 

Q: What is considered the pressure boundary in ASME B31.3 process piping systems?

A: In ASME B31.3 process piping systems, the pressure boundary refers to all components that contain process pressure, including pipes, fittings, flanges, valves, gaskets, and welded joints. These components must meet strict design, material, fabrication, and inspection requirements to maintain system integrity and prevent leaks or failures.

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Galvanized Knee Braces
May 19, 2025
Knee braces 5 25
Galvanized Knee Braces

Keeping Pipe Support Systems Stable, Even Under Lateral Load and Wind Stress

Unanticipated lateral loads from wind gusts to seismic tremors can quickly compromise pipe support systems in any projects. Structural instability around critical piping runs is a project risk that no project manager wants to explain. That’s where galvanized knee braces step in. These structural supports reinforce vertical pipe stands and structural steel, preventing sway, racking, or collapse during field events ranging from vibration control to water hammers.

How They Work: Braced to Resist and Built to Last

Galvanized knee braces function as diagonal steel members welded or bolted between vertical and horizontal components, forming rigid triangles that distribute and counteract horizontal forces. At Piping Technology & Products, we custom-fabricate galvanized knee braces from carbon steel and then “hot-dip galvanize” the entire unit for corrosion protection. This protects the knee braces from extreme weather conditions and exposure to saltwater and rain, which are often conditions seen at operating facilities.

The braces are prefabricated for standard layouts or designed custom to accommodate irregular geometries, offset loads, or tight envelope requirements. Once installed, they create a stable moment-resisting frame that ensures structural integrity for lateral loading.

Where They’re Used: Cross-Industry Structural Reinforcement

Galvanized knee braces are commonly deployed in:

  • Petrochemical plants: Pipe racks, platforms, and vertical supports

  • Power generation facilities: Turbine and cooling system infrastructure

  • Midstream terminals: Metering skids and loading platforms

  • Water treatment facilities: Pipe galleries and elevated walkways

  • Pulp & paper mills: Vertical piping columns under dynamic loads

Benefits at a Glance: Engineered Strength and Field-Ready Durability

  • Reinforces structures against wind, vibration, and lateral movement

  • Hot-dip galvanized for maximum corrosion resistance

  • Compatible with new construction and retrofits

  • Custom-fit to jobsite dimensions for fast install

  • Cuts down the risk of structural failure or pipe movement

  • Reduces field rework from instability or misalignment

From the Engineer’s Desk: Why Structural Teams Trust Them

Engineers specify PT&P knee braces for their:

  • Load-tested performance: Designed per AISC and ASCE standards

  • Precision fit-up: 3D CAD modeling and detailed drawings ensure integration with structural and piping systems

  • Corrosion protection: Zinc-coating meets ASTM A123 for extended outdoor service

  • Structural compliance: Meets seismic bracing requirements in applicable zones

From the Project Manager’s Chair: Why Project Managers Prefer Us

  • Reduce change orders and field delays tied to lateral support issues

  • Arrive at the site ready to install; no onsite fabrication is required.

  • Help pass inspections by mitigating the risk of sway or movement.

  • Keep installation timelines and labor hours on track.

  • Fit smoothly into fast-moving construction phases with zero surprises.

Pair With These Products

Galvanized knee braces are often specified alongside:

  • Pipe Shoes with Base Support

  • Structural Pipe Clamps

  • Anchor Bolts and Embed Plates

  • Seismic Restraint Systems

  • Custom Pipe Racks and Frames

These systems work in tandem to deliver structural stability across your piping support infrastructure.

Get Ahead of Lateral Load Issues

Talk to an engineer today or Request a Quote
PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07052000

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