Horizontal Upthrust Constants for a Power PlantMultiple Constants During Inspection
The horizontal upthrust constants (Fig. PTP200-U) were fabricated from carbon steel and chrome-moly for a Heat Recovery Steam Generator. The constants range in sizes PTP-200 size 3 to 65 and weigh from 24 lbs to 1,300 lbs. They support loads of 100 lbs to 8,100 lbs. The constants support pipes and equipment subjected to vertical movement due to thermal expansion at locations where transfer of stress to other supports or equipment can be critical. Horizontal upthrust constants are utilized in areas where horizontal travel is unacceptable. Standard testing was completed for performance and quality assurance.
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Piping Technology & Products, Inc. Performed Field Services for a Power Generating Plant in Texas
PT&P was contracted to assist in the determination of pipe support maintenance at a power plant in Texas. The constant effort support springs with loads of excess of 9,500 lbs and the variable spring supports with loads of 450 lbs were marked for needing attention.
Cleaning Variable Spring UnitInspecting Variable Springs for Performance
PT&P’s objectives were to:
* Evaluate the pipe supports
* Determine state of performance
* Provide a plan of action
* Train personnel on-site to perform adjustments and replacement of supports or support components
* Provide final inspection of modified supports
After Cleaning & Preparation of the ConstantFinal Assembly with Added Slide Plates
The pipe supports needing attention could not be set to the required installation position. A plan was initiated to recondition some of the support components such as turnbuckles and rods. This would allow a greater range of field adjustment to the pipe supports. During a planned shut-down, PT&P Field Service Units returned to the site to modify the existing supports. The initial phase of the modifications included bracing the piping in order to isolate and lock the supports in position. Then, they were disconnected from the system and modifications to the assemblies were completed. Afterwards, the supports were reinstalled and any necessary adjustments were completed. A total of eight pipe supports were modified or adjusted.
