Blog Category: ENGINEERED SPRING SUPPORTS | Piping Technology & Products, Inc.

Constant Spring Supports Custom-Designed for a Large Crude Oil Processing Facility

November 28, 2023

Piping Technology & Products custom-designed constant spring supports for crude oil processing at one of the largest refineries in the world. Petroleum refineries change crude oil into products such as jet fuel, gasoline, polypropylene, polyethylene, propane, sulfur, carbon black feed, and diesel that can be used for transportation, heating, feedstocks for making other chemicals, generating electricity, renewable energy, and paving roads. Piping Technology and Products was awarded this project because we were the only engineering manufacturing firm vendor of constant spring manufacturers in the world that could both design, manufacture, and test these units for the unique design conditions. These constant springs will support loads ranging from 88,185 lb. to 143,300 lb. They are designed for temperatures up to 650°F, and movements of 0.39" up, 4.72" down, -2.36" up, and 0.39" down. The Type-C constants are 67" H x 21" W x 88.25" L and the Type-F constants are 85" H X 39.75" W x 86.56" L.

The F-Type springs will include graphite slide plates and are designed to support the piping from below while allowing both lateral and axial movement. All constant assemblies underwent magnetic particle inspection of welds, travel, and compression tests. Additionally, a special “cramp test” was conducted on each spring coil. A "cramp test" is done by compressing the spring coil by a specified length for a specific period of time. This assures the spring’s functionally especially when a large "wire diameter" is used to manufacture the spring coil for these high loads. At Piping Technology and Products and our subsidiaries, we specialize in designing pipe supports, expansion joints, and insulated supports for unique applications involving products not readily available. Our products are used in the CDU (crude distillation units), hydrocracking units, RFCC (residual fluid catalytic cracking), naphtha hydrotreater, and hydrodesulfurization units (also known as alkylation unit), and sulphuric acid regeneration (SAR) units in refineries.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07272021

Saddle Support Spring Isolators for an Old Steam Chest Saddle

November 21, 2023

PT&P custom-designed and fabricated "saddle support spring isolators" to replace the previous springs originally designed in 1974 for supporting an old steam chest saddle at a chlor-alkali chemical plant. Chlor-alkali plants use salt and electricity to produce caustic soda and chlorine gas. Downstream, the chlorine gas – either wet or optionally dry – can be reacted in a chemical process to produce bleach, other chlorine derivatives, or chemical feed stocks finding its way into the production of glass, plastics, pulp, paper, textiles, vinyl, antiseptics, insecticides, and a water treatment agent and in some soaps and detergents. Rising demand for chlorine and caustic soda in various industries such as automotive, pharmaceuticals, paper, and chemicals are driving the chlor-alkali market. Due to improvements in the manufacture of spring coils, PT&P’s engineering team suggested improvements to the original design using a more well-suited design that exceeds the original design specifications. These saddle supports include PTFE, 25% glass-filled slide plates bonded to the top of the assembly. They are designed to support up to 32,000 lb. each with a 6,250 lb/in. spring rate. These springs do not have the traditional spring housing typically used to encase the spring coil, instead, they are fabricated utilizing carbon steel plates in conjunction with chains and internal components. See diagram below. Ptp spring isolators plain diagram 161917

The spring coils are alloy steel and were custom designed per this customer’s specified wire dia, active/total coils, and solid height. The spring supports were load tested and a quality control inspection was completed that included MAG Particle Inspection. PT&P can replace existing custom variable spring supports using the original design drawings from plants built more than 50 years ago. PT&P can also reverse engineer any spring hanger by taking detailed measurements of the support in the field and sending the information back to our shop for a quick lead time during a plant turnaround or shutdown. Many of the custom spring supports that PT&P has supplied to replace original equipment have been in service for more than 40 years.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 11022021

G-Type Variable Spring Assemblies Designed for an Oil & Gas Refinery in Texas

October 31, 2023

PT&P designed these G-Type variable spring support assemblies, along with a 24" diameter pipe shoe and hanger, for an oil and gas refinery in one of the largest refineries in Texas that was also the recipient of the American Fuel Manufacturers 2022 Innovation award. Our variables were for the refinery coker unit, which typically converts the residual oil from the vacuum distillation column into low molecular weight hydrocarbon gasses, naphtha, light and heavy gas oils, and petroleum coke.

Each variable spring support assembly was designed with a center-to-center of 36" and an elevation difference of up to 72". The spring supports consist of a G-type variable spring, all threaded rods, clevis, lifting lugs, welding lugs, and clevis pins. They are designed with an operating load range from 1,700 lb. to 10,500 lb. and a movement range of .02" to .19" up or down. Standard load and travel testing was completed before shipment.

The refinery was originally constructed in the 1930s. PT&P and our subsidiaries have deep experience with maintenance and replacement work at existing facilities to keep them running and producing for our clients. Our field service teams are available to do an audit, inspection, or replacements of variable spring cans based on your needs.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 08092016

Constant Spring Support Assemblies for an LNG Plant in Central Africa

September 26, 2023

Type:	Constant Spring Supports
Material:	A36 Carbon Steel w/ HDG Finish
Design:	1,790 lb. Load \| 8″ Vertical
Testing:	Load and Travel Tests

These constant spring supports were modified to increase their installed height. The constants range in size from 20.5″ in height 38.75″ in length, and 13″ in width. They’re designed for up to 1790 lb. load and a vertical movement range of 8″. All constants were fabricated from A-36 carbon steel and hot-dipped galvanized. Each assembly went through standard load and travel testing per MSS Standards. The constants were shipped within 6 to 8 weeks to a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in Africa.

LNG is natural gas cooled down until it reaches a liquid state. In its liquid state, natural gas is easier to transport by large ships when pipelines are not feasible. Over the years, we have supplied insulated and spring hanger supports to gasification and degasification plants. Our long history in the arena has helped us become the vendor of choice by offering the full scope of our services from testing, engineering & design, manufacturing, and field service.

For this application, our constants were designed and manufactured with carbon steel; however, depending on application requirements, such as a furnace, we can also provide constant spring supports utilizing stainless steel material, which accommodates high temperatures and corrosive environments. We created the world’s smallest constant spring support. Our nano constant is ideal for such applications:

The applications for constant spring supports range in industry verticals we have built and designed for. In addition to LNG clients, we have designed and built constants for refineries, geothermal plants, petrochemical plants, and renewable energy facilities. The use applications include coker replacement, debottlenecking of the furnace, installation of a new VDU (vacuum distillation unit) heater, tube and heater replacement, and flare gas recovery units. 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 06192018

A-Type Variable Spring Supports for a Process Power Plant in Oklahoma

August 29, 2023

Type:	Variable Spring Supports
Size:	Rod Diameter 2” / Casing 8′ long & 3 1/8” Diameter
Material:	Carbon Steel
Design:	Operating Load 31,563 lbs., Installed Load 29,000 lbs., 0.82″ Downward Movement
Testing:	Standard Load & Travel Tests

PT&P designed two standard PTP-4 size 210 A-type variable spring supports for a process power plant in Oklahoma. The springs are fabricated from A36 carbon steel with a hot-dipped galvanized finish. The springs are designed to accommodate a hydro test load of 34,000 lbs. with an operating load of 31,563 lbs. and an installed load of 29,000 lbs., with the movement of 0.82″ downward. Standard load and travel tests were conducted on the variables before shipment. The specially designed springs utilize a rod diameter of 2″ and the spring casing 8′ long and 3 1/8″ in diameter.

In addition to the products we offer, we also have an experienced field service team. Over 80% of the field service we do is for engineered supports, including constant and spring supports. Inspecting pipe supports in high-energy piping systems such as refineries, chemical plants, and power plants is critical for ensuring safety and reliability. Neglecting these inspections can lead to major consequences detailed below:

Structural Failures: Over time, pipe supports can weaken due to corrosion, vibration, or other factors. Without inspection, undetected defects can result in the failure of these supports, causing pipes to sag, bend, or even rupture. This can lead to catastrophic accidents and expensive repairs.
Leakage: When pipe supports degrade, they may cause pipes to shift or disconnect, leading to leaks at flange connections and other types of connections in high-pressure systems caused by pipe strain. These leaks can release hazardous substances, causing environmental damage, health risks, and operational disruptions.
Reduced System Efficiency: Improperly supported pipes can experience increased friction, causing higher energy consumption to maintain the desired flow rates. This inefficiency can result in increased operational costs and decreased overall system performance.
Loss of Containment: In high-energy piping systems, failure to inspect supports can compromise containment integrity. A pipe rupture or leak called a “failure in the pressure-containing boundary,” can release hazardous materials, posing serious risks to personnel, nearby communities, and the environment.
Regulatory Non-Compliance: Many industries are subject to regulations and standards governing the inspection and maintenance of high-energy piping systems, including ASME B31.1 and 31.3 and API570. The implications of non-compliance can result in legal consequences and fines.
Increased Maintenance Costs: With regular inspections, minor issues can be managed so they do not escalate into costly and timely major problems, such as extensive repairs or complete system replacement.
Loss of Productivity: Unexpected failures and repairs can disrupt production schedules and lead to unplanned downtime, causing financial losses and impacting the company’s reputation.

Correct installation and regular inspections are essential to mitigate risks and ensure industrial facilities’ safe and efficient operation. We have a team of engineers and technicians who are qualified to inspect pipe supports and expansion joints and can assist with diagnosing problems, replacement, and identifying models, types, and sizes. We provide field service to our clients for all product categories we manufacture, even if we are not the OEM, because serving our clients is our first priority.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 11272017

F-Type Variable Springs with Rollers

July 18, 2023

Type:	Variable Springs w/ Rollers
Size:	Springs: 11.1/16″ H \| Rollers: 24″ -36″ Dia.
Design:	700-15,970 lb. Loads \| 650°F Temp.
Material:	HDG Carbon Steel \| Cast-iron
Testing:	Standard Load Testing & Q.C. Inspection

Variables use coiled springs to support a load and allow movement. The resistance of the coil to a load changes during compression, which is why these devices are called “variables”. We offer a variety of different designs of variable spring pipe supports. View Variable Spring Supports Product Section.

For this application, the variable spring with rollers were used in natural gas compressor stations in Texas. Compressor stations are an essential part of a natural gas pipeline that moves natural gas from one location to another. At these stations, natural gas is re-pressurized and sent back into the pipeline system where it travels until the next compressor station. The location and distance between compressor stations is dependent on terrain, and the number of gas wells in the vicinity. Frequent elevation changes and a greater number of gas wells will require more compressor stations.

The compressor station, also called a pumping station, is the “engine” that powers a long-distance natural gas pipeline. As the name implies, the station compresses the gas (increasing its pressure) thereby providing energy to move it through the pipeline. The compressor is driven by a motor fueled by some of the natural gas bled from the pipeline. The size of the station and the number of compressors (pumps) varies, based on the diameter of the pipe and the volume of gas to be moved.

Piping Technology and Products and its subsidiaries provide products and services to this critical piece of the energy infrastructure with not only variable spring supports with rollers showcased here, but also with insulated supports, expansion joints, pipe shoes, guides, and anchors.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02172020

Compact Springs Designed for an Oil Refinery Expansion Project

June 13, 2023

Type:	Compact Spring Supports (Disc Springs)
Material:	Carbon Steel \| PTFE, 25% Glass-Filled
Design:	Movement: 1/32″ to 1/4″ \| Load: 12,000 lb.
Testing:	Standard Spring Rate & Calibration Tests

These compact spring supports were custom designed for an oil refinery expansion project. They will be installed underneath a heat exchanger supporting a load of up to 12,000 lb. The space available was limited to 3" for the installed height, and the movements ranged from 1/32" to 1/4". These units are the perfect solution for tight spaces where the distance between the supporting steel and the equipment/pipeline is extremely limited. These compact springs are fabricated from carbon steel and utilize engineered Belleville (disc spring) washers to achieve the desired spring rate. 25% glass-filled (PTFE) slide plates are bonded to the top of the load flange and provide a low coefficient of friction in order to adjust the spring’s height.

Here at Piping Technology and Products, we manufacture a wide range of variable spring supports along with constant spring supports. Our experience and know-how have helped to facilitate designs to incorporate site conditions where no conventional support is available.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03092017

Variable Spring Supports Designed for a Furnace in Trinidad

April 11, 2023

Type:	F-Type Variable Spring Supports (Furnace Springs)
Material:	Carbon Steel \| Red Oxide Primer
Design:	Movement: 1/2 “\| Load: 398 lb. \| Spring Rate: 84 lb./in.
Testing:	Standard Spring Rate & Calibration Tests

PT&P designed and manufactured these F-Type variable spring supports for use in a furnace at a facility in Trinidad. We manufactured these furnace springs for an operating load of 398 lb., a movement up to 1/2″, and a spring rate of 84 lb./in. Customer specifications required a modified “installed height” while maintaining the spring rate, operating load and installation load. In order to accomplish this, PT&P designed, manufactured, and attached, to each spring, a “pedestal” to accomplish the increased installed height. They are fabricated from carbon steel with a red oxide primer coating (instead of a hot dipped galvanized) to protect against corrosion. Our standard hot-dipped galvanizing is not suitable for high temperatures because the zinc used in the galvanizing process can melt and cause damage to surrounding pipes and equipment. We also offer several other coatings for high-temperature applications.

We offer a wide range of modifications to our standard variable springs, from stainless steel units used in Food Processing plants and facilities which operate at Sub-Zero temperatures to units designed for use in high-temperature applications often found in refineries, fertilizer, and chemical plants. Some applications include hydrogen reboilers and radiant coils in gas vent heater systems. Our team of sales, engineering, and manufacturing offers a unique source of experience and knowledge unmatched in our industry.

In a Furnace application, both variable and/or constant spring hangers are utilized to support piping and equipment. In the past year, we have provided constant furnace springs for some of the largest refineries in the Americas. We replaced a 25-year incumbent design with a smaller envelope at a lower cost than any other offering in the market with our newly designed nano-constant. The project requirements were stringent in terms of load deviation requirements of 3% of all catalyst tube springs. We provided over 350 furnace springs in less than six months’ time from our manufacturing facility in Houston, Texas. To expedite the manufacture and shipment of springs, we built a new test machine in order to conduct tests more quickly, as every unit is tested before being shipped to the job site.

If you need assistance or are interested in scheduling a virtual or in-person training specifically on pipe supports and expansion joints for furnace applications, reach out as we are always available 24×7 via our emergency service or just send an email to [email protected].

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02212017

Compact Spring Supports Designed for an Oil Refinery in Minnesota

April 4, 2023

These compact spring supports were custom designed for an oil refinery in Minnesota. Typically, compact spring supports are used to support large loads but small movements relieving process equipment nozzles from overloading. In this case, the springs are designed to support loads of 5,605 lb., 4,747 lb. and 1,250 lb. and movements of 0.133” and 0.029” upward and 0.199″ downward, respectfully.

Compact spring supports utilize engineered Belleville (disc spring) washers. Since these spring supports contain disc springs, both the support housings and the springs contained in the housings are made from 304 stainless steel. Corrosion resistance is significantly increased by using this combination. Glass coatings can also be applied to both the housing and springs to make the support system virtually impervious. Each assembly underwent load testing prior to shipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 04122016

Constant Assemblies Custom-Designed for Hot Service at a Leading Plastic Manufacturing Plant in North Carolina

February 28, 2023

Type:	Custom-Designed Constant Spring Supports
Size:	PTP-100 B-Type \| 16” x 24” x 30”
Material:	A36 Carbon Steel \| Hot-dipped Galvanized\| Epoxy Coating
Design:	Load Range: 2,280 lb. to 7,143 lb. \| 2″ Total Travel
Testing:	Q.C. Inspection \| Load and Travel Tests

PT&P custom-designed constant spring support with travel stop adjustment rods for a manufacturing company. We “re-created” the design of constants sold years ago by our now sister company, Fronek Anchor/Darling. The constants needed to fit the “envelope” or space of the original constants sold to this client for an application in an existing plant. The constants were fabricated from A36 carbon steel, hot-dipped galvanized, and painted with an epoxy coating. The assemblies are designed for an operating load ranging from 2,280 lb. to 7,143 lb. with 2″ of total travel. Standard load and travel test and Q.C. inspections were completed prior to shipment to North Carolina.

We have a great deal of experience manufacturing constant spring supports similar to those of existing constants, if needed to fit existing space limitations. We can also refurbish constants manufactured by competitors if the units are repairable. So whether the constants are for large duct systems in power and refining plants or focused around renewable, carbon-neutral plants, we can assist our clients to find a cost-effective solution.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 08042020