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Saddle Support Spring Isolators for an Old Steam Chest Saddle
November 21, 2023

Saddle Support Spring Isolators Designed for an Old Steam Chest Saddle

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

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36” Dia. Cryogenic Pipe Saddles Designed for an LNG Facility
November 14, 2023

36” Dia. Cryogenic Pipe Saddles Designed for a LNG Facility

36” Dia. Cryogenic Pipe Saddles Designed for an LNG Facility

PT&P custom-designed pipe saddles with micarta base insulation for an LNG facility in Australia. The saddles were fabricated from 304L stainless steel plates with thickness ranging from 1/8″ to 3/8″. The micarta blocks range in thickness from 1/4″-3″. The saddles were designed to support pipes up to 36″ in diameter at an operating temperature of -300°F. Standard Q.C. and dimensional tests were performed prior to shipment.

A pipe saddle is any pipe support that cradles a pipe and transfers the pipe’s load weight onto a supporting base. Much like a saddle on a horse supports a rider and keeps them from bouncing on the animal, pipe saddles support a pipe’s weight. Pipe saddles are commonly used on large-diameter piping where the load is exceptionally heavy or when contraction-expansion movement is expected. Pipe saddles are welded to the pipe and are used in conjunction with roller supports or on-beam supports.

With the current uptick in global LNG demand driving US-based LNG production, Piping Technology and its subsidiaries are well-positioned to support large-scale projects in a timely manner. Our engineering and production teams work closely with our clients to ensure site, operator, and design needs are met. LNG demand is positioned to continue to grow by over 60% by 2035.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 10232015

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G-Type Variable Spring Assemblies Designed for an Oil & Gas Refinery in Texas
October 31, 2023

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

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

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Mechanical Snubbers for a Refinery in Oklahoma
October 17, 2023

Mechanical Snubbers for a Refinery in Oklahoma

Type: Mechanical Snubbers
Size: Size MSA-10, 36″ OAL, and 30 1/2″ Pin-To-Pin
Material: Carbon Steel with HDG Finish
Design: Operating load of 15,000 lbs and a 6″ Maximum Stroke
Testing: Standard Load Tests

Piping Technology & Products supplied these mechanical snubbers with two end brackets fabricated from carbon steel with an HDG finish for a refinery in Oklahoma. They are size MSA-10, 36" OAL, and 30 1/2" pin-to-pin. The snubbers are designed for an operating load of 15,000 lbs and have a 6" maximum stroke. Standard load tests were performed before shipment. Mechanical snubbers have two modes of operation. In passive mode, i.e., motion caused by thermal loads, the resisting mechanism is disengaged, and the snubber "free wheels" with very low resistance. The mechanism is engaged in active mode, and the snubber limits the acceleration of motion to a low threshold value.

In addition to refineries, mechanical snubbers are preferred for use in nuclear plants as they do not contain hydraulic fluids that could degrade over time. Mechanical snubbers are also used in chemical, power, and green energy plants such as solar and geothermal. Mechanical snubbers are also used in earthquake zones to limit shock or sway caused by seismic disturbances.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 05112017

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Constant Spring Support Assemblies for an LNG Plant in Central Africa
September 26, 2023

PT&P Designed and Fabricated Constant Spring Support Assemblies for an LNG Plant in Central Africa.

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:

Constant Spring Supports

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

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Pig Launchers and Receivers Designed for a Crude Export Pipeline
September 19, 2023

Pig Launchers and Receivers Designed for a Crude Export Pipeline

Sweco Fab., Inc. designed and fabricated pig (pipeline intervention gadget) launchers and receivers with closures for a crude export pipeline in Mexico. Pig Launchers and receivers are pressure-containing vessels or sections of piping within a pipeline system that are utilized for pipeline maintenance, cleaning, and inline inspection for upstream, downstream, and midstream operations. The design of the launcher and receiver depends on the pig and pipeline design conditions. Crude oil, wet gas, dry gas, and product lines are typically cleaned with pipeline pigs monthly or semi-annually.

These units were custom-designed per ASME CODE B31.3 and weighed 2,400 lb. They are 120″ in length and have 12″ dia. minor barrels and 18″ dia. major barrels. The barrels are fabricated from API 5L Gr. B pipe, the flanges from SA105, and the closures are manufactured from carbon steel. The launchers are designed for operating temperatures ranging from -20°F to 212°F at 943 psig. They were radiography-tested and hydro-tested on-site at our manufacturing facility at 1,415 psig for two hours.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02212014

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A-Type Variable Spring Supports for a Process Power Plant in Oklahoma
August 29, 2023

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

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

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Clamped Pipe Shoes Custom-Designed for an Offshore Vessel Project
August 22, 2023

Clamped Pipe Shoes Custom-Designed for an Offshore Vessel Project

These special clamped pipe shoes with isolators were supplied for an offshore vessel project. Offshore renewable energy companies are exploring the viability of developing an offshore charging facility for electrified vessels and using ammonia-powered or hydrogen-powered fuel cells to power marine vessels. As the world’s only major expansion joints and engineered pipe supports manufacturer, we are uniquely positioned to service various piping needs. The 210 pipe shoes were fabricated from carbon steel for pipe sizes ranging from 1″ to 24″ in diameter. They are supplied with a hot-dipped galvanized finish for corrosion resistance and range in length from 8″ to 16″ with 4″ from the BOP. These pipe shoes include a dampening isolator in between the pipe and the shoe to reduce vibration and noise. The isolator pad is typically made of a “rubber bonded cork elastomeric” which can be designed to suit the application for temperature and other system needs as specified.

1,485 supports were supplied for this order, including these pipe shoes. At Piping Technology and Products, we supply products to facilities that are helping to reduce carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 06292021

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Custom-Designed Hot Shoes
August 15, 2023

Hot Shoe Custom Designed for a 16-inch pipeline for a mining facility in the Caribbean

Type: Pre-Insulated Pipe Supports “Hot Shoes”
Size: 18″ Length | 16″ Dia. | 4″ Insulation
Material: A240 Gr. 304 L Stainless Steel | Firetemp®
Design: 25,000 lb. – 50,000 Load
Testing: Standard Q.C. Inspections

Piping Technology & Products, Inc. designed and manufactured pre-insulated pipe supports for a high-temperature pipeline for a gold mine. Our subsidiary, Pipe Shields, created this category and family of products.

The “hot shoes” are 16″ in diameter, including 4″ of insulation, and are 18″ in length. They are fabricated from A240 Gr 304 L stainless steel and high-density calcium silicate insulation. The insulation material is noncombustible and can be supplied in varying densities to accommodate different loading applications. This type of insulated support is also utilized in lithium battery plants, automotive manufacturing, data centers, semiconductor manufacturing facilities, sports stadiums, hospitals, and other facilities where there are high-temperature pipelines. In many cases, these lines are for chilled water, hot water, and HVAC systems. These hot shoes are custom designed to support loads from 25,000 lb. to 50,000 lb. at an operating temperature of 1,400°F. Standard tests were performed for a three-week rush job.

For this particular project, we provided a larger scope of material in addition to the pre-insulated supports shown here. We worked with the pipe module fabricator and the EPC for the same project. The scope of material and services included engineering services, insulated supports, pipe hanger hardware, clamps, rods, guides, anchors, structural bolts, nuts, and washers. The project dates back to 2010; however, this mine has last year undergone a plant expansion and mine life extension project designed to increase throughput and allow the operation to maintain a minimum annual gold production of approximately 800,000oz until 2040.

We regularly support customers for the life of their facilities, sometimes over 40 years. We see every customer relationship as long-term and strategic so we can be part of their continued success.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03262019

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