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Variable Supports Fabricated in 48 hours for an Emergency Plant Shutdown
October 1, 2024

Variable Spring Supports Fabricated in less than 48 hours for an Emergency Plant Shutdown Overseas in the Asia-Pacific Region

PT&P received a rush order for variable spring supports at 4:41 pm, quite late into the workday; however, this is business as usual, our manufacturing facility in Houston, TX operates 24/7 to support our customers.

Variable Spring Supports Fabricated in Less than 48 hours for an Emergency Plant Shutdown Overseas in the Asia-Pacific Region Variable Spring Supports Fabricated in Less than 48 hours for an Emergency Plant Shutdown Overseas in the Asia-Pacific Region
In this case, the customer’s olefins plant was experiencing significant losses and urgently needed to replace the springs to resume operations. Seven variable springs were designed, fabricated, and shipped within just two days to minimize downtime.

The F-type variable spring support is designed to support piping from below, directly from the foundation, concrete column, or supporting structural pipe rack steel. Adjustment is made by inserting a bar into holes in the load column and turning the load column as a jackscrew. As global leaders in variable spring manufacturing, we leveraged our adaptive manufacturing processes, utilizing pre-fabricated in-house components that allow for quick assembly as soon as orders are placed.

These variables were fabricated from carbon steel and hot-dipped galvanized for corrosion protection. They are designed to support loads ranging from 713 lb. to 1668 lb. and movements of 0.148″ to 0.133″. Load and travel tests, along with Q.C. inspections were performed before shipment.

Variable springs are used in many applications that include:

 

  • Paper and Pulp Mills
  • Petrochemical refineries for plastics, chemicals, polymers
  • Renewable plants for solar, carbon black, hydrogen, blue ammonia, and biochar facilities
  • Power plants for nuclear and fossil fuel power

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 04132021

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Hydraulic Snubbers Designed for LLDPE Chemical Plant
September 24, 2024

Hydraulic Snubbers Designed for LLDPE Chemical Plant

The Fronek A/DE hydraulic snubber is a manifold-designed hydraulic device that includes a high-pressure main cylinder, a flow control section with dual-stage velocity-sensitive poppet valves, and a spring-energized reservoir.   These Fig. 511 AD long hydraulic snubbers were created for a linear low-density (LLDPE) chemical plant in Louisiana. The snubbers with two (2) rear brackets range in length from 34-⅝” to 49”. They are designed with spherical, self-aligning ball bushings that allow for + 5° of angular motion or misalignment. The snubbers can handle maximum loads varying up to 5520 lb. Cylinder sizes are 1-½” and 2-½” and have a 6” stroke. The hydraulic fluid is petroleum based and the seals are a mix of buna-nitrile and polyurethane and the pressurized hydraulic reservoir allows mounting in any spatial orientation. The snubbers are painted with a primer that utilizes zinc filled powder manufactured by Tnemec. Ⓡ  The formulation for the primer is Series H90-97 | Tneme-Zinc. Ⓡ

Specific applications where hydraulic snubbers are commonly used include:

  • Power Plants (Nuclear and Thermal): To protect piping and equipment from seismic events or pressure surges.
  • Petrochemical and Oil Refineries: To mitigate damage from vibrations, pressure fluctuations, and thermal expansion.
  • Industrial Piping Systems: To prevent failure due to dynamic forces like water hammer or large temperature swings.
  • Bridges and Structures: To absorb and reduce the effect of seismic or wind-induced forces.
  • Marine and Offshore Platforms: To protect against waves and operational vibrations.

Hydraulic snubbers are critical in environments where sudden forces could lead to catastrophic failures or damage. At both Fronek A/D and PT&P, we offer a wide range of experience and expertise in the manufacture and design of various pipe supports while maintaining a competitive price. We also offer 24×7 web-based emergency services, providing field service and quick turn-around time when you need it most.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 06212016

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100-E Type Constant Spring Supports Custom Designed for a Power Plant in Canada
September 17, 2024

100-E Type Constant Spring Supports Custom Designed for a Power Plant in Canada

Type: Constant Spring Supports
Size: 52 1/4″ x 62 1/8″
Material: Carbon Steel
Design: Operating Load 21,600 to 26,350 lbs & of 3-7” of Movement
Testing: Standard Load & Travel Tests

PT&P custom designed and manufactured constant spring supports for a power plant in Canada. Four constant assemblies were fabricated using carbon steel and hot-dip galvanized to prevent corrosion. The custom-designed constants, sized and identified as 100-73 Type-E and 100-69 Type-E, were manufactured for a thermochemical process within the plant. These supports are designed for operating loads of 21,600 lbs. and 26,350 lbs., respectively, both with an operating movement of 3.7 inches. Load and travel testing were completed before shipment.

Constant spring supports are used for piping and related components where higher levels of vertical travel occur. Their job is to support the working load over the whole travel area while keeping it constant, i.e. without any considerable deviations. Constant spring supports are available in horizontal or vertical designs, and in a variety of sizes to accommodate different loads, movements, and hanger arrangements.

They maintain a consistent support force as pipes expand or contract with temperature changes. This helps:

      • Manage Pipe Movement: Accommodates changes in pipe position due to temperature variations.
      • Maintain Alignment: Keeps pipes properly aligned, preventing misalignment issues.
      • Reduce Thermal Stress: Minimizes stress caused by thermal expansion and contraction.
      • Handle Variable Loads: Provides reliable support under varying conditions.
      • Ensure Versatility: Suitable for both high-temperature and cryogenic systems.

Our capability to quickly design and manufacture these supports is unmatched in the industry. Our Houston-based operations run 24/7, ensuring we can handle small emergency requests and maintain high production capacity for our clients’ needs. Constant springs can be used in several applications. We have designed and manufactured for different industries all over the world. Some of the industries we have supported are energy and utilities, geothermal, oil & gas, petrochemical & chemical, renewable energy & environmental solutions, industrial & manufacturing, and infrastructure.

Our wide range of industry expertise demonstrates our unique ability to provide solutions across the globe in every sector we serve.

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Cryogenic Insulated Pipe Supports Designed for a Petrochemical Complex in Louisiana
September 3, 2024

Cryogenic Pipe Supports Designed for a Petrochemical Complex in Louisiana

Type: Pre-Insulated Pipe Supports for Cryogenic Application
Size: 46″ – 52″ Diameter Range | 10 lb. & 20 lb. Density PUF Foam
Material: Hot-dipped Galvanized Carbon Steel | PUF | Polyester Film & Aluminum Foil
Testing: Dimensional and Visual Inspection

These cold shoe pre-insulated pipe supports were designed for a cryogenic pipeline at a petrochemical complex in Louisiana. These supports range in size from 46" to 52" in diameter and are engineered for temperatures as low as -20°F. The supports feature a dual-density polyurethane foam (PUF) insulation: the top portion has a density of 10 lb., while the bottom is 20 lb. high-density PUF. The shoe and bearing plates are constructed from carbon steel and finished with hot-dip galvanization for durability and corrosion protection. These cold shoes also include a vapor barrier, consisting of a three-layer lamination of polyester film and aluminum foil, ensuring effective insulation. Standard quality control tests were conducted on all units before shipment to ensure compliance with performance standards.

This type of cold shoe design is also utilized on liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tanks. Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) storage tanks are specialized containers designed to store LNG, which is natural gas that has been cooled to a liquid state at approximately -260°F (-162°C). This liquefaction process reduces the volume of the gas by about 600 times, making it much more efficient to store and transport. Most LNG tanks are double-walled with an inner and outer shell. The inner shell, typically made of stainless steel or nickel alloy, contains the LNG, while the outer shell, often made of carbon steel or concrete, provides structural support and can store up to 200,000 cubic meters or more.

Our pre-insulated pipe support portfolio is the most complete in terms of the types of insulation we work with and the industries we serve. We design and manufacture supports with:

  1. Permali (Cold Shoe) – Temperature range: Ambient to -300°F – Compressive strength: 22,000 PSI – Tensile strength: 28,000 PSI **

  2. Micarta (Cold Shoe) – Temperature range: Ambient to -300°F – Compressive strength: 39,000 PSI – Tensile strength: 12,000 PSI **

  3. Polyurethane (Cold Shoe) – Temperature range: Ambient to -300°F – Compressive strength: 200 PSI to 911 PSI (dependent on density) – Tensile strength: 12,000 PSI

  4. Foam Glass (Cold or Hot Shoe)** – Temperature range: -450°F to 1,000°F – Compressive strength: 100 PSI – Tensile strength: 50 PSI

  5. Marinite (Hot Shoe) – Temperature range: Ambient to 1,200°F – Compressive strength: 2,000 PSI – Tensile strength: 500 PSI **F. Calcium Silicate (Hot Shoe)** – Temperature range: Ambient to 1,200°F – Compressive strength: 160 PSI – Tensile strength: 50 PSI

The supports can be manufactured with carbon steel or stainless or the material the project may require. The thrush plates can be hastelloy, inconel, etc depending on the pipe material. Working with different metallurgies is a part of standard manufacturing protocols.

These supports are deployed in semiconductor, petrochemical, nuclear, blue hydrogen, blue ammonia, solar, LNG, pharma, data centers, automotive, mines, pulp/paper, building materials, food processing and EV battery plants.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03282017

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Variable Springs for a Propane Dehydrogenation Unit in Texas
August 27, 2024

Variable Spring Supports for a Propane Dehydrogenation Unit in Texas

Type: Variable Spring Supports
Size: Accommodate Elevation Difference up to 11′-5″
Material: Carbon Steel | Hot-dipped Galvanized
Design: 20,000 lb. Load | 4,700 lb./in. Spring Rate

PT&P designed and manufactured over 50 variable spring supports for a propane dehydrogenation (PDH) unit in Texas. The components, including the spring cans, rods, welded beam attachments, turnbuckles, and clevises, were fabricated from hot-dipped galvanized carbon steel to ensure durability and corrosion resistance. These variable spring supports are engineered to accommodate an elevation difference of up to 11’-5″ from the bottom of the steel structure to the pipe connection. They are designed to handle an operating load of 20,000 lb., with a spring rate of 4,700 lb./in., and facilitate a 0.007″ upward movement. Each support underwent standard load testing before being shipped to ensure they met the required specifications and performance standards.

In addition to spring supports, PDH units require other products from the Piping Technology and Products portfolio. Our field service team regularly works with PDH units by doing inspections and fine-tuning the supports because of the heavy loads the equipment requires. The experience of our team coupled with the knowledge and access to our specialized tools and equipment has clients calling us on a regular basis.

Spring supports are one example of what we can provide, but we also have designed and manufactured floating rings, fabric and metallic expansion joints, slide plates, constant supports, and fabricated pipe shoes, guides, and anchors in PDH units. PDH plants have the unique challenge of having high-temperature requirements.

Increasing demand for propylene in various industries such as automotive, packaging, and construction is driving the growth of the PDH unit market. Propylene is a key ingredient in the production of various plastics and synthetic materials, which are in high demand globally. Rising investments in petrochemical infrastructure in emerging economies, particularly in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, are creating new opportunities for PDH unit manufacturers. The increasing demand for petrochemical products in these regions is driving the installation of new PDH units.

Variable spring supports are widely used in various industrial applications where pipelines, equipment, or structures experience vertical movement due to thermal expansion, weight changes, or other dynamic loads. Some common applications are heat exchangers, reactors, steam pipelines, high-temperature piping, and pumping stations to name a few. At PT&P, we specialize in designing and manufacturing custom variable spring supports tailored to meet the specific needs of both new plant constructions and retrofitting projects. Our expertise extends to creating custom solutions that seamlessly integrate into existing applications in older plants, even when the design is based on a competitor’s model. This flexibility ensures that our clients receive the optimal support system for their unique requirements, regardless of the plant’s age or existing infrastructure.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 11062018

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Hold-Down Pipe Clamps for a Steam Methane Reformer (SMR) Supplying High-purity Hydrogen
August 20, 2024

Hold-Down Pipe Clamps Designed to Limit Vibration Caused by Rotating Equipment and Avoid Damage to the Surrounding Piping System

PT&P has significant expertise in the custom design and fabrication of hold-down pipe clamps, specifically tailored for piping systems and skid-mounted units across the power, chemical, and refinery industries worldwide. These hold-downs are engineered to minimize vibration caused by rotating equipment and to protect the surrounding piping systems from potential damage.

The hold-downs are constructed from carbon steel and feature a hot-dipped galvanized coating for enhanced durability. To further improve their performance, PTFE slide plates are incorporated into the design, which reduces friction between the pipe and the clamp, allowing for controlled movement when necessary. Additionally, fabric pads are used to enhance vibration dampening, ensuring the integrity of the system.

These clamps are designed for pipelines with diameters ranging from 2″ to 16″. The dimensions of the hold-downs vary, with sizes ranging from 3″ wide x 9-1/8″ long to 8″ wide x 25-3/4″ long. They are built to withstand operating temperatures of up to 200°F. A meticulous Quality Control visual inspection was conducted prior to shipment, ensuring that only the highest quality products are delivered.

Hold-downs are used in many applications. This year we have supplied them to refineries, semiconductor plants, chemical plants, and power plants. We were the first in the industry to create a catalog to make it easy for our clients to select what would work best in their application. Take a look at a Product Figure Index to see what we offer. PT&P can custom design and fabricate hold-downs for any pipe size application. Beyond hold-downs, PT&P also offers a variety of vibration control devices designed to accommodate different pipe orientations and locations, providing comprehensive solutions for vibration management in complex piping systems.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 09222020

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Graphite Slide Plates Ranging in Size from 4″ to 10″
August 13, 2024

 

 

Graphite Slide Plates for an Technology and Engineering Company in North Carolina

Type: Graphite Slide Plates
Size: 4”-10” Length | 4”-10″ Width
Material: Graphite Sheets | Carbon Steel
Design: 2000 PSI Operating Pressure

PT&P manufactured multiple graphite slide plates for a technology and engineering company in North Carolina. The materials for these slide plates are made of graphite sheets with carbon steel backing pads. The dimensions range in length 4″ to 10″ and width 4″ to 10″ with an operating pressure of 2000 PSI. The carbon steel backing pads are hot dipped galvanized. The graphite pads were then bonded to carbon steel backing plates with a ¾ lip all around to allow for field welding. For high temperature applications, we can also bond and bolt the graphite slides to the carbon steel backing plates.

The materials used for slide plates can be specified based on the design. Other materials used in addition to graphite are:

  • PTFE
  • Bronzephite
  • Stainless Steel
  • Marinite

Comparison Chart of the different options:

Temperature Max Load Coefficient of Friction
Graphite +1000F Air & +3000F Intert Loads up to 2000 PSI 0.15
PTFE -320F to +400F Loads up to 0.01 to 0.20
25%Glass filled 2000 PSI
Bronzphite Up to 500F Loads up to 5000 PSI 0.15
Stainless Steel Up to 1500F Loads up to 5000 PSI 0.06 to 0.08 (polished)
Marinite +400F to +800F 100 PSI to 2500 PSI 0.06 to 0.08

Common applications for slide plates include:

  • Bridges: Railroad, Highway, Overpasses
  • Vibration Pads
  • Heat Exchangers
  • Wind Tunnels
  • Transmission Towers
  • Offshore Drilling Rigs
  • Airports
  • Dust Collectors , Overpasses
  • Heavy Machinery
  • Refinery Equipment
  • Air Preheaters
  • Nuclear Applications
  • Storage Tanks
  • Domes

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07292019

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Variable Spring Supports for a Major Pipeline Expansion Project
July 30, 2024

Ptp variable spring 182218

PT&P supplied F-type variable spring supports for a pipeline 1150 km (715 miles) long carrying various kinds of crude and refined products including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. By removing the old pipeline and replacing it with a larger diameter pipeline, the capacity of this line tripled the previous capacity allowing for it to carry 85% more of what is transported through British Columbia. This increased, in turn, oil tanker capacity at the terminal seven times.

These spring supports are designed for small movements and operating loads ranging from 15,679 lb. to 19,688 lb. The housing is fabricated from A-36 carbon steel, hot-dipped galvanized, and then painted with 3 different coats (primer, intermediate, and topcoat) of paint to protect against the harsh Canadian winters while providing long-term protection against corrosion. These variables will include PTFE, 25% glass filled, and slide plates welded to the top of the load flange to allow for translational movement. Each spring is load tested and then preset to the specified installed load and inspected for quality assurance before shipment.

Why PT&P? For this particular project, the PT&P team worked with the client through the client’s six-month bidding process on the project. Our unique combination of experience, engineering expertise, and production knowledge enabled customers to secure the project. PTP addressed coating considerations, and technical queries, and met the demanding delivery needs of the project. PT&P’s turnaround time from PO receipt to the material on-site was 10 weeks.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02012022

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Custom Compact Springs Designed to Support a Storage Tank
July 15, 2024

PT&P partnered with Disc Spring Technology (DST) and is now manufacturing the compact spring support. Resolve your overloaded pump/ heat exchanger/ vessel nozzle loads with the DST Compact Spring Support. The DST Compact Spring Support is specifically designed to relieve excess loading on process equipment.

Benefits: Minimizes excessive loads on sensitive equipment, same load for smaller working range (25-50% less space), ideal for locating under equipment flanges & reduces design time, maintenance cost, and accidents.

Custom Compact Springs Designed to Support a Storage Tank

Type: Compact Spring Supports
Material: A-36 Carbon Steel | HDG | Stainless Steel
Design: 0.25″ Movement (upward) | 5,000 lb. Load
Testing: Load and Travel Testing

These compact spring supports were custom-designed to support a storage tank at a facility in Texas. The housing was fabricated from A-36 carbon steel and hot-dipped galvanized to protect them against corrosion. The disc springs are engineered using the stainless steel Belleville disc springs designed for large loads but small movements. In this case, the springs are designed to support a load of 5,000 lb. and movement of 0.25" (upward). The installed height can range from 5" to 10" depending on the client-specified load and movement. As a result, compact springs are ideal for "tight spaces" such as modular process skid mounted piping, machinery, and equipment for military and industrial applications. Disc springs can also be installed beneath rotating equipment (such as pumps and compressors) to help reduce or eliminate the transfer of vibration to associated steel and concrete structures. Each of these assemblies underwent load testing and visual inspection prior to shipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 10092017

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Mechanical Snubbers Designed for an Industrial Chemical Plant in Brazil
June 25, 2024

Mechanical Snubbers Designed for an Industrial Chemical Plant in Brazil

Type: Mechanical Snubbers
Size: Length: 40-3/8” to 60-3/4″
Material: Carbon Steel | Hot-dipped galvanized | Paint
Design: 1,000 lb.  – 6,000 Load | Stroke: 4″ – 5″

Mechanical snubbers are designed to allow pipe deflection in tension or compression when operating under normal conditions, but if an impulse load occurs (such as a water hammer, earthquake, wind, or other transient forces), the snubber becomes activated and acts as a rigid restraint to limit pipe movement. So, in general, mechanical snubbers t have two modes of operation. In passive mode, the resistance mechanism is disengaged and the snubber “free wheels” with very low resistance. In active mode, the mechanism is engaged, and the snubber limits the acceleration to a low threshold value, becoming a rigid restraint. Mechanical snubbers are used in nuclear, geothermal, and other green energy plants, as well as, the traditional chemical, refinery, and power plants. Our superior design combined with rugged construction and corrosion-resistant parts makes these units extremely reliable for a wide range of loads and movements. Typically, mechanical snubbers require no maintenance. Our team of engineers can also custom-design and test snubbers to accommodate your unique application.

For this particular project, in addition to the mechanical snubbers, we also supplied pre-insulated cold supports, constants, variables, and rod hangers which were delivered ahead of schedule to meet the client’s delivery needs. PT&P and its subsidiaries design and manufacture the largest range of products for piping systems globally. With today’s supply chain considerations, projects can mitigate risk by working with a single strategic supplier and ensuring timely project completion and success. Our approach is unique. The key factors are our focus on the following:

  • Systems – Proprietary systems allow PT&P to manage complexity
  • Engineering – 10 Industrial Engineers in Production
  • Automation – extensive investment in automation
  • Quality – ISO 9001 certified with a large QA team
  • Training – programs to grow personnel to highly artisan/skilled functions (e.g. TIG Welding Gauge Material)
  • Scale – 500+ Production Employees and over 10% of the team are engineers
  • Experience – 40+ years with 5M+ products in service

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07152022

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