F-Type Variable Spring Supports Designed for a Petrochemical Plant in Canada

February 27, 2024

F-Type Variable Spring Supports Designed for a Petrochemical Plant in Canada

Type: F-Type Variable Spring Support Assemblies
Size: Heights up to 12-3/4”
Spring Casing Diameters from 6-5/8” to 8-5/8”
Base plates from 9″x 9″ to 13-1/4” x 13-1/4″
Design: Operating Temp.: -49°F to 122°F
Operating Loads from 697 lb. to 6093 lb.
Movements of 0.04″ to 0.2”
Material: Hot-dipped Galvanized Carbon Steel
Testing: Load & Travel Test |  Q.C. Inspection

Piping Technology and Products, Inc. recently designed and manufactured F-Type variable spring supports with internal load columns for a petrochemical plant in Canada. The variables are fabricated from carbon steel that is able to accommodate low temperatures (A516-GR. 70N). The operating temperature ranges from -49°F to 122°F while supporting operating loads from 697 lb. to 6093 lb. and movements of 0.04″ to 0.2″. They are designed to accommodate installed heights up to 12-3/4″, with spring casing diameters from 6-5/8″ to 8-5/8″, along with base plates from 9″x 9″ to 13-1/4″ x 13-1/4″ for installing either by bolting or welding in the field. Load and travel tests, along with visual Q.C. inspections were performed before shipment.

Variable supports are typically used for the following considerations in piping systems:

  • Compensating for Thermal Expansion
  • Maintaining Stress and Load
  • Installation in Piping Systems
  • Maintenance
  • Supporting Heavy Loads

Variable spring cans play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and stability of piping systems by compensating for thermal expansion or contraction, supporting heavy loads, and allowing for vertical movement. They are essential components in industries such as petrochemical, power generation, semiconductor, refining, paper and pulp processing, and other applications where large-scale piping systems are employed.

Variable spring cans come in a variety of designs and are constructed using different materials to suit specific applications and environmental conditions. Materials commonly used for variable spring cans include carbon steel, stainless steel, and special alloys. The selection of materials is crucial to ensure that the device can withstand the corrosive effects of certain fluids or harsh environmental conditions.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 05192020

F-Type Variable Spring Supports with Graphite Slide Plates

December 19, 2023

F-Type Variable Spring Supports with Graphite Slide Plates Designed for an Oil Refinery

Type: Variable Spring Supports with Graphite Slide Plates
Materials: CS | HDG | High Heat Aluminum Finish | Graphite
Load Range: 420 lb. to 7650 lb. | 0.65″ Upward Movement
Design: 700°F Temperature | Q.C. & Load Tests

PT&P custom designed an F-type variable spring supports with graphite slide plates for an oil refinery in California. Client inspection O.C. inspections and load tests were conducted prior to shipment.

The graphite slide plates are used to accommodate the axial and lateral movement of the pipeline. Each assembly is equipped with specially designed “round” base plates (instead of the standard square plates) and is designed for temperatures up to 700°F. The spring cans are designed for a load range from 420 lb. to 7,650 lb. and movements up to 0.65″. In this case, they are finished with high-heat aluminum instead of our standard hot-dipped galvanized finish due to the high-temperature requirements in which these units will be operating. We have the unique capability to work with different materials based on the design needs. Variable spring supports, along with our array of engineered support solutions, stand as a fundamental pillar of our business. They enable us to actively collaborate with our clients, whether it involves the products we’ve manufactured, systems subjected to pipe stress and Finite Element Analysis (FEA), or items serviced through the expertise of our field service team.

For many of our products, we have the ability to build and deliver support in less than 24 hours should an emergency arise. It is useful to keep our emergency information handy on your phone and computers should an unforeseen moment arise. Please share this with your maintenance, fixed equipment, and reliability teams. To bookmark or for more information about our emergency assistance, please click here.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 09242018

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

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

F-Type Variable Springs with Rollers

July 18, 2023

 

F-Type Variable Spring Support & Pipe Roller Assemblies Designed for a Fabrication Company in Texas

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

Custom All Stainless Steel Variable Spring Supports for a Floating LNG Platform in Singapore

May 30, 2023

Custom All Stainless Steel Variable Spring Supports for a Floating LNG Platform in Singapore

Type: Variable Spring Supports
Material: Alloy 2205 Duplex/SAE 5160H
Design: Operating Load up to 3,597 lbs./Operating Temperatures of -15-200°F
Testing: Standard Load & Travel Tests

PT&P manufactured these custom variable spring supports for a floating LNG platform in Singapore. The spring housings are fabricated with alloy 2205 duplex, and the coil is manufactured from – SAE 5160H to help prevent corrosion due to sea salt. The variables installed heights range from 10-3/4″ to 12-1/16″ and are designed for an operating load of up to 3,597 lbs. Also, load tests were performed at operating temperatures of -15°F, along with liquid penetrant testing of the welds. These variable springs are also designed to suit a highly corrosive environment such as sea salt. They can operate in temperatures ranging from -14 to 200°F without compromising their load-carrying capacity. We offer a full range of pipe supports and expansion joints for offshore applications, including floating platforms for cryogenic systems for offshore LNG transfer, both for ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore. Our team of engineers and field service technicians have assisted in offshore diving examinations to both inspect and recommend solutions to help solve emergency needs.

As the floating LNG market continues to grow at a rate of almost 5% year over year, it is evident the increased demand for clean energy is the driving factor. Piping Technology and Products and its subsidiaries are well-positioned to support the global pivot to renewable and clean energy needs. In the last year alone, we designed and delivered products and services in most associated sectors, including solar, wind, water, geothermal, bioenergy, nuclear, hydrogen & fuel cell sectors worldwide.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 01022018

Variable Springs with Clevis Hangers for an Ethylene Cracker Plant

January 31, 2023

B-Type Variable Spring Supports with Clevis Hangers for an Ethylene Cracker Plant in Texas

Type: Variable Spring Supports with Clevis Hangers
Material: A36 Carbon Steel | 304 Stainless Steel
Design: 800°F | 619 lb. Ld. | 0.5″ Up Travel
Testing: Load and Travel Tests

Piping Technology & Products designed these B-Type variable spring supports with clevis hangers for an ethylene cracker plant in Texas. Interestingly enough, we recently supplied over 50,000 supports to one of the largest ethane cracker polymer plants in the US, which was completed last year. In addition to variables, we supplied slide bearing plates, hot and cold insulated shoes/supports, snubbers/sway braces/sway struts, pipe hanger hardware, expansion joints metal bellows, rectangular & circular spacers, davit arms, welded pipe shoes, rod hanger assembly, and wear Pads

On this client order, the variable spring supports, threaded rods, and hex nuts were fabricated from A36 carbon steel, and the clevis hangers from 304 stainless steel. The assemblies are 83-1/8″ in length, and the spring size is 6-80-B. They are designed for an operating temperature of 800°F, an operating load of 619 lb, and 0.5″ of movement. Standard load and travel tests were performed prior to shipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 06052018

Variable Springs for a High-Temperature Furnace Application

June 13, 2022

PT&P Custom Designed Furnace Spring Support Cans For Chemical Plant
PT&P custom-designed and fabricated variable spring supports for a furnace application at a chemical plant in California. The furnace cans are manufactured from carbon steel and painted with red oxide primer because they are exposed to high temperatures where hot-dipped galvanizing is not feasible. The springs are designed for an operating load of 1,261 lb., with movement of 9″ and dimensions of 6″ x 52″ in length. Load tests were performed prior to a 12-14 week shipment.

Within a Reformer, heat-resistant cast alloy tubes are used to produce hydrogen during the process of desulfurization in refining plants, ammonia, methanol, and fertilizer plants. These catalyst tubes (also called reformer tubes) are periodically changed within the units after years of operating under high pressure and temperatures. The new or replacement tubes are manufactured from alloy material that can be lighter or heavier than the previous tubes installed. As a result of this weight change, new furnace springs may also need to be replaced.

Most recently we completed a project for a key client for the largest refinery in Central America with a specialized design using our nano-constant, the world’s smallest constant spring hanger. It supports 765 pounds of load and 7″ of travel in a 0.89 cubic foot envelope (7″ x 10″ x 22″). This particular furnace application required very stringent requirements of load deviation of less than 3% and all supports were made from stainless steel to meet furnace requirements. So, for these particular units, no coating was required since they were manufactured from stainless steel. In order to accomplish this special requirement, our engineering team designed and manufactured a new constant load test machine in-house.

We have manufactured various types of furnace springs and constants for a variety of EPC firms over the past few decades. Our experience and knowledge of the different designs and configurations have helped us to become one of the leading manufacturers of springs and pipe supports for furnace applications.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07232018

152 Variable Spring Supports for a Furnace Application at an Ammonia Plant

March 7, 2022

Ptp variable furnace springs 151617

PT&P custom-designed and manufactured over 150 variable spring supports for a furnace application at an ammonia plant. The ammonia plant was the largest single train plant of its kind in the world for the leader in mineral-based commodity and specialized fertilizer production. As an important base to material for fertilizers, ammonia helps put food on the table as the engine of plant growth. Over 85% of anhydrous ammonia is used as fertilizer for the three primary nutrients of fertilizer: nitrogen, phosphates, and potash. The plant and the EPC for which these were designed and manufactured were in Europe highlighting Piping Technology and Products’ robust international footprint in the marketplace for over 47 years. We serve over 90% of the countries in the world covering almost all continents. Outside of use in the fertilizer industry, ammonia is positioned to have a key role in our renewable-based, lower carbon footprint hydrogen economy supporting on-board hydrogen carrier for fuel cell activities given its high capacity for hydrogen storage based on its molecular structure.

These furnace springs are fabricated from carbon steel and painted with a red-oxide primer to help prevent corrosion. We also designed and manufactured 304 stainless steel pipe clamps to attach the furnace springs to catalysis tubes within the furnace. They are designed to support a cold load of almost 3,000 lb./in. while operating in an area where temperatures are higher than ambient. There were a total of 173 assemblies fabricated for this project, 152 variable hangers, 3 constant spring supports, 6 ball joint rigid struts, and 12 rigid rod hangers. Special load tests were performed before shipping.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 08072017

Variable Spring Supports for a Major Pipeline Expansion Project

February 1, 2022

Ptp variable spring 182218

PT&P supplied F-type variable spring supports for pipeline 1150km long carrying various kinds of crude and refined products including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The expansion tripled the capacity of the current line allowing for it to carry 85% of what is transported through British Columbia increasing oil tanker capacity at the terminal seven times.

The 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, 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, 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.

Variable Spring Hangers Designed for a Biofuels Plant

May 25, 2021

Variable Spring Hangers Designed for a Biofuels Plant

PT&P designed and fabricated B-Type variable spring support assemblies for a biofuels plant. The variables will support pipelines that are involved in the process of converting feedstock into low-carbon synthetic crude oil. Primary biofuels are bioethanol and biodiesel. PT&P specializes in manufacturing pipe supports for high temperatures (above 750°F) applications. These variable springs will support loads up to 953 lb., insulated piping up to 1625°F, and with 1.5” upwards movement. A custom-designed 4-bolt riser clamp fabricated from A36 carbon steel for a 3” diameter pipe was also supplied for this order and used at another location in the plant. The rest of the variable spring assemblies utilized custom-designed 2-bolt pipe clamps manufactured from A240 316L stainless steel plate with A 193 GR. B8M CL.1 bolting for high temperatures. Since these variable springs were located outside the firebox and not exposed to high temperatures, they were fabricated from A36 carbon steel and hot-dipped galvanized for corrosion protection. Load and travel tests, along with Q.C. inspections were performed before shipment.

Load and travel tests, along with Q.C. inspections were performed before shipment. Biofuels are expected to double their market share by 2027. Biofuels are a subset of the new emerging demand and regulatory shift to renewables being seen in the energy sector. In addition to biofuels, other renewables include energy from solar, wind, hydroelectric, ocean, geothermal, and hydrogen sources. There has been a change in strategy for many refineries accelerated by the downturn due to COVID, to convert traditional fossil fuel refineries to renewables. With expertise and over 45 years of experience, PT&P is well-positioned to serve its customers and emerging players in the renewable energy sector. Piping Technology & Product’s specialty is the design and fabrication of products like furnace springs, constants, customized clamps, and hardware in supporting high-temperature headers and radiant coils within fired heaters.

240 Type-C Furnace Springs Supplied to Indonesia

December 16, 2019

 

240 Custom Designed Type-C Furnace Springs for a Furnace Application in Indonesia

Type: Variable Spring Supports
Size: 95-1/16” Overall Length
Material: A36 Carbon Steel
Design:  2,033 lb. Load | 225 lb./in Spring Rate
Testing: Load and Travel Tests

PT&P custom designed 240 of these Type-C furnace springs for a customer in Indonesia. The assemblies are completely fabricated from A36 carbon steel with a red oxide primer finish. The completed spring hanger assemblies are 95-1/16” overall length. They are designed for an operating load of 2,033 lbs and have a spring rate of 225 lbs./in. To ensure quality the furnace springs had a spring load test report and a spring calibration test to ensure spring rate shall not deviate more than +/- 5% from catalog value.

Variable Spring Supports Designed for a Highly Corrosive Environment in Peru

July 1, 2019

 

Variable Spring Supports Designed for a Highly Corrosive Environment in Peru

Type: Variable Spring Supports w/ PTFE Slide Plates
Size: PTP-4 | 9.5″ – 11.5″ Height
Design: 1/8″ Upward & 3/16″ Downward Travel
Material: HDG Carbon Steel | Gloss Aliphatic Polyurethane Topcoat | PTFE, 25% Glass Filled Slide Plates
Testing: Standard Load Testing & Q.C. Inspection

Piping Technology & Products, Inc. recently designed and fabricated F-type variable spring supports for a plant in Peru. The variables are fabricated from carbon steel, hot-dipped galvanized and a gloss aliphatic polyurethane topcoat was applied for corrosion protection. PTFE, 25% glass filled, slide plates are bonded to the top of the load flange to reduce the friction caused by lateral movement. The variables range from 9.5″ to 11.5″ in height and are designed for a travel range of 1/8″ upward to 3/16″ downward. To ensure quality, standard load testing was performed prior to shipping.

Variable Spring Hangers Designed for a Plant in Texas

April 22, 2019

Variable Spring Hangers Designed for a Plant in Texas

Type: B-Type Variable Spring Supports
Size: PTP 100 & 200 | 3′ – 8′ ft. Height
Design: 4,000 lb. – 17,000 lb. Loads
Material: HDG Carbon Steel | Neoprene Coated Springs
Testing: Standard Load Test | Q.C. Tests

Piping Technology and Products, Inc. recently designed and fabricated B-Type variable spring supports for a plant in Texas. The operating loads range from 4,000 lb. to 17,000 lb. The variable springs are fabricated from galvanized carbon steel, have neoprene coated steel spring coils, and are designed to operate in environments up to 750°F. They have an overall height range from 3 ft. to 8 ft″. To ensure quality, standard load tests were performed prior to shipment.

Variable Springs for a Propane Dehydrogenation Unit in Texas

November 5, 2018

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 unit in Texas. The spring cans, rods, welded beam attachments, turnbuckles and clevises are fabricated from hot-dipped galvanized carbon steel. The variables can accommodate an elevation difference up to 11’-5” from the bottom of the steel to the connection of the pipe. They were designed for an operating load of 20,000 lb., a spring rate of 4,700 lb./in. and 0.007” upward movement. Standard load testing was conducted prior to shipping.

How to Install a D-Type Variable Spring Support

October 10, 2017

View our installation procedure for our D-Type variable spring supports.

Spring Loading Procedure for Standard Variable Springs

View our loading procedure for standard variable springs. See how we test the variable springs prior to being shipped.

Variable Spring Supports Product Video

F-Type Variable Springs for a Refinery in Oklahoma

June 26, 2017

F-Type Variable Spring Cans for a refinery in Oklahoma

Type: Variable Spring Supports
Size: 70 7/8″ tall and 17 3/4″ wide
Material: Carbon Steel and PTFE Slide Plates
Design: 30,980 lb. load/2,083 lb. spring rate
Testing: 35,000 lb hydrotest

PT&P manufactured variable spring supports for a refinery in Oklahoma. These F-Type PTP-6 spring cans are 70 7/8″ tall and 17 3/4″ wide. They are completely fabricated from carbon steel with PTFE slide plates welded on the load flange and internal guide. They are designed for an operating load of 30,980 lb. .with a spring rate of 2,083 lb./in. and 0.49″ of movement. These variables were hydrotested with a load of 35,000 lb. prior to shipment.

Type-C Variable Assemblies with Dual Travelers for a De-coker Unit

December 22, 2016

Type-C Variable Assemblies with Dual Travelers for a De-coker Unit

Type: Variables with dual travelers
Design: Operating load: 1,698-21,756 lbs
Material: A36 Carbon Steel with HDG finish
Size: Horizontal Travelers range from size 2 to size 4

These dual travelers with Type-C variable spring hanger assemblies were custom designed by Piping Technology & Products for valves in a de-coker unit in Texas. All completed assemblies were fabricated from A36 carbon steel with an HDG finish. The travelers range from size 2 to size 4 and are designed for 12″ of horizontal movement. The variables are designed for an operating loads ranging from 1,698-21,756 lbs.

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