Process Piping is a term used to describe certain parts of the infrastructure within an industrial processing facility. Process Piping includes any system used to convey fluids (which can be liquids, gases, slurries, and combinations thereof) from place to place within the processing facility. In addition to simply moving the fluid, Process Piping is often used to mix, meter, analyze, distribute, or otherwise control the liquid as it is conveyed. It is important to note that Process Piping does not include the building service plumbing nor any piping used in power generation stations, which are called “power piping systems”.
Process Piping systems consist of piping, tubing, valves, fittings, strainers, flanges, pipe supports, and an endless list of other types of components. Each component of a Process Piping system must be carefully selected and specified for suitability for safe and reliable use not only to carry out the system’s basic tasks, but also to survive the environment in which it is placed within other systems in the facility. Environmental factors in the facility will include the air temperature, space limitations, vibration emanating from adjacent equipment, and many additional factors that vary from industry to industry and from facility to facility.
Process Piping System Design Considerations:
- Details of process
- Facility and surrounding environment
- Materials being conveyed
- Safety, reliability, and maintainability of the system
- Overall costs to install and maintain the system
Process Piping Relationship to Facility Profits
The costs to operate a processing facility are among the largest factors on determining whether or not one can remain profitable and stay in business. The efficiency and reliability of Process Piping systems can have a profound effect on the overall costs. Inefficient or unreliable systems can negatively affect end product quality, energy costs, maintenance budgets, and production capacity. If Process Piping systems are not properly designed, installed and maintained, the facility’s operations costs spiral upward. Competent experienced Process Piping engineering can solve any problems a facility encounters, thereby saving costs and improving profits. Un-scheduled downtime is the biggest killer of profitability, so it’s prudent to give a lot of attention to the details.
If you have any questions regarding Process Piping fundamentals, we can help, call now 408-295-2182.