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Custom Designed Upthrust Constant Spring Supports
November 19, 2024

Custom Designed Upthrust Constant Spring Supports

PT&P designed Fig. PTP 200-U upthrust constant spring supports modified to accommodate an increased installed height. PT&P fabricated these constant assemblies from A36 carbon steel. They were designed for temperatures up to 185°F, and a load of 15,737 lb. The constants are capable of a downward total travel of 2″ and are 61″ L x 25″ W x 39″ H. Standard load and travel tests were conducted prior to shipment.

When it comes to supporting piping and related components that experience significant vertical movement, constant spring supports are the go-to solution. These specialized supports are designed to keep the load consistent throughout the full range of movement, eliminating any significant deviations. But what makes them indispensable for industrial applications? Let’s break it down.

What Are Constant Spring Supports?

Constant springs maintain a steady supporting force as pipes expand and contract due to temperature changes. They come in horizontal or vertical designs and can be customized to handle various loads, movements, and configurations. Their ability to adapt to dynamic conditions ensures the integrity and efficiency of piping systems across diverse industries.

Key Benefits of Constant Spring Supports

  1. Manage Pipe Movement: Handle changes in pipe position caused by temperature fluctuations.
  2. Maintain Alignment: Prevent misalignment, ensuring pipes stay in proper positions.
  3. Reduce Thermal Stress: Minimize stress caused by thermal expansion and contraction.
  4. Adapt to Variable Loads: Provide reliable support in changing conditions.
  5. Versatility: Perfect for both high-temperature and cryogenic systems.

Constant spring supports find their way into a wide range of applications, including:

  • Piping Systems: Essential in refineries, power plants, and chemical processing facilities.
  • HVAC Systems: Support ducts in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
  • Steam Systems: Ensure proper alignment in steam piping for manufacturing and power generation.
  • Oil and Gas Pipelines: Compensate for temperature changes over long distances.
  • Process Equipment: Safeguard reactors, heat exchangers, and vessels from stress-induced damage.
  • Rotating Equipment: Reduce stress on pumps and compressors by supporting connected piping, prolonging equipment life.

Spotlight on U-Type Constant Springs

U-Type constant springs are particularly popular for their ability to provide steady support to pipelines, ducts, and other structures experiencing thermal movement. These springs play a vital role in maintaining system integrity and preventing damage across various industrial settings.

From managing thermal expansion in pipelines to safeguarding critical equipment, constant spring supports are the unsung heroes of industrial operations. Their reliability and adaptability make them an invaluable asset across countless applications.

At our Houston-based facility, we design and manufacture constant spring supports with unmatched speed and precision. Operating 24/7, we are equipped to handle both small emergency orders and large-scale production needs. Our expertise spans industries like energy, oil & gas, petrochemicals, manufacturing, and more—delivering solutions globally. Our wide range of industry expertise demonstrates our unique ability to provide solutions across the globe in every sector we serve.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03242015

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110 Custom Pipe Clamps for a Construction Company
October 29, 2024

110 Custom Designed Pipe Clamps For A Construction Company In Ohio

Type: Pipe Clamps
Size: 12″ wide | 42″ Dia. pipe
Material: A36 carbon steel with PVC pad
Testing: Standard Q.C. Inspections

Piping Technology and Products, Inc. custom-designed a total of 110 of these large pipe clamps for an interstate natural gas pipeline in Ohio. The pipe clamps are fabricated from A36 carbon steel with PVC pad bonded to the clamp’s inside radius. The pipe clamps have a physical size of 12" wide, for a 42" diameter pipe. Standard QC inspections were performed with a turn-around time of 8 weeks.

The interstate natural gas pipeline project focused on constructing a 256-mile route. The project, targeting the energy needs in the Midwest at the time. Clearing activities started in Lake Marlboro, Nimishillen, and Washington townships, setting up the groundwork for the pipeline route that would run from eastern Ohio to the northern and western parts of the state.

The exact number of pipe clamps stocked by Piping Technology & Products (PT&P) can vary in the hundreds, as we offer a wide range of pipe clamps to accommodate different pipe sizes, materials, and load requirements. PT&P typically stocks a variety of types, including standard pipe clamps, adjustable clamps, riser clamps, U-bolts, and custom clamps, such as these, designed for specific applications however, in most cases we fabricate specifically in our Houston headquarters to the project and client needs based on the design where sizes, material, and technical requirements may vary.

This year, we made significant capital investments in our manufacturing operations to enhance efficiency and deliver top-quality support structures in greater quantities, enabling faster field deliveries.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 04302018

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Big Ton Spring Supports Custom Designed for a Chemical Plant in Singapore
October 22, 2024

Big Ton Spring Supports Custom Designed For A Chemical Plant In Singapore

Type: Big Ton Spring Supports
Material: Carbon Steel/SAE 5160H
Design: 1.75″ up & Operating Load 130,642 N
Testing: Standard Load & Travel Tests

PT&P custom designed big ton spring supports for a chemical plant in Singapore. These supports are ideal for bearing the weight of large, heavy equipment such as compressors, vessels, and pumps in power and petrochemical plants. The supports feature a carbon steel housing and frame, with a spring coil made from SAE 5160H. The design allows for a controlled movement of 1.75 inches upward under an operating load of 130,642 N. This solution prevents the need for a complete redesign of the piping system, offering significant cost savings to the customer. These custom Big Ton supports were delivered within six weeks.

Throughout the years, we’ve encountered numerous instances where clients have approached us with unique and unconventional applications requiring either a completely new product or modifications to an existing one. A prime example is our Big Ton, which was developed in response to a client’s request for a support capable of bearing 1 million pounds. We’ve designed Big Tons for a range of industries, including LNG, petrochemical, refining, and PDH facilities. Beyond design and manufacturing, these supports undergo thorough in-house testing by our QC teams to ensure full functionality before being shipped to the client. Click here to watch a video to see how this support can be adjusted in the field.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 12262017

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Compact Spring Supports Designed for an Oil Refinery
October 15, 2024

Compact Spring Supports Designed For 9K Load At An Oil Refinery

Type: Compact Spring Supports
Material: Carbon Steel w/ Hot-Dipped Galvanized (HDG)
Design: 9,000 lb. Load | +/-0.125″ Vertical Movement
Testing: Load Testing

PT&P custom-designed 76 compact spring supports also known as “disc spring” supports, for a major oil refinery. These specialized supports are ideal for placement beneath equipment flanges to minimize excessive loads on delicate machinery. As an industry leader, PT&P has been supplying custom compact springs globally for over a decade.

Compact spring supports are essential for small-travel systems, helping prevent equipment failures, ensuring safe plant operations, and reducing operational costs. They provide the same load-bearing capacity as conventional springs while requiring 50% less space. If unaddressed, pipe strain can lead to issues such as misalignment, thermal expansion, and pipe lift-off, placing undue stress on expensive equipment.

In a typical refinery, pipe strain-related problems can result in pump repair costs exceeding $15 million annually. Compact springs play a vital role in supporting centrifugal pumps, compressors, air-cooled heat exchangers, vessels, and steam turbines. Additionally, they help facilities meet regulatory standards, including API, ASME, UBC, and compliance requirements from OSHA, EPA, WISHA, and other governing bodies.

The springs are constructed with stainless steel Belleville washers, while the housings are made from A-36 carbon steel and finished with a hot-dipped galvanized coating for corrosion resistance. Each assembly stands 3 inches tall, designed to support a 9,000-pound load with a movement capacity of +/- 0.125 inches (upward). Prior to shipment, every assembly underwent rigorous load testing to ensure performance.

Compact springs are engineered to reduce excessive loads on process equipment by effectively managing nozzle loads and maintaining flange seals. They can be installed directly beneath equipment, offering both space efficiency and performance reliability. Additionally, these springs are ideal for corrosive environments, such as those exposed to saltwater, marine air, or harsh chemicals. By utilizing corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel or applying amorphous glass coatings, compact springs are built to withstand even the most challenging conditions.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 10192021

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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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