A pipe is a crucial element in a wide range of industries, from food and beverage to biopharmaceuticals. Besides, transporting liquids and gases requires an intricate network of tubes and pipes that must adhere to strict regulations and standards. Safety and sanitation are paramount; this is where steel pipe fabricators come into play.
Let’s explore in detail, covering everything from the design of sanitary tubes and pipes to the materials used in their manufacture and learn how steel pipes run industries smoothly.
Designing of Sanitary Tubes & Pipes
- Sanitary process tube networks consist of interconnected pipes, connectors, fittings, pumps, tanks, valves and other equipment. They are in use due to their thinner walls, which allow for cleanable, autogenous, single-pass TIG welding and improved cleanability.
- The design of a sanitary process piping system begins with analyzing fluid properties such as temperature, pressure, viscosity and corrosiveness, as well as specific process requirements like flow rate and space limitations.
- Other considerations include the needs for CIP and SIP, free drain or straight pipe runs for components and the design and fabrication of necessary supports.
Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping Instrument Diagrams (PIDs) are essential tools for engineers designing sanitary tubes and pipes-
- PFDs provide an overview of the process, including the materials involved and the sequence of operations.
- PIDs show the detailed layout of the steel pipe fabrication, including the pipe sizes and specifications and the location of valves, pumps, and other components.
Pipe Requirements in Critical Sectors
Biopharmaceutical Industry
In this sector, high-grade steel pipes are used to prevent contamination, thus eliminating the potential risk of bacterial attack and withstanding high-pressure steam cleaning.
Dairy Industry
Steel Pipe is resistant to corrosion. Hence, they can withstand the harsh chemicals used in cleaning and sanitization.
Food & Beverage Industry
In the food and beverage industry, steel is a safe choice. It can withstand the high temperatures and pressures involved in food processing.
By considering these factors, steel pipe fabricators design and build pipes that meet the unique needs of each industry.
Material Used in Making Sanitary Tube & Pipes
Steel is the most used material for sanitary pipes, as it is durable, corrosion-resistant and easy to clean. Other materials used in making these sanitary pipes include copper, aluminum and plastic.
Joining Methods of Pipes & Tubes
Bevel Seat Fitting
This method involves welding a beveled end to a mating bevel seat ferrule. The fitting is then clamped onto the pipe or tube using a clamp or clamp gasket.
Butt Welding
This method involves welding two pieces of pipe or tube together using a weld bead along the joint.
Tri-Clamps
Tri-clamps are a type of clamp used to join pipes and tubes. They have three parts- a clamp, a gasket and a ferrule.
Connectors for Joining Sanitary Pipes
Some of the most common connectors used in steel pipe fabrication include-
- Clamps are used to hold pipes and tubes together securely. They come in different sizes and shapes to fit various pipe and tube diameters.
- Adaptors and reducers can connect pipes and tubes of different sizes.
- Gasket is an appropriate sealing material to join two pipes or tubes.
- For diverting or changing the direction of the flow of liquid or gas in a pipe or tube, laterals and wyes are used.
- Crosses are used to connect four pipes or tubes at right angles.
- End caps are fixed close to the end of a pipe or tube.
- Trees and elbows connect pipes or tubes at an angle.
Further Considerations Before Contacting Steel Pipe Fabricators
Pipe Insulation
Insulating pipes is vital to prevent heat loss or gain and to protect the pipes from the elements.
Pipe Supports
These are essential to prevent sagging or bowing of the pipes, which can lead to leaks or damage.
International Pipe – Your Go-To Steel Pipe Fabricator
At International Pipe, we are experts in steel pipe fabrication. We have the adequate knowledge and expertise to design, fabricate and install steel pipes for various industries, including biopharmaceuticals, dairy, food and beverage and more.
We understand that every project is unique, and we work closely with our clients to meet their specific needs.
If you require reliable steel pipe fabricators, contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you with your next project.