Pipingdesigners.com Bookstore

Piping Reference Books

For those individuals who are new to the piping profession and want sources to expand their knowledge. There are a lot of books that address the subject of piping. Some books address HVAC and other building systems piping. Some address fire protection piping. There are still others that address hygienic piping. 

Finally, there are the books that address process plant piping. Process plants (in this context) are refineries, chemical plants, power plants, waste treatment plants, and others. The books listed here are piping books for process plants and are just a few of the total that may be available.

If there are any books that you would recommend, please let me know and I will add to the list.

(By buying your books through these Amazon links, you are helping towards the running of pipingdesigners.com)

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We have light at the end of the tunnel.

You may have noticed significant change to pipingdesigners.com over the past few week. Our previous Content Management System (CMS) for the site was becoming overbearing and required a lot of maintenance, just to stand still, so we took the decision to move to a more robust platform.

Everything now appears to be working again:

• All articles and blog posts have been reinstated
• The Forum is up and running again
• The Jobs Board has been replaced.

Please bear with us on the jobs board, as most of the previous data could not be carried across from the previous system, so we need to build up our employer / agent base again.

Take a look … try to login – if you can’t remember your password, you can request a new one. The Login will become very effective going forward, as it will link you to Forum, Job application and the more social aspect of the site that is building now.

Lastly, if you come across any broken links, or data missing, drop me an email with the affected page, and we will get it rectified.

The post Site Updates appeared first on pipingdesigners.com.

You may have noticed a bit of upheaval on pipingdesigners lately.

We are currently in the course of migrating to a different platform, as the previous system was getting too difficult to handle in it’s previous guise.

Please bear with us while this happens … as it will take a while to get all functionality transferred.

The post We are moving things around appeared first on pipingdesigners.com.

Piping Terms Glossary

This list is intended to include most commonly used abbreviations and acronym found in Piping Engineering and Design work.
It has been compiled and prepared to aid both the newcomer and others with a convenient list for mutual use and understanding.

If you have any other abbreviations or acronyms you want to add or feel should be added, please email info@pipingdesigners.com/wp/.

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

A

A                      Absolute – (See ABS)

A                      Air – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

A                      Analog signal – This is normally the indication of the existence of and type signal from some instrument in the plant back to the control room panel

A                      Inlet Nozzle – See Note #1

A                      Pipe Anchors – This is a fixed anchor restricting the pipe movement at a specific support from moving in any (horizontal of vertical) direction.

A/G                  Above Ground – The most common use for this abbreviation is on a P&ID to indicate that portion of a line that is to be or will be above ground.

ABS                Absolute – Unit of measure.  This term is normally used along with another qualifier as in Absolute Pressure.

AC                   Air Conditioner – Equipment designation

AC                   Air to Close – This is normally found on a P&ID at a control valve and indicates that the control valve is a “spring to open and therefore needs air to close.

AC                   Combustion –

ADAPT.          Adaptive control mode –

AFC                Approved For Construction – This is a status indicator for engineering documents such as Flow Diagrams, Specifications, Drawings, etc.  This indication (note) is normally stamped on a document in red so that it is very visible. The “Approved” part of the note normally means that the Client has done the Approving.

AFD                Approved For Design – This is also a status indicator.  But in this case the document is normally an early schematic drawing such as a P&ID.  The “Approval” is still by the Client.

AG                   Above Ground

AGA                American Gas Association

AISC               American Institute of Steel Construction

AISI                 American Iron and Steel Institute

ANSI               American National Standards Institute

AO                   Air to Open – This is normally found on a P&ID at a control valve and indicates that the control valve is a “spring to close and therefore need air to open.

AP                   Plant Air – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

API                  American Petroleum Institute

AS                   Air Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

AS                   Sprinkler system

ASA                 American Standard Association –

ASME             American Society of Mechanical Engineers –

ASTM              American Society for Testing and Materials –

ATM                Atmosphere

AVG.               Average

AWS               American Welding Society –

AWWA            American Waterworks Association –  

B

B                     Outlet Nozzle – See Note #1

BA                   Base Anchor – This is a type of support often used under piping low to grade or floor surface.  It is rigidly connects the piping to the paving or floor surface.

BBE                Beveled Both Ends – This is an end prep qualifier for piping fittings such as reducers and swedges. 

BBL                Barrel – This is most commonly used when discussing the plant capacity (100,000 Bpd) or the capacity of a tank.  It normally refers to a “55 Gallon Barrel” but one should remember that a barrel actually holds only 42 US gallons.

BBP                Bottom of base plate – The Base Plate in this case is the bottom ring plate of a vertical vessel support or the bottom plate of a saddle support of a piece of horizontal equipment.

BC                  Bolt Circle – This might be for a flange, a Vertical vessel support or for a Manhole.

BD                  Blow down – – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

BF                   Blind / Blank Flange

BFW               Boiler Feed Water – This is the cleaned, treated, preheated high pressure water that is pumped into a Boiler to make steam.

BG                  Base Guides – This is a type of support under low piping that is designed to allow the pipe to move back and forth in a specific direction.

BL                   Battery limit – This is the invisible boundary around specific portion of a process plant (i.e.: The Crude Unit Battery Limits)

BLE                Beveled Large End – This is an end prep qualifier for piping fittings such as reducers and swedges.

BLK                Black

BLVD              Boulevard – As in a type of street

BVLD              Beveled – This would normally refer to the end preparation for pipe and fittings. 

BOF                Bottom of Face of Flange – This would be used as a reference point clarification when used with an elevation (i.e.: BOF Elev. 109’ – 0”) for a flange on a vertical line.

BOM               Bill of Material – This term can have two meanings.  First there is the BOM that is included as a part of an individual document such as a piping isometric.  The second is the summary of the material from all documents or isometrics.

BOP                Bottom of Pipe – This refers to the bottom of a pipe when lying in the horizontal position.

BS                   British Standard

BSE                Beveled Small End – This is an end prep qualifier for piping fittings such as reducers and swedges.

BTM                Bottom

BTU                British thermal unit – Unit of measure

BW                  Butt Weld or Butt Welded – Butt welding means that the end of the pipe, fitting and/or flange are beveled to a specific contour as defined by the Code (per different wall thicknesses) then welded together.

C

C                     Centigrade or Celsius – Unit of measure

C                     Clean Drain – This is a system qualifier that would appear on P&ID’s, Underground and other Drawings to designate the Clean Drain system.

C                     Condensate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

C                     Condensate Nozzle – See Note #1

C                     Cradles – The term Cradle, when used on piping drawings normally refers to a curved section of metal plate (approx 120 degrees) and about 24” (610mm) long.  This metal (normally steel) is fitted on the underside of an insulated line (outside the insulation) at each pipe support so that the weight of the line at the support does not crush the insulation.

C                     Patchboard or matrix board connection –

CC                  Corrosion Coupon – This is a piece of metal that is welded to a holder of some type and placed inside the process fluid.  From time to time the thickness of this is removed and measured to determine the amount of corrosion taking place in the system itself.

C-C                 Centre to Centre – Refers to the type of dimension (i.e.: Center to Center of two pipes)

CDO               Certified Dimension Outline – This refers to a vendor drawing such as an Exchanger, a Pump or any other purchased equipment which has been reviewed by your company, your requirements for modifications have accepted and incorporated by the Vendor and they have signed (Certified) that they will build and deliver what is shown on “this” drawing.

CENT             Centigrade – Unit of measure

CFM                Cubic Feet per Minute

CHU               Centigrade Heat Unit

CI                    Cast Iron –

cL                    Centerline – The centerline is the primary locating reference point used for the location of all objects such as Pipes Tanks, Vessels, Pumps, Structural Pipe Supports, Structures, Roads, etc. in Process Plant engineering and design.

CM                  Centimeter –

CO                  Chain Operated – This will apply to an operating valve that could not be located with-in reach and has been fitted with a device that used a chain from below to open or close.

CO                  Clean Out – This is commonly used on underground drawings to indicate the location of clean-out points for buried systems.

COP               Critical Operating Parameters –

Cr                    Chromium – A metal found in some alloy pipe

CrMO              Chrome Moly – A material often used in process plants for higher pressure and temperature services.

CS                  Carbon Steel – The most common material currently used in process plants such as Refineries and Power Plants.

CS                  Cold Spring – This is an indication that action has been taken to reduce the effect of stress by an expanding line due to the operating temperature.  Example: A long line will expand 6” (152 mm) at normal operation conditions.  That 6” (152mm) of growth will result in excessive stress on some point of the system.  You determine that you need to reduce the excessive stress.  To do this you calculate what the “true” dimension for the long run should be but you call for the shop (or the Field) to remove one half the expected growth, in this case 3” (76mm) from the “true” dimension.  This is called “Cold Spring” or “Cold Springing” the line.

CSC               Car Seal Closed – This is normally a designation that appears at a valve symbol on a P&ID (placed there by the Process Engineer) to indicate that this valve is to be fitted with a locking device of some sort to prevent inadvertent or unauthorized opening.  This designation shall be placed on all subsequent piping drawings showing that valve and the piping material control group may be required to purchase the device.

CSO               Car Seal Open – Same as CSC but indicated that the valve is to be in the Open position.

CTR                Center – As in the center of a circle

CU                  Cubic

CV                   Control Valve – The term “Control Valve” is commonly used for a wide range of actuator operated valves.  The type of valve body is most often a Globe type but can also be a Ball, Butterfly, Pinch or other type.  The actuator can be Pneumatic, Solenoid, Electric Motor or other type. 

CWP               Construction Work Package – A Construction Work Package is the identification of and all the paperwork including drawings, material lists, Specifications and contracts defining a segment of work for an EPCM process plant project.  (Example: Underground Piping CWP, Aboveground Piping CWP, Insulation CWP, Electrical CWP, etc.)

CWR              Cooling Water Return – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

CYR                Cycle Water Return – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

CYS                Cycle Water Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

D

D                   Derivative control mode – Commonly used with instrumentation

D                   Digital signal – Commonly used with instrumentation

D                   Drain – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

D                   Drain or Draw off Connection – See Note #1

DBM               Design Basics Memoranda

DCS               Distributed Control System – Commonly used with instrumentation

DEG               Degree – Unit of measure

DIA                Diameter –

DIFF               Difference, used in math meaning to Subtract

DIM                Dimension

DIN                Deutsche Industry Norm [German Standard]

DIR                Direct-acting –

DO                 Drawing Office –

dP                  Delta P, Pressure differential

DRG               Drawing [Not Preferred] see DWG

DS                 Dummy Support – A Dummy Support is a stub of pipe 3’ to 7’ long (1 meter to 2 meters long) that is attached to an elbow where a line leaves the pipe way short of the next support.  The stub will extent to reach the next structural pipe support and provide support for the line.

DW                Drywall –

DWG              Drawing – The most commonly used and the more proper abbreviation for the term “Drawing”

E

E                    East – As in a direction.  Often used with Coordinate method of defining location or position of in item of equipment.

E                    Voltage signal – Commonly used with instrumentation or Electrical

ECN               Engineering Change Notice – This is a part of the system used to control and track costs within a “Lump-Sum” contract.  All changes, whether they are Client originated of the result of late design development is identified, given a “DCN” number, written up, reviewed through the project approval process.  If the DCN is accepted then the change is made and the cost is added to (or deducted from) the contract.

ECN               Engineering Charge Number – (Same as DCN)

EDS               Engineering Design Specifications

E-E                End to End – Used to clarify a dimension.

EFW               Electric-Fusion-Welded – Refers to one of the ways that “rolled and welded” pipe is made.

EL                  Elbow – (Not Preferred)

EL                   Elevation –

ELB                Elbowlet – (Not Preferred)

ELL                 Elbow – (Preferred)

EOL                Elbow-let – A special shaped piping fitting that allows for a branch attachment onto an elbow and provides built-in reinforcement for the attachment point.

EOP                End of Pipe – A term used as a part of the dimensional designation when locating the end of a piece of pipe such as a vent to atmosphere.

EA                   Engineer/Architectural – This can mean a type of company or a type of project.  An AE company or project only does some engineering and then only produces conceptual drawings.  They cannot and do not produce detailed engineering drawings or bills of materials because they do not purchase any equipment required to for detailed design. 

EPC                Engineering, Procurement & Construction – This can mean a type of company or a type of project.  An EPC Company or Project means a full service capability of Engineering, Procurement and Construction of the complete process plant.  

EPC&C          Engineering, Procurement, Construction and Commissioning – Indicates type of company or project that is done by one contractor that includes Engineering, Design, Procurement, Construction and Commissioning (also see LSTK)

EPCM             Engineering, Procurement & Construction Management – This can mean a type of company or a type of project.  An EPCM Company or Project means a full service capability of Engineering, Procurement and the construction portion of the project is executed by Sub-Contractors under the Management of the EPCM Contractor.

ERW               Electric-Resistance-Welded – Refers to one of the ways that “rolled and welded” pipe is made.

ES                   Electric Supply –

ESS                Emergency Shutdown System –

ESV                Emergency Shutdown Valve – This is used to identify certain valves that are manually or motor operated that shall be closed in case of a fire, explosion or Terrorist attack.

ET                   Electrically Traced – This indicates a pipe line (or piece of equipment) that shall be provided with heat tracing via electric resistance cable.

ETA                 Estimated Time (of) Arrival – Term used in procurement to indicate when an item will arrive at a destination.

F

F                      Fahrenheit – Unit of measure relating to temperature

F                      Feed Nozzle – See Note #1

(F)                   Furnished – Indicated that the object or item is supplied with something else. 

F&D                Faced and Drilled – Means that the indicated surface has been machined smooth and drilled to accept some other object.

(F&P)              Furnished & Piped – Similar to “Furnished” but is further clarified to indicate that the required piping is also included as “Furnished”.

FAB                 Fabrication – Can be a noun or a verb.  A Fabrication can mean a piping spool that is a “Fabrication”.  Or it can be used to say the pipe spool is in “Fabrication”.

FAHR             Fahrenheit – Unit of measure

FBW               Furnace-Butt-Welded – Refers to one of the ways that “rolled and welded” pipe is made.

FC                   Fail Closed – This means that in case of power failure of loss of instrument air the valve (or other object) will default to a closed and safe position.

FCN                Field Charge Number – A system for numeric indexing, identification and control of changes originating from the field.

FD                   Flex-Disc Valve – Normally relates to a type of Gate valve that has a special design for the disc that is intended to insure a tight closure.

FD&SF           Faced, Drilled and Spot-Faced –

FE                   Flanged End – Meaning that an object has flanged connections. 

FEED             Front End Engineering & Design – The FEED part of a project would be characterized as the first twenty percent (20%) to thirty percent (30%) of the engineering of a project.  The FEED Contractor may have been awarded all or a part of the project.  They are now working with the Client (and Licensors if applicable) to prepare the front end requirements for the project. The heaviest work load during this FEED part will be in the Process Engineering group.  However, there are some Piping activities that start at this time (Also see Pre-FEED)

FF                   Face to Face – As in Face-to-Face dimension

FF                   Flange Face [dimensioning] –

FF                   Flat Face (d)

FF                   Full Face [of gasket]

FFW                Final Fit Weld – Refers to a piping weld that is to be made in the field (Point of installation) as opposed to being made in a pipe fabrication shop.  This weld can only be pipe-to-pipe or pipe-to-fitting.  The pipe component is to be fabricated long with (6” to 9”) of extra length for final field fit-up.  This weld (for this line) is to be made only after all other Field Welds” have been completed.

FG                   Fuel Gas – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

FI                     Fail Indeterminate – This means that in case of power failure of loss of instrument air the valve (or other object) will default in place or current position.

FIV                  Fire Isolation Valve – (See ESV)

FL                   Fail Locked – (See FI)

FLG                Flange

FLGD             Flanged End

FMU                Fitting Make Up – This means that two or more commonly manufactured piping fittings or flanges are welded together without any pipe between the items.

FO                   Fail Open – This means that in case of power failure of loss of instrument air the valve (or other object) will default to an open and safe position.

FOB                Flat on Bottom – A term most commonly used with eccentric reducers and other non-concentric objects.

FOB                Free on Board – A legal term commonly used in contracts and or procurement

FOB                Freight on Board – A legal term commonly used in contracts and or procurement

FOT                Flat on Top – A term most commonly used with eccentric reducers or other non-concentric objects.

FP                   Full Port Valve – This term often used with Ball Valves means that the “Port” or opening in the ball is the same size as the adjoining pipe inside diameter.

FPT                 Female Pipe Thread

FRP                [Glass] Fiber Reinforced Pipe

FS                   Base Supports – Indicates a type of secondary support that is normally used under one side of a Control Valve Manifold.

FS                   Far Side

FS                   Field Supports – Indicates any of a number of secondary type pipe supports.

FS                   Forged Steel – 

FTG                Fitting – This is a universal term that applies to many trades and trade material (piping, electrical, etc.).  For piping it includes elbows, TEEs and O-Lets. 

FV                   Full Vacuum

FW                  Field Weld – Refers to a weld (normally in piping) that is to be made in the field (Point of installation) as opposed to being made in a pipe fabrication shop. This weld can be pipe-to-pipe, pipe-to-fitting or fitting-to-fitting.  The pipe and fitting components on both sides of this weld are dimensionally correct and no trimming is to be done without the approval of the Design Office. 

FW                  Fire Water – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

G

G                     Gas – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

G                     Glycol – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

G                     Gram – Unit of measure

G                     Level Gauge or Gauge Glass –

G                     Pipe Guides –

GAL                Gallon – Unit of measure

GALV              Galvanized – Rust resistant plating added to metal objects

GO                  Gear Operated – Used in conjunction with a valve description.

GPH               Gallon per Hour – Unit of measure

GPM               Gallon per Minute – Unit of measure

GR                  Grade – Is commonly used for both Paved or Unpaved surfaces of a process plant

GS                  Gas Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

GT                   Glycol Traced – Commonly used to define a type of heat tracing

GV                   Gauge Valve – A valve used for isolation with various types of instruments

H

H                     Hand hole – See  Note #1

H                     Horizontal – A direction or physical attitude

H                     Hot condensate drain – See Note #1

H                     Hour – Commonly used with Instruments or units of measure

H                     Hydraulic signal – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

H. PT.             High Point – (see HP)

HDR               Header – May be used when defining a main supply pipe for a utility, example: HP Steam Header.  Or it can be used to define a physical feature associated with a piping configuration, example: The Weld-O-Let was used to add a branch to the Header.

HEX                Hexagonal – A shape with six sides

Hg                   Mercury – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

HH                  Hand hole – See Note #1

HOA                Hand / Off / Auto – Common electrical terminology for Pump controls

HP                  High Point – Used to define the reference for the highest point of the concrete paving or other service material.  (Also see HPP)

HP                  High Pressure –

HP                  Horse Power –

HPC               High Pressure Condensate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

HPP                High Point of (finished) Pavement – (See HP)

HPS                High Pressure Steam – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

HPT                Hose-Pipe Thread –

HR                  Hanger Rods – A device that is intended to provide support from above for an object such as a pipe

HR                  Hour – Unit of measure

HS                  Hose Station – (See US)

HS                  Hydraulic Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

HTR                Heater – Relates to a type of equipment found on a project

HVAC             Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning – Can indicate the Profession, the Equipment or the Work.

I

I                       Current (electrical) signal

I                       Inorganic waste – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

I                       Interlock

IA                     Instrument Air – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

IAS                  Instrument Air Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

ID                    Inside Diameter – common usage terminology

ID                    Internal Diameter – not common usage terminology

IE                    Invert Elevation – (See Inv. El.)

IFA                 Issued For Approval – This is an indication of “Status” for an engineering or design document issued as a part of a Process Plant Project.  This normally means issued to the Client for the required Approval.

IFB                 Issued For Bid – This is an indication of “Status” for an engineering or design document issued as a part of a Process Plant Project.  This normally means a document that is intended for a Contractor or Sub-Contractor to use to prepare his (her) bid.

IFC                 Issued For Construction – This is an indication of “Status” for an engineering or design document issued as a part of a Process Plant Project.  This normally means that the data shown on the document is complete and approved for fabrication and or construction.

IFD                 Issued For Design

IFH                 Issued For Hazop

IFI                  Issued For Information / Issued for Implementation

IFR                 Issued For Review

IMP                 Imperial – This normally applies to units of measure such as feet and inches or opposite of metric.

INS                 Insulation – Applies to the non-metallic coverings applied to piping systems or equipment for the conservation or retention of heat or cold.

INST               Instrumentation –

Inv. El.            Invert Elevation – This is the bottom point of the inside diameter of a Drain system pipe.  It is the point used to set and insure the correct slope of the pipe for drainage.

IPS                  Iron Pipe Size –

IRI                   Industrial Risk Insurers –

IS                    Inside Screw [of valve stem] – Refers to a type of Valve design.

IS&Y               Inside Screw and Yoke – Refers to a type of Valve design.

ISBL               Inside Battery Limits (or Onsite) – Refers to any single or collection of inter-related and inter-connected process units that performs an integrated process function. Typically any Onsite Unit could be made to function independently of another Onsite Unit.

ISO                 Isometric drawing – In piping this term refers to a semi-3 dimensional drawing representation of a pipe line or part of a pipe line.  The Isometric should contain ALL the graphics, dimensions, identification and technical data necessary to purchase material, fabricate, test and install the displayed piping.

J

J                      Pump out Nozzle – See Note #1

K

K                     Carbonate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

K                     Kilo, times one thousand, x 1000

KG                  Kilo Gram

L

L                      Level Instrument Nozzle – See Note #1

L                      Liquid – Used as a qualifier for Process (and other) information.  Example: HLL = High Liquid Level)

**LL                Liquid Level (** Denotes suffix (es), for high, low, high high, low low, etc.) i.e. LLLL – Low Low Liquid Level

L.PT.               Low Point – Often used in defining the other critical elevation point (see HP) for paving.

LA                   Level Alarm – Defines a type of instrument

LB, Lb            Pound weight – Unit of measure

LC                   Level Controller – Defines a type of instrument

LC                   Lock Closed – Commonly used with valves that must remain closed unless special authority is granted otherwise.

LG                   Level Gauge – Defines a type of instrument

LI                     Level Indicator – Defines a type of instrument

LIC                  Level Indicating Controller – Defines a type of instrument

LO                   Lock Open – Commonly used with valves that must remain open unless special authority is granted otherwise.

LOL                Low Oxygen Level

LP                   Low Point – (See L.PT.)

LP                   Low Pressure – Commonly used to define a condition or quality of a commodity. Example: LP Alarm)

LPC                Low Pressure Condensate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

LPS                Low Pressure Steam – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

LR                   Long Radius [Of Elbow] – LR is equal to 1.5 times the nominal diameter

LS                   Level Switch – Defines a type of instrument

LSTK              Lump Sum Turn Key – Indicates the type of company or a project that is done by one contractor that includes Engineering, Design, Procurement, Construction and Commissioning (also see EPC&C)

LT                   Level Transmitter – Defines a type of instrument

LT                   Light-wall [Of Pipe] –

M

M                     Manhole – See Note #1

M                     Mega, times one million, x 1 000 000 – Unit of measure

M                     Meter – Unit of measure

M                     Motor actuator

M                     Motorized – Used to indicate that a Valve is “Motorized (Has a motor operator).

M/C                 Machine

MACH             Machined

MATL              Material

MAWP            Maximum Allowable Working Pressure – Most often used with vessels or piping systems

MAX                Maximum

MAX                Maximum control mode

MCC               Motor Control Center – Defines a building with a collection of electrical equipment

MFR                Manufacturer

MI                    Malleable Iron

MIN                 Minimum

MIN                 Minimum control mode

MIN                 Minute [Of time]

mm                 Millimeter

Mo                   Molybdenum – An element found in pipe steel.

MOS               Maintenance Override Switch

MP                  Medium Pressure

MPC               Medium Pressure Condensate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

MPS                Medium Pressure Steam – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

MPT                Male Pipe Thread

MS                  Mild Steel

MSF                Mill Scale Free – Means that the pipe (or other item) has been or must be wire brushed or sand blasted.

MSS                Manufacturers’ Standardization Society – Applies to the Valve and Fittings Industry

MT                   Magnetic Particle Inspection – (See NDE)

MTO                Material Take Off – Describes both the act of doing the task and the product of the task.

MW                 Manway – See  Note #1

N

N                     Nitrogen – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

N                     North – This can be True North, Plant North, Platform North or Magnetic North.

N                     North – As in a direction.  Often used with Coordinate method of defining location or position of in item of equipment.

N                     Reboiler Connection – See  Note #1

NC                  Normally Closed – This is used to designate the normal setting of a valve.

NDE               Non-Destructive Examination – This refers to a grouping of 5 methods used to indicate the quality of a weld on vessels or piping.  These are VT, RT, MT, PT, and UT (See: http://www.ndt.net/article/0698/hayes/hayes.htm)

NEMA             National Electrical Manufacturers’ Association

NFPA              National Fire Protection Association

NG                  Natural Gas – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

Ni                    Nickel

NIC                 Not in Contact

NIPP               Swaged Nipple

NLL                Normal Liquid Level

NNF                Normally No Flow

NO                  Normally Open

NPS                Nominal Pipe Size

NPSC             Straight pipe thread in pipe couplings

NPSF             Dryseal straight pipe thread (lubricant optional)

NPSH             Net positive suction head

NPSH             Net Positive Suction Head

NPSH             Straight pipe thread for hose couplings and nipples

NPSI               Dryseal internal straight pipe thread

NPSL             Straight pipe thread for locknut and locknut pipe thread

NPSM             Straight pipe threads for mechanical joints

NPT                National Pipe Thread

NPT                Taper Pipe Thread

NPTF              Dryseal taper pipe thread (lubricant optional)

NRS               Near Side

NS                  Nitrogen Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

NV                   Needle Valve

O

O                     Electromagnetic or sonic signal

O                     Oil – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

O                     Organic Waste Drain

OD                  Outside Diameter

Offsite            (See OSBL)

OG                  Oxygen – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

Onsite            (See ISBL)

OP                  Operating Valve

OPT                Optimizing control mode

OS                  Outside Screw [Valve stem]

OS&Y             Outside Screw and Yoke [Valve stem]

OSBL             Outside Battery Limits (Offsite) — In a process plant (Refinery, Chemical, Petrochemical, Power, etc.), any supporting facility that is not a direct part of the primary or secondary process reaction train or utility block.

OSHA             Operation Safety and Health Act (USA)

OVHD             Overhead – This is used to define a specific piece of equipment (i.e.: OVHD Condenser) a specific nozzle on a vessel (i.e.: OVHD Nozzle) of the product in the line (i.e.: Crude OVHD)

OWD              Oily Water Drain – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

OX                   Oxide – A chemical element

P

P                     All process lines

P                     Pneumatic signal

P                     Pressure Connection – See  Note #1

P                     Proportional control mode

P                     Purge or flushing device

P&ID               Piping and Instrument Diagram – The primary document produced by the Process Engineer to define in detail what is required for any process plant.

PA                   Plant Air Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

PBE                Plain Both Ends [Swage, etc.]

PC                  Pressure Controller

PC                  Pumped Condensate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

PCV                Pressure Control Valve

PE                   Plain End [Pipe, etc.]

PFD                Process Flow Diagram – Indicated a preliminary schematic drawing produced by the Process Engineer to define the simplified process concept.  It is the precursor to the P&ID.

PFI                  Pipe Fabrication Institute

PG                  Pilot Gas – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

PI                    Pressure Indicator – A direct reading gage or indicator.

PIV                  Post Indicator Valve – Common type valve used for shut-off of underground water lines to a fire hydrant or fire Monitor.

PLC                Programmable Logic Controller

PO                  Pump Out – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

POE                Plain One End [Nipple, etc.]

POS                Point of Support

PR                  Pressure Regulator

Pre-FEED      A Pre-FEED project is one where someone is conceptually defining a proposed new project.  Many Clients will perform the Pre-FEED part of a project with their own staff. Clients may also obtain the services of an engineering company to develop the Pre-FEED project package.  The objective of contracting out the Pre-FEED package is three-fold.  First, the Client may need the expertise of the engineering company to objectively look at the project goals and determine if it feasible.  Second, the Client wants a package that they can issue to other selected Contractors for bidding purposes.  Third, the Client will want the Pre-FEED Contractor to prepare a realistic estimate of total-installed-cost (TIC) for their internal requisition for funding and to evaluate the other bids.  (Also see FEED)

PRV                Pressure Reducing Valve – This is a valve functional description not a specific valve manufacturer of specific valve type.

PRV                Pressure Relief Valve – This is a valve functional description not a specific valve manufacturer of specific valve type.  Lots of companies make valves that are designed to open when the pressure inside a vessel or system goes above a specific set pressure.  (Also see PSV)

PS                   Pipe Support – This is a general term and can mean any type of primary or secondary devices used to hold up pipe.

PS                   Pre-Spring – This is the technique of adding a small amount to the dimension of an actual length of pipe required to reach from point “A” to point “B”.  This practice is to compensate fro systems in cryogenic service where the pipe would shrink due to the negative coefficient of expansion.

PS                   Process Sewer – Used to define the commodity or service in a Line Number

PSI                  Pound per Square Inch – Defines a unit of measure related to pressure.

PSIA               Pound per Square Inch Absolute – Defines a unit of measure related to pressure.

PSIG               Pound per Square Inch Gage – Defines a unit of measure related to pressure.

PSV                Pressure Safety Valve – (also see PRV)

PT                   Pressure Tap – Sometimes used to define the future purpose of a valved and plugged connection. 

PT                   (Liquid) Penetrate Inspection – (See NDE)   

PU                  Pick-Ups – Used to define a type of secondary pipe support.  This method (short length of Angle Iron and “U” Bolts) uses a larger size pipe to provide support for a smaller pipe line.

Pup                 A “Pup” piece is a short length of pipe required between two fittings, a fitting and a flange or between two flanges to make-up a required dimensional distance.

PW                  Potable Water – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

PWHT            Post Weld Heat Treated – This is the action of applying heat to piping to relieve stress built up in the material due to the welding during fabrication. 

R

R                     Automatic-reset control mode – Used in the electrical and controls systems. 

R                     Radius –

R                     Reflux Nozzle – See  Note #1

R                     Reset – Used in the electrical and controls systems.

R                     Reset of fail-locked device – Used in the electrical and controls systems.

R                     Resistance (signal) – Used in the electrical and controls systems.

R/L                  Random Length – Often used in the purchase of pipe.  Single Random Length = 20 feet (+/-) 7meters (+/-).  Double Random Length = 40 feet (+/-) 14 meters (+/-)

RED               Reducer – Used in Concentric Reducer (Conc Red) or Eccentric Reducer (Ecc Red)

RED               Reducing –

REF                Reference –

REQ               Requisition – Term used in Procurement activities or the actual document. 

REQ               Required –

REV                Reverse-acting –

RF                   Raised Face – A type of flange face.

RFI                  Request for Information – Term used in Procurement activities or the actual document.

RFP                Request for Purchase – Term used in Procurement activities or the actual document.

RFQ                Request for Quote – Term used in Procurement activities or the actual document.

RJ                   Ring Joint – (see RJT) –

RPM               Revolutions per Minute –

RS                  Rising Stem [Of valve] –

RT                   Reducing Tee –

RT                   Radiographic Inspection – (See NDE)

RTD                Resistance (-type) temperature detector –

RTJ                 Ring Type Joint – A type of flange facing/gasket

RW                 Raw Water – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

S

S                     Pipe Shoes – A device used under Hot Insulated pipes to raise the pipe up off the primary pipe support level thus protects the insulation.

S                     Solenoid actuator –

S                     South – As in a direction.  Often used with Coordinate method of defining location or position of in item of equipment.

S                     Steam or Sample Connection – See  Note #1

S                     Storm Water Drain – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

S.G.                Specific Gravity –

SAE                Society of Automotive Engineers –

SC                  Sample Connection –

SC                  Steam Condensate – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

SCH               Schedule [Of pipe] – Relates to the wall thickness of pipe

SCRD            Screwed – Method of joining some types of pipe, fittings and valves.

SCV                Sample Point Valve –

SCV/T             Sample Point Valve with Thief –

SD                  Shut Down –

SECT             Section – A “View” in mechanical drafting (similar to Elevation used in Architectural drafting)

SF                   Spot-Faced – The machining-off the back side of an object (i.e.: a flange) to provide a true flat surface for the bolt head or nut. 

Si                    Silicon –

SKT                Socket – Method of joining some types of pipe, fittings and valves.

SMLS             Seamless – A type of pipe

SO                  Slip-On – A type of flange

SO                  Steam Out – See  Note #1

SOL                Sock-o-let – A device used to make an integral reinforced branch for socket-weld (size) pipe

SP                   Sample Point –

SP                   Set Point –

SP                   Standard Practice [MSS term] –

SP                   Steam Pressure –

Spec               Specification – A narrative description for the requirements of almost anything

Spool          In piping a “Spool” is a contiguous fabricated part if an isometric or a pipe line.
Example: a spool can be small such as a flange, an elbow and another flange.  Or it can be large such as a contiguous fabricated configuration not to exceed the designated shipping size set for the project.

SQ                  Square –

SQ.RT            Square Root –

SR                  Short Radius [Of Elbow] –

SS                   Sanitary Sewer – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

SS                   Spring Supports –

SS                   Stainless Steel –

SS                   Steam Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

SSO                Intermittent hot process drain – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

SST                Stainless Steel –

SSV                Soft Seat Valve –

ST                   Steam Traced –

ST                   Steam Tracing –

ST                   Steam Trap –

ST                   Support Trunnions –

STD                Standard –

STM                Steam – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

STR                Straight –

STS                Storm Sewer – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

SW                  Socket Welding –

SWG               Swage –

SWG               Swaged Nipple –

SWP               Standard Working Pressure –

SWP               Steam Working Pressure –

T

T                      Temperature –

T                      Temperature Connection – See  Note #1

T                      Threaded –

T                      Trap –

T&C                Threaded and Coupled [Pipe] – Pipe purchased from the supplier with both ends threaded and a coupling installed on one end (only) of each length.

T/F.F               Tangent to Face of Flange –

T/T                  Tangent to Tangent – Used define the distance of the straight side of a vessel.

TB                   Traced Valve Body – Term used where Heat Tracing is used for process lines or equipment. 

TBB                Traced Body & Bonnet – Term used where Heat Tracing is used for process lines or equipment.

TBE                Thread Both Ends – Used with Swedge Nipples

TC                   Temperature Controller –

TC                   Test Connection –

TE                   Threaded End –

TEF                 Teflon –

TEMA              Tubular Exchanger Manufacturers’ Association –

TGT                Tangent –

TI                     Temperature Indicator – Indicates a direct reading gage or indicator.

TL                   Tangent Line – Indicates the point on a cylindrical vessel where the straight side intersects the curvature of the knuckle radius of the head.

TLE                 Thread Large End – Used with Swedge Nipples 

TOC                Top of Concrete –

TOE                Threaded One End [Nipple or Swege] –

TOL                Thread-o-let – A device used to make an integral reinforced branch for Threaded (size) pipe

TOP                Top of Pipe –

TOS                Top of Steel –

TOS                Top of Support –

TPI                  Threads per Inch –

TS                   Twin Seal – A type of Gate Valve.

TSE                Thread Small End – Used with Swedge Nipples

TSE                Threaded Small End – Used with Swedge Nipples

TYP.                Typical –

U

U/G                 Underground – A type of drawing or a buried piping system

UA                   Utility Air – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

UDD               Utility Distribution Diagram – A Plot Plan oriented drawing showing the main distribution headers with all the branches in the proper sequence.

UFD                Utility Flow Diagram – Similar to a (process) P&ID but used for the drawing use to define the generation of a plant utility service (Steam, Plant Air, Cooling Water, etc.).

UG                  Underground – (See U/G)

UNC               Unified Coarse [Bolt thread] –

UNF                Unified Fine [Bolt thread] –

UNO               Unless Noted Otherwise –

UNS               Unified Selected [Bolt thread] –

UON               Unless Otherwise Noted –

US                  Utility Station – A collection of multiple services (Steam, Plant Air, Plant Water, Nitrogen, etc.) arranged in locations at grade or on platforms for use by maintenance and clean-up.

UT                   Ultrasonic Inspection – (See NDE)

V

V                      Valve –

V                      Vanadium – An element found in some piping materials

V                      Vapor Outlet or Vent Connection – See  Note #1

V                      Vent – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

V                      Vertical –

VB                   Vortex Breaker – A device fabricated and installed inside a vessel as a part of the pump suction nozzle to prevent the formation of a Vortex.

Vert                 Vertical –

VT                   Visual Inspection – (See NDE)

W

W                    Relief Valve Nozzle – See  Note #1

W                    Water – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

W                    West – As in the direction.  Often used with Coordinate method of defining location or position of in item of equipment.

W/                   With –

WC                 Water Column – A piping configuration that allows for the attachment of multiple level and pressure instruments on a Tank or Vessel.

WE                  Welded End – Often used with a valve to indicate the type of end connections.

WGT               Weight –

WLD               Weld(ed) –

WN                 Welding Neck – Indicated the type of Flange

WOG              Water, Oil and Gas –

WOL               Weld-o-let – A self reinforced branch fitting for butt weld continuation

WP                  Working Point – Used on drawings with sloping pipe lines to indicate the point where key information is given (Locating coordinates and elevations).

WP                  Working Pressure –

WS                  Water Supply – Used to define the commodity in a Line Number

WT                  Weight –

X

x                      Multiply –

X                      Unclassified actuator – Used with instruments

XH                   Extra-Heavy – Refers to the Wall Schedule of pipe

XS                   Extra-Strong – (See XH)

XXH                Double Extra Heavy – Refers to the Wall Schedule of pipe

XXS                 Double-Extra-Strong – (See XXH)

Notes:

#1                   This Abbreviation is intended to indicate the specific purpose or function for a nozzle on a vessel.  However, the use of this specific letter for this specific purpose or function is not universal throughout the engineering community.  

The post Section – 1A: Piping Terms Glossary appeared first on pipingdesigners.com.

High purity terms and definitions Terms and DefinitionsASME/BPE-1997, GR-10 TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

Annealing: a treatment process for steel for the purpose of reducing hardness, improving machinability, facilitating cold working or producing a desired mechanical physical or other property.

Aseptic: free of pathogenic (causing or capable of causing disease) microorganisms.

Aseptic processing: operating in a manner that prevents contamination of the process.

Automatic welding: welding with equipment that performs the welding operation without adjustment of the controls by a welding operator. The equipment may or may not perform the loading and unloading of the work (see machine welding).

Bioprocessing: the creation of a product utilizing living organisms.

Bioprocessing equipment: equipment, systems or facilities used in the creation of products utilizing living organisms.

Cavitation: a condition of liquid flow where, after vaporization of the liquid, the subsequent collapse of vapor bubbles can produce surface damage.

Certification: documented testimony by qualified authorities that a system qualification, calibration, validation or revalidation has been performed appropriately, and that the results are acceptable.

cGMPs: current Good Manufacturing Practices. Current design and operating practices developed by the pharmaceutical industry to meet FDA requirements as published in the Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1, Title 21, Parts 210 and 211.

Clean: free of dirt, residues, detergents or any contaminants that may affect or adulterate the product or process.

Clean-in-Place (CIP): internally cleaning a piece of equipment without relocation or disassembly. The equipment is cleaned, but not necessarily sterilized. The cleaning is normally done by acid, caustic or a combination of both, with Water-For-Injection (WFI) rinse.

Clean steam: steam free from boiler additives that may be purified, filtered or separated. Usually used for incidental heating in pharmaceutical applications.

Cloudiness: the appearance of a milky white hue across some portion of a surface resulting from the electropolish process.

Dead leg: an area of entrapment in a vessel or piping run that could lead to contamination of the product.

Demarcation: a localized area that is dissimilar to the surrounding areas with a defined boundary after electropolishing.

Fermentation: the biochemical synthesis of organic compounds by microorganisms or cultivated cells.

Fermentor (fermenter): a vessel for carrying out fermentation.

Full penetration: a weld joint is said to be fully penetrated when the depth of the weld extends from its face into the weld joint so that the joint is fully fused. For a tube-to-tube weld, no unfused portions of the weld joint shall be visible on the inside diameter of a fully penetrated weld.

GMP facility: a facility designed, constructed and operated in accordance with cGMP guidelines established by the FDA.

Heat number: an alphanumeric identification of a stated tonnage of metal obtained from a continuous melting in a furnace.

Hold-up volume: the volume of liquid remaining in a vessel or piping system after it has been allowed to drain.

Hydrotest: a pressure test of piping, pressure vessels or pressure-containing parts, usually performed by pressurizing the internal volume with water at a pressure determined by the applicable code.

Hygienic: of or pertaining to equipment and piping systems that by design, materials of construction and operation provided for the maintenance of cleanliness so that products produced by these systems will not adversely affect human or animal health.

Hygienic clamp joint: a tube outside diameter union consisting of two neutered ferrules having flat faces with a concentric groove and mating gasket that is secured with a clamp, providing a nonprotruding, recessless product contact surface.

Liquid penetrant indication: refer to ASME BPVC, Section V, Article 6, para. T-600, for testing an anomaly or an indication.

Machine welding: welding with equipment that performs the welding operation under the constant observation and control of a welding operator. The equipment may or may not perform the loading and unloading of the works (see automatic welding).

Micron or micrometer (mm): one-millionth of a meter.

Orange peel: an appearance of a pebbly surface.

Passivation: a final treatment/cleaning process used to remove free iron or other anodic contaminants from the surfaces of corrosion-resistant steel parts such that uniform formation of a passive layer is obtained.

Passive layer: a passive oxidized film that forms naturally on the stainless steel surface when exposed to air or similar oxidizing environment protecting the underlying base metal from corrosion.

Pipe: pipe size is determined by diameter and schedule. For bioprocessing equipment, pipe does not include tube.

Pitch: to cause to be set at a particular angle or slope. Degree of slope or elevation.

Porosity: cavity-type discontinuities formed by gas entrapment during solidification.

Pure steam: steam that is produced by a steam generator which, when condensed, meets requirements for Water-For-Injection (WFI).

Pyrogen: a fever-producing substance.

Ra: log of the arithmetic mean of the surface profile. Usually expressed in min as related to roughness (see ASME B46.1).

Self-draining: the elimination of all fluid from the system due to the force of gravity alone.

Square cut: a tube end cut perpendicular to the tangent plane.

Steam-in-Place (SIP): the use of steam to sanitize or sterilize a piece of equipment without the use of an autoclave.

Sterile: free from living organisms.

Surface inclusion: particles of foreign material in a metallic matrix. The particles are usually compounds such as oxides, sulfides or silicates, but may be a substance foreign to and essentially insoluble in the matrix.

Surface residual: a foreign substance that adheres to a surface by chemical reaction, adhesion, adsorption, or ionic bonding. For example, corrosion, rouging and staining.

Tube: tube is sized by its nominal outside diameter. For bioprocessing equipment, tube does not include pipe.

The post Section – 1B: High purity terms and definitions appeared first on pipingdesigners.com.

This article is intended to answer some of the questions that come up about the subject of Line Numbers and Line Lists for a typical process plant project.

Some of the questions that come up about Line Numbering include: What is it? Why is it? What does it mean? Who does it? Another question is that is often asked “is there a common pipe line numbering system? Do engineering companies and clients have different line numbering systems? Another question is: Does ASME B31.3 or CSA (Canadian STDs), have a standard for line numbering?

These are all good questions and it is important for every piper to know the answers to each one. I could be wrong but I think it is safe to say there is no “common pipe line numbering system” in use in the process plant engineering and design world. There are just too many companies and people and clients and project types to be able to achieve such commonality. I don’t remember seeing anything in ASME B31.3 (or any other Code), but then again it is not the purpose of the B31 Code to dictate a line numbering system.

To properly discuss this subject we need to understand the purpose of the “Line Number.” We also need to acknowledge that some companies use the term “Line Designation.” Whether your company uses the term “Line number” or the term “Line designation” the purpose is still the same. It is the name for the line, it is for positive identification. It is the same as for you your name is the way to positively identify you. The pipe line identification is necessary through out the project and is used for many purposes by many different people or groups. The line numbering is an important aspect of the piping on a project and should only be created and controlled by the piping group for the project, specifically by the piping material engineer for that project.

As with any of the other “gray hair” pipers, I too have seen many different line numbering systems in my working past. Of all of them I have determined that while there are some similarities there is no totally common system.

Here are some details that I have been able to determine for myself. There are two basic areas that tend to govern line numbering. These are the line number method and the line number elements.

* Methods – There are two basic line numbering “methods.” The first method is based on the Purpose or Function of the line. The second method is based on the line “Size.”
* Elements – There are many potential line identification elements that may be included in a line numbering system. The elements that are most commonly included in a line numbering scheme are: Plant Location, Line Identity, Line Class (or Line Specification), Size, Insulation Type (when required) and Heat Tracing Type (when required).

Methods

The “purpose or functional” method of line numbering is where the line is best defined as a single line having an origin and a terminus consistent with a purpose or function. An example of this might be a pump suction line. It might come from a Storage Tank, a Tower Bottom or an Accumulator. It travels some distance and then splits and connects to the two pumps designated for that one service or function. This is one line, it serves one purpose or function therefore it has only one line number. Another example would be the pump discharge that leaves both of these pumps and join to form the single pipe line that runs to the next piece of equipment. This line also has one purpose or function therefore it has only one number.

The “line size” method is where the line number changes whenever and wherever the line size changes. When compared to the first (purpose or function) method, the pump suction line might have five line numbers instead of one. The pump discharge might also have five or more depending on what happens at the destination end of the line.

One or the other of these two methods becomes the “Rule” for a company, client or project. As we all know, for every rule you will always be able to find an exception. One exception that is common to both of these “Rules” is the rule of the change of line class (or line specification). The change in line class is most often caused by a change in pressure or material. A line might be the same size from one point to another but includes a pressure control valve that lets the pressure down to a level that allows a lower flange rating and or another material therefore a different line class. There are other line class change initiators but I think you get the idea. Any change in a lines conditions or material causes a mandatory change in the line number no mater which line numbering method is being used.

Elements

The elements of a line number might be arranged and look something like this:

10-1021-CA1A-12”- IH -ST

Where:

10 = the plant Unit or Area (mandatory)

1021 = the numeric line number (mandatory)

CA1A = the line class (mandatory)

12” = the line size (mandatory)

IH = Hot Insulation (only when required) (1)

ST = Steam Tracing (only when required) (2)

(1) Other types of insulation include IC = Cold Insulation, IS = Safety Insulation, IA = Acoustic (or Sound) Insulation, etc.

(2) Other types of tracing include: ET = Electric Tracing, CWT = Chill Water Tracing, TT = Thermon (Hot Oil) Tracing, etc.

* In this case the “10” refers to a physical plant area as defined by the project work breakdown structure document. Other Areas might be 20, 30, 40 or 11, 12, 13, etc.
* The “1021” represents the twenty-first line in this area. All line numbers on this project will be four place numbers starting with 1000 in each area.
* The “CA1A” represents the project piping material line class code for: 300# (C), Carbon Steel (A), 1/32” corrosion allowance (1) and a specific gasket type/material (A).

I have no doubt that there are other items of information that could be or are added in some form or another based on the preference of a specific company of client. My credo is “Keep It Simple.” The manner of arranging the Elements to form a line number is something that is also dictated by the Company and or in some cases the Client. The sequence that is shown above is in the order of information priority that I am used to.

The line numbering activity should only be done when the P&ID’s are well along in the development process. The more complete the P&ID’s are the less hours will be wasted and the better the results of the line numbering effort. The degree of P&ID completeness prevents recycle when new equipment or systems are added or when equipment or systems are deleted.

As the Piping Material Engineer (or designate) performs the line numbering of the P&ID he or she also initiates the first draft of the Line List (or Line Designation Table) data base. The resultant document from this data base will be extensive for a whole project but will be broken down by plant area.

In addition to the line identification elements (indicated above), the Line List (data base and document) will or should also include important information for the design process and construction process such as the following:

* The line commodity
* The phase (liquid or gas)
* The origin of the line
* The destination of the line
* The line pressure, both the normal operating pressure and the maximum operation (or Design) pressure
* The line temperature, both the normal operating temperature and the maximum operation (or Design) temperature
* An indicator code for Stress Analysis requirements
* PWHT requirements
* The insulation thickness (optional)
* The line schedule (optional)

The line list once initiated will have many additions, deletions and be used by lots of people throughout the project both in the design office and in the field.

One of the first and most important activities where the line list is used is when the definitive labor hour estimate is generated. The number of lines on a project has a direct bearing on the labor hours required. This is true for the piping design activities in the home office, the pipe fabrication shop and for the installation contractor in the field. So it is very important to get it right.

The post Section – 2A: Introduction to Line Numbering appeared first on pipingdesigners.com.

The tools in this group are specifically for the well trained and experienced Piper who is currently in a leadership or supervision role.

This person should already know the basics and terminology of piping leadership.
If anyone has any more tools they would like to share, please contact me, on info@pipingdesigners.com/wp/

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Checking or the Quality Assurance & Quality Control (QA/QC) in process plant piping engineering and design is a grossly misunderstood activity that is performed (or should be performed) by every piping group on every process plant project deliverable. Problems arise when checking is not done and when it is done it is often done incorrectly. When it is done incorrectly not only the end result (the document) suffers but the designer who created the document suffers and the checker who does the checking also suffers.

The document (the drawing or other deliverable) suffers because the “Check” was ineffective or incomplete. In some cases the checker “thinks” he or she is a better designer than the designer. So they turn the sheet over and redraw the configuration in “red” and send it to the correction group. The checker redraw is a document that in fact has never been checked. In other cases even after a normal check, mistakes may remain and this will cause another round of costs due to the re-checking, correcting (revision), approval, printing in the office to the cost of reissue handling in the field.

The document creator (the designer) suffers because he or she gets blamed for every “red” mark the checker finds on a document. The designer’s reputation suffers and they get the feeling that the “Checker” is out to get them. The truth is that most (if not all) of the “red” marks on a check print are in fact not the designers fault. They are more often traced to late changes to P&ID, vendor drawings or data from another discipline.

The document checker suffers because he or she gets a bad reputation and people do not want to work with them.
They do not learn to do it right so they keep making the same mistakes.
As a checker you may ask the obvious question, how do you do it right? That is simple; when you (as a checker) find a “red” mark (indicating a mistake) you should dig deep and find out why is this “wrong.” Is it really wrong and why?
That is the real purpose of checking.

“Why doesn’t it work like this?” and the second: “Why is there so much animosity between the designers and the checkers?”
These are both very good and very valid questions. The answer to both questions is the same.
The answer is the lack of training. There is not now nor has there ever been proper training in what checking is or how to do checking.
Before you did your first checking did anyone give you receive any training or any simple instructions about how to check or what to check?

What kind of (checking) training should be given? Who should be given this (checking) training?
The training given should include everyone in the piping design department. It must include the definition of what checking really is and what is the real target of the checking process.
Checking is really the last stage in the process normally called QA/QC. QA/QC stands for Quality Assurance and Quality Control. QA or Quality Assurance is the things that are done ahead of time during job set-up to assure that things will be done a certain way.
This includes filing systems, procedures, and specifications governing the work as it proceeds forward. QA is also the proper follow through during the work to remain in compliance with the procedures.
Example, you set up a filing system for vendor data and the first drawings that came in got filed in their correct places. But later when revisions came in they got “lost” and were not placed in the correct file. This is not good.

QC or Quality Control (Checking) is the verification of the product of all the accumulated data and work processes.

Our business is the process plant engineering and design business. In the process plant engineering and design profession the deliverables are drawings.
For the piping design department the deliverables include piping plan drawings and piping isometrics.
The piping plan drawing (or the 3D model) is important but it is just a means to an end.
The isometric is the end product and must contain all the information necessary to purchase the correct material, fabricate the piping configuration, and install the line or system complete with testing and check-out.
The training for Piping Checking (QA/QC) should cover both the Purpose and the Process.

The Purpose

The purpose of checking as it applies to piping drawings in a Process Plant Project is to verify that all the specifications, drawings and other deliverables reflect the correct combination of the diverse issues impacting the end product. These include but are not limited to:

• Safety
• Function
• Operability
• Maintainability
• Constructability
• Mechanical integrity
• Mathematical Accuracy

Piping Design and the deliverables of the piping design effort is an important part of any process plant project and the checking of the piping drawings cannot be diminished in its importance.
With the above in mind:

• “Rule #1” all products and deliverables from the piping design group shall be checked.
• “Rule #2” checkers check the design, they do not do the design
• “Rule #3” all corrections shall be done by the original designer of the document (when ever possible)

The Process

The Piping Design Supervisor for a project assigns the responsibilities for checking to one or more individuals. These “checkers” are held responsible for checking all (or a specific assigned group of) documents. These checkers should be well trained and well experienced individuals who can be fair, who can focus on quality and have a firmness of conviction.

The process of checking includes:

1. Defining what is a “checkable” product
2. Freezing all work on the area that is in check
3. Becoming familiar with the assigned area
4. Defining what constitutes the source material for the assigned area.
5. Obtaining a copy of the current revision of each of all source material
6. Using a set (or standard) checking procedure
7. Diplomacy between the designer who made the drawings and the checker
8. Fairness when determining right from wrong
9. Proper correction of the drawing(s) based on the checker’s direction
10. Proper backing and support of the Piping Design Supervisor

You may question “What does all this mean?” Let’s take each of the items from this list and discuss them in detail.

“Defining what is a checkable product?”

This means that you should not spend hours/money checking work that is not ready for check. This is the responsibility of the piping design supervisor. If a drawing is not finished, not ready for check then it should not be placed in the checking group. A checkable product in piping would or should be all the piping plan drawings (or CADD models) and all isometrics that are complete. They have been through all the required reviews with all changes and comments incorporated. All activities involving other groups such as stress analysis, or instrument checks have been completed and comments incorporated. A checkable piping plan or isometric is a document that, in the absence of checking should be thought of as ready to go out the door. If it is not ready to go out the door then it is not ready to be checked. A checkable product is also a complete package of the check prints and all source material.

“Freezing all work on the area that is in check”

This again this is the responsibility of the piping design supervisor. When all or a portion of an area is placed in the checking group for check then all work on that portion should stop. It makes no logical or economic sense to be changing what the checker thinks he or she is checking. Too often a checker will have a question about something on an in-check drawing and they go and seek a clarification from the designer only to be informed that “Oh, its not like that anymore.” This shows that the product was not ready for check, or there is a lack of communication between the supervisor and the checker or that there is a lack of support by the supervisor for the checker and the checking effort.

“Becoming familiar with the assigned area”

This is a joint responsibility of the piping supervisor and the checker. The checker (if done right) is someone who is totally new to the area being checked. This would be someone who has not worked on the specific assigned area drawings. They may even be someone new to the company or the project and as such they do not have the history of the area. The piping supervisor should provide (and the checker should demand) an overview of the area including the basics of the process, the operation, key maintenance issues and any constructability issues.

“Defining what constitutes the source material for the assigned area”

This again is a joint responsibility between the supervisor and the checker. The source material to be used for the checking of the product (the drawing) should be the same material that was used when the last work was done to create the product (the drawing). Yes! There are times when a later revision of a source document (such as a structural drawing or an equipment outline) with changes will be received after the work was completed. These changes need to be reviewed by the piping design supervisor and a determination made as to whether the change requires pulling the drawings out of the checking group/process for modification. Remember checkers do not do the design. If the checker does the design then who checks the checker?

“Obtaining a copy of the current revision of each of all source material”

Having a copy of all the source material is one thing. Having the latest copy/revision of all the source material is an all together different matter. The checker needs to check with each discipline that created the source documents to determine what the latest revision is. The checker needs to check with the group responsible for vendor data to determine the current revision of drawings for each applicable piece of equipment. Once this is done and correct and up-to-date copies are in hand the checker should review the revisions of these drawings against the revision used to prepare the “in check” drawings. If it is found there are differences then the piping supervisor should be notified and a decision as to the suitability for check should be made.

“Using a set (or standard) checking procedure”

Using a standard checking procedure can be a company issue. Some may have very well defined guidelines for checking while others will have little or nothing. With or without the guidelines the checker himself or herself should follow a well structured and methodical procedure when checking piping documents. Piping documents as noted previously normally include piping plans and isometrics. The isometric is recognized as the defining deliverable of any piping effort. The checker should have a check list of normal things to check on the everyday isometric and any project specific items that exist.

“Diplomacy between the designer who made the drawings and the checker”

This is a two way street. Both individuals should be motivated by the same goal. That goal is the accuracy of the information, the quality of the product (isometric), the reputation of the company and the interests of the client. With the proper attitude about the common goals there needs to be open and constructive communication between the checker and the designer whose work is in check. It would not be proper for the checker to “attack” the designer when seeking insight into why something was done a certain way. It is also not proper for the designer to rebuff the checker or be flippant with answers to the checkers inquiries.

“Fairness when determining right from wrong”

This is the checkers responsibility. The checker is a checker for now on this job but on the next job they may be in a different position and making enemies by arbitrary decisions would not prove to be productive in the long run. When an apparent error is found the checker should try to find out where the “error” came from not who made the “error.” What information did the designer use to create the document and what information did the checker use to check the document. There may have been a revision to the source information between the time the designer did the original work and the time of the check. Decisions about right and wrong should be made solely on the basis of the source documents and issues such as safety, functionality, operability, maintainability and constructability. When done with the checking the checker should sign and date the check print and forward it for correction.

“Proper correction of the drawing(s) based on the checker’s direction”

The proper correction of the drawings includes who does the correction and how the corrections are done. The first choice of who does the correction is the person who made the drawing in the first place. This is not always possible but where possible the originating designer gains insight as to mistakes he or she might have made, thus doing the corrections becomes a learning experience. When the originating designer does the correcting it affords a chance to catch items that the checker was not aware of that were deemed important to the original design. “How” the corrections are done is of even more importance. The corrector is to do the corrections completely and exactly as marked by the checker. When the corrector has an issue with a mark or change made by the checker then the corrector should discuss it with the checker. This conversation should be conducted with the proper attitude on the part of both parties. When done making the corrections the person doing the corrections should sign and date the check print properly.

“Proper backing and support of the Piping Design Supervisor”

The Design Supervisor needs to remember he (or she) is responsible for all of what the designer has produced. If the design is bad then it is the Supervisor’s fault not the designer’s. The Piping Design Supervisor is the supervisor of all of the piping design not just the good stuff. Proper design supervision means that the Design Supervisor makes frequent and detailed reviews of what each designer is doing and how they are doing it. The Design Supervisor is also responsible for all instructions, data flow and communications effecting information related to the design work. Proper backing does not mean always taking the side of the checker. It does mean backing the checker when the checker is right. When there is an issue that seemingly cannot be resolved between a checker and originating designer, a corrector or anyone else, the responsible piping supervisor needs to get involved. He or she needs to determine the facts, review the supporting source documentation listen closely to both sides and make a decision consistent with the goals of the project.

If all of this is done, and done consistently everyone involved will benefit. The most important one to benefit will be the company. They will have a better trained, better functioning design group and they will be more likely to get repeat business from satisfied clients.

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Checking Colour Code Table

Colours to use, what they mean & their primary use.

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Piping Designers – Check yourselves

For those independent designers that work on their own, or that preliminary work that goes out for bid, there is no substitution for perfect work.
Incomplete work and errors, all cost extra.

Here are some useful tips to reduce what a checker would find to almost nothing.

As a first step, check all of the information in the title block for conformance with the P&ID and the plot plan.
Double check the line number, area number and piping material spec.

Step two, yellow off the flowsheet as the isometric is traced on the flowsheet from start to finish.
All inline components should appear on the iso.
Check flow direction.
Check all continuations on the ISO (against vessel drawings, including nozzle number, nozzle orientation, coordinates and flange type, gasket and rating.

Using a 3-D system and computer spec ?
Check the Bill of Materials.
Getting carbon steel materials in stainless steel lines is easy, especially if the final spec was not available when modelling started.
Are all of the components in the line from the spec the line was modelled in?
Check for fabrication category (shop – field) against the requirements for your projects.
Many designers field run every thing below 40mm, some field run everything below 50mm.

Valves can be a pain, especially generic ones.
Small bore valve dimensions change.
Every manufacturer and valve type uses different overall dimensions.
Here it is important to specify the make and model of every valve.

The use of generic face to face dimensions will produce spool drawings with cut lengths that will be incorrect.
The overall length of control valves, specialty items, instrumentation and anything else that is inline needs to be checked against the certified vendor data published for the project.

Always consider manufacturing restrictions when selecting field weld locations.
Prefabricated spools will be shipped by tractor-trailer.
Make spools fit on trailers and where appropriate into the average stress relieving oven.
Always allow for adjustment with appropriately selected field welds.

Colour is an extremely useful tool.
Yellowing off checked items on the P&ID, Line list, ISO and GA takes away the need to recheck already checked areas.

With practices like these, your checker may be left with little to find.

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