Engineering Solutions? ONHP Specialists Know How

OMSKNEFTEKHIMPROEKT JSC (ONHP) engineers in tandem with Omsk Plant of Gas Equipment experts have designed an engineering know-how – low friction supports which can be applied in the construction and operation of petrochemical and utility plants.

Traditionally, the piping supports which are exposed to metal-to-metal contact with bearing structures are applied in the design and construction of petrochemical and utility plants. Such support joints are subject to considerable contact friction. As a result of excessive loads caused by mentioned friction it is required to apply costly materials which significantly contribute to the increase in construction facility price. Moreover, during operation of pipelines with such joints it is required to perform in-service corrective maintenance.

To help solve such challenge, Omsk engineers have designed the joints with anti-friction coating of supporting surface. Besides, particular components were implemented into the design in order to assure even load distribution over the contact surface. Once metal-to-metal contact in support is not present, corrosion in structures is eliminated. Therefore, there is no need in scheduled maintenance except for visual inspection of supports.

Various support designs were tested in Force Measurement Module at Omsk Plant of Gas Equipment.  Data obtained as a result of such research and development work formed the backbone of Supports Specifications (abbreviated as TU 1468-001-00151756-2010 “Low Friction Support Joints for Process Pipelines, Steam and Hot Water Pipelines”).

At present such know-how is being put into practice.  A number of petrochemical companies showed interest in low friction supports. The article written by the Know-How Designers Mr. Oleg Troian, Chief Specialist of ONHP Mechanical Design Department and Mr. Artavazd Isabekyan, Development Director of Omsk Plant of Gas Equipment will be published in an industry-specific journal.