One of the most essential parts of many industrial facilities is process piping systems. To a layman, process piping looks similar to other types of plumbing systems like plumbing. While they may share some physical similarities, process piping systems perform different functions. Aside from that, they are also governed by different international, federal and state regulations. This is why you will rarely find a process piping company offering emergency plumbing services or other kinds of plumbing services.
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What is Process Piping?
Process piping is used in various industries that deal with production. In industrial operations, this procedure determines how a variety of gases and fluids move.
Typically, a process piping system consists of components like manual valves, pipes, pressure control equipment, pipe supports, flanges, flow control instruments, nuts, tubing, gaskets, bolts, control valves and temperature control instruments.
The precise makeup of a process piping system solely depends on the application of the system. However, other components that are included to facilitate process piping are separating, pressurizing, or other functions.
What Makes Process Piping Different from Plumbing?
The main difference between process piping and plumbing is centered around the purpose of the piping system. Most times, the system a pipe belongs to can be determined by where the fluid goes and by examining what the pipe is connected to.
For plumbing systems, water transportation is the main goal. On the other hand, the goal of a process piping system is to move gases, chemicals, water, and other fluids with the support of internal processing or manufacturing.
Before a plumbing system can be set up, some special codes, regulations and industry standards must be followed. These regulations help to monitor and limit the material options for plumbing systems. This is why plumbing pipes are manufactured using plastic or copper, based on application requirements like pressure and corrosion.
Also, before one can install and maintain a plumbing system, you must have certain licenses, qualifications and permits. If you don’t have them, whatever you have installed will be subjected to scrutiny by the governing body. It could also lead to a series of fines and penalties or even demolition.
The regulations of plumbing systems are not the same as process piping. This is because process piping is not designed to meet the demands of building services, but rather to support specific internal operations like petroleum refinement or chemical manufacturing. For this reason, engineering standards determine how the design and construction of process piping systems are carried out. In most industries, people in charge of process piping work with the guidelines of the American Society of Civil and Mechanical Engineers (ASCME).
Regardless of what has been said, process piping isn’t free from the impact of the federal government. For safe operation, those carrying out process piping procedures must follow OSHA standards. It’s also important to note that some process piping systems require initial permission, inspection, and approval.
Unlike plumbing, process piping uses a wider selection of pipe materials. The regulations guiding the field allow industries to choose the right type of piping material that suits their budget size, and the kind of fluid they want to move. Some of the industrial or manufacturing functions process piping systems support are starting & stopping of fluid flow, mixing & separating of fluid, depressurization, filtering, construction and others.
Benefits Of Hiring a Plumbing Service
Safety
An average homeowner does not have the level of skill required for fixing plumbing issues safely. Plumbing experts have the knowledge and proper tools needed to provide quality plumbing repair services adequately. So once you notice a fault with your plumbing system, the best thing to do is to call on a professional plumber.
You must also remember that your plumbing system is one of the most essential parts of a home. As such it must be handled with care.
Prevent Recurring Issues
With years of experience in the plumbing field, plumbing experts can deal with whatever plumbing issue you have and prevent it from recurring.
In Case of Emergency
Emergency plumbing situations like a broken sewer pipe can be dangerous and need to be dealt with quickly and professionally. Trying to fix these types of problems yourself can do more harm than good.
Properly Identify The Root Of Your Plumbing Problems
Most plumbing problems usually have a deeper-rooted cause than what an unprofessional eye can see. You need a plumber to help you dig deep into the plumbing issues and fix the problem from the root.
