Minimum distance between pipelines 1

[pch1]

I need to draw a 24" pipeline with ball valve that has an 8" bypass running alongside it. What is the minimum distance that can be used between the two pipelines? Is there a general rule of thumb I can use for any pipeline?
Also what is the minimum distance that can be used from a valve to a fitting in a pipeline.
Thanks
Paul

 

[JohnBreen]

Hello Paul,

There are several issues that must be considered when you lay out the piping. The closest that piping can be placed in parallel lines is usually dictated by in-line components like valves (and their operators). Don't forget that sometimes these components must be replaced and there needs to be room to do that. The flange diameter for your NPS 24 piping could be 32 inches for class 150 piping up to 46 inched for class 1500 piping - check it out.

The OD of flange sets may be the dimension that determines the very closest spacing, but there may be other issues like maintenance (and inspection) of sliding and guided supports.

Take a look at the pipe stress analyses for the piping and see how much (and in what direction) ALL the piping (including adjacent lines) is moving during expansion/contraction. You may find that you have to tell the piping engineer that there is not enough room, because of expansion/contraction (sometimes 2 or more analysts will do pipe stress analyses and not coordinate with each other). On pipe racks where the piping includes multiple expansion/contraction loops, you must carefully plan the layout and spacing (don't forget guides into and out of the loops).

Do yourself a favor and buy an early Christmas gift: "The Piping Guide". This is a "must have" guide for piping designers, and It answers your question and many others that you might have. Go here:

http://www.pipingguide.com/

Best regards, John.