Placing Dead Weight Support

The process of placing dead weight support typically involves the following steps:

Identifying the location for the support: The place of placing the dead weight support should therefore depend on such factors as the weight and length of the pipe as well as the fluid it contains, operating temperatures and pressures and any other factors that may cause instability.

Preparing the foundation: The basis for building the dead weight support should be plain and firm so that it could accommodate the weight of the pipe as well as that of the support.

Installing the support: The dead weight support must also be affectionate that is bolted or has some kind of fasteners tightened according to the manufacturer’s knowledge.

Testing the support: The dead weight support should be checked to conform that it is well fixed and that the designed support is being realized on the pipe.

Inspecting the support: It is imperative that the dead weight support should every now and then undergo some checks to make sure it’s in good state and is as efficient as before.

Proper method of support must be applied and the manufacturer’s instructions/guidelines must be followed to ensure the correct support and right piping system which is safe and reliable.

Weight-loaded supports or dead weight supports or pipe shoes require engorging of proper planning and befitting installation to support the loads that they are likely to carry without overstraining the pipes or the equipment. These supports are employed in piping systems in order to fasten pipes and equipment or else act as bearing gear; and these reinforcements are often a necessity to the general structure of the entire system. Here's a general process for placing dead weight supports:

1. Determine Support Locations:

• Determine the extent of dead weight support requirement in the piping system or in other words, which part of the piping system requires the support most. It may involve aspects such as the size and weight of pipes and different materials they are made of, temperature, and plan of the system.

2. Calculate Load Requirements:

• The support points for the building should be identified and the load bearing capacity that is needed for each support point should also be established. In this determination, one has to consider the weight of the pipe, the fluid that it is likely to transport as well as any other equipment that is connected to the pipe and other influence factors such as thermal expansion.

3. Select Appropriate Supports:

• Select the correct type of dead weight supports that are right for the load requirements, layout of the system, and others. Some of the commonly used types are pipe shoes, saddles, and anchors.

4. Prepare the Installation Area:

• Before installation, make sure that the section where the device is to be installed is properly cleared and does not have any barriers to the installation process. It should be able to accommodate the positioning and fixing of the dead weight support.

5. Position the Support:

• Always position the dead weight support at the intended place in respect of the pipe or equipment being supported.

6. Secure the Support:

• Proper anchoring should be done by fastening the dead weight support by anchor bolts. Check that the support is horizontal and in the correct position relative to the pipe or equipment it supports.

7. Verify Load Distribution:

• Check that their weight is spread out on the support to ensure that there are no areas of pressure. If need be, it is advisable to alter the support being given.

8. Weld or Bolt Attachment:

• In regards to the type of support and the specifications of the systems, you may require welding or bolting of the support to the pipe or equipment. If welding is necessary then welding procedures and standards should be followed in order to avoid accidents.

9. Insulate and Protect:

• If this piping system is to have high temperature or cryogenic fluids, further means of protection such as insulation or applied coatings to the support should be given careful considerations.

10. Conduct Load Testing (Optional):

• Very occasionally load testing may be applied if at all for essential applications so as to affirm that the support will not deform or fail under the expected loads.

11. Documentation:

• It is recommended that any dead weight support installation, both the location and capacity and any specifications or drawings, are documented on file.

12. Inspection and Maintenance:

• It is absolutely necessary to check from time to time the dead weight supports included into the maintenance program to guarantee the proper shape and sufficient support.

It is vital to adhere to the recommended practices in industry standards, codes, and best practices in the installation of dead weight support systems to enhance the reliability of the piping systems. Also, it is recommended to seek advice from other engineers or professionals who are conversant with the particular specifications of your system to avoid improper installation.

Guideline for locating the supports in your piping system

This tip will give you a guideline for locating the supports in your piping system

• Use the code recommendations for the spacing of  dead weight supports (B31 etc. ).
• Consider existing support points.
• Reduce span by half of the equipment.
• Lessen the span for concentrated loads.
• Support concentrated loads.
• Support offset loads.
• Reduce the span for more laggard or insulation.
• Supports must be placed at changes in direction (No overhung corners, at the top or at the bottom of the risers).
• Choose the type of support, rigid, spring or constant based on the results of the thermal expansion analysis.

Here are some guidelines for locating the supports in your piping system:

• Stiffeners are provided near the areas of high concentration of loads. This category comprises pump, valves, and compressors among other equipment.
• Find support at the turnings. This will also ensure that the pipe does not develop a sag or a buckle which could be a danger to the structure.
• Place supports at intervals according to the position of the stairs. This will ensure that there is proper distribution of the weight of the pipe and the contents within it.
• It should be noted that one should employ the different types of support. This will in turn assist in preventing the pipe from being overstressed.
• Think about the thermal expansion of the pipe. This is especially the case for the long strings of pipes.

Here are some additional tips for  locating the supports in your piping system:

• It is recommended to follow manufacturer’s support spacing guidelines for the given pipe.
• The kind of pipe that is being used should be taken into consideration when choosing the type of support. For instance, ductile iron pipe needs different support than steel pipe.
• Do not place supports on welds or fittings as this may cause constraints on the property. This could lead to stress concentration and as a result could fail.
• Ensure that the supports are correctly dimensioned and that they are put in place correctly.
• Check on the supports frequently to see if there is any crack or if they are torn up.

The following are some of the ways that can be followed to ensure that the piping system is adequately supported and therefore will function as expected.

Here are some specific examples of where to locate supports in your piping system:

• On the bottom of a vertical pipe which is open at the bottom only. This will in turn help in bearing the weight of the pipe and anything that may be contained in it.
• At the top of the pipe which is positioned vertically. This will assist in avoiding the pipe from bursting.
• At the entrance of a tee or near a change in direction in a horizontal pipe. This will ensure that the pipe does not commence slacking.
• Around a highly stressed area for instance near a pump or a valve. This will assist in taking some of the weight of the load and reduce the pressure that pipe will be subjected to.
• At set positions on the longitudinal axis of a long string of pipe. This will assist in the case of evenly distributing the weight of the pipe as well as the contents it holds.

It should also be mentioned that these are only general recommendations. Where supports should be installed in your piping system will depend on many factors, and specifics of your piping system design. However, it is advised that one has to consult a professional engineer in order to ascertain the right support for the piping system.

Dead Weight Support

To place dead weight support, follow these steps:

1. Choose the appropriate dead weight support. The weight of the support must be sufficient to support the weight of the object being supported.
2. Place the dead weight support underneath the object being supported. The support should be centered and evenly distributed.
3. Secure the dead weight support to the object being supported. This can be done using straps, chains, or other means.
4. Test the dead weight support to ensure that it is secure and can support the weight of the object.

Here are some safety tips for placing dead weight support:

• Make sure that the dead weight support is properly rated for the weight of the object being supported.
• Place the dead weight support on a level surface.
• Center the dead weight support underneath the object being supported.
• Secure the dead weight support to the object being supported using straps, chains, or other means.
• Test the dead weight support to ensure that it is secure and can support the weight of the object.

Here are some additional tips for placing dead weight support:

• If the object being supported is heavy, use multiple dead weight supports to distribute the weight evenly.
• If the object being supported is unstable, use additional supports to prevent it from tipping over.
• Be careful not to overload the dead weight supports.
• Inspect the dead weight supports regularly for signs of wear or damage.

By following these safety tips, you can help to prevent accidents when placing dead weight support.

How to Calibrate a Pressure Gauge With a Dead Weight Tester

The pressure gauge can be calibrated with the help of the dead weight tester as the method is quite precise. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Note: The following are suggested to be inspected and set for use; the dead weight tester, the pressure gauge to be calibrated, and safety measures.

Materials and Tools You'll Need:

1. Dead weight tester
2. Pressure gauge to be calibrated
3. Lubricating oil (if required for the dead weight tester)
4. Gloves and safety goggles
5. Calibration certificate (for reference)
6. Appropriate adapters or fittings
7. Weights for the dead weight tester (known masses)

Procedure:

Prepare the Dead Weight Tester:

• Check that the dead weight tester is clean and free from defects.
• Grease the operational parts if necessary and as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Set Up the Dead Weight Tester:

• Before using the dead weight tester make sure it is placed on a firm and flat surface.
• Make sure that the tester is connected with the pressure source like gas cylinders or hydraulic pump and with the pressure measuring device like DP indicator or manometer.

Select Appropriate Weights:

• Decide on the range of pressures for which you want to set the pressure gauge. Based on the above range, it is necessary to choose the appropriate weights also called known masses for the dead weight tester.

Assemble the Pressure Gauge and Dead Weight Tester:

• Connect the pressure gauge to the dead weight tester through the correct accessories or connectors.
• Make sure that the connection you are creating is safe from leakage.

Calibration Process:

• Perform the calibration starting with the least pressure range to be calibrated. Hang the selected weights on the piston of the dead weight tester properly.
• Sustain and step by step increase pressure on the system with the help of the piston lift. Ensure that you keep checking the pressure gauge increasing pressure.

Record Readings:

• Take the pressure gauge readings at the set time intervals as the pressure is being gradually raised. Before recording make sure that the readings are constant.

Calculate Error:

• Subtract the pressure that was read on the pressure gauges from the known pressure that was applied using the weights. The error is the quantity obtained from the observed value subtracting the expected value.

Adjust the Pressure Gauge:

• If the pressure gauge readings are off, manipulating the gauge to the correct standard shall be done. It is also important to note that there are certain models of pressure gauges that have an option of getting a tuning screw.

Repeat for Other Pressure Ranges:

• If for any of the pressure range a zero adjustment is required, then follow the same steps, starting from 5 to 8.

Complete Calibration:

• When you are done with all the pressures you need to calibrate, finish the calibration.

Documentation:

• Record all collected calibration data, specifically the observed pressure and expected pressure as well as the errors and any changes made to the pressure gauge if any are done.
• Provide the client with a calibration certificate together with any data or information obtained from the process.

Final Checks:

• Lastly the operator should check with the pressure gauges and confirm the values they obtain are within the set standards.

Maintenance and Recalibration:

• Register and restandardize the pressure gauge on a usual basis so that the pressure gauge more regularly delivers correct pressure measurement.

Pressure gauge calibration with the help of Dead weight tester is one of the most delicate operations that demand much attention to detail. By practice of the aforementioned steps and practice of the guidelines set within the industry and procedures will help in attaining accurate and credible measurements.

Deadweight support - an overview

Deadweight support means of support that rely on the weight of one object to hold or have an impact on another. Deadweight supports are usually applied in piping systems to bear the load of the pipe and the media conveyed by it. Deadweight supports can also be used to support other kinds of structures, that is, tanks, vessels, and equipment.

Deadweight supports which are used are concrete, steel or cast iron. The weight of the deadweight support should be chosen to be enough to support the weight of the object being supported. Deadweight supports are usually positioned underneath the load that has to be sustained and are held in place through the use of straps, chains and other similar methods.

Some of the advantages of deadweight supports include; The deadweight supports are relatively cheaper and are simple to install as well. They also do not demand frequent repairs and, therefore, are reliable.

Here are some of the benefits of using deadweight supports:

• Reliability: Deadweight supports are very effective and not much attention has to be given to them.
• Simplicity: Deadweight supports are easy to design and are easy to install.
• Cost-effectiveness: Being one of the simplest and cheapest types of supports, deadweight supports are widely used.
• Durability: Deadweight supports are long lasting and can be used in areas with extreme conditions.

Here are some of the applications of deadweight supports:

• Piping systems: Dead weight supports are special kinds of supports that are widely used in piping systems to support the weight of the pipes as well as the fluid contained in it.
• Tanks and vessels: Deadweight supports can be utilized in supporting tanks and vessels for instance storage tanks and pressure vessels.
• Equipment: Deadweight supports are useful for supporting equipment such as pumps, compressors and turbines and other such equipment.

There are many applications in the industrial and commercial sectors where deadweight supports are required.Due to this, they present a viable and cost effective approach to the reinforcement of many structures and objects.

The size, shape and location of deadweight supports have to be correctly chosen if they are to be used in a particular application; the services of a professional engineer may be required.

Understand the purpose and benefits of dead weight supports

Deadweight supports provide support and alignment to pipes used in piping systems to ensure that the pipes do not get misplaced. This is because they offer a pulling force that cancels the force that is exerted by the fluid that is moving in the pipe. Deadweight supports are also used as anti-sag supports to prevent pipes from sagging or buckling as well as anti-vibration supports.

Deadweight supports on the other hand are usually concrete, steel or cast iron materials. It is normally located beneath the pipe and is fastened on the pipe with the use of straps, chains, or any other methods.Thus, its weight must be enough to support the pipe and the fluid that is being transported by the pipe; hence the weight of the dead weight support must be sufficient.

Deadweight supports offer a number of benefits for maintaining the stability and alignment of pipes, including:Deadweight supports offer a number of benefits for maintaining the stability and alignment of pipes, including:

• Reliability: Deadweight supports are very reliable and they do not require frequent attention as far as maintenance is a concern.
• Simplicity: Deadweight supports do not take much effort in the way of designing them as they are easy to install.
• Cost-effectiveness: However, deadweight supports do not depend on the marginal cost and hence are relatively inexpensive.
• Durability: Nowadays deadweight supports are long lasting and they can also be able to stand severe conditions.

Thus, deadweight supports are essential elements of numerous industrial and commercial piping arrangements. They aid in the provision of the necessary support to pipes to enable them to remain factory fitted in extreme situations.

Here are some specific examples of how deadweight supports are used to maintain the stability and alignment of pipes:

• At the base of a vertical pipe: Deadweight supports are utilized at the bottom of the vertical pipes where it has to bear the load of pipelines as well as the content present in it.
• At the top of a vertical pipe: Deadweight supports are also applied to vertical pipes which keep the pipe from buckling at the top.
• Near a change in direction in a horizontal pipe: Deadweight supports are used in horizontal pipes when there is a bend in the pipe so that the pipe does not sag.
• Near a concentrated load, such as a pump or valve: Deadweight supports are provided where loads are high such as pumps and valves to support the weight of the load rather than the pipes.
• At regular intervals along a long run of pipe: Deadweight supports are used on a regular section along long runs of pipe to counterbalance the mass of the pipe and its load uniformly.

Deadweight supports are recommended in the piping system and should therefore engage the services of a professional engineer, to check on the size of the support and how it should be installed.

How to Calibrate a Pressure Gauge With a Dead Weight Tester

Calibrating a pressure gauge using a dead weight tester is a precise and standardized procedure. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to calibrate a pressure gauge with a dead weight tester:

Materials and Tools You'll Need:

1. Dead weight tester
2. Pressure gauge to be calibrated
3. Lubricating oil (if required for the dead weight tester)
4. Gloves and safety goggles
5. Calibration certificate (for reference)
6. Appropriate adapters or fittings
7. Weights for the dead weight tester (known masses)

Procedure:

Prepare the Dead Weight Tester:

• Ensure that the dead weight tester is clean and in good working condition.
• Lubricate any moving parts if required by the manufacturer's instructions.

Set Up the Dead Weight Tester:

• Place the dead weight tester on a stable and level surface.
• Ensure that the tester is properly connected to a pressure source (e.g., a gas cylinder or hydraulic pump) and a pressure measurement device (e.g., a digital pressure indicator or a manometer).

Select Appropriate Weights:

• Determine the range of pressures you need to calibrate the pressure gauge for. Select the appropriate weights (known masses) for the dead weight tester based on this range.

Assemble the Pressure Gauge and Dead Weight Tester:

• Attach the pressure gauge to the dead weight tester using the appropriate adapters or fittings.
• Ensure a secure and leak-free connection.

Calibration Process:

• Begin with the lowest pressure range you want to calibrate the pressure gauge for. Place the selected weights on the piston of the dead weight tester.
• Gradually apply pressure to the system by raising the piston. Monitor the pressure gauge's reading as you increase the pressure.

Record Readings:

• Record the pressure gauge readings at regular intervals as the pressure is increased. Ensure that the readings stabilize before recording.

Calculate Error:

• Calculate the error between the pressure gauge readings and the known pressure values applied using the weights. The error is the difference between the observed value and the expected value.

Adjust the Pressure Gauge:

• If the pressure gauge readings show a significant error, adjust the gauge to match the expected values. Some pressure gauges have adjustment mechanisms that allow you to fine-tune the readings.

Repeat for Other Pressure Ranges:

• If you need to calibrate the gauge for multiple pressure ranges, repeat steps 5 to 8 for each range.

Complete Calibration:

• Once you have calibrated the pressure gauge for all required ranges, complete the calibration process.

Documentation:

• Document all calibration data, including the observed and expected pressure values, errors, and any adjustments made to the pressure gauge.
• Issue a calibration certificate with the results and any relevant information.

Final Checks:

• Perform a final check to ensure that the pressure gauge readings are accurate and within acceptable tolerances.

Maintenance and Recalibration:

• Regularly maintain and recalibrate the pressure gauge as needed to ensure ongoing accuracy.

Calibrating a pressure gauge with a dead weight tester is a precise process that requires attention to detail. Following the above steps and adhering to industry standards and best practices will help ensure accurate and reliable measurements.

Understand the purpose and benefits of dead weight supports

Deadweight supports are used in piping systems to maintain the stability and alignment of pipes. They do this by providing a downward force that counteracts the upward force of the fluid flowing through the pipe. Deadweight supports are also used to prevent pipes from sagging or buckling, and to reduce vibration.

Deadweight supports are typically made of concrete, steel, or cast iron. They are placed underneath the pipe and are secured using straps, chains, or other means. The weight of the deadweight support must be sufficient to support the weight of the pipe and its contents.

Deadweight supports offer a number of benefits for maintaining the stability and alignment of pipes, including:

• Reliability: Deadweight supports are very reliable and require little maintenance.
• Simplicity: Deadweight supports are simple to design and install.
• Cost-effectiveness: Deadweight supports are relatively inexpensive.
• Durability: Deadweight supports are durable and can withstand harsh environments.

Deadweight supports are an important part of many industrial and commercial piping systems. They help to ensure that pipes remain stable and aligned, even under demanding conditions.

Here are some specific examples of how deadweight supports are used to maintain the stability and alignment of pipes:

• At the base of a vertical pipe: Deadweight supports are used at the base of vertical pipes to support the weight of the pipe and its contents.
• At the top of a vertical pipe: Deadweight supports are used at the top of vertical pipes to prevent the pipe from buckling.
• Near a change in direction in a horizontal pipe: Deadweight supports are used near changes in direction in horizontal pipes to prevent the pipe from sagging.
• Near a concentrated load, such as a pump or valve: Deadweight supports are used near concentrated loads, such as pumps and valves, to support the weight of the load and prevent the pipe from being overstressed.
• At regular intervals along a long run of pipe: Deadweight supports are used at regular intervals along long runs of pipe to distribute the weight of the pipe and its contents evenly.

If you are considering using deadweight supports in your piping system, it is important to consult with a qualified engineer to ensure that the supports are properly sized and installed.