TPI January 2009

f i t t ings feature on . . .

Double block and bleed valve

Seamless steel pipe fittings

A custom compact double block and bleed valve from Parker Instrumentation is helping to reduce the size and weight of a groundbreaking skid produced for the Chevron Tahiti platform in the Gulf of Mexico. Built by Test Automation & Controls, the equipment is believed to be the largest chemical injection skid ever produced, and has been designed to operate at 15,000 PSI, to withstand the pressures required for operations in the Tahiti field’s deep, sub-salt reservoirs. Parker’s integrated valve provides a 15,000 PSI rated double block and bleed function. At this operating pressure, such valve configurations are usually constructed using discrete components, involving a large amount of space, extensive weight, and a large number of potential leak paths. The number of components is often made higher because the cone and thread interfaces used to make con- nections at these pressures are usually fitted with an additional anti-vibration accessory, to combat the common issue of vibration-induced problems associated with threaded connections. To simplify the project, Parker Instrumentation suggested an uprated version of its single-piece 10,000 PSI

double block and bleed manifold, fitted with the company’s unique 15,000 PSI rated MPI compression tube fittings. The resulting manifold is estimated to have reduced the mounting space and weight budgets by around 50%, and replaces around nine individual components (three valves and six anti-vibration glands), greatly reducing potential leak paths. “The size and weight reductions contributed by this manifold have helped to reduce the topside equipment budget,” commented Kevin Burke of Parker Instrumentation. “The manifold also helps to eliminate threaded connections, a common source of reliability problems.” Parker Instrumentation is part of the Parker Hannifin group, a diversified manufacturer of motion and control technologies and systems, providing precision-engineered solutions for a wide variety of commercial, mobile, industrial and aerospace markets.

Unifit Boru Baglanti is a manufacturer and wholesaler of seamless steel pipe fittings and flanges. Using state-of-the-art technology and experienced staff, the company manufactures Unifit branded products with high quality standards. Once established in the domestic market, the company extended its activities abroad, and currently exports to Europe and the Middle East. Unifit’s production activities occupy a 6,000m 2 area, with nearby highways and cargo ports, giving the company a logistical advantage. The company is based in Turkey, which is a member of the European Customs Union and in negotiations for permanent membership of the European Union. Sister company Burak Boru, a seamless carbon steel stockist, supplies all of Unifit’s product ranges. Occupying a leading position in the sector of seam- less steel pipe trading with its stock and sales volume, the company supports many industrial sectors, such as automotive, HVAC installations, construction, and naval architecture. With the basic principle of covering material demands based on dimensions, quality, and quantity on time, the company determines its stock policy according to customer requests. The company has a 45,000m 2 stocking area, with stock capacity of 30,000 tons. All materials supplied by Burak Boru are tested in the manufacturing factory and are certificated according to EN, DIN, ASTM, API and GOST standards. The company has a quality management system, and has been certified to ISO 9001:2000.

Parker Instrumentation Products Division, Europe – UK

ipd@parker.com www.parker.com

Parker Hannifin Middle East – United Arab Emirates mamin@parker.com www.parker.com

Electrofusion fittings Radius Systems (formerly Uponor) has developed a technologically advanced electrofusion fitting designed to bring time and cost savings to water service connection operations. The QuickTEE features an integrated socket that provides a rapid, single weld, service connection from water main to service pipe, saving at least three minutes in fitting time per connection. By reducing the number of joints in the system, the QuickTEE improves overall integrity as well as reducing the number of parts required on-site (and in the supply chain), by integrating all fittings needed for the service connection into one part. The base of the QuickTEE uses Radius Systems’ Unifit range rated technology, making each fitting capable of working on more than one pipe size. A built-in clamp mechanism secures the service pipe in place during the fusion cycle, removing the need for service pipe clamp tools. In trials these integrated clamps proved popular with installers, ensuring easy compliance with industry work procedures. QuickTEE service fittings are now being made available in the UK following a period of trial evaluation by leading water utilities. Installation of the fittings requires no additional training or any new tooling.

Unifit Boru Baglanti – Turkey info@unifitfittings.com www.unifitfittings.com

Radius Systems Limited – UK sales@radius-systems.co.uk • www.radius-systems.co.uk

Burak Boru – Turkey info@burakboru.com www.burakboru.com

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January 2009 Tube Products International