By following these top five tips below, you can ensure that your future pipeline installations will withstand the test of time.
1. Specifications
Ensure that you are choosing the correct spacer for your particular installation and project specifications.
This appears to be a straightforward consideration, however, often spacers that “˜only just’ comply with project specifications are used due to cost requirements or more suitable products not being available.
Your pipe casing type should also be considered when choosing a spacer system.
Metallic spacers have a track record of damaging plastic casings such as fibreglass or glass-reinforced plastics (GRP) casings and can greatly reduce the lifespan of the pipeline installation.
Finding a single spacing product that is versatile and flexible to suit a range of diameters and casing materials could mean that only one product is required for the entire job.
This in turn will save on time, money and your contractor’s patience.
2. Standards
There is currently no Australian standard for spacers used in pipelines, however ensuring that your pipe centralisation method complies with board and authority best practices is encouraged for successful pipeline installation.
Water authorities such as the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) provide a list of codes available for purchase that will guide you toward complying with industry good practices.
3. Durability
The durability of a spacer is just as important as the durability of the pipe, casing and other equipment.
For projects such as waterflood or produced water injection wells, in most cases, the water being re-injected is highly corrosive. Because of this, it is essential that inert spacers are considered.
Strength of the spacer also becomes more important as the size of the pipe increases, therefore ensuring that you choose a centralising system that supports the weight of your pipe is crucial to overall pipeline success.
4. Speed
Experiencing delays during pipeline construction is never desirable, and setbacks during pipe centralisation can slow down overall installation of the pipe.
When choosing a spacer or centraliser system, aim for one that can be easily packaged, transported and reassembled onsite.
Delivery and time costs can be large, so be sure to check the packaging and delivery options of your spacer system to avoid delays either on-site or during transportation.
5. Technical Support
When using different products and equipment on a pipeline project, it is worth considering the availability of technical support for each.
The designers of the spacer and centraliser units at kwik-ZIP have shown how effective it is for clients to work with a supplier that is Australian owned and based, according to kwik-ZIP Managing Director Jason Linaker.
“As kwik-ZIP is Australian owned, clients and contractors are given the ability to directly contact the manufacturer to provide assistance and support throughout installation,” said Mr Linaker.
For more information on kwik-ZIP’s products and services visit www.kwikzip.com