January 18, 2023

Common Errors in Industrial Pipe Handling and How to Avoid Them

Common Errors in Industrial Pipe Handling and How to Avoid Them

As we take giant leaps into the future today, industrial pipes remain the arteries fueling progress across different sectors of the global economy. They are crucial for transporting water, chemicals and gases over long distances, across borders and even undersea along the ocean floor. The rising importance of industrial piping solutions is reflected in the growth predicted for the global pipe market, which could increase at a CAGR of 4.6% by 2032 (according to Future Market Insights). 

That said, it is also vital to pay close attention to the common mistakes when laying, surveying and maintaining industrial pipes for different applications. Data from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) lists several potential causes for leaks and accidents, including corrosion, welding defects, operator error and pipe defects. 

If you are working with industrial pipes, it pays to be aware of the common pitfalls to avoid. 

3 errors to avoid in industrial pipe handling

Several common mistakes can occur during industrial piping system design, installation, and maintenance. Here is a preview of the top vulnerable areas and how to avoid them.

Mistake #1: Improper cleaning and fitting

Installation of industrial piping requires tremendous precision and adherence to safety practices. To optimize their usable lives, the pipes need to be cleaned and prepared correctly before they are installed in the infrastructural framework. Furthermore, it’s also imperative that the piping is fitted in the right manner, so it remains free from potential damages and vulnerabilities. 

The silver lining is that such mistakes can be avoided simply through proper and thorough planning before laying the pipes. You can seek expert assistance in this regard to ensure the pipes are fitted faultlessly. 

Mistake #2: Choosing the wrong kind of pipe fittings 

There are different kinds of pipe fittings, such as elbows, reducers, unions, couplings, crosses, plugs, adapters and caps. Each type of fitting has its own unique function, and using the wrong type of fittings, such as a reducer unit in place of bushings, can lead to the failure of the piping system sooner or later.

The solution to avoid this error is to seek the relevant expertise and use the right fittings for the right purpose. 

Mistake #3: Ignoring manufacturer recommendations

Manufacturer recommendations for industrial pipe fittings may include information on proper installation and maintenance, suggested operating conditions and pressure ratings, and compatibility with specific types of pipes and fluids. 

Additionally, manufacturers may also provide guidelines for the handling and storage of the pipe fittings. It is important to follow these recommendations diligently to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the pipe fittings. 

A reliable sourcing partner can make your industrial piping solutions fail-safe. 

You can avoid the costly errors discussed above by choosing a comprehensive piping solutions partner like Moglix. We provide various types of industrial pipes and pipe fittings from a variety of brands. In addition to being a one-stop solution for all your piping requirements, we also offer safety audit solutions.