Case Study

Jacketing Bends Case Study

CUSTOMER: Lamb Engineering

SECTOR: Process pipework

INDUSTRY: Food and Dairy

Background

Lamb Engineering is a local engineering company specializing in ASME pipe welding, Ammonia pipe systems upgrades, Steam/Oil and Gas industry, and process pipework for the Food and Dairy industry. They work with a wide range of clients, but one in particular we have interest in is Whittakers Chocolate located about 500m from our factory.

The Challenge

The challenge when working with chocolate is that it needs to be kept at a temperature that allows it to be pumped through the pipe work. To achieve this, warm water jacketed stainless steel tubes (typically using tubes 1” different in diameter) are used for the transfer of chocolate. The challenge with jacketing lines is that finding a combination of different diameter elbows that have similar bend radius to allow the tube lines to remain concentric is difficult. Some fabricators use schedule pipe bends for the outside pipeline, but this means the bend radius’s are quite different, and the pipelines are a long way off being concentric.

The Solution

With an Ultibend combination of a NZ radius internal bend matched with a Zetan radius external bend 1” larger in diameter, the pipelines line up nicely using concentric end plates and are much easier and faster to install. Also, the straight difference between the 2 different specs of bends means that the straights of the internal elbow protrude past the external elbow face, allowing easier welding of the jacketed elbow into the pipeline.

The Results

  • The most important result is a much quicker/smoother install saving both time and money for the installer and the project overall. This is achieved by having more closely aligned centre line radius's
  • The other key result is being able to use concentric end caps, which makes the alignment of the two bends easier, along with being able to have tube work after the bend concentric as well.

Industry Leading Products

When it comes to stainless steel elbows, we pride ourselves on making a finished product that you can have confidence in. Whether traceability, dimensional accuracy, or reliable supply is important to you, we strive to do it better.