Vessels & Column Tower Piping

FLUOR NEW DELHI OFFICE
PIPING DEPARTMENT
VESSELS & COLUMN /

TOWER PIPING
PIPING DEPARTMENT
VESSELS & COLUMN / TOWER PIPING
INDEX
1.0 INTRODUCTION OF VESSELS AND TANKS
2.0 PROCESS OVERVIEW
3.0 TYPES OF TOWER
4.0 VESSEL/TOWER PARTS AND INTERNALS
5.0 NOZZLE NOMENCLATURE PER FLUOR PRCTICE
6.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATION (EQUIPMENT LAYOUT)
7.0 SQUAD CHECKING
8.0 PIPING DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS
9.0 OUTPUTS
10.0 SUPPORTING ARRANGEMENT
11.0 ISOMETRIC CHECKING

PIPING DEPARTMENT
1.0 INTRODUCTION OF VESSELS AND TANKS
1.1 Definition
When any chemical change takes place due to the pressure and temperature inside the
equipment is called Vessel. Vessel may be a fractionating tower, in which separation takes
place. Fractionating tower may be called as Fractionating Columns. Vessels are given
names according to their function they perform.
1.2 Types
Vessel may be Process, Storage Vessel and Storage Tanks, mainly we can define as under:
1.3 Nomenclature (General)
1.3.1 Process Vessel: A container for handling chemical change for liquid and
gas.
a. Fractionating Column
• Generally vertical
• Containing trays or packing
• For extraction purpose
b. Reflux Accumulator
• Generally horizontal
• Without internals
• Collect & transmit back to fractionating column
c. Reactor
• Vertical and contains catalyst
• May have agitator arrangements
d. Regenerators
• Generally vertical and contains catalyst from reactor
• Use to restore the catalyst of reactor
1.3.2 Storage Vessel & Storage Tank : Storing liquids

a. Storage Tank
• Flat bottom, floating roof - for volatile liquids
• Flat bottom, open top - for non-volatile liquids
• Flat bottom, conical top - for low volatility liquids
PIPING DEPARTMENT
a. Storage Vessel
Spherical
• Spherical shaped and supported by series of legs
• Contains pressurized gas/ liquid
Spheroid
• Shape re-assembles as a drop of HG
• Has special supports
• For pressurized liquids
Bullets
• Large & thick horizontal vessels
• Contains pressurized gas / liquid
1.1.1 Vertical Vessel: Longitudinal axis is in vertical position.

1.1.2 Horizontal Vessel: Longitudinal axis is in horizontal position
Horizontal Vertical
• Reflux Drums • Feed Surge Drums

• Deaerators • Reactors
• Economizers • Re-generators
• Super Heaters • Fractionating Columns
• Storage Vessel / Storage Tanks • Storage Vessel / Storage Tanks
2.0 PROCESS OVERVIEW
The crude oil is the mixture of hydrocarbon compounds with wide range of boiling
points from 100^F (38^C)
to 1400^F (760^C).
Separation or distillation, is
a process by which a liquid
mixture is partially
vaporized. The vapors are
then condensed, separating
the individual components
of the mixture. As temp. of
crude oil raised, the initial
boiling point (IBP) is
reached. As boiling
continue, the temp raises.
The lightest material
Butane is first product on
just below the 100^F (38^C). The heavier product are produced above 100^F
(38^C)
PIPING DEPARTMENT
The evolution of distillation towers is best explained in three basic steps. The batch
shell still process, the continuous shell still process and the fractional distillation
process.
2.1 Batch Shell

In the batch shell still process, the still will
partially filled with a set feed called batch.
The feed will then heated to the temperature
required to produce the specific product
from the overhead vapors. This process is
repeated each time for each product until
the batch reaches the maximum temperature
for the range of product specified. The feed
remaining in the still is then pumped out,
and the whole process is repeated. Not only
is this process time consuming, but the
product is not always of high quality.
2.2 Continuous Shell

In the continuous shell still process,
the several shell stills are linked in
series to form a battery. Fresh feed
will continuously enters the first still,
which is kept at the lowest
temperature for the next highest
boiling overhead product, and so on.
The number of still required depend
on number of products required. If the feed and the temperature of each still are
remains constant, the finished product is satisfactory quality.
2.3 Fractional
Distillation
Similar to continuous
shell still process, the
Fractional Distillation
process is made up of
several still linked
together in series. The
main difference is that all
the liquid condensate is
returned to the upstream
still.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
As the feed is partially vaporized in the first still, the vapor rise, the travel through
the overhead line, and come in to connect with liquid in the second still. Because
the temperature of liquid is in the second still is lower than the incoming vapors
from the first still, the vapors partially condense. At the same time liquid from
second still enters near the top of the first still. As vapors rise in the first still, they
meet the incoming liquid from the second still. This cause vaporization of the
incoming liquid from the second still and condensation of the rising vapors in the
first still. The same process takes place in all the down stream stills.
2.4 Liquid And Vapor Flow

One of the most common internal devices that allow the single tower to function
similarly to the multi-still unit is the tray, shown in figure below. Slots and holes in
the tray allow to vapor to rise and liquid to flow down.
Rising vapor in the tower pass through slotted bubble caps and come in to contact
with liquid flowing around the caps. The liquid flows downwards through the
downcomer over and around the bubble caps en route to the next downcomer in this
manner. The light boiling fraction in the down flowing liquid are vaporized due to
the heat from the rising vapors, and heavier boiling fractions in the vapors are
condensed and flow down the towers. This process of vaporization and
condensation throughout the tower allows the feed to separated in to the required
boiling range fractions, which are taken out from the tower at their appropriate
locations.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
3.0 TYPES OF TOWERS
The types of tower is based on the two aspects, first service type of the unit like Stripper,
splitter, absorber and vacuum towers etc. second types of internals like trayed and packed.
4.0 VESSEL/TOWER PARTS AND INTERNALS
Shell, head, skirt, skirt vent, skirt access opening, base plate, anchor bolts, anchor bolt
chairs, saddles, mist eliminator, support grids, nozzles, manholes, column davits,
insulation rings, ladders and cages, manhole hinges and davits, platforms and vacuum
stiffening rings etc.
Seal Pans: Flat plate plates bolted or welded to inside the fractionation tower shell below
the downcomer of lowest tray. Used to prevent vapor bypassing up through the
downcomer.
Trays: Trays comes in several types, all with the same purpose to fractionate-out the
lighter hydrocarbon from a liquid. The heavier hydrocarbon will remain in their liquid
state and flow down through downcomer to next tray. The vapor and liquid contact,
which results in fractionation. Types of trays are as under:
4.1 Bubble-cap trays:

The advantages of these trays as follow:
a) very efficient,
PIPING DEPARTMENT
b) Need not be installed level

c) Corrosion is not a factor.
Disadvantages of these trays as follow:
a) Expensive
b) Heavy and bulky
c) Cast iron caps occasionally break
d) Mounting bolts rust.
4.2 Valve trays:

a) Most efficient for all types,
b) Inexpensive and lightweight
c) Need not installed level
d) Corrosion is not a factor
Disadvantages of these trays: None
4.3 Sieve Trays:

a) Inexpensive
b) Lightweight
c) Good for heavy liquids
Disadvantages of these trays as follow:
a) Must be installed level
b) Corrosion a factor
4.4 Distributor trays:

A perforated tray which provides equal
distribution of liquid over the vessel area.
Risers on the tray extend above the liquid level
to permit passes the vapor upward.
4.5 Chimney trays:

A tray composed of chimneys extending above the liquid level of the tray permitting
passage of the vapor upward. The tray collects and removes all liquid products from
a specific portion of the vessel.
Downcomer:
Rectangular flat plate bolted to the shell and trays, inside the fractionation columns.
Used for directing process liquid and to prevent bypassing the vapor.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
5.0 NOZZLE NOMENCLATURE
Vessel nozzle symbols - Fluor uses a system of nozzle symbols to make it easier to
identify nozzles and couplings. These symbols also indicate the nozzle function.
A. = Inlet Nozzle
B. = Outlet Nozzle
C. = Condensate Nozzle
D. = Drain or Drawoff
E. = *
F. = Feed Nozzle
G. = Level Gage or Gage Glass
H. = Handhole
J. = Pump Out Nozzle
K. = *
L. = Level Instrument Nozzle
M. = Manhole
N. = Reboiler Connection
P. = Pressure Connection
R. = Reflux Nozzle
S. = Steam or Sample Connection
T. = Temperature Connection
V. = Vapor Out or Vent Nozzle
W. = Relief Valve Nozzle
*Symbols "E" and "K" are sometimes used for special nozzles.
6.0 EQUIPMENT LAYOUT CONSIDERATION
6.1 Vessel Orientation/Location
Vessel Orientation will determine the location and orientation of:

• Piping equipment connections
• Instrument connections
• Manholes and vents
• Ladders and platforms - size, number, height and
• Anchored support
• Routing and support of piping to and from nozzles
• Davit location
• Access openings
• Drop zone
• Design of connecting piping with other associated equipment that will be
established by the vessel orientation.
• Branches coming to and from the pipeway will be tied down with dimensions.
• Skirt access openings and vents
PIPING DEPARTMENT
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.2 Logistics
• Flow diagram (NPSH, requirement)
• Stress
• Economics
• Support and stability
• Lines run at standard elevations per unit plot drawing
• Vessel davit location (Project specific)
• Aesthetics/Appearance
• Operation, maintenance and safety
• Job standards
• MDS/PDS (Mechanical/Process datasheets)
• Access
• Space for mobile crane/hoist
6.3 Clearance
• Minimum spacing between two vessels should be one large vessel diameter or
1500 mm to 2000 mm (Project / Client’s requirement)
• Minimum 3.0 m away from piperack for forklift (face of dished end)
6.4 Sources Of Information Required To Start Orientation
INFORMATION SOURCE
Flow Diagrams Piping Design Supervisor or Roller Board
Job Specifications, Drafting Room Piping Design Supervisor and Fluor Daniel
Instructions and Standards Standards, Job Book
Preliminary Job Information Project Manager, Design Coordinator or Piping
Design Supervisor
Flow Diagram Transposition (not Piping Design Supervisor
provided in this lesson)
Vessel Drawing or Vessel Quote Drawing Vessel Design Supervisor or Piping Design
Supervisor
Drum Height Flow Diagram or Process Engineer
Process Nozzle Elevations Vessel Drawing or Process Engineer
Normal Liquid Level and Other Liquid Vessel Drawing, Flow Diagram or Process
Levels Engineer
Instrument Nozzle Elevations Vessel Drawing, Process or Instrument
Engineer, Instrument Standard Drawings
Customer Requirements Customer via Project Manager, Design
Coordinator and Piping Design Supervisor
Plot Plan piping designer supervisor
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.5 Steps To Accomplish Horizontal Vessel Study
• Update your flow diagram from "Master".

• Compare vessel outline to flow diagram.
• Vessel I.D.
• Tangent to tangent dimension
• N.L.L.
• Size, rating and quantity of nozzles
• Calculate elevations.
• Centerline of vessel based on minimum height on flow diagram
• Process nozzles based on vessel outline
• Verify or set instrument nozzles based on flow diagram and instrument standard
drawing
• Determine what items require platform or ladder access.
• Study piping transposition
.
6.6 Height Of Horizontal Vessels
Height of horizontal vessels is shown on the flow diagram. If this requirement is not
on flow sheet, there are the following alternatives:
• Vessel height can be increased to meet the minimum 8'-0" headroom
requirement.
Block the operating aisle with a low suction line. (Not recommended)
• Take the pump out of the pump row and locate it near the vessel so that the
suction line does not cross the operating aisle. The NPSH requirement of any
pumps connected to these vessels should be taken into account.
6.7 Nozzle Orientation
Generally, vessel and nozzle orientation should be as follows:
• Inlet should be at the opposite end of vessel (maximum distance) from the
liquid and vapor outlets to prevent "short circuiting" of the flow.
• Level instruments and boot should be at the opposite end of vessel (maximum
distance) from inlet. The instrument bridle connections are located in the surge
section of the vessel. This end of the vessel is nearest the operating aisle.
• To allow for the horizontal growth due to thermal expansion, anchoring the
vessel at the support nearest the pipeway.
• The inlet is normally located on the end of the vessel away from the pipeway.
This arrangement then locates the level instruments next to the operating aisle
for good accessibility per specification 000.250.50001.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
• For setting up the support legs on a horizontal vessel, a good "rule of thumb" to
follow is:
"D" = Vessel diameter,
"L" = Vessel length tan. To tan.
"S" = Distance from tan. to centerline of support leg
Normal shell thickness vessels
S = L/5
Thin shell thickness vessels
S = D/4
Note: In this case the vessel head acts as a stiffener to the shell.
• Vent is located at the opposite end of the vessel from the steam out and a
maximum distance away.
• The vortex breaker is located at the inside bottom of the vessel on the liquid out
nozzle. Its function is to prevent a whirlpool movement of the liquid at pump
suction nozzle.
Vessel orientation will determine the location and orientation of:
a) Piping equipment connections

b) Instrument connections
c) Manholes and vents
d) Ladders and platforms - size and height
e) Anchored support
a) Routing and support of piping to and from nozzles.
6.8 Nozzle Projections

• 150 to 200mm from outside of vessel normally (depending on insulation
thickness)
• All vertical nozzles elevations should be given / guided by the vessel
• All horizontal nozzles project should be given / guided from TL's
• Try to give all nozzle elev./ proj. in round figure i.e. multiple of 5mm from
their respective ref. lines
• Platform requirement must be finalized before giving the nozzle projection
• If there is a platform on top of the vessel then there should be sufficient gap
between nozzle and grating
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.9 Ladders And Platforms

• Platforms are provided for access to manholes, instruments, valves and
equipment, and for crossovers between ladders. The size of these platforms
should be kept to a minimum. The width (2'-6" for Fluor Daniel Standard) is
usually only enough to permit opening of the manhole cover or to provide a
minimum of 1'-6" clearance between handrail and piping such as level
controller, gage glass, level switch or safety valves. Platforming need not
extend underneath valves and equipment to make them accessible.
• Projection of nozzles extending through a top platform must be such that the
flange bolts are above the platform level.
• Avoid supporting heavy piping loads from platforms (generally more than
500 pounds). If it is found necessary to support piping from a platform,
notify the Vessel Group.
• Vessel attachments, such as ladder support clips, platform support clips,
vessel pipe supports, and guides are generally installed by the vessel
fabricator in the shop. In a situation where post weld heat treatment (PWHT)
is required of the vessel, it is important to remember, any changes to the
vessel after heat treatment are not desirable.
• When the centerline of the vessel is no more 15'-0" above grade, no platform
is required.
• A manhole located on top of a horizontal vessel may have a special davit for
removal of the cover or a hinge.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10 Vertical Vessel/Tower
6.10.1 Orientation
A Vessel Orientation will determine the location and orientation of:
6.10.1.1 Manhole/ Trays: Required for accessing the internal piping,

trays and tray bubble caps etc.
Manhole Orientation will determine the location and orientation of:
• Manhole orientation can not be located in downpour area of tray
above.
• The orientation range of manholes is restricted by the
downcomers. The preferred location is parallel to the
downcomer, facing the access way (opposite side of pipeway).
• The preferred range of orientation allows entry into the vessel
over the tray. Entry over the downcomer could be a safety
concern as well as a hindrance to personnel.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
• The preferred range of orientation allows entry into the vessel over the tray.
Entry over the downcomer could be a safety concern as well as a hindrance to
personnel.
• Manhole orientation over a two-pass tray is more limited than that of a single
tray. Entry over the downcomer is generally not acceptable, but still may be
considered an option when faced with a design situation where other options
are less desirable
• The size of the manhole is usually determined by the Vessel Design Group.
• Manhole covers are much too heavy for plant operators or maintenance
personnel to lift. A manhole cover davit or hinge is used to hold the cover
after it has been unbolted. Orient manhole to swing away from ladder leading
to lower level. Manhole cover shall swing 100o without obstruction.
• The elevations of manholes are set by tray arrangement and spacing.
Consideration shall be given to raising or lowering manholes one tray to
provide the most economical ladder and platform arrangement.
• Hinged manholes can also be used for a bottom entry, i.e., reactors
• Nozzles
• Ladder and platforms
• Davit
PIPING DEPARTMENT
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.1.2 Nozzle Orientation

Nozzle orientation is the most critical step in orienting the vessel. To
orienting the nozzles we can follow the steps as under:
• Reflux nozzle: It is important that this liquid be fed to the blank area
portion of the tray for proper distribution.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
• Feed Nozzles: For orientation ref. above sketch. Feeds are

classified into two types: all liquid feed and vapor-liquid mixed
feed
Factors affecting feed internal design:
- Mixing: The internal piping must be arranged so as to obtain the

best mixing between the fresh feed and the liquid from the tray
above.
- Temperature Difference: If the fresh feed is directed against the

downcomer from the tray above, an insulating baffle is required to
prevent flashing of the liquid in the downcomer when temperature
differences are 30 degree or more. The baffle plate also acts as an
erosion shield for high inlet velocities.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
- All downcomers for trays with the same number of passes

will be parallel. When a vessel contains trays with a
different number of passes, the relationship between these
downcomers will be detailed on the vessel outline. These
figures are Fluor Daniel Standard. This information is
covered in a more general manner on Technical Practice
000.250.2651.
- Liquid drawoffs are classified into two types: partial
drawoff and total drawoff.
- For total drawoff, the inside of the outlet nozzle MUST be
made flush with the bottom of the sealed downcomer to
ensure complete removal of liquid. No drain holes are
allowed.
- For partial drawoffs on trays, a shallow drawoff pan or
trough is provided in the tray. The depth of this pan or
trough equals nozzle sizes plus 6 inches. The outlet nozzle
need not be flush with the bottom of the pan. Weep holes
are used as required
- Drawoffs to pump suctions may require deeper drawoff pans
or troughs.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
• Reboiler Nozzle Orientation

PIPING DEPARTMENT
VESSEL LAYOUT – GENERAL
This practice in conjunction with practice 000 250 2650, shall be used as a layout and in
an effort to assure uniformity in the arrangement of the various vessel components. For
example, all ladders, manholes, platforms, level controllers and gauge glasses shall have
similar orientation whenever economically feasible.
1.0 Manholes refered to in practice 000 256 4055 shall be provided for access and
inspection of vessel ends, trays, bubble caps and internal piping as required.
1.1 Manhole orientation is dependent on tray arrangement, access* and
maintenance area for vessel. For access and maintenance considerations refer
to practice 000 250 2650
2.0 Reboiler nozzles shall be oriented by tray arrangement, type of Reboiler and/or
piping flexibility requirements.
3.0 Process nozzle orientations shall meet process requirements specified on the flow
diagrams. Elevations are generally as specified on the vessel drawings.
Consideration shall be given to minor nozzle elevational adjustments and
variations from the feed and draw-off methods shown. To provide the maximum
economical arrangement.
3.1 Reflux, feed and inter cooler nozzles shall be oriented relative to the tray
downcomers as shown.
4.0 Instrument and sample connections shall be oriented by tray and access
considerations.
4.1 Liquid temperature and sample connection points are normally taken in the
downcomer area of the tray below. If process conditions permit, sample or
temperature points may be varied one tray to allow maximum economy in the
ladder and platform arrangement.
4.2 Vapor temperature and sample connection points are normally located in the
area behind the downcomer.
4.3 Refer to practice 000 250 2650 paragraph 7.0 for access considerations.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
• Vessel Trim
Vessel trim is a term used to identify piping, instrument, and
valves connected to the following connections on vessels:
- Vents
- Drains
- Steam-out
- Relief valves
- Instruments including level controllers and gages
- Many of the internals and valves attached to nozzles of
vessels are very heavy. When maintenance is required,
they must be removed and lowered to grade.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.1.3 Ladders And Platforms (000.250.2650)

• Platforms are provided for access to manholes,
instruments, valves and equipment, and for crossovers
between ladders.
• The spacing of platforms served by a common ladder
shall be in even one-foot increments so as to match the
rung spacing on the ladders.
• The maximum straight run of ladder is 29'-6" from
H.P.F.S. (due to grade variation).
• Projection of nozzles extending through a top platform
must be such that the flange bolts are above the platform
level.
• Avoid supporting heavy piping loads from platforms
(Generally more than 500 pounds).
• Vessel attachments, such as ladder support clips,
platform support clips, vessel pipe supports, and guides
are generally installed by the vessel fabricator in the
shop.
• For ladder details (See Figure attached below), Note the
7" minimum toe clearance and 15o maximum ladder
slope.
• A ladder with and without a cage has clearance
requirements that a designer needs to consider in
orienting a vessel.
• The Vessel Group will furnish a ladder and platform
standard drawing for your use.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.1.4 The Vessel Davit:
Davit is a device
attached to the top of a
vessel to facilitate the
removal of vessel
internals and valves
and lowering them to
grade. The side of the
vessel used for raising
and lowering these
items is called the
"vessel drop zone".
A vessel davit is
usually provided in the
following cases:
• The vessel exceeds
a height of 30 feet
above grade.
• The vessel is not
accessible with an Austin-Western or equivalent mobile
crane.
• The vessel is not in a structure or grouped with other
vessels where other lifting facilities are provided.
6.10.1.4 Piping Through Platforms

• Piping passing through a platform has hole diameter
requirements. Normally, a hole large enough to let a
flange pass through it.
6.10.1.4 Valving @ Vessels

• Vents to atmosphere, operating valves, and nonoperating
valves elevated above 15'-0" from H.P.F.S. shall be
reachable from a ladder or platform. Vents and operating
valves under 15'-0" may be chain operated or accessible
from a permanent ladder. Nonoperating valves under 15'-
0" shall be accessible from a portable ladder.
• The number of passes a tray has is determined by the
number of downcomers it has. Single pass has 1
downcomer, 2 pass has 2, etc.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.2 Vessel Skirt Access Openings :

(See Figure below)
• The openings, ranging in size from 8" to 18" in diameter depending

upon the outside diameter of the skirt, are provided in the skirt of all
vessels 18" and larger. Only one is provided unless the vessel is 5'-6"
or larger in outside diameter. In these cases, two access openings,
preferably on opposite sides of the skirt, are provided. They should
be located so as not to interfere with piping, ladders, and equipment.
Avoid putting two access openings closer than 90o.
• Vessel Nameplates: Each vessel has an identifying nameplate affixed
to it at some conspicuous location. This should be on the operating
aisle side of the vessel.
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.3. Vessel Pipe Supports and Guides :

Most piping connecting to a vertical vessel needs to be supported and
guided. The support takes the weight of the pipe off of the vessel nozzle,
which is not designed to support a large load. The guides stabilize the
vertical runs of pipe, which sometimes are very long and require more
than one guide.
• On PWHT vessels extreme care needs to be taken in placing all piping
supports and guides, including small bore pipe (i.e. utilities and steam
tracing)
• The "L" dimension (back of pipe to outside of vessel) should be min. 1'-0"
and maximum of 1'-8" is recommended
• The support trunnion is attached to the pipe at a minimum distance from
the weld and rests on the vessel support. Note shims are required for
fabrication error.
• Pipe guides shall be provided as required according to Figure as under
Reference to Item 11.2 on Technical Practice 000.250.2650.
6.10.4. Clearances
• The following clearances are from the P.D.G. -Technical Practice
000.250.2040 "Arrangement of Equipment" and "Equipment and Pipeway
Clearances" section, and Attachment 3: "Space Allocation at Support
Columns."
• The minimum clearance for a forklift or similar equipment is 6'-0"
horizontal by 8'-0" vertical.
For portable manual equipment operation provide 3'-0" horizontal by 8'-
0" vertical
• The minimum clearance for mobile equipment access (hydraulic cranes,
trucks, etc.) is 10'-0" horizontal by 10'-0" vertical .
6.10.5. Vessel Skirt Height
The height of the vessel skirt is to determine with the help of N.P.S.H.
(Net Positive Suction Head). This is the height of a column of liquid
(head) necessary to keep the bottoms out pump suction primed.
Mobile equipment should be a consideration in vessel orientation. We can

calculate the vessel height as per example given below:
PIPING DEPARTMENT
PIPING DEPARTMENT
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.6 Steps To Accomplish Vertical Vessel Orientation:
• Update your flow diagram from "master."

• Compare vessel outline to flow diagram
• Vessel I.D.
• Tangent to tangent dimension.
• Minimum skirt height.
• Number of passes.
• N.L.L.
• Size, rating, and quantity of nozzles.
• Calculate elevations.
• Bottom tangent line based on minimum height on flow diagram.
• Process nozzles based on vessel outline.
• Verify or set instrument nozzles based on flow diagram and
instrument standard drawing.
• Determine which items require platforms or ladder access.
• Establish elevation ranges for platforms that must be.
• Draw a rough freehand elevation of vessel indicating platforms that
are definitely required.
• Now add ladders and any additional platforms that may be required
just to get up the vessel. Do a couple of different ways until you
have minimized the quantity of platforms and/or ladders.
• Study piping transposition.
• Draw several outlines of vessel to scale.
• On these outlines, do rough sketches of piping, nozzle orientations,
and ladder and platform arrangements. Combine and change
sketches for optimum design and piping logic. 0deg.will always be
due north.
• Commence actual study. You must be accurate and draw to scale.
However, do not worry about drafting quality, linework or lettering.
"Rough and dirty", but legible and complete
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.7 Vertical Vessel Orientation Guidelines Based On Fluor Daniel
• Economy of piping based on transposition

• Orientation of trays, downcomers, baffles in relation to nozzles and
manholes
• Pipe drop area towards pipeway
• Manholes in rear of vessel-swing away from down ladders
• Ladders in rear quadrants of vessel
• Level gages and controllers visible from operating aisle, and not affected
by reboiler return turbulence.
• TI, PI's and SC's in proper area of tray.
• Temperature instruments
• Pressure instruments
• Level instruments
• Steam outs
• Vents
• Valved nozzles
• Drains
• Water wash connections
• Spectacle blinds (vapor, pressure)
• Relief valves
PIPING DEPARTMENT
6.10.8 Things To Be Remembered
• Instruments are to be reachable by hand for observation, maintenance or
removal.
• LG & LC handwheels max. 7'-3" above grade or platform.
• Davit length to reach over all manholes, PSV's, vent valves and to extend
beyond top platform by 1'-6" to drop into clear maintenance drop area
(rear of vessel).
• Platform maximum of 30' apart and even elevations.
• Platform size minimum 2'-6" for good (clear) access and maintenance.
• Special supports minimized by using S.R. ells or slip-on flanges if
allowed by piping specs.
• "L" dimension of 12" bellow transition piece on coke bottle vessels.
• Control valve manifolds for reflux or feed lines located properly
considering vessel growth.
• Vessel guides are located to minimize number required, there not spaced
more than maximum distance apart and lowest guide is 25 pipe diameters
above turn to pipeway.
• Clearance to walk past obstruction 1'-6" fromoutside of pipe, flanges,
insulation.
• Skirt manways not blocked.
• Skirt vents located.
• Name plate visible from operating aisle, if possible.
• PSV Tailpipe or line to flare supported.
• Platforms used effectively: LG's, TI's, PI's, SC's, PSV's, Valves, accessible
from platforms if possible without making platform excessively large.
• No side step off to a common elevation platform on both sides of ladder,
unless allowed by job instructions.
• Level controller door will open 100o without obstruction.
• Ladders are 16" wide inside, 7" minimum toe clearance, 1'-0" maximum.
• Centerline of ladder to edge of step off is 1'-3".
• Platform used for step-off only at least 2'-6" wide at vessel, i.e. 1'-3" on
either side of ladder going up.
• North arrow indicated.
6.10.9 Clearances
• Minimum spacing between two vessels should be one large vessel,
diameter or 1500mm to 2000mm (Depending upon Project / Client's
requirements)
• Minimum 3.0m away from the piperack for forklift (face of dished end)
PIPING DEPARTMENT
PIPING DEPARTMENT
7.0 SQUAD CHECKING
• Lifting lug (Requirement)

• Overall size (¯ & Length TL/TL)
• Nozzles sizes & ratings / facing as P&ID & data sheets
• Location nozzles
• Elevation of nozzles including the manways
• Check the internal, if any
• Support height as per NPSH requirement
• Support type, no of bolts and locations
• Add note that for platform a ladder/ name plate till the finalization
• Fixed / sliding support location consulting with Stress
• Skirt height in case vertical vessel (NPSH Requirement)
• Check maintenance / operation requirements
• Check empty / operating / hydro weight in the drawing for civil requirement
• Mark up roller board P&ID as per vendor requirement and scope of supply
• No. of nozzles (as per P&ID, Data Sheet)
• Nozzle projections to clear insulation / platforms
• Bottom nozzle near the saddle to clear the foundation & saddle
Insulation support cleats / rings and thickness
7.1 Nozzle Projections
• 150 to 200mm from outside of vessel normally (depending on insulation

thickness)
• All vertical nozzles elevations should be given / guided by the vessel
• All horizontal nozzles project should be given / guided from TL's
• Try to give all nozzle ele /proj. in round figure i.e. multiple of 5mm from
their respective ref. lines
• Platform requirement must be finalised before giving the nozzle projection
• If there is a platform on top of the vessel then there should be sufficient gap
between nozzle and grating
PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.0 PIPING LAYOUT CONSIDERATION

PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.1 Horizontal Vessel - Piping
8.1.1 Inlet Piping

• Away from pipeway, vapor & liquid outlet
• As far as possible to reduce the turbulence and short circuiting
• Inlet piping should not run on vessel
• Isolation valve should be on nozzle (or near)
• Avoid pocketing
8.1.2 Outlet Piping
• Away from inlet
• Towards rack / pump
• Headroom (8') should be there on project specific
• Isolation valve should be on nozzle
• Avoid pocketing
• If there is headroom problem then vessel height can be raised by process
approval
8.1.3 Vapor Outlet

• Rating of vapor outlet should be towards piperack
• Vapor outlet valve should be accessible from permanent ladder / platform
• Vapor piping generally routed in to vessel
• Avoid pocketing
8.1.4 Instruments
• All the instruments valves should be operable from grade / platform /
ladder or portable ladder (project specific)
• Instrument nozzles should be located pipe way side
• Or away from inlet side to get the correct measurement
• Bridle cane is used to place two or more instrument nozzles on it. Instead
of putting individual nozzle on equipment
• LG should be on visible location
• LG & LT nozzle elevations should be 150mm below / above the min /
max. liquid level
PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.1.5 Trim Piping

• Locate drain nozzle as possible near the DF
• Instrument nozzles, vent and steam out nozzle etc.
8.1.6 Vessel Boot

• Boot should be opposite site of inlet
• There should be min. turbulence
• Max. distance apart from inlet
8.1.7 Vent
• Located opposite end of the vessel steam and inlet
8.1.8 Steam Out Connection

• Provide opposite side of vent
• Provide near the main way so that its valve and swing elbow can be operated on
the same platform
8.1.9 Manway
• Manway should be oriented access side
• Away from rack
• Generally 18" NB in diameter
• Many can be oriented opposite from rack top of the vessel or side of the vessel
• Up to 4.5m elevation of bottom of manway to platform is required
PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.2 Vertical Vessel / Tower - Piping
8.2.1 Reflux Piping

• Piping should be properly supported.
• Towards the source.
• Headroom to be kept proper if crossing any platform.
8.2.2 Feed Piping

• Based on trays location if any.
• Towards rack / pump
• Headroom (8') should be there on project specific
• Isolation valve should be on nozzle
• Piping should be flexible enough for nozzle load
requirement.
• If there is headroom problem then vessel height can be
raised by process approval
PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.2.3 Re-boiler piping
PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.2.4 Vapor Outlet
• Rating of vapor outlet should be towards piperack
• Vapor outlet valve should be accessible from permanent ladder / platform
• Vapor piping generally routed in to vessel
• Avoid pocketing
8.2.5 Instruments
• All the instruments valves should be operable from grade / platform /
ladder or portable ladder (project specific)
• Instrument nozzles should be located such that it will be easily accessible
for correct measurement
• Bridle can be used to place two or more instrument nozzles on it
• LG should be on visible location as close to ladder and platforms.
• LG & LT nozzle elevations should be 150mm below / above the min /
max. liquid level
PIPING DEPARTMENT
PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.2.6 Trim Piping

• Locate drain nozzle as possible near the DF
• Inline instrument PI’s , PG’s, TI’s, vent and steam out nozzle etc.
8.2.7 Vent
• Located on top of the vessel or any safe location as required.
8.2.8 Drain Piping

PIPING DEPARTMENT
8.2.9 Steam Out Connection

• Provide on first platform near the bottom tan line.
• Provide near the main way so that its valve and swing elbow can
be operated on the same platform
• Near side of the main header and flexible.
• Separately supported from the vessel.
9.0 OUTPUTS
• Nozzle orientations and ladder and platforms orientations
• Vessel support clips locations and orientation
• Squad checks of vessel and other discipline drawings.
• Dressed vessel package
• Stress and final iso’s
PIPING DEPARTMENT
10.0 SUPPORTS
• Piping should be supported properly as per the figure attached above.
• First support should be resting support as mention below in the figure.

• Second support will be guide support that will be clipped from the vessel. The
distance between resting and the guide support is about the 4-5 L (L dimension
is varies for size of the piping).
• Avoid supporting from the platforms.
• If supports required from grade go for it
PIPING DEPARTMENT
11.0 ISOMETRIC CHECKING
• Final / latest P&ID - compare your copy with roller board before starting checking
• Final / master copy of vendor drawing
• Check nozzle elevation, size and rating
• Check BOM, FW location, support location and type of support with stress sketch.
• Check routing following in DRV
• Check supports should be properly placed on structure / MPS steel before releasing
the isometric
• Check valve accessibility and operability
• Spool PC length as per JIM (ship box size)
• Check job book for correctness of all data / modeling at various stages.
Reference:
1. Process & Utility Piping Design, Layout & Drawing – practice 000.250.50001,
000.250.2650,000,250.2651 and 000.250.2660
2. Instrument Piping – practice – 000.250.2701, 2702, 2705, 2710, 2711, 2720, 2730,
2740, 2750, 2752, 2790 & lesson 3 of Piping design layout training
3. Piping Design Layout Training – Lesson 1,3, 4 and 7.
4. Valve accessibility and clearances – practice 000.250.2031
5. Process Plant Layout and piping Design (Ed Bausbacher & Roger Hunt)
PIPING DEPARTMENT
DOUBTS AND QUERIES ARE

WELCOME
HAPPY LEARNING
PIPING DEPARTMENT
THANKS

Vessels & Column Tower Piping

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Vessels & Column Tower Piping

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FLUOR NEW DELHI OFFICE

VESSELS & COLUMN /

2.0 PROCESS OVERVIEW

3.0 TYPES OF TOWER

4.0 VESSEL/TOWER PARTS AND INTERNALS

5.0 NOZZLE NOMENCLATURE PER FLUOR PRCTICE

6.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATION (EQUIPMENT LAYOUT)

7.0 SQUAD CHECKING

8.0 PIPING DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

10.0 SUPPORTING ARRANGEMENT

11.0 ISOMETRIC CHECKING

1.0 INTRODUCTION OF VESSELS AND TANKS

1.3 Nomenclature (General)

1.3.2 Storage Vessel & Storage Tank : Storing liquids

1.1.1 Vertical Vessel: Longitudinal axis is in vertical position.

• Reflux Drums • Feed Surge Drums

2.0 PROCESS OVERVIEW

2.1 Batch Shell

2.2 Continuous Shell

2.4 Liquid And Vapor Flow

3.0 TYPES OF TOWERS

4.0 VESSEL/TOWER PARTS AND INTERNALS

4.1 Bubble-cap trays:

b) Need not be installed level

4.2 Valve trays:

4.3 Sieve Trays:

4.4 Distributor trays:

4.5 Chimney trays:

6.0 EQUIPMENT LAYOUT CONSIDERATION

6.1 Vessel Orientation/Location

Vessel Orientation will determine the location and orientation of:

• Update your flow diagram from "Master".

6.7 Nozzle Orientation

Generally, vessel and nozzle orientation should be as follows:

Normal shell thickness vessels

Thin shell thickness vessels

Vessel orientation will determine the location and orientation of:

a) Piping equipment connections

6.8 Nozzle Projections

6.9 Ladders And Platforms

6.10 Vertical Vessel/Tower

6.10.1.1 Manhole/ Trays: Required for accessing the internal piping,

6.10.1.2 Nozzle Orientation

• Feed Nozzles: For orientation ref. above sketch. Feeds are

Factors affecting feed internal design:

- Mixing: The internal piping must be arranged so as to obtain the

- Temperature Difference: If the fresh feed is directed against the

- All downcomers for trays with the same number of passes

• Reboiler Nozzle Orientation

6.10.1.3 Ladders And Platforms (000.250.2650)

6.10.1.4 Piping Through Platforms

6.10.1.4 Valving @ Vessels

6.10.2 Vessel Skirt Access Openings :

• The openings, ranging in size from 8" to 18" in diameter depending

6.10.3. Vessel Pipe Supports and Guides :

Reference to Item 11.2 on Technical Practice 000.250.2650.

6.10.5. Vessel Skirt Height

Mobile equipment should be a consideration in vessel orientation. We can

6.10.6 Steps To Accomplish Vertical Vessel Orientation:

• Update your flow diagram from "master."

6.10.7 Vertical Vessel Orientation Guidelines Based On Fluor Daniel

• Economy of piping based on transposition

7.0 SQUAD CHECKING