Unit 3547 - Mechanical Piping Fabrication

1. Introduction to Mechanical Piping Fabrication

• Definition and scope
• Importance in industries such as oil & gas, chemical, HVAC, and manufacturing
• Common applications and examples
• Role in overall mechanical systems and plant operations

2. Types of Piping Materials

• Overview of materials used in piping fabrication
• Steel (carbon steel, stainless steel)
  • Properties, advantages, limitations
• Copper
  • Properties, applications, pros and cons
• PVC and other plastics
  • Properties, usage scenarios, chemical resistance
• Other materials (cast iron, aluminum, composites)
• Criteria for material selection (pressure, temperature, corrosion resistance)

3. Piping Fabrication Tools and Equipment

• Essential tools overview
  • Pipe cutters (types and usage)
  • Threaders and threading machines
  • Welding machines (arc, MIG, TIG)
  • Pipe bending tools and machines
  • Measuring and marking tools
• Safe and effective tool handling procedures
• Maintenance and inspection of tools

4. Piping Layout and Design

• Fundamentals of piping layout
• Reading and interpreting blueprints
• Understanding schematics and isometric drawings
• Planning an efficient piping system
  • Flow considerations
  • Space optimization
  • Accessibility for maintenance
• Design best practices and common standards

5. Pipe Joining Techniques

• Overview of pipe joining methods
• Welding techniques
  • Types of welds (butt, socket, fillet)
  • Procedures and safety
• Soldering and brazing
  • Differences, applications, and processes
• Mechanical joints
  • Flanges, couplings, clamps
• Selection criteria for joining methods

6. Pipe Support and Hanger Systems

• Purpose of pipe supports and hangers
• Types of supports
  • Rigid, spring, roller, and sway braces
• Types of hangers
  • Clevis, beam clamps, trapeze hangers
• Installation methods and positioning
• Load calculations and stress considerations

7. Quality Control and Inspection in Piping Fabrication

• Importance of quality assurance
• Inspection techniques
  • Visual inspection
  • Non-destructive testing (NDT) methods (radiography, ultrasonic, dye penetrant)
• Testing procedures
  • Hydrostatic testing
  • Pneumatic testing
• Documentation and compliance with industry standards

8. Pipe Coating and Protection

• Need for pipe coating and corrosion protection
• Types of coatings
  • Epoxy, polyurethane, zinc coatings
• Linings
  • Cement mortar, rubber linings
• Corrosion protection techniques
  • Cathodic protection
• Application methods and inspection

9. Safety Practices in Piping Fabrication

• Hazard identification in piping fabrication processes
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) requirements
• Safety regulations and standards (OSHA, ANSI)
• Safe handling of tools and materials
• Emergency procedures and accident prevention