Width pipe racks

This chapter explains what is required to finalize the pipe rack width, number of levels and elevations, and bent spacing and addresses pipe flexibility and access and maintenance concerns for each item located within the pipe rack area. 

Setting the width of the pipe rack may then proceed. With the routing diagram, a dimensioned cross section is developed at the bent that will carry the most piping, which is bent No 12 in the example shown in Exhibit 11-4. Usually, pipe radcs carry process lines on the lower level or levels, and the utility lines on the top level. Instrument and electrical trays are integrated on the utility level if space permits or on a separate level above all pipe levels. Any pipe rack design should provide for 20% future growth. When... 

After the bent spacing, rack width, and number of levels are established, the elevation of the levels must be set. As discussed in Chapter 2, the plant layout designer must know the minimum clearances to set the elevations. Plant roads, type of mobile equipment, and equipment located beneath the pipe rack can influence the pipe rack elevation. Usually, space is allowed below the pipe rack for equipment, with a minimum clearance of 10 ft (3,050 mm). 

A pipe rack composite is shown in Exhibit 11-5. This view highlights features mentioned previously and clarifies additional considerations. For example, the width of the access way is determined by the space needed to maintain the equipment located at grade below the pipe rack. For process or cost reasons, shell and tube exchangers may be located under a pipe rad in certain process units. Allowances must be made tc... 

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