Pipe racks and pipe bridges – the backbone of the plant

A pipe rack is a series of portal bents – two columns joined by beams at each pipe level – connected by longitudinal struts and braced in selected bays. Pipes run along the levels, with large and hot lines on the outer positions, and cable trays usually on the top level. Bent spacing follows the allowable pipe spans, typically around six metres.

Racks carry pipe weight, contents and test water, thermal anchor and friction forces, wind and seismic actions. The structural design and the pipe support layout come from the plant designer; we fabricate them, fit the supports and deliver the rack as members or as modules.