Protect Your Fluid Systems: Second Step to Winterize

Winterization in Alberta's industrial plants requires specific expertise because of the advanced technical challenges involved. Inspectors need an in-depth understanding of fluid dynamics affected by temperature changes and the intricacies of system components like traced tubing and steam traps.

Alberta's harsh winters pose a significant risk to industrial plants. Drastic temperature changes can harm fluid systems, increasing the likelihood of system failures and forced shutdowns. This makes effective winterization essential to protect against extreme temperatures.

Why specialized knowledge matters

Winterization in Alberta's industrial plants requires detailed and specific expertise because of the advanced technical challenges involved. Let's look at a couple of examples:

Traced tubing technology

This is a cornerstone of effective winterization. Tubing exposed to sub-freezing temperatures requires more than just insulation; it needs active heating elements to maintain fluid flow and prevent freezing. There are two primary types of traced tubing:

• Electrical tracing: Preferred for long distances, it features self-regulation to adjust heat output based on temperature changes and can be controlled semi-autonomously.
• Steam/glycol tracing: Used where electricity is less accessible, it offers variations from light to heavy tracing depending on the required heat output. Steam tracing, although more efficient, can be more costly and requires meticulous installation to prevent heat loss and ensure effective operation.

Steam traps and condensate management

Steam traps's main function is to keep energy transfer as efficient as possible. Failed closed or open traps can result in less efficient heat transfer. Effective placement and maintenance of steam traps is critical, requiring precise knowledge to ensure they are installed at correct intervals and locations, particularly before valves and in vertical pipe shifts.

Partnering with experts

Given the complex and critical nature of winterization, it benefits plant managers and other stakeholders to partner with specialized experts. I suggest Swagelok Winterization Advisory Services, and I suggest having us conduct an inspection in June or July.

Your Swagelok Field Advisor has met high standards for fluid system engineering solutions training and certification. They have worked with hundreds of companies like yours in and around Edmonton, Drayton Valley, and Fort McMurray.

With decades of experience examining Alberta plants' fluid systems, we can help catch leaks and failed components that could undermine performance during freezing temperatures. Then, based on the inspection findings, we can recommend maintenance and repair procedures.

Our reports are packed with details, photos, examples, advice, and best practices. And you get as much time as you need with your Field Advisor to understand our recommendations. The overall goal is to offer tailored advice on the best practices for winterization, ensuring operational stability and safety throughout the coldest months. Reach out to our knowledgeable representatives today. Tel: 780-437-0640.

Take our Winterization Checklist while you're here

If you're not sure where to start, I suggest downloading our free Winterization Checklist. It helps with thinking through risk factors and winterization best practices.

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