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.
After Self Assessment, which I discussed in the post Protect Your Fluid Systems: First Step to Winterize, I recommend professional winterization-specific assessment by outside experts.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:
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:
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.
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.
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.