Pipeline skids

Types of Pipeline Skids

A pipeline skid is a piece of equipment or assembly of equipment mounted on a frame used to handle and transport products efficiently. Pipeline skids are commonly used in production, oil and gas, and construction industries. They are used to handle flow lines, liquid lines, gas lines, mixed gas, lift gas, and gathering lines. Pipeline skids can be customized according to specific conditions and requirements. They can also be manufactured in different sizes.

Pipeline skids can be broadly classified based on their function:

• Production and Separation Skids

  These skids are mainly used to gather and separate fluids such as gas, oil, and water. They usually come with measuring tools and customized features based on specific production-related needs.

• Compressor and Pump Skids

  These pipeline skids are designed to hold and protect compressors, pumps, or other driving machinery. Pump skids are commonly used to transport and handle liquids, while compressor skids are used for handling and compressing gases.

• Measurement and Monitoring Skids

  These types of skids are used for measuring and monitoring fluid flow. They are equipped with sensors, measurement devices, and monitoring systems to ensure accurate measurement and monitoring of fluid flow.

• Utility Skids

  Utility skids are designed for general-purpose applications and can handle multiple functions. These skids can be customized according to specific needs and may include features like storage, cooling systems, and electrical systems.

According to the material they are made from, pipeline skids can be further categorized into plastic and steel pipeline skids.

• Steel Pipeline Skids

  Steel pipeline skids offer flexibility and strength. They protect the equipment and allow easy transport and storage of materials. In addition, sheaths offer a cost-effective solution that requires minimal maintenance which provides durability against impact and wear.

• Plastic Pipeline Skids

  Plastic pipeline skids are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and are usually designed as non-marring products that won't damage or mar the surface. Furthermore, plastic pipeline skids are chemical-resistant, lighter-weight options available that allows for easy movement.

Specifications and maintenance of pipeline skids

Specifications

• Materials: The materials of pipeline skids may vary according to the needs of industries and applications. Common materials include steel, stainless steel, carbon steel, and so on. Materials with different properties can meet the requirements of strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion, etc.
• Sizes: The sizes of pipeline skids are customized. Their lengths, widths, and heights can be adapted to specific requirements, fitting snugly to pipelines or equipment. The dimensions of pipeline skids are determined according to load capacity, handling needs, and the dimensions of the pipelines.
• Weight capacity: The weight capacity of pipeline skids is subject to different structural designs, materials, and dimensions. Generally speaking, the weight capacity of pipeline skids for pipelines in industrial production and engineering is comparatively higher, which can meet the carrying needs of heavy equipment or materials.
• Design features: Pipeline skids usually have some unique design features, such as bolted fastening, which can stably fix the pipeline or the equipment onto the skid; or movable casters, which are convenient for sliding and moving.

Maintenance

• Clean: Regularly clean the surface of the pipeline skid to get rid of dirt, grease, etc. Use water and detergent to wash them off and make sure the pipeline skid is tidy and sanitary.
• Check fasteners: Check the fasteners such as screws or bolts on the pipeline skid regularly to ensure they have not loosened or fallen off. If there is any loosening or falling off, re-tighten them to guarantee the stability and safety of the pipeline skid.
• Lubrication: For moving parts, such as rollers or bearings, of the pipeline skid, lubrication should be added on a regular basis to make sure they work smoothly and flexibly.
• Corrosion prevention: If the material of the pipeline skid is metal, it is significant to prevent corrosion. Regularly check the surface of the skid for signs of corrosion or damage, and promptly repair or coat anti-corrosion paints to avoid further deterioration.
• Avoid overload: When using pipeline skids, it is necessary to pay attention to avoiding overload to ensure that their bearing capacity is within the specified range.
• Environmental control: Pay attention to controlling the use environment of the pipeline skid, avoid using it in excessively high, low, or humid places to avoid damaging the equipment.

Scenarios of pipeline skids

Pipeline skids have various applications in different industries that use them to assist with machinery. Here are some sectors that typically use pipeline skids and how they use them:

• Oil and gas supply chains

  Pipeline skids are foundational units commonly seen in the supply chain of the oil and gas industry. They're used to group together crucial machinery like valves, compressors, and pumps, forming the spine of pipe support systems. Beyond just holding equipment steady, pipeline skids let maintenance crews reach important machinery easily, cutting down on repair times and boosting productivity levels. What's more, pipeline skids are designed to absorb shocks and make noise minimal, protecting delicate instruments from any potential harm or disturbance.

• Mining industry

  The mining industry relies heavily on pipeline skids to hold up processing and extraction equipment. Just like in oil and gas, these skids make machinery more accessible, speeding up maintenance and minimizing downtime. With pipeline skids, teams can promptly attend to routine checks and any unforeseen repairs. The durability of pipeline skids is put to the test in the mining sector. They must be tough enough to handle the heavy-duty gear typical of mining operations while also standing strong against the harsh conditions often found underground and at remote sites.

How to choose pipeline skids

• Production capacity

  When choosing pipeline skids, it is crucial to know the production capacity. They can decide what size or kind of pipeline system can be handled. It is vital to ensure that the skid can deal with the required output and meet the business needs.

• Materials

  Pipeline skids are made up of materials that are easily cleaned and sanitized, such as stainless steel. Additionally, the material needs to be corrosion-resistant in order to withstand any harsh chemicals that may be present in the fluid being transported through the pipelines.

• Transportability

  Transportability refers to how easily and quickly something can be moved from one place to another. Pipeline skids are usually designed for easy transport and often include features like lift rings, fork pockets, and optional dollies or wheels.

• Codes and standards

  A pipeline skid's design and construction must adhere to applicable codes and standards. This will ensure the quality of the pipeline. Also, it will make sure that it is safe to use and compliant with regulations.

• Cost

  The cost of the pipeline skid is also an important factor in the decision-making process. Buyers need to consider their budget and the return on investment they expect from the pipeline skid's use in their operations.

Q&A

Q1 What are skids in the pipeline?

A1 Pipeline skids refer to supportive structures used in pipeline systems, also known as pipeline supports, hangers, or brackets. They allow for the controlled movement, placement, and support of the piping system.

Q2 What is the purpose of pipeline skid support?

A2 Pipeline skid supports are critical in ensuring the integrity and stability of piping systems. Their primary function is to provide uniform support to pipes, thereby preventing deformation and damage. Additionally, skids allow for controlled pipeline positioning, simplifying installation and maintenance. They accommodate thermal expansion and contraction, promoting flexibility in the system. By minimizing pipe weight on underlying surfaces, skid supports reduce indentation and damage. Furthermore, they offer protection against vibrations and shocks, preserving equipment longevity. Through these essential roles, pipeline skid supports contribute significantly to the durability and functionality of piping systems in various applications.

Q3 What materials are used for pipeline skids?

A3 The material choices for the pipeline skids are usually influenced by their intended uses. Steel is the most common material used for skid pipelines because of its high strength and ability to bear heavy loads. Stainless steel pipeline skids are widely used in industries where corrosion needs to be resisted, like the food and chemical industries. Carbon steel serves as a suitable option, providing good strength and durability at a relatively lower cost.

Q4 What factors affect the cost of pipeline skids?

A4 Many factors can influence the cost of pipeline skids, such as the material. The size of the pipeline skids also contributes to the overall cost. In addition, the design complexity of the pipeline skids can have an impact on the costs. If there is any customization requirement, this can also increase the costs. Another factor is the load capacity and thickness, where higher load capacities may require thicker materials, increasing the overall costs.