C-P Systems

Process, Mechanical, and Piping Engineering Glossary

Search through our list of the most crucial engineering glossary terms below. Don’t get left in the dark with industry terminology. This is your one-stop shop to refference the most popular terms.

All the Terms You Need, In One Place.

Whether you’re new to the field or looking to deepen your expertise, this glossary is designed to help you quickly find clear explanations and practical definitions. It will enhance your understanding of technical terms and support and refresh your engineering knowledge.

Use this page as a reference to build confidence in your knowledge and stay informed as you explore everything C-P Systems has to offer.

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

R

S

T

U

V

W

X

Y

Z

#

A

mechanical device that provides the force to operate a valve automatically. It converts an external energy source…

A mechanical device used to mix fluids, promote heat transfer, or suspend solids. Selection depends on fluid properties…

American Society of Mechanical Engineers, an organization that develops internationally recognized codes and standards…

 The acceptable limits of positional deviation between connected or rotating components in mechanical and process systems….

the maximum acceptable metal loss per year that a component can experience while maintaining safe and reliable operation. …

maximum stress a material or component can safely withstand under operating conditions without failure…

American National Standards Institute, an organization that oversees and coordinates the development of voluntary consensus standards…

API

American Petroleum Institute, an organization that develops standards and recommended practices for the operation of piping systems.

The systematic evaluation & designation of areas where explosive atmospheres exist, determining the type of equipment required…

Type of pipe support designed to completely restrain movement at a specific point. By fixing the pipe in place…

the formal process of transferring responsibility for piping systems, equipment, and associated documentation…

digital representation of a piping system or facility that reflects how it was actually constructed, including all modifications and deviations….

Accurate records of existing facility conditions captured through laser scanning, or field walk-downs, used to update drawings…

Refers to the organization that develops widely recognized codes and standards for the design, construction, and inspection of piping systems…

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers code governing process piping design, materials, fabrication, inspection, and testing…

(American Society for Testing and Materials) refers to the organization that develops material standards for pipes, fittings, valves, & components…

Storage or process vessel designed to operate at atmospheric pressure (or very close to it) rather than under high pressure…

AWS

AWS stands for the American Welding Society, an organization that develops standards and codes for welding practices…

B

Ball valve is a quarter-turn valve that uses a spherical disc (ball) with a hole through the center to start, stop, or regulate fluid flow…

Bench Scale

refers to a small, laboratory- or pilot-scale system used to test or measure fluid handling, flow characteristics, or process parameters…

Reference point used to ensure consistent measurement, alignment, or calibration of equipment, or piping systems.

A comprehensive listing of all components, materials, and quantities required to construct a piping system, serving as the critical link…

Solid flange used to close the end of a pipe, valve, or vessel opening. It provides a tight seal to stop flow & allow maintenance…

specialized valve assembly that isolates a section of a piping system (block) and allows trapped fluid to be safely vented (bleed)…

Vessel used to collect and safely discharge hot water, steam, or other fluids from boilers, pressure vessels, or piping systems…

Moves air or gas through a piping system at relatively low pressure but high volume. It is commonly used for ventilation…

Pump installed in a piping system to increase the pressure of a fluid, ensuring adequate flow and pressure at the point of use.

 the process of using hydraulic pressure to apply a precise axial load directly to a stud bolt, stretching it to the correct preload before seating the nut…

 the rotational force a technician applies to a nut or bolt head to stretch the stud and generate the clamping load that holds a flanged joint together…

the sudden, rapid failure of a material under stress with little or no plastic deformation beforehand. Brittle fracture gives almost no warning…

is any engineering or construction project that takes place within or alongside an existing, operational facility…

a secondary pipe run that diverts process flow around a piece of equipment, instrument, or valve….

commonly called a BOD, is a technical document that records the design criteria, assumptions, codes, and constraints that govern…

pump installed in a piping system to increase the pressure of a fluid, ensuring adequate flow and pressure at the point of use.

Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, published by ASME. It is a set of standards and regulations governing  boilers…

Threaded pipe fittings used to connect pipes of different sizes by reducing or enlarging the bore. They allow adaptation…

A welding method where pipe ends are prepared and welded together end-to-end, providing the strongest and most reliable joint…

Quarter-turn valve that uses a rotating disc to start, stop, or regulate fluid flow in a pipe. When the disc is parallel to the flow, the valve is open…

C

quick-connect coupling used to join hoses or pipes without the need for tools. It consists of a male adapter and a female coupler…

Can Pump

Sealless, canned motor pump in which the motor and pump are enclosed within a single, hermetically sealed casing…

Pipe fittings used to close the end of a pipe. They provide a tight seal to stop fluid flow temporarily or permanently and used for maintenance…

A compact, mobile, prefabricated system used for batch operations, lab-scale production, or utilities. Designed for flexibility…

The formation and collapse of vapor bubbles in a fluid when the local pressure drops below its vapor pressure…

Moves fluid by converting rotational kinetic energy into pressure energy using a spinning impeller.

quick-connect coupling used to join hoses or pipes for the transfer of fluids or gases. It features a push-to-connect or twist-lock mechanism…

layer of corrosion-resistant or wear-resistant material applied to the surface of a pipe, vessel, or equipment. It protects the underlying base metal…

The automated process of identifying spatial conflicts between piping and other components in 3D models, preventing mistakes…

mechanical joint used to connect two pipes or a pipe to a fixture by compressing a ring (ferrule) onto the pipe as the nut is tightened…

increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume. It is commonly used in piping systems to transport, store, or process gases…

Software tools that enable creation, modification, and optimization of piping designs through digital drafting and modeling…

A type of heat exchanger used to condense vapors into liquids by removing latent heat. Commonly used in distillation…

areas that are enclosed or partially enclosed, not designed for continuous occupancy, and have limited entry or exit points…

venting device installed on a tank or vessel to allow vapor to escape or enter while minimizing product loss. It protects the system…

Constructibility

The design characteristic that ensures engineering systems can be efficiently built, installed, and maintained in real-world field conditions…

The full package of drawings, specs, and instructions issued to contractors to build systems per engineering intent.

valve that regulates the flow, pressure, or level of fluid in a piping system by adjusting its position in response to signals from a controller…

The design characteristic that ensures engineering systems can be efficiently built, installed, and maintained in real-world field conditions…

Additional wall thickness specified in piping and vessel design to account for material loss due to corrosion over the system’s design life…

Fittings used to connect two pipes together in a straight line. They provide a secure, leak-resistant joint and can be permanen…

CRN

Canadian Registration Number, a unique identifier issued by Canadian regulatory authorities for pressure vessels, etc…

used to control the flow of extremely low-temperature fluids such as liquid nitrogen, oxygen, LNG, or hydrogen…

CSA

Canadian Standards Association, an organization that develops standards and codes for piping safety, performance, and reliability…

D

flow control device installed in ducting or gas piping systems to regulate, direct, or stop the flow of air, flue gas, or other gases…

device or vessel used to separate liquids from solids, or two immiscible liquids of different densities, typically by gravity or centrifugal force…

Design Coordination

Ensuring alignment between disciplines such as mechanical, structural, and controls engineering. Prevents interferences and delays…

A formal milestone where changes to design are locked to proceed with procurement and construction. Helps prevent scope creep and rework…

Design Review

Systematic evaluation of engineering and piping designs by multidisciplinary teams to verify technical accuracy and constructibility…

Design-Build (DB)

A project delivery method in which the engineering and construction responsibilities are held by a single contractor…

The primary point of contact responsible for design intent, coordination with contractors, and resolving field questions…

Safety device installed in piping systems carrying flammable gases or vapors to stop and extinguish a detonation flame front. It prevents explosions from propagating through the piping

diaphragm pump is a positive displacement pump that uses a flexible diaphragm, driven mechanically or by air, to move fluids…

Protective device used with pressure instruments, consisting of a flexible diaphragm that isolates the sensing element from the process fluid…

valve that uses a flexible diaphragm pressed against a weir or seat to start, stop, or throttle fluid flow…

The practice of measuring and verifying critical dimensions of equipment and piping during fabrication…

Pipe installed inside a vessel or tank that extends from the top connection down into the liquid. It is used to introduce, withdraw, fluids…

A separation process that uses differences in boiling points to separate components of liquid mixtures through controlled vaporization…

pipe construction featuring an inner pipe enclosed by an outer pipe, with an insulating or protective space between them…

a system or device used to remove dust, particulate matter, and contaminants from air or gas streams in industrial piping systems…

non-destructive testing (NDT) method used to detect surface cracks, porosity, or defects in metals, welds, or components…

E

Pipe fittings used to change the direction of flow in a piping system, typically at 45° or 90° angles. They are essential for routing pipelines…

Engineering calculations that account for all energy inputs, outputs, and requirements in a process system, enabling proper utility design…

Engineering Standards

Industry codes, specifications, and best practices that govern the design, construction, and operation of industrial systems for safety…

The arrangement of process equipment in a facility, optimized for safety clearances, maintenance access, efficient flow, and field constructibility…

Engineering calculations to determine the appropriate size and capacity of process equipment based on flow rates and residence times…

Flexible connections designed to absorb thermal expansion, vibration, and misalignment in piping systems while maintaining pressure integrity…

Electrical equipment designed to contain internal explosions & prevent ignition of explosive atmospheres through robust enclosures…

F

Flux-Cored Arc Welding, a welding process that uses a tubular wire electrode filled with flux. The flux generates shielding gas and slag…

Engineering analysis to evaluate the technical and economic viability of proposed industrial projects or process modifications…

The process of confirming existing conditions through physical measurement, laser scanning, or visual inspection to gather data…

Welding performed on-site due to access limitations or design constraints. Increases cost and complexity, and is often minimized through design…

The pressure-rated enclosure that holds a process filter element. Designed to allow maintenance access and safe operation…

A separation process that removes solid particles from liquids or gases using porous media and pressure differentials…

Components used to connect, redirect, reduce, or terminate pipes within a piping system. Common types include elbows, tees, reducers…

Safety device installed in piping systems carrying flammable gases or vapors to stop and extinguish a flame front before it can propagate further…

The mating surface area of a flange that comes into contact with a gasket to form a leak-tight seal when two flanges are bolted together…

The surface texture or smoothness of the flange face that contacts the gasket. The finish is critical for creating a tight & reliable seal…

Safety device installed in piping systems carrying flammable gases or vapors to stop and extinguish a flame front before it can propagate further…

project planning and design process performed in the early stages of a piping or plant project to define scope, requirements, risks, and costs before detailed engineering begins….

Short section of flexible tubing, usually made from stainless steel, PTFE, or reinforced rubber, used in piping systems to absorb vibration…

weighing device installed at floor level, often flush-mounted or low-profile, used to measure the weight of materials, or process equipment…

Simplified schematic representations showing the sequence and relationship of equipment and piping in a process system…

The intended direction of fluid movement through piping systems, critical for proper installation of directional components…

An instrument installed in piping systems to measure the rate of fluid (liquid, gas, or steam) flow.  located based on process requirements…

type of valve installed in piping systems to regulate, limit, or control the flow rate of fluids (liquids, gases, or steam).  Based on the process medium…

The engineering principles governing liquid and gas flow in pipes, vessels, and process equipment, essential for proper system design…

special type of valve installed at the bottom of tanks, vessels, or reactors to enable complete and smooth discharge of fluids, slurries, or sediments without dead space.

A comprehensive engineering study that minimizes project uncertainty and leads to better controlled project costs by defining project scope…

G

mechanical sealing elements placed between two mating flanges or connections in a piping system to prevent leakage of fluids…

 linear-motion valve used in piping systems to start or stop fluid flow by raising or lowering a flat or wedge-shaped gate between two seats…

positive displacement pump used in piping systems to move fluids by trapping them between the meshing gears and the pump casing….

metal pipe whose interior surface is coated with a layer of fused glass to provide corrosion resistance against aggressive chemicals….

a linear-motion valve used in piping systems to start, stop, or regulate fluid flow. It consists of a movable disc (or plug) that moves perpendicular…

H

A systematic risk assessment methodology used to identify potential hazards and operating problems in industrial processes…

piece of equipment in piping systems designed to transfer heat between two or more fluids without mixing them.  Selected based on flow rates…

The engineering of equipment used to transfer heat between process streams. Design considerations include thermal duty and pressure drop…

Heating systems applied to piping and equipment to prevent freezing, maintain fluid temperature, or provide temperature control…

The engineering principles governing thermal energy movement in industrial processes, affecting equipment design and energy efficiency…

Color imaging technique used with laser scanners to capture detailed visual information across varying light conditions…

Connections installed at piping system high points to remove trapped air during filling and operation, essential for proper system performance…

Concept or component used in piping design and engineering. It plays a key role in the safe, efficient, and reliable design of piping systems….

High Dynamic Range (HDR) Imaging

Color imaging technique used with laser scanners to capture detailed visual information across varying light conditions…

I

The engineering discipline focused on optimizing complex systems, processes, and organizations in manufacturing environments…

clean, dry, and oil-free compressed air supplied to operate pneumatic instruments, control valves, and other automation devices in a piping system…

Devices and systems used to measure, monitor, and control process variables including sensors, transmitters, controllers, and final control elements…

Information about the strength of laser pulse returns captured during scanning, useful for distinguishing different material types…

Engineering approach for designing electrical equipment and systems that are incapable of releasing sufficient electrical or thermal energy…

A three-dimensional representation of piping systems drawn in two dimensions, showing true lengths and enabling accurate fabrication…

J

A tank or reactor with an external jacket used for heating or cooling via circulating fluids. Common in temperature-sensitive reactions…

K

type of linear-motion valve used in piping systems to start, stop, or throttle the flow of thick, viscous, or slurry fluids…

vessel installed in piping systems to separate liquid droplets, condensate, or solids from gas or vapor streams. Used to protect equipment from damage…

L

type of flange where a stub end is welded to the pipe and the flange slides over the stub end, bolted to mate with another flange….

High-precision 3D measurement technology that captures millions of data points to create accurate digital representations of existing facilities…

The process of stitching together multiple point cloud scans into a unified coordinate system. Critical for scan accuracy…

Laser Welding

high-precision welding process used in piping systems to join metals by focusing a concentrated laser beam on the joint, which fuses the materials…

 Instrument used in piping and vessel systems to visually or electronically indicate the liquid level inside tanks, vessels, or process equipment…

device installed in piping systems or vessels to detect and signal when a liquid reaches a specific level. Used for overflow protection…

Technology using laser pulses to measure distances and create detailed 3D maps by timing how long light takes to return from surfaces…

A piping specification designation that groups similar service conditions, defining materials, pressure ratings, and component requirements…

Unique alphanumeric identifier assigned to each piping line that conveys service, size, specification, and sequence information…

precision sensor used to measure force or weight in process systems.  Load cells monitor structural loads on supports…

Positive displacement pump that transfers fluids using two or more rotating lobes. It provides a steady, gentle flow…

Mechanical, permanent pipe connections designed to join metal tubing and piping without welding, threading, or flaring…

Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) is used to ensure that machinery is properly isolated from energy sources during maintenance or repair…

Connections installed at piping system low points to remove accumulated liquids, condensate, or contaminants, essential for maintenance…

M

Non-destructive testing (NDT) method used to detect surface  defects in ferromagnetic materials & structural components…

 Non-intrusive flow measurement device used to measure the flow rate of conductive liquids making them ideal for corrosive or slurry-based fluids…

A design philosophy that ensures long-term equipment maintainability is prioritized in engineering decisions. Includes access for service…

Engineering calculations that account for all material inputs and outputs in a process system, ensuring conservation of mass…

MSS

MSS, short for Manufacturers Standardization Society, establishes essential technical standards in the piping design  industry

Engineering calculations that account for all material inputs, outputs, and energy requirements in industrial processes…

Engineering considerations for the safe handling, storage, and processing of hazardous chemicals and materials based on their properties…

The engineering process of choosing appropriate pipe, fitting, and component materials based on fluid compatibility, temperature, pressure…

Mesh Generation

The process of converting point cloud data into triangulated surface models that can be used for 3D printing and analysis…

durable piping material made from metals such as carbon steel, stainless steel, copper, or alloy steels, Used in industrial process systems……

The engineering process of choosing appropriate pipe, fitting, and component materials based on fluid compatibility, temperature, pressure…

A project strategy that segments systems into self-contained modules (skids or carts) for fabrication off-site and installation…

N

Standardized thread type used for joining pipes and fittings in piping systems. The threads are tapered, creates a tight, leak-resistant seal…

Precision valve designed to control fluid flow rate in a piping system with accuracy. It features a tapered, needle-like plunger…

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global organization that publishes codes to reduce fire, explosion, and electrical hazards….

Short length of pipe with male threads on both ends, used to connect two fittings, valves, or pieces of equipment in a piping system…

Standardized system used to identify pipe diameters in North America.  Non-dimensional number that represents the  inside diameter of a pipe…

Inspection method used to evaluate the integrity and quality of materials, components, or piping systems without causing damage…

O

Branch connection fitting used to create an outlet from a larger run pipe (header) to a smaller branch pipe It improves flow…

Detailed instructions for the safe startup, operation, shutdown, and emergency response of industrial processes….

Automated welding process where the welding head rotates 360° around a stationary pipe or tube, creating high-quality welds…

Flow measurement device installed in a pipeline to measure fluid flow rate by creating a controlled pressure drop,  used for monitoring…

A technical advocate who bridges the gap between contractors and project goals, ensuring project success by safeguarding technical quality…

P

Specialty flanges used to reinforce branch connections in piping systems. They are typically welded to the surface of a header pipe…

Perastaltic Pump

Positive displacement pump that moves fluids through a flexible tube using rotating rollers or shoes to compress and release the tubing…

Short, flexible length of tubing or piping, often coiled, used to connect instruments, valves, or equipment to a main pipeline…

Structural support systems that suspend piping from overhead structures, including fixed hangers, spring hangers…

Thermal protection applied to piping systems for temperature maintenance, energy conservation, personnel protection…

Pipe Marking

Identification systems including tags, labels, and color coding to identify piping contents, flow direction, hazards…

The strategic determination of optimal paths for piping systems through available space while balancing multiple technical…

A standardized system for specifying pipe wall thickness, with higher schedule numbers indicating thicker walls and… 

The engineering evaluation of forces, moments, and displacements in piping systems to ensure safe operation under all expected…

Pipe Support Design

The engineering discipline focused on designing structural elements that carry piping loads while accommodating thermal movement…

A standardized system for specifying pipe wall thickness, with higher schedule numbers indicating thicker walls and…

The engineering evaluation of forces, moments, and displacements in piping systems to ensure safe operation under…

Structural elements designed to carry piping loads, control movement, and maintain proper alignment while accommodating thermal…

A comprehensive technical document showing every component in a process system including piping, instrumentation…

The engineering discipline focused on creating detailed layouts, routing plans, and specifications for industrial piping systems that safely…

 Detailed, 3D-style drawing that represents a section of a piping system. It shows pipe lengths, elevations, fittings, valves, & dimensions…

The physical arrangement of piping systems within available space, optimizing for process requirements, constructibility…

Comprehensive technical documents that define allowable materials, components, and construction methods for specific process…

Design, operation, and maintenance of industrial facilities to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable production processes…

Detailed, scaled map that shows the boundaries, dimensions, and features of a property or project site. helping to avoid conflicts…

Scaled drawing showing the arrangement of process equipment, buildings, roads, and utilities within a facility…

Design, operation, and maintenance of industrial facilities to ensure safe, efficient, and reliable production processes…

Used to close the end of a pipe, fitting, or opening in a piping system. They are typically threaded, welded, or inserted and can be easily removed…

A 3D dataset generated by laser scanning that contains millions of spatial data points representing surface geometry…

The manipulation and refinement of raw scan data including filtering noise, removing unwanted objects, and preparing data for…

Type of pump that moves a fixed volume of fluid by trapping it in a chamber and forcing it through the discharge outlet…

Assembly of piping or process systems in a controlled shop environment before delivery to site. Improves quality, lowers cost, and enables faster…

Instrument used to measure and display the pressure of gases or liquids within a piping system. It provides real-time monitoring…

The maximum allowable working pressure for piping components, varying with temperature and defined by applicable codes…

Control device that monitors the pressure of a fluid or gas in a piping system and activates or deactivates equipment…

Quality assurance procedure used to verify the strength, integrity, and leak-tightness of piping systems, vessels, or equipment…

The design and analysis of enclosed containers used to hold liquids or gases under pressure. Must comply with codes such as ASME…

Engineering systems and strategies used to automatically maintain process variables (temperature, pressure, flow, composition)…

The fundamental technical requirements, assumptions, and criteria that guide all process engineering decisions for a specific…

The design and analysis of enclosed containers used to hold liquids or gases under pressure. Must comply with codes such as ASME…

The discipline focused on designing, optimizing, and scaling industrial processes from laboratory concepts to full-scale manufacturing…

The engineering discipline responsible for specifying, sizing, and configuring major process components such as vessels, reactors…

Visual representation of the major equipment, piping, and process flow within an industrial system. PFDs are essential for safety…

Systematic evaluation of potential hazards in industrial processes, including identification of causes, consequences…

Devices used to measure, monitor, and control variables within a process system, such as pressure, temperature, flow, & level…

The systematic improvement of industrial processes to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, improve safety, and increase production…

A comprehensive regulatory framework under OSHA requiring systematic management of processes involving highly hazardous chemicals…

Computer modeling of industrial processes to predict performance, optimize design, and evaluate operating scenarios before committing…

Positive displacement pump that moves fluids by trapping them in cavities formed between a helical rotor and a stator…

The coordination and management of technical engineering activities across multiple disciplines to deliver complete industrial projects…

A structured review performed before starting up a new or modified process to verify that construction is complete, safety systems…

Metal pipe lined with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) to provide corrosion resistance and chemical compatibility…

The process of choosing the appropriate pump type, size, and material based on fluid properties, required flow rate…

Q

Structural support systems that suspend piping from overhead structures, including fixed hangers, spring hangers…

R

Non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses X-rays to inspect the internal structure of materials, welds, & piping systems…

Engineering vessels for chemical reactions, considering kinetics, residence time, temperature control, agitation, and safety systems…

A vessel designed to collect condensed or discharged process fluids, often placed downstream of condensers or filters…

 Piping fittings used to connect pipes of different diameters, allowing for a smooth transition in flow rate and pressure.

Control device used to maintain and adjust pressure or flow within a piping system by automatically opening or closing…

Engineering analysis and specification of pressure relief devices to protect equipment and personnel from overpressure conditions…

Engineering calculations that determine the required relief capacity and valve characteristics based on potential overpressure…

Systematic evaluation of potential hazards, their likelihood, and consequences to support risk management decisions…

Ariable area flowmeter used to measure the flow rate of liquids or gases in a piping system. It consists of a tapered tube & a float…

Mechanical device used to control the flow of bulk materials or gases in a piping or process system. It consists of a rotating rotor with vanes…

RTD

(Resistance Temperature Detector) is a temperature-sensing device that  detects changes in the electrical resistance of a metal element…

A non-reclosing pressure relief device designed to burst at a specific pressure to protect equipment. Often used where valves are not suitable…

S

Safety Engineering

Engineering discipline focused on identifying and mitigating hazards in industrial facilities and processes through systematic application of safety…

Independent protection systems designed to take processes to a safe state when predetermined conditions are violated…

Specialized valve used to safely extract small quantities of fluid from a piping system, tank, or process line for testing and quality control…

The engineering process of transitioning from laboratory or pilot-scale processes to full commercial production…

The density of measurement points captured by a laser scanner, typically measured in points per square meter or angular resolution…

Areas not captured by laser scanning due to line-of-sight limitations where objects block the scanner’s view, requiring multiple scan positions…

The process of converting laser scan point cloud data into Building Information Models (BIM) for design, construction…

Industrial processes that separate mixtures into component parts using techniques like distillation, extraction, filtration, or crystallization…

Detailed fabrication drawings prepared by contractors or equipment manufacturers showing exact construction details, dimensions…

 Transparent device installed in a piping system or equipment to visually monitor the flow, clarity, and level of fluids……

A prefabricated modular process unit built off-site and delivered to the field as a self-contained system, complete with piping, equipment, & controls…

Detailed fabrication drawings prepared by contractors or equipment manufacturers showing exact construction details, dimensions…

Manual welding process that uses a flux-coated consumable electrode to create an electric arc between the electrode & the base metal…

A welding method where pipe is inserted into a fitting socket and fillet welded, providing strong connections for small bore piping…

piping flange designed for small-diameter, high-pressure systems. The pipe is inserted into the flange’s recessed socket…

Electromechanically operated valve used to control the flow of liquids or gases in a piping system. It operates using an electric coil…

Spec Break

The location where piping changes from one specification class to another, typically at block valves, requiring careful attention…

Safety devices used in piping systems to isolate sections of pipe or equipment for maintenance, inspection, or system changes…

Detailed fabrication drawing for a specific pipe assembly showing dimensions, welds, and components, enabling accurate fabrication…

 Motionless device installed inside a pipe to blend or mix fluids as they flow through it. It uses fixed, engineered elements…

Mechanical device used in steam systems to discharge condensate, air, and non-condensable gases, preventing the loss of live steam…

Container designed to hold liquids, gases, or other materials used in industrial processes. These tanks are essential for storing raw materials…

Ppiping component used to remove debris, particles, and impurities from fluids in a pipeline, protecting pumps, valves, and other equipment…

Engineering calculations to evaluate forces and stresses in piping and equipment systems under various load conditions…

Piping components used with lap joint flanges to create a flanged connection that allows for easy disassembly and alignment of piping systems…

Ppiping component used to remove debris, particles, and impurities from fluids in a pipeline, protecting pumps, valves, and other equipment…

T

Tank Farm

Designated area containing multiple storage tanks used to store liquids or gases, such as petroleum products, chemicals, or water…

Target Spherers

Spherical reference objects placed in scan areas to aid in registration and provide known reference points for aligning multiple scans with high accuracy.

Tees

is a three-way pipe fitting with one inlet and two outlets (or vice versa), arranged in the shape of the letter “T”. It allows fluids to be split…

The maximum and minimum operating temperatures for piping materials and components, affecting pressure ratings and material selection…

is a device installed on piping systems to measure the temperature of the process fluid, providing data for monitoring, control, and safety…

a device that monitors the process fluid temperature and activates or deactivates an electrical circuit once a set temperature point is reached…

The dimensional change in piping systems due to temperature variations, requiring design accommodation through proper routing…

an instrument that measures the mass flow rate of a fluid (usually gases) based on heat transfer. It works by heating a sensor element…

a temperature-sensing device made of two dissimilar metals joined at one end, which generates a voltage proportional to the process fluid’s temperature…

The engineering principles governing energy relationships and phase behavior in industrial processes, fundamental to equipment design…

Protective fitting installed into a pipe or vessel to house a temperature sensor. It isolates the sensor from direct contact with the process fluid…

Pipe joints made using matching male and female threads, typically used for smaller diameter piping, instruments, and temporary connections…

Type of flange with an internal screw thread that matches the external thread of a pipe. It allows the pipe to be connected without welding…

Planning activities required to safely and effectively connect new systems to existing ones. Often includes shutdown schedules, temporary supports, and logistics…

Defined location where new piping connects to existing systems, requiring accurate field verification and careful planning to minimize downtime…

Welding process that uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode and an inert shielding gas (such as argon) to produce high-quality, precise welds.

An instrument that measures a process variable (such as pressure, temperature, flow, or level) in the piping system. and converts it…

a hollow, cylindrical conduit used to transport fluids or gases, similar to pipe but defined by its outside diameter (OD) and wall thickness…

Small diameter piping typically specified by outside diameter (OD) rather than nominal pipe size, commonly used for instrumentation, sampling, and control applications.

device that measures the volumetric flow rate of a fluid by using a rotor (turbine) placed in the flow path. As the fluid passes, it spins the turbine…

A compiled set of final documents, including drawings, inspection records, test results, and manuals, provided to owner after installation is complete…

U

measures the flow rate of a fluid by sending ultrasonic signals through the pipe and detecting changes in signal velocity or transit time…

Non-destructive testing (NDT) method that uses high-frequency sound waves to detect internal flaws, measure wall thickness, and inspect welds in pipes

Fundamental physical processing steps such as heating, cooling, mixing, distillation, and separation that are combined…

V

Vacuum Insulated Pipe

specialized double-walled pipe in which the annular space between the inner and outer walls is evacuated to create a vacuum…

mechanical device connected to a piping system that removes air and other gases from a sealed volume to create and maintain a vacuum.

differential pressure flow measurement device that uses a converging section, throat, and diverging section to measure fluid flow…

The ability to remotely explore and measure scan data without physical site access, enabling design work & collaboration from any location…

Mechanical device connected to a piping system that removes air and other gases from a sealed volume to create and maintain a vacuum.

W

Vessel used to measure and control the flow of fluids by monitoring the change in weight of the tank over time. It is commonly applied in process…

Documentation showing the location, type, and identification of all welds in a piping system, critical for quality control…

type of flange with a long tapered hub that is butt-welded to a pipe. This design provides smooth distribution between the flange and the pipe…

Reference coordinate or elevation used to establish consistent dimensional control throughout design and construction…

X

Y

Z

#

3D Piping Model

A digital representation of piping systems within their actual spatial environment, enabling clash detection, and design validation…

Resources

CASE STUDY

Relief Study Ensures Compliance for WFE System

When a biobased chemical manufacturer needed to ensure their Wiped Film Evaporator (WFE) systems were fully compliant with OSHA and ASME standards, they turned to C-P Systems. Through our phased approach, we identified critical gaps in their overpressure protection, delivered detailed P&IDs, and provided a comprehensive mechanical construction package. Our efforts minimized downtime, ensured safety, and optimized their system performance. Explore how we helped the client achieve compliance and enhance efficiency.

Piping model overlayed on as-built laser scan

WHITE PAPER

Laying the Foundation for Industrial Project Success

Accurate facility data is the cornerstone of successful industrial projects. Examine how advanced 3D laser scanning can transform project planning and execution by providing highly accurate as-built models and piping isometrics. With prefabrication opportunities, reduced downtime, and minimized rework, you can achieve greater efficiency while controlling costs. See how you can gain actionable insights into using data-driven solutions to streamline operations and ensure every phase of your project is set up for success.

C-P Systems

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