How to calculate the statistics of pipeline construction volume in chemical plants
Thread Content
We are a chemical company that is building a new workshop; the civil construction work has already been completed. Now, our management wants our project team to, based on the pipeline diagrams, calculate and estimate the workload related to subsequent tasks such as pipe welding, the installation of valves and reaction vessels, as well as insulation work. I’m completely confused and don’t know where to start. Is there any template that we can use as a reference? Please advise, experts!
Under normal circumstances, the volume of pipeline work in construction projects is generally measured in terms of length, with pipelines of DN50 and larger being taken into account. The volume of pipeline work for installation units is measured in dynes-inches.
For the length of pipes and the number of welds, refer to the pipeline layout diagram; count the welds based on the conditions of the pipelines, while valves and similar components are counted according to the PID diagram. In this way, you can determine the total number of welds that need to be done
Select the appropriate pipelines and pumps based on the production volume, amount of raw material, and feeding time
Is there a formula? A genius, save me!
Are there specific calculation methods and formulas? I’d appreciate some guidance
1. First of all, it’s impossible to measure precisely; you don’t have the energy for that. Secondly, if this is a workshop, there are few long straight pipes; you need to prepare a comprehensive material list for the design, and estimate the total amount of pipe welding based on the number of welds required on the fittings. 2. For the installation of valves and reaction vessels, simply refer to the material list. 3. The workload related to heat retention and insulation needs to be estimated based on the pipeline characteristics table; if the pipeline material data provided in the design is detailed line by line, it’s very simple to just use that information directly ； If not, it is recommended to create a separate table for this section of piping, mark it on the floor plan, estimate the length of the pipe based on the floor height, apply the thickness from the specification table, and then perform the calculations. Of course, if heat or cold insulation is not a concern or if there is ample time, it is possible to consult the corresponding single-line diagram directly, which provides the most accurate information.
It is generally calculated based on the length of the pipelines shown in the pipeline single-line diagram, which is used for installation work; it is likely that the client does not have this diagram either. The pipeline length and the monthly progress can be provided by the design institute or the construction party; it’s a simple matter that can be handled by making a phone call or visiting in person.
The method on the 7th floor is correct. Simply put, go to the archives and extract the material list from the drawings related to the process design (these drawings are provided by the design institute to the client). Based on that material list, simply add up the quantities of process pipelines, insulation materials, and valves.
I would roughly estimate by setting up a new setup, reversing the schedule, estimating the workload, and purchasing materials in advance :) Haha! The simplest approach is to ask similar devices or design institutes to estimate the welding dimensions, and then remove the valve from the PID ； When it comes to heat retention and insulation, such estimates are completely unrealistic – they are extremely inaccurate. If there’s a 3D model available, it will be possible to make more accurate estimates at that time