An anti-surge valve, also known as a surge-anticipating valve, is a type of control valve (surge relief valve) used in fluid systems to prevent overpressure and pressure surges that can damage equipment or cause system failure. It is typically used in systems that have rapidly changing flow rates, such as in turbocharged engines, compressors, and pumps. The valve is designed to open and release pressure when the system pressure exceeds a pre-determined set point, allowing the system to operate within a safe pressure range and preventing damage to the system.

Functions of an Anti-Surge Valve

The main function of an anti-surge valve is to protect equipment and systems from overpressure and pressure surges that can occur during rapid changes in flow rate. Some of the specific functions of an anti-surge valve include:

• Preventing damage to the equipment: by releasing pressure when the system pressure exceeds a set point, the valve helps to prevent damage to the system and its components.
• Maintaining system stability: by regulating pressure, the valve helps to maintain the system stability and prevent system failure.
• Improving system efficiency: by preventing pressure surges, the valve can improve system efficiency by reducing the amount of energy required to operate the system.
• Reducing noise: by releasing pressure, the valve can also reduce noise in the system caused by pressure surges.
• Minimizing downtime: by protecting the system from overpressure and pressure surges, the valve helps to minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs.
• Controlling the flow: anti-surge valves can be used to control the flow of fluid or gas in the system.
• Protecting compressors and pumps: anti-surge valves are commonly used in systems that have rapidly changing flow rates, such as in turbocharged engines, compressors, and pumps.

Working of Anti Surge Valves

An anti-surge valve works by monitoring the system pressure and opening to release pressure when the pressure exceeds a pre-determined set point. The valve is typically installed in the system at a location where the pressure is highest and most susceptible to surges.

The valve typically consists of a valve body, a valve seat, a spring, and a piston or diaphragm. When the system pressure is within the safe range, the spring keeps the valve closed, and the piston or diaphragm is held against the valve seat, preventing flow through the valve.

When the system pressure exceeds the set point, the pressure acts against the piston or diaphragm, compressing the spring and lifting the valve of the seat. This allows the system pressure to be released through the valve, reducing the pressure to a safe level.

When the pressure drops back to the set point, the spring forces the valve back onto the seat, closing the valve and stopping the flow. Some anti-surge valves are also equipped with a control system that can automatically adjust the set point to match the changing conditions of the system, while others have manual adjustments.

Anti-surge valves are typically designed to open and close quickly, in order to respond quickly to pressure changes and protect the system from overpressure and pressure surges. Fig. 1 below shows typical anti-surge valves.

Anti Surge Valve Requirements

Anti-surge valves have several requirements that need to be considered when selecting and installing them in a system:

• Set point: the set point of the valve is the pressure at which the valve will open and release pressure. It is important to select a set point that will protect the system and its components from overpressure and pressure surges.
• Flow rate: the valve must be able to handle the flow rate of the system in order to effectively release pressure. The valve size and type must be selected based on the flow rate of the system.
• Pressure drop: the valve must be able to release pressure without creating a significant pressure drop in the system. The pressure drop must be minimized in order to maintain system efficiency. The design shall be sufficient to handle high-pressure drops if the situation arises.
• Response time: the valve must respond quickly to pressure changes in order to protect the system from overpressure and pressure surges. The response time of the valve must be fast enough to meet the needs of the system.
• Material: the valve material must be compatible with the fluid or gas in the system in order to prevent corrosion or damage to the valve.
• Environment: the valve must be able to withstand the environmental conditions of the system, such as temperature, vibration, and external impacts.
• Control: the valve must be equipped with a control system that can automatically adjust the set point to match the changing conditions of the system or manual adjustments.
• Safety: the valve must be designed and installed in a way that ensures safety for the operators and maintenance personnel.
• Maintenance: the valve must be designed for easy maintenance and repair, to minimize downtime and reduce maintenance costs.
• Cost: the cost of the valve must be considered in relation to the overall cost of the system and the potential savings from preventing damage and downtime.
• Good Stroke Speed: the anti-surge valve must be having good stroke speed
• Size: the valve shall be properly sized to control the surge.
• Valve Construction: To handle extreme service conditions, the construction must be robust.

Design of Anti Surge Valve

Designing an anti-surge valve involves several steps, including:

Define the system requirements: The first step in designing an anti-surge valve is to define the requirements of the system, including the set point, flow rate, pressure drop, response time, and material compatibility.

Determine the surge volume: The surge volume is the volume of fluid that needs to be released by the anti-surge valve in order to prevent overpressure and pressure surges. This can be calculated by using system models and simulations.

Select the valve size and type: Based on the surge volume, the valve size and type can be selected. The valve size should be large enough to handle the flow rate and the type should be appropriate for the fluid or gas in the system.

Consider the control system: An anti-surge valve must be equipped with a control system that can automatically adjust the set point to match the changing conditions of the system. It could be manual adjustment too.

Consider the environment: The valve must be able to withstand the environmental conditions of the system, such as temperature, vibration and external impacts.

Testing: Once the valve has been designed and built, it should be tested to ensure that it meets the requirements of the system and is able to effectively release pressure and prevent overpressure and pressure surges.

It’s important to note that anti-surge valves are a critical component in systems that have rapidly changing flow rates, and the design should be carried out by experienced engineers and based on established standards and guidelines.

Anti-Surge Valve Specification

To specify an anti surge valve the following parameters must be defined in the datasheet:

• Valve Size
• Valve Style
• Pressure Rating
• Body Material
• Actuator Type
• Valve Trim Details
• Valve End Connections
• Temperature and Pressure ranges
• Shut Off characteristics
• Rated Valve Coefficient, Cv
• Leakage Class
• Time for a full stroke
• Predicted Noise at the maximum flow
• Action on failure

Manufacturers of Anti-Surge Valves

There are many manufacturers of anti-surge valves worldwide, some of the well-known ones include:

• Dresser Masoneilan
• Fisher Control Valves
• Flowserve
• KSB
• Metso
• Neles
• Pentair
• Spirax Sarco
• Velan
• Beker Hughes
• Emerson Automation Solutions.

These manufacturers offer a wide range of anti-surge valves in different sizes, types, and materials to meet the needs of different systems and applications. They also provide technical support and service to ensure proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the valves. It’s important to note that the selection of the manufacturer and supplier should be based on their reputation, brand, certifications, standards compliance, and technical support service.

Anti Surge Valves in Compressors

Anti-surge valves in compressors are used to prevent overpressure and pressure surges that can occur in systems with rapidly changing flow rates. Click here to learn about Centrifugal compressor Surge and Control. The valve is typically installed in the compressor system at a location where the pressure is highest and most susceptible to surges.

When the compressor is working, the flow of gas is steady and the pressure remains within a safe range. However, when the compressor is shut off or when the flow rate suddenly decreases, the pressure in the system can rise rapidly. This is called a “surge” and if not controlled, it can cause damage to the compressor and the system.

An anti-surge valve in a compressor system functions by monitoring the system pressure and opening to release pressure when the pressure exceeds a pre-determined set point. This allows the pressure to be released, reducing it to a safe level and preventing damage to the compressor and the system.

Anti-surge valves in compressors are designed to open and close quickly, in order to respond quickly to pressure changes and protect the system from overpressure and pressure surges. They are also equipped with a control system that can automatically adjust the set point to match the changing conditions of the system, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the compressor.

A tie-in in piping refers to the process of connecting new piping to existing piping. This can be done to extend the existing piping system, add branches to it, or connect it to other equipment. Whenever there is a need for plant expansion or operation changes in an existing plant, Piping tie-ins are unavoidable. Tie-ins can be performed in a variety of ways depending on the type of piping and the conditions in which it is located. They often require careful planning and execution to ensure that they are done safely and effectively.

The philosophy behind piping tie-in is to connect new piping to existing piping to ensure that the new piping is properly connected and that the existing piping is not compromised in any way. The goal is to create a seamless integration between the new and existing piping so that the entire system functions as a cohesive unit. Additionally, the tie-in should be done in a way that is easy to maintain and repair, and that minimizes the risk of leaks or other problems. Overall, the philosophy behind piping tie-in is to ensure that the new and existing piping work together seamlessly to support the overall function and operation of the system.

The tie-in points are usually closed with Blind flanges, since removing a blind flange while operating is not convenient a shut-off valve upstream of the blind flange is installed to provide safe isolation and expansion. Tie-in Points are generally shown in P&ID and Piping Isometrics. A designated number will be allocated to Tie-in Points for example TP-034, and TP-001 as per the requirement.

A Tie-in table must be maintained in overall General Arrangement drawings and P&ID for a better understanding of the plant interface. A Tie-In list usually consists of the Tie-in point number and elevation of the Tie-in point from the design point of view. The tie-in list can be used to estimate the cost of construction and for scheduling work well in advance of the actual piping design activity. Below is an example of a Tie-in point list table

Types of Piping Tie-ins

There are different types of Tie-in Points

• Plant Tie-In Points.
• Skid Tie-In Points.

Plant Tie-In points are used for plant interface between existing plant lines or other process lines coming from a neighboring plant. The elevations should be matched with the existing plant design.

The Tie-in point flanges or isolated valves should be installed in such a way that proper spacing is maintained for operation and maintenance purposes. Please refer to Fig. 2A for plant tie-in points placed on the pipe rack.

Skid Tie-In points are located inside the plant to establish interconnecting connection piping between different skids and Equipment present in the plant. The Tie-in points are installed in such a way that it allows the process lines from other skids to be connected at a single point to ease operation and maintenance. Please refer to Fig. 2B for Skid Tie-in Points.

Again depending on the actual connection methodology, there are four types of pipe tie-in connections as mentioned below:

• Buttwelded Piping Tie-in
• Flanged Piping Tie-in
• Threaded Piping Tie-in, and
• Hot-tapped Tie-in connection

Refer to Fig. 3 below which clearly shows various types of tie-in connections used in the piping industry.

Piping Tie-in Point Design Considerations

When designing and installing tie-in piping, it’s often driven by the need to handle increased flow rates in utilities or processes, which might require new equipment. Once you know the process needs and have sized the tie-in piping, the next step is to think about how to isolate the piping during installation.

Shutting down the entire plant isn’t always practical, so a brief, scheduled outage might be planned to break the line and install the tie-in. Afterward, you can install the piping while the plant operates normally. To avoid multiple shutdowns, consider adding a shutoff valve upstream of the tie-in point. This allows you to safely isolate the area and install the piping later without disrupting operations.

When choosing a valve, make sure it can handle pressure on one side while being unpressurized on the other, and that it meets safety requirements like being lockable and compliant with OSHA standards. Including a drainable spool piece downstream of the valve is smart, as it lets you check for leaks and safely relieve pressure.

Finally, consider the routing of the connecting piping. While a straight route may seem easiest, adding flexibility with jogs, loops, or flexible connectors might be better for reducing stress on sensitive equipment. Tools and software are available to help analyze and optimize the piping layout, taking into account factors like pressure, temperature, and dynamic loads. The major design considerations for tie-in piping connection are

• Before considering the allocation of Tie-in points allowable Flange loading (or tie-in point displacements) should be calculated as per the standards.
• Tie-in point locations should be mentioned accurately in all directions to avoid conflict with the counter connection.
• Process engineers should decide on the Tie-in locations to avoid hazards during the operational time.
• The Engineer who decides the Tie-In locations should have a better view of maintenance and operation. A Tie-in plot plan should be prepared and checked by the plant personnel to avoid conflict.
• The valve and flange rating is considered as per the connecting line size.
• The Tie-In Items (Flanges and Valves) are considered as an additional quantity when calculating the Piping MTO.
• The Tie-in locations should be physically checked on the site before preparing the Tie-in Table.
• Change of instrumentation or control loop doesn’t need a Tie-In Point.
• Additional Drains and vents must be added as per the type and location of the Tie-ins.
• The Tie-in should be placed in a location considering the pipe support locations as pipe supports are needed based on the type of Tie-in selected.
• In the view of future equipment designers, the Tie-in fluid properties should be provided by the process engineer.
• Different kinds of shut-off valves including ball, gate, and butterfly valves are suitable for isolation.
• Based on the process fluid and pressure conditions process engineer will select the suitable valve.
• A separate GA drawing must be prepared like a plot plan which shows all the Tie-in locations in the plant.
• In some conditions, when there will be no possibility to isolate the Tie-in point or to shut down the plant process, an alternative method known as Hot Tapping can be considered to accommodate the line break. More details about hot tapping on operating lines are covered here.

Benefits of Piping Tie-in Connections

A Tie-In point in a piping/pipeline is a point where the pipeline is closed for further expansion or for connection with an existing pipeline. Tie-in points are usually located at the end of plant battery limits either on the pipe rack or sleeper or at the individual Equipment ends. This Tie-in is made along with the P&ID preparation considering the future need for the project

There are several benefits to using piping tie-ins in a piping system, these include:

• Cost-effective: Tie-ins can be a cost-effective way to add or extend a piping system, as it eliminates the need for new construction and minimizes the need for new equipment.
• Increased system efficiency: By connecting new piping to existing piping, the entire system can function more efficiently and effectively.
• Minimizes downtime: Tie-ins can be done in a way that minimizes downtime and interruption to the operation of the system.
• Improved safety: Tie-ins can be done in a way that improves safety by reducing the risk of leaks or other problems.
• Flexibility: Tie-ins provide flexibility by allowing for easy addition or modification of the piping system.
• Better maintenance: By connecting new piping to existing piping, the entire system can be easier to maintain, as any issues or problems can be identified and addressed more quickly.
• Better integration: Tie-ins create a seamless integration between new and existing piping, improving the overall function and operation of the system.

It’s important to note that, despite the benefits, proper planning and execution of the tie-in is crucial to ensure safety, quality, and efficiency. The use of a detailed method statement, following proper procedures, and having a well-trained team is key to a successful tie-in.

Piping Tie-in Schedule

A piping tie-in schedule is a document (engineering deliverable usually prepared by process engineers) that outlines the plan and schedule for a piping tie-in project. It typically includes a detailed list of the tasks that need to be completed, the resources (e.g. personnel, equipment, materials) required to complete each task, and the timeline for each task. The schedule should also include milestones and deadlines, as well as contingencies in case of delays or unexpected issues.

The schedule should also include safety and quality assurance plans, as well as inspection and testing requirements. The piping tie-in schedule can be used as a guide for the project team and stakeholders to track the progress of the project, identify any potential issues, and make adjustments as needed. It is also used as a tool to coordinate the different activities and ensure that all are done properly and on time. A typical Tie-in Schedule is shown in Fig. 4 below:

Safety Features for Pipe Tie-in Connection

• The tie-in schedule must mention the type of work (hot work or cold work) to be used during the actual tie-in operation.
• The tie-in schedule should inform if the shutdown is required for the operation to perform.
• The lines to be demolished must be positively isolated, purged, and free from any hydrocarbon prior to cutting/unbolting.
• The tie-in schedule must be read in conjunction with the tie-in shutdown philosophy for proper planning.
• The requirement of 100% radiography for golden joints must be specifically stated.
• The construction team must ensure that the existing line is isolated, depressurized, and free from hydrocarbon prior to unbolting.
• Ensure that isolation valves are properly closed.

Piping Tie-in Procedure

A piping tie-in procedure is a set of instructions outlining the steps that need to be taken in order to safely and effectively connect new piping to existing piping. It typically includes a detailed description of the equipment and materials that will be used, as well as the specific techniques and methods that will be employed. The procedure should also include safety precautions that need to be taken, as well as any inspection and testing requirements. Refer to Fig. 5 which shows a piping tie-in in the operating plant.

The procedure will depend on the type of tie-in and the conditions of the existing piping, but it generally includes the following steps:

• Planning: This includes identifying the scope of work, gathering all necessary information and drawings of existing piping, and determining the resources required to complete the tie-in.
• Preparation: This includes cleaning and prepping the existing piping and the new piping, as well as installing any necessary supports or hangers.
• Tying-in: This is the actual process of connecting the new piping to the existing piping, which may include cutting, welding, brazing, or flanging, among others.
• Testing and Inspection: After the tie-in is completed, the system should be tested and inspected to ensure that it is functioning properly and that there are no leaks or other issues.
• Post-tie-in: This includes cleaning up the work area, restoring the site and the equipment, and updating any records or drawings.

It’s important to note that, before starting the tie-in procedure, a permit to work should be issued and safety measures should be in place. A risk assessment should also be done to identify and mitigate any potential hazards.

Construction and Installation of Piping Tie-in/ Tie-in Schedule

Before starting construction on a line break, it’s essential to issue a line break permit. This permit covers important details like the exact location of the break, the design documents needed, the type of fluid in the line, required safety equipment, potential hazards, any special cleaning or flushing needed, valve locking and tagging instructions, and a list of all involved personnel.

If the tie-in point can be isolated, you can install the connecting piping without shutting down the process. However, if isolation isn’t possible and the line can’t be shut down, a procedure called “hot tapping” is necessary. Hot tapping allows you to connect to a live, pressurized line, often used for steam, gas, water, or other utilities that must keep flowing.

The basic steps for hot tapping include welding a fitting onto the line, installing and testing a gate valve, attaching the hot tap machine, boring into the line, and then safely removing the machine after closing and locking the valve. This is a specialized task that should be done by experienced companies. After hot tapping, you can proceed with installing the connecting piping, followed by pressure and leak testing before the new piping is put into service.

The installation of piping tie-in/tie-in schedule is a multi-activity task performed as follows:

Tie-in Preliminary works

• Notification from Company
• Pre-fabrication of Tie-in spool
• NDE & Hydrotest for Tie-in spool
• Ultrasonic Testing for existing Tie-in line
• Excavation and installation of foundation (if required)
• Scaffolding, Structure, Platform, Support installation

Tie-in Execution Works

• Positive Isolation from Company
• Blinding (Gas free line)
• Cold cutting and Installation of tie-in spool
• Welding, NDT, Hydrotest
• Line Blowing and Drying
• De-blinding and client handover

Touch-up and painting

• Scaffolding removal and housekeeping
• Handover to operation team/company

Piping Tie-in Method Statement

A method statement for piping tie-in is a document that outlines the specific procedures and steps that will be taken to safely and effectively connect new piping to existing piping. It is a detailed plan of the work that will be done, including the equipment and materials that will be used, the techniques and methods that will be employed, and the safety precautions that will be taken.

A typical method statement for piping tie-in would include the following information:

• Introduction: A brief overview of the scope of work and the objectives of the tie-in.
• Equipment and Materials: A list of the equipment and materials that will be used, including any special tools or safety equipment.
• Procedures: A step-by-step description of the procedures that will be followed, including the techniques and methods that will be used to connect the new piping to the existing piping.
• Safety: A description of the safety precautions that will be taken, including any specific hazards associated with the tie-in and the measures that will be taken to mitigate those hazards.
• Inspection and Testing: A description of the inspection and testing that will be done after the tie-in is completed, including any acceptance criteria that must be met.
• Quality Assurance: A description of the quality assurance procedures that will be followed, including any inspections or tests that will be done to ensure that the work is done to the required standards.
• Emergency Procedures: A description of the emergency procedures that will be in place in case of any accidents or incidents.

It’s important to note that, before starting the tie-in, the method statement should be reviewed and approved by relevant parties, such as the safety officer, the quality manager, and the project manager.

A piping manifold is a system of pipes, valves, and fittings that are used to distribute or control the flow of fluid, such as water, gas, or oil, in a pipe system. It is a central point where multiple pipes come together and are distributed to different locations. A piping manifold can be used for various purposes such as distributing fluid from a main pipe to several smaller pipes, controlling the flow of fluid to different parts of a building or industrial facility, or isolating a section of a pipe system for maintenance or repair.

A manifold can be made of various materials such as metal, plastic, or even glass and it can be designed for different pressure and temperature conditions, depending on the application. The manifold typically consists of inlet and outlet ports, which are connected to the main pipe and the smaller pipes respectively, and control valves that regulate the flow of fluid through the system. Some manifolds also have pressure gauges, temperature gauges, and other monitoring devices to measure the flow and condition of the fluid. Fig. 1 below shows a typical water injection piping manifold.

Applications of Piping Manifold

Piping manifolds are widely used in the oil and gas, HVAC, plumbing, and industrial process piping systems, and can be found in a variety of applications such as, in buildings, ships, oil rigs, pipeline systems, and many other industrial facilities.

Purpose of Piping Manifold

A piping manifold is a component in a piping system that serves as a central hub for distributing fluids or gases to multiple branches or locations. The purpose of a piping manifold is to control and distribute the flow of fluids (liquids or gases) in a piping system and to provide a convenient location for connecting and disconnecting pipes, valves, and other components. Manifolds can also be used to control pressure and temperature, and to facilitate maintenance and repair of the piping system.

Piping Manifold Design

Designing a piping manifold involves several steps:

• Identify the fluid or gas that will be flowing through the manifold and its properties, including viscosity, density, and flow rate.
• Determine the number and location of branches or outlets that the manifold will need to distribute the fluid or gas to.
• Select the appropriate materials for the manifold and its components, taking into consideration factors such as corrosion resistance, pressure and temperature ratings, and compatibility with the fluid or gas.
• Determine the appropriate pipe size, flow rate, and pressure drop for the manifold based on the fluid or gas properties and the number of branches or outlets.
• Choose the type of valves and controls that will be used in the manifold, such as ball valves, gate valves, or globe valves.
• Create a detailed layout and drawing of the manifold, including the location of pipes, valves, and other components.
• Consider the safety and maintenance aspects, ensuring that the manifold is designed to be easily accessible for maintenance and repair and that it meets all relevant safety codes and regulations.
• Finally, consult with the appropriate professionals and conduct pipe stress analysis, thermal analysis, and hydraulic analysis as needed.

It’s also important to keep in mind that some standard codes and regulations may apply to the design and fabrication of the manifold, and it’s essential to comply with them.

Types of Piping Manifolds

There are several common types of piping manifolds, each with its own unique features and applications. Some of the most common types include:

Branch Manifold: A branch manifold is a simple type of manifold that splits a single flow of fluid or gas into multiple branches or outlets. It typically has one inlet and multiple outlets and is commonly used in applications such as HVAC systems, water distribution systems, and gas distribution systems.

Loop Manifold: A loop manifold is similar to a branched manifold, but it creates a looped flow pattern. It typically has multiple inlets and multiple outlets and is commonly used in applications such as process control systems and industrial cooling systems.

Block Manifold: A block manifold is a more complex type of manifold that combines several functions into one compact unit. It typically includes multiple inlets, outlets, valves, and other components, and is commonly used in applications such as hydraulic systems, lubrication systems, and refrigeration systems.

Valve Manifold: A valve manifold is a type of manifold that is primarily used to control the flow of fluid or gas through a piping system. It typically includes one or more valves, such as ball valves or gate valves, and is commonly used in applications such as process control systems, instrumentation systems, and industrial automation systems.

Choke Manifold: A choke manifold is a type of manifold that is used to control the flow rate and pressure of the fluid or gas. It typically includes one or more chokes, such as needle valves or orifices, and is commonly used in applications such as oil and gas production, and well testing.

Again depending on the purpose of the manifold they are popular by various names as listed below:

• Water injection Manifold (Fig. 1)
• Gas lift manifold
• Oil manifold, etc

Pipeline Manifolds

A pipeline manifold is a device used to distribute or control the flow of fluids in a pipeline system. It typically consists of a series of valves, fittings, and other components that can be configured to regulate the flow of fluid through the pipeline. Manifolds are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications, such as oil and gas production, water treatment, and HVAC systems. They can be used to control the flow of fluids at a specific point in the pipeline or to branch the flow of fluids to multiple locations.

Difference between a Header and a Manifold

A header and a manifold both refer to devices used to distribute or control the flow of fluids in a pipeline system. However, the terms are often used in slightly different ways.

A header is generally used to refer to a large pipe or tube that collects fluid from multiple sources and sends it to a central location. For example, in a heating system, multiple smaller pipes might bring hot water to a header, which then sends the hot water to different parts of the building.

A manifold, on the other hand, is often used to refer to a device that splits the fluid flow into multiple smaller streams or combines multiple fluid streams into one. Manifolds are often used to control the flow of fluids at a specific point in the pipeline or to branch the flow of fluids to multiple locations.

In summary, a header is a pipe that collects fluid from different sources and sends it to a central location, while a manifold is a device that splits or combines the flow of fluids at a specific point in the pipeline.

Factors for Selecting the Right Piping/Pipeline Manifold

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right type of piping manifold for a specific application. Some of the most important factors include:

• Flow rate: The required flow rate of the system will determine the size and type of manifold needed.
• Pressure: The operating pressure of the system will also affect the design and selection of the manifold.
• Type of fluid: The type of fluid being transported will determine the materials and coatings that should be used to construct the manifold.
• Temperature: The operating temperature of the system will affect the materials and coatings that should be used to construct the manifold.
• Space constraints: The available space for the manifold will affect the size, shape, and configuration of the manifold.
• Safety and regulations: The manifold must be designed and built to comply with relevant safety and regulatory standards.
• Maintenance and repair: The ease of maintenance and repair for the manifold should also be considered in the selection process.
• Cost: The cost of the manifold should be considered in relation to the overall budget for the project.

It is important to consult with a piping expert to determine the best type of manifold for a specific application and take into consideration all the factors above.

Difference between a Manifold and a Skid

A manifold and a skid are both used in industrial and commercial applications as a way to control or distribute the flow of fluids, but they are different types of equipment.

A manifold is a device that splits the fluid flow into multiple smaller streams or combines multiple fluid streams into one. Manifolds are often used to control the flow of fluids at a specific point in the pipeline or to branch the flow of fluids to multiple locations. They can be made of different materials such as steel, aluminum, or plastics and they can be customized to specific applications.

A skid, on the other hand, refers to a pre-assembled unit that contains one or more pieces of equipment, such as pumps, valves, and/or control systems, mounted on a metal frame or platform. Skids are often used in industrial and commercial applications, such as oil and gas production, water treatment, and HVAC systems. They are designed to be easily transported and installed and can be used to process and control the flow of fluids within a specific area or process.

In summary, a manifold is a device that splits or combines the flow of fluids at a specific point in the pipeline, while a skid is a pre-assembled unit that contains one or more pieces of equipment such as pumps, valves, and/or control systems mounted on a metal frame or platform, used to process and control the flow of fluids within a specific area or process.