If your industrial unit is fitted with a system of pre-insulated pipes, it is likely that they are hidden away behind walls or in the roof space. Because pre-insulated pipes aren't on display, it can be very easy to forget about them. However, it is vital that you carry out regular maintenance checks on your pre-insulated pipe system. If you fail to maintain your pipes, it is likely that they will malfunction, which could result in you having to pause production while repairs are carried out. Below is a guide which will help you to maintain the pre-insulated pipes.
Regularly inspect the pipes
As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. The best way of preventing problems is to schedule regular inspections of the pre-insulated pipes. By inspecting the pipes on a periodic basis, you will be able to nip any issues in the bud before they become full-on emergencies. The inspection should primarily concern itself with the visual appearance of the pipe. If the exterior is discoloured, rusted or leaking fluid, repair contractors should be called immediately. As well as inspecting the exterior of the pipe, you should occasionally commission an internal inspection. This will involve a contractor using a camera to view the inside of the pipe for signs of wear or damage.
Check fluid pressures and valves
As well as inspecting the condition of the pipes, it can also be useful to check the pressure of the fluid which is passing through the pipes and the valves which control its flow. If the pressure is too high, it could place the pipe under extreme stress. Over time, stress fractures could begin to form in the metal casing which could eventually cause the pipe to suddenly burst open. If the pressure of the fluid is too low, this could cause sediment to form within the pipe as minerals and particles fall out of the slow-moving fluid and gather on the interior surface.
If sediment is allowed to build up, it could obstruct the flow of fluid through the pipe and result in a dangerous build-up of pressure. While checking the pressure, you should also inspect the valves to ensure that they are not blocked and that they can still be freely opened and closed. A stuck valve could result in fluid entering the pipe when it should not, resulting in a leak.
If you would like to find out more, you should contact a pre-insulated and chilled water pipe specialist today.