Pipefitter Blueprint Reading and Symbols 5

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a 'north arrow' symbol found on a piping plan drawing?

Accepted Answer

To orient the drawing relative to true or plant north for field layout

Answer

The north arrow orients the piping plan to plant north (or true north), allowing field crews to align the drawing with the actual site.

Question 2

On a piping drawing, what does the symbol 'FW' or a small flag on a weld symbol indicate?

Accepted Answer

A field weld to be made during construction rather than in the shop

Answer

A field weld flag (small flag on the weld symbol tail) indicates the weld is to be made at the job site, not prefabricated in the shop.

Question 3

A piping drawing shows a reducer symbol labeled '8" x 6" ECC RED'. What does 'ECC' tell a pipefitter?

Accepted Answer

The reducer is eccentric, meaning the centerlines of the two ends are offset

Answer

ECC (eccentric) means the reducer has offset centerlines, used to maintain a flat bottom-of-pipe for drainage or flat top-of-pipe to avoid air pockets.

Question 4

Which symbol on a P&ID represents a pneumatically actuated control valve?

Accepted Answer

A bow-tie (two triangles point-to-point) with a diaphragm actuator symbol above

Answer

A pneumatically actuated control valve is shown as a bow-tie valve body symbol with a diaphragm (dome) actuator symbol on top per ISA 5.1 standards.

Question 5

On an orthographic piping drawing, what does a circle with a horizontal line through the center, drawn on a pipe, typically indicate?

Accepted Answer

A union fitting

Answer

A circle bisected by the pipe centerline is the standard symbol for a union, indicating a mechanical joint that allows the pipe to be disconnected without cutting.

Certified Pipefitter Practice Test

Certified Pipefitter Practice Test

Pipefitter Blueprint Reading and Symbols 5