Piping Design Principles & Standards Flashcards
7 cards from real SPED practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Piping Design Principles & Standards flashcards as text
Which of the following is NOT a recognized type of pipe stress analysis per ASME B31.3?
Answer: Compressive buckling stress
ASME B31.3 categorizes pipe stresses as sustained (dead weight and pressure), occasional (wind, seismic), and expansion (thermal) loads; compressive buckling is not a defined B31.3 stress category.
What is the purpose of a pipe rack in an industrial plant?
Answer: To provide an elevated structure that routes and supports multiple process piping runs
Pipe racks are structural frameworks that elevate and organize multiple piping runs across the plant, providing efficient routing between equipment while allowing maintenance access.
In piping design, what does 'NPSH' refer to and why is it important?
Answer: Net Positive Suction Head — ensures adequate pressure at pump inlet to prevent cavitation
Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) is the difference between suction pressure and fluid vapor pressure; insufficient NPSH causes cavitation, which damages pump impellers.
Which insulation type is typically used for cryogenic piping operating below -100°F?
Answer: Cellular glass
Cellular glass insulation is preferred for cryogenic service because it is impermeable to moisture, dimensionally stable at low temperatures, and does not absorb condensation.
What is a 'dead leg' in a piping system, and why is it a concern?
Answer: A stagnant section of piping with no flow, which can cause corrosion, contamination, or Legionella growth
Dead legs are sections of pipe with no flow where fluid stagnates, potentially causing microbial growth, corrosion, or product contamination — especially critical in pharmaceutical and water systems.
What is the significance of the 'small bore piping' designation, typically NPS 2 and smaller?
Answer: It requires special design attention due to higher susceptibility to vibration fatigue failures
Small bore piping (NPS 2 and smaller) is more susceptible to vibration-induced fatigue failures and requires careful support and bracing, particularly near rotating equipment.
Which standard governs the dimensions and ratings of steel pipe flanges most commonly used in process piping?
Answer: ASME B16.5
ASME B16.5 is the standard for pipe flanges and flanged fittings covering NPS 1/2 through NPS 24, including dimensions, pressure-temperature ratings, and materials.