October 2015

Can I retrofit my existing piping system to meet code?

Posted on October 22, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Piping system

Retrofitting an existing piping system, is the act of fortifying or strengthening the piping system, so that it can perform well under normal to extreme conditions. This process is especially important in urban and industrial areas where pipes are used to transport waste, gas, oil, water, and other substances on a daily basis. Before you can consider retrofitting your existing piping system to meet new codes, you must first thoroughly understand the regulations, laws, and risks that are associated with the task.

Understanding Codes and Laws

Detailed technical guidelines must be followed when undertaking the assessment, retrofitting, and rehabilitation of pipes. In each urban, residential, and industrial zone there will be published guidelines regarding the standard of each piping system. The engineers and technicians whom are retrofitting your existing piping system must understand the area-specific guidelines, before work can begin. In addition, these individuals must remember that the focus of their work should be to:

Make structural improvements;
reduce the hazards that may occur due to extreme weather;
and meet the established codes for retrofitting any piping system in areas where seismic activity is prevalent or has recently occurred anywhere in the world.

Finally, the UBC, ASME, and National Hazard Reduction Program that was initiated by FEMA, all offer guidelines for the actual retrofitting process. These published guidelines are designed to prevent injury and loss of life.

Understanding the Risks

The main risks associated with retrofitting an existing pipe system involve the effects that seismic activities can have on pipes. If laws, codes, and guidelines are not followed then the results can all too easily become catastrophic. In addition, clearly defined processes, high-quality materials, and stringent standards must be maintained during the project. Retrofitted pipes must not give way during seismic events. In short, they need to be able to maintain their integrity no matter the weather activity.

In conclusion, you can retrofit your current piping system to meet new codes. However, before you can undertake this task, you and your team must first thoroughly review the laws, conditions, risks, and regulations surrounding the retrofitting process. Next, you must establish stringent project guidelines to ensure retrofitting success. Finally, you should use the highest-quality parts, like those provided by W.P. Law, Inc. Since 1970, W. P. Law has provided exceptional service, advice, and products to individuals in the industrial and commercial space. To learn more about the products needed to securely retrofit pipes, contact a member of the W. P. Law team today.

What do I need to install a pondless water feature?

Posted on October 15, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Newly Installed Pondless Water Feature

The pondless water feature is the must-have outdoor home accessory that you never knew you needed … until today! These unique waterscape systems can be constructed using a combination of a stream, rocks, gravel, waterfall, and aquatic plants. Together the latter items are positioned to create a beautiful water feature, without having to install a pond or create a home for fish.

Characteristics of a Pondless Water Features

The disappearing or pondless waterfall allows water to remain at the same level of the rock and gravel fill. Since the water never rises above the rocks and gravel, it gives the appearance that both the waterfall and the stream are disappearing. In reality, the water is securely captured in a hidden underground basin. The underground basin houses the pump equipment and is also lined or filled with rock and gravel. The water is then circulated via a concealed submersible pump. It journeys through an underground pipe up to the waterfall, down the stream, and straight back to the pondless waterfall basin to provide you with countless hours of enjoyment.

Benefits of a Pondless Water Feature

There are a number of benefits to installing a pondless water feature in the back or front yard of your home.

Pondless water features are virtually maintenance-free.
The water feature runs on a timer and can be set to auto-fill, so that evaporated water is automatically replaced.
Residents can enjoy the benefits of a water feature, without having to maintain an entire ecosystem.
Pond water features can have a tendency to overflow, while the pondless feature only allows for a minimal amount of water.
Improve the beauty of your outdoor lawn spaces.
Create a serene and calming space that can be enjoyed throughout the year in above-freezing temperatures.
Enhance the curb appeal of your home with a pondless water feature and additional outdoor lighting structures.

To learn more about installing a pondless water feature in your home’s lawn or to discover additional landscape tips, we invite you to contact a member of W. P. Law, Inc. Since 1970 W. P. Law has provided landscaping and water feature advice to residential homeowners. Discover the best products and trusted advice when you work with an expert from W. P. Law.

What applications are traveler irrigation systems best for?

Posted on October 8, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

WP Law

Traveler irrigation systems use a large sprinkler, also known as a “big gun,” that is mounted to a wheeled cart. The sprinkler is then moved across the field, so that it can spray water in a radius of 80 – 250 feet. There are two types of traveler irrigation systems, cable-tow travelers and hose-pull travelers, which can be used for a multitude of agricultural purposes.

Cable-Tow Traveler Irrigation System

A cable-tow traveler uses a large sprinkler that is securely mounted on wheeled car. A large, flexible hose is connected to the cart, while the other end of the pipe is connected to the water source. The machine is propelled through the field via the use of a steel cable that is wound around a drum or pulley system that is mounted to the cart. A water motor, turbine, or piston can be used to propel the cable winch. The cable used to propel the machine must be attached to an immovable object located at the edge of the field.

Using this type of irrigation system will require farmers to make an alleyway through the field. The alley or travel lane will need to be between 6 – 16 feet wide (depending on the size of the machine). Rocks and other abrasive materials should be cleared from the alley. Given the potential difficulties of sloping terrain, the cable-tow traveler irrigation system is best used on flat cropland. It can be used on a variety of agricultural products, such as peanuts, soybeans, corn, sunflowers, and other crops that are grown on flat land.

Hose-Pull Traveler Irrigation System

The hose-pull traveler features a large reel that is mounted on a wheeled cart, a large volume gun-type sprinkler that is also mounted on the wheeled cart, and a large semi-rigid polyethylene hose. The trailer mounted hose reel should be parked at the end of a travel lane; water is then fed through the hose to the sprinkler cart. The sprinkler cart is pulled along by the hose, and the hose is then wound onto the trailer-mounted hose reel. Water billows, a turbine, water piston, or auxiliary engine can be used to drive the hose.

The hose-pull traveler irrigation system can be used on a wide-array of terrain types. A travel lane doesn’t need to be used, except for low-growing crops, which makes the hose-pull traveler irrigation system more versatile than its cable-tow counterpart. It can be used for a number of plants, including: soybeans, peanuts, corn, turf, and other crops that can withstand the higher water pressures.

To learn more about the differences between cable-tow and hose-pull irrigation systems, contact the experts at W. P. Law, Inc. Since 1970, W. P. Law has been providing professional advice and helping members of the agricultural industry choose the best irrigation systems for their crops.

Is Your Pump to Blame for Your Irrigation Issues?

Posted on October 2, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

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Pump Repair and Fabrication Infographic

If you’re experiencing irrigation issues, trying to diagnose the cause of the problem can become quite frustrating. While not always the case, sometimes your pump may be to blame. Find out if that’s the case for you, this time, by checking out these simple steps.

Turn off the power.
Follow priming procedures for your pump.
Inspect the pump.
Clear any obstructions.
Check the plugs.
Restore power.
Observe if operation is normal.

What determines if fabrication should be done in the field or in a shop?

Posted on October 1, 2015September 8, 2022 by splashme@splashomnimedia.com

Pipe Fabrication

Pipe fabrication is the process of customizing or manufacturing a pre-designed piping system to meet a specific use. A custom fabricated piping component is often created to connect to an existing piping system. The type of pipe and other materials being used are dependent upon the application. While most projects can be completed in the controlled environment of a shop facility, sometimes fabrication in the field is required to best meet the customer’s needs.

Advantages of Shop Fabrication

There are several advantages to conducting shop fabrication.

Fabrication occurs in a controlled environment which allows for greater accuracy and efficiency regardless of weather conditions.
Items can be tested before they are installed.
There are no mobilization costs associated with shop fabrication. You only have to pay to ship the fabricated components.
Reduced costs throughout the process.
Increased safety for workers.

Disadvantages of Shop Fabrication

There are a few disadvantages to conducting shop fabrication which include:

Accurate dimensions are required if the fabricated component is being used as a replacement for an existing component.
If components are being supplied by different manufacturers, sometimes it is better to see what you are working with before you start the fabrication process.

Advantages of Field Fabrication

Here are some advantages of field fabrication:

Field fabrication is preferred if there are a lot of unknowns, such as the location of pumping equipment.
Field fabrication may be the only option if the item being repaired or replaced cannot be easily taken to a shop facility.

Disadvantages of Field Fabrication

There are several potential disadvantages of field fabrication, which can cause some individuals to prefer shop fabrication techniques.

Weather can be a huge disadvantage, especially when the facility under construction is not properly enclosed or protected from the elements.
Field fabrication is sometimes less efficient and cost effective, when compared to shop fabrication.
There are increased safety concerns.

With these advantages in disadvantage in mind, it is clear that choosing between a field or shop fabrication will depend on the circumstances surrounding the work area. From weather conditions to pipe conditions, safety and security should always be evaluated before choosing a fabrication method. To learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of shop vs. field fabrication, contact an expert at W. P. Law, Inc. For over 40 years W. P. Law has been one of the Southeast’s leading suppliers of fluid handling equipment for farmers, contractors, and industries.

Month: October 2015