VACUUM JACKETED PIPING SYSTEMS (VJP)
Vacuum jacketed pipe, also referred to as vacuum insulated pipe, is constructed of an inner and outer pipe. The inner pipe, which carries the cryogenic liquid, is wrapped with multiple layers of super-insulation consisting of alternating layers of a radiant heat barrier material and a non-conductive spacer material. The air in the space between the two lines is pumped out, creating a static vacuum shield. The vacuum space contains getter materials to collect out-gassed molecules to further improve the vacuum. The thermal barrier between the inner and outer lines is so effective that even with -452°F liquid helium flowing through the pipe, the outer surface remains safe to touch with bare hands.
INSTALLATION IS EASIER – SAVES TIME AND MONEY
Vacuum jacketed pipe is easier to install than foam insulated copper pipe because it is manufactured to meet the specific layout requirements of your facility. Pipe sections are joined with vacuum insulated bayonet connectors that provide frost-free connections. Bayonet fittings simplify installation and maintain the integrity of the insulating system. This eliminates fabrication work at your location and shortens the installation time.
KEEP IT COLD — MINIMIZING HEAT TRANSFER
The goal in transferring cryogenic liquids is to keep the liquid as cold as possible from the supply tank to the points of use.
Minimizing heat transfer (otherwise referred to as heat leak) is the primary concern in conveying cryogenic fluids through a pipe system. All liquids seek equilibrium with surrounding temperatures. Thus, a cryogen such as liquid nitrogen at -320°F seeks to reach equilibrium with the air surrounding the transfer pipe.
Heat leak drains profits
Reduces process efficiency through:
-Loss of cryogen through evaporation
-Diminished cooling capacity
-Inconsistent quality of cryogen delivered
-Variation in cool-down time from one point to another
3 WAYS HEAT IS TRANSFERRED AND HOW VJP REDUCES IT:
Conduction
is reduced through low conductivity radial supports to prevent the inner pipe from touching the outer pipe.
Convection
is prevented by removing the gas molecules from the space between the inner and the outer pipe.
Radiation
is minimized by wrapping the inner pipe with multiple layers of reflective material.
YOUR OLD INSULATED PIPE IS COSTING YOU MONEY!
For decades, the accepted method of insulating cryogenic transfer pipe (typically copper) was to use foam insulation covered by a protective polyvinyl chloride layer. This type of insulation is inexpensive and works well when new, providing typical heat transfer rates above 20 BTU/hr/ft at LN2 temperatures.
Performance deteriorates rapidly as the insulation ages. Within about 5 years the insulation becomes far less effective in preventing vaporization of the liquid.
CONSIDER THIS:
We offer the best vacuum jacketed piping systems in our nation. Our systems are modular and flexible and can be rerouted and used anywhere inside or outside of your plant in a short time. We offer rigid systems (non flexible) when needed that are pre-engineered on-site to fit your plant needs and then custom fabricated and shipped to your location for assembly. We have the versatility of installing a temporary VJP system while your current system is being built. There are situations where lead time is always a factor to your plants start-ups and need to get running ASAP. We have a full line of VJP and equipment in stock and on-site during your installation in case of curve balls that are commonly thrown at you during new installations. Normal installations used to involve pre site survey and prints were drawn and piping order was submitted usually taking up to 10-12 weeks for arrival. That’s something end user’s cannot afford. We have many years of experience in designing and installing these systems and learned from early age mistakes that end up very costly on both ends. Learning from them and implementing a new strategy in a stocking program makes us a new leader in turnaround and quality. We are prepared for the challenge of ever changing product lines that require short deadlines. Give us a call, we’re confident you will be impressed. We flourish on your repeat business. It’s a phone call and the job gets done precisely the first time and you look good for bringing us in.
LN2 or CO2 does not matter with our piping it will handle both and it’s flexible since freezers today our going dual usage of cryogens. Up to 60 foot lengths coiled up in a roll makes handling and shipping a breeze. We stock many lengths and sizes to fill your plant’s requirements.
VJP SPECS:
The most cost effective way to transfer cryogenic fluids.
The completed pipe section is cold tested, inspected and checked using a helium mass spectrometer leak check.
Pipe Joints: Both rigid and flex systems offer many different connections JIC, MPT or the best thermal connection the bayonet joint. (See picture) This joint offers frost free connections between pipe sections and makes installation fast no welding in plant or on-site. This maintains the thermal efficiency of the piping system. Bare or raw connections using foam joints or tape are a major heat loss and cause saturated liquid to produce vapor surges in your system thus resulting in poor cryogen use. This costs you money every day the system is in use.
Warranty: Rigid systems are guaranteed for a period 10 years from installation date and flex systems carry a 3 year warranty from installation date.