Petrochemicals

Wide selection of material and valves and measurement solutions to ensure process safety.

Corrosion Resistance Excellence

At GF Piping Systems, we support the petrochemical industry by providing corrosion-resistant piping solutions made from materials like PVC, CPVC, PP, PVDF, and ECTFE, which handle aggressive chemicals and reduce maintenance. Our products meet stringent international safety and regulatory standards, ensuring safe and compliant operations. We collaborate with our customers in the petrochemical sector  to develop customized solutions for high-pressure applications, extreme temperatures, and challenging conditions. The solutions are designed for optimal flow, minimizing pressure drops and energy consumption, leading to cost savings and improved operational reliability. Our offer includes piping systems, valves and measurement solutions and comprehensive lifecycle support and training to ensure seamless integration and ongoing operational assistance. 

Applications

Filling of Tanks

In manufacturing and processing plants,  tanks are required to store liquid media. GF Piping Systems offers fast, reliable, and safe tools for filling and emptying tanks. Our range comprises a large sprectrum of piping system, including measurement and control technologies, actuated and manual valves as well as an extensive array of valves for demanding applications.

Process Cooling Water

Cooling the media, single components or entire systems is an integral part of many industrial processes. Elements can either be cooled directly or via secondary systems that cool process surroundings.

Demineralization

Completely controlled processes with the highest purity and quality standards require process water of specified qualities at different levels. GF provides high-quality systems for these demanding binding and filter processes, meeting all relevant industry standards.

Distribution of Chemicals

Transporting chemicals in the highest quality, different concentrations, and exact dosing are mandatory. Choosing the appropriate piping system, including automation, offers many advantages, such as increased productivity, decreased production and maintenance costs, and improved product quality.

Fume Scrubber

Properly designed fume scrubbers are very effective in removing particles, dust, aerosols, and oxides that are smaller than 10 microns. To effectively remove particles, proper contact time between the gas or liquid is very important. Precise measurement is key in this application.

Fire Fighting

In case of fire, a secure and reliable water supply for underground distribution and above-ground sprinkler systems is crucial for emergency management. The complete system relies on a consistent water supply with adequate pressure and the right flow rate. Our PE underground systems are FM-approved and provide the highest level of safety and reliability for firefighting water systems.

FAQs

What are the biggest challenges of the petrochemical Industry, and how can plastic Piping Systems solve them?

  • Corrosion and material degradation

Traditional metal pipes in petrochemical plants are prone to corrosion and material degradation due to exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme environmental conditions, leading to frequent maintenance, leaks, and costly downtime. Plastic piping systems, such as those made from PVC-U, PVC-C, or PVDF, are highly resistant to chemical corrosion and can withstand extreme conditions without degrading. This enhances the longevity and reliability of the piping infrastructure, reducing maintenance costs and preventing operational disruptions.

  • Weight and Installation Complexity

Metal pipes are heavy and require complex and labor-intensive installation processes. This increases the time and cost of installation and complicates modifications or expansions of the piping network. Plastic pipes are significantly lighter and easier to handle compared to metal pipes. They can be installed quickly and with fewer resources, reducing labor costs and project timelines. The flexibility of plastic piping also simplifies modifications and expansions, providing operational agility.

  • Thermal Expansion and Contraction

Metal pipes expand and contract significantly with temperature fluctuations, causing stress on joints and connections. This can lead to leaks, mechanical failures, and increased maintenance needs. Plastic piping systems have a lower coefficient of thermal expansion than metals, and they are designed to absorb and accommodate temperature-induced movements without compromising the system's integrity. This minimizes the risk of leaks and mechanical failures, ensuring a more stable and durable piping network.

What are the benefits of adding industrial ethernet-enabled field devices to the piping system in petrochemical plants?

Adding Industrial Ethernet-enabled field devices to petrochemical plant piping systems offers numerous benefits. The most commonly used Industrial Ethernet protocols include Modbus TCP, PROFINET, and EtherNet/IP. The devices enhance real-time data acquisition and monitoring, improving process control and efficiency. They support predictive maintenance by providing critical data for early fault detection, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Improved communication reliability ensures continuous operation and safety. Additionally, easy integration with existing systems and scalability for future upgrades enable flexible and cost-effective enhancements to plant operations.

What measurement parameters are crucial to ensure the reliable operation of petrochemical plants?

Crucial measurement parameters for ensuring the reliable operation of petrochemical plants include:

  • PressureMaintaining optimal pressure levels to prevent leaks or bursts.
  • Temperature: Monitoring to ensure safe and efficient chemical reactions and equipment operation.
  • Flow: Ensuring proper material movement through the piping system.
  • Level: Managing liquid levels in tanks and vessels to prevent overflows or dry runs.
  • pH: Controlling chemical reactions and product quality.

What valves are most commonly used in the piping systems of petrochemical plants?

The most commonly used valves in the piping systems of petrochemical plants include:

  • Ball Valves: Known for their durability and ability to provide tight sealing, used in on/off applications.
  • Butterfly Valves: Favored for their compact size and ability to handle large fluid volumes with low-pressure drops.
  • Check Valves: Prevent backflow, ensuring unidirectional flow.
  • Diaphragm Valves: Used for handling corrosive fluids, providing tight shut-off and control.

Ball, Butterfly, and Diaphragm Valves can be easily equipped and retrofitted with our pneumatic, electric, or smart actuators.

Pneumatic actuators provide fast, reliable operation, are robust in harsh conditions, and require low maintenance. Electric actuators offer precise control, high torque, and energy efficiency, making them ideal for automation and remote operation. Both types of actuators can be equipped with Industrial Ethernet capabilities, enhancing real-time data acquisition, enabling remote monitoring and control, and integrating seamlessly with advanced plant automation systems for improved operational efficiency and safety.

Georg Fischer Piping Systems (Switzerland) Ltd. - GF International

Amsler-Laffon-Strasse 9

8200 Schaffhausen

Switzerland

GF logo on the headquarters building