TriplePoint.Threads by TriplePoint.Engineering

In capital-intensive industries such as oil and gas, chemicals, utilities, and hydrogen, piping systems are the arteries of production. Designing them is one thing. Building them right is another. That’s where isometric drawings come in. These are not stylized sketches. They are working documents that translate 3D models into actionable 2D views for fabrication, installation, and inspection. Whether you're an EPC contractor, a design engineer, or a construction supervisor, understanding isometrics is essential. What Is an Isometric Drawing An isometric drawing represents a three-dimensional piping system on a two-dimensional plane. It uses a 30 degree angle from the horizontal to depict depth, allowing the viewer to see length, width, and height in a single view. Unlike orthographic drawings, which require multiple projections such as top, front, and side, isometrics consolidate spatial relationships into one coherent layout. These drawings are not to scale but they are dim...

Thermal expansion in industrial pipelines is predictable, yet its consequences are often underestimated. Even modest temperature shifts can cause measurable elongation, leading to misalignment, bracket deformation, and stress accumulation at welds or flanges. Effective pipeline design must anticipate this movement through deliberate support strategies, anchoring logic, and expansion accommodation. Thermal Design Fundamentals Every new pipeline design should begin with four key thermal conditions: the fully empty condition (no fluid, no pressure), maximum operating temperature (process or steam), minimum ambient or shutdown temperature, and frequency of thermal cycling. These aren’t just numbers. They shape how the system breathes. If ignored, they become the root of costly rework and long-term maintenance headaches. Pipe Support Types and Their Roles Pipe support actively shape how a pipeline responds to thermal and mechanical forces. Their selection must align with movement ex...

Relief devices are the last line of defense when pressure builds up in a vessel or pipeline and things start to go sideways. Whether it’s a runaway reaction, a blocked outlet, or fire exposure, you need a way to vent that pressure safely. But sizing these devices isn’t just about plugging numbers into a spreadsheet. It’s about understanding the physics of what’s happening inside the system—and that’s where DIERS comes in. DIERS (Design Institute for Emergency Relief Systems) revolutionized how we think about emergency venting. Before DIERS, most relief systems were sized using vapor-only assumptions. That worked fine for simple systems, but it failed miserably for reactive or foamy ones. DIERS showed that two-phase flow—where gas and liquid vent together—can choke the vent line, reduce flow efficiency, and lead to catastrophic failure if not properly accounted for. So let’s break it down. Why do we care? How do we calculate it? And what does DIERS actually tell us?   ...

Introduction Bolts and nuts are the unsung heroes of engineering and construction. From holding together skyscrapers to securing the wheels on your car, these small but mighty fasteners play a critical role in countless applications. Understanding their types, strengths, coding systems, proper torque application, and the right tools to use is essential for engineers, mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we’ll dive into the world of bolts and nuts, covering everything you need to know to choose and use them effectively.   1. Types of Bolts and Nuts Common Bolt Types Bolts come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific applications. The most frequently used bolt types include: Hex Bolt : Featuring a six-sided head and available in fully or partially threaded options, hex bolts are commonly used in construction, machinery, and automotive applications. Carriage Bolt : Recognizable by its round head and square neck, carriage b...