Pipe Rack FAQ

Frequently Asked QuestionsConX Modular Pipe Rack

Product.....................................................................................................................................3

1. How does the ConX® System compare to conventional design in pipe rack applications?...................................................................................................................3

2. How does the ConX® System compare cost-wise to a conventional frame in pipe rack applications?...................................................................................................................3

3. Can I custom design spans and lengths for my ConX Pipe Rack? ................................3

4. Will this system work on a 30’x20’ grid so we can eliminate some of the foundations? .3

5. Does ConXtech offer Pipe Shoe anchors or guides? .....................................................3

6. Does the ConX System eliminate the need for scaffolding?...........................................3

7. Can the ConX System be utilized for off shore projects? ...............................................3

8. What is the highest ConX pipe rack completed to date?................................................4

9. Where do I buy ConX® Modular Pipe Rack? .................................................................4

10. Is the ConX System applicable in geographies where a lack of skilled labor makes it difficult to construct? .....................................................................................................4

Structural Design & Engineering ...........................................................................................4

11. What testing have you done? .....................................................................................4

12. What are available beam sizes for ConX Modular Pipe Rack? ..................................4

13. Can the ConX® System be used for “low-temperature service”? ...............................4

14. How does the ConX® System handle transportation loads? ......................................4

15. Is ConX® suitable for both modules and stick-built? ..................................................4

16. What are the typical spans for Pipe Rack? .................................................................5

17. How many levels high can a ConX® Modular Pipe Rack be? ....................................5

18. Is bracing required? ....................................................................................................5

19. How does ConXtech® deal with un-braced length? ...................................................5

20. How does the ConX® system eliminate bracing?.......................................................5

21. How does the ConX® System address road crossings? ............................................5

22. How does the ConX® System address pipe bridges? ................................................5

23. How does ConXtech factor for equipment loading on a Pipe Rack? ..........................5

24. How are anchor loads on the top flange of a beam resisted by the ConX System?...5

25. How do you tie in the ConX® Modular Pipe Rack to an existing pipe rack?...............6

26. Why are ConX tube columns filled with concrete in O&G applications?.....................6

27. How much weight does the concrete-fill add to a typical module comprised of twelve columns? ....................................................................................................................6

28. Do I need to be concerned with shrinkage of concrete in tubes? ...............................6

ConXtech FAQ for ConX Modular Pipe Rack

ConXtech FAQ for ConX Modul

29. Can you weld on concrete filled columns?..................................................................6

30. What is the typical modeling software platform for ConX® industrial projects?..........6

31. How does ConXtech® handle revisions to structures after fabrication has started? ..6

32. How does ConXtech® model?....................................................................................7

33. How does ConXtech interact with the EPC culture?...................................................7

34. Who coordinates with our EPC? .................................................................................7

Durability, Corrosion Prevention, Coatings & Fireproofing ................................................7

35. Why are ConX tube columns filled with concrete in O&G applications?.....................7

36. How does ConXtech address concerns regarding HSS columns in Oil and Gas applications (interior corrosion, catching gas and vapor, etc.)?..................................7

37. Could moisture get trapped in ConX connections?.....................................................7

38. Is there potential for internal corrosion on ConX columns? ........................................7

39. Can ConX Modular Pipe Rack be fireproofed?...........................................................7

Fabrication & Field ..................................................................................................................8

40. What differentiates ConX® from conventional pipe rack fabrication?.........................8

41. When are the columns filled with concrete in industrial applications? ........................8

42. How does the Con ffolding? ....................................................8

43. Do ConX® Modula ms eliminate the need for scaffolding?.......8

44. How do the Modul ork? ............................................................8

45. How does ConXte

46. What happens if a

47. Does ConXtech ha

48. Is a crane required

49. Is there a special w

Safety.................................

50. Is the ConX® syste

51. What prevents Con construction? .......

Certification & Standards

52. Is ConX® certified

53. Does ConXtech®

54. Does the ConX® s

X® System handle sca

r Work Access Platfor

ar Access Platforms w

ar Pipe Rack

ch® handle lifting

ConX® column o

ve the capability

to erect a ConX

rench to tension

...........................

m safer than a c

X beams from in...........................

..........................

for use in Canad

comply with CISC

ystem comply wi

modules?...........................................................8

r beam assembly is damaged in the field? ........8

to erect? .............................................................8

structure? ...........................................................8

bolts? .................................................................9

............................................................................9

onventional system?...........................................9

advertently being dislodged from columns during ............................................................................9

.............................................................................9

a?........................................................................9

requirements?...................................................9

th CSA standards?..............................................9

ConXtech FAQ for ConX Modular Pipe Rack Back

dations?

em can be designed on a 30’x20’ grid. However, there should be a cost

5. Does ConXtech offer Pipe Shoe anchors or guides?

n be guided or anchored for

6. Does the ConX System eliminate the need for scaffolding?

or eliminate the need

7. Can the ConX System be utilized for off shore projects?

Based on our general knowledge of offshore projects, we believe the ConX System offers potential advantages. Inherent seismic performance makes it suitable for ocean transport loads.

Product

1. How does the ConX® System compare to conventional design in pipe rack applications?

ConX Modular Pipe Rack is truly a modular solution with innovative connections that typically eliminates bracing. This simplifies not only the structure, but pipe design (layout and routing). The elimination of bracing often reduces the number of levels required. ConX structures are highly intuitive and configurable with known capacities in the connections and the ability to add capacity to an extent if needed even late in the design cycle. ConXtech offers other optional features which are modularized to the greatest extent possible.

2. How does the ConX® System compare cost-wise to a conventional frame in pipe rackapplications?

ConX should be cost competitive with, or less costly, than a conventional pipe rack structure. Additional savings: Accelerated schedule (2-4X faster frame erection in the field); significant reduction in field labor required (including associated cost of transportation, housing); efficiencies in design, pipe layout and simplified routing that a brace free “system” enables including possible reduction of rack levels; and the enhanced safety of ConXtech’s lower and locking connection system. Past ConXtech® projects have reduced schedules by up to 33% with one owner reporting a 9 month schedule savings and an ROI of just six days.

3. Can I custom design spans and lengths for my ConX Pipe Rack?

Yes. Custom spans and lengths can certainly be accommodated. However, ConX standardized pipe rack module is 20’x20’ or 6m x 6m and therefore the most economical.

4. Will this system work on a 30’x20’ grid so we can eliminate some of the foun

Yes the ConX Systanalysis conducted to see if the increase in steel (due to the longer spans) will offset the foundation savings. ConX also offers a modular foundation system which should significantly simplify your foundations.

ConXtech has developed a Modular Pipe Shoe. The Shoe camaximum flexibility and requires no field welding.

ConXtech’s optional reusable Modular Access Platforms can reduce for scaffolding.

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9. Where do I buy ConX® Modular Pipe Rack?

Xtech is growing a

d FOB for mod-yard assembly; stick built by your EPC; installed by ConXtech Construction as a turnkey package; or installed by ConX Certified Erectors.

10. s it

ct than conventional steel structures. ConX is ideal for environments where qualified skilled labor is

11.

rmed 62 full-scale cyclic tests on ConX connections. A list of tests is available; contact us at [email protected]

8. What is the highest ConX pipe rack completed to date?

The highest ConX pipe rack installed to date is 45 feet. The tallest ConX structure to date is185 feet.

ConX Modular Pipe Rack is available directly from ConXtech. Connetwork of ConX Certified Fabricators but the system is sold via ConXtech. The system can be shippe

Is the ConX System applicable in geographies where a lack of skilled labor makedifficult to construct?

The ConX system was designed to be simple and safe to erect. ConXtech’s “lower and locking” connection technologies require a much lower skill level to safely ere

difficult to procure.

Structural Design & Engineering

What testing have you done?

ConXtech has perfo to obtain a copy.

12. Modular Pipe Rack?

ment frames:

ms: W12x30, W12x35 or W12x40 (W310x44.5, W310x52, W310x60).

05x9.5 thru ”. Up to W14x61, W16x67,

13. mperature service”?

material

14. How does the ConX® System handle transportation loads?

ds. If the bottom

What are available beam sizes for ConX

HSS Column & WF combinations for type LD mo

ConXR200 – Columns: HSS8x8x5/8 (HSS203x203x15.9) Bea

ConXL300 – Columns: HSS12x12x3/8 thru HSS12x12x3/4(HSS305x3HSS305x305x19). Available beam depths range from 14” to 21W18x71, and W21x68. (W360x91, W410x100, W460x106, and W530x101)

Can the ConX® System be used for “low-te

Yes. In low-temperatures the applicable specifications for welding, bolting and steelare implemented.

ConX Modular Pipe Rack modules can be designed for transportation loabeam is insufficient for travel loads, a temporary transverse travel beam is installed prior to transport.

15. Is ConX® suitable for both modules and stick-built?

Yes. ConX can be rapidly assembled in mod-yards or field assembled. Both methods are significantly more efficient than conventionally built pipe rack.


f the member sizes and/or connection capacity.

17.

eight.

bracing. However, there are circumstances where column leg height to the first supported beam is significant enough to require supplemental knee

19.

ing lly Unsupported Members.

s bi-axial moment connection, which allows its

structural members to be efficiently used to resist both gravity and lateral loads.

21.

bridge

23. How does ConXtech factor for equipment loading on a Pipe Rack?

wn capacities in the and the ability to add capacity to an extent if needed even late in the design

cycle. Loads for equipment being placed on a Pipe Rack should be provided to ConXtech so

24.

urther restrained against rotation at the midpoint by a perpendicular framing member. Between the three points where the section is

e

16. What are the typical spans for Pipe Rack?

Standard ConX Modular Pipe Rack spans 6m x 6m (20ft x 20ft). Other spans can be achieved by custom design and are governed by the strength o

How many levels high can a ConX® Modular Pipe Rack be?

It depends on the loading conditions, but ConXtech® has solutions that can address nearlyany configuration and h

18. Is bracing required?

Typically no, because ConX® is a robust bi-axial moment frame most ConX Modular Piper Rack structures do not require

bracing.

How does ConXtech® deal with un-braced length?

The member is designed for un-braced length using CSA S16-09, Section 13.6 – Bendon Latera

20. How does the ConX® system eliminate bracing?

The purpose of bracing is to provide resistance to lateral loads. ConX eliminates bracing byproviding lateral resistance through it

How does the ConX® System address road crossings?

A long span truss system can be connected to ConX frames at either side in order tothe gap.

22. How does the ConX® System address pipe bridges?

See above.

ConX structures are highly intuitive and configurable with knoconnections

those loads can be incorporated into the design.

How are anchor loads on the top flange of a beam resisted by the ConX System?

The transverse beam is fully retrained against rotation at the two ends where the section is fully welded to the collar assembly. The beam is f

prevented from twisting the pipe friction and the stabilizing tipping effect provided by the pipes prevents the section from twisting. Given the above torsional bracing condition, the force from the anchors is transferred to the supports by lateral flexure of the top flange platand double curvature flexure of the web and K-area along the length of beam between


25.

ing pipe rack to the ConX Modular Pipe Rack.

, nd stiffness

capacity, provide additional fire resistance and eliminate the void in the HSS/Tube column to

27.

:

of concrete in tubes?

ch’s test facility compensating admixes

can be added to the concrete to further reduce the potential of shrinkage related issues.

29.

30. What is the typical modeling software platform for ConX® industrial projects?

m your plant design software; or if d, we can produce a set of drawings or a model delivered that can be easily imported

into your plant design software such as PDMS, PDS, SmartPlant or others.

31. ?

a limited number of standardized parts and components that can be configured or reconfigured into

points braced against twist. Load transfer is accommodated by a combination of beam action of the top flange and yield lines at the top and bottom periphery of the participating web and K area plate column.

How do you tie in the ConX® Modular Pipe Rack to an existing pipe rack?

A ConX frame wouldn’t typically connect to an existing conventional pipe rack frame, the pipes would span from the exist

26. Why are ConX tube columns filled with concrete in O&G applications?

ConX® columns are concrete filled to provide additional stiffness to the face of the columnmeet local buckling requirements for thinner columns, provide additional axial a

prevent corrosion and the build-up of gasses.

How much weight does the concrete-fill add to a typical module comprised of twelve columns?

ConXR200 (assuming 8”x 8” x 5/8” tube):

Regular weight concrete adds 0.29 tons per foot of column height. Lightweight concrete add 0.22 tons per foot of column height.

ConXL300 (assuming 12”x 12” x 5/8” tube)

Regular weight concrete adds 0.73 tons per foot of column height. Lightweight concrete adds 0.56 tons per foot of column height.

28. Do I need to be concerned with shrinkage

No. Inspection of concrete filled tubes used as test specimens at ConXterevealed that there is negligible shrinkage of concrete fill. Shrinkage

Additionally, thermal shrinkage is nearly the same for concrete and steel.

Can you weld on concrete filled columns?

Yes.

You can provide ConXtech a preliminary model frodesire

How does ConXtech® handle revisions to structures after fabrication has started

One of the major benefits of the ConX® Modular Pipe Rack system is that it is truly a modular system rather than a custom design every time. ConX incorporates

an array of pipe rack designs. This means that late changes are not nearly as disruptive to the design team or schedule because adding or interchanging standardized parts and assemblies has been anticipated.


ing vided on the transverse beams.

32.

enterline model. For h uses Tekla Structures which can exchange data with

33.

tall Contractor.

, Coatings & Fireproofing

35. O&G applications?

umn, ial and stiffness

e column to

36.

us preventing moisture or gas build-up.

ith coating providers and

38.

dded to er reduce potential for corrosion.

more conventional pipe rack structures) this task becomes easier with ConX.

For example, additional capacity to resist anchor loads can be gained by engaging multiple adjacent transverse beams using a longitudinal tie-beam to interconnect the frames usthe uniformly spaced bolt-holes pro

How does ConXtech® model?

The frames are typically modeled using any of the Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software products available using elastic section properties in a centerline to cdetailing and manufacturing ConXtecyour plant design software of choice.

How does ConXtech interact with the EPC culture?

The ConXtech team can work with the EPC as a Design Assist Contractor or directly with the owner as a design, furnish and ins

34. Who coordinates with our EPC?

ConXtech’s Project Managers coordinate with EPC’s.

Durability, Corrosion Prevention

Why are ConX tube columns filled with concrete in

ConX® columns are concrete filled to provide additional stiffness to the face of the colmeet local buckling requirements for thinner columns, provide additional axcapacity, provide additional fire resistance and eliminate the void in the HSS/Tubprevent corrosion and the build-up of gasses.

How does ConXtech address concerns regarding HSS columns in Oil and Gas applications (interior corrosion, catching gas and vapor, etc.)?

ConX HSS/Tube columns are concrete-filled th

37. Could moisture get trapped in ConX connections?

ConX connections are no more susceptible to moisture being trapped than various other conventional steel connections, and less susceptible than “shimmed to fit” requirementstypically found in conventional steel. ConXtech is working wapplicators to provide an array of coatings, sealants and materials that can provide additional protection.

Is there potential for internal corrosion on ConX columns?

All ConX HSS tubes are filled with concrete to prevent corrosion. Additives can be athe concrete fill to furth

39. Can ConX Modular Pipe Rack be fireproofed?

ConX Modular Pipe Rack can be fireproofed just like any conventional steel rack. With the elimination of gusset plates and cross bracing (required in


40.

ned for manufacture in a highly automated process vs. the conventional hand crafted, cut and fit process that is the status quo.

; Automated BIM driven cut, drill, plasma lines; and specialized fixturing and jigs eliminate opportunities for human error and rework. This automated

k can be built

41.

re

42. How does the ConX® System handle scaffolding?

Platforms.

mns and can be a permanent or temporary part of the structure.

he need for scaffolding?

44.

Reusable Modular Access Platforms safely and simply attach to columns in the pipe rack

ined in the design phase.

f ing

ly is damaged in the field?

hangeable in many instances, therefore field production should not grind to a halt if a beam or column is accidentally damaged in the field.

47.

48. Is a crane required to erect a ConX structure?

Most pipe racks less than 60 feet high can be erected with a telescoping boom forklift.

Fabrication & Field

What differentiates ConX® from conventional pipe rack fabrication?

The ConX Modular Pipe Rack System was desig

Robotics, CNC Machining

approach ensures predictability, precision, quality and means 2 to 3X more racunder the same roof, in the same timeframe vs. conventional fabrication.

When are the columns filled with concrete in industrial applications?

Concrete fill is placed in the columns during the manufacturing process and columns ashipped ready to erect.

As an option, ConXtech® offers modular permanent or removable Work AccessThese platforms can be integrated into the rack structure by simply lower and locking ontostandard Pipe Rack Colu

43. Do ConX® Modular Work Access Platforms eliminate t

Yes.

How do the Modular Access Platforms work?

structure using the ConX Gravity connection. Connection locations are modular and pre-determ

45. How does ConXtech® handle lifting modules?

ConXtech® offers ConXSLLUG, a self-aligning lifting lug that lowers and locks to the top oeach column and is used for safely aligning, securely attaching, lifting/hoisting, and stackof pipe rack modules.

46. What happens if a ConX® column or beam assemb

ConXtech® offers a container based mobile factory which include jigs and fixtures required to manufacture one-off beam and column assemblies in the field. These assemblies are standardized and interc

Does ConXtech have the capability to erect?

ConXtech has erection capability within North America. Outside North America ConXtech can train local erectors to erect our system. The system is inherently intuitive and simple to erect.


Safety

50.

Both ConX and conventional steel frames are designed to the same code and provide tion is an innovative design providing

ations, movable work platforms provide robust stability without

supporting columns going down to grade, where they create hazards for equipment and r. This is a key advantage where concentrated work is being performed.

d from columns during

ge a

ne ¾

52.

53.

54. y with CSA standards?

Yes.

49. Is there a special wrench to tension bolts?

No. ConXtech uses a commercially available wrench and provides all the necessary equipment to tighten bolts.

Is the ConX® system safer than a conventional system?

similar structural performance, but the ConX conneclower and lock technology that enables safer and faster erection. For pipe rack applicthe systems’ standardized re

manpowe

51. What prevents ConX beams from inadvertently being dislodgeconstruction?

ConX was conceived with safety as a primary goal. All ConX moment connections are “lowered and locked™” together assisted by gravity (lowered) and a tapered 3D male/female connection mechanism (locked). It is very difficult to inadvertently dislodConX moment beam once it is in place in the structure.

In addition to the 3D taper which locks beams to columns, the ConXR system has oinch erection bolt which is placed through the outer collar to the inner collar to prevent a beam from accidental uplift or displacement. With ConXL300 and ConXL, a bolt can be placed through the flange collar and the corner collar to keep the beam from being dislodged during construction.

Certification & Standards

Is ConX® certified for use in Canada?

Yes.

Does ConXtech® comply with CISC requirements?

Yes.

Does the ConX® system compl

CONTACT USConXtech, Inc. 24493 Clawiter Road, Hayward, CA 94545

Phone: 510-264-9111x115 Fax: 510-264-1181 e-mail: [email protected]

Additional information is available on our website at www.ConXtech.com FASTER BETTER SAFER GREENERTM

Copyright © 2000-2013 ConXtech, Inc. All rights reserved.

US and Foreign Patents: U.S. P.N. 6,837,016; U.S. P.N. 7,021,020; U.S. P.N. 7,837,084; Australia P.N. 2001288615; Canada P.N. 2,458,706; China P.N. ZL 01 8 23730.4; Japan P.N. 4165648; Mexico P.N. 262,499; U.S. P.N. 6,802,169 B2; U.S. P.N. 8,161,707; Australia P.N. 2002244318; Brazil P.N. PIO209851-20; Canada P.N. 2479217; China P.N. ZL 2008 1 0110625.8; Mexico P.N. 282571; U.S. P.N. 7,051,917; Australia P.N. 2004319371; Canada P.N. 2,564,195; China P.N. ZL 2004 8 0042862.5; Hong Kong P.N. 1102268 Japan; P.N. 4427080; Mexico P.N. 275284; U.S. P.N. 7,127,863; U.S. P.N. 7,530,205; U.S. P.N. 7,146,770; U.S. P.N. 7,131,240; U.S. P.N. 7,503,151; U.S. P.N. 7,621,099; U.S. P.N. 7,716,820; U.S. P.N. 8,205,312; China P.N. ZL2004 8 0026485.6; EPO P.N. 1668197 (FR); EPO P.N. 1668197 (DE); EPO P.N. 1668197 (IE); EPO P.N. 1668197 (IT); EPO P.N. 1668197 (NL); EPO P.N. 1668197 (ES); EPO P.N. 1668197 (SE); EPO P.N. 1668197 (GB); Turkey P.N. TR 2009 0820 T4; India P.N. 219,425; U.S. P.N. 7,527,466; U.S. P.N. 7,040,069; U.S. P.N. 7,621,088; U.S. P.N. 7,441,692; Australia P.N. 2005283131; Canada P.N. 2,578,959; China P.N. ZL 2005 8 0030159.7; Japan P.N. 4,482,586; Mexico P.N. 270,862; U.S. P.N. 7,051,918; U.S. P.N. 7,802,406; Canada P.N. 2,153,038; US P.N. 8,011,150; U.S. P.N. 7,837,084; U.S. P.N. 7,941,985; Australia P.N. 2008260527; Canada P.N. 2,685,181. Other U.S. and Foreign Patent Protection Pending.

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