Project Overview
The TTS Engineering Land Department completed the installation of a new vacuum pump skid system to support a critical industrial process.
The project required the installation of multiple utility services connected to the skid, including nitrogen, house vacuum, compressed air, cooling water, chilled water and drainage pipework. To achieve this, the team designed and installed a network of 316L stainless steel crimped pipework and manifolds, integrating the new equipment with the existing site infrastructure.
The installation also involved multiple break-ins to the customer’s live services. Therefore, careful planning and coordination were essential to minimise disruption and ensure a safe installation.
Project Objective
Supporting a New Vacuum System
The primary objective was to install a fully operational vacuum pump skid and connect it to the site’s existing utility services.
The system required several process and support connections to ensure reliable operation. These included vacuum flow and return lines, nitrogen supplies, compressed air services and cooling circuits.
Providing a Reliable Pipework Network
The project also aimed to deliver a robust and maintainable pipework system using 316L stainless steel crimp technology.
This approach provided a clean and efficient installation method while maintaining the integrity required for industrial vacuum applications.
Ensuring System Performance
In addition, the new installation needed to achieve the required operating vacuum and pass all testing requirements before handover.
The team therefore incorporated appropriate isolation points, flexible connections and testing procedures throughout the installation.
Project Detail
Skid Positioning and Preparation
The project began with the positioning and preparation of the vacuum pump skid.
The team installed the vacuum pumps, receiver vessels, filters and isolation valves in their designated locations. This created the foundation for the new utility connections.
Pipework Installation
The team installed a complete network of 316L stainless steel crimp pipework to serve the skid.
The installation included:
- Nitrogen pipework
- House vacuum flow pipework
- House vacuum return pipework
- Compressed air pipework
- Cooling water flow and return pipework
- Chilled water flow and return pipework
- Drainage pipework
Careful routing reduced unnecessary bends and maintained efficient pipe runs throughout the system.
Break-Ins to Existing Services
Several connections required break-ins to existing site pipework.
The team carefully isolated the relevant services before completing the tie-ins. As a result, the new skid integrated seamlessly with the site’s existing infrastructure.
Crimped Stainless Steel Installation
The pipework system utilised a specialist 316L stainless steel press-fit solution.
Each pipe section was measured, cut and deburred before installation. The team then inspected all seals and fittings before completing the crimping process using manufacturer-approved tooling.
Furthermore, pipe supports and brackets were installed throughout the system to prevent loading on equipment connections and maintain long-term reliability.
Vacuum System Considerations
Vacuum applications introduce additional technical requirements compared with conventional pressure systems.
Therefore, the team selected components suitable for vacuum service and installed vacuum-rated flexible connections where required. These connections helped isolate vibration and protected the pump connections from excessive loading.
The installation also incorporated isolation valves and monitoring points to support future maintenance and testing activities.
Testing and Verification
Testing formed a critical part of the project.
Following installation, the team completed pipework testing and leak verification activities. They then carried out system performance checks to confirm that the vacuum skid achieved and maintained the required operating vacuum.
These tests provided confidence that the installation met the project’s operational requirements.
Project Outcome
The vacuum pump skid installation was successfully completed and integrated into the customer’s existing utility systems.
The new installation delivered a fully connected vacuum system supported by nitrogen, compressed air, cooling, chilled water and drainage services.
By combining detailed planning, specialist stainless steel pipework installation and comprehensive testing, TTS Engineering delivered a reliable solution that supports the customer’s operational requirements.
This project demonstrates TTS Engineering’s capability in industrial utility installations, stainless steel pipework systems, vacuum applications and multi-service process integration.
