FAQ
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Our SmartPad System represents a significant advancement in the field of pipe corrosion protection, building upon the conventional practice of using epoxied-on FRP wear “pads.” The name “SmartPad” reflects the innovation and enhanced capabilities it offers.
The SmartPad introduces a range of design improvements that sets it apart. Notably, it enables rapid installation, effortless removal, and swift reinstallation, all in a matter of seconds. This quick process facilitates easy visual inspections for corrosion and allows for the reusability of SmartPads. They can also be applied to pipes with uneven surfaces resulting from previous corrosion treatment. All these features are just a few of the many advantages this system provides.
Furthermore, we’re excited to share that we have plans to integrate various sensor types into the SmartPad System. This development holds the promise of even greater capabilities, making it a comprehensive solution for pipeline protection and maintenance. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting advancement.
The system comprises an FRP exoskeleton constructed from layers of continuous strand mat that are meticulously impregnated and saturated with premium vinyl ester resin. The Hydroseal gasket exhibits a closed-cell structure akin to a memory-foam mattress, forming an effective seal that shields the pad/pipe interface from moisture infiltration. The SmartBands consist of heavy-duty, continuous strand fiber-reinforced FRP straps. The SmartTool, a specially engineered device, possesses the capability to exert substantial mechanical force effortlessly and efficiently.
All components of the SmartPad System have a well-established presence in the market, boasting extensive histories of study, testing, validation, and revalidation by their respective manufacturers and independent laboratories. These components have been scrutinized and proven over many years, even decades, contributing to a robust foundation of technical data and a history of reliable performance.
The SmartPad is designed to fit a broad spectrum of standard piping sizes. As such, we offer standard sizes ranging from ½” pipe size to 72″. For non-standard sizes, we are more than willing to consider and address these requirements on a case-by-case basis, ensuring tailored solutions for your specific needs.
Yes. In general, the relevant dimensions are:
- Nominal pipe size
- Pad length
- Pad thickness
- Angle of coverage
Any of these dimensions can be customized per your specific needs. Refer to our SmartPad ordering form for more details.
The SmartPad exoskeleton shares the same material composition and shape as traditional epoxied-on FRP wear pads. Nonetheless, the entire system distinguishes itself by delivering significantly enhanced advantages in terms of installation ease, effortless removal, and the capability to facilitate visual inspections for external corrosion, all without the risk of faulty installations or the use of messy epoxy. Click here to find out more.
The SmartPad can be installed in seconds and ready to go into service immediately. There is minimum handling and zero epoxy cure time. One and done. Click Here to view our 2 minute installation video
Click here to download a printable illustrated installation procedure.
Our SmartPad can be installed in seconds and is ready to go into service immediately. Minimal training is required, the installation process is simple and straightforward. Refer to our installation videos and illustrated instructions sheet in our Resources page.
Yes, the SmartPad can be installed on new piping, existing piping, and even lines that are in operation. Since the installation procedure does not require any welding and only requires raising the pipe a mere 1” to 2” above its support structure, it can be easily installed on live lines.
No. The RedLineIPS SmartPad eliminates the need for epoxy or welding, opting for FRP straps and buckles that can be swiftly and effortlessly applied, removed for inspection, and reapplied, all within a matter of minutes. This approach significantly reduces inspection and maintenance costs. To gain a better understanding of how SmartPads compare to conventional FRP epoxied-on wear pads, you can review our feature comparison table, click here.
We do offer a few possible options for this request:
- You can explore the videos and printable illustrated installation instruction sheets available on our website for detailed visual demonstrations.
- We can arrange a hands-on demonstration at your facility, if feasible.
- We can conduct a live installation demonstration online.
For more information and to discuss your preferences, please do not hesitate to email us, and we’ll be delighted to assist you.
Absolutely. The SmartPad is meticulously designed from the ground up to serve as exceptional pipe supports, perfectly suited for a wide spectrum of applications, including offshore and onshore settings, as well as environments characterized by highly corrosive conditions.
The system is crafted from materials and components that already possess a well-established track record and reputation in the marketplace. These components have been thoughtfully combined or modified to effectively address the CUPS (Corrosion Under Pipe Supports) issue. Consequently, the system, much like its individual components, carries a durability rating spanning 20-30 years, with the potential for even longer service life.
In most SmartPad installations, the pipes are positioned horizontally on a support structure, leveraging the combined influence of the pipe’s weight, its contents, the force of gravity, and inherent friction, to firmly secure the pads in place. Additionally, each pad benefits from approximately 1,000 pounds of tension, thanks to the SmartBands’ tensioning (with a minimum of 500 pounds per band), further reinforcing their stability.
Moreover, the underside of the SmartPad, in direct contact with the support structure, is composed of FRP composite material boasting a Coefficient of Friction (CoF) of 0.2 or less. The saddle shape of the pad minimizes the contact surface between the pad and the support structure compared to the contact surface between the pad and the pipe, which have a much higher CoF. Consequently, when the pipe undergoes unplanned movement, the SmartPad smoothly glides over the steel support, remaining securely attached to the pipe, thanks to the lower CoF and the smaller footprint of the FRP pad in relation to the steel.
Furthermore, the pads feature sloped edges on each end that aid in their repositioning to their original location once the factors causing the movement are no longer in play. Lastly, even in the event of a significant disturbance that prompts pad displacement, they can be effortlessly removed and reinstalled in the correct location.
The SmartBands feature an infusion of robust continuous-strand FRP material that maintains tension force throughout the system’s lifespan. With its square-shaped teeth and grooves, they ensure optimum strength and retention, delivering a remarkable system strength of 5,973 lbf per band. Even after 25 years, the estimated break point remains at a substantial 855 pounds of force per band, demonstrating its enduring capability to secure the pads in place.
The FRP SmartPad exhibits exceptional chemical resistance capable of withstanding the harshest chemical environments. Also, the Hydroseal gasket can be tailored to meet specific chemical requirements, with options like PTFE and EPDM available that excel in the most corrosive settings. In scenarios involving particularly aggressive chemicals, an optional layer of protection can be added. This involves the application of PTFE strips around the gasket’s perimeter, further enhancing its resilience. Feel free to contact us for comprehensive details and personalized solutions tailored to your specific needs.
Currently, the SmartPad System is available from the following sources:
- Directly from Cogbill Construction, located in Texas, USA. Call or email us for more information.
- For Malaysia and nearby countries:
TKSS Services Sdn. Bhd. (TCT Group)
No 25-2-2, Jalan Setia Prima (A) U13/A, Setia Alam, Seksyen U13, 40170, Shah Alam, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
Phone: +603 3358 5199 Email: Sales@TCTGroup.co Website: www.TCTGroup.co
The cost of a SmartPad is in between the cost of a traditional glue-on FRP pads and metallic pipe shoes. The major savings are in the installation and overall cost of ownership. Email us for a quote for your specific project.
You can email us anytime at Info@SmartPadSystem.com, or call us at 409-768-1419, 6:30am to 5pm Monday to Friday, Central Standard Time zone.
Absolutely. Each SmartPad features a closed-cell Hydroseal gasket preinstalled on its inner surface. This flexible gasket has a texture akin to a sponge or cushion, effectively functioning as a “memory foam mattress” for pipes. When a SmartPad is positioned beneath a pipe and the bands are tightened, the gasket compresses, molding itself to the contours of hills and pits. It adeptly covers the hills and fills the pits, forming a seamless seal between the pad and the pipe surface. This robust seal provides protection against contaminants, including water molecules and other substances that encourage corrosion, such as oxygen. As a result, they are equally proficient in safeguarding both older pipes that have undergone corrosion treatment and brand-new piping installations.
SmartBands are crafted from a composite material that combines polymers with glass fiber strands. Remarkably, the glass strands possess a coefficient of thermal expansion quite similar to that of steel. Therefore, unless the bands have exceeded their Ultimate Tensile Strength (UTS) and are broken, they expand and contract at a rate akin to the steel they are clamped onto. Consequently, SmartBands effectively maintain their integrity even when subjected to temperature fluctuations.
Furthermore, the bands possess an elastic property that allows us to utilize roughly 0.7% of the allowable stretch during installation (remaining well below the 2% elastic limit). This ensures constant tension throughout the System’s service life, offering reliable performance in various thermal cycling applications.
We have extensive technical information, please contact us for more details.
The SmartPad is manufactured in the U.S.A. Some system components are manufactured in western Europe.
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