100+ Piping Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

There are several types of primary supports in piping engineering.

• Primary supports are used to anchor and support the weight of the piping system.

• Common types of primary supports include pipe shoes, pipe clamps, and hangers.

• Pipe shoes are used to support the weight of the pipe at specific intervals.

• Pipe clamps are used to hold the pipe in place and prevent movement.

• Hangers are used to suspend the pipe from a structure or support beam.

• Other types of primary supports include sp...read more

To work in oil and gas refinery, one must have a strong understanding of piping systems, safety regulations, and industry standards.

• Obtain a degree in engineering or a related field

• Gain experience through internships or entry-level positions

• Familiarize yourself with industry-specific software and tools

• Stay updated on safety regulations and best practices

• Develop strong communication and problem-solving skills

Before hydrotest, the requirements include completion of piping installation, flushing, cleaning, and pressure testing.

• Completion of piping installation to ensure all components are in place

• Flushing to remove any debris or contaminants from the piping system

• Cleaning to ensure the piping system is free from any foreign materials

• Pressure testing to verify the integrity of the piping system under operating conditions

There are several types of specifications in piping engineering.

• Process specifications

• Material specifications

• Dimensional specifications

• Welding specifications

• Testing specifications

• Coating specifications

• Insulation specifications

Acceptance limit for column alignment is typically 1/500th of the column height.

• The acceptance limit for column alignment is usually specified in the project specifications.

• It is typically 1/500th of the column height.

• This means that for a 20-meter column, the maximum allowable deviation from vertical is 40 mm.

• Alignment is critical for the proper functioning of the column and to prevent damage to the structure.

• Alignment can be checked using laser alignment tools or plumb bobs...read more

There are several types of reducers used in piping systems.

• Reducers are used to connect pipes of different sizes.

• Common types of reducers include concentric reducers and eccentric reducers.

• Concentric reducers have a symmetrical shape and maintain the centerline of the pipe.

• Eccentric reducers have an offset shape and are used when there is a need to maintain the same level.

• Other types of reducers include reducing tees and reducing crosses.

Yes, the iso can be prepared with the help of GAD and P&ID.

• GAD (General Arrangement Drawing) provides the overall layout of the piping system.

• P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagram) shows the detailed information about the piping components and their connections.

• By referring to the GAD and P&ID, a piping engineer can create an isometric drawing (iso) that represents the 3D view of the piping system.

• The iso includes information about pipe lengths, fittings, valves, and other...read more

Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS) are detailed documents that outline the specific procedures and requirements for welding operations.

• WPS provide instructions on the welding process, materials, equipment, and techniques to be used.

• They specify the pre-welding and post-welding activities, such as cleaning, preheating, and inspection.

• WPS also define the welding parameters, including current, voltage, travel speed, and filler metal.

• These specifications ensure consistency, q...read more

The ASME code for process piping is ASME B31.3

• ASME B31.3 is the code for process piping design, construction, and inspection

• It covers materials, fabrication, assembly, erection, testing, and maintenance

• The code also includes requirements for pressure testing, welding, and nondestructive examination

• ASME B31.3 is widely used in the oil and gas, chemical, and power industries

Yes, I ensure fabrication and erection are done according to standards and specifications.

• I always refer to the project specifications and standards to ensure compliance

• I conduct regular inspections during fabrication and erection to verify adherence to standards

• I work closely with the quality control team to address any deviations from standards

• I communicate any issues or concerns regarding standards to the project management team

• Examples: ASME B31.3 for piping fabrication, ...read more

Nozzle orientation height refers to the vertical distance between the centerline of a nozzle and a reference point.

• Nozzle orientation height is an important parameter in piping engineering.

• It is used to determine the elevation of a nozzle in relation to other components in a piping system.

• The height is measured from a reference point, which is typically a horizontal plane or a specific equipment datum.

• Nozzle orientation height is crucial for proper alignment and installation ...read more

There are several types of gaskets used in piping engineering.

• There are different types of gaskets based on their material composition, such as rubber gaskets, metal gaskets, and non-metallic gaskets.

• Gaskets can also be classified based on their shape, including spiral wound gaskets, ring joint gaskets, and solid gaskets.

• Each type of gasket has its own specific application and sealing properties.

• For example, rubber gaskets are commonly used for sealing against water or gas, w...read more

The number of inlet or outlets in a heat exchanger depends on its design and purpose.

• Heat exchangers can have multiple inlet and outlet connections.

• The number of inlets and outlets can vary based on the type and size of the heat exchanger.

• Some heat exchangers may have separate inlets and outlets for different fluids.

• In a shell and tube heat exchanger, there are typically two inlets and two outlets, one for each fluid.

• Plate heat exchangers can have multiple inlets and outlets ...read more

R is dimensionless, P&ID symbols vary but common ones include valves, pumps, and instruments.

• R is the ratio of the resistance of a material to the resistance of a standard material.

• P&ID symbols are used to represent equipment and instrumentation in a process flow diagram.

• Common P&ID symbols include valves, pumps, instruments, and tanks.

Layout details of support type equipment in previous project

• Support type equipment included pipe supports, hangers, and anchors

• Layout involved determining locations for supports based on piping design and stress analysis

• Consideration given to weight, thermal expansion, and vibration of piping system

• Supports were designed to ensure proper alignment and stability of piping system

GAD Drawing stands for General Arrangement Drawing, which provides an overall layout of the piping system.

• GAD Drawing shows the overall layout of the piping system, including equipment, piping components, and their connections.

• It helps in visualizing the arrangement of pipes, valves, fittings, and other components in a piping system.

• GAD Drawing is essential for planning, designing, and constructing piping systems in various industries such as oil & gas, chemical, and power pl...read more

Pinging in pipeline ASME CODE refers to the process of using ultrasonic testing to detect defects or anomalies in the pipeline.

• Pinging involves sending ultrasonic waves through the pipeline to detect any abnormalities in the material or welds.

• This technique is commonly used in the inspection of pipelines to ensure they meet the standards set by the ASME CODE.

• Pinging helps identify potential issues such as cracks, corrosion, or other defects that could compromise the integrity...read more

Manufacturing methods of pipes include seamless, welded, and extruded processes.

• Seamless pipes are made by piercing a solid billet of metal and then rolling it to form a hollow tube.

• Welded pipes are made by welding together two ends of a metal strip or plate to form a tube.

• Extruded pipes are made by forcing a metal billet through a die to create the desired shape and size.

• Other methods include spiral welding, longitudinal welding, and centrifugal casting.

There are two main types of cranes: mobile cranes and tower cranes.

• Mobile cranes are versatile and can be easily moved from one location to another. They are commonly used for construction projects.

• Tower cranes are fixed to the ground and are often used for tall buildings or structures that require heavy lifting at great heights.

There are several types of piperacks used in piping engineering.

• Piperacks can be classified based on their design and function.

• Common types include single-tier piperacks, multi-tier piperacks, and modular piperacks.

• Single-tier piperacks are used for smaller piping systems, while multi-tier piperacks are used for larger systems.

• Modular piperacks are pre-fabricated and can be easily assembled on-site.

• Other types include bridge piperacks, cantilever piperacks, and trapeze pipera...read more

There are several types of supports used in piping engineering.

• Rigid supports: These provide fixed support to the piping system, preventing movement.

• Flexible supports: These allow for movement and absorb thermal expansion and contraction.

• Hanger supports: These are used to suspend the piping system from above.

• Spring supports: These use springs to support the weight of the piping system.

• Snubber supports: These are used to control excessive movement caused by seismic or dynamic ...read more

Bevel angle of piping refers to the angle formed between the prepared edge of the pipe and a plane perpendicular to the pipe axis.

• Bevel angle is typically specified in degrees, such as 30° or 45°.

• It is important for welding processes to ensure proper fit-up and joint strength.

• Different bevel angles may be required based on the material being used and the welding procedure being employed.

Welding machines are used to join materials together using heat and pressure. The choice of welding machine and material depends on the specific requirements of the project.

• Different types of welding machines are used for different welding processes such as MIG, TIG, and stick welding.

• The material being welded determines the type of welding machine and welding process to be used.

• Factors such as material thickness, joint design, and desired weld quality also influence the choi...read more

Pile load test is performed to determine the load carrying capacity of a pile.

• Select a test pile and install it to the required depth

• Apply a load to the pile using a hydraulic jack or kentledge

• Measure the settlement of the pile under load using dial gauges or LVDTs

• Plot the load-settlement curve and determine the ultimate load capacity

• Repeat the test for multiple piles to ensure consistency

Iron carbide diagram shows the relationship between temperature, carbon content, and phases of iron and iron carbide.

• Also known as the Fe-C diagram

• Displays the transformation of iron and iron carbide at different temperatures and carbon concentrations

• Consists of three regions: austenite, ferrite, and cementite

• Used to determine the microstructure of steel and cast iron

• Helps in predicting the properties of steel and cast iron

The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or converted.

• Energy can be transferred between systems or converted from one form to another.

• The total energy in a closed system remains constant.

• Mathematically expressed as: ΔU = Q - W, where ΔU is the change in internal energy, Q is heat added to the system, and W is work done by the system.

• Example: When a gas is compressed, work is done on the gas which increases its interna...read more

Pipe thickness can be calculated using various methods such as ASME B31.3 code, API 570 code, and engineering calculations.

• Calculate based on pressure and temperature requirements specified in ASME B31.3 code

• Use API 570 code for calculating minimum required thickness for piping in-service

• Perform engineering calculations considering factors like material properties, design pressure, and corrosion allowance

• Consider additional factors such as external loads, thermal expansion, a...read more

Coordination in piping engineering refers to the process of ensuring that all components of a piping system work together seamlessly.

• Coordination involves planning, designing, and implementing piping systems to ensure they meet project requirements.

• It includes communication and collaboration with other engineering disciplines to integrate piping systems with overall project design.

• Coordination also involves resolving conflicts or clashes between piping components or with othe...read more

ASME B31.3 is the code for pipes made of stainless steel (SS).

• ASME B31.3 is the code for process piping made of SS.

• It covers design, materials, fabrication, testing, and inspection.

• It is widely used in the chemical, petroleum, and pharmaceutical industries.

• Other codes for SS pipes include ASTM A312, ASTM A358, and ASTM A409.

Types of fittings include elbows, tees, reducers, couplings, and flanges.

• Elbows: used to change the direction of the pipe

• Tees: used to create a branch in the pipeline

• Reducers: used to connect pipes of different sizes

• Couplings: used to connect two pipes together

• Flanges: used to connect pipes, valves, and other equipment

QMS system stands for Quality Management System. It is a set of policies, processes, and procedures implemented by an organization to ensure quality in its products or services.

• QMS system is designed to meet customer requirements and improve customer satisfaction.

• It includes quality planning, quality control, quality assurance, and quality improvement.

• QMS system helps in identifying and correcting quality issues, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency.

• It involves documenta...read more

Support-4 refers to a type of pipe support used in piping systems to provide stability and prevent movement.

• Support-4 is a specific type of pipe support used in piping systems.

• It is designed to provide stability and prevent movement of the pipe.

• Support-4 is typically used in locations where additional support is needed to prevent sagging or shifting of the pipe.

• Examples of Support-4 include clamps, hangers, and brackets that are used to secure the pipe in place.

P&ID stands for Piping and Instrumentation Diagram, while PFD stands for Process Flow Diagram. They are both used in engineering to represent processes and systems.

• P&ID shows the piping of the process flow system, including the equipment and instrumentation used.

• PFD shows the overall flow of the process, including major equipment and control loops.

• P&ID includes more detailed information like pipe sizes, materials, and instrumentation symbols.

• PFD is more of a high-level overvi...read more

There are several types of piping used in various industries.

• Process piping

• Utility piping

• Hygienic piping

• High-pressure piping

• Low-pressure piping

• Underground piping

• Aboveground piping

A flare system is a safety device used in refineries and chemical plants to burn off excess gases and prevent explosions.

• Flare systems are used to burn off excess gases that cannot be processed or stored.

• They are designed to prevent explosions by safely disposing of flammable gases.

• Flare systems are typically used in refineries, chemical plants, and oil rigs.

• They consist of a tall stack with a burner at the top, which ignites the gases and burns them off.

• Flare systems are an ...read more

Piping material code refers to the standards and specifications used for selecting materials for piping systems.

• Piping material codes are used to ensure the proper selection of materials based on factors like pressure, temperature, and fluid being transported.

• Common piping material codes include ASME B31.3 for process piping, ASTM for materials specifications, and API for oil and gas piping.

• These codes provide guidelines for material properties, fabrication, testing, and inst...read more

Pipe is measured by its inner diameter, while tube is measured by its outer diameter.

• Pipe is used to transport fluids or gases, while tube is often used for structural purposes.

• Pipe is typically manufactured to specific industry standards, while tube may have more variation in size and thickness.

• Examples: PVC pipe for plumbing, steel tube for construction.

Types of flanges include weld neck, slip-on, socket weld, lap joint, threaded, blind, and spectacle blind.

• Weld neck flange: used for high pressure applications

• Slip-on flange: easy to align and install

• Socket weld flange: for small bore piping

• Lap joint flange: used with stub end fittings

• Threaded flange: for low pressure applications

• Blind flange: used to close off piping systems

• Spectacle blind flange: used in piping systems where flow needs to be monitored or controlled

Cryogenic piping details are specified in codes like ASME B31.3 and ASME B31.1.

• Cryogenic piping is designed to handle low-temperature fluids like liquid nitrogen, oxygen, and argon.

• The piping material should have low thermal conductivity and high toughness to prevent brittle fracture.

• The design should consider thermal expansion and contraction, insulation, and support.

• The codes specify requirements for materials, fabrication, testing, and inspection.

• Examples of cryogenic pipi...read more

A piping system is a network of pipes used to transport fluids or gases from one location to another.

• Piping systems are used in various industries such as oil and gas, chemical, and power generation.

• They can be made of different materials such as steel, copper, or plastic.

• Piping systems can be designed to handle different pressures and temperatures.

• They can include various components such as valves, pumps, and fittings.

• Examples of piping systems include water supply systems, ...read more

Welding filar is a type of welding wire used in the welding process.

• It is a consumable wire electrode used in welding.

• It is made of various materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and copper.

• The wire is fed through a welding gun and melted to join two metal pieces together.

• The size and type of welding filar used depends on the type of metal being welded and the welding process being used.

A tank is a container used for storing liquids or gases, while a vessel is a broader term that includes tanks and other types of containers.

• A tank is typically used for storing large quantities of liquids or gases, such as water tanks or fuel tanks.

• A vessel can refer to any type of container used for holding substances, including tanks, pressure vessels, and reactors.

• Tanks are usually designed for storage purposes, while vessels may have additional functions like mixing, heat...read more

I have 5 years of experience in oil and gas industry.

• Worked as a piping engineer for 5 years in oil and gas industry

• Experience in designing and analyzing piping systems

• Knowledge of industry standards and codes such as ASME, API, and ANSI

• Familiarity with various materials used in piping systems

• Experience in project management and coordination with other departments

• Completed various training programs related to oil and gas industry

• Worked on projects for major oil and gas compan...read more

Valve access height in pipeline is critical for maintenance and operation.

• Valve access height should be at a convenient level for maintenance and operation.

• It should be easily accessible without the need for ladders or scaffolding.

• The height should be determined based on the valve type and size.

• Valve access height should also consider safety regulations and standards.

• Examples of valve access height requirements: 1.2 meters for ball valves, 1.5 meters for gate valves.

Pipes are used to transport fluids or gases, while tubes are used for structural applications or heat transfer.

• Pipes are measured by their inside diameter, while tubes are measured by their outside diameter.

• Pipes are typically round in shape, while tubes can be round, square, or rectangular.

• Pipes are commonly used in plumbing, HVAC systems, and oil and gas industries, while tubes are used in construction, automotive, and aerospace industries.

Types of piping drawings include Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs), Isometric drawings, and Orthographic drawings.

• Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) show the piping system along with instruments and control devices.

• Isometric drawings show the 3D representation of the piping system.

• Orthographic drawings show the top, front, and side views of the piping system.

Types of instruments used in piping engineering and their applications

• Pressure gauges - measure pressure in pipes to ensure safe operation

• Flow meters - measure the flow rate of fluids in pipes for monitoring purposes

• Temperature sensors - monitor the temperature of fluids in pipes to prevent overheating

• Level indicators - indicate the level of fluids in tanks connected to pipes for control purposes

• Control valves - regulate the flow of fluids in pipes to maintain desired conditi...read more