Grooved pipe joints rise to 43-storey challenge
Grinnell’s grooved pipe-jointing system is being used throughout the Providence Tower at New Provident Wharf near London’s Canary Wharf for its ability to ensure fast installation and avoid hot works. The system was selected by MEP contractor Briggs & Forrester.
One of the challenges was the height of the tower, 43 storeys, which, combined with the weight of the pipe and its contents would generate considerable loads on the structure and pipework.
Grinnell’s mechanical-services team presented drawings and design calculations to demonstrate the capabilities of the system for use in high-rise and high-load situations.
Another challenge was the installation of services in a confined plant space, and the mechanical joints can be assembled in situ. To save space, suction diffusers were installed to replace the straight pipe runs normally required to reduce turbulence.
The gaskets in flexible grooved couplings also manage the vibration of the liquid flowing in the pipes, so that flexible bellows or hoses are not needed.
As part of Grinnell’s technical support services, all on-site operators were trained to ensure safe and correct methods of pipe grooving and installation.
