ISSUE NO. 99-02 Aug.

19, 1999

What is a “Slug flow”?

Slug flow is a condition created by a sudden
flow of high velocity gas over the surface of a
slowly moving liquid in the pipe. This Pick-ups.
produces a liquid wave which can become a Pick-ups can be considered if
slug if it crests at the top of the pipe. The pipe span are not met but the
impact of this liquid slug, moving at the designer should be aware of
the conditions of both the line
velocity of a blowdown gas, generates to be picked–up and the line
tremendous force when exerted on an elbow. picking up because it may act
Process and Control systems Engineers are the ones who determine slug flow. as restraint on either of the
For piping systems with slug flow, all changes of pipe run direction shall require lines. The designer should
restraints. Standard guides and anchor are normally inadequate for restraining slug also consider if its thermal
flow. Special design is required. Structural “T” supports are usually tall and tend to expansion would be in the
offer little resistance to horizontal loads. same or opposite direction. It
Formulas for the calculation of “slug” force that would be acting on every bend can should be noted that piping
be found systems with temperatures
more than 200F are not
When do piping systems require loops? recommended for pick ups.
Loads caused by the “picked-
Piping systems with high temperature expands. The objective in piping design is
up” lines on stress required
not to restrain this expansion but to redirect, absorb and control its direction systems should also be
without overstressing the system. Loop absorbs piping expansion. state that included on pipe stress
straight pipes producing expansion growth of more than 12 inches require stress sketches. Any extra loads
loops should be covered in the
stress analysis.

…that for uniform load in a

simply supported span, the
formula for load calculation is
W = wl

Where:
W= Total weight between
supports (lbs)
W= weight per foot of pipe
(include water for test loads
and include commodity and
insulation for operating
l= Distance between supports
(in feet)