Reinforcement Pads (Re-Pads):
A Re-Pad goes around the branch of a branch joint to reinforce or add strength to the joint. “A branch connection is the joining of two intersecting pieces of pipe that split a process flow. The pipe containing the hole for the branch connection typically referred to as the run pipe, is weakened by the opening made in it.” (aws.org)The Process:
After receiving the initial order to manufacture Re-Pads for a customer our Draftsman will retrieve the specs. The specs consist of what size the pipe is that the Re-Pad will attach to, what size the hole needs to be that the pipe will go through and the inside radius.
The Draftsman will then proceed to draw the Reinforcement Pad in a flat position on a program called plate and sheet
Once the drawing has been completed Cogbills plasma operator will begin to cut the Re-Pad out on the CNC plasma table or by hand using the hand torch.
After the completion of cutting the Re-Pad out we will roll it to a specific dimension, varying by the job. We generally use the press brake to complete this part of the process.