SKID STRUCTURAL DESIGN

Overview

Skid structural design involves the creation of a platform, framework, or foundation, commonly known as a "skid," that supports equipment, piping, and instruments. Skids are often used in industrial plants to transport modular units of equipment or entire systems. The structural design of the skid ensures that it can support the weight, vibrations, and operational conditions of the equipment it carries while also being easily transportable and installable.

Objectives of Skid Structural Design

The main objectives of skid structural design are:

• Ensuring the structural integrity and safety of the skid during transportation and operation.
• Optimizing space utilization by arranging equipment in a compact and organized manner.
• Providing the necessary supports for various components (e.g., pumps, compressors, valves) and ensuring they are easily accessible.
• Designing the skid for ease of transportation and installation, often considering factors such as lifting, loading, and offloading.
• Complying with relevant engineering standards and codes, ensuring the skid can withstand environmental and operational stresses.

Key Design Considerations

The following considerations are crucial in skid structural design:

• Load Analysis: The skid must be designed to support the weight of the equipment and materials that will be mounted on it, including static and dynamic loads (e.g., vibrations during operation).
• Material Selection: Materials must be selected based on the environment, loading conditions, and corrosion resistance. Steel is commonly used, but other materials may be considered depending on requirements.
• Space Optimization: Efficiently arranging components to make the best use of available space while allowing for maintenance access and ease of installation.
• Transportation and Handling: The skid design must ensure that it can be easily transported via truck, rail, or sea, with provisions for lifting (e.g., lifting lugs or cranes).
• Vibration and Dynamic Loads: The skid should be designed to handle vibrations and dynamic loads that result from the operation of pumps, compressors, or other equipment.
• Environmental Factors: Consideration must be given to environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity, corrosive atmosphere) that could impact the materials and design of the skid.

Skid Design Process

The skid structural design process typically includes the following steps:

• Conceptual Design: This is the initial phase, where the layout, size, and overall design of the skid are determined. The type of equipment and operational requirements are assessed at this stage.
• Load Calculation and Analysis: Detailed analysis of loads, including static loads (weight of equipment) and dynamic loads (vibrations, operating conditions) is performed. This helps in determining the dimensions, material strength, and structural components needed.
• Structural Design: The skid’s frame, supports, and brackets are designed. The materials and dimensions of each part are selected based on load calculations, and a detailed structural design is developed.
• Stress and Safety Analysis: A stress analysis is conducted to ensure the skid will not deform or fail under load. This may involve the use of software for finite element analysis (FEA) or hand calculations.
• Detailing: The final step involves creating detailed drawings and specifications for fabrication and assembly. These drawings include all structural components, dimensions, weld details, bolt sizes, and material specifications.

Types of Skid Structures

Skid structures can vary in design based on their intended use and the type of equipment they support. Common types include:

• Process Skids: These skids are designed to house a complete processing system, such as pumps, heat exchangers, or reactors, often used in chemical or oil and gas plants.
• Compressor Skids: Skids designed to house compressors and related components, commonly used in oil and gas, HVAC systems, and industrial air compression.
• Generator Skids: These are skids designed to support power generation equipment such as generators, transformers, and other electrical components.
• Modular Skids: These are pre-fabricated units that can be easily transported and assembled at the job site. They are often used for temporary setups or modular plant systems.

Importance of Proper Skid Design

Proper skid design ensures the following benefits:

• Safety: Skids are designed to be stable, strong, and safe for both personnel and equipment. Proper design minimizes the risk of failure or accidents during operation or transportation.
• Cost Efficiency: Well-designed skids reduce the need for modifications during fabrication or installation, lowering costs in both the short and long term.
• Ease of Installation: A modular and compact skid design allows for easier transportation, quicker installation, and faster commissioning of the equipment it supports.
• Maintenance Access: Skids are designed with easy access to equipment for routine maintenance, minimizing downtime and operational costs.
• Compliance: Proper design ensures that the skid meets relevant industry codes and standards, ensuring legal and regulatory compliance.