A Complete Guide To Understanding Fabricated MS Reducers

TYPES OF FABRICATED MS REDUCERS

• Concentric Reducer: This is conical in shape with both ends aligned along the centreline, designed to maintain a consistent centreline while reducing pipe size, making it ideal for vertical piping systems and fluid or gas transfer where uniform pressure and flow must be preserved.
• Eccentric Reducer: It is offset centreline with one flat side, it is suitable in horizontal pipe runs, it is designed to avoid air trapping in the horizontally running pipes because of the smooth nature of the fluid through the pipe and no entrapment of gas, as it promotes smooth flow of fluid in the pipe.

MANUFACTURING PROCESS

Manufacturing of fabricated MS reducers is normally done by cutting, bending and welding the plates, or pipe part to the required shape and dimension. It is done through:

• Material Selection: High-quality mild steel plates or pipes are selected based on required thickness and grade.
• Cutting and Forming: The material is cut into precise shapes using CNC machines or plasma cutters and then formed into conical or eccentric profiles.
• Welding: Skilled welders join the segments using techniques like MIG or TIG welding.
• Testing and Inspection: Finished reducers undergo non-destructive testing (NDT), dimensional checks, and pressure testing to ensure reliability and performance.

APPLICATIONS OF FABRICATED MS REDUCERS

Because of their strength and versatility, MS reducers are extensively utilised in many different industries:

• Oil & Gas Pipelines: To connect different diameter pipes in long-distance pipelines.
• Chemical and Petrochemical Plants: To control fluid flow in corrosive or high-pressure environments.
• Water Supply Systems: To manage transitions in pipe diameter in distribution lines. Power Plants: For steam, condensate, and water flow systems.
• HVAC Systems: To ensure smooth airflow and pressure balancing in ducting networks.

ADVANTAGES OF FABRICATED MS REDUCERS

• Customisable Sizes: Can be made to non-standard diameters and lengths.
• Cost-Effective: Mild steel is an economical material with good mechanical properties.
• Strong and Durable: Ideal for applications requiring high temperatures and pressures.
• Corrosion Protection: Can be coated or painted for additional resistance in harsh environments.
• Easy to fabricate and install: Compatible with various welding and assembly methods.

KEY CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING A FABRICATED REDUCER

• Material Grade: Choose a grade of MS suitable for the operating conditions.
• Type of Reducer: Decide between concentric and eccentric based on piping orientation.
• Thickness and Strength: Ensure compliance with relevant standards for wall thickness and pressure ratings.
• Surface Finish: Consider galvanising or painting if used in corrosive environments.

Fabricated MS reducers are indispensable components in any complex piping system, ensuring a reliable transition between different pipe sizes without compromising performance. Their versatility, strength, and affordability make them a popular choice across industries.ag