Fluid Categories: Fluid List : 5 Basic Categories

In a chemical plant there are no’s of fluids those aid in running the process operation. And there is always a need to classify these in groups for easy in design, operation and safety

Fluid services definition:

Fluid service is a general term, considering the application in piping system with taking in consideration the fluid properties, pressure, temperature and service condition.

In the early stage of the projects, the flows should be categorized by the means that discrimination among possible degrees of hazards.

ASME B31.3 includes three fluid service Categories and three special design considerations based on pressure, Temperature and Purity (Category D, Category M, High Pressure, High Purity, Elevated Temperature and Normal Fluid service), which provides a means of discriminating among possible degrees of hazard. Less stringent design, examination, and testing are permitted for fluid service of lower hazard and requirements that are more stringent are applied for more hazardous fluid service. All fluid services are considered Normal unless the owner designates them as other categories.

The code define fluid service as a general term concerning the application of a piping system, considering the combination of fluid properties (the fluid nature such as flammability, toxicity, etc.), operating condition, and other factors (such as experience, service conditions, and location involved) that establish the basis for design of the piping system.