Age 10802

Engineering Encyclopedia
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
Drafting Symbols - II
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramco’s
employees. Any material contained in this document which is not already
in the public domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or
disclosed to third parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without the
written permission of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi
Aramco.
Chapter : Drafting For additional information on this subject, contact

File Reference: AGE10802 N. H.Alahaimer on 874 - 0876
Engineering Encyclopedia Drafting
CONTENTS PAGES
Information
Piping Drawings 1
Straight Tees 4
Reducing Tees 5
Crosses 6
Concentric Reducer 7
Eccentric Reducer 8
Piping And Valves 9
Spectacle Plate (Or Spectacle Blind) 23
Piping Detail Sheets 37
Valve Types 46
Automatically Operated Valves 69
Pneumatically (Air) Operated Valves 71
Pneumatic Actuator Valves 72
Electrically Operated Valves 78
Emergency Shutdown Valves (Zv) 80
Piping And Instrument Diagrams (P&Id’s) 85
Piping And Instrument Diagrams 101
Pressure Control Systems 111
Temperature Control Systems 116
Level Control Systems 118
Flow Control Systems 121
Process Flow Diagrams 123
Computing Relays 127
Operation Of Relays 133
Plant Equipment 139
Cone Roof Tank 140
Floating Roof Tank 140
Piping Data Sheets 148
Service 151
Service Groups 152
Work Aid 153
Forged Steel Flanges 154
Work Aids 157
Steel Wedge Gate Valves 158
Glossary 159
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

PIPING DRAWINGS
Piping can be drawn either as single line or as double line. Figure 1 shows examples. The
drawings are of elbows connected to lengths of pipe. Elbows are used to change the direction of
piping.
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

PIPING DRAWINGS (Cont'd)
Elbows are made in both long and short radius (LR and SR). The dimensions for these are
standard and may be found on charts (see Figure 3).
Reducing elbows are also used. See Figure 2. Reducing fittings reduce the diameter of the
pipeline. They are always drawn double line.
Figure 2

Figure 3

STRAIGHT TEES
Tees are used to make a branch in a pipeline as shown in Figure 4. They are of standard sizes (as
was shown on Figure 3). Straight tees have the same branch diameter as the main diameter.

REDUCING TEES
Note that the branch may be reduced in size (See Figure 5) reducing tee dimensions are also
standard as we saw in Figure 3.

CROSSES
These are used to make two branches, as shown in Figure 6 below. They may also be reduced
and are of standard dimensions (as shown in Figure 3).

CONCENTRIC REDUCER
Concentric reducers are used to reduce pipe diameter. The height from ground to bottom of pipe
(BOP) is changed.

ECCENTRIC REDUCER
Eccentric reducers (Figure 8) are used to reduce pipe diameter. The height from ground to BOP
remains unaltered.
Reducers are made to standard dimensions, as was shown on Figure 3.

PIPING AND VALVES
Piping
Pipe is manufactured in random length, which is about 20'-0" and in double random length,
which is about 40'-0". Double random lengths are most commonly purchased by Saudi Aramco.
Pipe dimensions are set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). In these standards
the outside diameter of pipe remains constant for the various diameters. However, the inside
diameter changes in accordance with pipe wall thickness. Wall thickness is designated by
schedule numbers. There are several schedule numbers for most pipe diameters. Pipe is also
manufactured as standard weight, denoted by S; extra strong, denoted by X; or double extra
strong, denoted by XX.
The table below shows examples of schedule numbers as listed on piping data sheets.
NOMINAL PIPE SIZE OUTSIDE DIAMETER SCHEDULE WALL THICKNESS

(inches) (inches) NUMBER (inches)
__________________________________________________________________________________________
60 .406
8 8.625 100 .593
160 .906
__________________________________________________________________________________________
20 .250
12 12.750 80 .687
140 1.125
__________________________________________________________________________________________
10 .250
14 14.000 80 .593
160 1.406
Figures 9 and 10 are comprehensive pipe data sheets and show where the above information may
be found for all pipe diameters.



Piping (Cont'd)
The nominal (or in name only) pipe size is the size referred to when ordering or speaking about
piping.
A study of the piping charts shows, as an example, that the outside diameter of an "8-inch pipe"
is actually 8.625 inches. This outside diameter is constant for all "8-inch" pipes. The inside
diameter of the pipe, however, varies with the schedule number that is being used. It is possible,
therefore, to speak of an 8-inch pipe when, in fact, neither the inside nor the outside diameter is 8
inches.
This convention changes for pipes over 12 inches. In these cases, the nominal pipe size refers to
the exact outside diameter of the pipe.
The material of which pipe is made is designated by its grade. Mild steel pipe, which is
commonly used by Saudi Aramco, is known as Grade B and is American Petroleum Institute
Standard API-5L. It has a yield stress of 30,000 lb/in2. Alloy steel pipes have grades which are
directly related to their yield stresses. For example, grade X-60 is pipe which has a yield stress
of 60,000 lb/in2; grade X-42 has a yield stress of 42,000 lb/in2, and so on. The number in the
grade always refers to the number of thousands of pounds per square inch of the yield stress of
the pipe material.
Grade specifications are given in accordance with American Petroleum Institute (API) standards.
Pipeline Class or Rating
The class, or rating, of a pipeline is a measure of the strength of the line. Its value depends on
the pressure and temperature at which the line must operate. For this reason the class of a
pipeline is also sometimes called its pressure-temperature rating.

Classes are spoken of in pound units, or pound-pressure # units, that is, we speak of a class of
150 lb or 150#, and so on. Classes are determined by the American Standards Institute (ANSI)
or the American Petroleum Institute (API). These standards are shown below:
Class 150 of ANSI B16.5

Class 125 of ANSI B16.1 or Class 75 of API 605
Class 800 of API 602
Note that the classes are only nominal. For example, a line rated at 150# can operate at a
pressure of 275 psig at 100°F. As the temperature rises the allowable operating pressure falls.
At 750°F, the maximum working pressure is only 100 psig.
All valves and flanges that are connected to a pipeline must be of the correct class for the line.

Flanges
Flanges are used to connect such things as valves to pipelines. There are a number of different
kinds of flange, but the most commonly used by Saudi Aramco is the weld neck (WN) flange.
Two types of WN flanges are used. One is the raised face (RF) flange shown in Figure 11. The
other is the ring joint (RJ) flange shown in Figure 12. The RJ flange has an annular groove cut
into one of its faces.


Flanges (Cont'd)
These two types of flanges use different kinds of gaskets in order to obtain a leak-free seal
between the flange and valve. The RF gasket is flat like a disk and, in pipe work, may be made
of stainless steel. It is placed between the raised faces of the flange and valve, as shown in
Figure 13.

Flanges (Cont'd)
The RJ gasket is a metal ring, either oval or octagonal in cross section, which fits into an annular
groove and gives a tight seal, as shown in Figure 14.

Flanges (Cont'd)
Flanges have standard dimensions according to size and class. These can be found on charts
such as those shown in Figures 15 (for RF) and 16 (for RJ).

Flanges (Cont'd)

Flanges (Cont'd)
When calculating piping lengths, the thickness of raised face gaskets and the gaps (G) left by
ring joint gaskets must be taken into account. Values of gaps can be found on charts.
Figure 12 shows that the length 'F' on a RF flange (dimension 'F' in the standards chart) includes
a 1/16" Raised Face for 150 and 300-pound flanges. However, for higher rated flanges,
dimension 'F' does not include the 1/4-inch Raised Face that is on these flanges.

Flanges (Cont'd)
Flange Bolting is shown in Figure 17. Note that the bolts always straddle the centerline.

The symbol for flanges is shown below (Figure 18).

SPECTACLE PLATE (OR SPECTACLE BLIND)
Spectacle blinds are often referred to as spec blinds or spec plates . A spectacle blind is shown
in Figure 19. They can be fitted into pipelines at flanged joints. By changing the position of the
blind (from open to closed) the flow can be totally stopped. RF or RJ flanges can be used with
spectacle blinds. If RJ flanges are used the spectacle blind will have the necessary annular
grooves machined into it.
Figure 20 shows the symbols used to depict the spectacle blind.

Determine Pipe Lengths
When determining the lengths of piping needed on a system, the standard dimensions of the
valves and other fittings must be taken into account. These standards are found in piping
manuals and cover the dimensions of valves, flanges, gaskets, reducers, and elbows. Examples
of the type of standards for a gate valve are as shown in the chart, Figure 21. Similar charts exist
for all types of valves.

Determine Pipe Lengths (Cont'd)
Standard dimensions also exist for valve handles and for the extent of their travel. Such
dimensions are important when valves are to be fitted close to other equipment. Figure 22 shows
a chart giving examples of values for valve travel. Note the symbol for showing the valve handle
of an open valve.

Pipeline Numbers
All pipelines are identified by code numbers made up of four parts as shown in Figure 23:
a) Size of pipe diameter (Figure 23).
b) A letter to denote service as shown by Standard Drawing AE 36204 (Figure 24).
c) A numerical serial number, starting at 1, to identify different pipelines at the plant.
d) Pipe specification.
Pipe Specification
The prefix number of the pipe specification denotes the class of the line. Remember, the class is
a measure of the strength of the line, depending on the pressure and temperature the line must
withstand. All fittings, flanges and valves must be the correct class for the line. Classes range
from 150 to 2500#, as shown below. Classes are spoken of in pound units, that is, we speak of
150-pound flanges and so on. They may also be referred to as pound pressure and written as
150# etc.
Prefix number identifies the rating or class as follows:
1 - Class 150 of ANSI B16.5

2 - Class 125 of ANSI B16.1 or Class 75 of API 605
8 - Class 800 of API 602
When no prefix number is shown, the specification is for a non-pressure service.

PIPE SPECIFICATION
NUMERICAL SERIAL NUMBER
SERVICE
PIPE SIZE
6" - P - 186 - 3A1B

PREFIX NUMBER (CLASS OR RATING)
SERVICE GROUP
SUFFIX NUMBER (FLANGE TYPE)
TERMINAL LETTER (IF ANY)
LINE NUMBERS
FIGURE 23

ARABIAN AMERICAN OIL COMPANY

ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
A = AIR OTHER THAN INSTRUMENT

BD = BLOW DOWN
C = CHEMICALS
CW = CHILLED WATER
E = EXHAUST STEAM
FG = FUEL GAS
FO = FUEL OIL
FW = FIREWATER
IA = INSTRUMENT AIR
P = OIL & OIL PRODUCTS
PO = PUMP OUT
R = REFRIGERANT
RL = RELIEF LINE
S = STEAM
SC = STEAM CONDENSATE
SR = SEWER
SW = SALT WATER
W = WATER
LETTER DESIGNATIONS FOR LINE NUMBERS
FIGURE 24

Pipe Specification (Cont'd)
The service group (see Figure 25) is denoted by a letter. It gives additional information about
the properties or conditions of the line service. For example, if the service is denoted by P, then
Figure 24 shows that this is oil and oil products. This means that the service group given in the
pipe specification would be A, to denote that the service (oil and oil products) is pressure service,
non-corrosive and includes hazardous material (H2S).
A - Pressure service, non-corrosive, including hazardous fluids

C - Corrosive and special services, reserved for piping specifications
not covered in Attachments A through N
D - Low-pressure utilities, non-corrosive
E - Low-pressure utilities, corrosive
F - Non-pressure sewers
G - Small diameter piping around pumps and compressors
H - Low-pressure hydrocarbon service
L - Low-temperature service
N - Plumbing drain and vent systems in buildings
FIGURE 25 - SERVICE GROUPS
The suffix number denotes the type of flanges that are used on the line.
Suffix number identifies flange facing as follows:
1 - Raised (RF) (for high pressure)

2 - Ring joint (RJ) (for very high pressure)
3 - Flat face (for low pressure)
A terminal letter may sometimes be used to distinguish between piping which has the same three
symbols.

Piping Drawing
Single line drafting is most commonly used. It allows the drawings to be completed quicker and
therefore reduces costs.
Saudi Aramco uses two types of drawings to show process piping which is to be fabricated.
These are:
1. Isometric drawings
2. Piping detail sheets
Isometric drawings. These are pictorial drawings. They use axes which are vertical and at 30°
to the horizontal. The sketch of a rectangular box is an example of an isometric drawing (Figure
26).
On isometric drawings the piping is not drawn to any scale.

Piping Drawing (Cont'd)
Isometric drawings are prepared on Saudi Aramco Form 2825. This form is a size B drafting
vellum (20 x 28 inches or 508 x 711 mm). It has the isometric axes already printed on it. Figure
27 shows a Saudi Aramco piping isometric drawn on Form 2825.

Mark Numbers
When a line is divided into pieces for fabrication, each piece must be given its own
identification, or code number, called a mark number. The mark number is made up of the last
three digits of the isometric drawing number combined with an alphabetically arranged suffix
letter. The letters begin with 'A'. 'O' and 'I' are not used. For example, if a drawing number is
NA012345, then mark numbers for pipe pieces would be 345-A, 345-B and so on.
On the piping isometric drawing, each piping system is divided into sections. Each section is
identified with a basic line number and a numeric suffix, starting with 1. For example, P1-1, P1-
2, P1-3. The sections are chosen according to different flow paths.
Figures 28 and 29 show the information tables which are found on the right-hand side of Form
2825.
Note 1 on the tables states that material shown on the isometric drawing by a broken line and
spools listed in the Saudi Aramco fabrication list are not to be supplied by the vendor, that is,
they are to be field fabricated by Saudi Aramco pipeline maintenance crews. (A spool is a piece
of piping which has a flange at one or both ends.)
Material shown by a solid line is vendor supplied and comes under direct charge budgeting.
However, when all piping is to be field fabricated, only solid lines are used.
The weights of direct charge spools, (i.e. vendor supplied spools,) are recorded in the proper
column.
Notes 2 through 5 are self-explanatory.



Note 6 is gasket allowance, i.e. the allowance made for gasket thickness (for RF) and gap (for
RJ) when calculating pipe lengths.
Note 7 gives pipe size, schedule and specification according to American Petroleum Institute
(API) standards.
Note 8 tells whether or not the pipeline welding has been stress relieved and whether all welds
(100%) were x-rayed or if only spot (or random) x-ray tests were made.
Note 9 relates to the hydrotesting of the piping. In this test, water is pumped into the piping to a
pressure which stresses the pipe material to 90% of its yield stress, according to the formula:
p = pressure (lb/in2)
P = (0.9) 2t σ where σ = Yield stress of pipe (lb/in2)
d t = Pipe wall thickness (inches)
d = Pipe outside diameter (inches)
The pressure is held for a number of hours (usually a minimum of 2) and the pressure reading is
taken at the end of the test. If no pressure drop has occurred, the line is accepted as being leak-
free and of sufficient strength to withstand process pressure.
It should be noted that the hydrotest pressure for a pipe may be higher than fittings in the line
(valves and flanges) can withstand. In such cases, the hydrotest pressure must be reduced to the
limit of the weakest part of the line. Hydrotest pressures for fittings are standard and may be
found on standard charts.
Note 10 (Figure 28) gives information about the piping material, the class of the line, the service
group, and the type of flanges being used.

The symbol below gives the actual directions that the isometric axes are taken to represent
(Figure 30).
UP
AWAY AWAY
TOWARD TOWARD
DOWN
FIGURE 30

PIPING DETAIL SHEETS
A piping detail sheet (Saudi Aramco Form 2519, Figure 31) is used to produce drawings for
additions to existing plants. It is used when the amount or nature of direct charge piping is such
that isometric drawings will not be of sufficient benefit to construction or inspection personnel.
The following procedures are generally followed when preparing piping detail sheets. Refer to
Figures 32 and 33. Figure 32 is a vendor manufactured spool. Figure 33 is field manufactured.
(a) Only one fabricated section is shown on each sheet. The number of identical pieces required is
shown in the "Spools Required" section.
(b) Single line drawings are used. They are not drawn to any scale.
(c) The drawings use all available space and show all dimensions, all necessary details, and
locations of support attachments, if any.
(d) Each element of the piping must be tagged with an arbitrary number, beginning with 1, and
continuing in numerical order until all elements have been tagged. Each tag number is circled
and joined to its element by a thin straight line.
(e) A check mark is placed in the Direct Charge box if the piping is to be fabricated by a vendor (not
by Saudi Aramco). If fabricated by Saudi Aramco, the check mark is placed in the "field
manufactured" box.
(f) A materials list is completed. If the spool will not be made in Saudi Arabia, the code or stock
number column contains the arbitrary numbers which were assigned to the elements. The total
number (or quantity) of each element, their unit of issue (i.e. feet or meters for length; "EA"
(each) for standard items), and brief descriptions of the material are stated. If the spool is to be
made in Saudi Arabia, the Saudi Aramco stock numbers are given.
(g) The total mass of the piping is stated. This may be omitted if the spool is to be made in Saudi
Arabia.
(h) Drawing and mark numbers are assigned. The drawing number may be the same for different
pieces of piping, but the mark number will always be different.
The mark number uses the last three digits of the drawing number followed by a letter. ("O" and
"I" are not used.) When all the letters have been used (i.e. 24 drawings have been completed) a
new drawing number must be used.

The phrase "random length" may sometimes be seen on a drawing. It means that the actual
length of the pipe is not important since it is to be joined to another straight piece of pipe. The
phrase is usually confined to pipe not more than 39 feet in length.
Notes on the detail sheet say (1) that material shown by a broken line is not to be produced by
the fabricator, (2) that the piping detail shall be cut at all points marked F.W. (Field Weld), (3)
that each fabricated piece shall be marked with its code number, and (4) that unless the drawing
says otherwise, all dimensions are to center line or face of flanges; bolt holes on flanges straddle
the center line; welding elbows are long radius (LR).




Plan and Elevation Views on Piping Detail Sheets
It is not always possible to show on one view all the information that is required to fabricate a
pipe spool. In such cases combinations of plan, front and side views are used.
Single line drafting is still employed. Partial or complete circles are used to show 90° elbows
going respectively from or toward the reader. Partial ellipses are used to show 45° elbows going
away from or towards the reader. Examples are given below, Figure 34.

Plan and Elevation Views on Piping Detail Sheets (Fig. 34 - Cont'd)

Plan and Elevation Views on Piping Detail Sheets (Fig 34 - Cont'd)

Plan and Elevation Views on Piping Detail Sheets (Cont'd)
An example of a piping section shown in orthographic projection and in isometric projection is

shown in Figure 35 below.

VALVE TYPES
A number of different types of valves are used by Saudi Aramco. Among the most common
are:
Gate Valves
Globe Valves
Plug Valves
Ball Valves
Butterfly Valves
Needle Valves
Check Valves
Safety and Relief Valves
Valves may be operated manually or automatically.
Gate Valves
Gate valves are used to stop and start flow. They are not used for throttling (or regulating, or
controlling) flow.
Figure 36 shows how a flanged valve is fitted to a pipeline.
Figure 37 shows the inside workings of a gate valve.
Figure 38 shows a gate valve in operation. The valve should always be fully opened or fully
closed. In any other position the gate will be regulating flow and it is not designed to do this. If
the gate is partly open the flow will cause vibration. This can damage the valve.




Gate Valves (Cont'd)
Because flow through a gate valve is in a straight line the resistance to flow is small and the
pressure lost is a minimum.
Gate valves operate best when infrequent operation is required.
Symbols are used to show valves on drawings. If the valve is closed, the symbol is blacked in.
The symbol for a flanged gate valve is shown below (Figure 39):
Applications of Gate Valves
Duty : Stopping and starting flow. Infrequent operation.
Service: Gases, liquids, fluids with solids in suspension, low temperatures.

Globe Valves
Globe valves (Figure 40) are used for throttling flow. They get their name from the globe shape
of the valve body. They are often used in bypass lines around automatic control valves. By
manually operating the globe valve in the bypass line the process operation can continue even if
the automatic valve is out of service.
Globe valves allow flow to begin as soon as the disc is lifted slightly off the seat. They usually
give a tight shut-off, even after a long time in service.
Figure 40 shows the globe valve in operation.

Globe Valves (Cont'd)
The symbol for a globe valve is shown in Figure 41 below:.
Applications of Globe Valves
Duty : Controlling flow; stopping and starting flow. Frequent valve operation.
Service: Gases and liquids free of solids. Low temperatures.

Cage Trim Valves
Cage trim valves (Figure 43) are the same as globe valves. They have a rounded body, a stem,
plug and seal ring. The valves are closed by pushing down on the stem.

Cage Trim Valves (Cont'd)
Cage trim valves also have a part called the cage. This is a hollow metal cylinder, shown in
Figure 44.
The valve stem and plug move through the cage as the valve opens and closes. There are ports in
the walls of the cage to allow liquid to flow through the valve opening.

Cage Trim Valves (Cont'd)
The cage trims are interchangeable. Figure 45 shows three types of cage trims commonly used
by Saudi Aramco.
The linear cage trim is used when flow out of the control valve must equal the valve position.
For example, a 50% valve open position would give a 50% flow.
The equal percentage cage trim is used when flow should increase by the set percentage for
equal movements of valve plug travel.
The quick opening cage trim is used when a high flow rate is needed for a small valve plug
travel.

Figure 46 shows the symbol for a cage trim valve. It is the same as for a globe valve

Plug Valves
Figure 47 shows the symbol for a plug valve.

Plug Valves (Cont'd)
Plug valves (Figure 47) are designed to give quick stop and start to flow. They can also be used
to throttle flow.
The valve has a tapered plug which has an opening in it. The opening allows flow to pass
through the valve in a straight line. This keeps pressure loss to a minimum.
The valve can be changed from fully open to fully closed simply by turning the valve handle
through 90°.
The valves provide a tight shut-off against flow.
Application of Plug Valves
Duty : Stopping and starting flow. Moderate throttling.
Service: Gases, liquids.

Ball Valves
Figure 49 shows the symbol for a ball valve.
Ball valves are similar to plug valves. A quarter turn of the valve handle moves the ball position
from fully open to fully closed.
Ball valves may be used for throttling. They offer less resistance to flow than plug valves.
Figure 50 shows a ball valve.
Application of Ball Valves
Duty : Stopping and starting flow. Moderate throttling.
Service: Gases, liquids, low temperatures.


Butterfly Valves
Figure 51 shows the symbol for a butterfly valve.
Butterfly valves (Figure 52) have a vane (a round disc) which turns within the valve body. They
require a 90° turn to change from fully open to fully closed. They offer little resistance to flow
and are used for throttling. They are usually operated automatically.
Butterfly valves do not give a tight shut-off and may leak, especially in high pressure service.
They can be operated manually or automatically.
Application of Butterfly Valves
Duty : Stopping and starting flow. Controlling flow.
Service: Gases, liquids.


Needle Valves
Figure 53 shows the symbol for a needle valve.
Needle valves (Figure 54) are similar to globe valves. The closing element is long and pointed.
The valves are used in small diameter lines having high pressures. They are often used in
instrument services.
Needle valves are made with very fine screw threads on the valve stem. This allows the valves
to produce very accurate throttling.
Application of Needle Valves
Duty : Stopping and starting flow in small diameter lines. Accurate throttling.
Service: Clean fluids.


Check Valves
Figure 55 shows the symbol for a check valve.
Check valves (Figure 56) allow flow to travel in one direction only. They are operated by flow
pressure. Pressure in one direction causes the valve to open and allows flow to continue.
Pressure in the opposite direction causes the valve to close and flow stops. In this way,
unwanted back-flow is prevented.
Check valves have arrows stamped on them to show the direction of flow.
Check valves will always be found in the discharge lines of centrifugal pumps.


Safety and Relief Valves
Figure 57 shows the symbol for a safety or relief valve.
Safety and relief valves (Figure 58) are used to protect personnel and equipment. They do this
by opening automatically if a process pressure exceeds a set value. When open, the valves allow
fluid to be vented to a safe place. This venting reduces process pressure to a safe value.
The difference between a safety valve and a relief valve is small. A safety valve may be used as
a relief valve, but a relief valve may not be adequate to meet the requirements of a safety valve.
The safety valve is used when a large volume of fluid may have to be vented at a pressure
slightly higher than that set for the process. The code of the American Society of Mechanical
Engineers (ASME) states that a safety valve should be fully open at a pressure not more than 3%
above the pressure set for the process.
The relief valve is used when it is not necessary for large volumes of fluids to be vented. Before
a relief valve will begin to open, the process pressure may go as much as 10% above its set
pressure.
As shown in Figure 58, the valves operate by spring pressure. The spring keeps the valve closed.
When the process pressure goes too high the spring is compressed and the valve begins to open.
This allows fluid to be vented to a safe place.
Safety and relief valves are checked regularly by maintenance personnel. Spring tension is
adjusted as necessary to give the correct setting.


AUTOMATICALLY OPERATED VALVES
Motor Operated Valves (MOVs)
Figure 59 shows the symbol for a motor operated valve (MOV).
Some large valves would take two or more operators many hours to open or close (Figure 60). A
motor can open or close the same valve in a few minutes. The motor must be equipped with
electrical limit switches which turn the motor off when it has moved the valve as far as it can go.
Motor operated valves can be operated locally or from very remote distances.


PNEUMATICALLY (AIR) OPERATED VALVES
Many control valves (Figure 61) are operated automatically by air pressure. The pressure ranges
from 5 psi to 15 psi. The pressure is controlled by an automatic controller which continually
changes the pressure to open or close the control valve. It does this in accordance with changes
in the sepointt value of the process variable which is being controlled. Process variables are
pressure, temperature, flow rate and level.
Although Figure 61 shows a piston, air-operated valve. Diaphragm-operated valves are also
widely used.

PNEUMATIC ACTUATOR VALVES
Figure 62 shows a pneumatic diaphragm actuator valve. The actuator is the component that
moves the valve plug. Air pressure fills the upper housing and pushes the diaphragm down.
This makes the stem move and closes the valve.

PNEUMATIC ACTUATOR VALVES (Cont'd)
Air pressure on the diaphragm is resisted by the actuator spring. A reduction in air pressure
causes the spring to push the actuator stem up to open the valve. Note that process pressure
under the valve plug is also trying to open the valve. This means that more air pressure than
expected is needed on the diaphragm to close the valve.
Positioners
Positioners are used on control valves for two reasons:
(a) To position the valve
(b) To make the valve operate quickly
Positioners have an input, an output and an air supply. A positioner operates by receiving a low
volume, 3-15 psi pneumatic signal from the controller. Its mechanism then amplifies the low
volume signal into a high volume 3-15 psi signal for the valve actuator. The high volume
produces a high total force. This is done to cause a fast movement of the control valve seat.
If the air signal from the controller went directly to the actuator, it would take a long time to
move the control valve seat.
Figure 63 shows a control valve that has a positioner and actuator telling it how much to move
up or down. The position of the actuator determines how much the valve is open.


Positioners (Cont'd)
Figure 64 shows the symbol for a diaphragm operated valve with a positioner.

Valve Data Plates(Cont'd)
A stainless steel data plate is always installed on valve actuator yokes. The data plate (Figure
65) gives important information. Note that a replacement actuator will have only actuator
information stamped on the data plate, not valve information.
Actuator Information
• Serial Number - An individual number given by the manufacturer for this

particular valve and actuator.
• Type - The type of actuator (657 or 667).
• Size- - Gives the actuator size (30, 40, 60, etc.). The larger the number,
the larger the actuator.
• PSI Diaph Press Port- - Gives the pressure required to open or close the valve.
• With psi Drop- - Gives the pressure drop across the valve.
• Bench Set - Tells you what pressure is applied to the actuator before the stem
lock connector is installed.
Valve Information
• Body Size - Inlet and outlet size of the valve (2", 3", etc.).
• Rating - Pressure rating of the valve body (200, 600 psi, etc.).
• Travel - Valve stem travel from closed to open, in inches.
• Body Matl - What material the valve body is made of.
• Flow Char - What type of trim is in the valve (equal percentage, linear, throttling, quick
opening).
• Plug Matl - What material the valve plug is made of.
• Guides - What material the valve plug guides are made of.
• Order - The manufacturer's internal number assigned to the valve before the valve is
built.
• Tag - The number tells you the process and the loop that the valve is fitted into. (For
example PCV-354.)

Figure 65 Valve Data Plate

ELECTRICALLY OPERATED VALVES
Some control valves are operated by electricity. An electric current is sent through a solenoid
coil. This creates a magnetic field which causes movement of the valve stem. The strength of
the electric current varies according to the changes in the value of the process variable being
controlled. As the current changes, so does the position of the valve gate.
Figure 66 shows the principle of the solenoid. When an electric current is passed through the
coil, a magnetic field is created. The magnetic force pulls up the soft iron core.

ELECTRICALLY OPERATED VALVES (Cont'd)
In the Figure 66, current flow opens the valve. A break in the current will close the valve.
Valves can be arranged so that the opposite effect is obtained, i.e. current flow closes the valve
and current break opens the valve.
Figure 67 shows the symbol for an electrically operated control valve.

EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN VALVES (ZV)
ZV's are located at many places in a plant process. They are used to shut down the plant quickly
in an emergency. The ZV's operate automatically if dangerous conditions arise at the plant.
They can also be operated by operators when Emergency Shutdown (ESD) buttons are pressed.
ESD buttons are situated at different places in the plant, but always in the control room and at the
security gates.
ZV'S operate by air pressure. Drums containing instrument air are located near the ZV's. This
ensures that there will always be an ESD air supply when needed. The drums are more correctly
called air surge drums.
ZV's are made up of two valves - a 3-Way Solenoid Valve and a Spring Loaded 4-Way Manual
Valve. Figure 68 shows how these two valves work together.
When the ESD button (at A) is closed, electricity is supplied to the solenoid. The coil then
becomes magnetic and the magnetic force pulls up the solenoid core. This causes the valve at B
to close and shuts off the air supply. In Figure 68 the ZV is in the open position.
When the ESD button is pressed, or opened automatically as in Figure 69, the electricity supply
to the solenoid is broken. This de-energizes (DE) the solenoid coil and the magnetic force
collapses. This allows the core to drop and the valve at B opens. Air can now flow through the
valves and operate a piston. The piston is forced to the right in the figure and causes a rack to
turn a pinion and close the ball valve.
Note that the air that was already behind the piston is forced out through the spring loaded, 4-
way valve and exhausted to the atmosphere.
In order to reopen the ZV, the handle of the 4-way valve is turned through 90°, as shown in
Figure 70. This causes the valve ports to be aligned differently. Air can then flow to push the
piston to the left and cause the ZV to open again. When a button (called the reset button) is
pressed, the ESD button closes and electricity is again supplied to the solenoid. Thus, the
condition of the ZV is once again as shown in Figure 68.




The symbols for a 3-way, solenoid valve and a hand-operated, spring return, 4-way valve are
shown in Figure 71. The solid lines show the paths the air takes to operate the valve. The
broken lines show the path of the exhaust air.

PIPING AND INSTRUMENT DIAGRAMS (P&ID's)
P&ID's are drawn on size A sheets (Form AOC-377). They give a diagrammatic layout of all
piping and instrumentation needed on a given project. Figure 72 shows a P&ID.
A knowledge of instrumentation and its symbols is essential to the understanding of these

drawings.
Instrumentation & Piping Symbols
The four most common process variables in plant processes are: pressure, temperature, level and
flow rate. Control systems and instrumentation exist to keep these variables (and others) near to
the required values (called set points) and to give warnings or cause automatic shutdowns if the
variables go to dangerous values.
The abbreviations used to show the four main process variables are:
P - Pressure
T - Temperature
L - Level
F - Flow


Instrumentation and Piping Symbols (Cont'd)
The legend shown in Figure 73 is found on all Saudi Aramco Piping and Instrument Diagrams
(P&IDs). It shows some of the symbols used on the drawings.


Instrumentation Symbols

Instrumentation Symbols (Cont'd)
The circle means the instrument is locally mounted. The small arrow with the crossed lines
means that the instrument needs a supply of electricity in order for it to operate.
The symbol is for a locally mounted instrument that needs a supply of instrument air. The small
arrow means instrument air is supplied to operate the instrument.
The symbol means that a locally mounted instrument needs electricity and instrument air
supplied to it.
The abbreviations used to show the four main process variables are:

P - Pressure
T - Temperature
L - Level
F - Flow

Some of the abbreviations found inside instrumentation circles are:
ABBREVIATION NAME
Pressure Instruments
PA Pressure Alarm
PCV Pressure Control Valve
PZV Pressure Relief (Safety) Valve
Temperature Instruments
TA Temperature Alarm
TCV Temperature Control Valve
TR Temperature Recorder
TRC Temperature Recording Controller
TS Temperature Switch
Level Instruments
LCV Level Control Valve

LG Level Gauge
LIC Level Indicating Controller
LR Level Recorder
LS Level Switch
Flow Instruments
FA Flow Alarm
FCV Flow Control Valve
FIC Flow Indicating Controller
FT Flow Transmitter
FR Flow Recorder
There are many other abbreviations used in instrumentation symbols. The abbreviations are all
organized the same way.

The first letter identifies the process variable or function of the instrument.
P I C
FIRST SUCCEEDING LETTER
LETTER OR LETTERS

The second , or second and third, or more, letters denote the type of instrument.
I = Indicator G = Gauge
C = Controller A = Alarm
E = Element S = Switch
R = Recorder T = Transmitter
The instrument legend on a P&ID will contain many of the abbreviations used on the drawing.
A more comprehensive list of abbreviations is given in Figure 74.
Note that elements are the measuring instruments that measure the values of the process
variables.
Indicators show, or indicate to, the operators the measured values of the process variables.
Transmitters send, or transmit, process variable measurements to other control instruments.

They do this either in the form of electric voltage signals or as air pressure pneumatic signals of
5-15 psi, or as electric milliamp current signals.
An instrument called a transducer is used to change pneumatic signals to electric signals or vice
versa.
Recorders are instruments that continuously record process variable measurements on a graph.
(Figure 75 shows a recorder.)

AE Analyzer Element (Chemical composition) PHC Pressure Manual Control

AOV Air Operated Valves pHT pH Transmitter
BE Burner Element (flame detector) PI Pressure Indicator
CR Conductivity Recorder PIC Pressure Indicating Controller
DP Differential Pressure PIT Pressure Indicating Transmitter
DT Density Transmitter (also specific gravity PR Pressure Recorder
and Baume) PS Pressure Switch
FC Flow Controller PT Pressure Transmitter
FCV Flow Control Valve PTd Pressure Transducer
FE Flow Element PZE Rupture Disc
FG Flow Sight Glass PZV Pressure Relief Valve
FHC Flow Manual Control RO Restriction Orifice
FHS Hand Switch in Flow Loop ST Speed Transmitter
FI Flow Indicator SV Solenoid Valve
FIC Flow Indicating Controller TC Temperature Controller
FM Flow Meter (Pos. Displ. or Turb.) TCV Temperature Control Valve
FQR Flow Quantity Recorder TE TemperatureElem. & Well Assembly
FQI Flow Quantity Counter THC Temperature Indicating Controller
FR Flow Recorder TI Temperature Indicator
FRC Flow Recorder Controller TIC Temperature Indicator Transmitter
FS Flow Switch TIT Temperature Indicating Transmitter
FT Flow Transmitter TR Temperature Recorder
FTd Flow Transducer TRAP Steam Trap or Airvent
HCV Hand Operated Control Valve TS Temperature Switch
HS Hand Switch TSA Temperature Switch Alarm
HTd Hand Transducers TT Temperature Transmitter
LC Level Controller TTd Temperature Transducer
LCV Level Control Valve TW Thermowell
LG Level Gage Glass TY Relay in Temperature Loop
LHC Level Manual Control WE Weight Measuring Element
LI Level Indicator XA Annunciator
LIC Level Indicating Controller XLS Limit Switch
LR Level Recorder XPI Position Indicator
LS Level Switch XPS Position Detector Switch
LT Level Transmitter XVE Vibration Detector
LTd Level Transducer XVS Vibration Switch
MOV Motor Operated Valve VSV or
MT Motion Transmitter VAV Vacuum Relief Valve
PA Pressure Alarm ZL Position Indicator Light
PC Pressure Controller ZS Valve Mounted Limit Switch
PCV Pressure Control Valve ZV Safety Shutdown (Pilot) Valve
PdI Differential Pressure Indicator
FIGURE 74

Elements measure the process variables.
Indicators show the values of process variable measurements.
Transmitters send (or transmit) process variable measurements to other control instruments. They do this in the form of
pneumatic or electrical signals.
Transducers (Td) change pneumatic signals to electrical signals or vice versa.
Recorders draw a graph of process variable measurements.

Saudi Aramco uses standard line symbols on P&IDs. Figure 76 shows the most common types
of lines.
MAIN PROCESS LINE
AUXILIARY PROCESS LINE
ELECTRIC SIGNAL LINE
PNEUMATIC SIGNAL LINE
CAPILLARY TUBING SIGNAL LINE
FIGURE 76. LINE SYMBOLS

Main Process Lines are the major pipelines in a process system. Most P&IDs will show these
as heavy lines with arrowheads ( ) on the lines. The arrowheads show the direction of
flow.
Auxiliary Process Lines are pipes that feed into the main process line or draw from the main
process line. See Figure 77.
Figure 77 shows why instrumentation systems are called loops. Pipeline pressure is fed to a
pressure transmitter (PT-123). The transmitter sends the measurement to a Pressure Indicating

Recording Controller (PIRC-123). This instrument displays the pressure measurement and also
records it on a graph. If the measurement is not the one for set point, the PIRC sends a signal to
the pressure control valve (PCV-123) and causes it to adjust its setting. This adjustment changes
the pressure in the line and causes a different measurement to be received at the transmitter.
Thus the whole sequence begins again and operates in a circle, or loop, to keep the process
variable at, or near to, the set point value. The process of taking a process variable measurement
and signalling back to the control valve is called feedback.

Information inside an instrument circle states the kind of instrument and what process variable
and loop number it is part of.
PIC
123
FIGURE 78. INSTRUMENT SYMBOL
Figure 78 is a common instrument symbol. It says three things about the instrument.
• Where it is. It is locally mounted.

• What it is. It is a Pressure Indicating Controller.
• What it is part of. It is part of an instrumentation system called a LOOP. The
loop is identified as Loop 123.

PIPING AND INSTRUMENT DIAGRAMS
The control loop shown in Figure 79 would, in reality, look as shown in Figure 80.

PIPING AND INSTRUMENT DIAGRAMS (Cont'd)

Figures 79 and 80 show that process fluid, flowing through the main process line, is controlled
by a Pressure Control Valve (PCV-123). The control valve is actually controlling the
downstream PRESSURE.
Remember: Downstream pressure is fed to a Pressure Transmitter (PT-123). The transmitter

measures the pressure. It then sends an air (or pneumatic) signal to a Pressure Indicating
Recording Controller (PIRC-123). The pressure of this air signal varies in accordance with the
pressure measurement. The controller is set at the set point value needed for the downstream
pressure. (The set point setting is adjustable.) If the signal the controller receives is not the
signal to give the set point value, its own output signal to the control valve (PVC-123) changes.
This causes the valve to open or close to bring the downstream pressure nearer to set point.
This process of measurement and control valve adjustment is continuous. The action of
measuring a variable downstream of the controller and sending the measurement back to the
controller is called feedback. The control system is called a control loop.
The PIRC gives a direct reading indication of the pressure in the line. It also constantly graphs
the values of the pressure.
Temperature indicator (TI-123) and pressure indicator (PI-123) give direct readings of
temperature and pressure, respectively.

Figure 81 shows a typical panel mounted Indicating Controller. The one shown is for flow
control. Note that the controllers show set point and the actual value of the process variable at
any time. Also note that the controller has a square root scale because it is measuring flow as the
square root of differential pressure at an orifice plate

Figure 82 shows an example of electrical, pneumatic and capillary tubing signal lines on a simple
P&ID.

The symbol for a gate valve is shown again in Figure 83. Closed valves are shown blacked in.
Figure 84 shows symbols used for different types of valves. The P&ID legend will give
information about other valves.

Information may sometimes be given next to valve symbols. It says what the valve will do if
there is a failure in the instrument air supply to the valve. Figure 85 gives the abbreviations used
and their meanings.
Means the valve must have air pressure

AC (Air Close) to close.
Means the valve must have air pressure

AO (Air Open) to open.
Means the valve will open on failure of

AFO (Air Failure Open)
the air supply.
Means the valve will close on failure of

AFC (Air Failure Close)
the air supply.
Means the valve will remain in the same

AFS (Air Failure Steady)
position on failure of the air supply.
FIGURE 85

Figure 86 is an air operated diaphragm PCV with a positioner. This valve is air to close/air fail
open (AC/AFO). It has a constant Instrument Air Supply (IAS) acting on it at a pressure of 20
psig. Instrument air from another part of the process is also supplied to the valve. The pressure
of this air varies in accordance with a process variable measurement. Thus, a pressure
differential across the valve diaphragm is used to control the valve opening.

Figure 87 shows some some common process equipment symbols. Saudi Aramco uses letters to
denote equipment.
D = Drums, Tanks, Vessels

E = Heat Exchangers
F = Fired Tubular Heaters
K = Compressors
G = Pumps
T = Turbines
C = Columns


PRESSURE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Figure 88 shows a section of a pipeline on which the pressure is being monitored by

instrumentation equipment. Note that the pressure is not being controlled in the system shown.
The following abbreviations are used:
PA - Pressure Alarm
PS - Pressure Switch
PI - Pressure Indicator (that is, a pressure gauge)
L - Low
LL - Low low
H - High
HH - High high

PRESSURE CONTROL SYSTEMS (Cont'd)
Variations in the values of process variables from their required, or set point, values are often
acknowledged at six different levels. Values can be high (H) or high high (HH) or high high
high (HHH).
Alternatively, values can be low (L) or low low (LL) or low low low (LLL).
HH, HHH, LL and LLL values often cause automatic shutdown of equipment.
Figure 88 showed that tubing (at A) takes pipeline pressure through two gate valves to a pressure
switch (PS). The switch is set to operate at a low low (LL) pressure value. When operated, the
switch sends an electric signal through the instrumentation electrical line (denoted by
) and causes the automatic shutdown system to operate. The signal also causes a
pressure alarm (PA) to operate. The PA symbol,
PA
shows that the alarm is mounted at the front of the control room panel and that an electrical
supply is required for its operation. Tubing at B is connected to a pressure indicator (PI) from
which the pressure value can be read directly. The tubing is also connected to low and high
pressure switches and alarms.

Figure 89 shows a control system in which pressure is being controlled.

The following abbreviations are used:
E - Energize
DE - De-energize
ZV - Safety Shutdown Valve
AFC - Air Fail Close
TSO - Tight Shut Off
PCV - Pressure Control Valve
AFC - Air Fail Close
The PCV ( at A) is a self-operating control valve. Pressure upstream of the PCV is fed to a
diaphragm inside the valve. If the upstream pressure is high, the diaphragm increases the valve
opening and causes the upstream pressure to decrease. If the upstream pressure is low, the
diaphragm decreases the valve opening and causes upstream pressure to increase.
Figure 90 shows again the principle of operation of the diaphragm valve. Pipeline pressure
operates on the diaphragm automatically.

The globe valve at B in Figure 89 is operated by a supply of instrument air. The air passes first
through a 3-way valve (at C). The valve gate is kept open by the magnetic force of a solenoid,
supplied with electricity from the shutdown system. The symbol E shows the path the
air takes when the solenoid coil is energized.
If the shutdown system is operated, the solenoid is de-energized and the 3-way valve closes.
This allows air to vent from the 3-way valve and causes the valve to close. The symbol DE
indicates that air from the diaphragm valve vents to the atmosphere when the solenoid is de-
energized (DE).
Similarly, the globe valve closes if there is a failure in the instrument air supply. This is
indicated by the abbreviation AFC (air fail close).
Note that the valve is also shown to have a Tight Shut Off (TSO).

TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEMS
Figure 91 shows a cooling system. Cooling is done by air which is blown around the cooler by
motor operated fans. The temperature of the fluid leaving the cooler is being controlled.
Abbreviations used are:
HS - Hand Switch
R - Red
G - Green
XL - Indicating Lamp
TI - Temperature Indicator
TCV - Temperature Control Valve
TIC - Temperature Indicating Controller
M - Motor
TA - Temperature Alarm
The symbol denotes a cooler. The process fluid flows through

a coil around which cooling air is blown.

TEMPERATURE CONTROL SYSTEMS (Cont'd)
The TIC is a control instrument on which the temperature value can be read directly. It takes the
temperature measurement of the process fluid which is fed to it by capillary action. It compares
this measurement with its set point and uses an instrument air signal to open or close the TCV
accordingly. By closing the valve, fluid can be kept inside the cooler for a longer time and,
hence, its temperature can be lowered. Temperature can be raised by opening the valve and
allowing fluid to leave the cooler more quickly.
The hand switches (HS) are used to stop and start the motors which drive the cooling fans. Local
board mounted, red and green indicating lamps show if the motors are stopped or running (red is
stop, green is running).
A capillary tube connection operates a temperature switch if outlet temperature goes high (H). It
causes a high temperature alarm to be given.
Temperature indicators (TI) located at inlet and outlet allow operators to read the temperature
directly.
Note the bypass line around the cooler. This allows the process to continue operation even if the
cooler is temporarily shut down.

LEVEL CONTROL SYSTEMS
Figure 92 shows a level control system. A level switch (LS) at A is set at a LL level of 2'-0".
(Note that the identifying equipment number is given as 3091).

LEVEL CONTROL SYSTEMS (Cont'd)
If the water level goes low low, the level switch (LS) at a causes an electric signal to be sent to
the Motor Trip/Permissive Start Circuit. The signal operates the hand switch (HS at B) and
causes the pump to trip. This prevents the pump from being damaged by cavitation, which
would result from a low pressure head.
The pump cannot be restarted until the circuit gives permission, that is, until the water level goes
higher than 2'-0".
At C there is a Flow Element (FE) which measures the flow rate of the water leaving the pump.
The FE sends an electrical signal to a Flow Indicating Controller. The strength of the signal
depends on the value of the measurement being taken. The symbol means that the
measurement is being stored into a computer system. This is called data logging. A hexagon is
also used to show a data logger input.
The FIC sends the signal to a Transducer (Td) which changes the signal from an electric to an
air, or pneumatic, signal. The air signal controls the Flow Control Valve (FCV) at D. This is an
air to close/air fail open (AC/AFO) valve. It needs an air signal to close it and it opens
automatically if the air supply fails.
The function of the FCV is to allow water to be recycled back to the tank if the flow rate through
the pump goes low. In this way, a minimum flow through the pump is maintained and cavitation
is avoided.
Flow rate is also measured by a FE at E. This measurement is taken up by a Flow Transmitter

(FT). This instrument transmits the measurement to a Flow Indicator (FI). The measurement is
logged in a computer. The FI sends an electric signal to a Flow Recorder (FR). The FR uses an
ink pen to draw a graph of the flow rate against the time of day. The symbol shows that this
information is also logged.
The Level Control Valve at F is Air to Open/Air Fail Close (AO/AFC). It is a piston operated
ball valve. An instrument air system supplies air at a constant pressure of 80 psig to operate the
piston. Instrument air at a varying pressure is supplied through a Level Transducer (LTd) at G.
This air pressure changes in accordance with level measurement taken on equipment which
would be seen on Drawing No. DT-694463. These changes cause the valve piston to move and
so cause adjustments to be made to the flow rate.

The LCV is connected to a 3-way safety shutdown valve (ZV). The ZV is connected to the
safety shutdown system. Level alarms for high, high and high, high, high are connected to the
system (as shown at H).
If the shutdown system is operated, the ZV vents air from the LCV piston and the LCV closes.
All water from the pumps is then recycled to the tank.
Note: IAS means Instrument Air Supply.

FLOW CONTROL SYSTEMS
Figure 93 shows a Flow Control Loop.

FLOW CONTROL SYSTEMS (Cont'd)
Flow Element (FE 205) shows the symbol for an orifice plate. Orifice plates, shown in Figure
94, are used to measure flow rate.

FLOW CONTROL SYSTEMS (Cont'd)
The plate has an accurately machined hole in its center. When the plate is inserted into a
pipeline it causes a restriction. Pressure increases on the upstream side of the plate and decreases
on the downstream side. The difference in upstream and downstream pressures (the differential
pressure) is dependent on the flow rate.
In Figure 93, the high and low pressures (HP and LP) are sent to a transmitter differential
pressure cell (FT 205). The transmitter sends the differential pressure reading to a flow indicator
(FI 205). FI-205 shows the flow rate as a direct reading. However, the scale on the indicator is
not linear; it is square root (). This is because pressure differential varies as the square of the
flow rate. Therefore, the square root of pressure differential is needed in order to obtain the flow
rate.
FI-205 sends a pneumatic signal to the flow control valve (FCV-205).
Note the concentric reducer in the line. This changes the line from 2" to 1" diameter.
PROCESS FLOW DIAGRAMS
Process Flow Diagrams are diagrammatic layouts that show all major pipelines and equip-ment
such as vessels, heat exchangers, pumps, compressors and so on. The diagrams often show the
basis behind the process design and may also give a material balance (i.e. the amount of steam,
water, hydrocarbons, etc. that are produced by the process during summer and winter months.)
Relevant flow rates, pressures, temperatures, etc. may also be shown, as well as the size, capacity
and duty of the major equipment.
Process Flow Diagrams are among the first drawings to be made. Flow is always drawn entering
from the left and leaving at the right.
Figure 95 shows a process flow diagram.(Figure 95 is Handout No. 1, Drawing NO 40-A-NA-

548511, Sheet 1)

Study the information columns (Figure 96) that describe the Process Flow Diagram in Figure 95.
DESCRIPTION describes the process line in words. STREAM NO. refers to the numbers that
have been given to these process lines. These numbers are shown on the drawing inside
diamond shapes which are attached to the process piping by straight lines. Under each number
column are the letters S for summer and W for winter. The values in these columns are for
summer and winter months.
The COMPONENTS column lists the components that make up the process flow.
The column lists the 'C factions.' C stands for carbon. The C-factions are the hydrocarbons
contained in the process material.
Methane is the lightest hydrocarbon. It has only one carbon atom, so it is called C1. Ethane is
the next lightest with two carbon atoms, so it is called C2, and so on.
Some hydrocarbons have the same number of carbon atoms, but different chemical structures.
For example, butane can exist as iso-butane (iC4) or as normal butane (nC4).
The total flows in various units are given for each process pipeline. For example, the total
pound moles per hour (LB MOLS/HR) of raw liquid petroleum gas (LPG) coming from Plants
25 and 45, through process line 1 on the process flow diagram is 8150.2 in the summer and
9372.4 in the winter. (A LB MOL is the number of pounds of gas equal to its molecular weight.)
Other abbreviations are:
LBS/HR - Pounds per hour

MBOD - Thousand barrels oil per day
GPM (Hot) - Gallons per minute (hot)
GPM @ 60°F - Gallons per minute at 60°F
LB/CU FT - Pounds per cubic foot
SG @ 60°F - Specific gravity at 60°F
MW - Molecular Weight
MSCFD (Vapor) - Thousand standard cubic feet per day (vapor)
ACFM (Vapor) - Actual cubic feet per minute (vapor)
Note that hydrocarbons up to isopentane (iC5) are referred to as light ends. After iC5 they are
called heavy ends.


Other symbols that are often seen on piping drawings are shown below:
This symbol shows that there is lagging on a pipe Usually the pipes are carrying steam and the
lagging prevents heat loss. It also prevents operators from burning themselves on the hot pipes.
The upper letters indicate the type of insulation; the lower figures indicate the size.
This is the symbol for a drain. It means that a pipe or vessel can be drained to a sewer.
"GAP ACTION" is a method of controlling level. The controller opens the valve at one control
point and closes it at another. The distance between these two points is the gap.
This symbol shows a Steam trap. It is used for removing steam from pipeline flows.
This symbol is for a filter. The filter removes sand, dust, etc. from the fluid.

COMPUTING RELAYS
Computing relays are used to perform special functions in control loops. The term computing is
used because the relays perform some sort of mathematical function. The function may be:
• addition or subtraction
• multiplication or division
• extraction of square root for flow rate calculation
Another kind of computing relay is able to decide from two, three, or four voltage signals which
of the signals is the highest or lowest. This is called a HIGH/LOW selector relay.
Relays are denoted on drawings by the letter Y. They are needed when very accurate control of
a process is required. In many cases, a controller will receive input signals from more than one
control loop. For example, temperature measurements may be used to control a flow control
loop, or a level controller may control the flow rate in a flow control loop, and so on.
Addition/Subtracter Relays
Instrument control loops cannot always work in isolation. Often, what happens in one loop
influences what happens in another. For this reason, the signal in one loop may have to be
changed, if conditions in another loop change. This change is done by
ADDITION/SUBTRACTER computer relay cards. The cards can take up to four voltage input
signals and from them produce a single voltage output signal. Relay cards are solid state or
printed circuit electrical devices. The output signal can go to:
• other relay cards

• other control loops
• a transducer for conversion into a signal to a control valve
• an integrator for conversion into a signal to a totalizer.
NOTE: An integrator is an instrument that integrates many readings of a flow rate into a single
reading for a specified time, for example, gallons in a day. This figure is then shown on a
totalizer.

Multiplier/Divider Cards
Multiplier/divider cards can be used to perform many different functions in a control loop. They
can:
• multiply two input voltages together

• multiply two inputs and divide the product by another input
• add two inputs and find the square root of the sum
• divide one input voltage value by another.
Output signals from a multiplier/divider card can go to almost any instruments in the same loop
or to instruments in other loops. Also, there can be more than one multiplier/divider in a single
control loop.
High/Low Signal Selector Cards
A high/low signal selector card performs a simple function. It receives two, three, or four
different voltage signals and picks out the signal that has the highest or lowest voltage value.
(Whether it picks the highest or lowest signal depends on the value the card has been set to
select.)
When the selection has been made, the card turns the control of the loop over to the instrument
producing the selected value.
Figure 97 shows an analyzing loop. It illustrates how computing relays work together.


The loop is used to determine how much water is mixed with the crude oil.
A mixture of crude oil and water is allowed to settle in a vessel. After a time, the water settles to
the bottom of the vessel. The oil, which will have droplets of water in it, rests on the top of the
water.
A flow meter measures the flow rate of the oil-plus-water leaving the vessel through the oil-
water line. The meter sends a signal to the flow converter. The converter converts the flow rate
measurement to a voltage signal. The voltage signal becomes one input signal to the
multiplier/divider card.
After leaving the flow meter the oil-plus-water flows through an analyzer instrument. This
instrument determines the exact percentage of the water that is suspended in the oil. This
measurement is sent to the analyzing converter. Here the measurement is converted to a voltage
signal. The voltage signal becomes the second signal to the multiplier/divider.
The multiplier/divider, therefore, is receiving two signals:
(1) the total flow rate of oil-plus-water

(2) the percentage of water contained in the oil.
The multiplier/divider multiplies these two signals together to obtain the total flow rate of water
leaving with the oil. For example, if the total flow rate of oil-plus-water is 100 gallons per
minute and the percentage of water in the oil is 10%, then the flow rate of water leaving with the
oil is: 100 x 0.10 = 10 gallons per minute.
The output signal from the multiplier/divider card is a voltage signal that is proportional to the
flow rate of water in the oil-plus-water line. This output signal is sent to an adder/subtracter
card.
The adder/subtracter card receives two input signals:
(1) a signal from the flow converter for the flow rate of water in the water line
(2) the signal from the multiplier/divider for the flow rate of water in the oil-plus-water line.
The adder/subtracter adds the two flow rate values and sends a signal to the integrator. The
integrator calculates the water flow rate continuously . It converts the water flow rate into one
unit (for example, gallons per day and sends an input signal to the totalizer. The totalizer shows
the number of gallons of water that has passed through the process in a set time (for example, in
an hour, a day, a week, and so on.)
Figure 98 indicates how relays are shown on P&IDs.


Figure 98 shows an adder card receiving input signals from a square root extractor used for
calculating flow rate from differential pressure and a multiplier/divider card. The adder card
output goes to a flow controller.
Figure 99 shows an adder card, LY-81c. It receives an input signal from LIC-81 and a second
input signal from another flow loop. The signals are added and sent to FIC-159. This output
signal from LY-81 has become the set point for FIC-159. When the output signal of one control
instrument becomes the set point signal for another, it is known as cascade control.

OPERATION OF RELAYS
Handout No. 2 shows a P&ID for a deethanizer process. It is sheet 1 of 48 sheets.

(The Handout is Drawing No R84-A-NA-B44995 Sheet 1.)

Figure 100 shows a section of the P&ID (Handout No. 2).
TE TT
010 010
TR FR
010 010
R84E - 101
10 TE 10 TT 10 TIC
105 105 105
LOW
SELECTOR
TY TIC
010A 010
TTd TY TY
010 010C 010B
AUTO / ADDER /
MANUAL SUBTRACTER
TEMPERATURE CONTROL LOOP T - 010
FIGURE 100

OPERATION OF RELAYS (Cont'd)
Look first at the temperature control loop T-010 (Figure 101). The loop has the usual control
instruments, but also has computing relay instruments. These are:
• TY-010A - a high/low signal selector

• TY-010B - an adder/subtracter
• TY-010C - an auto/manual transfer station
Note that, as usual, "T" stands for temperature. The "Y" tells us it is a relay. Figure 102 shows
in simplified form the lower left-hand section of the P&ID (Figure100).

A 16" pipeline, identified as 16"-P-1001-6A1 on Figure 102, carries natural gas liquid (NGL)
from Shedgum and Uthmaniyah NGL centers. The NGL is heated by steam in the preheater
R84E-101. From the preheater, the NGL flows to a deethanizer column, R84C-101.
The steam entering R84E-101 (from the right side of the P&ID) is rated at 60 psi. This is an
industrial standard and has a temperature of 292°F. Unfortunately, simply adjusting the flow
rate of the steam does not give precise control of the temperature of the NGL leaving the
preheater. There are two reasons for this:
• The temperature of the NGL entering the preheater may vary.
• The amount of NGL entering the preheater may vary.

The following fact is used to overcome these problems of varying NGL temperature and flow
rate:
Steam condenses to water when it is cooled. Therefore, some steam condenses inside the
preheater because it gives up some of its heat to the NGL. If the steam condensate is held inside
the preheater, the inside temperature will be lower. NGL flowing through the preheater will not
then be able to pick up as much heat.
Conversely, if all the condensate flows out of the preheater, the inside temperature will be
higher. NGL flowing through the heater will be able to pick up more heat.
The exact amounts of steam flow, condensate flow and NGL flow are calculated by Saudi
Aramco engineers. The figures obtained are then used in the design of the instrument loops that
control the process for R84E-101.
Handout 2 showed that the amount of condensate leaving the preheater is controlled by TCV-
010.
The temperature of the NGL entering the process is measured (or sensed) by TE-016, shown in
Figure 102.

This TE sends a temperature input signal to TT-016. The TT feeds the signal to flow control
loop F-010. The signal goes to a computing relay, FY-010A. Flow transmitter, FT-010A is also
sending a signal to a computer relay, FY-010B.
FE-010 is an orifice plate which uses differential pressure for measuring flow rate. Differential
pressure is affected by the temperature of the fluid flowing through the plate. The effect is small,
but must be taken into account when precise control is required. Relays help us to achieve this
precise control. As an example, FY-010B extracts the square root from the orifice plate pressure
differential and obtains the flow rate. Computer relay, FY-010A, which is receiving a
temperature input from TT-016, computes the correct flow rate after taking the temperature into
consideration. This is one example of how relays can help achieve accurate control.
A closer study of the P&IDs would show many other examples of how relays were acting
together to change various set points in accordance with process variable values taken from
many parts of the process. All the changes bring about a more accurate control of the process.

PLANT EQUIPMENT
Plant equipment is often shown on P&IDs. Saudi Aramco uses symbols to depict the various
types of plant equipment. The most common of these symbols are shown in below. They may
be found on Saudi Aramco standard drawing A-AB-36305.
A storage vessel. May also be a "knockout" drum, which is used to remove ("knockout") liquid
from gas.
A piece of equipment that is used to remove water from gas (dehydrate the gas). The gas enters
the dehydrator and passes through a filter. The filter causes water droplets to join together
(coalesce). The heavier droplets fall to the bottom of the dehydrator and can be drained from the
boot.

CONE ROOF TANK
The simplest type of fixed-roof storage tank. It comes in two types:
• With the roof supported at its edge

• With the roof supported by rafters.
FLOATING ROOF TANK
A storage tank used for storing petroleum products and other liquids which have flash points
below 130° F. The roof floats on the liquid.
Sphere:
Used to store liquids that are highly volatile and explosive. During storage, the spheres allow
gas to be removed from crude oil.
Spheroid
Similar to sphere, except that it withstands lower internal pressures.
A piece of equipment that is used to change the temperatures of process fluids. It can raise or
lower the temperatures, depending on whether it uses a heating or cooling medium. If the
exchanger is fired by a combustion process, it may be called a furnace, boiler or heater. If there
is a change of phase of one of the process fluids, the exchanger may be called a chiller,
evaporator, reboiler or condenser.

Air coolers (sometimes called fin-fan coolers) blow air around finned pipes to cause a drop in the
temperature of the fluid inside the pipes.
A multi-tubular boiler through which the fluid passes and is heated.
A steam-driven pump which uses the reciprocating action of a piston inside a cylinder to move
the liquid.

Thermo siphon horizontal exchangers allow vapor and liquid to leave through the same outlet.
Kettle type exchangers are used when a gas is involved in the process.

Internal coil exchangers use steam flowing through a coil inside a shell to raise the temperature
inside the shell.

A piece of equipment that condenses hydrocarbon gases out of steam. A steam supply flows
through a venturi section. The loss of pressure at the venturi sucks vapor from the higher
pressure process. The mixture of vapor and steam flows to the condenser. The mixture is then
cooled by water. This causes the vapor to condense out of the steam. The condensate leaves the
condenser from the bottom, and steam from the top.
Centrifugal pump driven by a turbine prime mover.
Centrifugal pump driven by an electric motor prime mover.
A motor-driven pump.

Centrifugal compressor uses centrifugal action to compress a gas. The wider part of the symbol
denotes inlet; the smaller part denotes outlet.
A reciprocating compressor uses the reciprocating action of a piston inside a cylinder to

compress the gas.
A centrifugal pump which uses a gas or diesel engine drive as its prime mover.
A rotary or gear pump uses the meshing of gear to produce a pump action on the liquid. The
gear may be motor or turbine driven.
Rotary pumps use the rotation of blades or impellers to move the liquid.

The rotary motion of blades or impellers are used to compress the gas.
A venturi section set into a steam line that has a branch connection to a pump, or in a process
line.
The increase in the steam flow rate at the venturi section causes a pressure drop at the section.
The low pressure area draws vapor away from higher pressure areas.

Up to and including 12 inches diameter, pipe size is nominal and may not indicate either the
exact inside or outside diameter of the pipe.
After 12 inches, pipe size refers to the exact outside diameter of the pipe.
"Schedule numbers" are used to indicate pipe-wall thickness. The actual wall thickness
corresponding to schedule numbers can be found on standard charts, such as those given.
The 'grade' of a pipe refers to the material of which it is made. Grade B is commonly used. This
is mild steel with a yield stress of 30,000 lb/in2. The yield stress of other pipe is indicated in the
grade description. For example, grade X 60 pipe has a yield stress of 60,000 lb/in2.

PIPING DATA SHEETS

PIPING DATA SHEETS (Cont'd)

Saudi Aramco identifies its pipelines by 'line numbers', as shown below.
PIPE SPECIFICATION
NUMERICAL SERIAL NUMBER
SERVICE
PIPE SIZE
6" - P - 186 - 3A1B

PREFIX NUMBER (CLASS OR RATING)
SERVICE GROUP
SUFFIX NUMBER (FLANGE TYPE)
TERMINAL LETTER (IF ANY)
LINE NUMBERS
FIGURE 23

SERVICE
ARABIAN AMERICAN OIL COMPANY

ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
A = AIR OTHER THAN INSTRUMENT

BD = BLOW DOWN
C = CHEMICALS
CW = CHILLED WATER
E = EXHAUST STEAM
FG = FUEL GAS
FO = FUEL OIL
FW = FIREWATER
IA = INSTRUMENT AIR
P = OIL & OIL PRODUCTS
PO = PUMP OUT
R = REFRIGERANT
RL = RELIEF LINE
S = STEAM
SC = STEAM CONDENSATE
SR = SEWER
SW = SALT WATER
W = WATER
LETTER DESIGNATIONS FOR LINE NUMBERS
"Service" gives an indication of the kind of fluid that is flowing in the line.

SERVICE GROUPS
A - Pressure service, non-corrosive, including hazardous fluids

C - Corrosive and special services, reserved for piping
specifications not covered in Attachments A through N
D - Low-pressure utilities, non-corrosive
E - Low-pressure utilities, corrosive
F - Non-pressure sewers
G - Small diameter piping around pumps and compressors
H - Low-pressure hydrocarbon service
L - Low-temperature service
N - Plumbing drain and vent systems in buildings
Service groups give more details information about the conditions existing in the pipeline due to
the type of fluid and the fluid flow.

WORK AID
Pipeline fittings are made to standard dimensions. These dimensions may be found on standard
charts. Typical standard charts are given.

FORGED STEEL FLANGES

FORGED STEEL FLANGES (Cont'd)


WORK AIDS
Many different symbols are used to depict valves and instrumentation on Saudi Aramco
drawings. Some of the most common are shown on the following symbol and description chart.
Many of the symbols are shown on all Piping and Instrument Diagrams.
INSTRUMENT LEGEND
LOCAL MOUNTED ELECTRICAL SUPPLY

INSTRUMENT REQUIRED
BOARD MOUNTED H
HIGH
INSTRUMENT
INSTRUMENT AIR SUPPLY LOW

L
REQUIRED
TWO PEN
RECORDER
PI - PRESSURE INDICATOR
FC - FLOW CONTROLLER PIC - PRESS-INDICATING CONTROLLER
FCV - FLOW CONTROL VALVE PIT - PRESS-INDICATING TRANSMITTER
FE - FLOW ELEMENT PR - PRESSURE RECORDER
FHC - FLOW MANUAL CONTROL PS - PRESSURE SWITCH
FI - FLOW INDICATOR PT - PRESSURE TRANSMITTER
FIC - FLOW INDICATING CONTROLLER PTd - PRESSURE TRANSDUCER
FM - FLOW METER (POS. DISPL.OR TURB. PZV - PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE
FR - FLOW RECORDER TC - TEMP. CONTROLLER
FS - FLOW SWITCH TCV - TEMP. CONTROL VALVE
FT - FLOW TRANSMITTER TE - TEMP. ELEM. 7 WELL ASSEMBLY
FTd - FLOW TRANSDUCER THC - TEMP. MANUAL CONTROL
LC - LEVEL CONTROLLER TI - TEMP. INDICATOR
LCV - LEVEL CONTROL VALVE TIC - TEMP. INDICATING CONTROLLER
LG - LEVEL GAGE GLASS TIT - TEMP. INDICATING TRANSMITTER
LHC - LEVEL MANUAL CONTROL TR - TEMP. RECORDER
LI - LEVEL INDICATOR TS - TEMP. SWITCH
LIC - LEVEL INDICATING CONTROLLER TSA - TEMP. SWITCH ALARM
LR - LEVEL RECORDER TT - TEMP. TRANSMITTER
LS - LEVEL SWITCH TTd - TEMP. TRANSDUCER
LT - LEVEL TRANSMITTER TW - THERMOWELL
LTd - LEVEL TRANSDUCER XA - ANNUNCIATOR
MOV - MOTOR OPERATED VALVE XV E - VIBRATION DETECTOR
PC - PRESSURE CONTROLLER XVS - VIBRATION SWITCH
PCV - PRESSURE CONTROL VALVE VZV - VACUUM RELIEF VALVE
PHC - PRESSURE MANUAL CONTROL ZV - SASFETY SHUT-DOWN (PILOT) VALVE
FIGURE 73 ( Cont'd. )

STEEL WEDGE GATE VALVES

GLOSSARY
air-actuated Operated by compressed air, as in an air operated valve.
atmospheric pressure The pressure exerted over the earth by the weight of the
atmosphere. At sea level, atmospheric pressure is approximately
14.7 psi.
automatic shutdown A system which uses certain instruments to stop, or shutdown,

equipment or plant processes automatically if conditions become
abnormal.
blind To close or prevent flow; the equipment used to close the line.
class When applied to pipe, a measure of the pipeline strength.
elbow A fitting that allows tow pipes to be joined together at an angle less
than 180°, usually 90° or 45°.
flange A projecting rim or edge used to connect piping to fittings and

equipment.
gasket A material such as paper, cork asbestos, rubber, or stainless steel

that is used as a seal between two surfaces.
grade When applied to pipe, the designation of the pipe material.
heavy ends The parts of a hydrocarbon that have the highest boiling point and
highest viscosity; the hexanes and heptanes in a natural gas.
hydrotest To apply internal hydraulic pressure to check for leaks in piping.
instrumentation A device or system of devices used to measure operating variables

such as pressure, temperature, level and flow rate; to indicate
measurements with visible or audible signals; to control
measurements within defined limits.
pipeline class or rating Indicates the strength of a pipeline. The required strength depends
on the pressure and temperature at which the line operates. class is
spoken of in pound units or as pound-pressure.

pipe grade Indicates the strength of the material of which a pipe is made. For
example, Grade B is mild steel pipe. Grade X-60 is pipe with a
yield stress of 60,000 lb/in2.
pipe schedule number Indicates pipe wall thickness. Each schedule number has a
corresponding wall thickness for each diameter of pipe.
Thicknesses are given on standard pipeline data sheets.
rating When applied to pipe, a measure of the pipeline strength.
schedule When applied to pipe, a measure of the pipe-wall thickness.
transducer An instrument that changes one form of energy to another. It is

used to change pneumatic signals to electric signals and vice versa.
transmitter A control instrument that takes a process variable measurement,

converts it into a pneumatic or electric signal, and sends the signal
to another control instrument.

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Engineering Encyclopedia

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Chapter : Drafting For additional information on this subject, contact

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

PIPING DRAWINGS (Cont'd)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 2

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 3

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 4

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 5

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 6

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 7

Reducers are made to standard dimensions, as was shown on Figure 3.

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 8

PIPING AND VALVES

NOMINAL PIPE SIZE OUTSIDE DIAMETER SCHEDULE WALL THICKNESS

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 9

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 10

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 11

Pipeline Class or Rating

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 12

Class 150 of ANSI B16.5

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 13

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 14

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 15

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 16

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 17

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 18

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 19

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 20

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 21

The symbol for flanges is shown below (Figure 18).

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 22

SPECTACLE PLATE (OR SPECTACLE BLIND)

Figure 20 shows the symbols used to depict the spectacle blind.

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 23

Determine Pipe Lengths

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 24

Determine Pipe Lengths (Cont'd)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 25

a) Size of pipe diameter (Figure 23).

b) A letter to denote service as shown by Standard Drawing AE 36204 (Figure 24).

c) A numerical serial number, starting at 1, to identify different pipelines at the plant.

Prefix number identifies the rating or class as follows:

1 - Class 150 of ANSI B16.5

When no prefix number is shown, the specification is for a non-pressure service.

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 26

NUMERICAL SERIAL NUMBER

6" - P - 186 - 3A1B

SUFFIX NUMBER (FLANGE TYPE)

TERMINAL LETTER (IF ANY)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 27

ARABIAN AMERICAN OIL COMPANY

A = AIR OTHER THAN INSTRUMENT

LETTER DESIGNATIONS FOR LINE NUMBERS

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 28

Pipe Specification (Cont'd)

A - Pressure service, non-corrosive, including hazardous fluids

FIGURE 25 - SERVICE GROUPS

Suffix number identifies flange facing as follows:

1 - Raised (RF) (for high pressure)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 29

2. Piping detail sheets

On isometric drawings the piping is not drawn to any scale.