Pipefitter Valves, Fittings, and Supports 2

Question 1

What is the primary difference between a 'full port' and a 'reduced port' ball valve?

Accepted Answer

A full port valve has a bore equal to the pipe ID; a reduced port has a smaller bore that restricts flow

Answer

A full port valve handles higher pressure than a reduced port valve

Answer

A full port valve can be used for throttling; a reduced port is for on/off service only

Answer

A full port valve opens fully in a quarter turn; a reduced port requires multiple turns

Question 2

What is a 'check valve,' and what is its function in a piping system?

Accepted Answer

A self-actuating valve that allows flow in one direction only and prevents backflow

Answer

A manual valve used to check the position of other valves in the system

Answer

A pressure relief valve that opens when pressure exceeds a set point

Answer

A valve with a visual flow indicator to check that fluid is flowing

Question 3

What is the function of a 'pressure relief valve' (PRV) in a piping system?

Accepted Answer

To automatically open and release excess pressure when system pressure exceeds the valve's set point, protecting the system from over-pressure

Answer

To reduce upstream pressure to a lower, constant downstream pressure

Answer

To relieve vacuum conditions by admitting air into the piping system

Answer

To control flow rate by throttling based on downstream pressure

Question 4

What is a 'spring hanger' used for in process piping systems?

Accepted Answer

To support pipe weight while allowing controlled vertical movement due to thermal expansion or settling

Answer

To provide seismic restraint for pipe during earthquakes

Answer

To maintain constant pipe slope in drain lines

Answer

To anchor pipe to prevent any movement at a fixed point

Question 5

What is the purpose of the 'body-to-bonnet' joint on a gate valve, and how is it typically sealed?

Accepted Answer

It seals the pressure boundary where the bonnet (containing the stem and packing) joins the valve body, typically with a gasket and bolted connection

Answer

It connects the valve body to the pipeline flanges using a ring-type joint

Answer

It seals the stem penetration to prevent external leakage along the stem

Answer

It provides the connection point for the valve actuator or handwheel

Question 6

What is a 'pipe shoe' and when is it used instead of a standard pipe clamp?

Accepted Answer

A shoe is a cradle welded to the pipe bottom that sits on a structural support, used for insulated pipe to maintain insulation integrity

Answer

A shoe is a rubber-lined clamp used on copper pipe to prevent galvanic corrosion

Answer

A shoe is a sliding foot on a spring hanger that allows lateral movement

Answer

A shoe is a protective cover for pipe threads during construction