Flow Induced Turbulence (FIT)

Instability at the boundary layer in high speed fluid flows can cause dynamic forces on pipewalls. This can cause the pipe to flex at its natural flexing (bending) frequencies causing flow induced vibration. Resonant mechanical behaviour can arise if the system is not adequately supported or pipe supports incorporate incorrect levels of damping.

Effect on Pipework
Piping flexes in an extreme and unpredictable way causing fretting at contact points and risk of fatigue failure particularly in small bore connections to the pipework (<50mm diameter).

Mitigation
Increase the number of pipe supports in critical sections of pipework. Select particular type of pipework supports for FIT control. Local increases in pipewall thickness.