Piping Design & Routing

Piping Design & Routing services in Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, and throughout the Lower Mainland, BC. Professional piping & plant layout solutions.

OVERVIEW

Our piping design services encompass everything from initial routing studies through detailed isometric development. We design piping systems that balance process requirements with constructability, ensuring that every line can be fabricated efficiently and installed safely.

We develop comprehensive piping material specifications (PMS) that define material grades, pressure ratings, and connection methods. Our line lists capture all critical design parameters, from operating conditions to insulation requirements, providing a complete reference for procurement and construction teams.

  • Pipeline routing optimization for process efficiency
  • Piping Material Specifications (PMS) development
  • Complete line list preparation with operating parameters
  • Isometric drawing development for fabrication
  • Piping plans, sections, and elevation drawings
  • Material take-offs and bill of materials (BOM) extraction
USE CASES & APPLICATIONS

Piping design and routing services are critical for industrial facilities across Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, and throughout BC. We design piping systems for process plants, utility distribution networks, fire protection systems, and building services. Our expertise spans high-pressure steam systems, corrosive chemical processes, cryogenic fluid handling, and standard utility piping.

We support projects ranging from small facility modifications to large-scale plant expansions. Our piping designs serve oil & gas facilities, mining operations, pulp & paper mills, power plants, and chemical processing facilities throughout British Columbia. Each project requires careful consideration of process requirements, operational constraints, and constructability factors.

BC's industrial sector demands piping systems that perform reliably in challenging conditions—from coastal corrosion to seismic events. Our designs account for these local factors, ensuring systems meet BC Building Code requirements while delivering operational excellence. We've supported facilities where optimized routing reduced installation costs by 15-20% while improving maintainability.

For owners managing tight budgets and aggressive schedules, our piping design approach delivers value through smart material selection, efficient routing, and constructability-first thinking. We understand that the best design is one that can be built efficiently by local fabrication shops and installed safely by field crews. This practical focus has helped clients across the Lower Mainland complete projects on time and within budget.

PROCESS & WORKFLOW

Our piping design process begins with understanding process requirements and operational needs. We develop initial routing studies that optimize pipe runs for efficiency while maintaining clear access for operations and maintenance. We create detailed piping material specifications that define material grades, pressure ratings, and connection methods appropriate for each service condition.

We prepare comprehensive line lists that capture all critical design parameters including operating temperatures, pressures, flow rates, and insulation requirements. Our isometric drawings provide fabrication shops with all information needed to build piping spools efficiently. We coordinate with process, mechanical, and structural teams to ensure piping systems integrate seamlessly with equipment and building infrastructure.

What sets IFEL apart is our deep understanding of BC's fabrication and construction industry. We design with local shop capabilities in mind, specifying materials readily available in the Lower Mainland market. Our isometric drawings follow conventions that local fabricators know well, reducing interpretation errors and accelerating fabrication. We maintain relationships with key fabrication shops, understanding their strengths and designing accordingly.

Our line lists and material specifications are more than documentation—they're procurement tools that enable accurate cost estimation and material ordering. We include all necessary information for code compliance, ensuring materials meet CSA and ASME requirements. We coordinate with procurement teams to ensure specifications enable competitive bidding while maintaining quality standards.

INDUSTRY STANDARDS & COMPLIANCE

Our piping designs comply with ASME B31.3 for process piping, ASME B31.1 for power piping, and CSA standards for Canadian projects. We ensure all materials, pressure ratings, and connection methods meet code requirements and client specifications. Our designs account for thermal expansion, pressure loads, and external forces to ensure system integrity throughout the design life.

BC's regulatory environment requires careful attention to provincial codes, WorkSafeBC requirements, and local municipal bylaws. Our designs incorporate seismic considerations specific to BC's seismic zones, ensuring piping systems remain functional after seismic events. We stay current with evolving codes, including updates to CSA standards and BC Building Code requirements.

IFEL's quality assurance process ensures every piping design undergoes peer review before release. We verify code compliance, material selection, and constructability. Our designs include comprehensive documentation that supports permit applications, procurement, and construction. This thoroughness reduces risk, accelerates approvals, and ensures projects proceed smoothly.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

FAQs

What information is included in your piping material specifications?
Our piping material specifications include material grades, pressure ratings, connection methods, and applicable codes and standards. We specify materials appropriate for each service condition, considering factors such as temperature, pressure, corrosion resistance, and cost. Specifications are tailored to project requirements and client standards. We also include material availability information for the BC market, helping procurement teams source materials efficiently.
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Ready to Work With Us?

Partner with IFEL for professional piping design & routing services in Vancouver and Lower Mainland, BC.