An EPC contractor in Louisiana used IronKit to generate a structured bid for a process plant expansion. The scope covered 18 isometrics across three pipe classes (150#, 300#, 600#) with material ranging from 2" to 10" carbon steel and chrome-moly. IronKit organized the bid by pipe class, summarized weld counts per isometric, and factored in NDE rates by service class. The plant's project engineer accepted it without a single clarification question — the first time the contractor had that experience on an EPC bid.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is process piping bid organized differently from structural steel?
Process piping bids organize by pipe class and isometric number, not by member type. The key sections are: material by class (pipe, fittings, flanges), labor by class (weld count × per-weld rate), NDE by class (percentage × cost), and hydrostatic testing by system. Separating these by class lets the owner compare your pricing to their engineer's estimate line-by-line.
What is PWHT and when is it required on process piping?
Post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) is required on P-Number combinations and thicknesses where the Code mandates it — typically chrome-moly (P5, P91) and thick carbon steel. PWHT involves heating the joint to 1,350°F (for P22) or 1,400–1,450°F (for P91), holding for 1 hr/inch of wall, and controlled cooling. Cost: $250–$400 per weld joint for field electric resistance PWHT.
Why are 100% RT welds so much more expensive per weld than 5% RT?
The unit RT cost per weld is similar ($140–$165), but 100% RT means every weld is examined. More importantly, 100% RT means every weld failure requires two additional examinations and potentially a weld repair + re-test, creating a multiplier effect on NDE cost for low-quality welding. The premium in the bid for Class 600 reflects the higher quality control investment required.
Does IronKit calculate NDE quantities from weld count and percentage?
Yes. You enter the total weld count and NDE percentage for each class and IronKit calculates the RT quantity, multiplies by your per-weld unit price, and adds it as a line item. You can also override the quantity if your count differs from the isometric takeoff.