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Wednesday, September 18, 2019

A Pig for Every Situation


Despite the fact that the technological aspects of pipeline pig hardware continues to be fairly constant, the way they are used consistently changes.

The first mechanical pigs were fairly primitive in nature, being pieced together with barbed wire and wadded fabric. That same basic design has evolved into today's polyurethane or poly pig marvels. Different manufacturers, of course, create their own unique pigs  This is done as they select the types and ratios of materials, including pre-polymers and curing agents that ultimately come together to create a castable product with abrasion resistance, elasticities, various foam densities that influence its effectiveness and durability in any given application.

The types of pigs, and the applications they can be used for, are as varied as the piping industry itself. Typically, pigs are are made in sizes with a 1.5 length to diameter ratio. Keeping your bends, or ells, to a minimum of 1.5D is therefore important for them to be easily piggable. However, tandem pigs can be used to navigate the tighter ells.

Inline inspection tools are also available that when used, give you a more accurate and detailed view of your system, thereby giving you a better plan of ‘attack’ on cleaning your system.

With all the different situations and the various products to choose from, it is always best to hire the services of a qualified pipeline cleaning service, like Professional Piping Services, Inc. to keep your system clean and in peak condition.

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Tampa Root Pruning

The impact of digging around your trees or pruning a tree’s roots can cause damage to the root system resulting in a decline in the overall health of the tree and the possibility of the tree falling over.   Both scenarios cause liability and safety concerns.

While mature trees are normally more susceptible to long term damage than younger, more vigorous trees, damage to the tree depends on many factors such as the size of the cuts, how close the cuts are made to the trunk and how many cuts are made. Shallow root systems, roots in compacted or poorly drained soil are also likely to suffer greater damage from digging, root pruning or other construction activities close the tree trunk.

Opinions on how close to the tree you can cut the roots varies depending on who you ask.  Some experts recommend no closer than 6 to 8 inches from the trunk for each inch of the trunks diameter on mature trees.  There are others who prefer that roots not be cut no closer than 3 to 5 times the trunk diameter.

There are many factors to be considered that can affect how your tree responds to root pruning.  Factors such as … is the tree already leaning?  What are the size of the roots? What species of tree is it? What is the tree’s age and condition? What is the soil type?  How close to the trunk will the cuts be made?

With such an important decision to be made, it’s best to consult an expert to discuss the best course of action. Call and speak with one of our trained staff at Mid Florida Tree Service today.  We’re here to help you make the right decision.