Whether the job is to wire guy cables on a brand new flare stack, or if the job is to recalibrate guy wire tension on an existing flare system, it is good to know the fundamentals of proper cabling and tension to ensure that the flare stack structure is sound. Remember that there are three areas of consideration: The stack support side, the ground support side, and the cable that runs between the two ends.
Running New Wire Guy Cables
To run new cables, first we must ascertain the support strength of the stack. This involves knowing the dead weight of the stack, the integrity of the base plate underneath the stack, the location and integrity of the anchor bolts ( where they are oriented, their size, and their base plate supporting structures). It is critical to immediately take into account the land and weather dynamics of the location. Is there seismic activity to consider? Is the environment prone to high winds or wind storms? Also, the temperature load must be considered. The answers to all of these questions will account for how strong the stack’s support detail must be for the guy cabling to hold it up.
The ground support points for guy cables, known as deadmen, must be evaluated in similar fashion. First it is important to consider where these deadmen will be located and their proximity to the stack. For wind, temperature, and seismic activity, the deadmen supports need to be evaluated for tensile strength. And of course, evaluating the whole structure of the anchor bolt of the deadman will give indication to the ground support structure’s tension thresholds for the system it will need to support.
Finally, when knowing the flare stack support side and the ground support side, determination can likewise be made to find the tension that will have to be carried by the guy cables running between the two points. Then, after taking exhaustive measurements of all these factors, the flare stack wire guy experts can calculate the right components to firmly support the flare stack, the ground support systems, and the tensile strength needs of the guy wire.
Servicing Guy Cables: Checking and Maintaining Guy Wire Tension
Because guy wire systems are exposed to constant motion, with tension and load dynamics, these support structures need constant evaluation and maintenance. It is important to make regular visual inspections, take regular tension readings, recalibrate and lubricate. This must be done at both ends and all along the cable lines, and to do this requires proprietary equipment available through professional flare stack guy wire service companies.
