A Houston process piping fabricator used IronKit to generate a structured bid for a refinery heat exchanger tie-in. The bid covered 24 spools across 6" and 8" A106 Gr. B carbon steel, with 12% NDE (radiographic testing) specified per ASME B31.3 Class 1 normal fluid service. IronKit organized the bid by spool number, weld count, material takeoff, NDE requirement, and labor — the exact structure the owner's project engineer expected. The contractor said having the weld count explicitly stated (with NDE %) prevented a dispute about inspection scope at billing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "12% RT" mean in a pipe bid?
ASME B31.3 Normal Fluid Service requires 5% random radiographic examination on butt welds. The 12% in this bid reflects an owner specification above code minimum. For 87 total welds, 12% = approximately 11 welds examined by RT. Each weld costs $100–$150 to examine; failing a weld triggers 2 more examinations per ASME B31.3.
How is pipe fab labor typically priced?
Two methods: per-weld (a flat rate per joint by diameter and schedule) or per-hour (time + material). For structured bids, per-weld pricing is cleaner — typically $85–$180 per weld for 6" CS pipe depending on position, schedule, and NDE requirements. IronKit can calculate either basis.
What is a spool drawing and why does it matter?
A spool drawing (isometric) is a 3D representation of a section of piping showing all dimensions, fittings, weld locations, and NDE marks. Bidding without isometrics means you're guessing on weld count and material takeoff. Always request Rev 6+ isometrics before submitting a structured bid.
Does IronKit track weld count by NDE requirement?
Yes. IronKit's pipe bid template separates welds by NDE class (visual-only, RT, UT, PT) and calculates the NDE line item from your specified percentage and per-unit NDE cost. This gives the owner and project engineer a clear picture of inspection scope and budget.