Manufacturers across various industries have steadily increased their dependence on quicker and less expensive alternatives to conventionally built process systems. Modular process skids offer a beneficial combination of flexibility and robustness that can’t be found with traditional process systems. At AGI Fabricators, our custom metal fabrication capabilities allow us to deliver quality skid solutions to meet the needs of even the most complex projects.
What Are Skid Systems?
Skidded or modular process systems are a quickly growing method for implementing new processes into existing facilities. With these systems, the equipment is fully constructed, tested, and validated in a manufacturing environment before it is shipped and installed at the final destination. This allows for reduced installation downtime and faster start-up times.
Modular skids are self-contained and built into a frame for easy transport and installation. These skids can contain everything from complete process systems to single process tasks such as air compression, vacuum, thermal exchange/recovery, and more. Skids are constructed primarily using carbon and stainless steel materials and are primarily used to modularize specific processes for industrial applications. They can be easily moved and relocated if needed using material handling equipment such as forklifts, and they can be customized to meet specific product weight and dimension requirements.
Types of Modular Process Skid Systems
AGI Fabricators can custom fabricate numerous skid types, including:
- Blower skids. A blower skid, also known as a blower package or blower system, refers to a compact and self-contained unit that houses a blower or compressor along with various auxiliary components required for its operation. It is commonly used in industrial applications where a reliable source of compressed air or gas is needed. They are typically engineered with a structural frame that features lifting lugs, casters, or fork pockets for easy mobility.
- Utility skids. A utility skid, also known as a utility module or utility package, refers to a self-contained system that integrates various utility components and equipment into a compact and standardized unit. It is commonly used in industrial settings to provide essential utility services such as power, water, air, or other necessary utilities to support the operation of a facility or process.
- Packaged skids. A packaged skid, also known as a skid-mounted system or skid package, refers to a pre-engineered and pre-fabricated unit that integrates multiple components and equipment onto a single skid or platform. It is a self-contained system that is designed, assembled, and tested off-site before being transported to the installation location.
- Heat exchanger skids. A heat exchanger skid refers to a pre-assembled and self-contained unit that incorporates one or more heat exchangers along with auxiliary equipment and components onto a single skid or platform. It is designed to facilitate the efficient transfer of heat between two fluids, typically for applications involving heating or cooling processes.
- Chiller skids. A chiller skid refers to a self-contained and pre-engineered unit that integrates a chiller system onto a single skid or platform. It is designed to provide cooling for various industrial processes or air conditioning applications where a reliable source of chilled water or other cooling fluids is required.
- Specialty skids. A specialty skid refers to a customized and specialized skid-mounted system that is designed and built for a specific and unique application or process. Unlike standard skid packages, which are often pre-engineered and standardized, specialty skids are tailored to meet the specific requirements and challenges of a particular industry or project.
Benefits of Process Skids
Pre-Fabricated Skids offer several benefits that make them advantageous for specific applications and industries. Here are some key benefits of specialty skids:
- Customization. Specialty skids are designed and built to meet the specific requirements and challenges of a particular application. They are customized to address unique needs, process conditions, and performance objectives. This customization ensures optimal functionality, efficiency, and compatibility with existing systems.
- Streamlined Installation. Specialty skids are typically pre-assembled and tested off-site before delivery, which simplifies the installation process. Since the skid is designed for a specific application, it can be easily integrated into the existing infrastructure, reducing on-site construction time and minimizing disruption to ongoing operations.
- Compact Footprint. Specialty skids are designed to maximize space utilization. By integrating multiple components onto a single skid, they offer a compact footprint, which is especially beneficial in situations where space is limited or expensive. This efficient use of space allows for easy installation in confined areas or facilities with spatial constraints.
- Faster Project Execution. Since specialty skids are pre-engineered and pre-fabricated, they significantly reduce the engineering and construction time required for a project. The standardized design, off-site fabrication, and factory testing ensure faster project execution, enabling quicker commissioning and faster time-to-market.
- Improved Quality Control. Specialty skids undergo rigorous quality control processes during fabrication and testing stages. This ensures that the skid meets the required specifications, industry standards, and performance criteria. The controlled environment of the fabrication facility allows for precise assembly, accurate calibration, and comprehensive testing, resulting in higher quality and reliability.
- Enhanced Performance and Efficiency. By being custom-designed for specific applications, specialty skids are optimized to deliver superior performance and efficiency. The integration of components, precise engineering, and tailored configurations ensure optimal functionality, improved energy efficiency, and effective utilization of resources, leading to cost savings and operational excellence.
- Simplified Maintenance and Service. Specialty skids are designed with ease of maintenance in mind. Components are strategically arranged for accessibility, and comprehensive documentation and support are provided to facilitate maintenance and troubleshooting. This simplification of maintenance tasks reduces downtime, enhances system reliability, and minimizes the need for specialized personnel during routine servicing.
- Scalability and Flexibility. Specialty skids can be designed with scalability in mind, allowing for easy expansion or modification as the process requirements change or evolve. Their modular nature facilitates the addition or replacement of components, ensuring flexibility and adaptability to future needs.
Overall, pre-fabricated skids offer tailored solutions that address specific challenges, improve system performance, reduce project timelines, and enhance operational efficiency. They provide a comprehensive package that streamlines installation, improves quality control, and ensures long-term reliability for specialized applications.
Why Choose AGI Fabricators for Skid Systems
AGI Fabricators is a long-standing leader in fabrication, working with various materials, grades, markets, and disciplines. Our clients prefer our services for the following reasons:
- Quality. We use the highest-quality materials and cutting-edge manufacturing processes to deliver efficient and reliable skid solutions. Our rigorous quality control processes ensure our products meet or exceed industry quality standards.
- Customization. We understand each customer’s unique needs and specifications, offering custom-tailored skid options to meet our client’s application requirements.
- Expertise. Our experienced technicians and engineers bring expertise and knowledge to design and build quality skids that meet the requirements of various applications and industries.
- Customer service. We value our customers and are committed to delivering exceptional customer service. We work with our clients to understand their requirements and deliver a solution that meets their expectations.
- Competitive pricing. In addition to our commitment to delivering high-quality solutions, we also strive to maintain competitive pricing.
Modular Process Skid Systems by AGI Fabricators
The modular nature of skid-mounted systems enhances a facility’s overall efficiency by minimizing installation downtime and interruptions. At AGI Fabricators, we can create a wide variety of skid projects to meet our customers’ unique needs. Backed by over a century of experience, we strive to deliver superior skid solutions using the highest quality materials and fabrication techniques.
For more information about our capabilities, or to get started on your custom skid solution, request a quote today.