Innovative propulsion systems Brugg Pipes Supplies Specialised Tubes for Aerospace

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Brugg Pipes has delivered two vacuum-insulated cryogenic pipelines for a European aerospace company as part of a testing infrastructure for innovative propulsion systems. This project underscores Brugg Pipes' longstanding expertise in highly demanding industrial and cryogenic applications.

Brugg Pipes is known in Europe not only for its district heating pipe systems but is also active in other technical application areas where reliable piping systems are essential under challenging conditions. A recent order from the European aerospace sector makes this evident: for the expansion of a testing infrastructure for novel propulsion systems, Brugg Pipes supplied two flexible, vacuum-insulated cryogenic pipelines.

Specialised pipes for applications down to -200 °C

The two pipelines connect a raised tank for cryogenic media to a lower engine testing facility. In such applications, cryogenic media must be transported safely and with minimal loss, even under challenging thermal conditions. Two piping systems were delivered with outer diameters of 98 and 174 mm, each measuring 185 metres in length. Both systems are equipped with a redundant leakage monitoring system and are designed for temperatures down to -200 °C. 

A key feature of the project was the manufacturing of the pipelines: Brugg Pipes produced single lengths of 90 and 95 metres, meaning that only one connection point was required per pipeline. This reduced number of connections simplified the installation and concurrently decreased potential weak points. This is particularly crucial in cryogenic applications, as it is an important factor for leak tightness and operational reliability.

Radiographic examination of welds

Special attention was given to the purity requirements of the project. Although no traditional cleanroom production was available, the project-specific requirements were met through adjusted manufacturing processes and closely monitored quality assurance. All welds were examined radiographically both in the plant in Wunstorf (Germany) and on-site. This non-destructive testing ensured that the requirements for leak tightness and safety were fulfilled.

Planning, manufacturing, and installation from a single source

In addition to production, Brugg Pipes also took on the technical planning, preparation, and installation and laying of the pipelines. The routing between the tank and the test facility required precise coordination of individual work steps. The installation benefited from the system's flexibility. Compared to rigid pipelines, installation was executed with less effort. The reduced number of connection points also contributed to shortening the assembly time. Martin Rigaud, CEO of Brugg Pipes, summarises: "The project shows that our piping systems can also be used in demanding cryogenic applications. Precise planning, manufacturing in long single lengths, and consistent quality assurance throughout all project phases were crucial."

Example of applications beyond district heating

For Brugg Pipes, this project also exemplifies that the company’s expertise does not solely rely on traditional district heating applications. The company’s piping systems are also used in data centres and other cryogenic applications, such as the transport of liquefied natural gas. The order from the aerospace sector demonstrates how flexible vacuum-insulated piping systems can be applied today—especially where technical precision, controlled manufacturing, and coordinated installation are essential. The examination of welds was conducted both at the production facility in Wunstorf and on-site.