Piping Material Take Off (MTO): MTO, BOM, BOQ & MTO Stages

Introduction

Piping Material Take Off (MTO) is a critical component in the execution of any piping project. It ensures accuracy in cost estimation, resource planning, and procurement, forming the backbone of efficient project management. By identifying and listing all necessary materials, MTO aids in the seamless completion of projects within budget and on time.

In this article, we will explore the details of Piping Material Take Off, including its purpose, components, stages, and its relationship with the Bill of Material (BOM) and Bill of Quantity (BOQ). We will also provide insights into creating an effective MTO and share common FAQs to clarify related concepts.

Quiz on Piping Material Take Off

1. What is the main purpose of the Preliminary MTO?

Choose the correct answer:

A) To finalize the procurement of materials
B) To provide an initial estimate of required materials
C) To list all warehouse stock
D) To ensure final installation accuracy

Show Answer

Correct Option: B
Explanation: The Preliminary MTO provides an initial estimate of required materials based on available documents such as P&ID and PMS. For example, it helps plan the procurement of pipes, fittings, and valves in the early stages of a project.

2. What is a key difference between a Bill of Materials (BOM) and an MTO?

Choose the correct answer:

A) BOM is used for purchasing, while MTO is not
B) MTO includes specialty items, while BOM does not
C) BOM is specific to isometric drawings, while MTO is project-wide
D) MTO is used during construction, while BOM is not

Show Answer

Correct Option: C
Explanation: BOM is specific to individual piping isometric drawings, providing a list for fabrication and construction of a line. In contrast, the MTO is a comprehensive, project-wide document, listing all materials required. For example, a BOM might list items for one pipeline, while MTO covers all pipelines in a project.

3. Which of the following is typically included in an MTO sheet?

Choose the correct answer:

A) Line numbers and item quantities
B) Dimensions and cost estimates
C) Item weights and project deadlines
D) Storage requirements and material types

Show Answer

Correct Option: A
Explanation: An MTO sheet typically includes line numbers, quantities, material specifications, and other details necessary for procurement and construction. For example, it specifies the number of valves and their sizes for each line.

4. What is the primary purpose of a Bill of Quantity (BOQ)?

Choose the correct answer:

A) To guide warehouse material allocation
B) To act as a tendering document
C) To finalize the construction schedule
D) To list unused materials

Show Answer

Correct Option: B
Explanation: A Bill of Quantity (BOQ) is primarily a tendering document, outlining the scope of materials for the entire project. For example, it provides contractors with a detailed breakdown of piping components required for bidding.

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What is Piping Material Take Off (MTO)?

Piping Material Take Off (MTO) is a systematic list of all materials needed to fabricate and construct a piping system as per the design requirements of a project. This includes:

• Pipes
• Piping fittings
• Valves
• Flanges
• Gaskets
• Fasteners
• Specialty parts such as strainers, steam traps, flame arresters, rupture discs, expansion bellows, sight glasses, hoses, and sample coolers.

The MTO serves as a foundational document that facilitates various aspects of project planning and execution.

Purpose of Piping MTO

1. Cost Estimation:
   • Enables accurate budgeting.
   • Prevents cost overruns by providing a clear understanding of material requirements.
2. Resource Planning:
   • Helps allocate resources efficiently.
   • Minimizes delays caused by material shortages.
3. Procurement Guidance:
   • Ensures correct quantities and specifications of materials are sourced.

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Components of a Material Take Off (MTO)

An MTO typically includes the following information:

• Line number
• Name of piping items
• Main size and reducing size
• Short code of items
• Piping class/specification
• End/Face type
• Thickness/Rating
• Material type
• Dimensional standard
• Item type
• Quantity/Length
• Weight
• Remarks (for notes related to piping items)

Sequence of Items in an MTO

1. Pipe/Spool
2. Fittings/Components
3. Flanges
4. Gaskets
5. Fasteners
6. Spacers & Blanks
7. Valves
8. Specialty Items

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Stages of MTO Preparation

The MTO preparation process involves multiple stages to ensure accuracy and relevance at different phases of the project lifecycle. Below are the primary stages:

Preliminary MTO

• Documents Required:
  • Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
  • Piping Material Specifications (PMS)
• Purpose:
  • Provides a rough estimate for budgeting and tendering.

Intermediate MTO

• Prepared during the detailed design phase.
• Used to refine initial estimates and plan procurement.

Final MTO

• Created after the completion of the design.
• Used for procurement and resource allocation.

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Bill of Material (BOM) in Piping

The Bill of Material (BOM) is a comprehensive list of components required to fabricate and construct a specific piping line. Unlike the MTO, the BOM is not used for procurement but serves as a guide for warehouse teams and fabricators during the construction phase.

Features of BOM:

• Provides materials for individual piping isometric drawings.
• Used during the construction phase.
• Includes line-specific details.

Feature	BOM
Purpose	Material provision for construction
Associated Document	Piping Isometric Drawings
Scope	Specific to individual lines

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Bill of Quantity (BOQ) in Piping

The Bill of Quantity (BOQ) is a tendering document that covers the scope of materials for the entire project. While it provides an overall estimate, it is subject to changes as the MTO evolves through various stages.

Features of BOQ:

• Used during tendering and bidding.
• Covers materials for the entire project.
• Serves as a reference document for initial cost estimation.

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Benefits of an Accurate MTO

1. Enhanced Cost Control: Prevents over-budgeting and under-budgeting.
2. Improved Project Scheduling: Reduces risks of delays by ensuring material availability.
3. Optimized Procurement: Avoids over-purchasing or under-purchasing materials.
4. Better Communication: Provides a clear reference for all project stakeholders.

Tips for Effective MTO Preparation

• Collaborate with design and procurement teams.
• Validate input documents such as P&IDs and PMS.
• Regularly update MTOs during the project lifecycle.
• Use software tools to automate and minimize human errors.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the primary difference between MTO, BOM, and BOQ?

• MTO lists materials for procurement.
• BOM provides materials for construction.
• BOQ estimates material scope for tendering.

2. Why is an MTO important for piping projects?

• It ensures cost control, resource planning, and procurement efficiency.

3. Can MTOs be prepared manually?

• Yes, but automated tools are recommended for accuracy and efficiency.

4. At which stage is the BOQ typically prepared?

• BOQs are prepared during the tendering and bidding phases.

5. What documents are essential for creating an MTO?

• P&IDs and PMS are the primary documents required for MTO preparation.

Popular courses by EPCLAND on Piping Engineering:

1. Complete Course on Piping Engineering
2. Piping Layout Engineering
3. Piping Material Engineering
4. Piping Stress Analysis

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