Introduction
Pipe supports and hangers are critical components in piping systems that ensure stability, alignment, and safe operation. They carry the weight of the pipes, fluids, insulation, and equipment, while also accommodating movements due to thermal expansion, vibration, or external forces. Proper selection and placement of supports are essential to prevent stress, sagging, and potential system failure.
Purpose of Pipe Supports and Hangers
Maintain proper pipe alignment and slope
Reduce stress on pipe materials and connected equipment
Control vibrations and minimize noise
Allow for thermal expansion and contraction
Enhance safety and reliability of the piping system
Types of Pipe Supports
1. Rigid Supports
Rigid supports hold the pipe firmly in place and do not allow movement.
Examples:
Anchors: Prevent both horizontal and vertical movement of pipes.
Shoe or Base Supports: Carry the weight of the pipe and fix it to the structure.
Applications:
Used in high-stress areas where movement must be restricted, such as at equipment nozzles or structural junctions.
2. Spring Supports
Spring supports allow controlled vertical movement to compensate for thermal expansion and contraction.
Types:
Compression Spring Hangers – Support vertical loads while allowing upward or downward movement.
Variable Spring Supports – Adjust automatically to varying loads.
Applications:
Commonly used in power plants, refineries, and long piping runs with significant thermal expansion.
3. Roller and Slide Supports
These supports allow horizontal movement while supporting vertical loads.
Examples:
Pipe Rollers: Permit thermal expansion along the pipe axis.
Sliding Supports: Allow limited lateral movement to reduce stress.
Applications:
Used in pipelines that undergo expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.
4. Guide Supports
Guide supports restrict movement to a specific direction while allowing free motion in other directions.
Applications:
Directing pipes along a predetermined path
Preventing lateral displacement
Controlling the flow of thermal expansion
5. Hangers
Hangers suspend pipes from ceilings, beams, or structural frameworks.
Types:
Clevis Hangers: Support pipes from above, adjustable for height.
U-Bolt Hangers: Simple, sturdy support for small to medium pipes.
Pipe Straps: Fasten pipes to structural elements for light loads.
Applications:
Used for elevated pipe runs, ceilings, and overhead piping networks.
6. Constant Support Hangers
Constant support hangers maintain a nearly constant support force even when pipes move due to thermal expansion or contraction.
Applications:
Critical for systems like cryogenic piping or high-temperature steam lines, where thermal movement can generate large stresses.
Key Considerations for Pipe Supports and Hangers
Load Capacity: Ensure supports can carry the combined weight of the pipe, fluid, insulation, and fittings.
Thermal Movement: Supports must allow for expansion and contraction to avoid overstressing the system.
Vibration Control: Minimize vibration transmission to reduce fatigue and noise.
Corrosion Protection: Choose materials or coatings to prevent corrosion in aggressive environments.
Accessibility: Supports and hangers should be accessible for inspection and maintenance.
Compliance: Follow industry standards like ASME B31.1, B31.3, and MSS SP-58 for design and installation.
Conclusion
Pipe supports and hangers are fundamental to the safety, reliability, and longevity of piping systems. By understanding the types, functions, and proper placement of supports, piping engineers can design systems that handle weight, thermal movement, and vibration efficiently. Proper support selection prevents excessive stress, equipment damage, and operational failures, making it an essential aspect of piping engineering.