The Essential Guide to Piping Support Standards and ...

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Pipe support, often overlooked, proves to be an indispensable element in industrial infrastructure. Whether in power plants or manufacturing, having the right piping support ensures safety, prevents misalignment, and makes operations more efficient. Read on to learn more about piping supports.

What Is Piping Support?

Piping support is a designed element that transfers the load from a pipe to the supporting structures, referring to mechanisms or structures crafted to hold and stabilize pipes in a specific position within an industrial facility.

Piping supports play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the piping system by preventing sagging, vibration, or excessive movement. Properly designed and installed piping supports ensure the safe and efficient operation of the entire piping network, contributing to the longevity and reliability of industrial structures.

A pipe support serves four primary functions: anchoring, guiding, absorbing shock, and supporting a designated load. These supports may include insulation materials in applications with high or low temperatures. The design of a pipe support assembly depends on the specific loading and operating conditions.

What Are Some Types of Piping Support?

There are several piping supports that are known in the industry.

1. Pipe Bearing Support

These pipe supports are usually primary, directly connecting to the pipe to bear the load of the piping system. The installation specifics depend on the chosen support&#;s size and design. Typically, these supports are either bolt-fastened or welded.

Pipe Support Design

Function

Advantage

Pipe Shoes Provide axial support and prevent movement Distribute the load evenly, reducing stress on the pipe Pipe Saddles Offer lateral support and restrain movement Efficient for maintaining pipe alignment and minimizing vibration Pipe Trunnions Allow rotational movement of the pipe Ideal for supporting pipes with thermal expansion and contraction Wear Pads Reduce friction and protect against wear Extend the life of the pipe by minimizing abrasion and friction

 

To ensure similar behavior when welded and comparable performance under piping process elements or environmental factors, it&#;s essential for support materials and fasteners to resemble those of the supported pipes.

2. Dynamically Loaded Supports

Dynamically loaded pipe supports serve as either primary or secondary supports, offering variable resistance to movement influenced by factors like compression. These supports play a crucial role in minimizing the impact of abnormal dynamic conditions, such as seismic activity, pump trips, safety/relief valve discharge, or rapid valve closure.

Due to their varying resistance, they enable standard movements during normal operation while maintaining precise movement tolerances during abnormal conditions. This ensures the stability and integrity of the piping system under changing circumstances, contributing to safe and efficient operation.

Dynamically Loaded Support

Function

Advantage

Energy Absorbers Absorb and dissipate energy from sudden movements Mitigate the impact of abrupt changes, reducing stress on the piping system Hanger Supports Provide vertical support and dampen vertical movement Efficiently suspend and stabilize pipes, minimizing vibration and ensuring proper alignment Pipe Whips or Hold Down Restraints Restrict horizontal movement during dynamic events Prevent excessive lateral movement, enhancing the overall stability of the piping system Snubbers Control and limit the movement of pipes Ensure controlled and gradual movement, preventing abrupt shifts and reducing stress on the piping components Struts Offer support and limit movement in a specific direction Provide directional stability, preventing unwanted movement and maintaining proper alignment Sway Braces Control lateral movement and sway in piping systems Minimize lateral displacement, enhancing the system&#;s ability to withstand dynamic forces and maintaining alignment

 

3. Constantly Loaded Supports

Constantly loaded supports in pipe systems maintain a steady load, offering consistent resistance against gravitational forces or fixed loads. Unlike dynamically loaded supports, which adjust resistance based on various factors, constantly loaded supports, also known as constants, sustain a static resistance level. This design makes them well-suited for applications with extremely high loads or systems where movements and loading conditions create significant variability.

Constantly Loaded Support

Function

Advantage

Horizontal Provides steady lateral support and resistance Ideal for countering side-to-side movements and maintaining stability Vertical Offers consistent vertical support and resistance Efficient for sustaining upward or downward loads and ensuring stability

 

4. Variable Spring Supports

Variable spring supports in piping systems are essential devices for supporting pipes, especially when dealing with changing loads. These supports play a crucial role in balancing the concentrated gravitational load of pipe sections while accommodating thermal movement.

In piping design, controlling the direction and amount of movement in different pipe sections is a significant function. Variable supports use coiled springs to bear a load and allow movement. The resistance of the coil to a load change during compression, similar to dynamic supports, earning them the name &#;variables.&#;

Unlike other designs, variable springs typically collaborate with slide plates made from stainless steel, PTFE, or graphite in a secondary support manner, rather than attaching directly to the pipes as primary support. This approach ensures flexibility and stability in accommodating varying loads, contributing to the safe and efficient operation of the entire piping network.

5. Threaded Members and Pipe Hangers

Threaded members are like bars or rods with screw-like ends. They are used to connect different parts of pipe support systems. The threaded ends make it easy to adjust and fit them to different pipes. By connecting with other support parts through threading, these members help keep the piping system stable.

Pipe hangers are tools that hold pipes up from structural elements, preventing them from sagging or moving too much. There are different types of hangers, such as clevis hangers and loop hangers, chosen based on factors like the size and weight of the pipes. Pipe hangers play a key role in keeping pipes aligned correctly, reducing vibrations, and ensuring the entire piping system stays strong and reliable.

Threaded Members and Pipe Hangers

Design Function

Advantage

Stainless Steel U-Bolts U-shaped bolts with threads Securely fasten pipes to structural elements Resistant to corrosion, providing durability and strength Clevis Hangers U-shaped hangers with a pin Suspend pipes, allowing vertical movement Facilitate easy adjustments and are suitable for various pipe sizes 2-Bolt Pipe Clamps Clamps with two bolts Hold pipes in place and prevent lateral movement Quick and simple installation, providing effective lateral support Riser Clamps Clamps for vertical pipes Support vertical pipes, accommodating thermal expansion Enable vertical movement while providing stability, reducing stress on pipes 3-Bolt Pipe Clamps Clamps with three bolts Offer additional stability for holding pipes in position Distribute load evenly, reducing stress on pipes and enhancing overall stability Heavy-Duty Beam Attachments Attachments for support beams Connect pipes to support beams in heavy-duty applications Provide robust support in demanding conditions, ensuring long-term reliability

 

When used with the proper fasteners, these supports offer strong, long-lasting, and reliable support for pipes of almost any size.

What Are The Functions and Purposes of Piping Support?

Pipe supports play a crucial role in carrying and spreading the weight or pressures within a piping system. They are particularly vital for managing unusual situations like sudden increases in load, rapid temperature fluctuations, and changes in the structure&#;s position or settling.

1. Stability and Alignment

Piping supports ensure that pipes remain stable and properly aligned within an industrial structure. By preventing sagging or excessive movement, these supports maintain the intended position of pipes, contributing to the overall stability of the piping system.

2. Load Distribution

The primary function of piping supports is to distribute the weight and forces acting on pipes evenly. By doing so, they prevent concentrated stress points, reducing the risk of damage or deformation. Proper load distribution is critical for the longevity and structural integrity of the entire piping network.

3. Vibration and Movement Control

Piping supports play a crucial role in minimizing vibrations and controlling movement caused by various factors, such as fluid flow or thermal expansion. This control not only enhances the safety of the piping system but also ensures smooth operation without undue stress on the pipes.

4. Thermal Expansion and Contraction Accommodation

In response to temperature changes, pipes may expand or contract. Piping supports are designed to accommodate this thermal movement, preventing issues like buckling or distortion. By allowing controlled expansion and contraction, these supports contribute to the durability of the piping system.

5. Preventing Structural Damage

Piping supports serve as a protective measure against potential structural damage. By providing reliable support, they reduce the risk of pipes shifting or exerting excessive force on surrounding structures. This prevention of structural damage ensures the overall safety and reliability of the industrial facility.

What Is The ASME Standard for Piping Support?

ASME B31.3, in Chapter II and Section 321, outlines the rules for supports and devices restraining pipes. It lays down overall requirements for these supports and describes the conditions they should be designed for. While elements like springs and hanger rods fall under ASME B31.3, the structures these supports connect to are not covered. The goal is for support to meet the design objectives, handling both ongoing and occasional loads, along with thermal displacement, ensuring the stability of the piping system.

In conclusion, having a good grasp of piping supports is crucial for you as a piping engineers. It ensures the reliability and safety of industrial piping systems by understanding how to design proper supports, distribute loads effectively, and control alignment. This knowledge is critical in preventing structural problems, maintaining stability, and avoiding potential dangers. Piping engineers with this expertise play a vital role in creating a secure and efficient industrial environment.

If you are looking for the opportunity to enhance your skills in piping design, inspection, and maintenance following industry standards, Petrosync provides a comprehensive ASME B31.3 training program. This training focuses on the details of piping systems, covering design requirements, inspection procedures, and maintenance practices in line with ASME B31.3 standards.

You will gain valuable insights into the critical aspects of piping engineering, ensuring you are well-prepared to meet industry demands and uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance.

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Pipe supports are a critical component to safe and effective piping system engineering.

Much like other pipe components, implementing supports during design and system implementation can help to significantly reduce costs and ease the installation of any required supports.

This guide will provide a foundational overview of pipe support functions, critical pipe support roles, standards and codes, and standard pipe support designs to help you better understand this complex yet critical topic.

What is a Pipe Support?

The term pipe supports can often refer to two different types of components: supports and restraints.

However, both product types are essential for safe long-term operation and are effectively both classified under the single umbrella of pipe support systems.

Supports typically help to shoulder and distribute loads across the system in a manner that allows for safe operation and helps to tie the piping system into structural elements for increased safety and support for all parts of the piping process.

In most cases, these objects help minimize and carry the impact of vertical loads.

work alongside supports, helping to limit movement and ensure that pipes remain positioned within a tolerance determined in the system engineering specifications.

Typically, they help to minimize and carry the impact of horizontal loads.

Why Are Pipe Supports Important?

In most cases, these objects help minimize and carry the impact of vertical loads. Restraints work alongside supports, helping to limit movement and ensure that pipes remain positioned within a tolerance determined in the system engineering specifications.Typically, they help to minimize and carry the impact of horizontal loads.

Pipe supports can make the difference between safe operation and complete systems failure&#;especially in emergencies or moments of non-standard operation.

A well-designed pipe support system will ensure everything remains within tolerance if pipe loads surge, structures shift, or temperatures change drastically.

They can also help to support or trigger overflows and other fail-safes to mitigate the affecting condition and return the system to normal operation as quickly as possible and with minimal risk to both piping systems and operational staff.

What Are Common Goals When Choosing Pipe Support Products?

As with most piping products, determining the best pipe support products, sizes, and implementations will require knowing your exact needs, operating environments, budget, and myriad other factors.

However, in most cases, pipe supports are expected to perform one or more of the following tasks:

• Prevent, reduce, or eliminate pipe stresses to maintain allowable thresholds
• Prevent, reduce, or eliminate leakage at joints due to movement, shifting, or load stress
• Absorb or minimize line vibrations during operation
• Counter or minimize the impact of dynamic loadings, including but not limited to seismic shifts, wind stress, and water hammering
• Minimize lift-off or disengagement between piping and additional support structures during operation
• Avoid excessive pipe sag depending on the implementation and standards in question
• Help manage the impact of exposure to temperature extremes (both environmental and within the process) to ensure safe, consistent operation of the piping system
• Help protect integrated equipment, such as sensors, gauges, valves, gates, from failure due to excessive loading
• To manage and direct thermal loads in desirable directions based upon the thresholds and processes in use
• To help support and minimize the load stresses on other support components within the piping support system

Are There Standards to Consider When Determining Pipe Support Needs?

Yes!

The exact standards applicable to your piping system will depend on your industry and location in most cases.

However, the following are some of the principal codes and standards to consider in common locations around the world:

• US Codes and Standards: MSS-SP-58, MSS-SP-69, and MSS-SP-89

• UK Codes and Standards: BS-

• Germany Codes and Standards: VGB-R-510 L

Pipe Support Types Explored

There are numerous ways to consider grouping

What type of insulation you desire, your intended attachment method, your intended attachment location, and the amount of anticipated movement in your system, for example, might all create different groups of products.

You must consider all elements of your system and consult with an experienced engineer to ensure that your supports meet your needs.

Instead of grouping by use type, we will list the different core designs for

Pipe Bearing Supports

There are numerous ways to consider grouping pipe support products depending on the factors you consider important.What type of insulation you desire, your intended attachment method, your intended attachment location, and the amount of anticipated movement in your system, for example, might all create different groups of products.You must consider all elements of your system and consult with an experienced engineer to ensure that your supports meet your needs.Instead of grouping by use type, we will list the different core designs for pipe supports and pipe restraints available and, where applicable, discuss their pros and cons to help you determine the ideal products for your system based on your needs.

These pipe supports are typically primary supports, meaning they usually connect directly to the pipe to support the piping system load. 

Common pipe bearing support design types include:

• Pipe shoes
• Pipe saddles
• Pipe trunnions
• Wear pads

Exact installation requirements will depend on the size and design of the support chosen. 

However, in most cases, these supports are either bolt-fastened or welded.

should remain similar to those of the supported pipes to ensure similar behavior's when welded and comparable performance when exposed to piping process elements or environmental variables.

Dynamically Loaded Supports

Support materials and fasteners should remain similar to those of the supported pipes to ensure similar behavior's when welded and comparable performance when exposed to piping process elements or environmental variables.

These pipe supports can work as either primary or secondary supports, providing variable resistance to movement based on compression and other variables. 

Common design types include:

• Energy absorbers or shock absorbers
• Hanger supports
• Pipe whips or hold down restraints
• Snubbers
• Struts
• Sway braces

Often, these supports are used to minimize the impact of abnormal dynamic conditions, including but not limited to seismic activity,  pump trips, safety/relief valve discharge, or rapid valve closure.

Because the resistance varies, this can allow for one set of standard movements during normal operation while maintaining strict movement tolerances during abnormal conditions.

Constantly Loaded Supports

Often, these supports are used to minimize the impact of abnormal dynamic conditions, including but not limited to seismic activity, pump trips, safety/relief valve discharge, or rapid valve closure.Because the resistance varies, this can allow for one set of standard movements during normal operation while maintaining strict movement tolerances during abnormal conditions.

Constant spring supports typically feature designs and options similar to dynamically loaded supports.

However, the supports are configured to maintain a static resistance level instead of adjusting resistance based on load and other variables.

This makes them ideal for use in extremely high load conditions or systems where movements and loading conditions can create substantial load variability.

Constantly loaded supports (or constants) typically come in horizontal or vertical designs to help match the support to the load type.

However, unlike previous types mentioned, these are limited more or less to the same overall components and design.

For more spring hanger pipe supportinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Variable Spring Supports

are among the most important devices available to help support pipes.

They are used to balance the concentrated gravitational load of pipe sections while allowing for thermal movement.

Control of the direction and amount of movement of various pipe sections is a major function of piping design.

Variables use coiled springs to support a load and allow movement.

The resistance of the coil to a load changes during compression like

However, unlike those previously discussed designs, variable springs typically work in conjunction with slide plates made from stainless steel, PTFE, or graphite in a secondary support manner instead of attaching directly to the pipes as primary support.

Threaded Members and Pipe Hangers

include more simple and static pieces, often tightened using

Common designs include:

• Stainless steel U-bolts
• Clevis hangers
• 2-bolt pipe clamps
• Riser clamps
• 3-bolt pipe clamps
• Heavy-duty beam attachments

When combined with the appropriate fasteners, these supports provide rigid, durable, and dependable support for pipes of nearly any size.

Summary

• Pipe supports are an essential part of any piping process design.
• Proper component choice, load estimates, and support configuration are essential to optimizing performance and ensuring the safe long-term operation of your piping system.
• Pipe supports help shoulder and distribute loads or stresses in a piping system.
• These systems are especially important for mitigating abnormal conditions, such as load surges, rapid temperature changes, and structural shifting or settling.
• Most regions have codes and standards related to pipe support requirements, so consulting an engineer or professional is critical.
• Pipe supports can be grouped in many ways depending on your needs, including but not limited to attachment type, rigidity, insulation, weldability, function and more.
• Pipe bearing support options include pipe shoes, pipe saddles, pipe trunnions, and wear pads.
• Dynamically loaded supports include energy absorbers or shock absorbers, hanger supports, pipe whips or hold down restraints, snubbers, struts, and sway braces.
• Constantly loaded supports are ideal for use in extremely high load conditions or in systems where movements and loading conditions can create high levels of load variability. Depending on your expected loads, they&#;re available in horizontal or vertical orientations.
• Variable spring supports help support pipe in conjunction with stainless steel, PTFE, or graphite slide plates.
• Threaded members and pipe hangers provide a simplified and highly rigid option for affixing piping directly to structural elements. Options include stainless steel u-bolts, clevis hangers, 2- and 3-bolt pipe clamps, riser clamps, and heavy-duty beam attachments.
  
  

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