Pipe Supports Key Terms

Learn the language of pipe support systems
By Howard Robertson A pipe support is a device or assembly that supports the weight of pipe. Pipe supports are generally secured to the floor or any other structural support below the pipes.

There are two types of pipe supports: standard support and custom support. A standard support is a vendor-qualified support, made from prefabricated components for use within a certain range of load and movement. A custom support is a custom-designed frame, such as a welded steel frame or pipe rack.

If you are interested in working in the field of piping, there are several key terms that you should understand. This guide covers some of the common terms in piping supports, including expansion loops, pipe hangers, compensators and pipe anchors.

Pipe hangers

Pipe hangers are anchor points to control the expansion in a piping system. Devices, such as valves, heavy flanges and pumps are generally supported independently in a piping system. A pipe hanger is generally suspended from a beam or other structural support above the pipes.
Try:  You can read through information about pipe hangers at TGM, a provider of thermal efficiency solutions for various industries, such as aerospace, transportation and semiconductors. 

Expansion loops

An expansion loop is a loop that lessens the effect of expansion or contraction of the pipeline.
Try:  You can browse through Spirax-Sarco Limited’s  Web site for detailed information about expansion loops.

Piping flexibility

Flexibility is one of the most important factors in piping systems. Thermal expansion (expansion and contraction due to change in the pipe temperature) creates enormous force and stress on the piping system. However, if the piping is flexible, the expansion can be absorbed without creating undue force on the system.
Try:  Project Monitor publishes detailed information on piping flexibility and its importance.

Compensators

Compensators or pipe expansion joints absorb movement and vibration in the pipeline. They are extremely important in systems that transmit high-temperature commodities.
Try:  GlobalSpec, an online resource, provides information on compensators and their applications.

Constant spring hanger

A constant spring hanger (also known as a constant or constant load hanger) supports the pipe's deadweight while allowing vertical movement due to thermal expansion. Constants are at places where maintaining a constant stress is critical. Constants maintain a nearly stable upward load on the pipe as the pipe moves up or down, over a certain range.
Try:  To learn more about constant spring hangers, you can refer to Techno Industry, a spring support manufacturer. Additionally, Piping Technology and Products, a supplier of pipe supports and expansion joints, also provides information about constant spring hangers.

Pipe anchor

A pipe anchor secures the pipe to its support. You will need to design pipe anchors in such a way that they can take the force generated by the piping movement.
Try:  Piping-Designer.com, an information resource for the piping industry, gives a good explanation about pipe anchors.