Pipe supports and hangers are devices which transfer the loads from the pipe or the structural attachment to the supporting structure or equipment. The load includes the weight of the pipe, the content that the pipe carries, all the pipe fittings attached to pipe, and the pipe covering such as insulation. The four main functions of a pipe support are to anchor, guide, absorb shock, and support a specified load.
Pipe supports include rod hangers, spring hangers, sway braces, turnbuckles, struts, anchors, saddles, rollers, brackets, and sliding supports. Structural attachments are elements that are welded, bolted, or clamped to the pipe, such as clips, lugs, clamps, clevises, and stops. Pipe supports used in high or low temperature applications may also contain insulation materials.
The overall design configuration of a pipe support assembly is dependent on the loading / operating conditions and pipe support location.
COMMON SECONDARY PIPE SUPPORTS USED
There are no one standard of pipe supports design as long it could meet the requirement (rest or/and restrain). But, as the industry evolved, it has developed the most common pipe supports that will be used, though the detail design may vary based on designer's decision and imagination. These common pipe supports also can be combined to serve its purpose.
1.Pipe Shoe - Like a shoe, before it touches the structure. Usually used when it is hot/cold pipe and insulated, dissimilar material from the structure, or have piping slope.
2.Clamped Support - Prohibits vertical upward movement. Sometimes used to serve as anchor too. Pipe shoe may welded to clamp when the pipe temperature is above 400 degree.
3.Guide - Permits movement along axis in certain limits. As its name, it makes sure pipe will not make excessive movements from where it should stay.
4.Anchor - Fully fixed. No go for any expansion/contraction in all directions. Can be done by fully welded or bolted between pipe and structure.
5.Dummy Leg - Basically an extension pipe welded to an elbow, to provide support either as a resting, anchor, etc.
6.Stopper - Like its name, it stops longitudinal movement of the pipe.
7.Hangers - Support suspended piping that limits its vertical and lateral movements. There are Rigid Hangers and Spring Hangers.
