Pipe Supports & Hangers

Pipe Supports definition :

Pipe Supports refers to a mechanical device or structure used to carry the weight and control the movement of a pipe in a piping system. These supports are essential to ensure the stability, alignment, and integrity of the piping under various conditions like thermal expansion, vibration, or seismic activity in pipe lines.

Constant Pipe Supports :

Constant Pipe Supports are specialized spring support used to maintain a constant supporting force on a pipe or piece of equipment throughout its vertical movement (typically due to thermal expansion or contraction). Unlike variable spring supports (where the support load changes with movement), a constant support uses a counterbalancing mechanism to provide nearly uniform support force across the travel range.

Constant Pipe Supports purpose :

  • Maintain a Constant load : The supporting force remains nearly unchanged across the entire range of vertical pipe movement. It’s prevents overloading or under-supporting the pipe or connected equipment.
  • Accommodate Vertical movement : Handles large pipe displacements caused by Thermal expansion/contraction, Pressure fluctuations, settling or movement of structures etc.
  • Protect connected equipment : Constant load avoids transferring extra forces to : Pumps, Turbines, Nozzles, Expansion joints etc.
  • Reduce stress on pipe and supports : Ensures smooth movement without inducing excessive stress in the piping system or structural frame.

Constant Pipe Supports uses :

  • High-Temperature Piping systems : In power plants, refineries, and chemical plants. Thermal expansion causes pipes to rise or fall. Constant Pipe Supports accommodate this movement without load fluctuation.
  • Protecting sensitive equipment : Turbines, Pumps, Compressors, Heat ex-changers. These machines are sensitive to changing support loads. Constant Pipe Supports ensure stable force.
  • Large vertical movement : In systems with >75 mm vertical travel, such as : long vertical risers, Tall outdoor pipe racks, Variable spring supports aren’t accurate enough in these cases.
  • Seismic or Dynamic conditions : In regions with earthquakes or vibrations, Constant Pipe Supports can be paired with snubbers to allow movement but absorb shock.
  • Offshore & floating structures : Platforms or ships where structural movement is common. Constant Pipe Supports prevents load swings when decks move.

Constant Pipe Supports installation :

  • Verify the support specification matches pipe size, load, and travel.
  • Inspect the support for damage or defects.
  • Ensure the mounting structure (beam, column, or base) can carry the load safely.
  • Check for any manufacturer instructions or requirements.
  • Position the support in the correct location along the pipe run.
  • For hanging supports : Attach hanger rods or chains securely to the structural members.
  • se proper hardware (nuts, washers, lock nuts).
  • For base-mounted supports : Secure the base plate firmly to the foundation or support structure. Use leveling tools to ensure support is plumb and level.
  • Place the pipe on the support flange, shoe, or clamp.
  • Align the pipe so it rests properly on the support without side loads.
  • For clamp-type supports, tighten bolts/nuts evenly to avoid distorting the pipe.
  • Ensure the pipe can move freely within the allowed vertical travel.
  • Adjust the spring preload or set load according to design load values.
  • Use a load cell or spring scale if available to verify force.
  • Lock adjustment nuts or bolts after setting load.
  • Manually move the pipe (if possible) through the expected vertical travel.
  • Confirm the support maintains a near-constant load throughout the movement.
  • Check for smooth operation without binding or sticking.
  • Confirm all bolts, nuts, and locking devices are secured.
  • Check for proper corrosion protection (paint, galvanizing).
  • Record support ID, load set point, and installation notes for maintenance.

Additional tips :

  • Do not weld or modify the support unless approved by the manufacturer.
  • Maintain clearance around the support for inspection and maintenance.
  • Avoid applying loads beyond the support’s rated capacity.

Variable Pipe Supports :

Variable Pipe Supports (or variable spring hanger/support) are a type of pipe support that uses a spring mechanism to accommodate vertical pipe movement due to thermal expansion or contraction, while allowing the supporting force to vary slightly across the travel range. It’s commonly used when the vertical movement is relatively small and the system can tolerate some variation in the support load.

Variable Pipe Supports purpose :

  • Piping systems expand when heated and contract when cooled.
  • Variable supports allow vertical movement of the pipe to prevent over stressing or damaging pipe sections, welds, and connected equipment.

Supports pipe weight with flexibility :

  • Carries the dead weight of the pipe and its contents.
  • Unlike rigid supports, they adjust to changes in load distribution due to movement.

Reduces stress on equipment nozzles :

  • Without vertical flexibility, movement in the pipe can apply excessive load on connected equipment (e.g., pumps, boilers, turbines).
  • Variable supports minimize transmitted forces.

Ensures safe system operation :

  • Prevents issues like : Pipe rupture, Flange leakage, Structural damage, Misalignment & helps maintain system integrity across temperature and pressure cycles.

Cost-effective for moderate movements :

  • When movement is moderate (e.g., <50 mm), variable supports are simpler and more economical than constant spring supports.
  • Reduces complexity while still protecting the system.

Improves maintenance and lifespan :

  • Reduces fatigue and wear on components.
  • Extends service life of the entire piping system.

To support vertical load while allowing movement :

  • Carries the weight of the pipe and its contents.
  • Allows vertical travel due to expansion or contraction.

To reduce stress on piping and equipment :

  • Prevents excessive stress at pipe connections, flanges, and equipment nozzles (e.g., pumps, turbines).

To maintain pipe alignment :

  • Ensures that piping systems stay properly aligned during thermal cycling.

To improve system safety and reliability :

  • Reduces risk of pipe buckling, sagging, or vibration-related damage.

To absorb minor displacements :

  • Manages smaller vertical displacements where constant support is not necessary.

To accommodate varying operating conditions :

  • Handles changes in weight and pipe position during startup, shutdown, or normal operations.

Variable Pipe Supports uses :

  • Thermal expansion compensation : Allows the pipe to move vertically when it heats up or cools down. Prevents stress buildup and damage from thermal cycling.
  • Support for heavy piping : Carries the dead weight of the pipe and fluid inside. Used in systems where rigid or fixed supports would cause over stress.
  • Protection of equipment nozzles : Reduces loading on connections to pumps, turbines, boilers, and vessels. Helps maintain alignment and avoid leaks or damage.
  • Absorbing vertical movement : Especially effective for vertical pipe runs or sloped piping systems. Useful when ground settlement or building movement is possible.
  • Reducing vibration and noise : Damps some of the movement in dynamic systems, contributing to smoother operation.