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So, you are searching for the perfect pipe supports for your piping and have just noticed the overwhelming choice you have ahead of you. Do you need a floor pipe support or a hanger pipe support? The choice can be difficult to make, especially if you are unfamiliar with the many types available.

One thing is certain: quality piping supports are important. Beyond this, though, there are five factors to think about when choosing the right pipe support for your piping. This article contains essential information on pipe supports and features the five factors you should keep in mind before you purchase your pipe supports.

How do you support piping?

The ideal way to support heavy piping loads is to use quality piping supports and a bolting system. This solution will ensure the load is carried reliably and safely and can be used even for pipes that have large diameters.

If you are unsure why we use pipe supports, their purpose is not only to anchor the pipe but to guide the pipe too. They are used for shock absorption and, if used in severely fluctuating temperatures, can include materials for insulation purposes.

How can I support insulated piping?

There are always specific conditions to support heavy piping loads, and different types of piping, which includes insulated piping. If you need to support an insulated pipe, a pipe insulation saddle is what you will need. They will support heavy piping loads while preventing the pipe’s insulation from sustaining any damage.

How many types of pipe supports are there?

As well as hanger pipe supports, which are quality piping supports that feature a rod, there are several other types of piping supports - such as floor pipe supports. Take a look at the list below to find out why we use pipe supports and the quality piping supports available:

Lateral restraints

The strategic design of lateral restraints serves to limit the pipe’s movement, particularly with the perpendicular direction of the pipe’s axis. Although they allow the pipe to move, the movement is restricted in terms of its lateral bearing.

Rigid hangers

Both lateral movement and vertical movement of the pipe are prevented with the use of rigid hanger pipe supports. Hanger pipe supports use threaded rods to ensure that the pipes don’t move while they simultaneously support heavy piping loads. 

Insulated pipe supports and snubbers

The reason why we use pipe supports such as insulated, quality pipe support snubbers is that they efficiently prevent the pipes’ contents from transferring to the surrounding location. They will reduce the dispersion of energy from the pipe.

Spring pipe supports

If you want to support heavy piping loads continuously, which might aid thermal movement within the pipes, a spring pipe support is ideal. A spring pipe support will ensure the heavy piping load is supported even when the pipe expands or contracts.

Spring pipe support mechanisms use springs that can contract or expand alongside the pipe’s movements. This is why we use pipe supports such as these.

Floor pipe support

A floor pipe support is specifically designed to mount certain pipes, typically drain pipes that are horizontal to the floor. There are a few main types of floor pipe support, which include: cross band floor pipe supports types and type T floor pipe supports.

Cross band floor pipe supports

Various types of cross band pipe supports are available. They can be used with steel gas pipes or as floor pipe supports for horizontal piping, indoors.

Type T floor pipe supports

Floor pipe supports serve the function of affixing steel pipes, vertically. They have a type T style clamp and are suitable for pipes made of steel.

What are the main types of piping support components and bolting systems?

There are various types of quality piping support bolting system mechanisms available, ranging from sliding supports and pipe clamps to pipe holders, sliding sledges, and guiding systems. The key component required is toothed T-lock head screw connectors. 

What is primary support and secondary support in piping?

The main difference between primary and secondary support in piping is how they connect to the pipe. Primary pipe supports affix to the pipe directly, whereas secondary pipe supports affix to the structure.

Secondary pipe supports will support the primary pipe support and the pipe itself.

How do I choose a pipe support?

Follow the steps listed below to choose the correct pipe support for your project.

1. When choosing a pipe support, consider why we use pipe supports and how they will fit into your design specifications. This involves knowing the material of the pipe and the type of piping load.

• Consider the materials used for insulation, whether the piping is likely to be displaced, and whether you will need an insulation saddle. Remember, insulation saddles protect the pipes insulation from harm.

• You will also need to understand spans and how they relate to piping support mechanisms. You will need to know the optimal spacing between each pipe support and how this might differ between large diameter pipes and small diameter pipes.

If you’re unsure how to calculate pipe supports, the larger the pipe size, the greater the contents of the pipe, and the greater the pipe’s weight. The span should be able to accommodate this weight and the potential for sagging pipes to minimize wasted energy.

• Don’t forget to calculate the weight of your pipes and the weight of the pipe when it is functioning. This means understanding the weight of the materials traveling through your pipe. If you have a floor pipe that uses a floor pipe support, remember that this might be a lighter material than other substances, so choose accordingly.

• Finally, you should consider the temperature of your pipes. Pipes that contain exceedingly cold gases, for instance, will require insulated pipe supports to prevent the creation of ice. Pipes that contain extremely hot liquids or gases will need pipe supports that can sustain high temperatures.

Choose quality pipe supports for your project

Making the right choice can be a challenge when it comes to selecting pipe supports. Always ensure that you select quality pipe supports that help you reduce the amount of energy required for your materials to flow.

Quality pipe supports that are installed correctly will prevent sagging and support your pipes efficiently. Explore your options and choose quality pipe supports for your project.