Pipeline supports - types and features

Supports are a necessary element of pipeline systems. The fact is that even the highest quality pipe connection will very quickly become unusable if the structure is not securely fastened. Next, we consider what types of these products exist, how the sliding supports for pipelines differ from fixed pipes, and in what cases they are used.

General information

The reliability of the pipeline depends on many factors, such as:

• The climate in which the system is operated;
• System weight;
• External vibrations and more.

Supports are used to reduce the negative impact of most of these factors.

Most often they are used in the following industries:

• Atomic and thermal power plants;
• Highway oil and gas transportation;
• Technological value systems;
• All sorts of engineering designs.

According to GOST 36 146 88 the diameter of the product can be from 18 to 1620 mm. The type of metal for them is selected depending on the characteristics of the line and the product itself.

The most important material requirement is the ability to withstand heavy loads.

Varieties by type of action

All existing types of supports are divided into two types - mobile and stationary. The choice of the type of part depends on the operating conditions of the line and its type. Further, we will learn more about the features of both types (read also the article Pipe Rolling: technology and special tools).

Movable

These elements are used for the organization of ground and above-ground systems. Between them and the pipes are special compensators.

Their main functions are as follows:

• Reducing the impact of unstable temperature on pipes;
• Reducing various kinds of vibrations;
• Reducing the effects of pressure drops inside the pipes.

Most often, these parts are used in the northern regions, which are characterized by rapid temperature changes. The main feature of the movable elements is that they are capable of taking on only vertical loads, but at the same time do not prevent the horizontal displacement of pipes, which occur as a result of temperature expansions.

Movable parts are of several types:

Stationary

Can be used both when laying land, and underground pipelines. As it is not difficult to guess from the name, they fix the pipes in both vertical and horizontal position.

Classification by constructional features

Depending on the installation technology and construction features, the parts in question are classified into:

• Welded housing;
• Clamp hull;
• Bodyless;
• Shield;
• Constructions of steeply curved bends.

Next, take a closer look at all of their species.

Welded

Welded products are distinguished by a variety of species. They are mobile and immobile.

Their advantages include:

• Low price;
• Easy installation;
• Reliability.

Note! Welded parts are used exclusively for steel pipes.

Body clamps

These products can also be mobile and motionless.

They are divided into two types:

• With a round clamp - it is allowed to apply both for steel systems and for some other types of highways.
• With a flat-type yoke - apply only to steel masters.

Note! The hoop systems, which are distinguished by the presence of stiffeners, also belong to body clamps.

Packageless

In fact, these products are ordinary clamps. They are also mobile and immobile. If the former ensure the free movement of the pipes, as a result of which they are also called clamp-type guides, the latter are attached to the base by welding.

Shield

Fixed shield supports are used to fix the vertical sections. Their installation is carried out by welding. Most often they are used when passing a pipe through a wall.

Steep bend constructions

This part is installed under the bend design. Its design can be both mobile and motionless. I must say that these products are used not only for highways, but also for fastening all kinds of equipment.

Installation Features

First of all, it must be said that it is rather difficult to install the supports correctly, so it’s better not to do this operation yourself, but to entrust it to specialists. The fact is that in case of violation of the installation technology, the consequences can be the most unpleasant, since these elements are subjected to heavy loads from the pipeline itself and the fluids flowing through it.

The distance between these parts depends on the diameter of the pipes, as well as the type of the transported fluid and the installation technology of the product. This distance is also an important parameter on which the durability of the pipeline may depend, so professionals should determine it.

Here, perhaps, all the main points that can be said about the features of these parts of pipelines.

Conclusion

The supports intended for pipelines come in a wide variety of designs, so the choice depends on a number of factors. However, in order to ensure the correct operation of the structure, not only must the part be properly selected in one way or another, but the installation instructions must also be observed (see also the article Seamless Pipe: Application Field and Manufacturing Process).

From the video in this article, you can get more information on this topic.