Pipes

Supports of pipelines: classification and features of installation

March 29, 2020

Pipe supports are indispensable structural elements when laying various communications. These products take on the load of the pipeline, which is then distributed to the load-bearing structures or transferred to the soil. To date, there are many types of pipelines, which differ in manufacturing material and technical characteristics. Different types of pipes are required for each type of pipe.

There are many types of supports for different types of pipelines

What do you need supports for and where are they used?

Pipe supports perform a very important function - fixing the communication in the required position. exept this, these products exclude the deformation process of communication under the influence of temperatures. Vibrations occur in many pipelines during the transportation of a working medium. Vibration damping is another useful function of support elements.

Pipe supports affect the reliability of the structure as a whole. Therefore, it is very important to install these products correctly, that they cope well with the tasks set before them.

Supports differ in type and purpose. The operational area of ​​these devices is quite wide. They are used to record such communications:

  • pipeline constructions at various enterprises;
  • housing and communal communications;
  • fittings of nuclear power plants;
  • fittings of thermal power plants (TES);
  • gas and oil pipelines.

The support under a gas pipe should differ in high technical characteristics, especially if the pipeline is laid in adverse climatic conditions. exept this, the support for the gas pipe must protect the communication from possible breakdowns in the places of its fastening.

Supports hold the pipes in a given direction and protect them from deformation

Features of supports for pipelines

Operational safety and necessary indicators of tightness of various communications, are provided not only thanks to high-quality pipes, but also through the use of ancillary equipment. Such equipment includes supports for fastening pipes.

If you refer to the relevant documentation, then there you can find information about it, that such an element, as a support is not a separate building detail, and is regulated as a constructive element of communication itself. Supports perform many useful functions. Consider the main ones:

  • this product protects the pipe from damage at the point of contact with the supporting structure;
  • ensures the correct location of the pipeline in space;
  • distributes the load along the entire length of the communication and facilitates their transfer to the supporting structures;
  • eliminates vibration excitement, and also reduces the voltage in the pipeline.

In the people supports for fastening of pipes still name "suspension brackets", however, this is not the correct name in all cases. The point is, that the suspension is one of the types of supports. Therefore, the generalization of all products of this type under this name is the wrong decision.

All supports for pipelines are divided into types depending on two main characteristics:

  • installation option;
  • mobility or inertia.

Supports are divided into movable and immovable, the latter apply there, where rigid fixing of pipes is required

According to the installation option, there are two types of these structural elements of the pipeline:

  • ordinary;
  • hanging products.

pay attention! A feature of hanging devices is that, that they are mounted above the pipeline axis.

Suspended models can be fixed to the plates, ceilings, etc.. d. It is worth saying, that the suspended models according to the installation option belong to the mobile type. The mobility of the support is a property, which allows it to move along or across the axis of the pipeline. Movable supports are able to move in the two directions listed above, and immovable differ in that, firmly fixing the pipe in the desired position.

Consider two main functions, which perform moving models:

  • such products transmit the reaction forces of the pipeline to the supporting structure. It is worth noting, that this process must take place without changing the position of the point, in which the transfer of the reference reaction;
  • reducing the stress factor in the walls of the pipeline.

Varieties of supports for pipelines

To date, there are several types of supports for pipelines, which differ in their design and purpose. Consider the main types of supports, which are used in the installation of pipeline structures.

The type of support is selected depending on the type of highway and its operating conditions

Bodyless supports. Such supports perform the same functions, which are clamps and are divided into two main groups:

  • mobile caseless products;
  • fixed bodyless products.

It should be noted, that the very concept of sliding support is incomparable with a movable bodyless product. It is necessary to mount mobile rigid devices without rigid tightening of a collar, allowing communication to feel free to move in the longitudinal plane. Such models are also called clamp guides. Fixed models are mounted quite simply: firmly tightened to the base, which excludes the movement of the pipeline structure.

Body welded. Usually, this type of support is used in the installation of steel communications. Fastening of such device is carried out by means of welding (hence the name).

Such models are considered the most convenient in terms of production and, exept this, are quite democratic price. As in the previous case, body welded supports are divided into movable and immovable. In some normative documents the mobile case welded support is regulated as variable. The design of the body welded devices may be different.

Cabinet clamps. Such models are conventionally divided into two groups:

  • with a collar, having a round shape (in this case, the material of the clamp is a metal rod);
  • with a collar, which has a flat shape (is made of a metal strip).

Like other supports, body clamp models can be movable (sliding) and motionless. Ware, having a flat collar, are used by and large at installation of steel communications, but, in some cases they are used for pre-insulated pipe structures. And models, which have a round collar, are used only at installation of steel pipelines. One of the types of such supports is a tow support, which differs from other topics, having stiffening ribs. Stiffening ribs are needed to strengthen the product.

The support with a flat collar can be used for fastening and usual steel, and pre-insulated pipes

Supports under assignment. Mounted specifically for bending communications, namely - under diversion. There are such types of supports for taps:

  • under branches of the bent type;
  • under branches welded.

Such models, from an operational point of view, are divided into: movable and immovable. exept this, such models are used to fix various fittings during installation.

Supports of fastening of vertical pipelines. Such models are used to secure vertical sections of the pipeline structure. By design, they are "paws", which are fixed by welding on the pipeline. Such models are based on beams or slabs.

Shield supports. Such models have the same look, as previous and used in the case, when it is necessary to lay the pipeline through the wall. Usually, such devices are stationary.

Shield support, usually, is motionless, it can be used when the pipe passes through the wall

Pendants of pipelines. Pendants are special devices, which are used to fix the communication on the beam or ceiling. Depending on design features and a way of installation of a support on a pipe they are divided into two groups:

  • clamps;
  • welded.

exept this, they can be:

  • single-stranded (consist of one thrust);
  • double-stranded;

The movement of the pipeline, which is fixed by such devices is provided by a cardan suspension.

Spring blocks. These devices are mounted on various communications and perform a function, depreciating, distributing the load along the entire length of the pipeline and eliminating its deformation. This product is used as a structural element of supports or suspensions.

Manufacturing materials

Supports for pipelines are made mainly of metallic materials. It has to do with that, that such elements must have excellent characteristics and resistance to pressure. Installation of pipes on supports is a responsible measure, which requires special construction skills and knowledge, as well as experience. In case of incorrect installation, an emergency may occur, since these structural elements of the pipeline structure is quite strong pressure.

Supports are often made of metals, corrosion resistant

Usually, the following material is used for the production of pipe supports, like steel. Steel has a high coefficient of strength and is best suited for these purposes. However, except steel, other metals are used in the performance of these structural elements of the pipeline. Consider them:

  • aluminum;
  • titanium;
  • brass;
  • copper.

Supports from the materials listed above, which are used for various household or specialized purposes. It is worth noting, that the supports for pipelines must have good resistance to the harmful effects of corrosion, therefore at a production stage various protective structures are put on their surface.

Useful Information! Various paints and enamels can act as protective anticorrosive structure, and the surface of the product can be galvanized. Galvanized steel has a high resistance to corrosion. And it is also worth noting, that the application of various protective compositions on the pipes, in addition to the protective function, gives them a more presentable appearance.

exept this, supports can be made of various modern polymeric materials and are used at installation of economic communications indoors. Polypropylene is considered to be the most popular polymer for the production of these devices (PP). Polypropylene support has the following advantages:

  • low cost, in comparison with metal analogues;
  • no welding equipment is required for the installation of the polypropylene product;
  • due to its low weight facilitates the design as a whole;
  • accelerates the process of laying communication.

When laying household networks from polymer pipes, polypropylene supports are used

Properties of polypropylene allow to use it at installation of pipelines. As well as supports for polypropylene utility pipes perform an insulating function, so they are not afraid of electrical influences.

exept this, it is worth mentioning another material - stones. Concrete is used in the manufacture of support rings and their foundation. Be sure to note, that the production of supports is regulated by state quality standards and any deviation from, described in that documentation, production process threatens to obtain low-quality products.

Features and device of fixed supports for pipelines

Fixed supports for different pipelines are necessary for a clear fixation of communication in space. The use of such supports is aimed at eliminating the displacements of the pipeline in the longitudinal or transverse direction.

Fixed models are used to fix pipelines, mounted in two ways:

  • external;
  • internal (underground).

Installation of such supports is carried out by means of their fixing by frameworks from reinforced concrete. So, in the necessary sections of the pipeline supporting structures are organized. Supporting structures on the pipeline are not equidistant from each other, and communication is divided into segments, which have different lengths. The length of the segment depends on the characteristics of special compensators, which are located between fixed supports.

Depending on the type of line gasket, supports with or without an insulating layer are used

At external and internal laying of communications fixed supports for pipes are widely applied. If laying will be carried out by a channelless method underground, supports are used, equipped with effective waterproofing. Usually, polyethylene acts as a waterproofing (PE) shell. Galvanized waterproofing is used for external installation of communication.

Consider the structural elements, which are part of the fixed model:

  • steel pipe;
  • steel sheet, obtained by hot rolling;
  • polyurethane foam (PPU);
  • special heat-resistant tape;
  • galvanized shell;
  • centralizer;
  • polyethylene shell.

Importantly! Only the strongest and most reliable grades of steel are used in the production of fixed supports for pipeline communications.

Steel sheet, produced by hot rolling, is divided into three types depending on quality:

  • usual;
  • low-alloy;
  • structural (is of the highest quality).

The center is called a structural element of a fixed support, which simplifies the centering of the pipe ends before connecting them. Today, centralizers are divided into two main types:

  • external;
  • internal.

In many cases, special hubs are used, allowing to place correctly a pipe in a support

External devices center the pipe from the outside and are divided into:

  • link;
  • eccentric;
  • hydraulic jack.

Link centralizers can carry out centering of pipes with indicators of section from 57 to 2224 mm. They have excellent resistance to low temperatures. It has to do with that, that they are made of frost-resistant steel. The second version of the hubs is universal, as it is capable to center pipes with any indicators of section. Hydraulic jacks are used to center very heavy pipes or pipes with deformed areas. Effort, which can be transmitted using such devices, is approximately 12 tons.

Internal hubs have one important advantage - when they are used, long-term welding of pipes from the inside is possible.. Due to this advantage, the seams are made better. The disadvantage of such products is, that due to their weight for their transportation it is necessary to use special equipment.

Consider the main operational areas, where fixed supports of pipelines are used:

  • when laying a main gas pipe or oil pipeline;
  • communications of various orientations at the enterprises;
  • for structures at nuclear and thermal power plants.

Such supports are widely used when laying communications in low temperatures. Operation of these elements of a pipeline design in northern regions allows to prolong service life of the pipeline.

Fixed supports are used when laying highways, working in special conditions - oil, gas, heating networks

Installation of fixed supports

Installation of such supports is carried out on pipelines of various directions. Usually, they are immediately inserted at the installation site. As mentioned above, such supports divide the pipeline into segments, and special bellows-type compensators are mounted between the supports. Expansion joints maximally protect the pipeline from deformation, which occurs as a result of low temperatures.

Fixed models with the help of welding equipment are fixed to the platforms and fastened to the pipeline with the help of fasteners. It is worth noting, that for more reliable fastening to these devices special metal plates are welded (close to the ends of the clamp).

There is one important rule: a certain gap must be observed between the support and the clamp, which must be equal to 1,5 mm. exept this, in order to protect the communication from corrosion between it and the fixed support lay an aluminum sheet.

Features and characteristics of sliding supports for pipelines

Sliding support for pipelines is used, usually, when laying communications on the ground (external way). The main function of such a device is, to ensure the free movement of the pipeline horizontally, and vertically. exept this, an auxiliary function of such devices is the protection of the pipeline structure from abrasion.

Sliding supports are mounted on those highways, pipes which can be narrowed and expanded under the influence of temperature

pay attention! Sliding supports are mounted on communications, which need compensation for seasonal temperature changes. Due to temperature differences, such pipelines expand and narrow in the two above-mentioned planes..

Sliding models ensure the stability of pipeline communication and balance its movement, which occurs due to temperature fluctuations.

Consider the structural elements, which are part of the sliding model:

  • basis, as which can act, example, corner;
  • semicircular pipe holder (made of metal);
  • special gasket;
  • fasteners (nuts and bolts).

All movable supports are classified into three main types:

  • hard;
  • elastic;
  • movable supports of constant effort.

Rigid supports are divided into:

  • guide supports;
  • rigid suspensions;
  • sliding bearings.

Guide products prevent the movement of communication down and in a certain direction horizontally. Rigid suspension brackets are devices, which provide the greatest mobility of the pipeline structure. The sliding support excludes movement vertically downwards. Supports of elastic type possess such rigidity only in case, when the pipe moves in the vertical direction. In this case, there is a pattern: the stronger the load on the support element, the further there will be a shift of the pipeline. The support of constant effort withstands the effort exerted on it, regardless of the movement of communication.

To protect against rust, the product can be primed and / or painted

In order to protect the device from corrosion, it is applied a special soil composition. Soil composition for greater reliability is applied in several layers. Sometimes instead of soil, the support can be painted by special ground enamel. And for that, to achieve maximum reliability, usually, the device is equipped with a powder or zinc coating (galvanized).

Most often such products are made of strong carbon steel, however, if the pipeline is intended for installation and operation in severe temperature conditions, devices are used, made of low-alloy steel.

All sliding supports are classified into several main types by type of construction:

  • product on brackets (fasteners);
  • Khomutova;
  • ball;
  • dielectric;
  • skating rink (roller).

The roller support is used in that case, when it is necessary to reduce the friction force between its base and the upper part. Friction occurs when the pipeline moves. The reduction of friction force is due to the structural elements of such support - skating rinks.

Dielectric sliding models are used mainly for pipes, made of such materials:

  • carbon steel;
  • low carbon steel.

Roller supports are widely used in the construction of highways for pulling pipes in the horizontal direction

Insulation in such supports is made of a special material - sheet paranite. Paranit includes the following components:

  • rubber;
  • asbestos;
  • additional powder additives.

Ball sliding models are made of steel and are a specific fastener. The use of such products allows communication to move as longitudinally, and in the transverse direction. Due to this, ball sliding supports are used in power plants or when laying heating mains.

Installation of sliding supports

It should be noted, that when drafting a communication project, in which sliding supports will be used, it is recommended to determine the distance between such supports in advance. This calculation is carried out for each case separately. It has to do with that, that the following characteristics are required for the calculation, as: purpose of communication, length, indicators of section of pipes, material of manufacture, etc.. d.

First of all to calculate the distance between the sliding supports, you need to know for what purposes communication will be used. Because for pipelines, which carry out transportation of hot water, this distance will be less, than for cold water supply.

Importantly! It is worth noting, that the installation of these products is carried out before dragging the pipe into the protective cover (case).

Usually, between the sliding-type support device and the metal casing lay a waterproofing material. exept this, the inner surface of the pipe and waterproofing material is lubricated with a special graphite oil. This is necessary, to avoid unwanted friction.

Further, fastening of clamps with use of the welding equipment is carried out. After welding, the clamps are securely tightened. Installation of such supports is performed without the use of special equipment, which is very convenient and speeds up the workflow.

exept this, at installation of sliding support it is necessary to adhere strictly to all norms and rules, prescribed in the relevant documentation, and comply with all safety requirements.