Different Types of Pipe Support Clamps - YENA Engineering

Support clamps and hangers can help keep your pipes in place so that they don’t shift around or break. They can also help you hang various items from the pipes, such as ceiling fans, light fixtures, and other household appliances.

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When working on a structure, it’s essential to have the right pipe supports available. These pipe supports help keep your pipe firmly in place while you work. If you’re working on a job that requires precision, it’s best to have support as well as stability.

The right pipe support will ease that pressure and make sure that the pipe doesn’t shift its position while you work on it. That way, once you’re done with your work and ready to move on, everything will be in the same place again. With so many types of pipe supports available at different prices, figuring out what type of support is ideal for your needs can be tricky. You don’t want to waste money or time with something that won’t get the job done. Here are some buying tips to help you find the right pipe support for your project

Pipe Support Types to Consider

When you’re buying pipe supports, it’s helpful to know what types of support are available to you. The following are the most common types of pipe supports:

1. Pipe Saddle Supports – Saddle pipe supports are typically made from aluminum and have an “S” shape. Saddle supports are designed for smooth round pipes such as gas pipes.
2. Pipe Stands – Pipe stands are used to support, vertically or horizontally, straight and pressurized pipe. Pipe stands are mostly made of aluminum and are often used along with pipe saddles to support different pipe lengths.
3. Pipe Hangers – Pipe hangers are used to suspend pipes from ceilings or walls. They can be made from galvanized steel, aluminum, stainless steel, or other materials.
4. Pipe Clamps – Pipe clamps are used to hold pipes in place while they’re under pressure. They’re typically made of stainless steel, zinc, or other high-temperature alloys.

Pipe Support Brackets

These are the most common type of pipe supports available. They’re typically made of aluminum and are designed to be fastened to a wooden, metal, or steel frame. Pipe brackets come in a variety of shapes and sizes, allowing you to get the most out of your investment. Some pipe support brackets can be mounted on the ceiling, and others can be used to support overhead pipes. Pipe brackets are also available that can accommodate both round and square pipes.

Pipe Support Hangers

Hangers are designed for use with pipe saddles and pipe stands. They’re made of strong steel and are mounted on a wall or ceiling. Hangers allow you to suspend pipes from ceilings or walls without using screws or drilling into the structure. Hangers are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. You can find hangers that are designed to fit round pipes, square pipes, and even rectangular tubing.

Pipe Saddle Supports

Saddle pipe supports are typically made of aluminum and have a saddle shape. They’re typically used to support pressurized or very long piping systems, such as natural gas pipes. Saddle pipe supports come in a variety of sizes and materials. They’re designed with a base that’s screwed to a concrete foundation. Since they’re made of aluminum, they’re relatively lightweight, which makes them easy to move around the job site.

Pipe Stands

These are the most common type of pipe supports available. Pipe stands are typically made of steel and designed to hold pipe vertically or horizontally. They come in a variety of sizes and materials, allowing you to find one that matches your pipes’ weight. Pipe stands are designed to withstand heavy loads. Aluminum pipe stands are the most popular, but you can also find pipe stands made from stainless steel, zinc, and other high-temperature alloys.

Pneumatic Clamps

These clamps attach to threaded pipes, such as those found in a water distribution system or a gas system. You can use pneumatic clamps to hold straps, hoses, or anything else that you attach to the pipes.

Pneumatic clamps are used mostly in commercial settings, but you can find them in plumbing supply stores. Pneumatic clamps work by inflating a plastic bladder whenever the pipe is compressed. This causes the clamp to open. You usually need to keep pumping air into the clamp until it stops, but it can operate continuously if you want.

The best part of pneumatic clamps is that they’re not very expensive. They’re not the most durable clamp, either. They’re often used to hold straps, but they don’t have a good grip on threaded pipes.

Elbow Clamps

These are the most common clamp for home plumbing. They have a 90-degree bend at one end of the clamp, allowing you to get a good seal on pipes. Elbow clamps also come in different sizes, so you can choose the one most appropriate for your application. In most cases, you can attach these clamps to PVC, CPVC, and ABS piping. Elbow clamps are probably the simplest pipe support to use.

They’re easy to operate, and you can attach just about anything to them. You can also use elbow clamps to hang things since they have a broad grip. Another reason people use them is that they’re inexpensive. The main drawback of elbow clamps is that they don’t hold pipes very securely. They can also be damaged easily if they fall off the pipes.

Vertical Pipe Support

Vertical pipe supports are used to hang objects from the ceiling. To use one of these, you’ll need to first attach a rope or chain from the ceiling to a pipe below the object you’d like to hang. Then, use a pipe hanger to hang the object from the pipe. This type of pipe support is especially useful for hanging light fixtures and other appliances.

There are many types of vertical pipe supports, including chain, wire, and rail systems. Chain systems are the most common, and they’re affixed to the ceiling with a clip. You can also buy chains that have a ratchet mechanism, so they automatically adjust to whatever height you set them at.

Wire and rail systems are similar, but they’re connected to a track on the ceiling. You can change the track’s position, allowing you to easily position the object that’s hanging from the support. These systems are usually more expensive than chain systems.

Slip-On Wraps

These wraps come in several different shapes and sizes, so you can find one that’s most appropriate for your situation. They typically come as a set of five wraps, and each one is designed for a specific purpose. Some common purposes are to connect two pipes, to create a liquid barrier, or to hold a pipe in place.

Slip-on wraps are often more expensive than other types of pipe supports. They’re also not very versatile, since they’re designed for a specific purpose. You can’t use them to hold pipes in place or to connect pipes. The best part about them is their versatility. They can be used for a variety of purposes, depending on the shape and size of the wrap.

Guard Hangers

Guard hangers are more secure than other types of pipe supports, such as slip-on wraps, chain systems, and rail systems. They’re often used in public locations, such as schools and airports. The best part about them is their security; they have an extra rubber band around the middle, keeping them from falling off the pipes.

Another reason people prefer guard hangers is that they have a wide grip range. You can place them just about anywhere along the pipe, from just below the surface to about 3/4 down. This means you can use a guard hanger on a fairly wide variety of pipes. The main drawback of guard hangers is that they’re the most expensive type of pipe support.

Tips for Buying the Best Pipe Support

There are many types of clamps and hangers available for use, and choosing the right one can be confusing. Here are a few helpful tips that can help you choose the best clamp or hanger for your needs:

1. Look for pipe supports that are made of durable material. Clamps that are too flimsy or cheap could break under pressure.
2. Remember that pipe supports are designed for specific purposes. If you’re not sure what you need, consult with a knowledgeable professional, such as a certified plumber. They can help you choose the best clamp or hanger for your situation.
3. Keep in mind that pipe supports come in different shapes and sizes. Depending on the situation, you might need to buy one that’s not very big or sturdy, but suitable for use.
4. Don’t forget that not all pipe supports are created equal. Make sure you buy pipe support that can withstand pressure and can hold the load you need it to.
5. Don’t forget about pipe guards. Pipe guards can help protect pipes from damage and can help you choose the best pipe support for your needs.
6. Always test-drive pipe support before using it. If the pipe support is too stiff or too weak, you don’t want to risk causing damage to your pipes.
7. Know the difference between pipe supports and pipe hangers. Hangers are designed to hold objects, while supports are designed to hold pipes.
8. Keep your pipes free and clear of debris. If pipes are blocked, they could be susceptible to damage.
9. Look for pipe supports with good reviews are more likely to hold up to pressure.
10. Remember that pipe supports are not a permanent solution. To keep your pipes secure, you need to keep them from falling or being damaged.

What is a Pipe spool?

A pipe spool also called a coil, is a length of steel pipe that’s been cut into several pieces and rolled onto itself. They’re typically used for small diameter pipe that needs to be transported over long distances, such as the piping used to deliver oil and natural gas. Like other pipe supports, spools are available in a variety of sizes and materials. They come in both single-wall and multi-wall styles.

Pipe hangers are designed to support horizontal piping systems above the ground. They’re typically made from steel, but you can also find them made from stainless steel, aluminum, or other non-ferrous metals. Pipe hangers come in a variety of shapes and sizes based on the type of piping they support.

Pipe spool fabrication is a common method used to produce pipe hangers. Pipe hangers are designed to support horizontal piping systems above the ground. They’re typically made from steel, but you can also find them made from stainless steel, aluminum, or other non-ferrous metals. Pipe hangers come in a variety of shapes and sizes based on the type of piping they support.

High-Quality Engineering & Procurement

YENA Engineering provides a range of piping system solutions including project management, manufacturing, and transportation from beginning to end with ASME and EN standards. We provide pipe spools made from carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel for energy, oil, gas and chemical industries.

Also, YENA Engineering has been providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service to our clients. Our goal is to achieve 100% customer satisfaction through our commitment to quality, on-time delivery, competitive pricing, and experienced staff.

Piping systems can be deceptive. When they’re running smoothly, it’s hard to see the wear, danger, and deterioration subtly creeping in. However, they’re up against powerful natural hazards.

Pipes carry corrosive materials and often face extreme external climates. Movement and vibrations are inherent, and as heavy metallic structures move, they wear down, corrode, and risk breaking open.

At the same time, changes in temperature stand as another foe to piping systems. Temperature changes can cause heat transfer, promote damaging friction, and create destructive ice formation.

WHAT COULD GO WRONG?

With pipes strained by so many forces, piping systems are up against the constant danger of ruptures and on-site disasters. The good news? Pipe supports can protect pipes from many of the most menacing issues. And as soon as you understand how to fight off the most common destructive forces, you can begin to protect them, too.

Galvanic Corrosion

Galvanic corrosion is an electrochemical process by which one metal causes another metal to corrode and break down. This type of corrosion requires three things: an anode (one metal), a cathode (a second metal), and an electrolyte (usually water, bacteria, or grime).

Simply put, metals have different physical properties. A more noble metal (the cathode) has a tendency to hold on to its electrons and pull electrons from other sources, whereas more basic metals (the anodes) are eager to give their electrons away. That means that when you connect these dissimilar metal types in an electron-heavy environment, the more basic metal will give its electrons to the more noble metal. When a metal gives up its electrons, galvanic corrosion begins, and the metal will rust.

Fitting Failure

Pipe restraints and fittings can help reinforce systems and stop destruction. However, it’s possible to put too much pressure on these tools, and that can cause more serious problems. Sloppy installation can easily lead to worn parts and broken fittings, which can set off a chain reaction that snaps or collapses other parts within your piping system.

It’s important to get past the common belief that stopping pipe movement altogether is always the best option. Instead, fittings should promote natural, axial movement and reduce friction whenever possible. At the same time, supports need to be able to hold up to vibrations, pressure, and pipe weight.

THE ROLE OF PIPING SOLUTIONS

Pipe supports are built to counter these forces, and quality piping solutions will lengthen the lifespan of your whole piping system.

First, supports should reduce corrosion. This usually means adding insulation that discourages metal-on-metal corrosion. Because galvanic corrosion occurs when two dissimilar metals interact, supports can stop this destruction by insulating pipes.

Pipe supports can also strengthen systems by physically reinforcing them. In some instances, they can add a protective barrier between the pipe’s surface and surrounding harsh surfaces. In this way, supports can prevent ruptures and tears.

At the same time, an efficient support will reduce friction and the wear that results. When a pipe rubs against surrounding surfaces, it becomes vulnerable to cracks, tears, and corrosion. With every small opening that forms, corrosive materials are able to seep in and cause damage. Pipe supports also help pipes move more fluently so they can avoid ruptures or fitting failures.

Wondering how pipe shoes fit into this equation? Pipe shoes should have the same broad goal as other pipe supports. However, they accomplish these goals in a unique way.

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For instance, your pipes may be made up of carbon steel. If the surrounding I-beams are made of a more noble metal, like stainless steel, then resting bare carbon pipes directly on beams is dangerous. In time, the electrons from your carbon pipes will pass into the more noble stainless-steel beam. This results in a carbon pipe that’s eaten away or weakened. In this case, pipe shoes lift carbon pipes off of the dissimilar metal of the beam and protect them.

Even if metals are compatible, shoes can prevent destruction. Pipes can move for any number of reasons. Vibrations can cause pipes to shift, heat changes can cause pipes to swell or contract, and sloshing liquids inside pipes can create movement. As pipes move, pipe shoes keep different materials from grinding against each other. In the same way, they minimize the movement and direct wear that comes with temperature changes.

This is especially apparent in systems that face extreme cold, like liquid natural gas (LNG) plants. In these cases, even if the connected metals get along, they encourage damaging ice formation. Because metals are conductive, the metal of the beam will encourage heat transfer in pipes. Heat naturally wants to flow between metals. This means metals that touch encourage thermal contraction, ice formation, moving pipes, and surface damage. Well-insulated pipe shoes will help stabilize pipe temperatures and keep heat from exiting or entering pipes.

Regardless of temperature and external conditions, bare pipes that rest on surrounding objects are subject to grinding, friction, and wear. Temperatures and corrosive environments amplify damage. In turn, pipe shoes keep pipes from grinding, tearing, and leaking.

Finally, and most importantly, pipe shoes can allow for a safer working environment because they make it possible to install insulation and personal protection cages on pipe that is too dangerous for workers to be exposed to or touch. By elevating the pipe, the line can be fully encapsulated—creating a safer working environment and reducing the risk of injury.

Overall, by lifting pipes off of other surfaces, pipe shoes help pipes maintain their integrity. They prevent metal-on-metal contact and reduce friction damage. Essentially, they can insulate pipes, give them structural support, and promote natural movement.

THE DISADVANTAGES OF PIPE SHOES

Although the advantages of pipe shoes outweigh the disadvantages, there are still some things to look out for. When looking at the potential disadvantages of pipe shoes, it’s good to remember that materials matter. Unprotected metal shoes have the potential for corrosion if they’re not paired with the right insulation.

At the same time, there are natural concerns to consider when pipe shoes are welded directly to supporting beams. Anytime welding occurs, there is potential for stress cracking, especially in chloride-heavy environments like sea air. This means it’s usually well worth making sure that all welds are heat treated and welded by professionals.

METALLIC SHOES

Traditional metallic pipe shoes have been common in the industry for decades. In the past, manufacturers have designed metallic pipe shoes using structural shapes from cost-effective materials. For instance, manufacturers might use I-beams or channel beams to form a shoe. Right away, it’s easy to see the benefits of using these simple materials to form a pipe shoe. They’re made of materials that are easy to access and a wide range of suppliers can make them. They also tend to be fairly low cost and aren’t overly complex to install or produce.

However, there are some disadvantages to these traditional shoes. First, using any type of unprotected metal for a shoe can be dangerous. Pairing up dissimilar metals can lead to corrosion underneath the welded shoe. They also aren’t ideal for systems that undergo heavy temperature changes because metal-on-metal pairing can encourage ice formation and wear

MORE ADVANCED METALLIC T-STYLE SHOES

Beyond these relatively simple traditional shoes, there are more advanced T-style metallic pipe shoe designs. Often referred to as T-slides, some of these metallic shoe options feature cradles and U-bolts, or two clamps to hold the pipe in place.

Beyond having a slightly more intentional design than that of traditional shoes, these metallic shoes have advantages of versatility. Many T-style pipe shoes can be paired with wear pads or other liners. This eliminates metal-on-metal contact, allows for better control of a shoe’s movement, and can provide greater protection to the piping system.

Other metallic shoes can be built from other channel material or plate to any custom dimensions. The major advantage of this is that you get exactly what you want. But as is the case with anything custom, you will have to pay for that flexibility, and the price can become prohibitive when compared to that of other options.

How to Install

Metallic shoes can be welded directly to the pipe in a pipe fabrication shop or in the field. When installing, it’s always a good idea to use professionals and welders who uphold industry standards such as MSS SP-58. Additionally, using U-bolts or clamps to install piping is no more complicated than using a wrench.

COMPOSITE PIPE SHOES

Composite pipe shoes offer a corrosion-resistant alternative to metallic shoes. Still, composite materials are often misunderstood. Because they don’t have the same rigid makeup of metal, it’s common for some to assume that composites are weak. However, they can actually be extremely durable. Here’s a look at some popular composite pipe shoes that are available today:

ProTek Composite Pipe Shoe

The ProTek composite pipe shoe is a UV-resistant, non-metallic pipe support that is built to withstand heavy pressure and especially hot and cold temperatures. It has 150,000 pounds of compressive strength, a temperature range of -320 to +400 degrees Fahrenheit, and is resistant to chemical attack. Because of its makeup, it has become a popular option for corrosion-heavy systems such as onshore and offshore refineries and plants.

They also offer an advantage in the way they fit against pipes. They fit against piping snugly, with their inner diameter crafted to fit the pipe’s outer diameter precisely. This essentially keeps corrosive elements from sneaking in between the pipe and the support. With a precise fit, the shoe seals off vapors and stops corrosive materials from settling on pipes.

How to Install

ProTek shoes don’t require specialized installation. They’re lightweight and don’t require welding. The installation process includes simply fixing the shoe to the pipe using steel bands and silicone.

CryoTek Composite Pipe Shoe

CryoTek composite pipe shoes have quickly become a popular item in cryogenic piping systems that involve gas liquefaction, LNG terminals, carriers, and ethylene plants.

They have the same corrosion protection and operating temperature advantages as ProTek shoes (-320 to +400 degrees Fahrenheit). However, CryoTek shoes are a sturdy option that can handle a bit more of an axial load than ProTek shoes can. In fact, they have a maximum compressive strength of 27,500 pounds per square inch. They include well-defined insulation that protects piping. Their design also makes them a sturdy option for a stop or anchor. Despite their robust design, these supports are also easy to transport.

Additionally, they offer an advantage in their ability to eliminate heat sync. Their insulation features banding slots inside the shoe, which stay inside the insulation and prevent any heat from entering or escaping.

Because both CryoTek and ProTek shoes are much lighter than their metallic counterparts, they offer an installation advantage over traditional metal shoes. Installation also doesn’t require welding or specialized labor.

How to Install

CryoTek shoes are installed using a powerful epoxy. They can be bonded using a static epoxy mixer, which takes the guesswork out of mixing two-part epoxy. From there, the bonded shoe is reinforced with steel metal bands.

PRE-INSULATED PIPE SHOES

Pre-insulated pipe shoes generally consist of hefty stainless steel bodies and an encapsulating insulation foam between the pipe and the stainless steel body to keep the line insulated.

The biggest advantage of pre-insulated shoes is that they come installed and ready to go.

However, with their size and makeup comes some disadvantages. On jobs that require transportation, they can be difficult to maneuver, and setting them in place requires specialized lifting equipment. They also generally come with a relatively hefty price tag.

How to Install

Pre-insulated pipe shoes need to be installed by professionals on-site or pre-fabricated and moved. They generally require heavy, specialized equipment, precise procedures, and professional welders.

COMPARING PIPE SHOE COSTS

When considering your budget, it’s a good idea to keep total costs in mind. Of course, that starts with the price of each unit. However, it also means deciding how many units you’ll need, the cost of installation, and the long-term costs that may result down the line. Here’s a general look at the costs of pipe shoes:

Metal T-Style Shoes

Metal T-style shoes can be some of the most cost-effective shoes out there. However, some low-end T-styles can run the risk of corrosion on their own. Countering that disadvantage leaves room for creativity. It’s a good idea to factor in corrosion protection options when weighing this shoe’s overall costs.

Metal Shoes with Clamps

The price of metal T-style shoes with clamps can vary, especially depending on which liners you decide to pair them with. However, as a whole, they tend to have a midrange cost, plus the ability to make upgrades by pairing them with things like wear pads or slide plates.

Composite Shoe Costs

At the composite end, ProTek shoes tend to be the more affordable option. In fact, they often come in under or close to the price of their metallic counterparts. CryoTek prices can vary, but they tend to be a good deal more expensive than their ProTek counterparts.

PIPE SUPPORT MOVEMENT

Pipe movement is a major consideration when it comes to pipe supports. Making sure your needs are met and that the pipe does what you want it to is critical to ensuring the optimal function of your piping system. Here are some supports that play important roles in pipe movement.

Resting Support

This is the simplest application for pipe supports and its objective is simply to support the load of the pipe and allow for the free movement of the piping system.

Guided Support

Guided supports are for when you want to restrict lateral and vertical pipe movement but also want to allow for free movement in the axial direction of the pipe.

Slide Plates

In both resting and guided supports, pipe shoes can be used in conjunction with slide plates fastened to the underside of the shoe’s base. These plates are generally sodium-etched PTFE that’s bonded to 10-gauge carbon or stainless steel. The PTFE is usually paired with a polished stainless steel plate that’s attached to the beam to allow for one of the lowest coefficients of friction possible. At the same time, it promotes more natural movement and less wear.

Anchor Support

These supports are used when you want to restrict most, if not all, pipe support movement. These can be fixed to a point—preventing movement in the axial, lateral, and vertical directions.

KEY FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING SHOES

Beyond costs, there are several other factors to weigh when making your final pipe shoe selection. First, always think about how well the shoe’s composition, design, and features will fit into your specific system.

For instance, if you’re operating an offshore rig that’s exposed to salt-heavy conditions, you may want to place more emphasis on corrosion-resistant materials. At the same time, if your system is fairly calm and protected from the elements, it may be smarter to focus on shoes with a lower upfront cost.

With those factors in mind, here are some helpful questions to ask in order to get more out of your pipe shoes:

• Do you have a high-stress system that includes heavy weight loads or high vibrations?
• How much physical space do you have to support your pipes?
• How quickly do you need supports?
• What’s your timeline?
• How many pipe shoes will you need in total? What line movements do you want to allow or prevent?
• How many people do you have working on your project, and do you have specialized labor?

As soon as you’ve picked out the right shoe, you can start to benefit from its unique advantages. For instance, metallic shoes with clamps can be enhanced by adding specialized liners or wear pads. These additions stop metal-on-metal contact and help both pipes and supports last longer.