What are the different pipe supports?

Jul. 29, 2024

A Glossary of Pipe Support Manufacturing Terms

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Many terms in the pipe support industry tend to get used interchangeably, so we're here to set the record straight!

A Glossary of Pipe Support Manufacturing Terms

Adjustable:
Having adjustment capability (usually with threads).

Anchor:
A pipe support used to restrict the pipe movement at a particular location.

Beam Clamp:
A type of forged or fabricated clamp that is used to attach rod hangers to beams by clamping onto the load flange.

Base:
The bottom component of a pipe support to uphold the piping system.

Base Supports:
The supports are used on sections of pipe as a support stand. They can be Trunnions, Stanchions, or a pipe branch that is added to a straight pipe, elbow or transition. They are best used when little to no movement is foreseen.

Bracket:
Cantilevered member, with or without a knee brace, designed to withstand a gravity load as well as horizontal forces.

Bolted:
The piping support assembly clamped together using bolts

Clevis Hanger:
A Pipe Attachment providing vertical adjustment, consisting of a clevis type top bolted to a formed steel bottom strap.

Composite:
Typically a compound plastic/polymer material (see FRP), composites are a cost-effective way to protect uninsulated piping systems from many of the common issues piping systems face like metal to metal contact, friction damage, and galvanic corrosion.

Cope:
A relief cut to a component so that it can fit snug against another component or existing structure/pipe.

Cryogenic:
A state of materials at very low temperatures (below -150ºC)

Cryogenic Pipe Support:
(Also known as cold shoe) A type of assembly used to give necessary support to a piping system while not dissipating cryogenic temperatures of the piping system at a certain point.

Component:
Any of a range of devices which are used to make up a Pipe Support Assembly.

Constant Support Hanger:
A mechanical and spring coil device which produces a relatively constant supporting effect, while permitting vertical pipe movement.

Dummy Leg:
A dummy leg is a piece of pipe that acts as a support branch between your pipe and a nearby support point.

Epoxy:
A two-part chemical compound that when applied, bonds most substrates and is in most cases resistant to chemicals, shocks and extreme temperatures.

Eye Rod:
A Hanger Rod having an end formed in a circular or pear shape, permitting attachment to other components by means of a bolt or pin. The eye may be forged, welded or non-welded.

Eye Socket:
A device which provides for the attachment of a threaded Hanger Rod to the bolt of another component.

Fabrication:
A process in which material is cut to certain size and molded into different required shapes.

Flat Bar:
A flat, rectangular section of metal with square edges that comes in a range of sizes.

Flat Plate:
Composite plates used to protect flat surfaces from friction, corrosion, and wear. (Not to be confused with Flat Bar)

Forged Clevis:
A device which provides for the attachment of a threaded Hanger rod to a bolted or pinned connection.

FRP:
Fiber-Reinforced Polymer (also, Fiber-Reinforced Plastic), is a composite material made of a plastic resin or polymer matrix reinforced with fibers. The fibers are usually glass, carbon, or aramid, although other fibers such as paper or wood or asbestos have been sometimes used.

Guide:
A device used to permit pipe movement in a predetermined direction while restraining movement in other directions.

Hanger:
A type of pipe support consisting of a clamp in which the piping system is upheld from an upper portion rather than from the base. This type of pipe support is available with or without insulation.

Hanger Rod:
Round steel bar normally threaded used to connect other components, to make up a Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Heavy Bracket:
A Bracket used for the support of heavy loads.

Hold Down Straps:
Somewhat of a Clamp/U-Bolt hybrid, these restraints are the perfect medium restraint solution. They are designed to protect the coating of uninsulated carbon steel pipes (when lined) while keeping the pipe securely in place.

Hot Dip Galvanizing:
A process of protecting metallic surfaces from corrosion or rust by dipping the materials for a certain period in boiling chemicals.

Hot Shoe:
A type of assembly used to give necessary support to a piping system while not dissipating elevated temperatures of the piping system at a certain point.

Line Stop:
Pipe Guides that restrict movement in two directions, protecting pipes from bending and buckling.

Load Scale:
A scale attached to a Variable Spring Hanger to provide a means of indicating the supported load.

Load Variation:
A term associated with Variable Spring Hangers used to describe the difference in supporting effect between the hot and cold elevations of the support point.

Mark Number:
A unique number used to identify pipe hangers.

Offset:
A relative displacement between the Structural Attachment and Pipe Attachment, which may be incorporated into the design of the Pipe Hanger Assembly to accommodate the piping movement.

Pipe Attachment:
Any device used to connect the pipe to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Pipe Clamp:
A bolted Pipe Attachment which clamps around the pipe to connect the pipe to the remainder of a Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Pipe Clip:
A Pipe Attachment used to hold the pipe directly to a structure, also referred to as a strap or pipe strap.

Pipe Hanger:
A device which is suspended from a structure and is used to carry the piping load in tension.

Pipe Hanger Assembly:
A general term used to describe a series of assembled components which make up a Pipe Hanger, Pipe Support, Restraint, Anchor, Guide, etc.

Pipe Support:
An assembly used to uphold a piping system at desired location.

Pipe Roller:
A roller device used to support horizontal piping and provide for axial movement.

Pipe Saddle Supports:
A Stanchion utilizing a curved section for cradling the pipe.

Pipe Shield:
Pipe shields are most often used for protection of foam, fiberglass or high density insulation when used with pipe hangers and minimize the threat of jacket penetration at clevis hanger spots on insulated pipe.

Pipe Shoe:
A device by which piping is carried from beneath and is used to carry the piping weight in compression; these can be fabricated from metal, and composites.

Repad:
A Repad (Reinforcing Pad) is used to reinforce or strengthen a high-stress point on your pipe. The product itself looks like a doughnut or a big washer. (not to be confused with a "saddle", "pipe shield" or metallic wear pad)

Restraint:
A device that restricts movement, typically that of a pipe.

Rigid Hanger:
A Pipe Hanger which does not permit vertical movement.

Rigid Support:
A Pipe Support which does not permit vertical movement.

Riser:
Any vertical portion of a piping system.

Riser Clamp:
A Pipe Clamp for the support of vertical piping having separate Load Bolts, to transfer the piping load to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Saddle:
A pipe saddle is any pipe support that cradles a pipe and transfers the pipe's load weight onto a supporting base. Much like a saddle on a horse supports a rider and keeps them from bouncing on the animal, pipe saddles support a pipe's weight.

Slide Plates:
Bearing surfaces engineered to reduce the friction and wear of various structural components at expansion and contraction joints. They can be used in multiple applications such as in the support of heavy piping, equipment, bridges, and other structural members.

Stanchion:
A pipe support that is designed to stop movement in any direction and eliminate rotation in the system.

Thermoplastic Rods: (typically referred to by a particular brand name, or as "half rounds")
These Acetal rods effectively prevent pipe corrosion by inhibiting a corrosion cell from forming, thus prolonging the life of your piping system.

Threaded Rod:
A rod threaded its full length.

Three Bolt Pipe Clamp:
A Pipe Clamp normally used for horizontal insulated piping, which utilizes clamping bolts to attach the clamp to the pipe and a separate Load Bolt to transfer the piping weight to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly from a point outside the insulation.

Trunnion:
A pipe support that reinforces vertical pipe sections and stabilizes piping systems by providing support from two opposing sides.

Turnbuckle:
A device with one left-hand female threaded end and one right-hand female threaded end, used to join two threaded rods and provide linear adjustment.

U-Bolt:
A U-shaped rod with threaded ends, that fits around a pipe as well as being attached to a supporting member.

Variability:
The Load Variation of a Variable Spring Hanger divided by the Hot Load expressed as a percentage.

Variable Spring Hanger:
A spring coil device which produces a varying supporting effect while permitting vertical pipe movement.

Wear Pad (composite):
Composite Wear Pads are designed to stop metal-to-metal piping damage by isolating pipes. APP's proprietary ProTek Wear Pads are industry-leading FRP composite wear pads and are easy to install, can withstand temperatures from -320°F to +400°F, and are used in a wide variety of industries to keep pipes from scraping against I-beams or concrete supports.

Welded Beam Attachment:
A u-shaped flat bar device, normally welded to a steel beam used to connect the remainder of a Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Welded Pipe Attachment:
A Pipe Attachment which requires welding to the pipe in order to connect the pipe to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Weldless Eye Nut:
A forged steel device which provides for the attachment of a threaded Hanger Rod to a bolt or pin connection.

Types of Pipe Hangers and Supports: Choose the Right One

Utilizing the right pipe hanger is essential for ensuring the stability and integrity of piping systems. Pipe hangers provide support and help prevent damage, and several important elements need to be considered when selecting the most suitable option. The factors that impact pipe system performance include the environment in which it is installed and the particular requirements of the system.

This article will outline the key considerations to keep in mind when choosing a pipe hanger for your project.

What is a Pipe Hanger?

Pipe hangers are hardware used in construction and plumbing to steady and support pipes. They help align, reduce vibration, and prevent sagging by suspending pipes from walls or ceilings. Pipe hangers are versatile and can support different pipe materials, including PVC, copper, and steel. They come in different designs and sizes to fit various pipe sizes, applications, and load capacities.

1. Clevis Hangers

A Clevis hanger is used to support horizontal pipe runs in a variety of different applications. It&#;s designed to enable the efficient suspension of piping in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, among other utilities.

The Clevis hanger is comprised of a clevis and a U-bolt. The clevis wraps around the pipe, while the U-bolt fits over it. The two parts are secured with nuts for hanging the pipe at an adjustable height and angle, which is one of the benefits of using a clevis hanger.

2. Riser Clamps

Riser clamps are specifically designed to support vertical piping. They clamp onto the pipe and allow the pipe&#;s weight to be carried across a larger area. They are often used in building and industrial applications where vertical pipes need to be secured and supported, especially when running through multiple floor and ceiling levels.

A riser clamp works by transferring the load of the pipe to the building structure. It encircles the pipe and is tightened to hold the pipe securely. The lower part of the clamp, which is flat, rests on the upper surface of the structural member (like a floor or a beam). The upper part of the clamp grips the pipe to prevent it from moving downward.

3. Sliding Saddles

A Sliding saddle is a type of pipe support designed to manage both the weight of the pipe, and any movement from thermal expansion and contraction. It consists of two main parts: the saddle and a base that it can slide on. The saddle is shaped to fit the contour of the pipe, and distribute its weight over a larger area to reduce the pressure on any single point.

The sliding base underneath the saddle is typically constructed of two plates of material, often metal, with low friction between them. One plate is fixed, and the other is connected to the saddle, and can slide on the fixed plate.

4. J-Hangers

J-Hangers are ideal for light loads and can be easily attached to structural members with a rod or fastener. The J-shaped design provides superior support for piping systems. J-hangers are often used for light-duty applications, particularly with smaller diameter pipes such as those used in residential or light commercial plumbing.

One end of the J-hanger is typically attached to a structure such as a wall or ceiling using screws or other fasteners, while the curved portion of the J provides support for the pipe. The design allows the pipe to be easily inserted and removed from the hanger, which makes it a flexible choice for installations where adjustments may be needed.

5. Band Hangers

Band hangers are brackets that support insulated or non-insulated pipes from overhead and allow for vertical adjustment. They are frequently utilized in fire safety sprinkler systems to suspend and join piping. Band hangers are used in commercial buildings and large multi-family complexes due to their lightweight design and lower costs.

6. Spring Hangers

Spring hangers are used for supporting piping systems that undergo significant vertical movement due to thermal expansion contraction, vibrations, or other dynamic forces.

Spring hangers consist of a spring mechanism that allows the pipe to move while still providing support. The spring mechanism can either be variable spring hangers or constant spring hangers, depending on the application:

Variable Spring Hangers

Variable spring hangers work on the principle that the support load remains relatively constant while the pipe moves. As the pipe moves due to thermal expansion or contraction, the spring compresses or expands to accommodate the movement to maintain the support.

Constant Spring Hangers

Constant spring hangers maintain a nearly constant supporting force over the entire travel range of the support. This is usually accomplished by a mechanical system within the support that compensates for the changing spring force as the hanger moves.

Constant spring hangers are typically used in situations where a variation in the force supporting the pipe could cause problems, such as damage to the pipe or connected equipment.

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7. Split Ring Hangers

Split ring hangers are a type of pipe hanger used to suspend or mount pipes, especially in scenarios where the pipe cannot be turned or moved significantly.

They are commonly used in both light industrial and commercial applications. As their name suggests, split ring hangers are designed as a ring that is split into two parts.

This allows them to be installed or removed without having to lift or move the pipe, which makes them a convenient choice for certain installations. The hanger encircles the pipe to provide support over a large surface area, which can help to distribute the weight of the pipe and reduce stress points.

Typically, one end of the hanger is bolted or screwed into a wall, ceiling, or other structural member, while the other end can be adjusted to securely grip the pipe.

8. Roller Hangers

Roller hangers and supports are a specialized type of pipe support used to accommodate the movement of the pipes due to thermal expansion, contraction, and other dynamics. They consist of a hanger attached to a structure like a ceiling or wall, and a roller that the pipe rests on.

The roller allows the pipe to move back and forth with less friction than if it was resting directly on a stationary hanger. This can help reduce stress on the pipe, particularly in high-temperature applications where thermal expansion and contraction can be significant.

Choosing the Right Pipe Hanger

Selecting the right type of pipe hanger involves considering the specific needs of your piping system, including load, movement, and temperature conditions. Buckaroos, Inc. offers a comprehensive range of high-quality pipe hangers to meet diverse system requirements, for effective, long-lasting pipe support.

Here are some key considerations:

Pipe Material

Some materials may require specific types of support or may not be compatible with certain types of hangers. For example, copper piping may need specific types of hangers to prevent galvanic corrosion when in contact with different metals.

Pipe Size and Weight

The diameter and weight of the pipe, including the weight of the contents it carries, are key factors. Larger, heavier pipes require stronger, more robust hangers.

Thermal Expansion and Contraction

If the pipe carries fluids at high temperatures, it may expand and contract significantly. In such cases, adjustable or flexible hangers like spring hangers or roller hangers, which can accommodate this movement, might be needed.

Vibration

In some applications, such as machinery or equipment that generates vibrations, specialized hangers designed to dampen or resist vibration may be necessary.

Corrosion Resistance

In environments where corrosion is a concern, such as in chemical plants or outdoor installations, hangers made from corrosion-resistant materials or with protective coatings may be necessary.

Load Distribution

Ensuring that the weight of the pipe is evenly distributed can help prevent damage to the pipe. Certain hanger designs, like band hangers, are particularly good at evenly distributing the load.

Pipe Support Products from Buckaroos

Buckaroos® Sliding Saddles are special saddles designed for use in dynamic piping systems. They provide controlled linear movement at hanger locations. Sliding Saddles can be used instead of roller hangers, which can be expensive and prone to rust. A combination of Sliding Saddles, Clevis hangers, and rigid insulation is cost-effective and more efficient. You can easily identify each Sliding Saddle by its Sliding Saddle sticker label.

The CleviShield&#; from Buckaroos offers protection to the vapor barrier that encapsulates the pipe and a durable means of supporting overhead piping, ranging in size from 2&#; O.D. to 12&#; O.D. The product is composed of a galvanized shield that rests in a centered position inside a galvanized clevis hanger. The two components are welded together at point of contact. Depending on the application, the CleviShield&#; is available in galvanized carbon steel or stainless steel.

The High Density Fiberglass Blocks come in different sizes and are used to provide support for insulated pipes that pass through load-bearing clevis hanger support locations. They help maintain uniform insulation thickness and prevent any damage that could occur from compression.

The Buckaroos® Support is a wooden dowel precision-cut and attached to a PVC disc. The supports are designed to provide extra strength to pipe insulation where it passes through load-bearing clevis hanger supports on insulated pipe systems. By adding rigidity, the insulation is better protected from being compressed excessively or getting damaged, which helps maintain its consistency and thickness.

Buckaroos Clean Saddles&#; are used to support medium and light compressive strength pipe insulations in Clevis hanger piping systems. The saddles work with various pipe insulation materials such as rubber tubing, phenolic foam, polyisocyanurate, cellular glass, and fiberglass. They are particularly useful for ammonia refrigeration, chilled water, refrigeration, plumbing, and heating piping systems.

Get the Best Pipe Support Solutions with Buckaroos

Ready to explore our comprehensive range of pipe hangers and find the perfect solution for your project? Visit Buckaroos Inc. today! We have a team of experts who can help you choose from our wide selection of piping systems to optimize your system&#;s performance. Don&#;t settle for less &#; choose Buckaroos for unparalleled quality and reliability.

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