An Overview of Spring Supports in Piping Systems

The purpose of pipes in any industry, be it oil and gas, chemical, or water treatment, is to facilitate the efficient transfer of fluids. However, the performance of a pipe network is not solely dependent on the pipe material or the fluid running through it. Other factors come into play, and one such crucial factor is the use of adequate support systems. Among the several types of supports used in piping systems, spring supports hold a unique place due to their flexible yet robust nature. They are extensively used to provide the necessary support to the pipes while also allowing for necessary movements due to temperature-induced expansion and contraction.

What are Spring Supports?

Spring supports, or spring hangers, are specialized supports designed to balance and support the weight of the pipe, including its content and insulation. They do so while permitting vertical movement as the system heats and cools. This adjustability is primarily due to the spring coil integrated into the support structure, which can absorb and manage the stresses produced by thermal expansion and contraction, thereby protecting the piping system from potential damage.

Types of Spring Supports

There are generally two types of spring supports: variable spring supports and constant spring supports.

1. Variable Spring Supports: These supports are designed to provide support for vertical movement due to thermal expansion in piping systems. They do so with varying resistance as the load changes, meaning that they provide less resistance in the cold position (when the system is off) and more when the system is hot, and the pipe is expanded.
2. Constant Spring Supports: These supports are designed to provide consistent support regardless of the thermal condition or vertical movement of the pipe. As the name suggests, they exert a constant force on the pipe throughout its range of movement, hence are used in situations where it is necessary to maintain a steady load throughout the process.

Spring Supports Components and Design

The core components of spring supports include a spring coil, load-carrying members, a supporting base, and travel stops. The spring coil absorbs the mechanical stress due to thermal expansion and contraction. The load-carrying members distribute the load, the supporting base provides stability, and the travel stops limit the range of motion.

The design of spring supports varies widely based on the application and requirements of the piping system. Some key factors taken into account during the design process include pipe diameter, the weight of the pipe (including contents and insulation), movement direction and amount, operating temperature, and external environmental conditions.

Benefits of Using Spring Supports

Spring supports are essential for effective load management and support in piping systems. Their benefits include:

• Protection against Damage: By absorbing the mechanical stress caused by thermal expansion and contraction, spring supports protect the piping system from potential damage, thus prolonging the lifespan of the system.
• Flexibility: Spring supports offer flexibility, allowing for vertical movement of pipes as the system heats and cools.
• Load Management: They provide effective load management by distributing the load evenly throughout the system.
• Cost-Effective: They reduce maintenance costs by minimizing potential damage to the piping system, thereby increasing efficiency.

spring supports play a critical role in piping systems across various industries. They not only provide the necessary support and load management but also offer the flexibility to accommodate thermal changes, protecting the system from potential damage and increasing overall efficiency.

If you're interested in learning more about spring supports or any other related products, our sales team would be more than happy to assist you. Please reach out to us at [email protected] with any questions or requirements you may have. We look forward to helping you find the best solutions for your piping system needs.