Pipe Supports: Types & Installations
Overview
Pipe supports are vital components in any industrial piping system, playing a critical role in managing mechanical loads, thermal movement, and long-term system integrity. Whether in power plants, refineries, or commercial infrastructure, pipe supports help prevent sagging, joint stress, and vibration-related damage.
At STS Industrial, we supply a comprehensive range of pipe supports, hangers, and structural attachments to meet the needs of new construction, retrofits, and ongoing maintenance programs.
In this guide, we’ll break down the roles of pipe supports, key support types, material compatibility, and what to consider when designing or specifying them.
What Are Pipe Supports?
Pipe supports can be divided into two functional categories:
Supports – Carry the weight of the piping and contents (vertical load).
Restraints – Control or limit movement due to temperature changes, pressure, or external forces like wind or seismic activity.
Both are necessary for proper system performance and code compliance with ASME B31.1/B31.3, MSS SP-58, and other standards.
Types of Pipe Supports
STS Industrial offers a wide variety of pipe support components designed to meet a range of industrial needs. Below is a breakdown of common pipe support types and their typical applications:
| Component | Function/Application |
|---|---|
| Pipe Clamps | Provide secure, load-bearing support by clamping around the pipe. Used for anchoring pipes to structural steel in vertical or horizontal configurations. |
| Clevis Hangers | Two-piece supports that suspend piping from overhead structures. Allow limited vertical movement and accommodate minor thermal expansion. |
| Pipe Rings | Lightweight, adjustable ring supports for suspended lines. |
| Beam Clamps | Attach to structural steel or I-beams without drilling or welding. Provide a mounting point for hangers or threaded rods in overhead systems. |
| C-Clamps | Used to fasten pipe supports to structural elements. Provide a clamping point for rods or hangers without structural modifications. |
| U-Bolts | Provide support and lateral restraint by clamping the pipe to a structure. Prevent lateral movement and guide alignment. |
| Standon Pipe Supports | Provide vertical support for piping on elevated pipe racks, structural supports, or equipment platforms. |
Pipe Support Installations
Products Shown:
