Using the proper supports and shoulders for any piping system is crucial to its performance. In addition to using the correct pipe supports, it is also essential to space them correctly. PVC pipes perform differently than other pipe materials, so how do you support them?
Supporting PVC pipes: What to consider
If you want to support the PVC pipes, the pipes can be hung above the ground or outdoors. Several factors are critical when considering how to support these pipes, especially when looking at how well PVC can withstand low and high temperatures.
You can use roller hangers or bent hangers to support the pipe material. But note that it exists different types of roller hangersand which ones you use will depend on the style and installation of the pipe.
There are also options for pipe clamps, U-bolts, hangers, roller supports, roller seats and anchor straps. These are just a few of the supports available for PVC pipe, but you can check out other options to see what fits your construction and material.
It is important to note that the support you use can affect how the pipe performs in the long run. PVC tends to break easily and does not last as long as other pipe materials. So the screws and fittings on the hangers and brackets can corrode the pipe and damage it prematurely. Keep this in mind when selecting the type of support and consider the location of the pipes.
1. Selecting the right support for PVC pipes
Different supports and hangers for metal pipe materials also work for PVC and other thermoplastic materials. However, the support must have an adequate surface area for load-bearing purposes. In other words, the bearing surface must be free of sharp edges or rough areas that can damage the pipe.
The wrong supports for a PVC pipe can cause it to sag quickly. Also, temperature fluctuations can cause thermal expansion and contraction, which in turn can cause the pipe to move. Pressure changes also cause the pipe to move, possibly affecting the support or support.
2. Pipe support spacing
In addition to choosing the right pipe hanger, you also need to consider spacing. Incorrect spacing of the support on the pipe can affect its functionality in the long term. As a thermoplastic, a PVC pipe must have the correct distance between supports corresponding to the size, location and weight of the fluids they regularly transport.
Operating temperatures are also vital to the operation of the pipe within the support. The reason is that the tensile and comprehensive strength of PVC material changes with temperatures. So how you support your PVC pipes depends on the temperature fluctuations in the area. The higher the temperatures, the more pipe support you will need. We will talk more about this later.
You can calculate the correct distance between supports for PVC pipes in the same way that you check the distance between supports for metal systems. Use continuous and simple beam calculations; check and use the maximum fiber stress of the material at the selected temperature.
In addition, the distance frequency depends on the diameter of the pipes. Building and plumbing codes state that horizontal PVC pipes require support every three feet. But this rule applies to PVC pipes with diameters from half an inch to one inch. The distance frequency becomes four feet if the pipe diameter is greater than one inch.
3. Placement of pipe support
It is a common practice to place pipe supports on a two-foot radius of each part of the pipe joint. If there is a change in pipe direction, supports should be placed close to the fitting so as to reduce possible tension stresses.
This pipe support does not necessarily carry other fittings such as tees, flange assemblies or flanges and valves. Each component must have individual supports to avoid overloading the pipe support.
In the case of valves, there should be adequate bracing so that there are little or no loads due to operating torque. Then, the placement of the support should take into account the possibility of solids accumulating inside the pipe, so that you make a correct placement.
4. Temperature fluctuations
When choosing the support or hanger for a PVC pipe, you need to consider the location and temperature. In other words, the temperature of an area significantly affects the performance of PVC, as temperature fluctuations can cause the pipe to expand and contract.
The PVC support must take this event into account to avoid over-tightening the pipe and damaging it. This is especially true if you use hangers to support the pipe. Note that plastic expands significantly more than steel or other metals. So the support should not restrict movement.
As mentioned, the distance between the supports must take into account the maximum operating temperature. Therefore, supports must come in uniform centers and be made so as not to restrict axial movements.
To give a clearer picture of the distance between the hanger based on temperatures, you need to look at Schedule PVC 40 and Schedule 80. PVC usually does not work above a temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Any temperature higher than this can damage the pipe material.
You must also match the nominal pipe size to the operating temperature at all times to achieve the recommended support spacing. For example, if you have PVC with a nominal pipe size of 1 inch laid horizontally and an operating temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit, the distance between the supports should be four and a half feet.
However, the support spacing decreases with the same type of PVC or nominal pipe size but with a different operating temperature. The higher the temperature, the less distance is needed. The same applies to Schedule 80 PVC pipe.
Installation of a PVC pipe support
To install the support for a PVC pipe, you must follow specific steps to place the pipe accurately. Improper installation of the pipe can greatly affect the way the bracket works and damage the pipe in the long run.
So here are the summarized steps to install a PVC pipe and fix the bracket:
1. Make sure you have the right length of pipe for the specific purpose
Cutting the pipe is simple, but you must have a straight edge at the end of the pipe to ensure a good fit. It is best to follow the detailed specifications to get the correct angles on the joints. Otherwise, you can tilt the joint and damage the project.
2. Check the length against the installation space before smoothing or deburring the edges
It is better to have a length that extends beyond necessary measurement rather than having a shorter pipe. You can always re-cut the pipe to get it to the right length, but you can’t fix a pipe that’s too short for the job.
3. Deburr and clean the chips from the edges
Once you are sure the length is correct, deburr and clean the chips from the edges. This step helps smooth the inside of the pipe. Then prime these edges using a primer for a clean feel and look. Next, clean the primed area with a detergent and cement it.
4. Take the bracket or pipe support and prepare for installation
Now take his stand pipe support and prepare for installation. This is the last step, but it is one of the most important. The reason is that the PVC backing can make or break the performance of the pipe. Use the right support for vertical or horizontal installations, check the maximum operating temperature and create a suitable distance between the support.
Use of anchors and guides
Anchors and guides are useful when supporting a PVC pipe system. Anchors work by directing the movements of pipes in the system. This restricts movements in certain locations. Consequently, anchors can control movements resulting from contraction or expansion, vibration and surge forces.
Guides work by directing movements between anchor points. Thus, they prevent lateral or transverse movements, but allow axial movements. However, an engineer is in the best position to build anchors and guides to achieve the goal without overloading the system and damaging it.
Steps to Protect PVC Pipes
A few precautionary steps help protect PVC pipe when installing brackets. Sometimes the supports can be too rough or abrasive for the pipe material. Therefore, placing pads and sleeves between supports or hangers and pipes may be necessary for protection.
Pads and sleeves will also help spread the stress loads over a wider area to reduce the load on specific areas. This precautionary step will make the pipe last longer than usual.
Additionally, consider using adequate shielding for the piping system if high temperatures are present to prevent damage. Constant high operating temperatures can deform plastic and other fittings. If possible, prevent the pipe from coming into contact with liquids or equipment capable of producing high temperatures.
Take away
The support of the PVC pipes is a technical step that only engineers and trained personnel must ensure. There are several aspects, and the support material is only one of them. You must consider operating temperature, installation, support spacing, placement and weight distribution.
Some local and state codes regulate this installation to ensure safety and performance. Therefore, checking and following local code is crucial. Contact the relevant authorities to determine what applies in specific locations and follow the instructions.
