Maximum Support Spacing

[novice123]

1)Does Process piping code provide any guidelines regarding maximum support spacing for variation in dia of pipe and also with variation of fluids flowing through pipe (e.g what will be the maximum support spacing for 6" , MS water line )?

2) Also does code provide any guidelines for maximum run of pipe where bends could be included?

[ashfaqanwer]

1) If you are referring to the process piping code ASME B31.3, you would not be finding any thing regarding piping supports span but yes in power piping code ASME B31.1, a table 121.5 suggests maximum pipe support spacing (Table 121.5, Suggested Pipe Supports Spacing) for water, steam, gas or air service. What I have experienced is that there are tables available in guidebooks which provide you with standard maximum support spacing. Piping design manuals also specifies the same.

2) Are you asking this with reference to the expansion joint?

[novice123]

thanks.

For Stress Analysis , if we found that our system is rigid and we need to add flexibility , then how can we decide where (which point in model)to exactly add flexibility(loop) , and how much long loop (optimize) is to be provided ?

Regards

[ashfaqanwer]

It actually depends upon certain factors like material of construction, service type, conditions (temperature), pipe size etc. Normally for carbon steel pipes in hot service conditions, the maximum run of piping without any expansion joint, loop or bend must not be exceeding 8-9 meters for pipe sizes between 1.5" NPS to 4" NPS and for pipe sizes above 4" NPS the maximum run should be less than 5 meters.
Additionally, expansion joints must also be spaced at a minimum distance of 24-30 meters. Use bends, loops to add flexibility.

Hope this helps.

[arcpro]

A useful file regarding pipe span chart has been attached.
Open it as read only. It's indeed a helpful excel sheet.

[novice123]

Excellent chart thanks.

[novice123]

Is there charts available for the support spacing based on specific process fluids ( apart from water , steam , air , gas )....?

Regards

[arcpro]

Use the same tables and extrapolate the values just by using your engineering sense based on specific gravity of the process fluid.