Good design practices

i. Comply with the manufacturer standards and specifications

Ensuring the conformity, safety, and performance of the supports is a priority in their selection. The Quebec Construction Code specifies maximum spacings and other applicable requirements such as hanger dimensions ¹. Manufacturer specifications must also be respected to ensure performance and warranties. The strictest requirement must always prevail.

ii. Integrate thermal expansion from the design stage

Temperature variations mean thermal expansion or contraction of the piping ². Properly managing these changes in length, while limiting stress, helps prevent deformations, leaks and breakages.

iii. Use certified and appropriate supports

Support specifications vary depending on the manufacturer. Choosing a certified support that meets the project requirements ensures load-bearing capacity and compatibility with the type of piping and the fluid being transported.

iv. Ensure accessibility for maintenance

Many mechanical components require periodic inspections or maintenance. Ensuring accessibility facilitates inspections, adjustments, and replacements without disrupting the system operation.

v. Coordinate with the building structure

The structure forms the skeleton of the building and ensures its stability and safety. Properly positioning supports within the structure allows for secure anchoring and prevents transferring loads to elements not designed to support them.

Common mistakes to avoid

i. Undersized supports

All loads related to the piping must be taken up by the supports, including the weight of the pipe, the fluid being transported, and any installed equipment. Undersized supports lead to risks of failure, excessive vibration and premature wear. Beware that the pipe could even roll off its support and fall ³.

ii. Poor expansion management

Without alternating supports acting as fixed points and those serving as guides, the pipe does not have the necessary space to expand. Poor management can therefore cause uncontrolled movement, leaks, and deformation of the pipes.

iii. Material incompatibility

When dissimilar metals come into contact, galvanic corrosion occurs. Metals such as stainless steel, copper, and brass, should only be in contact with those of the same type. Material incompatibility causes premature degradation of components.

iv. Excessive spacing

Piping buckling, that is, a bend of the pipe between two supports, occurs when the maximum spacing is not respected. Inadequate distance between supports reduces stability and increases the load on each support.

Piping supports: best practices and mistakes to avoid

Good design practices

Common mistakes to avoid

References