Top 160+ Pipes Supports interview questions

Pipes Supports interview questions

Pipe support interview questions are designed to assess a candidate's knowledge and expertise in designing, selecting, and installing pipe support systems. They often touch on various aspects of pipe support engineering and construction. Here is a brief description of common interview questions related to pipe supports:

1.Can you explain the importance of pipe supports in piping systems?

This question tests the candidate's understanding of the role that pipe supports play in maintaining the integrity and safety of piping systems.

2.What factors should be considered when selecting pipe supports for a specific application?

Candidates are expected to discuss considerations like pipe material, size, temperature, pressure, and the support structure.

3.How do you calculate the spacing between pipe supports?

This question evaluates the candidate's ability to determine the appropriate spacing of supports to prevent sagging or excessive stress.

4.What types of pipe support hangers are commonly used, and how do they differ in their applications?

Candidates should describe different hanger types, such as clevis hangers, variable spring hangers, and constant support hangers, and explain when to use each.

5.Can you discuss the significance of thermal expansion and contraction in pipe support design?

This question assesses the candidate's understanding of how pipe supports must accommodate changes in pipe length due to temperature fluctuations.

6.How do you prevent or mitigate vibration and resonance issues in a piping system?

Candidates should explain the measures and types of supports used to dampen vibrations and prevent resonance.

7.What are the key differences between adjustable pipe supports and rigid pipe supports?

This question evaluates the candidate's knowledge of the characteristics and applications of adjustable and rigid pipe supports.

8.How do you address  corrosion concerns  when specifying pipe support materials?

Candidates are expected to discuss the selection of materials and coatings that resist corrosion in various environments.

9.What are the typical challenges in designing pipe support systems for high-temperature or high-pressure applications?

This question assesses the candidate's awareness of the unique challenges posed by extreme conditions and their solutions.

10.Can you describe your experience with designing and installing pipe support systems for a specific project or industry?

Candidates should provide examples of their practical experience, highlighting their ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios.

11. What are the criteria for pipe supporting?
Following are the points, which should be taken into account for proper supporting:-
A. Load of bare pipe + fluid + insulation (if any).
B. Load of bare pipe + water fill.
C. Load of valves and online equipment and instrument.
D. Thermal loads during operation.
E. Steam out condition, if applicable.
F. Wind loads for piping at higher elevation, if required.
G. Forced vibration due to pulsating flow.
H. Bare pipe with size above 12” shall be supported with pad or shoe.

12. What is the basic span of supports for 2”/6”/10”/24” pipe?
Basic span is 5.5m / 9m / 11.5m / 15m respectively.

13. What is the function of providing the anchor, cross guide and guide for piping?
Anchor is provided to restrict all the axial and rotational movements of pipe, whereas cross guide is provided to restrict displacements of pipe along with the axis perpendicular to its centerline and guide is provided to restrict the longitudinal movements of pipes along with its axis.
14. How is piping to tank inlet nozzle is supported and why?
Piping to tank nozzle is supported with spring type support (first support from nozzle) in order to make the nozzle safe from the loads which occurs due to the displacement of pipe (displacement may be due to thermal expansion of pipe, tank material, tank settlement etc).

15. What are the types of flexible spring hangers?
1. Constant Spring Hanger 2. Variable Spring Hanger.

16. Where do you provide anchor and slotted support of heat exchanger?
Anchor support of heat exchanger is provided on the side from which tube bundle will be pulled out for the purpose of maintenance work also it is based on the growth of the connecting piping as exchanger should grow with the piping.

17. What should be the material of shoes for supporting as pipes & why?
If CS shoes are used then pad in contact with the pipe shall be of alloy steel to avoid dissimilar welding at pipe. To avoid alloy steel welding and dissimilar welding, fabricated clamps either of CS or SS can be used.

18. What are sway braces?
Sway braces are essentially a double acting spring housed in a canister. Their purpose is to limit the undesirable movement. Undesirable movement means movement caused by wind loading, rapid valve closure, relief valve opening, two phase flow or earthquake.

19. What is the difference between variable spring hanger and constant spring hanger?
Variable spring hanger: -
As the name itself indicates the resistance of the coil to a load changes during compression.
Constant spring hanger: -
Constant spring hanger provides constant support force for pipes and equipment subjected to vertical movement due to thermal expansion.

These interview questions help employers evaluate a candidate's expertise in pipe support design and their ability to ensure the reliability and safety of piping systems in various applications.

Pipe support types

These are structures used to support pipes in a system to ensure, for instance, that the pipes do not sag or vibrate or undertake excessive stress in their length. There are many types of pipe supports which have been developed to meet particular need and condition. The main types of pipe supports include:The main types of pipe supports include:

Hangers: Pipe hangers on the other hand are fixtures that support the load from the pipe on a structure like the beam, ceiling or wall. These are known as clevis hangers, variable spring hangers, and constant support hangers depending on the range of movement of the pipe they are required to afford.

Clamps: These couplings are mainly applied to hold pipework with substantial rigidity and at the same time provide for axial movements and thermal expansion. Available in several types such as split clamps u bend or u bolts and cushion type clamps.

Shoes and Saddles: Pipe shoes and saddles are used to bear the pipes where they are passing through some structure of the building for example a wall or floor. They assist in sharing the loads and support while the system of expansion and contraction is made.

Guides: Pipe restraint are used to restrict the ability of pipes to move especially horizontally but can allow for the pipe to move axially in the directions of its length. They prevent what known as lateral movement, that is, the movement in the horizontal direction or the tendency to sway or shift.

Anchors: Some of the pipes require to be anchored to prevent pipe movement in the axially as well as in any lateral direction. They are critically useful in avoiding relative motion which is very detrimental in sensitive systems.

Struts and Trapeze Supports: Other applications include strut channels used to mount pipes and other equipment to ceiling and beams such as trapeze supports. They offer an authoritative means for holding them and they are likewise flexible to change in order to suit the holding of pipes.

Spring Supports: Spring supports use coil springs to take the load of the pipes and equipments. They are able to enable vertical movement and supply a constant force of support.

Shields and Shrouds: They are employed in order to safeguard tubes from impacts, vices and influences that exist outside the pipeline, especially where the environment is chemically or mechanically erosive.

Limit Stops: Limit stops are employed to put checks on any movement of pipes or equipment with the aim of not allowing them to be over-extended or over-compressed.

Cushion and Strut Clamps: These clamps are meant to reduce the amount of vibration and noise produced when pipes are being supported.

The sort of pipe support required in any application depends with the pipe size and material that is to be supported, the temperature and pressure of the system, required movement allowances and structural requisites. Selectrical and proper installation of supports play a very important role in the main tenance and safety of piping systems.

What is pipe support

Pipe support is a structure whereby the structure or some or all of the weight of the pipe and the things placed in it is supported. Pipe supports can be used in such fields as water and gas supply and distribution, irrigation, industrial processes, chemical industries, oil and gas industries, electrical power industries, mining, food processing industry, production of drinks and medications, and many others.

There are many different types of pipe supports, but the most common types are:

• Saddles: Saddles are therefore categoried as one of the simplest form of pipe support. They are largely of steel or iron; they are used to bear pipe weight load. In some of the designs, it is deliberately made to be rigid, while others may be designed to have variation to suit the kind of use intended for the saddle.
• Hangers: Suspension hangers are employed to suspend pipe from structural member. They can be mainly made from steel or iron and they are mainly of fixed hanger or hanger with provision for adjustments.
• Shoes: At ground levels pipes are supported using shoes Piping is external and is fabricated using various fittings. It can be fixed or adjustable in design and can be manufactured from concrete or from steel.
• Springs: pipes have springs that will minimize all forms of vibration and any movement on a piping system. Springs are chiefly in steel and can be either fixed or adjustable.
• Expansion joints: Expansion joints are utilized in a bid to cater for thermal expansion of/and contraction of pipelines. Expansion joints also require either rubber or metal and provide again the possibleness for a fixed or expandable type.

Pipe supports have been adopted by many industries and are regularly employed for supporting pipework within the society. Since pipes having their loads influenced by the supports, then pipe supports play a role of helping in reducing leaks, failures and other related problems.

Here are some of the benefits of using pipe supports:

• Prevent leaks and failures
• Support the weight of pipes and their contents
• Absorb vibration and movement
• Absorb thermal expansion and contraction
• Enhance the security and integrity of piping system

Pipe support have been widely used in many procedures of piping and are important aspects in the functionality of these systems.

Pipe support details

Pipe support details are the particulars of pipe support and how the various parts that are used in supporting the piping systems are constructed. These are crucial aspects of pipe work to guarantee solidity, and the safeguard measure to avoid pipe failure in industrial and commercial building applications. Here are some common pipe support details:

Hanger Details:

• Hanger type (e.g., clevis hanger, adjustable hanger, rigid hanger).
• Material specifications for hanger components.
• Spacing between hangers.
• Attachment methods to the structure (e.g., threaded rods, clamps).
• Load-bearing capacity of hangers.

Clamp Details:

• Clamp type (e.g., split clamp, u-bolt clamp).
• Material specifications for clamp components.
• Size and diameter of the clamp.
• Cushioning materials used in the clamp (e.g., rubber, neoprene).
• Bolt or nut specifications for clamp assembly.

Shoe and Saddle Details:

• Type of shoe or saddle (e.g., base shoe, pipe saddle).
• Material specifications for shoes and saddles.
• Load distribution characteristics.
• Welding or attachment details for shoes and saddles to the structure.

Guide Details:

• Guide type (e.g., axial guide, lateral guide).
• Material specifications for guide components.
• Clearance and tolerance requirements.
• Attachment methods to the structure.
• Allowable movement ranges for the guide.

Anchor Details:

• Type of anchor (e.g., rigid anchor, expansion anchor).
• Material specifications for anchor components.
• Attachment and bracing details to prevent lateral movement.
• Load-bearing and load-restraining characteristics.

Strut and Trapeze Support Details:

• Strut or trapeze size and configuration.
• Material specifications for components.
• Mounting and bracing details to the structure.
• Spacing and arrangement of supports along the strut.

Spring Support Details:

• Spring support type (e.g., variable spring support, constant spring support).
• Material specifications for spring components.
• Spring rate and load-carrying capacity.
• Attachment and anchoring details.

Shield and Shroud Details:

• Material and coating specifications for shields and shrouds.
• Attachment and fastening methods.
• Protective characteristics (e.g., corrosion resistance, abrasion resistance).

Limit Stop Details:

• Type of limit stop (e.g., limit stop ring, limit stop collar).
• Material specifications.
• Range of allowable movement.
• Attachment and adjustment details.

Cushion and Strut Clamp Details:

• Type of cushion and strut clamp.
• Material and cushioning specifications.
• Clamp size and diameter.
• Bolt and nut details for assembly.

These details are important so as to properly design, fabricate and place pipe supports to suit the particularities of a piping system. Good pipe support details avoid problems such as sagging, vibrations and excessive stress which are hazardous to the entire piping system.

How to calculate pipe support span

To calculate pipe support span, you can use the following formula:

L = √(d/w * E)

where:

• L is the pipe support span in feet
• d is the pipe diameter in inches
• w is the weight of the pipe and its contents per foot in pounds per foot
• E is a support factor that accounts for the type of pipe support and the loading conditions

The support factor E can either be in tabular form or graphical form given in the pipe engineering handbooks. E will again be determined by the kind of pipe support needed and the kind of load which the support will be expected to bear. For example, pipe support fixed at both terminated will have higher support factor than pipe support simply supported at both the terminated.

Here is an example of how to calculate pipe support span:

Problem: Design the support span for a 12 inch diameter steel pipe pipe which has the self weight of 10 pounds per foot and has a fluid which weighs 20 pounds per foot.

Solution:

         1.Determine the total weight of the pipe and its contents per foot:

                 Total weight per foot = weight of pipe + weight of fluid

                 Total weight per foot = 10 pounds per foot + 20 pounds per foot 

                 Total weight per foot = 30 pounds per foot

           2.Determine the support factor E:

The support factor E for a pipe support that is fixed at both ends is 2.0.

           3..Calculate the pipe support span:

L = √(d/w * E)

 L = √(12 inches / 30 pounds per foot * 2.0)

 L = 1.94 feet

Therefore, the pipe support span is 1.94 feet.

However, one has to understand that the mentioned above formula is an approximate method to calculation pipe support span. For a few applications, additional techniques may be necessary, for instance, for pipes that encounter dynamic loads or which convey fatal fluids. This is the reason it would be advisable to seek the services of a professional engineer while designing piping systems.

pipe support guidelines

Here are some pipe support guidelines:

• Support pipes at regular intervals. The maximum support span for pipes will depend on the pipe diameter, material, and contents. However, a good general rule of thumb is to support pipes at least every 10 feet.
• Support pipes at changes in direction. Pipes should be supported at all changes in direction, such as elbows and tees. This will help to prevent the pipe from sagging or buckling.
• Support heavy loads. Heavy loads, such as pumps, valves, and heat exchangers, should be supported independently of the piping system. This will prevent the weight of these loads from putting undue stress on the piping.
• Use the right type of pipe support. There are many different types of pipe supports available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is important to select the right type of pipe support for the specific application.
• Install pipe supports properly. Pipe supports must be installed properly to be effective. This includes ensuring that the supports are properly sized and that they are securely attached to the pipe and to the supporting structure.

Here are some additional tips for designing and installing pipe supports:

• Consider the type of pipe. The type of pipe will affect the type of support that is required. For example, plastic pipes require different supports than steel pipes.
• Consider the weight of the pipe and its contents. The weight of the pipe and its contents will affect the required size and strength of the support.
• Consider the operating conditions. The operating conditions, such as the temperature and pressure, will also affect the type of support that is required.
• Consider the future. If the pipe system is likely to be expanded or modified in the future, it is important to design the supports to accommodate these changes.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines. The specific requirements for pipe supports will vary depending on the specific application. It is always best to consult with a qualified engineer when designing and installing pipe supports.

Standard pipe support

"Standard pipe support" typically refers to pipe support systems, components, and practices that adhere to recognized industry standards and codes. The use of standard pipe supports ensures that piping systems are installed and maintained in compliance with safety, performance, and quality requirements. Some common standards and codes that govern pipe support systems include:

ASME B31.1 and ASME B31.3: These American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) codes provide guidelines for the design, construction, and inspection of power piping (B31.1) and process piping (B31.3). They include recommendations for the selection and design of pipe supports.

ANSI/MSS SP-69 and SP-58: The Manufacturers Standardization Society (MSS) of the Valve and Fittings Industry publishes standards like SP-69 (for hangers and supports) and SP-58 (for pipe hanger design and engineering). These standards detail specifications for pipe support systems.

ASTM F937: ASTM International publishes standards for materials and components used in pipe supports, including hangers and struts.

API 650 and API 620: The American Petroleum Institute (API) has codes that include requirements for the design and installation of storage tanks and associated piping, often specifying pipe support details.

API 650 and API 620: The American Petroleum Institute (API) contain codes that detail design and installation of storage tanks and the related pipe lines, where pipe supports are frequently detailed.

AWWA M11 : In the guide to design and installation of Steel Pipes, AWWA has provided guidelines to the pipe support systems used for water and wastewater.

Building Codes: Other codes may also state provisions on pipe supports, particularly in structures such as commercial and residential ones.

Standard pipe supports that will be used need to be pertinent to the pipe material, size, temperature, pressure and the particular service or operation. This is with the intention of establishing the pipe support system that has ability to support pipe’s weight, consider the effects of expansion and contraction due to heat and avoid cases of pipe sagging or vibrating thereby exerting force on the pipe and causing damage.

Following the code and standards in the industry is also essential because apart from keeping the integrity of the piping system it also facilitates the safety and also compliancy. Such standards and code are often used by engineers, contractors and installers when ordering and installing pipe support systems so as to conform to acceptable quality and safety standards.

Pipe support structure

Pipe support structure is an arrangement of system that is employed to bear the load of the pipe and its contents. Pipe support structures are employed in a wide assortment of industries and installations such as in water supply and distribution, irrigation, industrial processes, chemical production, oil and natural gas, electricity generation, mining, food and drink production and pharmaceutical industries.

The pipe supports equipment may be fabricated from steel, concrete, and wood among other materials. The specific type of material to be used will be a factor of the intended use and load bearing requirements.

As for the support structures of the pipe, they may vary and be very simple, as well as quite complex in the case that is necessary. Single point support of pipes include single member supports such as a saddle or hanger. Compound pipeline support systems may include a number of supports which can be in the form of a frame or a rack.

Here are some examples of pipe support structures:

• Pipe racks: Pipe racks are used when one or more number of pipes have to be supported in parallel manner. Pipe racks may be either simple or compound; these structures are often comprised of steel.
• Pipe bridges: Pipe bridges are used where it becomes necessary to lay down pipes over a large span. Pipe bridges may be either steel pipe bridges or concrete pipe bridges.
• Pipe tunnels: Pipe tunnels serve to bear pipes at the underground. Pipe tunnels are ordinarily formed of concrete.
• Pipe support frames: Pipe support frames are being employed for supporting the pipes in different manners. The pipe support frames can be of steel or aluminium.
• Pipe hangers: Pipe supports on the other hand are employed on pipes and they include pipe hangers which support pipes on overheads. Pipe hangers may be of steel or aluminum construction.

Pipe Supporting structures are widely used in many industries and are very critical in functioning of piping systems with safety. Pipe support structures have the function of bearing the weight of pipes and their content, this eliminates the chances of pipes leaking, failing and so on.

Here are some of the benefits of using pipe support structures:

• Prevent leaks and failures
• Support the weight of pipes and their contents
• Absorb vibration and movement
• Absorb thermal expansion and contraction
• Optimise the protection and dependability of piping facilities

The pipe support structures are significant elements of many piping systems and have immense functions in guaranteeing their safe operation. That is why it is necessary to choose the proper design and to install the pipe support structures in the correct way taking into consideration the peculiarities of application.

Pipe supports and hangers

Pipe supports and hangers are fittings with the help of which the weight of a pipe and its contents is borne. This equipment is applied universally in practices such as water and wastewater treatment, water and sewage, industries, chemical, oil and gas industry, power generation, mining, food and beverage industry, and the drug manufacturing industry.

Here are some of the most common types of pipe supports and hangers:

• Saddles: Prime support is the simplest form of pipe support and it is known as saddle. They are normally fabricated from steel or iron most of which are designed to carry the load of the pipes. Saddles can be designed to be fixed or have an adjustable mechanism to suit the requirements of the particular use.

Pipe saddle support

• Hangers: There are hangers whose function is to hang the pipework onto overhead support structures. Hangers are normally constructed of steel or iron and could be of the fixed type or stationary hangers or of the variable type.

Pipe hanger support

• Shoes: Shoes are used to support the weight of pipes at ground level. Shoes are typically made of concrete or steel and can be fixed or adjustable.

Pipe shoe support

• Springs: Majority of the springs used is to reduce or to isolate movement and vibration in the piping system. It may be of fixed design or can be of adjustable type and it is normally made of steel.

Pipe spring support

• Expansion joints: These are just expansion joints, which are fitted in piping systems to allow pistons such as expansion and contraction. Most expansion joints are of rubber or metal, and could be either fixed or expansionary in type.

Pipe expansion joint support

Few industries can do without pipe supports and hangers because they are considered to be essential products that aid in the right support of piping systems. It helps to avoid such things as leaks, failures among other things, pipe support and hangers bear the weights of pipes and their content.

When choosing pipe supports and hangers, it is important to consider the following factors:In matters concerning the pipe supports and hangers the following factors should be considered:

• The type of pipe: Considering the type of the pipe one is in a position to find out the kind of support needed by the pipe in question. For instance the required supports for plastic pipes are different from that of steel pipes are.
• The weight of the pipe and its contents: The size, the weight and the content that has to be transported through the pipe will also decide the size and strength of support needed.
• The operating conditions: The operating conditions for instance the temperature and pressure will also determine the type of support that is needed.
• The future: Where there may be the need to extend or alter the pipe system possibly in future, the design of the supports should make it possible.

It is always unwise to attempt designing or installing the pipe supports or hangers without the services of a professional engineer.

Pipe sleeper vs pipe support

Both pipe sleepers and pipe supports are used as load bearing structures for the pipes, as well as the content of the pipes. However, there is a difference between the two wherein:

The pipe sleepers are normally used to hold pipes which are laid directly on ground. They are usually of concrete or wooden construction and are located in a fixed pattern along the length of the pipe. Pipe sleepers offer a good support base for the pipe with the aim of avoiding sinking of the pipe into the ground.

Pipe supports are mainly employed for use in situations where pipes are installed in such a way that they hang vertically from above. They may be constructed of steel, concrete or wooden frame work among others. Pipe supports may be as basic or as elaborate as required by the given circumstance.

Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between pipe sleepers and pipe supports:

Here are some examples of where pipe sleepers and pipe supports might be used:

• Pipe sleepers:
  • Buried water and sewer lines
  • Irrigation systems
  • Underground oil and gas pipelines
• Pipe supports:
  • Pipe racks
  • Pipe bridges
  • Pipe tunnels
  • Pipe support frames
  • Pipe hangers

In some cases, pipe sleepers and pipe supports may be used together. For example, pipe sleepers may be used to support a pipe rack that is located on the ground.

There are a number of categories of pipe supports as well as sleepers and it is necessary to select the right one in every case. When making a selection, some of the factors that should be considered include the type of pipe, the weight of the pipe and or its content, the operating conditions and the future of the pipe system.