PIPING SUPPORT CASE STUDY

Wrong location for a small-bore piping

connection
PROBLEM STATEMENT
10-inch process pipe supported on a
support beam.
2-inch piping was installed close to the
beam.
Failure of the 2-inch pipe
PROBLEM
The 2-inch pipe was very close to the
support
Due heating and cooling there was
expansion and contraction of the pipe
system
Because the thermal expansion clearance
was not given the 2-inch pipe failed under
compression
SOLUTION
The support system plays an important role
in the mechanical integrity of the piping
system.

Possibility 1:When the thermal analysis is

being carried out it should include the
support system as well.
Possibility 2: If the addition was made
later the thermal analysis must be carried
out and the required support must be
provided/relocated.