Help with calculating the load-bearing capacity of pipe supports

This module helps you calculate the load-bearing capacity of pipe supports, as well as the energy savings you achieve by insulating them.

All calculations require that you enter all parameters before you can perform the calculation. The calculations are divided into an “Uninsulated” and an “Insulated” part. You must first enter and calculate the installation in the uninsulated state before you can enter data for the insulated installation. If you change the entered values after you have performed a calculation, you must press the "Calculate" button to update the resultsBelow you can see an overview of the values you need to enter to make a calculation.

Why is it important!

In an operating system, especially for large diameter metal pipe sections, pipe supports can be expected to handle significant loads as they must support both the weight of the pipe and the media within. In insulated systems, it is extremely important to also consider the load-bearing capacity of the insulation between the external support and the pipe, in addition to the load-bearing capacity of the clamp, support or fitting. This is particularly important for horizontal installations.

Failure of the insulation material can cause several problems that can threaten the mechanical performance of the entire pipeline. In addition to increasing heat transfer, a bearing that settles or fails will create geometric changes in the steel pipe, which can result in significant stresses, especially near nozzles, flanges and joints. This calculator has been developed to help the user select the correct dimensions and materials for an insulated bearing.

Foam type

The first thing to consider when assessing the load-bearing capacity of an insulated pipe support is its compressive strength. Increased density in a product type typically provides a higher compressive strength, allowing it to handle higher loads. It is important to note that the density of the material is not standardized, but is determined by how it is manufactured. Thus, density should never be used alone to compare the compressive strength of different products, even if they are nominally made of the same material.
Dan-iso offers foam types with compressive strengths ranging from 360 kPa to 8000 kPa.

Safety factor

Dan-iso's calculations provide a maximum load-bearing capacity, which is calculated by applying a safety factor to the compressive strength. The higher the safety factor, the greater the margin for error. Dan-iso recommends using a safety factor of 5.5.
For example, Dan-iso PUR 60 has a minimum compressive strength of 550 kPa. By applying the safety factor of 5.5 this will give a load capacity of 100 kPa or approximately 1 kg/cm².

Contact angle

This pressure is applied over a specific area. Since the load is applied to a circular section, an effective contact angle must be assumed. Typical contact angles range from 90° to 120°. Dan-iso recommends using a contact angle of 100°. A lower contact angle will provide a greater margin of safety for the calculations.

Length

The last parameter to enter is the length of the support. This dimension is measured along the length of the pipe.

Responsibility:

Since the user's application method in individual cases is beyond our control, Dan-iso A/S cannot assume responsibility for the results obtained if the user has not obtained and received our confirmation that the calculations are suitable for the specific purpose. The right to make changes is reserved.