Spring hanger can inspection

[Patrick LaPointe]

Consider a pipe supported from above. The configuration is a pipe clamp, threaded rod, turnbuckle, spring hanger (say a B-268 Size 10)and a Figure 66 welded beam attachment. The task at hand is the inspection of pipe supports and to ultimately determine their fit for service. Since the load path of a spring support goes through the can itself, how does one determine the fit for service of this spring hanger can? The spring hanger support is located outdoors in a sea coast environment. When new, the can was protected from corrosion with a high quality industrial coating system. After 25 years, this coating may be compromised. Would one need to determine the thickness of the can construction? Once the thickness is determined, how to decide go no-go for the can itself?

 

[XL83NL]

I know Lisega provides support through site inspection. I’ve seen a few ppt slides of typical site findings. It’s amazing the things they find sometimes, but I guess that counts other manufacturer’s cans as well.
If it’s a can from them, you might want to contact the manufacturer for their support.

I don’t have a bulleted list of things to check, nor a standard to go to.

 

[EngDesServices]

When a line is coming down we often go ahead and replace the spring cans if they have been in service for a given amount of time, with that time depending on the service. The cost of the cans is nothing compared to shutting down the unit if one fails while in service. If there is a particular can in question, try and see if the plant will let you set up a camera to record the movement of the can as the line cools. You can go back and review the footage to see if the can is operating as expected and make a recommendation accordingly.

If a can has been in service for 25 years, maybe it's simply time to replace it?

Michael Hall, PE (TX) PMP - President
Engineering Design Services LLC

http://www.engdess.com