Thermal piping expansion compensation - anchor placement strategy

[PlantSP]

Hello all,

I would kindly ask for your opinions please.
For my work, I have a horizontal piping network similar to H with branches coming off vertically from the network and feeding air handling units (UTA). It is a 3D problem.
Please see attached.
I am tasked to calculate and accommodate piping thermal expansion.
Do you have any ideas on how to proceed , where to install fix anchors /guiding anchors ?
Any good source to read about .
Please advise.
Thanks,Sasa

 

[EnergyProfessional]

ASHRAE handbook has guidelines for expansion loops. I think in the fundamentals book, but I'm too lazy at night to look...
Not sure they have specific guidelines on how many you need per so many feet at what temperature ranges.
how much expansion you have you can calculate with your low temp (i.e. space temp) and the highest system temp and then use expansion coefficient for copper or steel depending on your pipes.

 

[sun005]

Yes you can refer to MSS standards SP 69 , Ashare 2016 - System and Equipments Chapter 46 pipes, tubes & fittings

Hope this helps.

Thanks
Raji

 

[PlantSP]

Hello, Thank you very much guys.
Yes, I am aware of ASHRAE. I was thinking on some proven hands on design guidelines e.g. equipment suppliers or similar.

Thanks

 

[LittleInch]

How are you doing this?

Normally nowadays you have a program to provide movements and stresses.

Try and avoid anchors if possible - just complicates life. Model your system just with simple supports and if the system needs some anchor point, then stick on in the middle of the H and see what happens. Guides are quite common on longer runs to keep it all straight, but each system is so different, there are few guidelines others than trying it out and seeing if it overstresses.

Your system seems to have a reasonable amount of flexibility for all the connections off it, but will depend on what levels of force or stress your connections into the equipment can stand.

Remember - More details = better answers
Also: If you get a response it's polite to respond to it.

 

[QualityTime]

As Little Inch says try to avoid the use of anchors. If you have a 3D network of piping the pipe will be flexible enough to take up the movement and the stress without affecting the load on the equipment nozzle. Never ever put anchors at two points on a straight run of pipe