If you do use what we think you are calling a u-bolt support, how are you going to compensate for heatup and cooldown movements of the now-rigid pipe connecting to the rigid (?) support? Will the U-bolt be left loose to allow the pipe to slid or twist when hot? If so, how is that loose u-bolt going to support the pipe? (There are ways (like a sliding pad under the pipe, or assumptions that the pipe is only constrained in left-right position, not axially.)
Typically, U-bolt support is used for the pipe under 2" size as the lateral guide support. It can be bolted up with double nuts for keeping a small gap, e.g. 1/8", around the pipe. And, the oversized U-bolt is typically installed on the outside insulation of the steam or condensate pipes as a pipe guide. For the steam pipe of 2" and larger, the pipe shoe may be used for the required support.
First, find a vendor that sells ALL TYPES of hardware for pipe supports..... read the catalog
They make recommendations for the type of hardware appropriate for the application.
You seem to be looking for a simple blanket rule that will cove all types of systems in all diameters and all temperatures... life is not that simple and that is why we have engineers and not just an army of clerks and scribes.
What are your pipe diameters, temperatures and pressures ?
Is your installation indoors or outdoors ? .... Is it near the ocean ?
Why is it that everyone like you never offers enough information in your initial question and we have to go through repeated questioning ?
