Using Steam Drum as support

[parsomash1977]

Hello All,

I have difficulties here to support the main steam pipe because there is no column, post or structure around at the elevation we are running the pipe(28ft). the only thing I see to use is the steam drum lift tabs and few braces from the drum to support catwalk alongside it.I am wondering is that allowable to do ? I mean can I extend that cat walk braces and knee brace it to support 12" pipe. also, what about put a post using that lift hanger on top of drum.
Your response is highly appreciated.

Thank you

 

[Duwe6]

What do the calc's say? "If it cannot be expressed in numbers, it is opinion, not engineering".

It is perfectly acceptable to do as you propose *IF* the numbers work out. You will be adding a significant structural load to a pressure vessel. This may add too much stress to the drum's nozzles. Additionally, allow for expansion. A main steam line is quite a bit longer hot than it is when cold and being fabricated. They have been known to rip out pipe supports that were a combination of too restrictive and too weak.