Pipe Support Rollers for Thermal Expansion and Tip Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pipe support systems for heavy piping are prone to tipping over during installation and do not accommodate thermal expansion effectively, leading to increased stress and wear on the pipes.
Innovation Solution
A pipe support system comprising a pair of leg supports with adjustable components, including a strut and a support platform with rotatable rollers and disks, allowing for axial movement and reducing friction, thereby preventing tipping and stress on the pipes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed pipe support system is used, then the structure is simple and stable, but it cannot accommodate thermal expansion and causes increased stress on pipes
Solution Approach 1:
The support system incorporates movable components including rollers that can rotate along the pipe axis and disks that can slide axially, transforming the static support structure into a dynamic system that adapts to thermal expansion and contraction of the pipe
2Reliability
If heavy piping is supported with a stationary system, then installation is straightforward, but the system tips over during installation and operation
Solution Approach 1:
The support system uses a wide base structure with leg supports spaced apart to create a stable foundation that counteracts the tipping moment caused by heavy pipe loads, preventing the system from overturning during installation and operation
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a fixed support platform is used, then the structure is rigid and stable, but it creates friction and wear on the pipe
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces direct sliding contact between the pipe and support platform with rolling contact through the use of rollers, substituting high-friction sliding mechanics with low-friction rolling mechanics to reduce wear on the pipe
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system efficiently supports heavy piping without tipping, reduces wear, and facilitates easier installation by allowing axial movement due to thermal expansion, enhancing installation efficiency and reducing stress on the pipes.
Implementation Method 1
reduces friction, thereby preventing tipping and stress on the pipes
Data Source
AI summary
A pipe support system includes a pair of leg supports spaced apart from one another. Each of the pair of leg supports includes an elongated base and a column. The pipe support system also includes a strut coupled to each column of the pair of leg supports and at a first height above the elongated bases. A support platform coupled to each column of the pair of leg supports and at a second height above the elongated bases. The support platform defines a longitudinal axis, and the second height is different from the first height. The pipe support system further includes one or more rollers coupled to the support platform. The one or more rollers are disposed around the support platform and rotatable around the longitudinal axis.