How to Setup a Strut
Struts are linear articulated supports characterized by their high rigidity that restrict the movement of pipe in their axis direction.
As with hydraulic shock arrestors, they can be installed in any position with relation to the pipe depending on the direction of the movement that they are designed to restrict. They connect to the adjacent structure by the use of special beam attachments (“rear bracket”), and they connect to the supported pipe with dynamic clamps (option 1) or with highly rigid plate clamps (option 3). They can also be used for supporting equipment or to connect with trunnions or welded shoes by the use of a rear bracket on the supporting end (option 2).
Basic Setup
Before proceeding, check Understanding Support Datasheet topic for a better knowledge on information architecture.
Step 1: Enter basic data
- First of all, select ‘Strut‘ on ‘Type of Support’ combo box.
- Define ‘Single/Double Type’ configuration (if double, select how you will enter loads on ‘Load Calculations’ field, by support or spring).
- Enter ‘Operational Load (Hot Load)’ value.
- Enter ‘Vertical Movement (+/-)’ value. Positive or negative values are allowed.
Advanced Setup
Choosing the clamp option
A strut is defined by the dynamic clamp that connects it to the pipe. Three options are available, and admissibility depends on the material quality and the operating temperature.
| Option | Character |
|---|---|
| 1 | solid plate dynamic clamp; carbon and stainless steels within temperature and sizing limits |
| 1-A | welded dynamic clamp with a wide variety of size and material combinations |
| 3 | plate design, more economical for lower loads |
Alloy steels are not admissible on option 1 at any temperature, and below a threshold temperature they are not admissible on options 1-A or 3 either. For those cases the software expects carbon or stainless steel.
Take-out and insulation
The mounting dimension is taken from the catalogue unless the real geometry — pipe radius plus insulation plus the clamp constant — needs more room. A small tolerance prevents the software abandoning a catalogue part for a negligible difference.
Thick insulation is the usual reason a strut ends up with a non-standard mounting dimension, which affects both weight and price.
Hydrostatic test
Struts use their own allowable table, uplifted for the test condition.
Deviation angle
Not verified. Given that struts are completely rigid along its axis, the engineer must be very careful designing it if there are any perpendicular movements expected. It is outside the scope of this software to make this decision.
Still need help?
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