Solving Pipe Support Design Issues for Complex Projects

In large-scale infrastructure and industrial projects, improperly designed or incorrectly specified pipe supports can lead to major structural failures, unexpected downtime, and costly repairs. Engineers and contractors working on refineries, pipelines, and power plants know that one-size-fits-all solutions often fall short.

Why Accurate Load Calculations and Custom Designs Matter

Complex projects demand precise engineering. Standard pipe supports may not accommodate unique structural loads, thermal expansion, vibration, or seismic conditions. Without accurate load calculations:

• Structural integrity is compromised – Excessive stress on pipes can lead to fatigue and failure.
• Maintenance costs increase – Incorrectly specified supports accelerate wear and tear.
• Project schedules suffer – Fixing installation errors leads to delays and budget overruns.

Custom-designed supports ensure the right load distribution, compliance with industry standards, and longevity of the piping system. Early contractor engagement and detailed engineering analysis are key to preventing costly design flaws.

Choosing the Right Pipe Supports for Your Needs

Selecting the best pipe support system depends on several factors:

• Load Requirements: Consider axial, lateral, and vertical loads to ensure proper weight distribution.
• Environmental Conditions: High temperatures, chemical exposure, and seismic activity impact material selection.
• Compliance Standards: Meeting ASME, API, and Australian Standards ensures safety and reliability.
• Installation Efficiency: Pre-engineered solutions with BIM/CAD integration streamline the design and procurement process.

A consultative approach, backed by technical expertise and compliance documentation, simplifies the decision-making process.

Real-Life Example: The Ballarat Pipeline Replacement Project

Project Overview

The Ballarat Pipeline Replacement Project is a critical upgrade to the sewer infrastructure for Central Highlands Water, ensuring long-term reliability for the region’s growing population. This initiative highlights the importance of robust engineering solutions in water management.

Working alongside Jacobs and Diona, Anchorage contributed to the project by designing and supplying custom-fabricated pipe shoes to meet unique site-specific challenges.

Innovative Pipe Support Solutions

One of the standout features of this project was the design of specially fabricated pipe shoes, engineered to:

• Support Pipe Joints – Maintaining pipeline integrity by providing stability on either side of the joint.
• Accommodate Movement – The Steelmains MSCL Sintakote pipes use rubber ring joints (RRJ), which allow for slight movement due to temperature changes. The pipe shoes feature a split cradle design that accommodates the RRJ bell mouth, ensuring unrestricted movement.
• Minimise Visual Impact – Designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing infrastructure, the pipe shoes reduce visual disruption.

With a focus on precision engineering and high-quality fabrication, Anchorage ensures that pipe supports not only meet technical performance requirements but also contribute to the longevity and reliability of critical infrastructure projects.

Review Your Designs – Are They Optimised for Your Project?

Struggling with a piping system that doesn’t fully suit your project’s needs? Our team provides specification support, early contractor engagement, and technical guidance to ensure your pipe supports meet load, compliance, and installation requirements—right from the start.

Let’s discuss how a customised approach can improve the reliability and efficiency of your project. Contact us today.