The industrial piping industry is on a rapid growth trajectory, with estimates projecting a market value of $225.7 billion by 2032. The forecasted CAGR for the industry stands as 5.4% per annum based on these projections. Despite this expansion, the inherent challenges and destructive forces that pipes face in various industrial settings remain a concern.
To counter these challenges, manufacturers are driving innovation in the field of pipe support systems, introducing cutting-edge solutions to safeguard pipes and enhance their performance. These solutions are geared towards ensuring a solution that not only ensures the long-term sustainability of the piping structure, but also of commercial and industrial rooftops.
Here, we will take a closer look at the latest trends and innovations in pipe support systems and their impact on roofing integrity and overall performance.
Advances in Composite Pipe Supports
Traditionally, metals have been the default choice in the piping industry. However, recent years have witnessed a significant shift towards the use of high-quality composite pipe supports to reinforce piping systems. The reasons for this shift are multifaceted:
Dissimilar Metal Corrosion
When dissimilar metals with different chemical properties come into contact, it can lead to galvanic corrosion, causing harm to pipes. The use of piping insulation effectively isolates metals with conflicting properties, preventing damaging reactions.
Surface Abrasion
Surface abrasion can cause substantial damage to pipes when they come into contact with abrasive surfaces, similar to a car's muffler scraping against a concrete speed bump. These abrasive interactions lead to worn-down pipes and create pits on metal surfaces, making them susceptible to corrosion.
Advanced piping insulation have mitigated abrasion damage by providing cushioning to heavy pipes, preventing them from scraping against hard surfaces. Innovations like the PP10 with Channel and Hanger, PSE-2-2, and PSE Custom offer protection and support to pipes, reducing metal-on-metal contact and minimizing potential damage.
Increasing Sophistication in Temperature Control
Managing extreme temperatures in piping systems has long been a challenge. Metal's high conductivity results in heat transfer between metals, which can lead to several issues:
- Energy loss from pipes, reducing efficiency.
- Thermal expansion causing pipe movement and erosion.
- Formation of ice in cold systems, potentially damaging pipes.
A Renewed Focus on Corrosion Resistance
Corrosion has long plagued the piping industry, costing around $2.5 trillion annually in North America alone, according to the American Galvanizers Association. Manufacturers are exploring novel approaches to tackle this issue:
Controlling Movement
The dynamic nature of pipes, filled with flowing gasses and liquids, leads to inevitable movement. When uncontrolled, pipes can collide with objects, rupture, or undergo erosion. Innovative pipe restraints are emerging to address this challenge. Restraints like RB-18 with Roller and SS8-RL Low Profile enable pipes to move along a defined axis without erratic hopping, reducing the risk of breakages and evenly distributing stress.
Protective Coatings
Beyond friction and wear, pipes are exposed to harsh environmental conditions, including salt-laden air, chemicals, moisture, and microbial agents that contribute to corrosion. Manufacturers are countering these threats by integrating chemical-resistant coatings, advanced sealants, and waterproofing technologies to shield metals from corroding agents.
Enhanced Design and Engineering for Piping Infrastructure
The modernization of pipe support systems goes beyond materials and surface treatments. Innovative trends also encompass advanced design and engineering solutions aimed at optimizing the performance and longevity of piping infrastructure.
Modular & Versatile Systems
Manufacturers such as PHP Systems/Design are developing modular pipe support systems that can be easily adapted to varying configurations and layouts. This modular approach allows for flexibility in design, making it simpler to address complex installations and ensure that the support system aligns with specific project requirements.
The SS8-RL Low Profile Modular Pipe Support is a prime example of this.
Custom Solutions for Specialized Applications
Some industries demand highly specialized solutions. For instance, the energy sector often requires support for heavy pipes carrying critical resources. Advanced manufacturers are focusing on engineering customized support solutions that cater to the unique needs of these specialized applications.
These custom supports ensure reliability and efficiency even in the most demanding environments.
Advanced Simulation & Analysis
The adoption of advanced simulation and analysis tools has revolutionized the design process. Engineers can now perform comprehensive stress analysis and simulation studies, enabling them to predict how different conditions may affect pipe supports. This enhanced predictive capability results in more robust and resilient designs, minimizing the risk of unexpected failures.
PHP Systems/Design offers rigorous data testing, which involves simulations and detailed analysis of harsh conditions based on your specific commercial or industrial property. This allows for a much more robust pipe support system design, tailored specifically to your needs.
Adoption of Trends for More Resilient Pipe Support Systems
Incorporating these advanced design and engineering trends into pipe support systems elevates their performance, resilience, and adaptability to a wide range of applications. By focusing on modularity, customization, simulation, and sustainability, manufacturers are further enhancing the reliability of piping infrastructure and contributing to the longevity of roofing systems.
The continuous evolution of pipe support systems is a testament to the industry's commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring that roofing integrity and performance are upheld in an ever-changing landscape.
This shows that as the industrial piping industry continues to expand, addressing challenges such as dissimilar metal corrosion, surface abrasion, temperature control, and corrosion resistance is paramount. The adoption of composite pipe supports and innovative solutions provides effective protection for pipes, enhancing their performance and longevity. As the industry evolves, manufacturers are continually innovating to ensure the integrity and reliability of piping systems.
How PHP Systems/Design Creates Bespoke Pipe Support Systems for Roofing
For organizations seeking tailored pipe support systems that prioritize efficiency, safety, and long-term performance, PHP Systems/Design offers a comprehensive solution. Our expertise in engineering customized pipe supports allows us to address unique project requirements. We take pride in developing systems that are not only effective but also durable, ensuring the continued reliability of your roofing.
Whether you require support for roof piping in extreme temperatures, protection against corrosion, or advanced solutions to enhance the performance of your piping systems, PHP Systems/Design is here to help. Contact us today to request pricing or call to discuss your project further, and let our team of experts provide you with the ideal pipe support solution.
