When it comes to pipe restraints, the importance of liners is often overlooked. However, these seemingly small components play a crucial role in extending the lifespan not only of the restraints themselves but also of the entire piping system.
Are you curious about how liners can make such a big difference? Let's explore the ways in which they contribute to the longevity of your piping products and why they are essential.
**Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Pipe Restraints**
Pipe restraints face numerous challenges, and it’s not always immediately apparent what shortens their lifespan. Here are some key factors to consider:
- **Corrosion**: Corrosion is a silent but potent enemy of metal surfaces in your piping system. If your pipe restraints are made of metal, you need to be mindful of how prone they are to corrosion. Two common types of corrosion to watch out for are:
- **Galvanic Corrosion**: This occurs when dissimilar metals come into contact under certain conditions, leading to an electrochemical reaction. One metal essentially steals electrons from another, causing rust and eventual damage.
- **Surface Wear**: When metal pipes rub against hard surfaces, the outer layer and protective coatings wear away. Small scratches and dents can serve as breeding grounds for corrosive substances, leading to further damage.
- **Metal-on-Metal Contact**: Direct contact between the metal of pipes and supports can lead to significant wear and tear. Not only does it increase the risk of corrosion, but it can also weaken the restraint itself. Without proper protection, pipe restraints can dig into the pipes, causing ruptures. Heavy movement, such as that caused by reciprocating compressors, amplifies this issue, increasing the likelihood of damage.
- **Incompatible Materials**: Some materials simply aren’t suited to handle the stresses of a piping system without additional protection. Thermal expansion and contraction can cause heavy pipes to shift and scrape against metal supports, leading to damage. This is particularly problematic in systems where cold pipes rest directly on metal supports, as this can lead to ice formation and deterioration.
**How Do Liners Protect Pipe Restraints?**
Liners offer several critical benefits that help protect pipe restraints:
- **Preventing Galvanic Corrosion**: Liners made of non-metallic materials act as an insulator, separating pipes from metal surfaces. This prevents the electrochemical reactions that lead to galvanic corrosion.
- **Absorbing Vibrations**: In some cases, liners are designed to absorb vibrations and cushion the impact of metal-on-metal contact. This allows pipes to move more freely without causing damage to the restraints.
- **Reducing Friction Wear**: When pipes rub against restraints, both the pipe and the restraint can suffer wear and tear. Liners with a lower coefficient of friction enable pipes to slide more smoothly, protecting both the pipe and the restraint from excessive wear.
- **Performing Well in Extreme Conditions**: Liners can be made of materials that resist extreme temperatures, preventing heat transfer and damage. Some liners are specifically designed to perform well in hot environments, while others are built to withstand cold conditions and prevent ice formation.
**Materials Used for Liners**
While liners can be made from various materials, some are particularly effective for ensuring long-lasting performance in piping systems. Here are a few popular options:
- **Teflon**: Teflon liners provide a low coefficient of friction and are durable enough to handle harsh conditions. Fabric-Backed Teflon, for example, is resistant to delamination and can be used to control pipe vibrations. Products like VibraTek hold down clamps include a thick lining that absorbs impacts, allows axial movement, and minimizes surface damage.
- **Polyurethane**: Polyurethane liners are heavy-duty and can withstand extreme conditions. They can be molded to prevent delamination at high temperatures and often include UV inhibitors to ensure performance in sunny environments. Polyurethane liners are commonly used in hold down straps to minimize pipe damage.
- **Custom Materials**: Some manufacturers offer the flexibility to choose a liner material that best matches your specific system requirements. Options might include urethane, neoprene, or sodium-etched Teflon, depending on the unique demands of your piping system.
**Enhancing Your Piping System’s Longevity**
If you're looking to boost the durability and performance of your piping system, consider investing in APP’s proprietary VibraTek liner. It fits precisely to pipes, resists moisture, and reduces the risk of breakage. For those seeking a liner that can easily integrate into existing clamps, check out our TIFLEX TICO products. These clips or clamp strips are made of rubber-bonded cork or extruded polymers and come in three main types, each suited to different operating temperatures.
For more insights into optimizing your pipe supports, download our comprehensive guide to pipe restraints. It’s packed with valuable information to help you maximize the lifespan of your piping system.
Ready to take your piping system to the next level? Contact us today to learn more about how our products can enhance your system’s performance and longevity.
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