Piping Strain

An unwanted mechanical condition caused by a misalignment between machine suction and discharge flanges and the corresponding pipe flange connections. Unacceptable pipe strain can be any forces from unanchored piping that will cause equipment deformation of more than 0.002 in. (0.05 mm). Piping strain usually results in vibration and the failure of internal components due to excessive casing misalignment. Excessive strain may be the result of:

• Thermal expansion and contraction of the piping. This indicates improper piping design. Expansion joints or loops may have to be installed.
• Improper pipe support. Frequent problems arise from indiscriminate use of rod hangers (instead of spring hangers), anchors, or restraints used during the pipe installation.
• Misalignment of the pipe flanges to machine suction and discharge flanges.