Sway Struts

A sway strut is a device used to restrain movement of piping in one direction while providing for movement due to thermal expansion or contraction in another direction.

Sway struts are rigid restraint devices engineered to limit the movement of piping systems caused by vibration, seismic activity, or fluid flow. Unlike dynamic snubbers, which allow thermal movement, a strut pipe support provides a fixed, rigid connection that resists both tensile and compressive forces, maintaining system alignment. Each pipe strut assembly features adjustable threaded components, allowing installers to fine-tune the length for a precise fit between the pipe clamp and the structural attachment. Our rigid support strut product line can handle substantial static and dynamic loads. We manufacture a comprehensive range of standard strut sizes, from lightweight assemblies to heavy-duty industrial units, ensuring the correct load rating is available for your specific strut support application.

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Q: What is the primary function of a strut pipe support? 

A: The primary function of a strut pipe support is to provide a rigid link between the pipe and the structure. It acts as a restraint in both tension and compression, preventing unwanted lateral or longitudinal movement that could damage the piping system or connected equipment.

 

Q: How do I select the correct strut sizes for my project?

A: Selecting the correct strut sizes depends on the anticipated load (in pounds or Newtons) and the overall length required for the assembly. The designer must select a size whose maximum load capacity exceeds the calculated system forces and fits within the installation’s physical space constraints.

 

Q: Is a pipe strut the same thing as a snubber? 

A: No. A pipe strut is a rigid restraint that prevents thermal expansion along its axis, locking the pipe in place. A snubber, conversely, allows for slow thermal movement but locks up only during sudden shock events.

 

Q: How adjustable is a standard support strut? 

A: A standard support strut typically features threaded end attachments (such as rod eyes or clevises) and a central turnbuckle or threaded tube. This allows for significant field adjustment (+/- 4”) to increase or decrease the overall length of the strut support for perfect alignment during installation.

 

Q: Can a strut support be used to dampen vibration? 

A: Yes. By creating a rigid connection point, a strut support effectively increases the piping system’s stiffness. This rigidity shifts the system’s natural frequency, helping eliminate or significantly reduce harmful vibration amplitudes caused by fluid flow or mechanical operation.

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Sway Strut Information

MATERIAL: Carbon steel, except for load pin, which is an Alloy.

SPECIFICATIONS:
• Manufacturer’s Standardization Society SP-58
• Manufacturer’s Standardization Society SP-69
• ANSI Code for Pressure Piping ANSI B31.1 and ANSI B31.3

RECOMMENDED SERVICE: Used to restrain movement of piping in one direction while providing for movement due to thermal expansion or contraction in another direction.

FEATURES:
• Effective under either tensile or compressive force.
• Provides 2” to 4” of field adjustment in either direction.
• Spherical, self-aligning ball bushing at both ends of the strut allows for plus or minus 5 degrees of angular motion or misalignment. Bushings are coated with a dry lubricant.
• Can be installed in any spatial orientation.
• Positive control of piping systems are allowed by tight-fitting connections.
• Finished with standard primer paint or hot dip galvanizing for corrosive conditions.

HOW TO SIZE:
1. Select size consistent with maximum load to be restrained.
2. Determine the distance from structural steel to center of pipe and subtract from it the pipe clamp take-out and the rear bracket (dimension A) for size selected. This will give the required C-to-C dimension. Make sure that the C-to-C dimension listed for the size selected is within the specified minimum and maximum.
3. Determine the W dimension by subtracting the quantity (2 x dimension F) from the C-to-C dimension.

ORDERING: Specify figure number, assembly size, name, C-to-C dimension and option number (if other than standard configuration is required) or nominal pipe size or special O.D. The rear bracket assembly may be ordered separately.

INSTALLATION: Sway strut assemblies are shipped assembled. Securely fasten bracket to structure. Attach strut rod to end bracket, make necessary adjustment in overall length, and fasten clamp to pipe. This assembly is locked by tightening the hex nuts against the extension piece.

NOTE: Rods should be visible in the sight holes at each end of the strut to assure proper thread engagement. Special lengths are available upon request.

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