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238 Escoe: Piping and Pipeline Assessment Guide

Variable Springs

Variable springs are used where a variation in piping loads can be tolerated.
They are easier to adjust and more forgiving than constant springs, which
require more precision. They are also much cheaper than constant springs
and should be preferred in any piping design. As an example, consider the
configuration shown in Figure 5-1.
The spring in Figure 5-1 is attached to it with a rod and clevis. The
arrangement is known as a spring hanger. As shown the spring supports
the weight of the pipe and insulation. As the pipe heats up and expands
it moves upward (in this example). The amount of deflection () relates
to the amount of differential force transferred to the spring as

Fe  K, lbf (N) Eq. 5-1

where K  spring constant of spring, lb/in. (N/mm)

  deflection or displacement, in. (mm)

It is common practice to calibrate the spring in such a manner that when

the piping is at its operating (hot or cold) condition, the supporting force
of the spring is equal to the weight of the pipe. This means that when
the maximum variation in the supporting force occurs, the pipe is at its
lowest position compressing the spring. Depending on the support layout,

F = Wt
F = Wt + Fe

F = Wt
(a) F = Wt (b)
Cold position Hot condition
In this case, hot = operating condition, cold = down condition

Figure 5-1. The “cold” and “hot” operating positions of a variable spring support.