Spring hanger

Spring Hangers: Keeping Pipes Flexible in the Oil & Gas Industry

In the demanding environment of oil and gas operations, pipelines are constantly subjected to various stresses. These stresses arise from temperature fluctuations, pressure changes, and even seismic activity. To ensure the integrity and longevity of these pipelines, specialized components are employed, and among them, spring hangers play a crucial role.

Understanding Spring Hangers

Spring hangers are a type of pipe hanger that utilizes a coil spring to absorb movement within a pipe. This movement, known as thermal expansion and contraction, occurs due to temperature changes. As the temperature rises, the pipe expands, and as it cools down, it contracts.

How Spring Hangers Work

The spring within the hanger provides a controlled and adjustable resistance to this movement. When the pipe expands, the spring stretches, absorbing the extra length. Conversely, when the pipe contracts, the spring compresses, accommodating the reduction in length. This dynamic interplay allows the pipe to move freely while maintaining a secure connection to the support structure.

Benefits of Using Spring Hangers

• Reduced Stress on Pipelines: By accommodating thermal expansion and contraction, spring hangers significantly reduce the stress on the pipeline itself. This minimizes the risk of fatigue and potential failure.
• Increased Pipeline Life: The ability to absorb movement prevents strain on welds and other critical components, contributing to a longer service life for the pipeline.
• Reduced Noise and Vibration: Spring hangers dampen vibrations caused by fluctuating pressure and temperature, resulting in a quieter and smoother operation.
• Easy Adjustment: The spring tension can be easily adjusted to match the specific load and movement requirements of the pipeline.

Applications in Oil & Gas

Spring hangers find widespread use in oil and gas operations, including:

• Pipelines transporting crude oil, natural gas, and refined products
• Process piping in refineries and processing plants
• Gas and oil gathering systems
• Offshore platforms and subsea pipelines

Considerations for Spring Hanger Selection

When selecting spring hangers for a specific application, several factors need to be considered:

• Pipe size and weight
• Operating temperature range
• Expected movement and load
• Environmental conditions
• Material compatibility

By carefully considering these factors, engineers can select the most appropriate spring hangers for optimal performance and safety in oil and gas operations.

Conclusion

Spring hangers are an essential component in ensuring the safe and reliable operation of pipelines in the oil and gas industry. By absorbing movement and reducing stress, these innovative hangers contribute to increased pipeline longevity, reduced downtime, and improved safety. Their versatility and ease of adjustment make them a valuable asset in various applications, contributing to the smooth functioning of these vital infrastructure networks.