Fasteners not only ensure the stability of the piping system but also contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of the setup. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of fasteners commonly used for pipes, their applications, and some tips for selecting the best one for your needs.
What is Fastener?
A fastener is a hardware device used to join or secure two or more components together. Fasteners come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, each designed for specific applications and materials. They play a crucial role in numerous industries, including construction, automotive, aerospace, and electronics.
Fastener Used in Securing Pipe
Fasteners used to securing pipe include U-bolts, pipe clamps, Ty-Raps, hasps, nailing clips, locking fasteners, and setscrews each offer unique benefits for maintaining pipe security.
Here is a detailed overview of these fasteners:
U-Bolt
U-bolts are essential fasteners shaped like the letter “U,” featuring two threaded ends. They are used to secure pipes to surfaces or mounting brackets. U-bolts are versatile and suitable for both vertical and horizontal pipe support, commonly found in plumbing and industrial applications.
When to Use:
- When you need a robust and adjustable method to support pipes.
- When mounting pipes to a flat surface.
- For heavy-duty applications or varying pipe sizes.
Pipe Clamp
Pipe clamps are versatile fasteners designed to encircle and secure pipes against walls or other surfaces. Available in single or double-bolt versions, they are effective for managing pipe alignment and reducing vibrations. Pipe clamps are widely used in residential and commercial plumbing.
When to Use:
- When securing pipes in place and minimizing movement.
- For both light and heavy-duty applications.
- When alignment and vibration reduction are needed.
Ty-Rap (Cable Tie)
Ty-Raps, also known as cable ties, offer a flexible and easy-to-install solution for bundling and securing pipes. These plastic fasteners are adjustable and ideal for a variety of applications where a simple, secure hold is required.
When to Use:
- When you need a quick and adjustable method for bundling pipes.
- For lighter applications.
- When flexibility and ease of installation are important.
Hasps
Hasps are locking devices used to secure pipes or equipment. Typically used with a padlock, hasps provide an added layer of security and are useful in preventing unauthorized access to pipe systems.
When to Use:
- When securing pipes or equipment with added security.
- In restricted or high-security areas.
- To prevent unauthorized access.
Nailing Clips
Nailing clips are used to attach pipes to wooden surfaces. Secured with nails or screws, these clips offer a straightforward method for keeping pipes in place during construction or maintenance.
When to Use:
- When attaching pipes to wooden surfaces.
- During construction or renovation projects.
- For simple and effective pipe stability.
Locking Fasteners
Locking fasteners, such as locknuts or lock washers, are designed to prevent pipes from loosening due to vibrations or movement. These fasteners are crucial in environments with high mechanical stress to ensure long-term stability.
When to Use:
- In high-vibration environments.
- Where there is a risk of pipes loosening over time.
- For maintaining secure and stable connections in demanding conditions.
Setscrew
Setscrews, or set screws, are used to secure pipes by being screwed into a threaded hole and applying pressure against the pipe. They are commonly used in mechanical and plumbing applications to prevent rotation and ensure a tight fit.
When to Use:
- When securing pipes in place to prevent rotational movement.
- In mechanical and plumbing applications.
- When precise and reliable fastening is required.
Applications of Pipe Securing Fasteners
Pipe securing fasteners are used in a wide range of applications, including:
- Industrial piping systems: In factories and plants, pipes carrying various fluids need to be securely fastened to prevent leaks and ensure smooth operation.
- Plumbing systems: In residential and commercial buildings, pipes carrying water and gas require secure connections to walls and floors.
- HVAC systems: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems rely on securely fastened pipes to distribute conditioned air throughout buildings.
- Oil and gas pipelines: In oil and gas industries, long pipelines spanning vast distances must be securely anchored to the ground to withstand environmental forces.
Pipeline Fixing System Composition
The system primarily consists of the following key components:
- Bracket: Fixed to walls/supports, connects pipes & profiles.
- Elongated Profile: Links bracket & pipes, allowing for extension.
- Connecting Part: Joins bracket & profile securely.
- Fixing Mechanism: Locks connecting part in place.
Working Principle of the Pipeline Fixing System
The pipeline fixing system works by first securely mounting brackets to walls or supports, then connecting elongated profiles to the brackets with easy-to-install fittings. Adjustments are made to ensure proper alignment, followed by tightening mechanisms to lock everything in place. Finally, pipes are fixed to the profiles using clamps or bolts, securing them firmly to the wall or support structure.
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Conclusion
By understanding the different types of fasteners and their applications, you can make informed choices that ensure a reliable and long-lasting installation. Whether you’re working on a home plumbing project or a large-scale industrial setup, the right fastener will make all the difference.
FAQ
Clamps, bolts (high tensile or mild steel), nuts, screws, washers, studs, and pins are commonly used to secure pipes. Each type provides different levels of support and stability based on the application.
Screws are a common example of a fastener. They are used to join materials together by creating a threaded connection that provides a strong and secure hold.
Nails are not considered a fastener. While they are used in similar applications to secure materials, nails do not have the threading that characterizes most fasteners.
Rivets, welds, adhesives, clinching, and self-piercing rivets are examples of permanent fasteners. Rivets and self-piercing rivets join materials by deformation, welds melt materials together, adhesives create strong bonds, and clinching presses metals together without additional fasteners.
Catalog: CNC Machining Guide
This article was written by engineers from the BOYI team. Fuquan Chen is a professional engineer and technical expert with 20 years of experience in rapid prototyping, mold manufacturing, and plastic injection molding.
