From factory to installation, insulated pipes use two different brackets-transport brackets and installation brackets. Although the names are similar, their functions are completely different.
The purpose of transport supports is to secure pipelines during transportation and storage, preventing pipes from shaking, shifting, or colliding with each other on the vehicle. Insulation pipes are cylindrical; if not fixed on the transport vehicle, they may roll during sudden braking or turns, causing damage to the outer protective pipe or posing safety risks to personnel. Transport supports are usually fixed devices installed on vehicles, including support bases, pads, fixing clamps, and limiting blocks, which clamp the pipe and limit its axial and vertical displacement. The transport support is removed after the pipeline arrives at the construction site.
Mounting brackets are used during pipeline operation. When heated, insulation pipes elongate axially and require brackets to guide and restrain this displacement. Mounting brackets are divided into sliding brackets and fixed brackets. Sliding brackets allow pipelines to slide freely when heated, releasing thermal stress. For insulated pipelines, sliding brackets usually require insulation treatment-using low thermal conductivity materials like wood as pipe supports to reduce heat transfer from the pipe to the bracket and dissipate. Fixed brackets firmly anchor the pipeline and bear the axial thrust of the pipe.
Another difference between the two lies in their usage scenarios. Transport supports are temporary; once the pipeline is installed, they are no longer needed. Installation supports are permanent and have the same lifespan as the pipeline. If the transport supports are damaged, they can be replaced, but if installed properly, they affect the safety of the entire pipeline.
The brackets in the pipe-in-pipe process are a different matter-they are the supports used during production to ensure the concentricity between the steel pipe and the outer protective pipe, and are neither transportation nor installation brackets. The three types of supports have different functions and should not be confused.