RATEC pendulum supports brace pipelines via two articulated struts while allowing freedom of movement. They are typically used on risers, where the pipe clamp sits on brackets on the steel structure via the struts and compensates for thermal expansion, vibration and settlement. We design each pendulum support individually for your pipeline, in all common materials and, on request, also in an ATEX-compliant version.
Table of Contents
How pendulum supports work
A pipe clamp is mounted on the pipeline. From it, two struts run diagonally to brackets on the steel structure, on the wall or on the floor. Because the struts are articulated at both ends, they can swing: if the pipeline shifts, the struts follow the movement instead of blocking it. At the same time, they support the pipeline securely. The length of the struts allows the pipeline position to be precisely adjusted during installation.
When pendulum supports are the right choice
Pendulum supports are used wherever a pipeline needs to move but still must be securely supported. Typical cases are:
- Risers: Vertical pipelines expand in height when temperatures change. The struts compensate for this.
- Settlement: If a foundation or component settles, the support position shifts. Pendulum supports absorb this movement.
- Vibration: Operational movements are absorbed without creating stresses in the pipeline and steel structure.
Pendulum supports have proven their worth in industrial plants, power stations and pipeline construction.
Technical specifications
| Feature | Pendulum Supports |
|---|---|
| Function | flexible support, compensation for settlement |
| Principle | pipe clamp, two articulated struts, brackets |
| Connection | steel structure, wall or floor |
| Materials | all common materials, e.g. stainless steel, galvanised steel, aluminium, coated on request |
| Versions | ATEX, sound-insulating or vibration-damping on request |
| Dimensions | designed individually for each pipeline |
We design the strut length, brackets and pipe clamp to match your pipeline and the connection to the floor, wall or steel structure.
Part of a complete pipe support system
Pendulum supports work together with the other support points:
- Stainless steel pipe clamps with fixed point: define where the line expands from.
- Guide bearings: allow only longitudinal movement.
- Sliding bearings: allow movement in longitudinal and transverse directions.
- Damped pipe clamps: absorb forces from all directions and dampen vibrations.
What matters during design
- Pipeline: pipe type, diameter, insulation, weight.
- Movements: thermal expansion, vibration, expected settlement.
- Environment: corrosion, temperature, hazardous area.
- Connection: steel structure, wall or floor, available space for the struts.
Customized by RATEC
RATEC is at home in the bulk materials sector and manufactures in its own plant in Carinthia, certified to ISO 9001, EN 1090-1 and ISO 3834-2. Each pendulum support is custom-made for your pipeline; the photos on this page show examples from customer projects. You can find an overview of all designs under Pipe supports.
Planning the support of your pipeline?
Tell us your pipe diameter, pipeline layout, and operating conditions. We will get back to you with a specific proposal.