Duct hanging systems are composed of three elements: the attachment to the building/structure, the hanger itself, and the attachment to the duct which bears the weight of the duct and the material inside it. All three of these elements are crucial to the efficiency and production output of your facility. Below you will find the most important items to consider when hanging your industrial duct.
- When choosing the method with which you hang your duct in an industrial environment consideration must be given to the fact that vibrations may be present throughout the structures.
- While the building structure may be designed to support the duct system, the designer is cautioned to check the structural capacity of the building to carry additional loading, in addition to loads attributable to wind, ice and snow, or seismic activity of the area.
- Selection of the hanging system and technique should not be taken lightly, as it not only involves a significant portion of the duct erection labor, but also because an inadequate hanging system can be problematic. Failure of one hanger can result in a cascading effect that may result in failure of other hangers in the system.
- Selection of the hangers should take into account the structural adequacy of the area, the building structure, the skill and ability of the installers, the availability of tooling, and the recommendations of the fastener manufacturer. Ultimately, it is the installation contractor’s responsibility and choice, subject to the approval of the owner or his construction manager.
- Duct supports should be designed to carry all loads, such that no load is placed on the existing equipment.
- Systems designed for industrial dust and mist applications may be subject to the accumulation of material inside of the duct, requiring that the duct support system include an allowance for supporting a 50% fill of the mist or dust particulate settling inside of the duct.
- Duct support systems for high temperature applications must be designed to not only support the duct system, but also to allow the free movement of duct as it expands or contracts due to variations in temperature.
- Depending on the geographical area where the duct system is being installed, the duct designer and installation contractor may be required to consider seismic bracing requirements. Designers and contractors should investigate local building codes for these requirements.
As you can tell, there are many considerations when hanging industrial duct. Using Strut Duct Hangers in your installation can assist you in doing it the right way.