Test rig development for load test of pipe saddle support

Abstract

Pipe saddle support is a structure commonly used to support horizontal steel pipe. It prevents direct contact between the pipe and the support. Pipe saddle support can experience displacement due to pipe movement and insufficient stress analysis. Given these concerns, conducting a load test is essential to determine the stress on pipe saddle supports. However, a universal testing machine (UTM) is not suitable for this purpose due to the size limitation. Therefore, this study proposed a test rig setup for the pipe saddle support load test. The test rig consists of a portal frame secured by an underground locking system featuring a strong floor. Additionally, an actual pipe is utilized to replicate actual loading conditions on the pipe saddle support. The applied load is measured using a load cell, with a custom-designed bracket to ensure precise load transfer. Finally, the pipe saddle support specimen is bolted to a base support to maintain stability during the load test. Stress analysis using finite element analysis (FEA) demonstrated that the test rig is suitable for conducting load tests on the specimens with a maximum force of 80 kN. FEA confirmed that the test rig operates within a safety factor of 1.3.