In a recent project, I encountered a requirement from the engineers to attach 6" 304 stainless steel angle legs to the exterior of a 36" ductile iron pipe. This vertical pipe will be supported by these legs, which are designed to "cradle" it at four distinct points. Although there will be a hanger mounted above these legs, the welds need to be robust due to the substantial weight they will bear. While we have successfully fabricated custom fittings using carbon steel and ductile iron, we have yet to work with stainless steel. Any insights or recommendations would be greatly appreciated, especially since pre-heating the pipe is not a viable option due to its cement lining.

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By

G.S.Crisi

Date

10-07- 20:15

Edited

10-07- 23:53

Welding stainless steel to ductile iron poses certain challenges, particularly when the integrity of the welds is crucial for supporting substantial weight. Given that pre-heating is off the table, I recommend a bolted design. Create stainless steel angles welded to suitable clamps encircling the pipe, with these clamps fastened together. Your company likely has access to a pipe support specialist who can utilize an engineering handbook and pipe supports catalog to devise an effective support system.

Employing a bolted method rather than a welded jig is advisable to mitigate complexities.

A word of caution: since this is part of a bid, note in your proposal that instead of the originally specified support, you are suggesting a more efficient alternative. This can provide you with a competitive edge.

Giovanni S. Crisi
Sao Paulo - Brazil

By

Eric Carroll

Date

10-08- 02:14

My approach entails using 309 filler followed by ni-55 for the welds. The pipe will be suspended with hangers above and will terminate 3 feet from the flooring. The legs will attach to a large 304 stainless steel plate on the tank's floor. This flanged pipe system means I view the leg arrangement more as locators than stable supports. The engineering team here has presented several nonsensical ideas, and while the general contractor has already rejected the clamp-type setup, I prefer to maintain a good rapport. Given the federal funding involved, it's vital to tread carefully with the egos present.

By

pipehead

Date

10-08- 01:18

What is the intended use of this pipe? Depending on its application, it may be prudent to reconsider the choice due to manufacturer specifications and warranty concerns. If it pertains to water applications, AWWA codes explicitly forbid welding on ductile iron, except for cad-welded cathodic installations. Regarding pre-heating, temperatures around 200°F are acceptable for mortar-lined steel pipes; however, I'd caution against exceeding 300°F.

By

Eric Carroll

Date

10-08- 02:18

This pipe serves as a fill tube for a large runoff water storage tank. It has open ends on both sides, and the legs will be affixed to a splash plate at the tank's base. We typically weld keeper rings to the spigot ends of our cut pipes.

By

pipehead

Date

10-08- 02:44

Given that this isn't a pressurized system, your setup should be sound. However, the total weight is considerable—approximately 6,200 lbs. Why use ductile iron? I suspect this decision relates to the need for cathodic protection. If that's the case, why not opt for epoxy-coated 36" steel? It could be more cost-effective, and if the mortar lining is essential, consider American spiral weld or Northwest Pipe Products.

By

Eric Carroll

Date

10-08- 03:15

I don't know the rationale behind using ductile iron, but all the pipeline work for this project employs ductile materials. Most nearby utility installations utilize ductile iron, as well as a mix of Price Bros. products and some plastics.

By

Solid Product Page

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Date

10-08- 03:47

That's rather unusual... Where are you located? Although you mentioned considering a "ring shelf" to distribute weight, have you thought about using a bell restraint to fasten the hangers?

By

Joseph P. Kane

Date

10-09- 16:38

For your protection, I would also advise against attempting this weld. Ensure you obtain engineer approval, as there won't be a procedural qualification in place. Even with the suggested combination of Ni-Rod/309, be mindful that this may not result in a structurally viable solution. Clamping offers a safer alternative.

By

Tommyjoking

Date

10-12- 03:29

It's wise to avoid integrating SS-Iron welds into your structure. Propose the use of clips with a bolted installation to eliminate complications.

By

G.S.Crisi

Date

10-14- 20:17

No viable solution to your conundrum has yet been provided by anyone, including myself. Hence, I propose this: Contact Grinell, a reputable provider of pipe supports and hangers based in Providence, RI. They are still operational, accessible via their website www.grinell.com. Explain your issue clearly and request their recommendations. Their assistance could prove invaluable.

By

Eric Carroll

Date

10-18- 00:04

We have already requested a clamp-type hanger, but the general contractor denied it. City projects involving federal funds require careful management of interpersonal relationships. If I imply that one engineer might lack understanding compared to another, it may jeopardize future collaborations. There is a noticeable disconnect between the teams I work with and those of many network participants here. Should I assert that the current approach is flawed, they would easily hire a different contractor. To navigate this, we modified our implementation plan. We'll create three 4"x1/2" flatbar rings matching the pipe's outer diameter. These rings will be welded following manufacturer guidelines, then the angles will be affixed to them using 309 filler. Finally, we'll re-coat the pipe, likely sparing us scrutiny since it lies within a massive concrete tank. Thanks for everyone's input.

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