Supports and Anchors [49 CFR 192.161]

(A)A. Each pipeline and its associated equipment must have enough anchors or supports to: [49 CFR 192.161(a)]#

(1)1. prevent undue strain on connected equipment; [49 CFR 192.161(a)(1)]#

(2)2. resist longitudinal forces caused by a bend or offset in the pipe; and [49 CFR 192.161(a)(2)]#

(3)3. prevent or damp out excessive vibration. [49 CFR 192.161(a)(3)]#

(B)B. Each exposed pipeline must have enough supports or anchors to protect the exposed pipe joints from the maximum end force caused by internal pressure and any additional forces caused by temperature expansion or contraction or by the weight of the pipe and its contents. [49 CFR 192.161(b)]#

(C)C. Each support or anchor on an exposed pipeline must be made of durable, noncombustible material and must be designed and installed as follows. [49 CFR 192.161(c)]#

(1)1. Free expansion and contraction of the pipeline between supports or anchors may not be restricted. [49 CFR 192.161(c)(1)]#

(2)2. Provision must be made for the service conditions involved. [49 CFR 192.161(c)(2)]#

(3)3. Movement of the pipeline may not cause disengagement of the support equipment. [49 CFR 192.161(c)(3)]#

(D)D. Each support on an exposed pipeline operated at a stress level of 50 percent or more of SMYS must comply with the following. [49 CFR 192.161(d)]#

(1)1. A structural support may not be welded directly to the pipe. [49 CFR 192.161(d)(1)]#

(2)2. The support must be provided by a member that completely encircles the pipe. [49 CFR 192.161(d)(2)]#

(3)3. If an encircling member is welded to a pipe, the weld must be continuous and cover the entire circumference. [49 CFR 192.161(d)(3)]#

(E)E. Each underground pipeline that is connected to a relatively unyielding line or other fixed object must have enough flexibility to provide for possible movement, or it must have an anchor that will limit the movement of the pipeline. [49 CFR 192.161(e)]#

(F)F. Except for offshore pipelines, each underground pipeline that is being connected to new branches must have a firm foundation for both the header and the branch to prevent detrimental lateral and vertical movement. [49 CFR 192.161(f)]#

AUTHORITY NOTE: Promulgated in accordance with R.S. 30:501 et seq.#

HISTORICAL NOTE: Promulgated by the Department of Natural Resources, Office of Conservation, LR 9:224 (April 1983), amended LR 10:516 (July 1984), LR 30:1234 (June 2004).#