In a pipe rack, which feature provides permanent support for piping?

• A. Shoes
• B. Straps
• C. Clamps
• D. Welding supports

Answer: (A)

Permanent support is about a fixed, load-bearing element that stays in place to carry the pipe’s weight over the life of the installation. A pipe shoe is a fixed cradle attached to the rack that the pipe sits in, distributing the load into the structure and preventing vertical movement while allowing any needed expansion. Straps just secure the pipe and are typically used for temporary or non-load-bearing purposes. Clamps can hold pipes but aren’t always the primary load-bearing seat, and welding supports are temporary fixtures used during construction and removed afterward. So the pipe shoe provides the lasting, load-carrying support a pipe rack needs.