What is the forum's opinion on pipe support friction as it relates to the forces and moments generated on equipment (60 MW steam turbine)connection. Depending on the pipe configuration, frictional forces can either be a help or a hindrance to the manufacturer's F and M compliance requirements. I am aware of API 617 wherein it is stated that friction has to be either removed or substantially reduced.

My opinion is that frictional forces vary over time and are quite unpredictable thwerefore every opportunity should be used to minimize the effects of friction near equipment connections. Teflom on stainless steel, alemite grease fittings to inject grease between smooth sliding plates etc ...

You're right. Analysis should be performed with/without friction for the reasons you mentioned. But I guess that you will not find many people doing this.

You may also use rigid struts instead guides or stops.

Regards,

The use of regid struts will ensure as little gap as possible without creating a lot of friction at the same time.

Another benefit from using struts is that your rigger will be very happy with the length adjustment on the strut when aligning the pipe towards the turbine.