What is the purpose of a pipe hanger?

The purpose of a pipe hanger is primarily to support and secure piping systems. This support is essential for maintaining the integrity and stability of the piping installation. By securely fastening pipes at designated intervals, hangers prevent sagging and movement that could lead to stress on the joints and connections, potential leaks, or even failure of the system.

In addition to providing vertical and horizontal support, hangers can also help distribute the load of the piping system, ensuring that the weight is evenly shared across the structure it is attached to. This is particularly important in large industrial or commercial applications where the pipes can carry significant weight due to fluid contents or thermal expansion.

While other options, like connecting different materials, increasing fluid pressure, or allowing for thermal expansion, are important aspects of pipe systems, they do not accurately describe the primary function of a pipe hanger. Pipe hangers focus specifically on the support and stability of the piping system itself.