Is there a minimum clearance requirement in NFPA 13 between structural steel and steel sprinkler pipe?
Area is not subject to earthquakes and the structural engineer want to strap the pipe directly to the steel like CPVC is strapped to wood. I've always been of the understanding that steel pipe must be hung, strapped to Unistrut attached to the structure, or supported on a trapeze, but I can't find where in 13 (if it exists) that says I can't use a strap. Obviously the fittings/couplings will prevent the pipe itself from contacting the steel. Trying to get the pipes as tight as possible to the sloped structural members and even using 1-5/8" unistrut with pipe clamps is getting pushback. Sent in anonymously for discussion. Click Title to View | Submit Your Question | Subscribe
8 Comments
Pete H
2/22/2024 07:41:37 am
No required clearance as far as I know between steel and sprinkler pipe.
Reply
Dan Wilder
2/22/2024 08:02:22 am
If there are no seismic considerations, technically no.
Reply
James Art, FPE
2/28/2024 11:53:59 am
Mutt and Jeff means a couple of things:
Reply
Glenn Berger
2/22/2024 08:13:12 am
Clearances between sprinklers and obstructions are covered in NFPA 13. Clearances between piping and structural members are not specifically stated.
Reply
Anthony
2/22/2024 08:15:20 am
there is no requirement. I've designed systems that require the pipe to be "strapped" to the bottom of beams for spacing concerns.
Reply
Michael
2/26/2024 11:12:41 am
In this case I would recommend some type of neoprene pad or similar between the pipe and steel.
Reply
Dave
2/22/2024 11:32:48 am
Clearance requirements are partly based on whether or not the piping will move independently from the structure. For horizontal piping, NFPA 13 requires 2 inches clearance from structural members which are "not penetrated or used, collectively or independently, to support the piping"
Reply
RYAN HINSON
2/22/2024 01:01:39 pm
It should be noted that NFPA 13 (2019) Section 18.4.9 only applies where seismic protection is required. The original post indicates that this is not the case.
Reply
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