Guides added to control vibration must be checked to insure they do not what?

Guides added to control vibration must be checked to insure they do not what?

• A. Increase flow
• B. Restrict thermal expansion
• C. Corrode
• D. Vary temperature unexpectedly

Answer: (B)

Guides added to control vibration must allow the pipe to expand and contract with temperature. If these guides restrain thermal expansion, the piping becomes locked in place as it heats, producing high axial stresses and potential fatigue failures at supports, joints, or bends. Over time, this constraint can lead to cracks, misalignment, or leaks. Therefore, during inspection you check that the guides provide freedom for axial movement, with proper clearances or sliding interfaces, and that they do not bind the pipe as it expands or contracts. The goal is to keep vibration under control without introducing restraint to thermal growth.

Guides added to control vibration must allow the pipe to expand and contract with temperature. If these guides restrain thermal expansion, the piping becomes locked in place as it heats, producing high axial stresses and potential fatigue failures at supports, joints, or bends. Over time, this constraint can lead to cracks, misalignment, or leaks. Therefore, during inspection you check that the guides provide freedom for axial movement, with proper clearances or sliding interfaces, and that they do not bind the pipe as it expands or contracts. The goal is to keep vibration under control without introducing restraint to thermal growth.