The hanging rod supporting a pipe of 2 inches NPS or smaller must be at least what diameter?

For pipes of 2 inches Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) or smaller, the requirements for hanging rods are generally determined by industry standards that ensure safety and stability. A hanging rod with a diameter of at least 3/8 inch is specifically recommended because it provides the necessary strength and rigidity to properly support the weight of the pipe and any contents within it, especially considering the potential for dynamic loads, vibrations, and thermal expansion that can occur in piping systems.

Selecting a rod diameter that is too small can lead to structural failure due to insufficient load-bearing capacity, which poses a risk not only to the piping system but also to personnel and equipment in the vicinity. Therefore, the 3/8 inch minimum diameter is a critical standard designed to enhance safety and reliability in pipe support systems.