Main anchors are required in piping systems with unrestrained bellows compensator at:
(a) Flow direction changes
(b) Transitions between different-sized expansion joints in straight runs
(c) Branch connections with unrestrained expansion joints
(d) Locations with shut-off/pressure-reducing valves between two expansion joints
Main anchors must withstand:
(a) Full pressure thrust + fluid force
(b) Forces/moments for rated expansion joint deflection
(c) Friction from guides/directional anchors
(a) For critical applications, evaluate
(b) Dead weight (pipe, fittings, insulation, fluid)
(c) External loads (wind, pipe bending, etc.)