When supporting piping systems, choosing the right type of hanger is essential for stability, alignment, and long-term performance. Two commonly used pipe support components are the clevis hanger and the swivel hanger. While they may look similar at first glance, they serve different purposes in piping installation and operation.
What Is a Clevis Hanger?
A clevis hanger is a rigid pipe support designed to hold a pipe from above using a U-shaped yoke and a pin or bolt. It is one of the most widely used supports for horizontal piping systems.
Clevis hangers provide strong, fixed vertical support while still allowing a limited amount of adjustment during installation. Because of their simple and sturdy design, they are commonly used in general-purpose piping applications where the pipe alignment is stable and predictable.
What Is a Swivel Hanger?
A swivel hanger is a type of pipe support that includes a pivoting or swiveling connection. This added flexibility allows the hanger to self-align with the pipe or accommodate minor structural movement.
Unlike a standard clevis hanger, the swivel mechanism enables angular adjustment, making it easier to achieve proper alignment during installation. It is especially useful in situations where piping systems may shift slightly or where installation tolerances are tighter.
Main Difference
The key difference between the two lies in flexibility:
- Clevis hanger: A fixed-style support that holds the pipe in a stable, straight alignment. It is best suited for standard horizontal piping systems where no significant movement or angle adjustment is required.
- Swivel hanger: A more flexible support that includes a rotating or pivoting joint, allowing the pipe to align more easily with structural movement or installation variations.
Practical Applications
- Use a clevis hanger when working with straightforward horizontal pipe runs that require strong, economical, and reliable vertical support.
- Use a swivel hanger when pipe alignment, angle variations, or structural movement makes a flexible connection necessary. It is particularly helpful in systems where installation conditions are not perfectly uniform.
Simple Way to Remember
A simple way to distinguish them is:
- A clevis hanger holds the pipe firmly in place.
- A swivel hanger holds the pipe while also allowing it to align and adjust more freely
