How is the weight of the water-filled pipe accounted for in support designs?

The correct approach to accounting for the weight of water-filled pipes in support designs is to consider it as part of the hangers' design criteria plus any additional weight. This includes the weight of the pipe itself, the water inside it, and any other components that will be attached to the system.

By incorporating the weight of the water along with other factors, designers ensure that the hangers and supports can adequately handle not just the static load of the piping system but also any dynamic loads that may occur during operation. This comprehensive evaluation is crucial for the safety and reliability of the sprinkler system, as it prevents potential failures or structural issues that could arise from under-designed supports.

This method ensures that the entire system remains stable under normal conditions and is capable of withstanding additional stresses that might occur, for example, during activation of the sprinkler system or if there is a sudden movement or impact. Such foresight in the design process ultimately contributes to the safety and efficiency of fire protection systems.