How to Use a Cable for a Seismic Brace Pipe

Seismic support solutions involve braces, support cables and a host of other solutions in an attempt to keep utility pipes and structures from experiencing excessive earthquake cracking and failures. Often, support framing and support cables are used in conjunction to enhance each others' support qualities. Making effective use of this tandem is critical in meeting earthquake code and providing solid structural support to any pipes in a structure that demands additional seismic support.

Pre-stretched cable supports
Anti-sway pipe clamps
Impact drill
3/4-inch masonry bit
Concrete expansion anchors
Ratchet and socket

Instructions

- 1
  Identify two anchor points in the concrete that offset one another. Remember that support cables are only tensioned in one direction, necessitating two cables on opposing sides of the pipe or pipe bracket to maintain tension at all times.
- 2
  Wrap the pipe clamp around the pipe(s) that require support. Fasten the clamps together to tighten the bolts on the clamp, tightening it fully against the pipe.
- 3
  Slide the lag bolt through the loop on the pre-stretched cable. Slide the bolt through the receiving hole on the support beam's clip.
- 4
  Attach the receiving nut under the bracket. Drive the nut over the threads on the bolt until tight.
- 5
  Drill two 3/4-inch holes in the concrete, far enough away from the pipe clamp to maintain cable tension. Ensure the holes are 1/4 to 1/2 inch longer than the expansion sleeve.
- 6
  Slide the bolts through each loop on the concrete support end of each cable. Hand-tighten each bolt.
- 7
  Tighten each bolt with the ratchet and appropriate socket, alternating from bolt to bolt after four to five turns each. This helps to maintain tension equally between both cables until both are secured.

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Earthquake Damage