Draft:Wraparound brackets

• Comment: Commercial sites offering products and services are not reliable sources nor are blogs. Specifications are primary sources so can be used to establish notability. Also, most of this is unsourced so appears to be original research which is not allowed. It is clear wraparound brackets exist but in order to meet Wikipedia's notability guidelines reputable secondary sources that have written in-depth about the brackets are needed. S0091 (talk) 19:29, 28 August 2024 (UTC)

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Wraparound brackets are hardware components designed to support and secure pipes, tubes, or other cylindrical objects. They are characterized by their design, which encircles the object they support, providing stability and preventing movement or displacement.

Design and functionality

• Encircling Design: Wraparound brackets typically have a U-shaped or semi-circular design that wraps around the pipe or object.
• Mounting: They are usually mounted to a surface using bolts or screws, with the pipe or object held in place by the bracket's encompassing shape.
• Adjustment: Some wraparound brackets come with adjustable features to accommodate different pipe sizes or to allow for thermal expansion.

History

The concept of supporting and securing structural elements has existed since ancient times. Early civilizations used basic forms of supports and brackets made from wood, stone, and iron to stabilize building elements and tools. However, these early supports were not specifically designed as "wraparound" brackets but served similar purposes.

With the onset of the Industrial Revolution, there was a significant increase in the use of metal for construction and machinery. This period saw the development of more specialized metal supports and brackets. The need for robust and reliable support systems became critical as factories, railways, and other infrastructure projects expanded.

In the 19th Century, advances in metallurgy and manufacturing techniques led to the creation of more durable and precise metal brackets. These early brackets were primarily used to support pipes, machinery, and structural elements in factories and industrial settings.

20th century: modernization and standardization

• Early 20th Century:
  • As industries grew, so did the complexity of mechanical systems. The use of wraparound brackets became more prevalent in both industrial and domestic applications. These brackets began to be standardized to accommodate various sizes of pipes and equipment. Innovations in materials, such as galvanized steel and coatings, improved their durability and resistance to corrosion.
• Mid to Late 20th Century:

The development of new materials, including PVC coatings and advanced galvanization techniques, enhanced the performance of wraparound brackets. PVC-coated brackets were introduced to provide additional protection against environmental factors, making them suitable for use in more challenging conditions.

21st century: technological advances and application expansion

The 21st century has seen a focus on environmental sustainability and improved performance of hardware components. Wraparound brackets have benefited from advancements in manufacturing technologies and materials. Innovations include the use of high-strength composites and environmentally friendly coatings.

Today, wraparound brackets are used in a wide range of applications, from residential plumbing and HVAC systems to complex industrial setups. They are available in various materials and coatings, including stainless steel, plastic, and advanced alloys. Modern manufacturing techniques allow for custom designs and enhanced performance features.

Uses

Industrial uses

1. Piping Systems: In industrial settings, wraparound brackets are used to secure piping systems in places such as chemical plants, oil refineries, and manufacturing facilities. They ensure that pipes remain aligned and supported, even under high pressure or temperature variations.
2. HVAC Systems: They are used to support and stabilize ductwork and other components in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
3. Structural Supports: Wraparound brackets provide support for structural beams and conduits in large-scale construction projects.

Domestic uses

1. Plumbing: In residential plumbing systems, wraparound brackets are used to secure water pipes and prevent them from moving or vibrating.
2. Home HVAC: They are used to support ductwork and piping in home heating and cooling systems.
3. Shelving and Racks: Wraparound brackets are used to support shelves and racks in various household storage solutions.

Examples of applications

• Industrial Application: In a chemical plant, wraparound brackets might be used to secure large-diameter pipes that transport corrosive fluids. The brackets would ensure that the pipes are firmly held in place and reduce the risk of leaks or pipe movement.
• Domestic Application: In a residential heating system, wraparound brackets could be used to mount a radiator or secure exposed pipes along a wall, preventing them from shifting and ensuring proper alignment.

Bracket types

1. PVC Coated Brackets:

• Material: PVC-coated brackets are typically made from metal (often steel) and coated with a layer of polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
• Features:
  • Corrosion Resistance: The PVC coating provides a layer of protection against corrosion, making these brackets suitable for use in damp or corrosive environments.
  • Impact Resistance: The coating also offers some resistance to impacts and abrasion.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: PVC-coated brackets often have a smoother and more finished appearance, which can be advantageous in visible applications.
• Applications:
  • Domestic Plumbing: Used to secure pipes in residential settings where corrosion resistance is required.
  • Outdoor Use: Suitable for outdoor installations where exposure to the elements could cause metal parts to rust.
  • HVAC Systems: Used in environments where humidity or chemical exposure could lead to corrosion.

2. Galvanized Brackets:

• Material: Galvanized brackets are made from metal (usually steel) and coated with a layer of zinc through a galvanization process.
• Features:
  • Corrosion Protection: The zinc coating provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion, making these brackets ideal for outdoor and industrial applications.
  • Durability: Galvanized brackets are known for their durability and long service life, even in harsh environments.
  • Strength: The metal core of galvanized brackets provides high strength and load-bearing capacity.
• Applications:
  • Construction: Used in building construction to support structural elements and piping.
  • Outdoor Installations: Ideal for securing pipes and other components in outdoor or exposed environments where they may be subjected to rain or other weather conditions.
  • Industrial Settings: Common in factories and warehouses where heavy-duty support is required.