Pipe supports are classified as either insulated (or cold-insulated) or uninsulated. Uninsulated supports are simply called "supports" and are used for pipes at normal temperatures.
Insulated (or cold-insulated) supports are called "pipe shoes." Regardless of insulation type, pipe supports can be categorized as sliding, fixed, or guided. The type chosen remains the same; only the connection between the pipe support and the steel structure or bracket changes.
Sliding and guided pipe supports typically use PTFE plates for sliding friction against each other, or stainless steel plates for sliding friction against PTFE plates, to reduce the coefficient of friction and decrease the restraining stress on the pipe from deformation or displacement, while also minimizing relative displacement between the pipe support and the pipe.
