Type 40 Shield Criteria Explained

July 4, 2024·4 min
Carrie PowersCarrie Powers

Ensuring the integrity and efficiency of industrial piping systems is paramount in various industries—from HVAC systems to refrigeration lines.

And one of the most important elements is Type 40 shield, which helps maintain the insulation integrity and structural stability of these piping systems.

Let’s take a look at the criteria, benefits, materials, and solutions related to Type 40 shields, with a focus on Buckaroos® products.

Understanding Type 40 Shields and Their Standards

Type 40 shields are designed to prevent the crushing of insulation at pipe support points, and they play a crucial role in distributing load capacity.

  • Type 40 shields are governed by the Manufacturers Standardization Society (MSS) SP-58 and SP-69 standards.
  • The standards are essential for ensuring the safety and performance of industrial piping systems by specifying the required materials, manufacturing processes, and installation guidelines for Type 40 shields.

MSS SP-58 standards outline the design, fabrication, and installation of pipe hangers and supports, while SP-69 provides detailed guidelines on the selection and application of these components to ensure reliable performance under various operating conditions.​

Materials, Manufacturing, and Key Benefits

an image of a chart comparing the material, corrosion resistance, temprature range, compliance standards, and typical applications of type 40 shield

Although there are multiple materials used to create Type 40 shields, the most common are galvanized steel, carbon steel, or stainless steel—all of which have their own unique benefits: 

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability, which makes it suitable for a wide range of environments. It also meets the ASTM A653 standard, which specifies requirements for the zinc coating on steel sheets to enhance corrosion protection.

Carbon Steel

Known for its strength and affordability, carbon steel is often used in applications where cost-effectiveness is a priority. The material’s robustness makes it ideal for high-stress environments and it can accommodate temperatures ranging from -20°F to 650°F.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel provides superior resistance to corrosion and high temperatures, which makes it ideal for demanding applications. Stainless steel type 40 shields conform to ASTM standards and help ensure high performance in harsh conditions, with temperatures ranging from -320°F to1500°F.

Key Benefits

There are also several benefits of using type 40 shields which we will discuss further below:

Improved Load Distribution

Type 40 shields evenly distribute the load across the pipe to prevent localized stress and potential damage. This is crucial in maintaining the structural integrity of the piping system, especially in high-stress applications.

Protection Against Insulation Damage

By preventing the crushing of insulation, these shields maintain the system's thermal efficiency and structural integrity. This is particularly important in systems where insulation failure can lead to significant energy loss and increased operational costs.

Versatility

Type 40 shields are suitable for various applications, including HVAC systems, refrigeration lines, and hot water heating systems. Their compliance with MSS SP-58 and SP-69 standards ensures they can be reliably used in a wide range of industrial settings​​.

Buckaroos® Type 40 Shield Solutions

Buckaroos® is a leader in providing high-quality pipe insulation supports, including Type 40 shields. Our 58 Series Saddles are designed to meet the stringent MSS SP-58/69 standards, and they are formed from G-90 galvanized steel for long-term rust protection—available in various gauges and sizes to fit different pipe diameters.

Here’s some more information about our 58 Series Saddles:

Compliance with MSS Standards

Our 58 Series Saddles ensure reliability and safety in industrial applications because they apply strict adherence to these standards and guarantee that Buckaroos® products provide consistent and reliable performance.

Manufacturing Tolerances

Precise tolerances provide a perfect fit to enhance ease of installation and performance. This precision is critical in ensuring that the shields perform as expected under various operational conditions.

Rust Protection

They provide long-term durability in corrosive environments. The G-90 galvanized steel used in these saddles offers superior protection against corrosion to extend the lifespan of the product​​.

By adhering to these rigorous standards and employing superior materials, Buckaroos® ensures that their Type 40 shield solutions provide unmatched reliability and performance for a wide array of industrial piping applications.

Additional Buckaroos® Products

However, here at Buckaroos®, we offer a range of other products that complement Type 40 shields and enhance the overall effectiveness of pipe insulation systems.

For example, we have:

Tru-Balance™ Insulated Pipe Supports

Tru-Balance  pre-insulated saddle systems are ideal for commercial piping systems, and provide excellent thermal performance and easy installation.

CoolDry™ Insulated Pipe Supports

Designed for both cold and hot piping systems, CoolDry™ supports provide  superior condensation control and resistance to mold and mildew. They can handle temperatures from -290°F to +250°F and are suitable for use in schools, hospitals, offices, and industrial plants.

Polyisocyanurate Pipe Supports

Known for their high compressive strength and thermal efficiency, polyisocyanurate pipe supports are ideal for chilled water and refrigeration lines. They maintain system integrity by preventing thermal bridging and condensation issues.

Explore Buckaroos® Range of Pipe Insulation Supports

Buckaroos® can ensure the integrity and efficiency of your piping systems.

If you’re interested in learning more about our piping products, explore our extensive collection of pipe insulation supports.

For more details and personalized assistance, contact us today.

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Carrie Powers

Carrie channels her passion for innovative solutions in the construction industry for Buckaroos. With a deep understanding of Buckaroos' leading insulated pipe support systems and insulation protection shields, Carrie ensures that building owners, engineers, and installers are well-equipped with the best tools and products. Her dedication to digital transformation and customer engagement helps Buckaroos maintain its reputation as a trusted resource for professional insulators across North America and Canada.

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