What Is a Pipe Roller—and Why Are They Helpful?

A pipe roller, also known as a pipe rack roller or rack roller, simplifies the process of moving and positioning pipes. They provide essential heavy-duty support and movement in demanding environments. For industries like construction, power generation, civil engineering, and infrastructure, the use of pipe rollers can mean the difference between a project running smoothly and facing significant delays. In this blog post, we will explore what pipe rollers are, how they function, and why they might be right for your job site.

What Are Pipe Rollers?

Pipe rollers are industrial tools designed to support and transport pipes across beams and other structures. They help guide pipes during installation, allowing for safe and efficient handling without direct contact with the ground. Some pipe rollers can be mounted onto I-beam flanges using adjustable clamps. Consequently, these are commonly known as beam clamp pipe rollers or roller beam clamps.

At LGH, we carry a range of pipe rigging rollers suitable for various applications, including both unidirectional and multidirectional rollers. These pipe rollers are constructed out of steel, with urethane-coated steel rollers and sealed bearings for smooth and controlled movement.

How Do Pipe Rollers Work?

Pipe rollers work by creating a rolling pathway that supports the weight of pipes and allows them to move horizontally or rotate as needed. The beam clamps secure the rollers to the beam flange. The rollers themselves bear the weight of the pipe, facilitating easy movement. Additionally, this system prevents ground contact, which is particularly beneficial in maintaining the cleanliness and integrity of the pipe.

Key components include:

• • Adjustable Beam Clamp: Attaches to beam flange securely, ensuring stability during pipe movement.
• • Urethane-Coated Rollers: Protect pipes from surface damage and provide smooth rolling.
• • Sealed Bearings: Ensure consistent, friction-reduced movement that minimizes wear.

Features of Pipe Rollers

• • Load Capacities: Pipe rollers can handle various load capacities to support different project needs. For instance, B&B’s 2110 model supports up to 2,500 lbs, while the 2125 model handles up to 10,000 lbs.
• • Pipe Diameter Range: LGH’s pipe rollers cater to pipes from as small as 2 inches to as large as 48 inches in diameter.
• • Modular Design: Multi-directional models allow for seamless maneuverability, including curved pulls.

Advantages of Using Pipe Rollers

1. Enhanced Safety
The use of heavy-duty pipe rollers reduces manual handling of pipes. As a result, this lowers the risk of workplace injuries. The rollers’ secure mounting and smooth motion also helps prevent sudden slips or misalignments.

2. Improved Efficiency
By facilitating the movement of pipes, pipe rollers accelerate project timelines. Whether it’s a power plant upgrade or a refinery pipeline installation, pipe rollers minimize the physical effort required to position pipes. In effect, this efficiency translates to reduced labor costs and higher productivity.

3. Versatility
Pipe rollers are suited for a variety of applications, from pipe transport and pipeline welding to pipe conveyor setups. Their adaptability means they can be used in different job site conditions, including confined spaces and uneven terrain.

Why Are Pipe Rollers Beneficial?

1. Ideal for Heavy-Duty Applications
LGH’s heavy-duty pipeline roller solutions equip you to complete projects involving large-diameter or standard pipes. Models like the MDR are built to accommodate larger loads while maintaining smooth operation.

Real-world use cases:

• • Refinery Upgrades: Pipe rollers help in replacing and installing long lengths of pipeline efficiently.
• • Construction Projects: For laying underground pipelines across challenging terrains such as rivers or urban roads, using rollers helps avoid friction-related damage and reduces drag forces.
• • Power Generation Facilities: In power plants, pipe rollers assist with the setup of extensive pipe networks. This approach handles pipes delicately and aligns them correctly.

2. Protects Pipes and Surfaces
Urethane pipe rollers provide a non-abrasive contact surface. As a result, the pipes are shielded from damage. This is particularly important for high-value pipes or those that must remain free of contamination, such as in food processing or pharmaceuticals.

LGH’s Pipe Rollers: Features and Models

At LGH, we pride ourselves on offering top-notch equipment for pipe handling equipment. Our selection includes:

 

• Small Pipe Rack Roller: 10″ with 2,000 lbs capacity. Pipe range is 2″ – 12″
  

  Small pipe rack roller

   
• 2110 and 2125 Beam Clamp Rollers from B&B Pipe & Industrial Tools: These models support pipe diameters up to 48 inches with load capacities ranging from up to 10,000 lbs.
  

  2110 beam clamp pipe roller

   

• MDR-700 from LJ Welding: These allow for multi-angle pipe movement and can handle larger loads, perfect for intricate projects involving directional changes. The capacity for this model is 2 tons.
  

  2 ton multidirectional beam clamp pipe rollers

Conclusion

Pipe rollers are fantastic tools for improving the safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness of moving or welding pipe. Whether you’re involved in large-scale construction, maintenance, or energy sector projects, pipe rack rollers can streamline your workflow and protect your workforce.

Choosing the right pipe roller can make all the difference in achieving project success. At LGH, we offer a wide range of pipe rollers, including those from B&B Pipe Tools, LJ Welding Automation, and Mathey Dearman, to meet your unique project needs. Contact us today to learn more about how our pipe handling equipment can transform your operations.

For more information or to rent pipe rollers, visit our pipe rack roller rental page!

ABOUT LGH

LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 70,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.