What is the function of a trapeze hanger in a sprinkler system?

A trapeze hanger plays a crucial role in supporting the piping used in a sprinkler system. Its primary function is to distribute the load of the water-filled pipe over at least two points. This design helps to reduce stress on the individual support points, preventing structural issues that could arise from concentrating the weight of the filled pipe onto a single point.

By utilizing at least two attachment points, a trapeze hanger effectively stabilizes the piping, ensuring that the system remains secure and functional, even under the weight of water running through the pipes. This is particularly important in larger installations where the piping can be quite heavy.

The other options mention limitations or characteristics that do not align with the purpose of a trapeze hanger. For example, it is not limited to supporting only larger pipes, nor is it restricted to fabrication in a shop setting. Instead, trapeze hangers can often be custom-fabricated on-site when necessary, reflecting their versatility in various installation scenarios.