Final answer:
Horizontal hubless pipes must be braced at maximum intervals of 40 feet to prevent buckling, which is crucial for maintaining their structural integrity, especially in the chemical industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
Horizontal hubless pipes should be braced at not more than 40-foot intervals to prevent buckling. Buckling of pipes can occur due to various stresses and strains acting on the length of an unsupported pipe, such as weight, thermal expansion, or pressure from the fluid within. In the context of Scale economies in the Chemical Industry, as demonstrated in Table 7.15 comparing pipes of sizes 4-inch pipe, 8-inch pipe, and 16-inch pipe, it is essential to understand that larger pipes may require more frequent bracing due to increased weight and volume, which can contribute to a higher risk of buckling. Regular bracing ensures that the pipe maintains its structural integrity, thereby ensuring efficient and safe transportation of chemicals.