- The pipe is not properly supported.
- The pipe has been damaged.
- The ground has settled or eroded away from the pipe.
Free spans can cause several problems, including:
- The pipe can sag and damage itself or other nearby objects.
- The pipe can vibrate and cause noise.
- The pipe can leak or rupture, which can release hazardous materials into the environment.
To prevent these problems, free spans should be minimized. This can be done by properly supporting the pipe and ensuring that the ground around the pipe is stable. If a free span does occur, it should be repaired as soon as possible.