What is a characteristic of a rigid pipe?

A rigid pipe is characterized by its inherent structural strength and the inability to bend easily, which differentiates it from flexible piping options. One key aspect of rigid pipes is that they require proper support to maintain their integrity under various stresses, including loading and thermal expansion. If they are not adequately supported, the risk of breaking or cracking increases significantly, as they do not have the capacity to flex like flexible pipes do.

In contrast, options discussing flexibility, lightweight characteristics, or high-temperature resilience do not fully capture the defining nature of rigid pipes. While some rigid pipes may indeed resist deformation under high temperatures, the primary necessity for adequate support is a fundamental characteristic that defines how these pipes are designed and installed for optimal performance and longevity.