What is the primary function of an anchor chair in relation to pipes and fittings?

The primary function of an anchor chair is to hold pipes in place. Anchor chairs are critical for maintaining the alignment and positioning of piping systems, especially in situations where the pipes could potentially shift due to various factors like thermal expansion, vibrations, or external forces. By securing the pipes, anchor chairs help to minimize movement and prevent stress on joints and fittings, which could lead to leaks or failure in the system.

While the other functions listed are indeed important in piping systems, they serve different purposes. For example, allowing for thermal expansion is more about the flexibility of materials and the use of expansion joints, rather than the anchoring function of anchor chairs. Improving fluid flow typically requires careful design of pipe diameter and fittings, while protection against corrosion involves protective coatings and material selection rather than anchoring. Thus, the key role of an anchor chair is its structural support within the piping arrangement.