I'd be interested to hear WHY they want you to include that equation. The equation is used when the hot allowable Sh exceeds SL, the stresses due to sustained loads.

Comments, Questions, and Answers with AutoPIPE's Output "Mode Shape" Sub Report:

Item #1:

There is more information available under the following, File> Print> Reports> MODAL Output command not avaiable in the normal output reports.

Thsi report contains 3 sections:

Displacement 

INDIVIDUAL MODAL CONTRIBUTIONS FOR RESPONSE SPECTRUM RESULTS


Local Forces and Moments



Relative Acceleration:

 Item #2:

For a model with a single segment on one axis (X-axis) with no bends, why are the R1 inertial forces in X directions {FX(Point 10) = 350.87 N and FX(Point 100) = 360.91 N}, are greater than zero, if the total modal captured mass in X direction is 0? 

Answer:  When reviewing the output report the participation values may be 0.00 but the actual value is much smaller than can be reported.

See the following procedure:
1. Open the model
2. Analyze the model
3. Select Results> Grids
4. Select Frequency Tab in the grid
5. Select any cell in the Particip. Factor X column, note that the value is not 0.00 but much smaller, ex: -5.2860372e-011. AutoPIPE output report is not able to show such small values.

Note: The anchor reaction is more for the model with higher cut-off frequency as it has higher level of discretization and thus able to capture higher modes better.

Item #3:

For a model with a single segment on one axis (X-axis) with no bends, Why for a very small cumulative modal mass of 2.0651929E-19 in X direction (corresponding to the 6th mode) such greater R1 forces values (FX=350.87 N and FX=360.91 N) have been obtained in anchors 10 and 100, while for a large cumulative modal mass of 7.9421875E+01 (corresponding to the 17th mode) lower R1 forces (FX=277.91 N and FX=271.42 N) have been calculated, accordingly?

Answer: Look at the special modal report in ITEM #1 above to review the contribution of each mode and the missing mass correction in the total response. This can be reviewed at the pipe force and moments  and not for the anchor reactions which may be slightly higher than the pipe FX force due to contribution from the anchor. In addtion, see the following observations:

Item #4:

2 models with exactly the same input except for ,modal analysis cutt off frequency, why are the first set of mode shapes NOT exactly the same?

Answer: Changing the cut-off frequency when you have the automatic mass points option will lead to different level of discretization in the model. That should explain the differences in the frequencies. Rather, I would not expect the first 7 frequencies to be same  as the two models are no longer "equivalent" - because the level of discretization is not same. Higher the cutoff frequency, would be a higher level of discretization.

Item #5:

Is there an animation tool to visualize deformations or modal analysis.

Answer: After analyzing a model with modal analysis, select Results> Mode Shape> select a mode shape number and check the box "Animate mode shape"

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Any troubleshooting should start with a complete understanding of the limitations imposed upon the imported model.

Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:
Help > Contents> Search Tab> enter "Limitations (PXF import)" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information. 

In addtion, see the following document: PXF - PXF - Project Exchange Format.pdf

Problem 1:

Going through the process of exporting a pxf file from OpenPLANT Modeler (08.11.09.278) and then importing the pxf file into AutoPIPE, the global coordinates from OpenPLANT do not get carried over into AutoPIPE.  Is there a way AutoPIPE can read in the coordinates from OpenPLANT so that the two models have the same coordinates?

Answer:

Close all open AutoPIPE sessions.

In the AutoPIPE folder is the following file:

C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ CADAP.MAP

Open the file in any text editor (i.e. notepad).

Note: Any changes made in the file must be correct, any mistake can and will cause problems with the imported model. Be sure to match column location and format.

Starting on line #60 is a list of setting options that you can change at will. To resolve this issue, change:

 'SHIFT ORIGIN (0,0,0) TO FIRST POINT IN MODEL      '     'Y'

to

 'SHIFT ORIGIN (0,0,0) TO FIRST POINT IN MODEL      '     'N'

Note: be sure that the coordinates do not exceed AutoPIPE's limitation with significant digits for corrdinate location. Otherwise the imported model will crash AutoPIPE at some point.

Save the CADAP.MAP file and restart AutoPIPE.

For complete details on these options, please see the following AutoPIPE help section:
Help > Contents> Search Tab> enter "PXF Import Options" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information. 

Problem 2:

The following is shown when importing a PXF file:

forrforrtl: severe (59): list-directed I/O syntax error, unit -5, file Internal List-Directed Read

Answer:

Please see the following WIKI page:

 AutoPIPE PXF import crashes AutoPIPE - forrtl: severe (59):

Problem 3:

Model is imported with large pipe dia:

Answer:

Open the PXF file in any text editor program (i.e. Notepad).

Change the UNIT from "MMETRIC" or "METRIC" TO "1" in PXF file (please see below snap shot)

Save the file and import it into AutoPIPE.

 Problem 4:

Error importing PXF file:

---------------------------
Error
---------------------------
 No piping with OD >=     1.400 inches is found in PXF file
---------------------------
OK  
---------------------------

Answer:

In Error and Warning report you may see that it says why it ignores this pipe to be imported. This is due to the default setting in the AutoPIPE cadap.map file. Go into the cadap.map file in the AutoPIPE root directory (Normally C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries..\ .. ) and the default description will read:

// IGNORE OUTER DIAMETER (inches) LESS THAN ' '1.40'
// OD < 1.4 WILL REMOVE ALL 1" (OD=1.315) AND SMALLER PIPES
// VALID OD RANGE IS 0-10 INCHES.

Scroll down to your options and reset the last one from 1.40 to 0.00 as shown below:

'IGNORE OUTER DIAMETER (inches) LESS THAN ' '0.00'

Save changes before exiting.

Most clients don’t want their 1 inch and less piping imported unless it is very high pressure or temperature because it would not require computer analysis.

Problem 5:

Importing Duct work AutoPlant components crashes AutoPIPE, why?

Answer: From the online help:  

AutoPIPE recognizes the following components:

AutoPLANT has more component names in the connectivity file than those listed above, so it becomes important to map any item type used in PXF file into one of the above listed components.

In addtion, PXF Item Type Numbers:

AutoPLANT PXF file has currently 20 different item types. The item type number is given under the field 2000 / 2100 in the PXF file. These types are listed below:

0     PIPE COMPONENT 
1     ELBOW  
2     180 DEGREE BEND  
3     TEE , Y or Y STRAINER 
4     CROSS  
5     CONCENTRIC REDUCER 
6     ECCENTRIC REDUCER 
7     IN-LINE FITTING: COUPLING, UNION, ETC.  
8     END OF LINE FITTINGS: CAPS, PLUGS, ETC.  
9     OLET, STUB IN 
10   SINGLE VALVE 
11   ANGLE VALVE 
12   3WAY VALVE 
13   4WAY VALVE 
14   FLANGE  
15   GASKET 
16   BOLT  
17   TRUNNION, BASE ELL/LINE SUPPORT, SPRING, HANGER 
18   SHOE, GUIDE 
19   WELD GAP 
51   EXPANSION JOINT 
99   END CONNECTION TYPE
 

Therefore if your exported PXF file does not contain component item numbers supported by AutoPIPE, the component can not be imported. Thus, crashing the program.

Fix: Confirm exported components from AutoPLANT are converted to AutoPIPE components that can be imported into the program. 

Note: According to the CADAP.MAP file, all AT_HVAC_xxxxxx components are mapped to (16)  BOLT, which are ignored (i.e. not mapped to an actual AutoPIPE component like Pipe, Elbow, etc..).

As already known, ducts are used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) to deliver and remove air. The mapping in CADAP.map of all HVAC -> BOLT is done intentionally to skip any HVAC components during PXF import. AutoPIPE does not have square pipe data in it's libraries. There is one enhancement that has not been added to the program related to this issue (CAE-CR-3338). Only workaround is to import HVAC into AutoPIPE and map it to circular pipe run and other components. This can be done by removing the mapping of HVAC_ components from the CADAP.map file (delete all occurrence of "AT_DUCT_xxxx" from the CLASS MAPPING TABLE). By doing so the application will display prompts for the user to map components to existing supported components during import.

Problem 6:

How can I tell what AutoPLANT component in a PXF file is mapped too in an AutoPIPE model? 

Answer:

See the follwing steps:

1. Open the AutoPLANT PXF file in any text editor (i.e. NotePAD, Ultra EDIT, MS WORD, etc..)

2. Search PXF file for 2000 or 2100, should be first item on a line. example:

2100 AT_PIPE

2100 AT_VALVE_BALL

2100 AT_SUPPORT_BASE

etc..

3. Open AutoPIPE CADAP.MAP file in any text editor (i.e. NotePAD, Ultra EDIT, MS WORD, etc..)

4. Search CADAP.MAP, CLASS MAPPING TABLE for item name listed after 2000 or 2100 (ex: AT_PIPE, AT_VALVE_BALL, etc.. ).

      'AT_PIPE                         '     0    'PIPE    '   // Base components

5. Scroll in the file to the top of the listing to see the section details:

Example:

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
// CLASS MAPPING TABLE (MAX. 2000)
// COLUMN 1 : AUTOPLANT'97 COMPONENT CLASS SPECIFIED IN CODE 2100
// COLUMN 2 : ITEM TYPE AS USED IN AUTOPIPE.  MUST BE MAPPED TO ONE
//            OF THE DESIGNER COMPONENT TYPE (CODE 2000).
// COLUMN 3 : MENU REFERENCE KEY USED BY DESIGNER (CODE 2001)
//
// USRCLASS.MAP COMPLEMENTS THIS TABLE
//
// NOTE: AUTOPIPE SUPPORTS BOTH THE NEW (AUTOPLANT'97-CODE 2100) AND
//       OLD (DESIGNER-CODE 2000) FORMATS.  AUTOPLANT'97 COMPONENTS
//       (CODE 2100) ARE MAPPED TO EQUIVALENT DESIGNER COMPONENTS
//       (CODE 2000 AND CODE 2001)
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Based on this informaiton,Column #2 identifies exactly what component the item is mapped too (ex. 0)

6. Scroll down to COMPONENT MAPPING TABLE, refer to column information and then search column # 1 for item number in above step (ex. 0) note in column #2, AutoPIPE component (ex. PIPE).

Ex: 00   'PIPE'  : PIPE OR PIPE BEND, IF RADIUS GIVEN ==> ELBO

7. Conclusion: AutoPLANT PXF AT_PIPE is mapped to a PIPE component in AutoPIPE.

Complete Example in summary of above steps:

a. In a PXF file search for 2000 or 2100 shows the following: 2100 AT_PIPE.

b. Search the CADAP.MAP file for AT_PIPE find the following: 'AT_PIPE  '     0    'PIPE    ' 

c. Scrolling to the top of this section to understand column details, as noted see column # 2 =   0

d. Scroll down to COMPONENT MAPPING TABLE, find 0 in table,  see colume #2 for AutoPIPE component, PIPE.

e. PXF AT_PIPE is mapped to a PIPE component in AutoPIPE.

Problem 7:

Import model (PXF) from OpenPlant shows that model have disconnects in several points and AutoPipe place Anchors in such points. See pictures. Problem is that OpenPlant do not show problems and we even can create ISO drawings. In attach you can find model, PXF and pictures. Why AutoPipe add Anchors in points and how to solve this problem?

Answer:

Using the latest version of AutoPIPE, there is a new feature on the import OpenPlant / AutoPLANT dialog screen, "Join disconnected pipe" (see online help for details on this feature).

By adjusting the tolerance the same model was imported with fewer anchors.

I did analysis of a piping system as per ASME 31.3 and results are OK.

I have a requirement to qualify same system as per EN13480 also.

I changed code in "general model options" and run the system.

(Material are as per ASME and thickness are as per ASME schedule but NS as per EN standard. These are all OK)

Now when I run the system, the allowable stress in expansion case showing as zero. So I could not evaluate the system.

Request your advice to solve the problem.

Topics under the heading are based on:

Component modeling with associated dialogs

1. **Attention** Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:
   Help > Contents> Contents Tab> Modeling Approaches> Modeling Approaches>
   
   This help has been provided in order to give users ideas for modeling typical piping arrangements. The steps shown in each example should not be taken as the only method available to create models. In addition, the intent of the examples is to present ways to create adequate models of specific piping components for analytical purposes.
   
             Anchors        Bends
             Cuts              Flexible Joints
             Frames         Hangers
             Nozzles        Pipes
             Reducers      Rotating Equipment
             Supports       Tees
             Valves           Vessels
   
   Example Systems
   

   This help has been provided in order to aid users in modeling more complex piping arrangements. 

   Choose from the following topics:

       A. PipeSOIL Interaction: Transition Example

       B. Water Hammer (Time History) Example

       C. Steam Relief (Time History) Example

       D. Harmonic Analysis Example

2. Cut / Copy / Paste / Rotate / Move / Streetch Commands

3. Model Compressor piping

4. Model Supports & Beam (Frames)

5. Model Buckling - AutoPIPE

6. Model Seismic Analysis

7. Model Concentrated Forces

8. Model Subsea (Underwater) Piping - AutoPIPE

9. Model Different Types of PIPING

10. Model Different Types of PIPING Components

11. Modeling Vessles/ Nozzle in AutoPIPE

12. Model Non-metalic Plastic Piping (i.e. Plastic, PVC, PP, PPR, HDPE, PE, FRP, GRP, etc.)

13.  Model Soil Properties in AutoPIPE

14.  Modeling Slug flow in AutoPIPE

15.  Apply More Than 1 Piping Code In an AutoPIPE Model

Comments, Questions, and Answers about modeling non-metalic plastic piping (i.e. Plastic, PVC, PP, PPR, HDPE, PE, FRP, GRP, etc.) using AutoPIPE

Item#1:

See the following file for typical modeling plastic piping modeling approaches - download attached file

Note: AutoPIPE V8i 09.05.01.xx and higer has a new Piping code: Iso14692 (Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries - Glass Reinforced Plastics (GRP) Piping).

Item #2:

Why is it not possible to use elbows with HDPE pipe as with steel pipe? (Note from AutoPIPE Help: "For HDPE pipes, only Close and Wide are accepted options.")

Answer: At this time, AutoPIPE has only provided HDPE for B31.1 and ASME NC/ND and that uses the CC-N755-1 provisions. CC-N755-1 only permits miter bends for HDPE and provides B1 & B2 indices for miter and close bends only.

Otherwise, you would need to have stress indices for your HDPE bends that could be manually entered.

tem #3. 

Is it possible to calculate HDPE pipe using any other (non-nuclear) code than N-755-1?

Answer: yes it would be posible, define Non Standard (NS) Pipe, with the correct values of allowable, modulus and everything required for calculations

Item #4.

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Comments, Questions, and Answers

Q1. How is Buoyancy added in AutoPIPE?

Answer: In AutoPIPE buoyancy weight is applied in GR case. It has both longitudinal and transverse components. When the pipe is vertical, difference in pressure cap forces is the same as buoyancy load and the transverse buoyancy is zero. When the pipe is horizontal, the cap forces from external hydrostatic load adds longitudinal stress and associated movements in addition to non zero transverse (vertical) buoyancy load.

Q2. Is Pipe insulation and Cladding accounted fro in bouyancy?

Answer: Form the online help:

Clad thickness: For wind loading, hydrotest, buoyancy and wave loading, the total diameter of pipe includes the cladding thickness.

Insulation thickness: The insulation thickness is also used to calculate the surface area of the pipe for wind loads and buoyancy effects.

Q3. How do I know if Buoyancy loads are being applied to the pipe?

Answer: At this time there is no single reported value in AutoPIPE for the total Buoyancy at each node point or for the entire model.

Workaround, must have 2 identical models, where the only differency is in one model, apply Load> Buoyancy as required, and then compare the results of all the vertical support loads under GR load case. The difference between the total vertical support values between both models is the buoyancy load applied to the piping.

Remember All points with a vertical coordinate value less than the "Water surface elevation" value specified on the Load> Buoyancy dialog will be considered submerged (buoyancy load is applied). Piping above this value will be considered above water and NO buoyancy will be applied.

In addition, confirm Segment tab on the input grid, "Apply Buoyancy" column for check boxes where Buoyancy load  is to be consideration for above / below "Water surface elevation" value:

Q4. Can you please explain the difference if any in how hydrodynamic loads are applied to both pipe sections utilising soil springs and pipe sections utilising v-stop supports.

Answer: In short there is not much difference. The pipe is supported by either soil springs or V-stop supports. The buoyancy load is another load case applied to the pipe as with any other load case (i.e. Wind). As you know buoyance load  is applied with the gravity (GR) load case (combined total of dead weight and bouyancy weight). Also becuase of the general nature of the different supports, pipe movement may be restricted more so by a given soil springs than a V-stop. Regardless, when GR is evaluated the pipe will move as the supports will allow.     

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Question 001:

I am trying to locate the reference information for the equations used to validate the AutoPIPE software as stated in the ATS documentation.  "THEORY: Refer to the AutoPIPE Reference Information in the AutoPIPE Online Help, for details on the equations used by AutoPIPE for calculation of stresses."

Answer:

Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:
Help > Contents> Contents Tab> Reference Information> Code Compliance Calculations> select the correct piping code.

In addtion to the online help, QA&R users have a right of access to Bentley's facility and documents (including  more detailed hand calculations) for the purpose of QA audits or inspection to verify the implementation of our quality assurance program.

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Questions and Answers

Item #1

I was running the Acceptance Test Set of AutoPIPE Nuclear 9.4.1.5 on our Technical Server and the Error Log showed differences we did not find when installing on our Personal Computers.

Answer: The fact that operation ran flawlessly on your system tells us that the AutoPIPE and ATS installation are working correctly. Also, tells us that something is wrong with one of the following: your log in access to the Technical server, missing files, server communication, etc.. Your IT department should be able to assist you compare folders, access rights, and Read/Write folder settings.

When logging a service request please be sure to supply all the information about your computer and the server computer.

 Item #2

AutoPIPE: model missing from ATS

During review of the AutoPIPE ATS document (ap_ats.pdf), some models (ex.QA 262-6.dat) are missing and are not listed in the Test Set Execution Status Matrix

TR Number: None
Product: AutoPIPE
Version: all
Area: General
Problem ID#: 71089

Answer: In the AutoPIPE ATS document (ap_ats.pdf), just before "Description of Acceptance Test Systems", is a note that reads"

" * These test sets are not part of the published Acceptance Test Set Manual."

The ap_ats.pdf lists all the models that are part of our QA&R testing. However, not all these models are available in the ATS. So any models listed in the "Test Feature Cross Reference" part of the document with an "*" next to the model name is not available in the Automatic test set.

Accounts that are signed up as Q&AR have an extra privilege to visit the CAE group facility in Walnut Creek, CA. to review all of AutoPIPE's models, documents, and calculations. This is by appointment only. Please see the following WIKI site about QA&R subscription details. 

Item #3:

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

What is BentleyTSG?

Bentley Technical Support Group (TSG) is dedicated to assisting our SELECT subscribers with technical problems encountered in Bentley applications.  Technical problems include defects in the software, user errors, enhancement requests, and general problems associated with using Bentley’s software.  TSG, however, is not responsible for training users on the proper use of our software. 

Most training issues ("How do I …") can be resolved by reading the Help files available with each application and through tutorials provided with the software.  Our analysts are technically minded and reserved primarily for users who have production issues because of problems with the software or user inflicted errors.  It would be detrimental to our users if our limited resources spent their time training users on how to use the software.

Bentley has a Professional Services group who are dedicated to providing professional consulting and training.  If you are interested in receiving formal training on any Bentley application, login to SELECT services Online http://www.bentley.com/en-US/training/products/ or contact your Account Manager

In addition, due to liability issues and lawsuits, Bentley TSG, cannot assist you in design decisions (ex. how to fix over stress, what piping code should be used, etc..) or construction details established by individual clients, engineering firms, project documentation, and/or code specific documentation.

What to do when a problem has occurred or log an enhancement request?

1. Log a Service Request -

Every problem / enhancement request with AutoPIPE should start with the logging of a service request. The service request has a unique number associated to it. When contacting Bentley, any analyst can refer to that number and have immediate access to all the account information and details on all communication between the user, analyst, and if required development teams.

This Service Request is very important when an issue results in a software modification due to a program error or a requested enhancement.

Users are encouraged to refrain from sending technical questions directly to Bentley Personnel. Instead, log a Service request. After receiving the automated response, reply to it with detailed information, and CC any additional Bentley Personnel as required. This ensures that all email communications are correctly logged for future reference.

2. Provide Problem  Details or Enhancement Request Details:

When logging a service request provide ample details to clearly present the error / enhancement:

1. What version of AutoPIPE are you using (Help> About> 8 digit number)

2. What exactly is the problem / error / enhancement

3. Submit a step-by-step procedure to reproduce the issue with the related Node number. If having a problem entering data into a dialog screen, must have exact steps of sequence with which data was entered and exactly what occurred as a result.

   Note: The development team cannot fix / investigate an issue that cannot be reproduced. 

4. Create highlighted screen shots as needed to clearly show the error / enhancement.

5. For issues where AutoPIPE results are being challenged, please provie details caluclations in MS Excel or Math CAD format for review by the Development team. The calculations should based on values documented in the output report. Again, provide clear details of your calculations and where exactly AutoPIPE appears to be incorrect.
   
   If quoting a section from a code,  provide the code name, code year, section, and pargraph designation. Helpfull to copy clip just the paragraph of concern to be included when sending your informaiton for review.

6. For issues that require the user's computer information, please provide the computer's system information using the following:

      1) Start> Programs> Accessories> System Tools>  System Information.

      2) After the program has been opened, select File> Save> save file

      3) Send me a copy of systemname.NFO file for review.

   Also, perform the following:

      1) Start DOS command, select Start> Run> type "cmd"

      2) Type, cd .. until c:\> is shown

      3) Type, c:\> Dir /s /o /ogne>systemname.txt

      4) Send a copy of the systemname.txt for review

   Note:

   1. You may need internal IT to provide user access when following the procedure above.

   2. These files may be large and can be shrunk by adding it to a ZIP file.

7. Issues where the program crashes:
   
   1) Reproduce the crash in AutoPIPE.
   
   2) Then open the Windows Start menu, and type the following in the text box at the bottom:
   
            Event Viewer
   
   3) Select Event Viewer from the results list.
   
   4) In the window that appears, expand Windows Logs on the left sidebar, and select Application Log.
   
   5) After a few moments, a list should populate on the right.
   
   6) Find the error listing with the same timestamp as the error that was just reproduced.
   
   7) Note the faulting module name. See the attached screenshot for an example.
   
   Note: The faulting module will show what library was executing code when the crash occurred. In some cases, this information will provide a clue, especially if the module is provided by Bentley. Provide the text or a screenshot of the error listing.

3. Send your AutoPIPE file:

Using AutoPIPE V8i 9.4 or higher, perform the following:

       A. Open the model
       B. Press Analyze> Analyze  ALL> check all required analysis options ON, press OK button.
       C. Select Tool> Model Input Listing>  check all sub reports ON. press OK button.
       D. Select Results> output report>   check all sub reports ON. press OK button.
       E. Select File> Model management> Save Archive> specify a folder location, enter a file name.APC, and press "Save" button.
       F. Another dialog will appear automatically, check "Select ALL", press "OK" button, 
       G. Send me a copy of the APC in a ZIP file for review.

OR

Using AutoPIPE V8i 9.3 and lower, provide (DAT, CMB, and any other custom files i.e. units, mat'l ....ect) and if required to run an analysis, include the following file types; C**, SPC, HMF, FS*, TIH, & THL.

4. Attach all files into a single ZIP file. 

To make it easier when sending an email and storing files, we recommend adding all files to a ZIP / RAR file(s) no larger than 5.0 megs.

If your file is larger than 5.0 megs, please see the following web link for instructions to upload your file to our FTP server. But, do not forget to send an email to the service request number logged with the name of the file upload. Otherwise, it will be lost. 

http://communities.Bentley.com/help/w/be_communities_help/bentley-ftp-site-tn.aspx

5. Contact us by Phone:

Corporate Headquarters
685 Stockton Drive
Exton, PA 19341, United States

 1-800-BENTLEY (1-800-236-8539)

Outside the United States +1 610-458-5000

More local offices

see Bentley Phone Queue listing for more details when calling

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

Bentley Select Services Technical Support webpage:

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Problem:

When analyzing a model the followng occurs:

---------------------------
Confirm
---------------------------
The load case did not converge. Do you wish to continue iterating?
---------------------------
Yes   No   Cancel  
---------------------------

What should I do?

Answer:

Seleting YES: The program will re-run the analysis for more iterations in hopes of converging below the non-linear tolerances specified.

Selecting No: Stops the analysis procedures and presents the following:

---------------------------
Confirm
---------------------------
Do you want to see .LOG file for magnitude of unbalance error?
---------------------------
Yes   No   Cancel  
---------------------------

Selecting Yes: AutoPIPE Viewer is automatical displayed with the *.LOG for review.

Selecting No or Cancel: The dialog is closed and user is able to enter the next AutoPIPE command.

Selecting Cancel: The dialog is closed and user is able to enter the next AutoPIPE command.

Addtional Comments, Questions, and Answers:

Question: What to do when this dialog appears?

Answer: Please see the following AutoPIPE help location.

Help > Contents> Contents Tab> Reference Information> Analysis Considerations> Static Analysis> Nonlinear Analysis - Gaps, Friction and Soil Yielding Included > Failure to Converge.

There are 4 solutions offered. In addition, consider reviewing how the model is moving under the offending load case. Sometimes support gaps need to be decreased / increased. In other cases, additional supports are needed in key locations around the model to prevent the movement to cause a model to not converge. Or a combinations of all 5 solutions is needed to resolve the issue.

Question: How do I read the *.LOG file?

Answer: When the file is opened by AutoPIPE Viewer or any Word editing application, search for the following word: "Case".

See the following example information:

Load case                    =  Gravity  
Iteration number             =   60
Maximum normal force error   =    3.8976E+04 lbf       for support   GUIDE  at point MGS  
Maximum gap closure error    =    8.2562E-02 inch      for support   GUIDE  at point A07  
Maximum friction force error =    1.1527E+03 lbf       for support   GUIDE  at point TGS  
Maximum soil force error     =    1.5481E+03 lbf       for support   SOIL   at point A44  
Maximum soil displ. error    =    2.2707E+03 inch      for support   SOIL   at point A46                     ERROR SUMMARY FOR NONLINEAR SUPPORTS          Tolerances - Force =  10.000 lbf  
                       Displ =   0.001 inch 
                       Fric. =   0.100 (ratio)
             Friction factor =   1.000  Point  Support  Load   Force      Support       Force       Displ  Name     Type   Type    Type       Force        Error       Error  A04      GUIDE                   GR                        bearing -2.0662E+04  0.0000E+00  0.0000E+00                       friction  2.2182E+03  1.5195E+02                   GR                        bearing  0.0000E+00  0.0000E+00  0.0000E+00

Since a nonlinear analysis does not necessarily converge exactly, the force tolerance is used to check for convergence of a load case. If the force error does not exceed this value at any support, the analysis is assumed to have converged. Make adjustments to the model based on information from the LOG file until the model converges

Question: Does AutoPIPE as a whole have the same type of converging issues as seen by other programs?

AutoPIPE has a more advanced non-linear analysis than other products, developed in the early 80's out of University of California, Berkley. Very rarely does it not converge. Typically when Users enter incorrect soil properties or very closely spaced supports e.g. 1-2' spacing may cause some oscillation of the solution. The program will not hang but the user can chose to stop the analysis and view the results at that iterative state. We have heard complaints from many Caesar Users about Caesar's converging issues. In fact one major German Company using Caesar sent us this quote.

"If friction coefficients are defined for supports in CAESAR II, there is a risk, if no convergence is reached the program is hanging. In order to fix this, the user should suppress the friction coefficients on 1 or more supports. This problem is NOT present in AutoPIPE."

However it does occur, we encourage our users to contact our technical support in order to help solve such issues.

Question: My piping model with gaps and friction does not converge after 5 iteration, can I continue?

Answer: Yes, generally the default number of nonlinear iterations = 5 (in version 6.0 or earlier) is adequate for most models but for models with large gaps and friction it is not uncommon for convergence to occur after 20-30 iterations particularly with the thermal, wind and earthquake cases being analyzed in one model.

If the analysis did not converge within the specified number of iterations, a confirmation dialog will be displayed requesting whether or not to continue iterating. A "yes" selection will allow the user to specify an additional number of iterations to perform. A "no" selection will display another confirmation dialog requesting whether or not to display the error log file (*.LOG). Press OK to close the &rsquoEquivalent Linear Analysis’ dialog.

If at least one load case converged, the analysis results may be examined using the options found in the Result menu regardless if other load cases did not converged successfully. In the case in which the analysis did not converge, an error message will be displayed after selecting any Result menu option (except Filter Criteria) indicating that the analysis did not converge. In addition, a double asterisks is printed before the combination names in the Code Compliance Combinations listing and Other User Combinations listing in the Load summary sub-report indicate that the analysis results for those marked combinations did not converge.

Product: AutoPIPE
Version: xx.xx.xx.xx
Area: GENERAL INFORMATION
Problem ID#: 28297

solution 500000055309

See FAQ 11.

Question: How to change number of iterations for static analysis?

Answer: Convergence is an iterative process that requires multiple passes in order to reduce the errors associated with initial estimates to an acceptable level. After each iteration, the [U] matrix is investigated for any effect on the stiffness matrix [K]. If [K] is affected, a new stiffness matrix is formed and the analysis is repeated until a solution is obtained. Since each loading condition can affect the system differently, a separate [K] matrix may be required for each defined load case. The iterative solution stops when all convergence criterion have been met (bearing, friction, & soil force and displacement).

Convergence problems may be alleviated by reducing the friction restraint stiffness. Lower friction stiffness will more-readily distribute friction loads throughout the system and speed or allow nonlinear convergence but this lower stiffness will also affect the accuracy of the results. Lower stiffness values permit more "non-sliding" movement, but given the indeterminate nature of the friction problem in general, this error may not be crucial.

To change the number of iterations in AutoPIPE select Load> Static analysis sets> Modify an analysis set> Gaps/Friction/Soil option must be checked ON, press OK button, on the non-linear analysis dialog screen change iteration setting to different value.

Question: My piping model with Wave does not converge, what should I do?

Answer: Analysis that considers wave, if convergence fails recommend reducing wave height

Comment: According to the Log report, there was a problem with the friction factor with T2 load-case. Not sure how to solve this issue with a friction force problem.

Answer: Look at the LOG file, see:

Load case                    =  Thermal 2
 Iteration number             =   99
 Maximum normal force error   =    0.0000E+00 Kgf     
 Maximum gap closure error    =    4.2603E+00 mm        for support  V-STOP  at point A20  
 Maximum friction force error =    1.5379E+02 Kgf       for support  V-STOP  at point B03

Playing with support at node B03 (even setting friction to zero) did not help. Then reviewed support at node point A20. Noticed  that the two supports at A17 and A20 are very close. Deleting one of these supports from node A17 or A20 made this model analysis converge.

Question: My model with beams AND soil properties does not converge, where is the problem?

Answer: Rule out each group by removing it from the model and try to again run the analysis. First create a copy of the original model. With the copied file, try and increase all the soil properties to extreme stiffness values as if it was rigid. Does the system converge in an analysis? No. Then try an remove all beams / frames in the model where all supports are connected to ground. Does the model converge? Yes. Add the original soil properties back into the model. Does the model converge? Yes. Recommend in depth review of each beam to be sure they are all correctly connected and has the sufficient beam properties. Add / Remove beam as required to narrow down the offending beam / frame.

Note: if modeling piping resting atop the soil, you may need to consider remodeling using V-stop Supports

Comments: Notes about converging issues with soil and under water piping

Buried pipe have a lot more nonlinear supports since every soil point has 4 nonlinear springs. In one hand having more soil points would increase the number of nonlinear equations. On the other hand having less soil points especially were needed, like near pipe change in direction, can also cause convergence problems. Consider increasing the soil stiffness (if feasible) and or decreasing your Maximum Spacing may alleviate the non-convergence issues.
 
Another issue is that if the soil bearing capacity P1 is too low, it can cause very large displacements and hence convergence. Under gravity, displacement down can get very large if pipe weight cannot be supported by P1. Upward displacements can also occur due to buoyancy and these can also be very large if uplift soil support P1 is not sufficient. I suggest using nonzero K2 values (0.001 - .0.1) in order to avoid unlimited displacements. Using larger K2 values temporarily (K2=K1/1000 or so) can help you see if P1 values are sufficient by checking displacements. You may need to add concentrated or distributed weight to submerged pipe to prevent it from uplifting (in practice concrete mats are added in some cases).
 
Using V-Stop at a reasonable spacing (that will make it pass sustained stress check), may be a way to get around convergence issues. You may use large friction factors (0.5 to 1.0) for these supports.  Also please note that AutoPIPE does not apply hydrodynamic factors to soil points and hence these factors, especially CL (under Xtra data/Hydrodynamic) should be increased to compensate for not applying hydro lift loads to soil points. Hydro factors under wave loading (drag and inertia) are applied to intermediate soil points. Lift factors can only be applied to actual nodes. Using V-STOP instead of soil can avoid this problem with lift factors

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE 

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

That seems like a hard job to do. Its like comparing bananas with peaches. Question is if you should qualify 1 system per 2 standards.

For B31.3 youll need ASTM material, for EN 13480 youre likely to EN materials. You need to choose one, so how can you then analyze two systems with one material, while each code requires its own materials? You cant.

There's an alternative, which I wouldnt suggest, but the the option would be to use ASTM materials in an EN 13480 piping system. Assuming PED 97/23/EC applies, you can make PMA's for the materials.

Furthermore, in AutoPIPE, there's an option to set the piping code to EN 13480. Im not sure what "general modle options" does  in terms of pipe stress analysis.

Comments Questions and Answers on modeling with PLantFLOW:

Item #1, Question:

Mainly do dust collection - 50 to 100 inlets through branches to one outlet (such as a fan).. If we know the outlet properties, can I get flow rate?  Are there any limitations to the amount of inlets/outlets?

Answer: We believe that this question would relate to the fact that there has to be an equal amount of known and unknown boundary conditions.  There is some confusion on whether the amount of inlets vs. outlets has limitation.

Item #2, Question:

If I know the flow rate, does PlantFLOW have the intelligence to tell me how many restrictions I will need in my model geometry?

Answer: PlantFLOW can be used to test geometry configurations by running an analysis and calculating the pressure drop in each component.  However, it will not tell a user how to model the geometry based on the the needed results and inputs.

Item #3, Question:

If my pipe is outside at something like 100 deg C, can I input insulation, etc to calculate heat loss?

Answer: For buried and exposed pipe, the user has the option of using a simple or complex heat transfer model. A complex type takes into account the effect of the pipe material and insulation.  The last column in the "Component-Flow Report" seems to represent the calculated value of heat flow.

Item #4, Question:

Fluid library - for sewage disposal, is there any way to input the size and density of the solids that will be floating in fluids?

Answer: PlantFLOW does not have the ability to do this.  The user has to define the liquid in the pipe and cannot do two-phase flow.

Item #5, Question:

Can PlantFLOW analysis the Vacuum pipe with negative pressure??

Answer: From online help: 

Static pressure: Enter the absolute static pressure at this point. Negative values are not allowed.

Item #6, Question:

As we know we can insert a heat exchanger in PlantFLOW. Can PlantFLOW analyze heat exchanger performance or recommend the configuration of heat exchanger to meet the requirements.

Answer: In PlantFLOW, a heat exchanger is modeled as a component with specific properties. 

With regards to analyze heat exchanger performance, perform multiple analysis making changes to the model as required to evaluate the performance of the heat exchanger.

With regards to PlantFLOW recommending the configuration of heat exchanger to meet the requirements, this cannot be done with a simple heat exhanger element.

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Comments, Questions, and Answers about AutoPIPE's Forces & Moments Output report :

 Items #1, Question:

At a pipe end point, actually a weld neck flange (A00), I have added concentrated forces (and moments) and made it an anchor point. When I list the results for Restraint Reactions the concentrated forces are included, but when I list the results for Global Forces & Moments in the same point they are excluded. I was expecting to see the same values but
with opposite signs. Can anyone explain?

Answer: The Forces and Moments and Restraint (anchor) reports may not always agree, each report maybe looking at a different side of the cutting plane.

In AutoPIPE, Pipe forces and moments are reported at one side of the cutting plane at a point. We remove all piping from the beginning of the segment up to the point and we look at what's left of the cut. Forces acting at a point would appear in one cutting plane, but not the other. See the following online help section: Help> Contents> reference information> results interpretation> Pipe Forces and Moments: Global Option for more information.

This is a limitation of reporting one side of the cutting plane for pipe points. In AutoPIPE XM and higher we have a new Reference Point report that allows you to report forces at any side of the point you wish

In addition:

Support Report
Creates a section which lists support forces and displacements (local, and global) for each active load case and Other combination.

Restraint Report:
Creates a section which lists anchor and support forces (and moments) at restrained points for each active load case and Other combination.

Also, please see the following AutoPIPE help section:
Help > Contents> Contents> Reference Information> Results Interpretation> :

Support Forces: Hangers and V-stops
Support Deformations: Hangers and V-stops without Gaps
Support Forces for Guides and Line Stops without Gaps
Support Forces: Guides & Line Stops with Gaps & Friction

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Comments, Questions, and Answers on AutoPIPE output reports:

Item #1. Results Interpretation

Be sure to review AutoPIPE's online help:

Help > Contents> Contents Tab> Reference Information> Results Interpretation>   

This appendix explains how to interpret AutoPIPE's output report results. The coordinate systems used for the results presentation are particularly important, and are listed first. The output sign conventions for the different result types are then described.

     - Coordinate Systems
     - Total vs. Incremental Loading
     - Pipe Displacements
     - Pipe Forces and Moments: Global Option
     - Anchor Forces
     - Support Forces: Hangers and V-stops
     - Support Deformations: Hangers and V-stops without Gaps
     - V-stops with Gaps and Friction
     - Hangers and V-Stops with Imposed Displacement
     - Two-Point Hangers and V-Stops
     - Straight Pipe Forces and Moments: Local Option
     - Support Forces for Guides and Line Stops without Gaps
     - Support Forces: Guides & Line Stops with Gaps & Friction
     - Two-Point Guides and Line Stops
     - Curved Pipe Forces and Moments: Local Option
     - Support Forces for Skewed Supports
     - Support Forces for Tie/Link Restraints
     - Beam Member Forces
     - Dynamic Support Forces

Item #2. Analysis Subreports

See the following hyperlinks for issue on the respective Anslysis Output sub report:
Command: Analyze model> Results> Output Report:

     - Displacement
     - Support
     - Restraint
     - Forces & Moments
     - Code Compliance
     - Stress Summary
     - Frequency
     - Mode shapes
     - Equipment
     - Soil
     - Bend Angular Distortion
     - Stress Indices
     - Tee Plastic Strain
     - Beam forces
     - General stress
     - Preliminary Stress
     - Accelerations
     - Flange Summary
     - Model listing
     - Analysis summary
     - Steam Relief
     - Reference Loads
     - Fatigue
     - Result summary

Iten #3 Component Data Listing:

See the following hyperlink for issues on the respective Component Data listing (aka Model Input Listing) report:Command: Toos> Model Input listing.

     - Extended Component (Point in v6.1)
     - Coordinates (Component in v6.1)
     - Pipe Properties
     - Material Properties
     - Material Allowables
     - Temperature & Pressure
     - Beam
     - Forces & Displacements
     - Thermal Anchor Movements
     - Seismic Anchor Movements
     - Center of Gravity
     - Earthquake Scale Factors
     - Design Temp and Press
     - Soil Properties
     - Load Summary
     - Support
     - Bend
     - Tee
     - Valve
     - Flange
     - User SIF
     - Reducer
     - Rigid Pipe
     - Reference Points
     - Gross Discontinuity Stress
     - Segments Data

 Item #4: Can AutoPIPE print the Output reports to excel or .csv?

Answer: We apologize for the inconvenience, however AutoPIPE cannot print its reports directly to MS word or MS Excel. Reports are currnetly written to the following files: *.OUT,  *.HGR, *.RPT.

These file can be opened by any text editor (i.e. NotePad, Ms WORD, ect..) . Also, AutoPIPE can export both the Input gids and Results grids to a database file (*.MDB), for manipulation into customized reports.

This enhancement has been logged under CAE-CR-345: Add option to generate reports as EXCEL & WORD files.

 Items #5:

 AutoPIPE Resutls Grids or Output Reports are found to be Zero (0.00) or Blank

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Topics under the heading should be based on:

Piping code calculations

1. Be sure to review the following AutoPIPE online help information:
   
   Help > Contents> Contents Tab> Reference Information> Code Compliance Calculations>
   
   This area describes variables, equations, and methodology used by AutoPIPE to produce output reports per the code associated with the piping system database. AutoPIPE is capable of generating actual and allowable stresses for each of the applicable stress categories (depending on the current, analyzed load cases) for all codes listed below. Please Note: The Standard edition only has access to 4 ASME codes and European code EN13480 as shown in the Getting Started topic "AutoPIPE Standard vs Advanced vs Nuclear".
   
   Select the Pipig code hyperlink below for general questions on the respective code calculations.
   Note: additonal hyper links are added as new information is presented.

   ASME B31.1	Power Piping
   ASME B31.3	Process Piping
   ASME B31.4	Liquid Transportation Systems for Hydro-carbons, Liquid Petroleum Gas, Anhydrous Ammonia, & Alcohols
   ASME B31.8	Gas Transmission & Distribution Piping Systems
   ASME B31.4 Chapter IX	Offshore Liquid Piping Systems
   ASME B31.8 Chapter VIII	Offshore Gas Transmission
   ASME BPV-III-1-NB	Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, Rules for Construction of Nuclear Power Plant Components Division 1, Subsection NB, Class 1 Components
   ASME BPV-III-1-NC	Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, Rules for Construction of Nuclear Power Plant Components Division 1, Subsection NC, Class 2 Components
   ASME BPV-III-1-ND	Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, Rules for Construction of Nuclear Power Plant Components Division 1, Subsection ND, Class 3 Components
   JSME S NC1-PPC	Rules on Design and Construction for Nuclear Power Plants, Class 2 Piping
   BS806	Design and Construction of Ferrous Piping Installations For and In Connection with Land Boilers
   SPC	Swedish Piping Code, Code for Piping in Stationary Plants (Stress Analysis - Method 2)
   TBK5-6	Norwegian Pressure Vessel Committee, General Rules for Piping Systems
   STOOMWEZEN (D1101)	Dutch Piping Rule D1101 of the Rules for Pressure Vessels
   CAN/CSA-Z662	Canadian Standards Association, Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems
   DNV	Norwegian Piping Code, Rules for Submarine Pipeline Systems
   MITI501	Technical Standards for Construction of Nuclear Power Plant Components - MITI Notification No. 501
   KHK Level 1	KHK E 012 Japanese Piping Code for Seismic Loads, Level 1
   KHKLevel 2	KHK E 012 Japanese Piping Code for Seismic Loads, Level 2
   EN13480	EN 13480 European Standard for Metallic Industrial Piping
   RCC-M	French Piping Code
   SNCT	French Piping Code
   SNiP	Russian Trunk Pipelines Code
   BS7159	Design and Construction of Glass Reinforced Plastics (GRP) Piping Systems for Individual Plants or Sites
   ISO 14692	Petroleum and Natural Gas Industries, Glass-Reinforced Plastics (GRP) Piping
   General	General Piping Code

2.  Why does AutoPIPE ignore axial force in most of the code equations?
   
   Answer: Confirm the model is considering axial force, as this option by default is turned OFF. See Tool> Model Options> Results> "Include axial force" option
   
   Excerpt from online help:
   
   The piping codes ignore the effect of axial force for calculating stresses in the sustained and occasional categories (only bending moments are considered, see Code Compliance Calculations). This option has been provided to allow the inclusion of axial force effects. By default this option is unchecked....
   
   See online help for more information on this option.

3. 
   
   
   
   
    

Comment, Questions, and Answers about ASME B31.4 code calculations in AutoPIPE

Item#1:

Question, We don't understand the way the expansion stress is checked according to the last revision of ASME B31.4, because we don't understand the resulting allowable stress: based on paragraph 403.3.2 of ASME B31.4 it should be as below, but it doesn't appear to be applied in AutoPIPE.  Further, in AutoPIPE online manual (toolbar) the expansion stress is still the same of very old releases (it is referred to a paragraph not more available in ASME B31.,4). it will be very appreciated if You give us an explanation on how AutoPIPE calculates the allowable expansion stress for ASME B31.4 Ed. 2012.

Answer: For B31.4 (2009 and higher) AutoPIPE does calculate the unrestrained expansion allowable as per clause 403.3.2 explained below for AutoPIPE:

SA=f[1.25(Sc+Sh)- SL]

Where:

SA  = Allowable expansion stress
f     =  Fatigue factor (defined as "Range reduction factor" on Result Model Options dialog)
Sc  =  2/3 * Sy (Sy is the minimum yield defined on Pipe Properties dialog)
Sh  =  2/3 * Syt (Syt is the yield value at each temperature case, updated on pressure and temperature dialog)
SL  =  Sustained stress for unrestrained lines

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

Problem:

In addtion to the "StressISO_Troubleshooting.pdf" document found on your hard drive, see the following information: 

TR Number: None
Product: AutoPIPE
Version: n/a
Area: General
Problem ID#: 72015

Answer:

solution 500000088706

Information:Isogen is a 3rd party software that is bundles with many cad applications such as Bentley AutoPIPE to automatically produce an isometric drawing. Isogen is very particular about the format of the data being converted into an DXF, DWG, or DGN file format. If there is one error in the data Isogen may hang, display a message about warnings with the file, etc...

Use the following steps to trouble shoot an Isogen related issue with AutoPIPE:

1. Known issues

Known issues are documented in the StressISO_Troubleshooting.pdf located in the AutoPIPE folder. Review this document to see if it is a known issue.

2. Isometric based on actual pipe components:

For an example, AutoPIPE can model a tee where the branch axis matches the same direction as the tee's header pipe axis. This is wrong modeling but can be done in AutoPIPE.

However, Isogen will abort because it knows that a tee like that cannot be constructed. In order to export the model, the tee must be fixed so the branch axis does not match the header axis.

The goes for all other pipe components, if the actual component cannot be drawn because of dimensional issues or arrangement, then isogen will abort trying to create a stress iso.

Recommend:

a. Review all valves and flanges closely. Be sure all are modeled correctly
b. Review Tools> Model Consistency Check report to reduce number of warnings.
c. In general, review model looking for obscurities.

Typical issues:
---------------------

a. Flanged valve in middle of pipe run without attached flanges, add flanges to both sides of valve.

b. In middle of pipe run, back to back flange set. Upon closer inspection, there are 3 flanges. Remove the correct flange.

c. Known limitation, reducer cannot be the start or end of segment. Add short pipe run from reducer.

d. Middle of pipe run where 2, 4 inch dia, branches are placed side by side on top of the pipe. However branch center lines are only 3 inches apart causing an overlap. This can be modeled but not exported to Isogen. Fix by reducing branch size or moving center lines apart.

e. Kink in pipe of 179.9 deg, remove pipe kink.

f. W726-170:The tee at point E00 has only two legs, fix by adding a branch run pipe, or change Tee node to a Point node.

3. Where is the warning occurring

If the following is displayed:

---------------------------
ExecISO
---------------------------
There were some warnings and/or errors while executing ISOGEN.
Do you want to review messages:
---------------------------
Yes No
---------------------------

Select the Yes button and

C: \Bentley \AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries \PISOGEN \PROJECTS \APIPEPROJ \FINAL \OUTPUTFINAL.MES

is automatically displayed. Review the entire document and try to resolve any and all warnings displayed.

4. Disconnected systems:

Before creating a stress iso, review the model segments to be sure they are connected and do not stop at a component (i.e. valve, reducer, bend, etc..). Sometimes a run of pipe is broken into multiple segments on the same run of pipe. Best practce for when creating models for export to Stress ISO, reduce the number of segments to as few as possible, by using Edit> Segment> Join command at run node points that are common between 2 segments.

Another great tip, with a complicated model use the following feature: Select> Connected segments> choose only one box to highlight a connected series of pipe. A limitation to the Alias Stress Isogen is that it cannot process 2 or more disconnected segments at the same time.

With one group of piping selected, create a stress iso as before, and be sure to confirm the "use connected segment" or "se Selected range" check box is checked ON.

Note: If using example technique: "Modeling a "dummy leg" as a structural member or a pipe", again stress Iso cannot generate the dummy support because it is considered as a disconnected segment. Only 2 workaround suggestions: a. use a different modeling technique allowed by ISOgen or b. manually modify isometric after being created in a cad application to add leg information..

5. Clean folder

Create a new folder on the Desktop, copy the model's DAT file to the new folder, start AutoPIPE, open the file from the new folder location, run the analysis, try to create a Stress iso DXF file instead of DWG or DGN file.

6. Model Size Limitation:

Isogen has some model size limitations. Try selecting a portion of the model that is completely connected and creating a stress iso based on the select set. See #5 above for technique to select connected segments. Otherwise, need to manually create a selection set of connected segments.

7. Stress iso Template files

AutoPIPE V8i 9.3 and lower:

All Stress iso template files need to be saved into AutoCAD 2000 format only; see the following procedure:

1. Open the isogen title bock in AutoCAD

2. Once open, run an audit by typing A-U-D-I-T in the command line.
AUDIT command evaluates the integrity of a drawing and corrects some errors.

3. When completed, purge the drawing by typing P-U-R-G-E in the command line. The PURGE command removes unused items, such as block definitions and layers, from the drawing.

After the above has been completed, copy the file to the AutoPIPE folder

….C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries3\PISOGEN\BORDERS

In order to use the new border file, under "Isogen Settings" confirm: Drawing Frame File, User Defined, Plot Frame, Drawing Size, AutoCAD units, Dimension/Tex formats settings.

See following link as help

http://communities.bentley.com/other/old_site_member_blogs/bentley_employees/b/joeys_blog/archive/2010/06/03/ddt-audit-generated-on-autoplant-piping-isogen-drawings.aspx

AutoPIPE V8i 9.4 and higher:

Skip the last step for saving to previous version and only A-U-D-I-T, P-U-R-G-E is required before saving the file to 2010 - 2012 format.

8. Switches:

There are 100's of switches that can be adjusted for isogen. Recommend resetting these switches by overwriting the Stressiso.ini and Apipe.opl files with a default copy of each file. Or, use a copy from a person's computer who does not have such issues when creating an iso from the same file that you are having troubles with.

Reset Default Settings
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stress iso stores dialog settings and other information in a variety of files/locations:
___a. Stressiso.ini
___b. Apipe.opl
___c. C:\Bentley \AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries \PISOGEN \PROJECTS \APIPEPROJ \Final

Depending on configuration, settings enter, or anomalies there could be a conflict when creating a stress iso. Only after completing all the above steps 1-8 should this resolution be considered. The best solution is to reload the default settings again before trying to run stress iso. The easiest method of resetting the default values is over write the current files with a copy of the original files when the application was installed. If you do not have a copy of the original files, suggest uninstall/reinstall the application.

9. Register DLL

The following is displayed in the Final.MES:

***** POD Error(s) *****
Unable to initialise POD : Failed to generate POD - Conversion failure :

Register all DLL
---------------------------------------

a. Close AutoPIPE

b. Log into computer with Admin Rights

c. Locate Register.dll, generally found in "C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Bentley Shared\Plant V8i\Isogen".

d. Right click on the file, select "Run as Administrator" option

e. The screen will display the Dos cmd window and automatically register the following DLL's in the system:
____pipeline.dll
____skey.dll
____importexport.dll
____pod.dll
____pisogen.dll
____materialdata.dll
____smartrad.dll
____catmanager.dll
____idfgen.dll

Note: these DLL should have been registered when the application was installed. Something had prevented them from being registered correctly.

f. Restart AutoPIPE and try to create a new stress Iso drawing.

Register specific DLL
---------------------------------------

a. Close AutoPIPE

b. Locate POD.dll, generally found in "C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Bentley Shared\Plant V8i\Isogen".

c. Open the command-line prompt
____Start Menu> Run
____Type "cmd"
____Press "ENTER" or "Return" keyboard key

d. Using the POD.dll filename and path, call regsvr32, i.e. at the command-line prompt, type:
____ regsvr32 "C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Bentley Shared\Plant V8i\Isogen\pod.dll"
____ Press "ENTER" or "Return" keyboard key

e. You should see a regsvr32 window, confirming success: Close it.
____RegSvr32
____DllRegisterServer in C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Bentley Shared\Plant V8i\Isogen\POD.dll succeeded.

Press "OK" button.

f. Restart AutoPIPE and try to create a new stress Iso drawing.

10. Dimensioning Stress Iso

On the "Stress Isometric Options" dialog, click on the "Isogen Settings" command button, or select Tools > Settings > Isogen…> select the "Dimension / Text tab" displays the current options/settings for adding dimensions and text on a stress Iso drawing.
The Stress Iso utility has a limited number of options available for dimensioning a model and are all listed in the dialog. Any options or type of dimensioning not listed would be considered an enhancement. Please log a service ticket requesting the enhancement in detail.

11. Dimensioning across segments and flanges appear incorrect

A stress Iso was created for a given model. On the stress Iso, it has been observed that the total length of pipe from the pipe end to a flange set (Dim A) and distance from flange set to bend TIP point (Dim B) adds up to be correct total distance. However Dim A and Dim B do not equal the actual values in the model. Additional note, the flange set is at the junction point between 2 connected segments.

As AutoPIPE does not have the length for the flange and it cut the pipe to arrange the space for the flange. As for normal pipeline this scenario works perfect but there is a limitation in AutoPIPE that if the flanges placed on the segment continuation point then the space allocation for flanges can be cut from the one side. By that there was the change in the length which is equal to the flange hub length (ex. 305mm).

The avoidance is to join the segments by selecting the node point between the segments (ex A04) and go to "Edit > Segment > Join" and then export to stress ISO. Then Dim A and B on the model match that in the exported stress Iso drawing. The CAE development team will be adding a 2 point flange in AutoPIPE V8i 9.7project to dismiss such scenarios as seen above.

12. Nothing happens after pressing OK on Isogen settings dialog
(iso not created)

Application was not installed using full administrative rights. Uninstall and re-install AutoPIPE with full admin rights

13. Drawing file is not created, but PCF file is:

___A. Be sure that AutoPIPE was installed on the computer with a person who has has full admin rights. If unknown, completely uninstall the program, delete AutoPIPE folder, reboot the computer logging in with admin rights, reinstall the application.

___B. Check to see if the version of AutoPIPE installed is listed in "add/remove programs" (Win XP) or "Program and Features" (Win 7). If not listed, completely uninstall the program and reinstall with full admin rights.

___C. If the above does not resolve issue send computer information by performing the following:
Computer's system information:
1) Start> Programs> Accessories> System Tools> System Information.
2) After the program has been opened, select File> Save> save file
3) Send me a copy of systemname.NFO file for review.

___D. Also, perform the following:
1) Start DOS command, select Start> Run> type "cmd"
2) Type, cd .. until c:\> is shown
3) Type, c:\> Dir /s /o /ogne>systemname.txt
4) Send me a copy of the systemname.txt for review.

These files may be large and can be shrunk by adding it to a ZIP file. Create a service ticket and send files for review

14. Anchor symbol is not drawn correctly:

Please follow these steps.
1. Close AutoPIPE
2. Open AutoPIPE's installation folder, C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\
3. Locate the following file "PCFout.map"
4. Open this file in any text editor (i.e. notepad)
5. Go down to line 41, see the following:

ANC SUPPORT 01AN

6. Change "01AN" to "ANCH", should look like:

ANC SUPPORT ANCH

7. Save the file.
8. Open AutoPIPE, run an analysis, process a new stress iso.
The problem should be solved.

15. Drawing file not created after stressiso dialog closes for a very large model:

When I try to create a stress Iso the PCF file is created in the folder, however the drawing file is never created. In addition the program issues the noticed that the drawing has been completed.

Answer: The following was shown in the following file:

C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ PISOGEN\ PROJECTS\ APIPEPROJ\ FINAL\ OUTPUT\ FINAL.MES

START OF DRAWINGERROR DETECTED IN PIPE /drawingname
********************************************************************************
ERROR:
Message Identifier: ISOGEN:1007
Message Text: OVERFLOW IN PIPELINE DATA
PIPELINE REJECTE

Avoidance: divide the larger model into smaller models using the window selection of AutoPIPE.
First export the first selection and then export each additional selection.

16. Cannot be resolved:

If the problem still persists and cannot be resolved by the above suggestions complete the following:
=================================
a. Create a new folder on the Desktop
b. Copy the model's DAT file to the new folder
c. Start AutoPIPE & open the file from the new folder location
d. Run the analysis
e. Create a Stress iso DXF file
f. If the warning in #2 above appears, select OK button
g. Close AutoPIPE
h. Zip all the files in the new folder on the desk top
i. Zip all the files in the following location:

"C:\Bentley \AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries \PISOGEN \PROJECTS \APIPEPROJ \FINAL"

j. Include the following files from the AutoPIPE application folder. "C:\Bentley \AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\:

_____ - i. Stressiso.ini
_____ - ii. Apipe.opl

k. Create a service ticket at:http://appsnet.bentley.com/srmanager/addcall.aspx

Attach both Zip files to the service ticket and submit for review.

See Also

Bentley AutoPIPE

External Links

Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase

Bentley LEARN Server

Comments or Corrections?

Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please submit any comments you have on this Wiki article to
the "Comments" area below. THANK YOU!

The article below provides instructions for removing and reinstalling AutoPIPE for troubleshooting purposes.

Background

Various program anomalies can be solved by conducting a procedure called a clean installation. This involves uninstalling all versions of a program and removing any files that are left behind prior to reinstalling.

Steps to Accomplish

Before doing these steps, some precautions should be performed to ensure that user-created models and configuration settings are preserved.

AutoPIPE installations reside in the following location by default:

C:\Bentley

So AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries 5 (version 09.06.00.15), for example, would be saved in the following location by default:

C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries5

To preserve configuration settings that differ from the program defaults, please save a copy of the AutoPIPE.ini file to an alternate location. The file is stored in the AutoPIPE folder itself.

Important: Save a copy of any user-created models stored in the AutoPIPE folder or the Examples folder within. A best practice is to save all models to a network drive or the My Documents folder on the local drive.

Open the Control Panel, and visit either Add or Remove Programs (Windows XP) or Programs and Features (Windows Vista/7/8). Uninstall any listings for Bentley AutoPIPE 2004, XM, or V8i. The following listings, if present, can remain:

• AutoPIPE Preview Handler
• AutoPIPE Vessel
• Bentley AutoPIPE Batch File Generator
• Bentley AutoPIPE Nozzle

Navigate to C:\Bentley (or an alternate location where AutoPIPE was installed), and remove any folders for AutoPIPE 2004, XM, or V8i. The following folders, if present, can remain:

• AutoPIPE Nozzle
• AutoPIPE Translators
• AutoPIPE_BatchGenerator

Then install AutoPIPE again. To restore configuration settings, copy the AutoPIPE.ini file to the AutoPIPE folder again, replacing the file that currently resides there.

See Also

[[Bentley AutoPIPE]]