Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Settings Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Select the link below for Q&A on the following Tools Model Options Results settings in AutoPIPE: Tools Model Options Result: Format (Node/Combin) Displacement Scale Force (Global/Local) Range reduction factor Include axial force Weld efficiency factor Overwrite output file Y Factor Use nominal thickness Design factor F Use nom. thk. for Hoop Temperature derating factor Set SUS SIF =1 no bends Design Pressure factor Single SIF at point Minimum Stress Ratio Set Sus/Occ SIF = 1 Hoop safety factor Set Sus/Occ = 0.75i Long. safety factor Include torsion Shear allowable factor Single SIF at tees Total allowable factor Apply all K-factors Interm. stress points Include results desc No. of thermal ranges Include bend ovaling Include Max Range comb Include hoop bending Include Axial,Pcase in Sustained Direct Shear (N/R/A) Use Alt Occ Allowable Total stress(Oct/Max) Apply circ w factor Use code case 178 Use theoretical Sec Mod Apply modulus ratio Long. Pressure (P/A/M/N) Apply tee summation Show rigid tee stress Sustain Margin (Y/N/E)   Use min. sustained margin   Use g's for acceleration   Digits after decimal     Additional Fields for B31.3 2010 edition. Set Occasional SIF=0.75i Additional Fields for B31.4 Offshore and B31.8 Offshore. Hoop Design Factor - F1 Long. Design Factor - F2 Combined Dsgn Factor - F3 Additional Fields for CSA-Z662 Offshore. Func. Design Factor - F1 Func+Env Dsgn Factor - F2 Additional Fields for SNiP 2.05.06-85 Oil & Gas. Use Axial in Hoop Allow Additional Fields for EN13480 European code. Use min(f;fcr) for Hoop Additional Fields for ISO 14692 Set Hoop SIF = 1 (bends) Sustained Factor-f2 Sus.+Thermal Factor-f2 Occasional Factor-f2     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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Comments, Questions, and Answers about modeling approaches for "Flexible Joints" Overview: Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:  Help Contents Contents Tab Modeling Approaches Modeling Approaches Flexible Joints There are 8 different types of flexible joints modeling approaches provided: Single Bellows Expansion Joint Tied Bellows Expansion Joint Tied Universal Expansion Joint Hinged Expansion Joint Gimbal Expansion Joint Slip Joint Ball and Socket Joint Pressure Balanced Expansion Joints Complete instructions on these modeling approaches are available in AutoPIPE's online help. Select the hyperlinks above for more information than available in the online help or Q&A about these modeling approaches.  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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Modeling Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group AutoPIPE's Online help "Modeling Approaches" **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.        Anchor Bends Cuts: Cold Spring            Flexible Joints   Frames  Hangers  Nozzles   Pipes Reducers   Rotating Equipment Supports  Tees  Valves  Vessels  AutoPIPE's Online help "Example Systems" This help has been provided in order to aid users in modeling more complex piping arrangements. Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:  Help Contents Contents Tab Modeling Approaches 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 In addition, with AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.xx.xx and higher other example systems / tutorials documents can be found under:         C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ Documents (default installation folder):        - ASME_ND_With_HDPE_Support_Walkthrough_Rev2.pdf        -  AUTOPIPE NEW FEATURES AND ENHANCEMENTS [V9.60 TO V6.20].pdf        -  AutoPIPE Quick Reference.pdf        -  AutoPIPE_ASME_NB_Example.pdf        -  AutoPIPE_MSRS_Example1.pdf        -  AutoPIPE_Tutorial.pdf        -  Hot_Clash_tutorial.pdf        -  Non_Linear_Load_Sequencing.pdf        -  PIPELINK_tutorial.pdf        -  ProjectWise Integration.pdf        -  Quickstart_AutoPIPE.pdf        -  StresISO_Troubleshooting.pdf        -  Tutorial - Import Coordinates from Excel to AutoPIPE.pdf        -   Tutorial - Soil Overburden and Seismic Wave Propagation in AutoPIPE.pdf        -  Tutorial-ASME_B311_With_HDPE.pdf        -  Tutorial-DNV-OS-F101-2012.pdf        - Tutorial - ISO 14692 FRP.zip         -   Tutorial - HDPE with B31.1        -   Tutorial - HDPE with ASME ND Note: some of the files mentioned in these PDF documents are loaded with File Open AutoPIPE model (*.DAT) or File Model Management Open Archive systemname.APC system commands. Modeling In AutoPIPE: The following list contains detailed information about specialized modeling techniques with AutoPIPE: Piping: Model Different Types of PIPING  (i.e. Coated, Corroded, Corrugated, Jacketed, etc...) Model Different Types of PIPING Components  (i.e Tee, Bend, Reducer, Flange, Flexible Joint, Valve, etc..) Model Non-metallic Plastic Piping (i.e. Plastic, PVC, PP, PPR, HDPE, PE, FRP, GRP, etc.) Model a Ring Main (circular header) Offshore and Underground Piping Model Subsea (Underwater) Piping Modeling Offshore Piping per BS8010 or CSAZ662 section 11 Piping Codes Model Soil Properties (Underground Piping) Equipment , Supports, and Structure Model Compressor piping Modeling Vessels/ Nozzle Model Supports & Beam (Frames) Load: Model Seismic Analysis Model Buckling Modeling Slug flow Model Concentrated Forces Model Wind Sway On A Pipe Rack Model Vacuum Piping Model Fluid Density Modeling Thermal Bowing Commands: Cut / Copy / Paste / Rotate / Move / Stretch Commands Miscellaneous Modeling approach to account for piping beyond scope of work area Apply More Than 1 Piping Code In an AutoPIPE Model 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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Modeling Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group 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. Anchor Bends Cuts: Cold Spring            Flexible Joints   Frames  Hangers  Nozzles   Pipes Reducers   Rotating Equipment Supports  Tees  Valves  Vessels  What are some additional modeling approaches, tips and techniques for different types of piping components? PIpe Tees  and branch fittings (weldolet, sockolet, etc..) Flanges Bends Flexible Joints Reducers Valves Victaulic Couplings Nozzle GrayLoc Connector    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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Modeling Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group 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. Anchor Bends Cuts: Cold Spring            Flexible Joints   Frames  Hangers  Nozzles   Pipes Reducers   Rotating Equipment Supports  Tees  Valves  Vessels  Comments, Questions, and Answers: Item #1 For flexible joints, how to apply define coefficient of thermal expansion, and where it is defined? Answer: The flexible joint will have an effect on the thermal movement of the pipe based on the stiffness specified on the flexible joint dialog screen. In addition, translation of thermal movement can be accomplished by adding a axial restraint across the flexible joint. Another words, a flexible joint itself does not undergo any thermal expansion/contraction i.e. no thermal properties are applied to the joint itself.  As seen in the online help: Flexible joints are modeled as a one-point lumped spring expanded into a two-point spring element. Item #2: Where can I input the material of the flexible joint? Answer: AutoPIPE lets the user define the stiffness terms of the flexible joint directly so no material property definition is needed. Therefore the following 4 statements are true for Flexible Joints: A. No thermal expansion is applied to the joint B. No material property is applied to the joint. C. Code stress color plot does not apply to flex joints.  D. Hoop stress or other code calculations does not seem to be calculated for flexible joint. Item #3: Wh en modeling the Tied-belows example using Tie/Link supports. The tie/links allow the pipe to move father apart than the length of the tie/link. Answer: Correct a tie/link support does not maintain arc swing length. However, they do maintain the distance between tie rod ends where the main control function is to maintain the flanges parallel. No program including Caesar will arc tie rods and even if it does would be insignificant change in the expansion joint behavior. Item #4: Can you send me an example model of a bellows than what is available in the online help: Answer: yes, see the following: http://communities.bentley.com/products/pipe_stress_analysis/m/pipe_stress_analysis_gallery/260260.aspx Item #5: How do I model Flex / Braided hose: Answer: Flex hoses are typically so flexible that it is like a break in the pipe with no transfer of force or moment therefore a simple axial bellows with low stiffnesses in all degrees of freedom. Unless the the manufacturer can provide some stiffness values. Suggest using 1 or multiple flexible joints back to back with tie rods as required.  If no stiffness is given, I would recommend using a zero stiffness for the flexible joint, but due to possible instability, you would need to provide a small non-zero value, e.g. 1 lb/in. I would also recommend that you set the pressure area to zero. You may be able to check for bending radius if you calculate an equivalent angle. Frame elements may be used, but flexible joints are easier in this case. For frame you would need to enter non-standard section properties instead of stiffness. Note: remember that AutoPIPE cannot handle large deformation and forces/moments are based on original un-deformed geometry.  Item #6: When modeling a flexible hose, what is the most realistic way to model the curved flex hose. Using 1 flex joint, 2 flex joints or many flex joints? Answer: Keep in mind what a flexible hose is doing, as mentioned above "it is like a break in the pipe with no transfer of force or moments". Therefore you can model it using a single flexible joint or using multiple flexible joints where both approaches would use very low Axial, Bending, and Shear stiffness values. Assuming the stiffness values used are very low, then both modeling approaches would be valid. The only major difference between them would be the CG location of the hose. Depending on the hose size, it may need to be considered. Thus giving a slight edge to using multiple flexible joints when modeling a hose (assuming you know the exact path of the flexible hose during operating load cases). Note: 1. When inserting a flexible joint be aware of the stiffness directions and how that affects the connected pipe. Example, using a single flexible joint, axial stiffness is acting along the line of the connected points. Using low values as mentioned above, should not affect the results very much. However, if for what ever reasons axial stiffnesses are higher, it could affect how the connect pipe moves during load case combinations. 2. If modeling multiple flexible joints back to back. Consider adding a short bend pipe between the joints to reduce the occurrence of warnings (i.e. W726-8:  Kink in straight run ...). Item #7: On the flexible joint dialog screen, "Pressure thrust area" From the online help: This is the effective cross section area, usually based on the mean diameter of the convolutions of the expansion joint. It is multiplied by the internal pressure to obtain the axial thrust due to internal pressure. This thrust is used if a rigorous pressure extension analysis is requested." If I understand this text correctly, this thrust means a force that has to be applied to the pipe at both ends of the expansion joint due to the pressure in the pipe. The direction of this force is axial and away from expansion joint. Please confirm my understanding. Also,  how do perform a "rigorous pressure extension analysis" in AutoPIPE Answer:   Correct - a force is applied in each direction. Please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Search Tab enter "rigorous pressure" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the " Include Axial, Pcase in Sustained"  topic from the list provided to see more information on this option. Item #8: How to model a Penetration Seal Bellows Joint in Autopipe (see image below). This Seal Bellow Joint is welded to a pipe at one end, and to a seal plate wall penetration at the other end. The pressure inside the Penetration Seal Bellows is P(PSB)= 0.1 MPa, and the pressure inside the pipe is P(Pipe)= 3 MPa. The Penetration Seal Bellows Joint must be able to accommodate both the axial (DX), vertical (DY), horizontal (DZ) displacements, and the angular/torsional (RX) rotations.   Answer: Using the same techniques used from modeling Jacketed piping: 1.  insert a set of node points on the existing pipeline exactly where the Flexible joint is to be modeled, (ex A175 and A180) 2.  Select node point that matches wall location.(ex. A175), insert a new Segment (ex. C), offset from A175, a small distance (ex. 0.01 ft). with a new PIPEid. 3. Insert a new PIpeID that matches the size of the expansion joint, (ex "14std"). 4. insert Flexible Joint  (ex C00 to C01) that matches the same distance as as previous node point set (ex. A175 to A180). Finish entering the correct settings as needed for the flexible joint dialog and press OK button. 5. Insert a Rigid beam between end point on flexible joint to main pipeline. (ex. C01 to A180). 6. Select First node point on flexible joint (ex. C00), insert rigid anchor. 7. Done, should look something like this: Item #8 How to model a Hyspan Barco Ball Joint? Answer: Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:  Help Contents Contents Tab Modeling Approaches Modeling Approaches Flexible Joints  Ball and Socket Joint example in AutoPIPE's online help. 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! Include Axial, Pcase in Sustained Anchor Bends Cuts: Cold Spring            Flexible Joints   Frames  Hangers  Nozzles   Pipes Reducers   Rotating Equipment Supports  Tees  Valves  Vessels 

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Enhancements Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group   What AutoPIE enhancements have already been logged and which ones are on your most wanted enhancements to be added to the next version of AutoPIPE: AutoPIPE Enhancements Logged  AutoPIPE's Most Wanted AutoPIPE Error Reports       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!

Applies To Product(s): ADL PIPE Version(s): all Environment: N/A Area: Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Comments, Questions, and Answers about ADL Pipe: Item #1: When trying to run the following marcro file with the indicated ADL PIPE model they system works fine when connected to the internet but does not function correctly when the system is disconnected. ADLPOST MFC application has encountered a problem and needs to close. We are sorry for the inconvenience. If you were in the middle of something, the information you were working on might be lost. For more information abou this error, click here. Close Why is that being displayed and how to fix it? Answer:   First, ADL Pipe is not concerned with being connected or disconnected from the internet. The program was developed long before the internet was widely available. Again connected or disconnected to the internet is not an issue. The only massively import parameters are : A. The model files are in correct folder location. B. The macro files are in correct folder location. C. All the files involved have the correct file extensions. D. A valid HASP dongle is connected to a functional serial port on the back of the computer. The message is being displayed because a command issued to ADL Pipe caused it to crash. Thus, displaying the message. Trouble shooting: 1. Is the ADL Pipe dongle on the back of the computer, plugged firmly into a serial port? 2. Is there serial port working properly? Confirm this with various control panel commands or try to print a document through the serial port to a printer. If printed, then yes the serial port is working.  3. Were the hasp drivers installed?  Go to the following Web site, download and install the correct HASP drivers for your computer: http://www.aladdin.com/support/hasp/enduser.aspx 4. If installing ADL pipe for first time, be sure that you followed the Readme.TXT file: (1) Install ADLPIPE 4F10.1 (2) Copy adlpipe.exe (4F10.2C5) to to replace installed adlpipe.exe (4F10.1) file (3) If c:\windows\system32\dformd.dll does not exist,  copy dformd.dll to C:\windows\system32 (4) Install latest version of HASP driver from: 5. The file extensions for all models and macros is *.ADI, do not use any other file extension (i.e. CMR, TXT, DOC, etc..). 6. Are the files in the correct folder locations? Model files should be in the following folder locations: Pre-Processor: C:\ ADLPIPE10\ IN\ ADL\ ADI Post-Processor: C:\ ADLPIPE10\ OUT\ ADL\ ADO Macro Files are only used by the Post Processor and should be in the following folder location: C:\ ADLPIPE 10\ IN\ PST\ PSI 7. Confirm the files referenced in the Marco have the correct name and file extension? 8. Confirm the ADL Pipe model files referenced by the Macro can be processed manually. 8. Verify all the commands in the macro are correct. Suggest truncating the macro file until runs with out error, and then slowly add lines until it no longer works. Thus narrowing in on the problem with in the macro file. After following all these tips, the model and macro should perform as written. If they did not resolve the issue, please contact TSG for further support.  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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: documents Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Problem: Are there any AutoPIPE manuals available that can be sent to me? Answer: In order to help the save environment, Bentley no longer produces printed application manuals. All the data that would have been in these manuals are now available in the application’s electronic on-line Help utility. This allows the user to quickly search based on key words or navigate through a table of contents listing to find information faster than flipping through multiple volumes of books. AutoPIPE's on-line help covers many topics: On-line help manual Video tutorial Rss news Feed Reference Workbook manual on modeling approaches and example systems with complete step-by-step procedure + analysis calculations: Anchors  Pipes Bends Reducers Cuts Rotating Equipment Flexible Joints Supports Frames Tees Hangers Valves Nozzles Vessels PipeSOIL Interaction: Transition Example Water Hammer (Time History) Example Steam Relief (Time History) Example Harmonic Analysis Example In addition, more technical literature is available in the programs installation folder, “C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\” search for *.PDF files (including all sub-folders). Furthermore, if you attend an official Bentley Institute Training class, the trainer provides additional in depth training manuals based on the topics covered in class that are not available by any other means.  A plug for training, no matter how long you have been using the application (1 hour - xx years), all level of AutoPIPE user will learn new information, tips, tricks, etc.. from attending any training class. Remember the CAE development team is constantly updating the application with new features (50+ new features in v.09.06.00.15 alone). Attending a training class, users will learn about features pertaining to the class subject matter and how to correctly use them in order to take full advantage of the program. Plus, the added bonus of having a live instructor to answer any questions about the application.   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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Interface Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Note: detailed information about AutoPIPE's interface can be found in the following file installed with the program: AutoPIPE V8i 09.05.xx and lower: C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\apdoc.pdf AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.xx and higher: C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\AutoPIPE_Tutorial.pdf INTERFACE: The AutoPIPE interface is designed to simplify the task of creating, modifying, and reviewing models of any complexity. Take some time to familiarize yourself with AutoPIPE’s interface by examining the areas of the screen annotated below. Note: the units for any dialog field entry is always located in the lower right hand corner of the application screen, as shown above. If this field is blank, the unit value is dimensionless. The displayed units are dependent upon the specified library located underTools Model Options General Units file name - Input: / Output. ENTERING DATA INTO DIALOG SCREENS: One of the main interfaces in AutoPIPE is by entering data into many of the programs dialog screens. These dialog screens are dynamically interactive; meaning that there is a specific order in which the dialog expects data to be entered, this sequence of data / options selected / check boxes may convert subsequent dependent fields to be Grayed-out / Close or become Un-grayed / Open to allow a user to enter data. The best method for interfacing with any of AutoPIPE's dialog screens is by using the Keyboard "Tab" key.  When a dialog screen appears, press TAB key to progress through the pre-determined sequence of field selection; when on a specific field, enter data as required. This will ensure that the program is getting the correct information in an order to dynamically adjust the dialog based on the selection / check boxes  / data entered. If you encounter a problem on a dialog, please log a service request using the following procedure . KEYBOARD EQUIVALENTS: As you begin creating a model, you’ll soon become familiar with AutoPIPE’s use of dialogs to gather information from the user. Although the mouse can be used to navigate through the fields of a dialog, many users prefer the keyboard alternatives. Refer to the table below.   UNDERSTANDING THE ACTIVE POINT: After defining and inserting a segment, you’ll notice that a small cross-hair appears in the drawing area. This cross-hair represents the currently active point. The active point is also displayed in the status area immediately below the drawing area (see image above). When placing components, you should remain aware of the active point. After selecting a component type for insertion, AutoPIPE will automatically assume that you want the starting point of the component to be inserted at the active point. By default, AutoPIPE will increment the point to the next value and concatenate this with the letter that defines the current segment. For example, if you are inserting a run point on Segment A that contains nothing but an anchor point, the Run Point dialog will contain the value A01 in the Name of Point field. MODIFICATION OF PIPING GEOMETRY: It is not necessary for a piping system to be defined completely in a single AutoPIPE session, because AutoPIPE allows a wide variety of additions, deletions, and changes to be made. In particular: 1. New segments can be added at any time. 2. Previously defined segments can be extended at any time. 3. Existing segments can be modified, or can be deleted and replaced. 4. A complete system, or sections of a system, can be copied within the same job or between separate jobs with automatic renumbering. 5. Components can be inserted, deleted, or modified at any time. EXECUTING A COMMAND: Commands can be executed in one of three ways: .. Click on one of the buttons in a toolbar. .. Select a command from the menu system .. Key-in the command. The hotkey for each command is underlined in the menu system. As an example, to insert a bend, simply type I to go into insert mode, then B . The key-in command option requires memorization of certain hotkeys, but is an extremely efficient method of input. See Apdoc.PDF indicated above for more valuable information. Segments: The model is divided into Segments which is helpful to identify and select different parts of the model. Typically, a new segment means a new branch. Segments have a direction - learn this. It is critical for insertion of points, and for interpretation of output results. Also, using View/Segment menu, users can turn on and off segments for viewing and making changes to the model. Using the Select Segment icon, users can select by segment. Segment modeling tips to minimize the total number of segments and facilitate making modifications later. Note : A header, where possible should be coded as one segment. All branches should be separate unique continuous segments and avoid coding the same segment through the header to the branch or vice-versa. Unique segments should be coded from Tee to Tee or Equipment anchor to Tee or Anchor to Anchor or Manifold header Start to End. Avoid junction points i.e. 2 connecting segments in a straight pipe run. Pipe Identifiers: A segment can be made up of multiple pipe identifiers where a pipe identifier contains all the properties of the pipe for example; pipe size, schedule, insulation, material etc. Therefore to change a property like pipe material use Modify properties of pipe identifier. To define completely different properties of a section of the model like new pipe size, use Select Range (selected points = highlighted RED) then use Modify Pipe Properties Over Range... , an existing pipe identifier can be selected from the drop-down list or ENTER a new 8 character name. Inserting An Intermediate Point Or Multiple Points Between Existing Points: Click once on the point either before or after where you want to insert. TC Click the "Pipe Run" icon. NOTES: The Pipe run icon has a field for "Generate Points" (see below). Type the number of intermediate points and length (a default length will be shown e.g. 1 point = midpoint between 2 existing run points) between them if more than 1. You can add a single point or multiple points either After (After is default) or Before an existing point. Before and After refers to the segment direction which the model is built. HINT : Very useful for quickly creating equally spanned support points on a pipe rack. Changing Offset Lengths: If you check the box "Apply offset to all following points", it will do exactly that. For example; if change the offset from 3 to 10 then all downstream points move the same change in offset = 7. If you don't check this option, it "slides" the point without changing the overall length of the system. Try clicking on a run point and changing offsets both ways to see for yourself. See screen below: HINT : This function is also available from the right click menu in the Point Input grid. Zoom: The fastest way to zoom is to create a box window by holding down left mouse key and dragging over the area to be zoomed, then right mouse click once to zoom. This is way faster than having to click on the zoom icon each time. NOTES : Use dynamic zoom by right mouse click once to change the cursor from Pan (hand) to Zoom (magnifying glass) to Rotate. Also use the mouse scroll wheel for fast dynamic zoom on the mouse cursor. Also Zoom topic above. Like CAD - 4 or 2 or 1 viewport can have different zoom settings which are saved when the model is closed. So when model is opened again - screen settings are at the same location as when the session was closed. Navigating: For navigating on the graphics model itself to go from point to point, use mouse clicks or use the arrow keys to navigate through the model . Arrow keys are often faster than mouse clicking. For dialog screens, use the tab key to progress to the next field, Shift Tab to go back to a previous field, or mouse click to go to any desired field. To close a dialog, it's usually faster to press the Enter key instead of mouse clicking the OK box. To Check Model Connectivity: Use the left and right keyboard arrow keys to move the cursor along the pipe from point to point. If the cursor stops but looks like more piping then use the up/down arrow keys to ‘jump' to the next segment (segment name changes at bottom right corner) while the point name stays the same. If the cursor does not jump to the next segment then this point is a ‘free' end point and disconnected from the remaining model. At a tee point use the up/down arrow keys to ‘jump' to the branch or header segment - the tee arrows will highlight red to indicate whether the cursor is on the branch or header side. NOTE: A tee point may have 2 or 3 segments intersecting it. HINT: Use AutoPIPE's V8i new Connectivity Checker, which will scan the model and check for points within a node tolerance that are not connected along a segment.     In addition, AutoPIPE V8i 9.4 and higher added a new feature under Select Connected Segments See Online help for details on this feature. Selection Sets: Not available in other Pipe Stress programs. Just as with Microsoft Word or other windows applications, you first ‘select' what needs to be modified, then they modify it. Modifications are the same in AutoPIPE. With AutoPIPE, there a number of ways to select ranges: click on one end, then hold shift key down and click on the other end. The Select Segment tool allows you to select by segment The Select menu allows you to select by component (for example, select only flange points, or flex joints). Select single points using the Ctrl key. Selection sets can also be used for inserting or deleting across ranges of points or components. Examples: Paste across ranges, insert or delete supports across range, insert User SIF for all bends or Tees, Insert soil or distributed loads across range or modify temperature & pressure for range. Selection sets are very important in using AutoPIPE. HINT : If you don't understand selection sets, you're not efficiently using AutoPIPE. Use the Shift key to select multiple, continuous points. Use the CTRL key to select multiple, non-continuous points: AutoPIPE allows you to select Ranges or Component Groups and apply Loads, Supports, Soil, and many kinds of data to those selections, instead of having to simply modify one element at a time. View Color Plot or Other Information on the Model Graphics.... AutoPIPE V8i 9.5 and higher The new feature enables the user view a color plot or pop-up information in a multitude of different styles: Properties: Point Names, Beam Names, Point Symbol, Length, Support Tag Components : Valve, Flange, Tee Xtra Data: Weight, Concentrated Forces, Imposed Displacements, Thermal Anchor Movements, Joint Type, User Weld Efficiency Factor, Point Static Earth Quake Factor, Reference Point, Gross Discontinuity [available ASME NB code only] Color Plot: Design Temperature [available ASME NB/NC/ND codes only], Design Pressure [available ASME NB/NC/ND codes only], Operating Temperature, Operating Pressure, Delta T1 [available ASME NB code only], Delta T2 [available ASME NB code only], Hydrodynamic Data, Member Static Earth Quake Factor, Pipes with Rigid Options, Soil Properties, Pipe Insulation, Center of Gravity, Segments Pipe Properties: Pipe Identifier, Material, Schedule, Nominal Diameter, Actual OD, Thickness, Corrosion, Insulation Thickness, Clad Thickness, Filter Pipe Properties Show Connected Segments: Select this TAB to toggle on/off the display of all or individual segment groups. Attention: see online help for details on this feature. If you are experiencing difficulty viewing color plots, you can change contrasting legends on-the-fly. Simply double-click an legend color to dynamically change it. AutoPIPE V8i 9.4 and Lower: AutoPIPE enables users to graphically view the model by Pipe diameter, schedule, wall thickness, pipe material, Pipe identifier, etc. There is also the option to filter using Boolean logic (e.g view all 6" and schedule 40 pipe in the model). Check this feature out as it is very useful for checking and verifying input. Select  View Show Pipe Properites ... Specify the pipe criteria. The viewport is given a legend with the pipes displayed. Point Properties/Global Coordinates Tool: Try it, it’s useful to check pipe properties, temperatures/pressures, and global coordinates on a given point. By clicking on different points, this screen stays up, and users can quickly check their model   Select any point of interest. Click the View Point Properties  Global Coordinates  tool (Shortcut Key: F3) The Point Properties dialog appears. This dialog is dynamically updated if a different point is selected in the main window. Try it, it's useful to check pipe properties, temperatures/pressures, and global coordinates on a given point. By clicking on different points, this screen stays up, and users can quickly check their model. Keyboard Hot Keys - Very Useful & FAST!!! AutoPIPE's menus have one letter underlined. The Insert menu, for example is probably, the most useful. By typing I then R you insert a run, I B = insert bend, I V = insert valve. After inputting your data, it's always faster pressing the Enter key instead of clicking OK. Another useful hot key is Ctrl T to graphically view temperatures. Modifying A Point Where There Exists Multiple Components Even a support point has both a run point and a support at the same point. First, left mouse click once on the point you want to modify to make it the ‘active' point. Next, right mouse click on the toolbar icon button of the component you wish to modify. For example, if you want to modify run point location to "slide" the support location, right mouse click over pipe run toolbar icon to change offsets. To modify a support, right mouse click over the toolbar support icon. Alternatively, to modify supports, double-click on the end of the support symbol itself on the graphics model. NOTES : If 2 or more supports at one point then if it is difficult to double click on the support then click on the point then use Ctrl + Q (clear all selected points), use modify/support and a drop down list will appear with all the supports at the current point. Alternatively modify the support using the support grid. Similarly to delete a component, click on it to highlight RED then press the Delete key or click on the delete toolbar icon Save And Reuse Common Piping And Support Configurations Between Jobs Use AutoPIPE's graphical copy/paste capabilities to store commonly used pipe configurations (pump stations for different services, for example, or common vessel configurations) or complicated expansion joints or commonly used support structures using AutoPIPE's beam/frame elements. Just copy & paste from one job to another. NOTE : The models must be in the same directory. Open 2 side by side sessions of AutoPIPE then copy/paste from one model to the other OR into the same model. This is one of the most powerful features in AutoPIPE. Define all the pipe identifiers for a project for the different pipe sizes, insulation, corrosion and material in one template model then use this to start a new model using already the already pre-defined pipe properties. Do not have to redefine these pipe properties again saving time and mistakes. Using Copy/paste + Move command are powerful tools to template and recreate similar identical plant configurations from one project to the next. Input Grids Very powerful for reviewing the data and making global changes  to the input grid e.g. select multiple cells or complete column to change support friction, enter the value = 0.3 then press CTRL + Enter. Notice grayed out cells are not updated. Note :  All Grids are dynamically synchronized bi-directionally with the graphic plot. Select a cell or group of cells and make a change – immediately see the change on the plot and vice versa. If click on a component on the plot this will place the arrow cursor on the row in the   current grid . To make global changes on cells with drop-down lists e.g. support type first select all cells then hold CTRL key and click on any of the cells to select the new item then CTRL + Enter to apply to all selected cells. Note : Multiple cells can be changed across different columns provided it is ‘like-data’ e.g. all support gaps or all offsets Hint : To try to different support configurations e.g. try 3 springs instead of Vstop's as shown below.  Select the supports in the Grid then hold the CTRL key down and select spring from the drop down list for one cell in the range then press Enter. Like Excel select columns then right click to hide or unhide them Sorting : Double click the header of any column (cursor shown as downward arrow); to sort the data into logical groups e.g. support types. To restore the default sort order double click on the top leftmost cell. Hint:  This is very useful to find mistakes in the data e.g. incorrect support type, friction or gaps. Modify:  To modify a component data through the dialog – double-click the row for the component. Delete:  To delete a component – click on the row and press the Delete key or click on the Delete toolbar icon Selecting:  Selecting cells or rows in any grid will Select /highlight those components on the graphic plot which can provide an accurate method of selecting components compared to graphical ‘point and click’ method. This also enables multiple random selections made by first holding the CTRL key down and mouse selecting the rows or cells – same as MS Excel. Zooming the Grid:  Any grid can be zoomed In or Out by holding the CTRL key and pushing the mouse scroll wheel forward or backward. Mouse Right-Click menu:  Useful functions like undo/redo, selecting All/Clear, copy/paste and custom printing available. Other productive features of Excel-like Grids Printing  any grid to one page, other options to customize the header and footer with model and company information Use Tee Grid as SIF Calculator What Tee types will give a satisfactory stress? - Use Tee Grid as SIF calculator to make a quick check. Soil Identifiers are Templates from Model to Model Like Pipe Identifiers, Soil Identifiers can be a template and used over and over again in the model without having to re-define the properties Working on Large Models - Filter nodes for viewing Avoid time in finding and scrolling through lots of data for large models, instead  select and isolate a few segments to work on, troubleshoot and/or display results for using: AutoPIPE V8i 09.02.xx.xx and higher: On the Input Grids Select the Segment Tab "Show" column, toggle On / Off respective segments names for viewing. AutoPIPE XM v.09.01.xx.xx and lower: View Segments or View Show all components will display all segments again AutoPIPE V8i 09.02.xx.xx and higher:   AutoPIPE XM v.09.01.xx.xx and lower:   Isolate and Show On-screen results for Segment B only V8i Edition or later use new one-click toolbar icons to show/hide selected or unselected Segment. Isolate segments for editing and viewing results in large models. Menu Equivalent: Edit  Segments  Hide Selected / Hide Unselected / Show All Procedure: Select segment(s), press respective icon button on toolbar or use menu equivalent.    Working on Combined Structural & Piping models Insert Section Properties, select the steel sections from the libraries to be used in the model… called Section ID's Insert Frame, to insert a new beam into the model. Note: Beam assemblies can be copy/pasted into the model (connected or unconnected)…useful for independent pipe rack portal frames. To Modify piping only, first turn off the Frame members using View Hide Components (select Beam). Alternatively make the beams transparent (However while good for viewing the beams can still accidentally be selected when modifying the piping) Distance Calculator as a Productive Tool Use the graphical distance calculator to check distances and clearances between pipe to pipe or pipe to structure Tools Distance or Select the distance icon on the View toolbar. Point and Click the TO and the From point. Don't have to enter the point name. Note: The DX, DY, or DZ offsets can be read or copy/pasted to Excel or text file Renumbering of Point Names Renumber either by Segment or across the complete model using following menu (Toolbar icon also available): Select Edit Renumber Segment... to renumber a single Segment or Edit Renumber All Points to renumber the entire model If Segments was selected, a dialog appears for selecting which segment to be renumbered. Enter a pre-defined segment and then click Select. Click Finish To change the point numbering options: Select Tools Model Options Edit . The Edit Model Options dialog appears. For the Default point name format, select either Alphanumeric or Numeric.     Note: Alphanumeric is automatically by segment name (e.g. A00, A01, etc. for Segment A). This can be easier to identify different parts of the model later. Select the Replace all point names on renumber option if you want manually entered point names (e.g. PS01) to be renumbered as well. Click OK Note : Use renumbering when lots of intermediate points are inserted into the model so numbering becomes sequential again Utilizing the Move / Stretch Command  New user are not aware of the power the come from the various Edit drop down listing, Like the ability to create a whole new pipe line adjacent to the existing one without having to insert each node point. see the following Link: Move / Stretch Command Inserting a new pipe segment based on another node point in the model Insert a segment offset from any point or Origin, useful for building new branch pipeline or another pipe on a rack. Insert Segment, DX = 2, B00 offset from point A13 Insert Run DX = 4 Insert Run, 3 points @ 4' spacing Create 2nd Pipe Run Similar To The First - Copy / Paste / Edit Move Stretch Users can select one point, or a range of points, and “stretch” the point or range of points, automatically changing cut lengths of the connections. Also, the Edit Move Stretch can “slide” a component or group of components with or without changing the overall length of the system. This capability if very useful for “sliding” supports, valves, control station assemblies, expansion joint assemblies, frame assemblies from one position to another. Another good use is for pipe rack piping, copy/paste one line and offset from existing line then any changes in any direction can be made using Edit Move /Stretch command.   Copy the segment then paste using the offset options shown below either from origin or from any other selected frame or piping point in the model.   Place cursor at B06 and insert a bend Select range below & move DX = -2 Select Range below and move DZ = -2 Select Range below and DY = -2. It is done 2 parallel pipelines routed using copy/paste and move commands   Easy to understand Component Symbols   Rendered Support Graphics Show Realistic Support Arrangements to Clients, Contractors or CAD Designers.  Use transparent setting for pipe - Jacketed Piping  Easily create the Jacket by using the graphical Select and copy / paste functions. Select the range of carrier pipe including valves, flanges, reducers etc and pasting then connecting back onto itself… covered in advanced training Flanges In AutoPIPE, Flanges are a 1 point element with no length i.e. considers only the flange weight and type of weld connection to pipe for SIF calculation. Yes, assuming flange stiffness is same as the pipe is technically incorrect because a flange is more rigid than pipe, but no, it doesn’t affect analysis results to any significant extent in most cases. Cases you may wish to model the rigid length of the flange would be in a short stiff piping arrangement or close to equipment like pumps. If you want to input flange length, insert a pipe run and insert flanges at the mating point then select this short length and use Insert Rigid options over Range (Include Weight = off, Include Thermal Expansion = off…pipe will be shown purple). AutoPIPE’s flange screen has option to do ANSI flange loading check.  3x Diameter or Larger Sweep Elbows AutoPIPE’s Bend Point dialogue screen (above example) has a Bend radius field which defaults to Long radius with pull down option for short radius. You can either select short radius or, for a large sweep elbow, click once on the Bend radius field and type the actual radius (units are in bottom right hand corner of screen) Guide Support A guide support in AutoPIPE is different than Caesar's guide element - it's equal to Caesar's 2 supports (guide and Y stop). In AutoPIPE, a guide supports the pipe in the vertical and lateral directions but not axial. Users can input gaps to remove vertical support or other directions if required. A guide support in AutoPIPE is always normal to the local pipe axis, so if the pipe is rotated the guide stays normal to the pipe which is very useful also when guides on skewed pipe. Note: Large gap will not display the support symbol in that direction for convenience. Inserting Valves, Reducers or other Components after Elbow or Tee AutoPIPE does not allow users to insert a component directly after an elbow without first inputting a run point from the tangent intersection point to the end of the elbow. This means that there will be 2 points, a bend point and a run point, at the same location. This is not so unreasonable since AutoPIPE’s elbow dimension is based on the tangent intersection point. For inserting valves and other components directly after a tee, AutoPIPE requires that the user first input a run of pipe after the tee before inserting the component to model the leg of the tee. Tee Types Quickly check Tee Types on the plot using the Show Tee button. Three Way Valves In putting three way valves in AutoPIPE is a bit convoluted at this time. AutoPIPE does not allow users to branch from a valve, so here is what you have to do: Divide the valve into 3 pieces, length and weight divided, and input them as separate valves, but put very short dummy runs of rigid pipe (select ‘rigid’ as pipe data identifier) in between the valves and at the branch.  Convert the run points to a Tee using the “convert run to tee” icon/button. See below what it should look like: Scale of Componnets If you wish to change the scale of supports or other components for proffered viewing, you can do so from the View Settings dialog. Viewports Switch between Single / Double or Quad viewports to easily work in a view which is convenient then switch back to single view. Viewports are available for editing the model AND viewing results e.g. code stresses in plan, iso and elevation views as below: Viewports are saved even when a model is closed and then re-opened.   Node Numbering: Alphanumeric node numbering by segments - easy to identify which nodes relate to which parts / line numbers of the model. Adjust automatic numbering with Tools Model Options Edit "Default point name format", "Default point name offset", and/or "Replace all point names on renumber" command options. Undo / Redo command Pipe Stress Work involves lots of Iterations, 99 levels of Undo / Redo are available at all times in AutoPIPE such that different support configurations can be tried and if stresses or equipment loads are worse then can easily revert back to some previous state. However, in other applications (i.e. Caesar) undo/redo is always lost when exit the INPUT module.   Distance Calculator as a Productive Tool Use the graphical distance calculator to check distances and clearances between pipe to pipe or pipe to structure. Select Tools Distance or click the distance icon on the View toolbar. Point and Click the TO and the From point. You don't have to enter the point name. The DX, DY, and DZ offsets as well as the straight-line distance are displayed in the status bar: HINT : The DX, DY, or DZ offsets can be read or copy/pasted to Excel or text file Graphical Point Editing Caesar users are used to looking at the model, then reading and entering the point name. In AutoPIPE like CAD use point and click, point names are automatically taken care of. Productivity Example - Add a Support AutoPIPE Caesar Click on the Support Point Select Support Type (Friction & Gaps) Look at the Graphic Plot & Read Point Name Go to the data sheet Click on the Restraint Option Enter the Point Name Select Support Type (Friction & Gaps) 2 way gaps permitted all supports Guide - Both Horiz. + Vertical Only 1 gap permitted 2 supports required for Guide + Y Wind Loads When specifying elevations wind load profile, remember to check ground elevation is correctly defined on the main Wind screen. This applies also to wind loadings to ASCE-7 and UBC. Opening older models a warning message “negative elevations found” may indicate an incorrect wind loading across this model. Comprehensive Automatic Code Combinations VCR buttons allow fast navigation to sorted multiple maximum stresses across multiple stress categories including maximum sustained stress, thermal range and all occasional stress combinations which Caesar does not calculate automatically. Code Combination Comparison AutoPIPE Stress Plot Caesar Stress Plot Thermal case 1 to 4 What stress case is Row 18-21? AutoPIPE Benefits: Clear Stress Plots Automatically Sorted Max Stress for all combinations Click & Point for all Results Automatic Thermal ranging & occasional stress combinations If you want AutoPIPE to automatically create operating load combinations for support loads and displacements, go to Tools/Combinations and click the option Add default NonCode Combination , as shown below: Combinations for load cases are also created by default but can be unselected for printing   Create User Defined Combinations: Select the Tools Combinations to define a new, user-defined code or Non-code compliance combination or modify an existing one. A user-defined combination may consist of any existing load case and/or code compliance combination; however, a combination cannot be included in itself. Example: Create a User defined Min / Max Combination for Support Loads and Deflections Go to Tools User Defined Comb. /NonCode menu. Give the combination name as e.g. Max Comb Combination method is  9 Sign Max  (which ignores the sign of loads and deflections). Next, select the Case/comb for GR and your operating combinations, ignoring the theoretical loads of T1, W1, etc. Now check your output results for Support report, Deflections, or Restraint summary to see the new Max Comb results that you have created. See example below: Note: Sign Max and Res Max (Resultant Maximum) are 2 common methods to evaluating maximums from other load cases or combinations. Other methods used are Min and Max. See AutoPIPE online help for details on these features. Share User Defined Combinations between Models: In AutoPIPE, the combinations (code/non-code) for a model are stored in the *.cmb files. The option "Import combinations from file" allows the user to create the user combinations based on the user combinations from a different model. The option invokes a File Open dialog. The user can select a *.cmb file from a different model whose combinations are to be brought in the current model. The combinations can either be from code & non-code type. Command location: Under Tools Combinations Combination Options Import Combinations File  Nonlinear Load Sequencing Whenever you have a nonlinear analysis with gaps and/or friction, the sequence in which loads are analyzed affect analysis results because the “initial state” position is dependent on which loads were analyzed before. For example, Earthquake or Wind loads analyzed after T1 (wind hitting the operating position of the piping) may calculate different support loads than earthquake or wind loads calculated just after GR (wind hitting the ambient position of piping). When doing a nonlinear analysis, first select Loads Static Analysis Sets and check the option “Non-Linear”. Also refer to Load_Sequencing.pdf in the AutoPIPE XM program folder To define all non-linear options, modify the analysis set, and check the option “Gaps/Friction/Soil”, Click OK and the next screen appears, select the operating case to use for occasional loads like wind or seismic.   For more complicated load sequences uncheck the “Use Default Sequence” box to modify the Load sequence and Enter or click OK.  See following screen shot:     Reference Point to Evaluate Equipment Loads Insert Xtra data Reference Node Works in either Global or local coordinate systems. So anytime the nozzle is at a skewed angle to the vessel and the allowable loads at the nozzle are given relative to the nozzle axis then use the local coordinate axis system Note: Useful for evaluating in-line pump nozzles and manufacturer stated limits on vessels or equipment AutoPIPE Result Grids Provide powerful filtering and sorting of displacements, forces, support loads and stresses  Powerful Result Filtering This is a very powerful capability for isolating only the results you need. Example, using Result Filter criteria/Support, you can generate a report which only shows that supports which exceed 7,000 lb. Vertical load, or have pipe deflections at the support point which exceed 5” in the X, 1” in the Y, or 4” in the Z. Result filters not only save lots of time, they prevent errors from slipping through the cracks. Result filters can be combined with graphical select (Example: output report contains only the points in the graphically selected range which exceed user defined deflection criteria). You can also use the Result Filter criteria to satisfy a flange analysis, often engineers want to evaluate highly loaded flanges e.g. flanges with stress 7000 psi. Define the filter criteria as: Select Result/Filter criteria/Code stress, code stress option = checked, greater than 7000. Click OK will highlight all points meeting this criterion. Clear the selection set then Select/ flanges then Result output report, check both options “Limit results to highlighted points” & Apply Filter Criteria (Result Filter) to create a flange report with stresses 7000psi. Familiarize yourself with this useful capability Default Model Settings When starting a new model, AutoPIPE CAE development team has predetermined a set of default settings that may be OK for some user but not for all. However, you may find that in every model that you are constantly updating the same settings for every model. Wouldn't it be nice if the program could save some default settings for when a new model is started. Well it can using the following commands: 1. Tools Model Options Save defaults command. Help Contents Search Tab enter "Save Defaults" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information. From online help: "Options which are saved in the defaults file (AUTOPIPE.DFL) include the General, Edit, and Results Tools/Model Options dialogs" 2. Tools settings Support Using these commands will save time adjusting settings when a new model is created. However, there is another option, create a AutoPIPE template model file similar to what  most people do when using MS Word. To do this, first stat by creating a master folder for a project, create a new model, adjust all the model settings, create analysis sets, create combinations, insert commonly used pipe properties, insert soil properties etc... When completed, save the model using File Model Management Save Archive, with all options enabled (checked ON). This APC file is now your AutoPIPE start Template file.   When a new model needs to be created, copy the *.APC file from the project file to a new folder, Start AutoPIPE, select File Model Management Open Archive, select the APC file in the correct folder location, BAM!!! all the setting, pipe properties, etc.. are all ready, saving loads of time entering the same values and increasing accuracy of data entered (less human error entering data) .  Create as many template files as required for different projects. Note: AutoPIPE V8i 9.5 and higher can import model Combinations from another model. See "Import Combination File" command in AutoPIPE's online help for more details on this feature.   Understanding all the Model Option Settings This is IMPORTANT!!! AutoPIPE has a series of model settings that would aid in creation of a model, define the basic (control) parameters used for describing the piping model, user preferences, etc... Each of the listed items below can significantly change the program's interface and the program's output results. The user is urged to review the online help for all of these settings in each section to understand their behavior and affects in AutoPIPE. The following menu options are provided under Tools Model Options: General Model Options When a new model database is created, the user is automatically prompted with the General Model Options dialog, which permits the user to define the basic (control) parameters used for describing the new piping model. Project ID Prepared by Checked by 1st Approver 2nd Approver Piping Code Edition Use Appendix P (B31.3) Include ASME CC N-755-1 (HDPE) Seismic Level Lifetime (hrs) Lifetime monitoring system SIF Code Units file name - Input: / Output Vertical axis direction Ambient temperature Number of operating load conditions Libraries - Component / Material Description Select Tools Model Options Model Description to display the Model Description dialog, which enables the user to enter approximately 2 page (about 8000 characters with spaces) description of the piping system. GUID Select Tools Model Options GUID to display the Model GUID dialog.  The Model GUID dialog displays the globally unique identifier or GUID associated with the model.  The GUID is required for the data exchange solution PipeLink, which requires a unique identifier for every AutoPIPE element and model Edit Option AutoPIPE allows the user to establish and save defaults for controlling parameters like the number of significant decimals to allow when defining offset values. To open the Edit Model Options dialog, select Tools Model Options Edit . Digits after decimal for coordinates Default point name format Default point name offset Replace all point names on renumber Use feet-inches display format Mass points per span Cutoff frequency Use corroded thickness in all analyses Suppress analysis warning prompts Ignore flange effect on bend stiffness Distance L/D from flange/valve to bend Include Bourdon rotational effect Pipe radius for Bourdon calculation Coincident Node Tolerance (0-no check) Levels of Undo Rigid stiffness factor Flange bolt/nut weight factor Support Rigid Stiffness - Translation & Rotation Anchor Rigid Stiffness - Translation & Rotation Model Result Options The Tools Model Options Result command allows the user to customize system parameters which set the format for the batch report file (SYSNAME.OUT), the screen scale factor for deflected system plots (for interactive scanning, and pen plotter dumps), and various factors related to code stress calculations.  Format (Node/Combin) Force (Global/Local) Include axial force Overwrite output file Use nominal thickness Use nom. thk. for Hoop Set SUS SIF =1 no bends Single SIF at point Set Sus/Occ SIF = 1 Set Sus/Occ = 0.75i Include torsion Single SIF at tees Apply all K-factors Include results desc Include bend ovaling Include hoop bending Direct Shear (N/R/A) Total stress(Oct/Max) Apply modulus ratio Apply tee summation Sustain Margin (Y/N/E ) Use min. sustained margin Long. Pressure (P/A/M/N) Digits after decimal Displacement Scale Range reduction factor Weld efficiency factor Y Factor Design factor F Temperature derating factor Design Pressure factor Minimum Stress Ratio Hoop safety factor Long. safety factor Shear allowable factor Total allowable factor Interm. stress points No. of thermal ranges Include Max Range comb Use code case 178 Include Axial,Pcase in Sustained Use Alt Occ Allowable Apply circ w factor Use theoretical Sec Mod Show rigid tee stress Additional Fields for B31.3 2010 edition. Set Occasional SIF=0.75i Additional Fields for B31.4 Offshore and B31.8 Offshore. Hoop Design Factor - F1 Long. Design Factor - F2 Combined Dsgn Factor - F3 Additional Fields for CSA-Z662 Offshore. Func. Design Factor - F1 Func+Env Dsgn Factor - F2 Additional Fields for SNiP 2.05.06-85 Oil & Gas. Use Axial in Hoop Allow Additional Fields for EN13480 European code. Use min(f;fcr) for Hoop Additional Fields for ISO 14692 Set Hoop SIF = 1 (bends) Sustained Factor-f2 Sus.+Thermal Factor-f2 Occasional Factor-f2 Buried Pipe Result Model Options The buried pipe result model options dialog is used to specify the options required in calculating soil overburden loads and through wall bending stresses. The dialog is divided into three tabs: General, Adams et. al. and HDPE Piping. Circ. wall bending stress calculation method Soil input parameters set to be used for calculations Add Circ. Bending stress to Sustained Use min(Sh-SL, Sh-f) as sustained margin Ring Bucking allowable safety factor ASCE 2001 Display circ. wall bending & ring buckling in code compliance Thermal case used for seismic wave propagation load SAM case combined with seismic wave propagation Seismic + thermal allowable factor Display seismic + thermal combinations in code compliance Building settlement load case Display building settlement category in code compliance Save Defaults The Tools Model Options Save Defaults command allows the user to save all customized system parameters in the current model as defaults for all newly created models in the current directory using the File/New menu option. Options which are saved in the defaults file (AUTOPIPE.DFL) include the General, Edit, and Results Tools Model Options dialogs. If a new model is created in a working directory, the defaults file in the working directory will be used first. If the defaults file does not exist in the working directory, then the defaults file in the program directory (if existing) will be used instead.       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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: NewsFeed Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Comments, Questions, and Answers Q1. What is the AutoPIPE's RSS newsfeed and where can I access it from? Answer : RSS Rich Site Summary (originally RDF Site Summary, often dubbed Really Simple Syndication) is a family of web feed formats used to publish frequently updated works—such as blog entries, news headlines, audio, and video—in a standardized format. An RSS document (which is called a "feed", "web feed", or "channel") includes full or summarized text, plus metadata such as publishing dates and authorship. [wikipedia]. Bentley has created product RSS news feed that is accessed by first starting the application, select Help AutoPIPE News... the RSS newsfeed dialog should appear and automatically refresh to the current settings enabled (checked ON). There is a check box on this dialog, "Shows news at Startup", if this box is checked the RSS news feed window will pop-up every time the program is run. There are four categories of news offered through the AutoPIPE RSS news feed.  These categories include news from Bentley AutoPIPE, Bentley General, Bentley Education, and Bentley Release. Suggest that Bentley AutoPIPE and Bentley Release are enable (checked ON) as a minimum: Use the RSS newsfeed Settings Filter News tab to narrow the information presented or Advnaced tab for offline mode / auto refresh options.  Q2. What happens if the RSS news FEed is blank: Answer: Check to be sure that the internet is connected and working on the computer trying to connect. After Selecting Help AutoPIPE News Settings confirm that at least one FEED Url is selected, as shown above. Press the Refresh button IF your IT department put up a firewall that prevents communication with the RSS newsfeed, copy URL from the settings tab and Paste directly into internet web application (ex. Internet Explorer). Bentley AutoPIPE : http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/12167 Bentley General : http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/8929 Bentley Education : http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/12166 Bentley Releases:   http://feeds.rapidfeeds.com/12168    Q3. What about companies that have internet setting to not allow the RSS feed to function or have no internet connection. Answer :  Following is the procedure to view RSS feed on computers with no internet connection.  1. On computer #1, Start AutoPIPE, select Help AutoPIPE News when the RSS news feed dialog appears press Settings button and select the  Advanced tab. Find "Enable Offline mode" and check this option. The online ‘icon’ from the application will turn into offline red icon. 2. Close the dialog and turn off AutoPIPE. 3. Contact any AutoPIPE user or use a computer with AutoPIPE installed that has internet access to the RSS news feeds.  a. On the 2nd computer, start AutoPIPE, Select Help AutoPIPE News select the  Settings button, confirm all four Feed URLs have been checked ON as seen below, and press  Refresh button.   b. Go to the AutoPIPE install folder to locate the following files: C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ 1.xml 2.xml 3.xml 4.xml These files related to the repective RSS newsfeeds in the above image c. Copy and  transfer these 4 files to computer #1 that is offline. 5. On computer #1 that is set to offline, place this files into the AutoPIPE program folder: C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ 6. Restart AutoPIPE, select Help AutoPIPE News   It will show the news from the files imported from above.   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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE Version(s): V8i Environment: N/A Area: New Users Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Problem: AutoPIPE and Caesar are both 2 iconic programs that perform the same functions; Pipe Stress Analysis based on pipe arrangement, pipe properties, and applied loads. Although these applications have the same end goal, provide stress analysis results, they are different programs with different methodology. This WIKI is to help new users of AutoPIPE that had used Caesar before, but have now migrated to AutoPIPE.    Answer: Item #1:  1 of 2, most important differences between AutoPIPE & Caesar Non-linear Load Sequencing Explained Item #2:   2 of 2, most important differences between AutoPIPE & Caesar AutoPIPE vs Caesar load combinations Item #3: C-Node or Connecting Nodes in Caesar Item #4: Compare AutoPIPE Input Grids with Caesar Spreadsheets item #5: Dynamic Load questions : 1. Dynamic load factor 2. The default % value of critical damping used in Caesar II Are answered on the following WIKI page: Dynamic Analysis in AutoPIPE Item #6: Modeling Support - AutoPIPE 1. Item #8: Modeling Guide Supports 2. Item #11: Define a Displacement at a Support Are answered on the following WIKI page: Modeling Support - AutoPIPE Item #7: Error message: The load case did not converge. Do you wish to continue iterating? Item #8: Graphical Point Editing Caesar users are used to looking at the model, then reading and entering the point name. In AutoPIPE like CAD use point and click, point names are automatically taken care of. Productivity Example - Add a Support AutoPIPE Caesar Click on the Support Point Select Support Type (Friction & Gaps) Look at the Graphic Plot & Read Point Name Go to the data sheet Click on the Restraint Option Enter the Point Name Select Support Type (Friction & Gaps) 2 way gaps permitted all supports Guide - Both Horiz. + Vertical Only 1 gap permitted 2 supports required for Guide + Y Item #9: Pipe Stress Work involves lots of Iterations 99 levels of Undo / Redo are available at all times in AutoPIPE such that different support configurations can be tried and if stresses or equipment loads are worse then can easily revert back to some previous state. But in Caesar undo/redo is always lost when exit the INPUT module. Alphanumeric node numbering by segments – easy to identify which nodes relate to which parts / line numbers of the model Item #10: Defining Wind, Wave, and Earthquake Loads Go to the Load menu to define them Note: Up to 10 (AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.00.xx and lower) or 30 (AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.01.xx and higher) seismic loads are available useful for evaluating +X, -X, +Z, -Z as a minimum for non-linear cases. (Only 3 uniform loads available in Caesar). Similarly up to 10 wind cases available in the one static analysis. Item #11: Define a displacement at a support In AutoPIPE simply assign a displacement at the support for any load case, GR, T1, T2, E1, etc during modelling. Caesar has limitation of defining only 9 displacements which have to be combined in post processing to specific load cases. Insert Xtra data imposed support displacement. These can be applied also to anchors but only act in the direction of the restraint. item #12: Download file: Caesar_autopipe_Translation_5.pdf File contains information on the following topics: AutoPIPE / Caesar Translation Caesar Neutral File Versions Transferring Caesar Model to AutoPIPE Transfer Large Caesar Models AutoPIPE Configurable Mapping Translation Limitations Comparative Results Write AutoPIPE Model to Caesar 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 load case did not converge. Do you wish to continue iterating?

  Limitations Soil

   First review AutoPIPE limitation in the online help: Please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Search Tab enter "Save Defaults" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information. Item #1, Question: What is the maximum pipeline length we can model in AutoPipe? Answer: You can model any length of pipe line as long as the model database does not exceed the 10,000 node point limitation and the coordinate location values. Item #2, Question: Is there a limit on the number of digits for the coordinates in Autopipe?  We  have a project that has the following plant coordinates, 202094'4.875", that we want to use in Autopipe.  Answer:  Yes there is a limit. On the Input grid's, point tab, Global X, Y, & Z values are limited to input 8-9 place values regardless of the value that can actually be entered (max =15 place value). As a general rule of thumb, suggest trying to restrict this field to about 8-9 values (example 1234.6789, or 123456.89). Another option, change the unit of measurement used for coordinate in the respective Unit input file (*.UNT) specified on Tools Model Options General Unit  Input. Instead of using Feet use yards, mile, furlong, etc..   

   Question #1: What is an adequate spacing required for piping points (nodes) and soil points? Answer: There is no one answer to this question. See AutoPIPE's online help for suggested soil spring spacing based on Zone 1, Zone 2, or Zone 3 piping. These are only suggestions may need it increase/decrease soil points as required for convergence issues. Question #2: The more the nodes, some of the load cases (temperature, pressure and user-defined) do not converge Answer: If a model does not converge, please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Search Tab enter "Failure to Converge" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information.  Review the *.LOG file to understand where the failure is occuring and address the location. See omline help for details about the *.LOG file. Question #3: What is the most soil deformation that AutoPIPE can handle? Answer: Soil Deformations This can be a difficult problem, since the settlement is such a large soil deformation of 1600mm All beam theory  piping analysis programs such as Autopipe, Caesar, pipeplus are based on small deformation theory and large displacements can give an ill-conditioned solution and erroneous results. As an example, large deformation across a large span of 200m. The maximum slope of the pipe may be of the order of 0.025 radians and the solution should be ok As a check that Autopipe can handle these large deformations use the following rule of thumb. Check that the maximum slope angle in radians of the deformed pipe = approx. sin (slope angle) then the solution should be ok. One method to simulate subsidence of known amount e.g 25mm see below. Set the yield P1 = 25 as shown below and K1 (initial) value = 0.001 and calculated soil stiffness = K2 (final)                      SOIL PROPERTIES    Soil                     Initial K   yield P       Final K    Yield disp     ID           Dirn       (N/mm/mm )  (N/m    )     (N/mm/mm )   (mm    )   ------      -------      ----------  ---------  ----------  ----------    SOIL1         Horiz.        6.540   699861.00      0.000       07.0118                  Long         17.540    43859.00      0.000        2.5005                 Vert Up       2.790   139303.00      0.000       49.9291                 Vert Dn       0.001       25.00     23.030       24.9999 One method: If the maximum settlement is unknown, then  model the soft waterlogged soil over the known span and known firmer soil at  ends. Apply the over-burden sand weight as UDL load or vertical wind load (to simulate the pressure of the 4m sand) on the pipe and observe the deformation and check the resulting maximum slope. Note: ensure the final soil stiffness values K2 is not = 0 but a finite value e.g  0.001. The vertical down K2 value should be known (ie final soil conditions after settlement) and the P1 (soil yield ) value can be 'tweeked' to  achieve the distance between the soft and final soil condition. Check that the actual pipe movement reaches the final soil condition otherwise the solution may become ill-conditioned.   Maybe the sand has a influence on calculating the upward soil stiffness but this direction should not be important.. Question #4: Is there an error  in the program. Why is the high stiffness  values being used for the low Stiffness calculations and vise-versa Low values being used for the high stiffness calculations:   Answer: This is not an error. The Yield Displacement is calculated via formula YD = P1/K1. However while calculating the K1 & P1 stiffness values we use low yield displacement values for high stiffness value and vice versa. This behavior is also described in the note Note: High yield disp. is used for low stiffness. Just below the Pipe direction selection on the dialog (shown below). For the parameters, the following rule is applied: 1. If the user updates a value in the low column, which is greater than high column value, the low column value is assigned to the high column value. 2. If the user updates a value in the high column, which is lower than the value in low column, there is no update to the low column. This behavior is missing from the online help and will be added in a future version of the program. Question #5: What is the best method to model soil settlement in AutoPIPE when 25.4mm (1 inch) of pipe settlement is required in the model when there is a probability of over -excavation and greater than 25.4mm (1 inch)? a.Impose and upward displacement on the support or b. A downwward displacement ont he soil Do soil springs act in both tension and compression? what is the besst way to model pipe settlement where over-excavation has occurred? Answer: In our opinion, approach (b) is better as the displacement is applied in a more discretized fashion than in (a).  In AutoPIPE, imposed displacements can be applied only at points which are supported or buried.  If the imposed displacements are applied as in (b), there will be compression in the soil springs below the pipe and tension in the soil springs above the pipe. Yes, soil springs act in tension as well as compression as per the assumption of bilinear behavior. Please refer to AutoPIPE help for more information. We think that it is more reasonable to retain the soil springs below and impose displacements on the soil points to model the soil settlement in areas of over-excavation. You may also consider using incline supports with a gap of 1" below the pipe so that the resistance of soil below the pipe is engaged after the pipe displaces 1" to close the gap (similar to scenario #2 in the figure below). However, the yielding of the soil cannot be modeled using this approach of using incline supports to model soil stiffness. Closer to the support, the pipe displacement  is relatively less compared to mid-span. If large imposed displacements are modeled close to the support you might see spurious high stresses. ( WYMIWYG - what you model is what you get.)    Yes, not modeling top soil might be a reasonable approach. As there is lesser restraint after removing these soil springs, the pipe support reactions are likely to be lesser as you have rightly observed. Question #6 What is the correct metric unit for the variable "f" at the bottom of the Edit Soil Properties window near Soil Overburden Loads? I am confused because the displayed imperial unit is psi, whereas the metric unit is N/mm. Answer : Yes, this is an oversight in the program (AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.00.xx and lower). If you convert the PSI value over to metric units the value displayed would have the units of N/mm^2. The development team is aware of this issue and will fix in a future version of the program. Question #7: Open the soil dialog screen and press Edit Soil Parameters button, set Calculation method = AutoPIPE, notice that lthe soil parameter "horizontal stiffness parameter ki" is always has the units of lb/in3 when the input units are set to SI.  The lb/in3 units are the same in the ouput listing.  The numerical value of the ki parameter is the same in the output listing regardless of units selected. is this an error? Answer: No it is not an error. Open the Edit Soil Parameters dialog screen, press the help button, under "AutoPIPE only parameters" select the hyperlink for "Horizontal Stiffness Parameter, ki" and read the online help. The reason for this is that there is no conversion in the unit files for lbs/in^3. We will require adding an additional unit in all our unit files to represent this lb/in3. Otherwise, the same value is used regardless of units selected in the model. Item #8: What type of discretized soil foundation is implemented in AutoPIPE (Example Winkler Soil Model, Filanenko Borodich Model, continuous model etc... Answer: To be added in the future.    Item #9: How does imposing a support displacement effect the soil spring at the imposed support displacement and how does it effect adjacent springs ? Answer: Look at it this way, each support can be considered a spring with a base. The base is attached to the imaginary ground in the program. When you apply "Impose Support Displacement" to a support, the base will physically moved when a specific load case is applied during the analysis. These values are specified when inserting an "Impose Support Displacement". As mentioned in the online help, soil properties are essentially spring supports at intervals with the correct stiffness values.   Therefore, "Impose Support Displacement" can be assigned and will affect Soil point locations. Furthermore, only those soil points that actually have "Imposed Support Displacement" assigned will move when the specified load case is applied during the analysis. This action will affect surrounding piping because the pipe is not made of bubble gum. Example: If a set of soils points between two node points have a 5 inch Impose Support Displacement assigned. When the indicated load case is analyzed, these soil point bases will try to moved the 5 inches, the rest of the adjacent soil springs will resist this movement but ultimately will be displaced by a fraction of that 5 inches until the impose support displacement no longer affects the adjacent soil spring. Typically the pipe will have a bell shape curve to it.   

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Index Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Index Can I add a new code material to my existing ASME B31.1 library so the program will update the hot allowable stresses for different temperatures? How do I interpret the elevation of ground relative to the piping model for wind loading? What does [??%] mean in the code compliance report? What is an appropriate way to model a offshore riser? When do I use the Xtra hydrodynamic data? What is the significance of Cm to buoyancy? How do I model Seabed piping with concrete mattresses? Why is my buried piping system is showing large Displacements in the gravity case? A consistency check shows near-zero elements reported in the model, will this affect my model? A consistency check finds many all of the following warning messages: * * * W A R N I N G - MODEL * * * W726-7: Pipe diameter change without a reducer at point B02. Why? My piping model with gaps and friction does not converge after five iterations, can I continue? When will the thermal expansion rates be updated for my code materials defined in the piping model? When are my material code allowable stresses updated? My ANSI flange check shows several flanges have increased from class 600 to 900, what does this mean? How do I model code compliance cases in accordance with the DNV code? Some of my segments have been deleted from the model and using RE-NUMBER/ALL in AutoPIPE 6.0 some of the the point names do not match the segment names e.g. a AB01, AB02 may be on segment V, how can I correct this? Why is my non-linear analysis giving unexpected results i.e large movements in the pressure case across my bellows when my tielink should restrain the pressure movement? Why is displacement showing 10mm in the E1 case when my guide gaps are 5mm? When I perform a static analysis it stops giving the error message "E801-1 Fatal error unstable system" also if I perform a modal analysis "E801-16 Fatal error zero energy modes". What is the warning message W90-24 "current model does not match the analysis"? What are modeling techniques for special valves and loads like ice/snow loading? When I see the Lift-off warning message after the static analysis how can I find out where the lift-off is occurring? For the pipe with the lowest point is at elevation -2 000 mm in the vertical coordinate but actually it is located 10 000 mm above ground, is it correct to specify the "Ground Elevation for Wind" at -12 000 mm? In the wind profile, if I specify "Global X" , does it mean +X or -X or the highest value of the two cases? How I can determine if a flange in the piping system is under tension or compression with AutoPipe? How do I model socket weld fittings? Are there any changes I need to make after I rotate my model about the vertical axis? Do I need to change the weld factors defined in the pipe properties screen? How do I model the offshore code compliance to B31.4, B31.8, BS8010 or CSAZ662 section 11? Why are spring or rigid hangers on vertical legs showing large reaction loads in the Hydrotest (Hy) case compared to the Gravity (Gr) case? I am performing a steam hammer analysis but when should I use ZPA correction method under Time History analysis? How I can be sure I have correctly modeled my fluid transient? Is marine growth thickness included for buoyancy loads? It is optional to include corroded wall thickness, axial force and torsion in the DNV stress calculations, what should I use? Can Autopipe open an Caesar input file? How do I calculate the DNV 2000 tension terms? How do I capture marine growth weight? I am carrying out a modal analysis on my offshore riser and what value of Cm should I use on the buoyancy screen? How do I model a rigid anchor in the local pipe direction? How do I model a large sweep bend with radius = 50ft? Do I need to run a static analysis after my hanger selection? What are the +/- points displayed in code compliance and forces/moments reports? Does Autopipe include axial stress for ASME B31.1 and B31.3? Can I apply local displacements to my guides? Which side of the pipe at a run point are the forces and moments are reported? How does Autopipe calculate the Pressure Extension & Pressure Thrust forces? How can I simulate soil settlement on part of my piping system? Can I model a Sway Brace? Can I model my pipe shoe supported on a spring can with friction? Why are all my dynamic results positive? Can I create a isometric model to use in AutoCAD or Autoplant? Why does the legend for the interactive code scan show a maximum value = 1.0 for stresses? My B31.3 code stress is showing an overstress in the hoop stress (Max P) case? I open my archived model and it appears blank. Why? Sometimes my Autoplant valves imported from the PXF neutral file have zero weight. Why? How can I change my Y-vertical axis model to Z-vertical? Why does my bend look disconnected from the pipe on the screen? How can I define a branch SIF using B31.1 Fig D-1 sketch d)? Does my expansion joint include contents weight? Why do I I keep getting a warning message "W831-1, Combinations include cases not analyzed"? How do I make a mirror copy of a section of piping? How do I define the coefficient of lift for wave loading? Can you provide any references for buried pipe design? How do I model the discharge piping accurately relative to my suction Piping? How do I model different parts of the piping system inside and outside a building for wind loads? What does LOC mean in the General Stress Report? How can I determine axial (tension or compression) and bending stress in the pipe? How do I model a ball joint with high inertial moment stiffness? Please confirm the recommended value of the added mass coefficient, Cm for a circular cylinder according to DNV Rules for Submarine Pipeline Systems - 1981 - Fig. A.7. How do I define one constant Hydrotest pressure over the whole model? What are the Participation Factors and the Captured Modal Mass in the frequency report? When should I perform a pressure analysis? The Autopipe help states " When the rise time several times larger than the 2L/a time, the calculated pressure rise in AutoPIPE might be conservative. For this special case, the use of a fluid simulation software is recommended if P2 case is critical ." What does this mean? My seabed piping shows a large unexpected displacement. Can you please explain? How do I enter cold spring into my main steam model? Given that point A11 is the TIP of a long-radius bend, how are the near and far points related to A11 N-, A11 N+, A11 F-, and A11 F+? When I insert a midpoint there is a big difference in the natural frequencies, can you please explain? When performing seismic analysis, can AutoPIPE do multi support excitation? How can I print an echo of the input response spectra (load)? Where do I input stress range reduction factor? How can I look up the units for a flexible anchor for translational and rotational stiffness? I have been working with AutoPIPE 8.05.01.11. How do you print in version 6.3 when there are no grids? Can AutoPIPE run a flange check and if so, how? I am looking at a tutorial for water hammer called apham1. I have noticed that between A06 and C00 there is, essentially, a split between the supply and discharge lines of the imaginary pump (each is anchored and flanged). I didn't know this could be done. Could you help me to get this same type of arrangement set up for a similar project I am working on? When coding a tie/link for an expansion joint what is considered gap forward and what is considered gap backward? How do you close a loop? I am working on a system which a two phase liquid. For the stress analysis, which specific gravity should I use? Should I consider the true representative by getting the average or just use the higher specific gravity? Does AutoPIPE assume the contents of the pipes are full of water? If so, is there a setting available to modify the specific gravity (or other item) to model a different fluid? Is there a way to easily modify the allowable stress for the custom piping I have put into the model? I am using Code B-7159. Please explain the $T1 and $T2 load case data? Seismic load needs to be run with friction. How do I turn it on? How do I change a temperature over a range? In the Hanger Selection Analysis dialog, it is displaying V-Stop as supports whereas the user has spring hangers. What criteria does it use to determine the supports? If the modal displacements are a unitless number, what is their value based on? How do I hide node numbers? How do I print to AutoCAD DXF? How to increment point numbers by 5 instead of the default increment of 1? I am looking for a quick way of changing the piping orientation and I do not want to start to input the model again. I would like to change the orientation of the horizontal leg to start from the X and Z plane at 45 degrees. What is the method for stress analysis of pipe settlement when loading traffic? Is there an easy way to change temperatures over a range using the input grids? I am running 12 thermal loadcases (Code B31.1). I noticed in the code combinations that the range from ambient to T1....T12 are considered, however, the total range for all twelve cases are not shown. For example only "T1 to T2"; "T1 to T3" and "T2 to T3" are shown. Where can I find a sample for a pressure balanced expansion joint? How does AutoPIPE decide the allowable stresses on pipes? How do you know if the axial forces on a flange are in compression, simply by looking at the forces and moments report? For Hanger Selection what is considered for spring sizing, cold setting or hot setting? What is Weightless or As-built when considering gapped supports? In the output report why does the Results Summary reflect two different Occasional Cases? Why does the code compliance report show an SIF = 1 for the Sustained Case and 1.3 for all other cases? If a user hasn't saved his model in a while (old bak file) and lost his model by accident, can he use his U0x file and change it to a dat? Does AutoPIPE display "Von Mises" as well as "Tresca" stresses on the output report? How do you set up WinNOZL to work with AutoPIPE? On the support output report, the GR's load is not equal to the spring Preload. Why? How do you model Cryogenic piping? My AutoPIPE application runs slowly on my computer, what can I do? Question 1: Can I add a new code material to my existing ASME B31.1 library so the program will update the hot allowable stresses for different temperatures? Answer : Yes, a document has been prepared to describe this process. Download it now by clicking HERE . Question 2: How do I interpret the elevation of ground relative to the piping model for wind loading? Answer : For pre Autopipe 6.2X , both wind design codes ASCE-7 and UBC ground is always taken as the global vertical axis coordinate = 0. For the ASCE-7 wind code, when elevations in the piping model are 15 feet, the program defaults to an elevation = 15 feet to determine the automatic code factors. For the UBC wind code, if elevations in the piping model are negative, the automatic code factors may become very small resulting in a small calculated wind Pressure. In this case, the piping system should be moved vertically to correctly position the ground elevations relative to the global vertical axis coordinate = 0. Use Modify/coordinate and enter the appropriate vertical movement. Note: For UBC code elevations 400ft are considered with no wind. User wind profile: The first height field entered references the ground level of the piping/framing system, located at the point in the model with the lowest global vertical axis coordinate value. Specific height values are the global vertical axis coordinates of points in the model, which means that negative heights (or 0) are possible. Highest = point in the model with the highest global vertical axis coordinate value. In Autopipe 6.20 or later the ground elevation field should be used to define the location (positive or negative value) where ground is located relative to the global vertical origin e.g Y = 0 if vertical axis is Y. Note: UBC:1997 and ASCE-7:1998 codes were updated in V6.2 and now UBC Table 16-G is interpolated for intermediate values and uses values at 400 ft for higher elevations. Back to Index Question 3: What does [??%] mean in the code compliance report? Answer : Intermediate stress points. A [%??}in code compliance report refers to % location of a point of the higher stress found than the adjacent run points e.g. AutoPIPE 5.03 default = 19, i.e. 19 intermediate stress points evaluated between any 2 adjacent run points or around a bend from the near to the far points. Note: In AutoPIPE 6.0 the default for Intermediate stress points = 0 i.e. turned off. Intermediate stress points can be important to capture points of highest stress e.g. a simply-supported Pipe with defined supports at either end has a maximum moment/stress at the mid-span but typically only the support points are defined in the pipe stress model and hence only the stresses at these points are calculated and reported. Question 4: What is an appropriate way to model a offshore riser? Answer : It is important to add many points along the riser section of pipe e.g. at approximately every 8 to 10 feet to provide adequate mass discretization so the program can capture the distributed wave loading accurately across the riser pipe. Riser pipes are typically sloped at 10 to 15 deg and guide supports on the riser will be normal to the pipe axis and the reaction loads normal to the pipe can be seen in the a support forces report which shows Local and global displacement's and reactions. Note: Platform wave displacements should be applied at the platform anchor and riser guides. Back to Index Question 5: When do I use the Xtra hydrodynamic data? Answer : When the pipeline does not experience the wave or current effects then under xtra/hydro data set Cm=0, Cd =0 and CL = 0 across the range of pipe selected e.g the pipe is in a J-tube, seabed pipe is buried or when concrete mattresses are applied to the seabed piping. These Hydrodynamic coefficients will over-ride the ones defined under Load/Wave. Question 6: What is the significance of Cm to buoyancy? Answer : Cm under buoyancy is only used to compute added mass effects during a modal analysis. Back to Index Question 7: How do I model Seabed piping with concrete mattresses? Answer : Either i) calculate "equivalent" soil properties for the concrete mattresses then insert these soil properties over this range ii) Model vstops over this section of seabed piping and use high value of friction e.g 1.5 to 2.0 plus additional distributed weight loading from the concrete mass. Question 8: Why is my buried piping system is showing large Displacements in the gravity case? Answer : Soil supports are specified for most models with a final stiffness K2 = 0, although AutoPIPE can still solve this problem the results may be invalid if the nonlinear system goes a large deformation. The soil should still have some stiffness after yield to restrain the pipe, this is accomplished by specifying a nonzero K2 value (e.g. K2= 0.01) or to include more restraints in the system or reduce the soil span in the soil identifier. Note that may also be possible that the K1 values for the soil are not providing enough stiffness to the system. Back to Index Question 9: A consistency check shows near-zero elements reported in the model, will this affect my model? Answer : Try to avoid near-zero elements in a model, particularly with defined soil properties. Generally near-zero elements can be deleted without affecting the model for example if a run point is defined at the same coordinates as the near or far point of a bend then delete the run point. Question 10: A consistency check finds many all of the following warning messages: * * * W A R N I N G - MODEL * * * W726-7: Pipe diameter change without a reducer at point B02. Why? Answer : These warning messages can generally be ignored and will be displayed also where two pipe identifiers are connected with the same pipe nominal diameter but with different wall thicknesses. Back to Index Question 11: My piping model with gaps and friction does not converge after five iterations, 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. Generally if the model doesn't converge after 50 iterations, a solution cannot be found and reviewing the Model.log file will show bearing force and Displacement convergence errors at a particular support which may be the reason for the non-convergence. Note: Default number of nonlinear iterations has been increased to 30 in version 6.10 Question 12: When will the thermal expansion rates be updated for my code materials defined in the piping model? Answer : Thermal expansion rates will be updated under the following operations: Export to a batch file (*.NTL) then importing the same batch file. Modifying the ambient temperature in the Tools/Model Options/General Modifying the Pressure temperature across the range or complete model. Change the number of temperature Pressure cases under edit/system (5.03) or tools/model options/General Back to Index Question 13: When are my material code allowable stresses updated? Answer : Material code allowable stresses (temperature dependent) are updated under the following operations: Changing the code material under a pipe identifier. Modifying the Pressure and temperature across a range. Question 14: My ANSI flange check shows several flanges have increased from class 600 to 900, what does this mean? Answer : The ANSI flange check calculations are recommending increasing the Pressure rating from class 600 to 900 based on the combination of the design Pressure, axial force and bending moment across the flange, these calculations are shown in appendix O as based on ASME B31.7 nuclear piping code Para 1 704.5 (a). These flange checks are known to be conservative, and using the calculated effective Pressure in ASME VIII Div I appendix 2 for flange design, a more accurate design check can be completed. Back to Index Question 15: How do I model code compliance cases in accordance with the DNV code? Answer : The only relevant code compliance categories in the DNV code are functional and environmental as defined in Autopipe 6.0 as follows: Max Equiv Represents "load case a - Functional loads". (Von-Mises code category) Equiv.+U1 Represents "load case b - Design environmental loads and simultaneously acting functional loads". (combined code category) Hoop Represents hoop pressure stress only (hoop code category) Notice the default code combinations under sustained, occasional and expansion have brackets around these cases such that they are not required by the DNV code and have been de-selected to not print out by default in Autopipe 6.0. Also refer to code compliance calculations in the Autopipe Reference Information for DNV'81 code calculations. RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CODE COMPLIANCE CASES FOR DNV CODE Step1 Start with the default DNV code compliance cases. Tools/code combinations/reset all Step 2 If you wish to create user code combinations a) Functional user code case e.g. Gr + T1+P1 See image below b) Functional + environmental code case. e.g. Gr + T1+U1+E1 Note: the forces and moments for all load cases are combined at the moment level then an effective stress calculated and the allowable stress includes a factor =1.33. Question 16: Some of my segments have been deleted from the model and using RE-NUMBER/ALL in AutoPIPE 6.0 some of the the point names do not match the segment names e.g. a AB01, AB02 may be on segment V, how can I correct this? Answer : Currently in Autopipe 6.0 or 5.0x , the only workaround is or perform an Edit/Cut then Edit/Paste operation. Select the complete model using Ctrl A or Select/All points such that all points are highlighted red, then select edit/Cut (ctrl X), clicked on or type the name of a base point for typically the first anchor in the system e.g. A00 then click OK. Click yes to delete all points and the model will disappear from the screen. Select Edit/Paste (ctrl V) from menu, uncheck the box "connect two selected points", then click OK. The complete model will reappear on the screen. Back to Index Question 17: Why is my non-linear analysis giving unexpected results i.e large movements in the pressure case across my bellows when my tielink should restrain the pressure movement? Answer : The tie-link has a large forward gap which under the default load sequence i.e default is "Use default sequence" is checked . Or to change the intial states i.e different load sequence then uncheck this option. The following Initial states dialog shows the default load sequence. i.e GR then thermal then Pressure case. Since P1 follows the thermal case T1, the bellows moves across the gap under T1 providing "lift-off" or the gap is open then the pressure load causes the bellows to expand and moves back to take up the tie-link gap. Further discussion on load sequencing is found in 5.0 appendices pg 190 or autopipe 6.0 Autopipe reference information under analysis considerations\static analysis\non-linear analysis\solution sequence Note: The liftoff can be verified by checking the restraint loads for the tielink reveals Gr= -64500 and T1= 64500 confirming after the T1 case (gr+t1) no reaction occurs on the tielink hence tielink gap is open.s A more expected result i.e pressure occuring before the thermal expansion thus the load sequence of Pressure after gravity as follows: Giving very small movements in the vertical direction = 0.002mm across the tielink (i.e A02-A01) is probably due to any rigid anchor or support does have a very large finite stiffness in the finite element analysis within autopipe. Question 18: Why is displacement showing 10mm in the E1 case when my guide gaps are 5mm? Answer : Your model is run as a non-linear analysis with the default load sequence ie. Gr then T1 then P1 as seen below in the initial states dialog. Under a non-linear analysis the loads reported in the support and restraint reports are incremental not absolute total loads. To observe the resultant loads on supports it is important to create load combinations. Note: There is a new option under tools/model options/result "Add Def non-code comb" when checked will automatically create many non-code combinations eg Gr+T1+P1. eg at C23 Gr FY = -436 T1 FY= 210 i.e pipe is tending to lift off under the thermal case. but Gr+t1= -226 which means after T1 the pipe is still sitting on the support and hence 0 upward movement. If Gr Fy equal and opposite of T1(FY) then the total vertical reaction is 0 and expect to see +ve DY movement in the T1 case. Extracts from online help autopipe 6.0 Total vs. Incremental Loading A load case (e.g. gravity, thermal, wind, etc.) represents an increment of load, not a total load (except for gravity). Hence, pipe forces, displacements, support forces, etc. calculated for a load case represent the increments produced by that case regardless of the type of static analysis performed (linear, or nonlinear). In particular, the results for a thermal case define the changes in the forces and displacements due to thermal expansion, not the total effects due to combined gravity and thermal. In order to obtain total load effects, combinations must be defined which include the load cases that have been used to hold the specific loads of interest. "Superposition" of load cases is a commonly accepted principle for a static linear analysis. However, it is not so straight forward for a nonlinear analysis. Nonlinear Solution Load Case Sequence For a linear analysis, the results for each load case are obtained all at once. However, for a nonlinear analysis the results are obtained sequentially. There are two reasons for this. First, the analysis of a nonlinear system requires iteration (successive trials), and different load cases will usually require different numbers of iterations. Second, (and more important) the result for any AutoPIPE load case will generally depend on the initial state for that case. For example, the result for a thermal expansion load will generally depend on the state of the system after gravity load is applied (e.g. which gaps are open and which are closed). The solution for the gravity case must thus be obtained first, and used as the initial state for the thermal expansion case. For a nonlinear analysis, the user has the option of selecting a default load sequence or of specifying a user defined sequence. It is important to note that in an AutoPIPE analysis, each load case is an increment of load, not a total load. To illustrate the difference, consider two alternative procedures for obtaining thermal expansion effects. If analyses are performed for total loads, the steps are: Preferred load sequence for correct loads on restraints You may wish to run a load sequence as follows which considers the earthquake cases after the operating i.e case of GR+P1+T1 and set T1 as the initial state of the E1 case. This equally applies to wind cases also. If more than one thermal case exists then the user may wish to set T1 as being the initial state for E2, E3 instead of T2 which may not be a operating case. Regarding your Dx= 10mm in the E1 case since E1 follows Gr case in the load sequence and Dx = -5mm in Gr case the resultant position Gr+E1 is Dx= +5mm i.e hitting the gap hence the reaction in E1 case Fx = 179. Back to Index Question 19: When I perform a static analysis it stops giving the error message "E801-1 Fatal error unstable system" also if I perform a modal analysis "E801-16 Fatal error zero energy modes". Answer : Possible Solutions are: A segment is not connected to the rest of the model (Check the consistency check warning messages) Tee is not connected correctly e.g Notice the point names are overlapped (point name is not clearly seen on the screen) at 2 points A and B. and/or the tee arrowhead is floating in space. Place cursor on point A and select modify/point , change point name A to B and click ok Modify convert point to run, then Modify convert point to tee, view/redraw. A beam is not connected to the rest of the piping model with no anchor. A beam is too 'soft' e.g shear area is too small Flexible joint has some stiffness values = 0 Nozzle element has very low stiffness. No anchors (rigid or flexible) in the piping system. If frames are only used to model dummy leg supports. Then one useful tip in the future to find disconnected frame points is to batch the model i.e. file save as /NTL (batch) and scroll to the bottom of the NTL file. There is a section called BEAM NODES as seen below. This section should be empty if dummy legs are modeled correctly i.e beam from bend midpoint to dummy pipe segment. A model has to be statically determinate which means an anchor can be traced back on every segment of pipe. In some cases the anchor does not have to be rigid but can only have 3 non-zero translational stiffnesses to prevent the pipe "floating off into space". You can also use rigid beam elements to connect pipes together which will also maintain a stable piping system. Question 20: What is the warning message W90-24 "current model does not match the analysis"? Answer : This message is displayed when the model has been changed but either one or both of the static and dynamic analysis has not been re-run. If not wishing to re-run the dynamic analysis then suggest you delete the LIN & EIG files and re-run the static analysis only. This message does not affect the results. Note that AutoPIPE 6.2 and later will prompt you for deleting these files. Back to Index Question 21: What are modeling techniques for special valves and loads like ice/snow loading? Answer : Angle Valve Refer to online Help topic /Autopipe Workbook/AutoPIPE Modeling Approaches/Valves/Relief and Angle Valves 3 way Valve Insert a tee (set tee component = tee, tee type = Other and SIF =1.0), insert very small run pipe then a valve from the each leg of the tee. Select the tee and run points up to each valve but not including the valve (highlighed red) and Insert/Rigid options over range (include weight = OFF, include thermal expansion = ON) 4 way Valve Insert a tee (set tee component = cross, tee type = Other and SIF =1.0), insert very small run pipe the a valve from the each of 4 legs of the cross. Select the tee and run points up to each valve but not including the valve (highlighed red) and Insert/Rigid options over range (include weight = OFF, include thermal expansion = ON) Prestressed springs Define the cold preload and spring rate for the spring hanger when Insert /support/spring instead of "Undesigned". Snow and/or ice loading Apply either : Select the range of pipe and apply distributed load (Insert/Distributed load) in the vertical down direction equivalent to snow or ice loading in the U1 case This is a uniform distributed load therefore enter as below: If all the model experiences the snow loading and same pipe size then can use a user-profile wind case in the -vertical direction if calculate the equivalent snow pressure to be applied i.e snow loading in lb/in divided by the projected pipe diameter (including insulation). Note: Wind pressure default units = lb/sq.ft. Question 22: When I see the Lift-off warning message after the static analysis how can I find out where the lift-off is occurring? Answer : To verify lift-off has occurred first examine the Restraint report as below: Where the thermal or occasional (e.g. wind, seismic or user) vertical load is equal and opposite to the Gravity (GR) load (-ve vertical load) then lift-off has occurred i.e. GR+T1 vertical load = 0. This can ALSO be confirmed in the displacement or support forces report by a +ve vertical displacement in the thermal or occasional (e.g wind, seismic or user) load case as seen below : LIFT -OFF procedure to find all the supports which are lifting off. Run non-linear analysis and lift-off warning msg is displayed. Clear the selection set i.e Ctrl Q or Select/clear. Select Result/filter criteria /support. Select the logical method = "OR" Check the supports which could be lifting off i.e v-stops and guides. Note: springs can always move up or down. Check Dy = on , abs = off, and "greater than" , "0.001" Note: no quotes on the values entered. Note: This assumes Y = vertical axis change to Dz if Z= vertical axis All the support points that match this criteria will be highlighted red on the screen or can be printed in a support forces report provided the batch report option "apply filter criteria" = yes Note: This procedure also highlights guides on vertical lines which can be ignored Also supports with gaps in the downward direction. Modeling Options if Lift-off occurs Remove the support and re-run the analysis Use "gap above pipe" and accept pipe will lift off in hot condition Restrain the pipe from moving up e.g 0 gap above the pipe. Replace the support with a spring. Move the support to prevent lift-off. Re-arrange the pipe route to prevent lift-off. Back to Index Question 23: For the pipe with the lowest point is at elevation -2 000 mm in the vertical coordinate but actually it is located 10 000 mm above ground, is it correct to specify the "Ground Elevation for Wind" at -12 000 mm? Answer : Yes. Question 24: In the wind profile, if I specify "Global X" , does it mean +X or -X or the highest value of the two cases? Answer : Global X = +X only. Back to Index Question 25: How I can determine if a flange in the piping system is under tension or compression with AutoPipe? Answer : If you check the box for ANSI flange check then print the Flanges report it will only show tensile axial load. If the ANSI flange report shows axial load = 0 then flange under compression. Question 26: How do I model socket weld fittings? Answer : It is recommended based on the intent on many ASME codes to use conservatively an SIF value = 2.1. ASME Codes state the following regarding socket welds: B31.1 use 1.3 for socket welds with no undercut, and 2.1 for all others. B31.3 states "2.1 Max or 2.1 T/Cx but not less than 1.3. Cx is the fillet weld leg length". B31.8 states "2.1 Max or 2.1 T/Cx but not less than 1.3." To apply this SIF to all bends and Tees perform the following: Select/Bends to highlight all bends in the model, then Select/Tees to highlight all bends in the model, then Insert/xtra data/User SIF, Inplane SIF =2.1, Outplane SIF =2.1, Override all other SIFs at this point = unchecked (i.e maximum SIF used if automatic SIF 2.1), Flexibility Factor = 1.0 (no flexibility). Back to Index Question 27: Are there any changes I need to make after I rotate my model about the vertical axis? Answer : Yes update the following to reflect the new model orientation. All imposed support and anchor displacements. Forces and moments are applied in a global direction and may also need updating. Supports other than springs, constants, guides and v-stops e.g inclined may need to be modified so the restraint direction relative to the pipe is maintained. Question 28: Do I need to change the weld factors defined in the pipe properties screen? Answer : These are only used for the TDK and SPC piping codes and should be left as the default value = 1.0 for all other codes. Refer to the Autopipe help "Weld Factors" for more in-depth discussion. Back to Index Question 29: How do I model the offshore code compliance to B31.4, B31.8, BS8010 or CSAZ662 section 11? Answer : A document has been prepared to describe this process. Download it now by clicking HERE . Note : In AutoPIPE 2004 edition (v8.50) offhsore codes B31.4 chapter IX, B31.8 Chapter VIII and CSA Z662 section 11 codes were added. Answer : The vertical leg in the piping effectively becomes a restrained piping system between the hanger and an anchor or another vertical support above or below the current hanger support. Therefore the large reaction on the vertical leg support in the Hy case is due to the combined effects of pressure extension, any hydrotest thermal effects(usually taken at ambient) and deadweight under hydrotest case and fluid+pipe weight loads under the GR case. The pipe wants to expand due to pressure but is restrained by the locked spring hanger therefore generating a large pressure reaction. Currently, the hydrotest load case in AutoPIPE is only a static linear solution. In other words, support gaps are considered closed and support friction is ignored. In the hydrotest load case, AutoPIPE automatically converts all designed and undesigned spring and constant hangers to a rigid hanger (V-stop) to simulate locked hangers. Gravity, pressure, and thermal loads (if any) are combined to simulate hydrotest loads. As mentioned the Hydrotest includes rigorous pressure analysis which for high pressure systems causes significant pressure extension in the pipe e.g if remove the v-stop at A03N and run the hydrotest shows upward displacement of 0.005". i.e with the system pumped up with 4950 psi pressure. With the v-stop at A03N it is assumed locked and generates this upward load = 27482lb trying to resist the pressure extension. Note: If it is considered that the hanger rod assembly is not rigid in compression (i.e. some slack which is not unreasonable) then it would better to use a separate model with GR, P1 (Pressure Analysis = Checked) and T1 as hydrotest loads, and enter upward gaps for the v-stops then run the analysis as non-linear. This will allow the pipe to move up and not be restrained. Note: To include the axial stress due to the pressure analysis cases (P1 - P3) in the calculation of longitudinal pressure stress (may be significant for high pressure systems), under tools/code combinations/longitudinal pressure, option "Include rigorous pressure stress" = checked. By default this option is OFF. Back to Index Question 30: Why are spring or rigid hangers on vertical legs showing large reaction loads in the Hydrotest (Hy) case compared to the Gravity (Gr) case? analyze for gravity; analyze for gravity plus thermal; then subtract Step 1 from Step 2 to get thermal. If analyses are performed for load increments, the steps are: analyze for gravity; then analyze for thermal, specifying gravity as the initial state. AutoPIPE uses the second of these procedures. Thus, to obtain the results for gravity plus thermal, a load combination must be defined in using the commands in the Result menu. Question 31: I am performing a steam hammer analysis but when should I use ZPA correction method under Time History analysis? Answer : We recommend to perform two analyses, one with ZPA and one without. For flexible legs (legs with flexible or no axial supports) use no ZPA correction. If the system has pipe legs with rigid axial supports, use ZPA correction to determine realistic loads on these axial supports. Note: ZPA can be very conservative for flexible legs. Question 32: How I can be sure I have correctly modeled my fluid transient? Answer : Some key points to check modeling a fluid transient : Define the flow rate with correct sign. Flow rate is positive for negative pressure rise. Note: When a pump is shutdown, there are two shock waves generated. A positive pressure wave on the suction end and a negative pressure wave on the discharge end are generated. The maximum possible negative pressure wave is equal in magnitude to the pump discharge pressure(Ps) less the liquid vapor pressure (Pv). The pressure wave amplitude is calculated in AutoPIPE using the Joukowski formula. DP = Fluid density*Fluid velocity*speed_of_sound This pressure wave = dP should be less than Ps-Pv to avoid cavitation. This condition should be avoided since the Autopipe results will be invalid. Similarly the pressure rise will be positive upstream of a closed valve and negative downstream of an open valve. Typically use default SINE rise function Define time history duration as 1st period (1/first modal frequency, hz) + transient duration (as shown in the THL file). When click ok to the fluid transient check the red highlighted sections of piping are correct. Run the modal analysis with cut-off frequency at least 100 to 150hz. Recommended to perform modal followed by time history analysis at both cut-off frequencies to confirm the solution has converge i.e. time history results are similar. Run time history with and without ZPA correction. See Q31. Note: Recommend to set under tools/model options/Edit "Mass points per span" = A to allow the program to automatically perform mass discretization on your model for improved accuracy for the dynamic analysis. Support solution Flexible is better. The restraint should only be stiff enough to sufficiently attenuate the low frequency gross deformation. Back to Index Question 33: Is marine growth thickness included for buoyancy loads? Answer : No Autopipe does not consider marine growth thickness (under load/wave) in the calculation of buoyancy loads but it does consider insulation around the pipe in the buoyancy load which can be used to simulate marine growth over a section of pipe and also capture additional weight of the marine growth. Question 34: It is optional to include corroded wall thickness, axial force and torsion in the DNV stress calculations, what should I use? Answer : Yes for the DNV code, the program defaults to Use nominal thickness = checked, since this code explicitly uses nominal thickness for stress calculations. However other codes default to use corroded thickness for stress calculations which is more conservative. i.e for longitudinal pressure stress and corroded section modulus used in bending stress calculations. Refer to the following help topic for code calculations. Autopipe 6.X "Online help topic Autopipe Reference information / Code Compliance Calculations/ DNV" By default axial force and torsion effects are NOT included for DNV but it is recommended to include them for offshore risers especially when the line pressure is high e.g 500psi. To include axial force and torsion check the following options. Pressure Analysis = checked (under static/analyze) nclude rigorous pressure stress =checked (under Tools/code combinations /longitudinal pressure) to include axial pressure stress in the longitudinal pressure stress Under Tools/model options/results: Include axial force = checked Include Torsion = checked Back to Index Question 35: Can Autopipe open an Caesar input file? Answer : Autopipe can only open a Caesar neutral file (*.cii), In Caesar convert the caesar model file to a neutral file from the main menu , Tools/external interfaces/Caesar II neutral file. Question 36: How do I calculate the DNV 2000 tension terms? Answer : In accordance with DNV 2000, AutoPIPE currently can output the following Local Forces and Moments results: Note: Local forces convention -ve = tension +ve = compression With buoyancy defined under Load/buoyancy the hydrostatic forces are calculated and automatically included in the GR case. GR = N + PeAe P1 = internal pressure forces in pipe wall not including PiAi (capped pressure term). GR + P1- PiAi = S = N + PeAe - PiAi Since the sign conventions for S (Effective axial force) , N (True axial force in the pipe wall) , PeAe is consistent with respect to tension or compression i.e signs are automatically calculated by the program and included in the GR and P1 load cases. Back to Index Question 37: How do I capture marine growth weight? Answer : Marine growth thickness usually varies with depth therefore it is recommended to add a distributed load down the riser which can be triangular profile to simulate the varying thickness vs depth. Note: There is no marine growth above mean water level, i.e., marine growth is assumed zero above water level for drag and inertia wave calculations. Question 38: I am carrying out a modal analysis on my offshore riser and what value of Cm should I use on the buoyancy screen? Answer : Referring to the On-line Help a "value of Cm (coefficient of inertia) for cylindrical bodies in a incompressible, frictionless fluid is 2.0". Also refer to DNV 1981 A.3.2 and fig A.7 which shows added mass coefficient as a function of M/D where M is distance from a fixed boundary. If no influence from a fixed boundary then use Cm = 1.0 otherwise Cm = 2.29 to 1.0. Most of offshore users use default value = 2.0. Back to Index Question 39: How do I model a rigid anchor in the local pipe direction? Answer : Enter 3 translational and 3 rotational stiffnesses in local direction for a horizontal pipe, add 1 rotational support about global Y direction (i.e local Y = Global Y), 2 inclined rotational supports (calculate the cosine restraint direction with respect to the pipe direction), linestop (forward and backward gaps = 0) and guide (left, right, up and down gaps = 0). Question 40: How do I model a large sweep bend with radius = 50ft? Answer : Assuming the bend has supports along it then model the bend as series of straight pipe run sections with offsets calculated as a segmented miter bend. Alternatively enter the bend with radius = 50x12 = 600 inches (for ENGLISH units, by overriding the word Long or Short in the radius field. Radius units is displayed in the lower right of the main AutoPIPE window) and insert soil over the large bend with large value of downward soil stiffness, vertical up and lateral stiffness = 0, longitudinal stiffness = 0 (or some nominal value to include some frictional resistance). Back to Index Question 41: Do I need to run a static analysis after my hanger selection? Answer : Yes since the hanger selection only does a free thermal loading whereas the static analysis considers the spring hanger preload and stiffness. Question 42: What are the +/- points displayed in code compliance and forces/moments reports? Answer : +/- points are displayed in the code compliance report: pressure or temperature change Pipe identifier change +/- points displayed in forces and moments report: Flange points, supports, additional weight, concentrated force, tee point and uniform distributed load. Back to Index Question 43: Does Autopipe include axial stress for ASME B31.1 and B31.3? Answer : Both ASME B31.1 and B31.3 codes do not give explicit stress calculations for axial stress but for some cases e.g buried pipe, low modulus systems like FRP and high pressure systems it is recommended to consider axial stress. To include axial stress for all loadcases except pressure then use the option Tools model options /Results "include axial force" = checked. The sign is ignored when adding axial stress to the code stress calculation since this stress calculation is a gross longitudinal stress in the pipe. This is consistent with other pipe stress programs. Note: To include the axial stress due to the pressure analysis cases (P1 - P3) in the calculation of longitudinal pressure stress (may be significant for high pressure systems), under tools/code combinations/longitudinal pressure, option "Include rigorous pressure stress" = checked. By default this option is OFF. Question 44: Can I apply local displacements to my guides? Answer : Only the component of the global displacements in the local restraint direction i.e normal to the pipe for a guide is applied to the restraint. Hence for a skewed pipe, a local displacement can be resolved into global components and applied to the guide. Back to Index Question 45: Which side of the pipe at a run point are the forces and moments are reported? Answer : Global Forces and moments convention. Refer to online help topic Figure H-3 on Autopipe 6.0 reference information/ results interpretation/ Pipe Forces and Moments: Global Option Check the forward direction of the pipe and imagine all the pipe upstream of the reported run point is removed then local or global forces and moments reported (-ve point) will be those acting on the downstream pipe to keep it in equilibrium. For bend and tees and support points and - and + points are reported by the program i.e Loads before /after the point For example: To resolve the actual forces and moments at a tee defined with 3 segments. The branch segment direction is into the Tee and both the header segments are created away from the Tee. Then the global forces and moments at the tee can be read directly for the branch point but the sign must be reversed for the global forces and moments reported on the two header tee points. Note: For skewed piping connecting equipment, you will generally consider the local forces and moments acting on the run point if the run direction is not aligned to the global axes. Enter option Tools model options /Results "Force (Global/Local)" = L for local forces and moments. Question 46: How does Autopipe calculate the Pressure Extension & Pressure Thrust forces? Answer : Autopipe calculates the pressure thrust based on cap pressure force - poissons effect i.e using inside diameter for the poissons term. This term is at the analysis level acting on the inside diameter and not a code compliance hoop stress term which uses outside diameter. Pressure thrust reaction at anchor. Rpressure = p.Ai - v.p.Di/2t x As where Ai is the internal pipe area and As is the X-area of the pipe, t is the wall thickness. Pressure extension Ext = (p.Ai/As/Elong - v.p.Ri/t/Ehoop)*tangent length Note: Autopipe does not report the cap internal pressure load at an anchor unless it is unbalance thrust across a flexible joint with the pressure analysis option checked when performing a static analysis. Note: The program calculates displacements then back-calculates forces and moments from the stiffness matrix equations which many times can be difficult to manually re-produce. Back to Index Question 47: How can I simulate soil settlement on part of my piping system? Answer : If the piping system is above ground then at the v-stop and guide supports we recommend to apply settlement displacement in a user case e.g U1. This will allow the soil settlement to be observed as a unique loading. Then edit the sustained code case combination SUS + Gr to include U1 i.e. the settlement is added to the sustained stresses. If the piping system is buried then the imposed displacement at defined node points (with soil) would give the soil settlement profile. In other words, the base of each soil spring is subject to a displacement interpolated from adjacent nodes with imposed displacements. Hence select the range of points and Insert/xtra data / imposed support displacement = settlement value in the U1 case. To consider settlement for hanger selection, the following is recommended: Using model A, add the settlement in the T1 case and run the hanger selection to size the spring. Copy model A to Model B. Using model B, change the settlement from case T1 to case U1 and create user non-code combinations using U1 and add U1 into the sustained stress case GR+MaxP as above. Using a non-code combination e.g. GR+T1+U1 the combined movement and load on the supports including any spring hangers can be evaluated. Question 48: Can I model a Sway Brace? Answer : You could use an inclined support in the direction of restraint and enter the stiffness corresponding to the sway brace spring stiffness. Add xtra data/conc force (i.e sway brace preload ) in the direction of restraint in the GR case such that non-code combination Gr + E1 will still have the preload. Back to Index Question 49: Can I model my pipe shoe supported on a spring can with friction? Answer : Yes insert a spring at the pipe location and run a hanger selection then change spring to inclined support with the calculate hanger spring rate, 0 gaps and add friction e.g 0.3. Insert concentrated force in GR case = hanger preload at this same point. Question 50: Why are all my dynamic results positive? Answer : All results from any dynamic analysis are always signless That is positive displacements, forces and moments, support loads etc i.e. although dynamic loads are signed during the analysis phase of the solution, the results are without sign. The reason is that the results are maximum values over time and represent an envelop of maximum values. Hence in many piping configurations applied loads - whether +ve or -ve in direction will give an identical result. Although all dynamic results are always reported as positive including time history, support loads should always be considered +/- for design but be aware that the restraint load will always be in the direction of the restraint and therefore has a vector direction (therefore signed) not shown in the reported restraint report for dynamic loads (always positive). Hence it is also not recommended to create user non-code combinations of static + dynamic loads. All stress programs have this limitation. Also refer to online help - Autopipe reference information/Results Interpretation click on Dynamic Support Forces Results. Note: The Dynamic load analyses including time history are always linear i.e non-linear features such as friction, gaps, soil yielding are ignored. Back to Index Question 51: Can I create a isometric model to use in AutoCAD or Autoplant? Answer : Yes there are 3 possible DXF formats which can be exported from Autopipe. DXF file export in either 3D or 2D format and import to Autocad R14 or later. TRUE 3D DXF model (File save as DXF/ Tools/Settings/DXF Drawing Border + include 3D model = yes ) 3D LINE ISOMETRIC DXF model (File save as DXF/ Tools/Settings/DXF Drawing Border + include 3D model = no) 2D DXF model (Set the view mode = line then select Print graphics As Autocad DXF) In the 3D formats a) & b) when the DXF file is first opened in Autocad the view is a plan view by default with the drawing sheet orientated to this plan view which is consistent with 3D CAD drawings. We recommend use the 2D DXF format for a 'flat' 2 1/2D Isometric view - unfortunately no drawing border but can be copy/pasted from standard CAD drawing. OR Create a drawing border in paper space to frame all the views you want on the 3D model. Dimensions and node numbers can be sized under tools/settings/DXF export drawing border e.g change text height = 4 inches. Autopipe does not support dimensioning lines only length offsets shown on the pipe centerline. Question 52: Why does the legend for the interactive code scan show a maximum value = 1.0 for stresses? Answer : When the stress criteria (not ratio) is selected in the Result/code scan, the color coding is based on the ratio of the calculated stress divided by the largest stress value in the model. The element is colored based on the highest stress ratio at either end of the element. Back to Index Question 53: My B31.3 code stress is showing an overstress in the hoop stress (Max P) case? Answer : Suggest check the mill tolerance, corrosion allowance and pressure at the points of overstress. Note: Miter bends have a different hoop stress calculation to straight pipe. Autopipe is based on the more conservative B31.3 equation 3a. Note: Autopipe always defaults to Y factor = 0.4 (i.e carbon steel =900F), for different materials and/or higher temperatures change the Y-factor under Tools model options /Results "Y Factor". Default weld efficiency factor = 1.0. Autopipe 6.X Online help topic Autopipe Reference information / Code Compliance Calculations/ASME B31.1 hoop stress calculation. Question 54: I open my archived model and it appears blank. Why? Answer : When files are archived to read only media like CD-R they are assigned a file attribute = R (read only) but Autopipe requires the model file (*.DAT) to have a file attribute = A (archive). Back to Index Question 55: Sometimes my Autoplant valves imported from the PXF neutral file have zero weight. Why? Answer : Valve weights are read from the Autoplant PXF fil. If no weights are available in the AutoPLANT model then Autopipe will attempt to set the weight based on its own valve library using the valve size, valve type e.g. gate, globe etc and pressure rating e.g 150, 300 etc. If any of these three criteria do not exist e.g ball valves are not in the default valve library then the weight will be set = 0. Question 56: How can I change my Y-vertical axis model to Z-vertical? Answer : Autopipe was not designed to change the vertical axis for an existing model since coordinates and supports (except springs, v-stops and guides) may be messed up. However the model can be saved as a Autopipe neutral NTL file (File/save as batch NTL). Open this NTL file in Notepad.exe then change Y-vertical model to Z-vertical model by changing the Y to Z in the CTL line below Save the NTL file and in Autopipe select File open/ batch NTL. When the model is imported back into Autopipe it will have to be rotated (possibly other transformations) to orientate the model as it was before and then check all the supports are correctly orientated. Back to Index Question 57: Why does my bend look disconnected from the pipe on the screen? Answer : Bends may appear disconnected but this is only a plotting limitation and to check bend connectivity with the piping system, use the keyboard left/right arrow keys to move the cursor along the pipe and around the bend. Question 58: How can I define a branch SIF using B31.1 Fig D-1 sketch d)? Answer : Autopipe currently does not calculate to Fig D-1 B31.1 but the SIF can manually be calculated then applied using insert/xtra data/user SIF on the branch side of the Tee only. The B31.1 branch effective section modulus is calculated by Autopipe = pi rm^2 te since rm is same as rb on Fig D-1 B31.1 (d) then suggest insert a small run with different pipe identifier having a thickness when used in the section modulus calculation will be equivalent to tb. Where te = smaller of tn or i.tb hence equivalent branch thk = actual tb/ SIF calculated from Fig D-1 B31.1 assuming i.tb is smaller than tn. Back to Index Question 59: Does my expansion joint include contents weight? Answer : Autopipe does not automatically include the contents weight across a flexible joint therefore this weight must be included in the total component weight. Also valves and reducers do include contents weight but nozzle elements do not. Question 60: Why do I I keep getting a warning message "W831-1, Combinations include cases not analyzed"? Answer : This warning message "W831-1" means either a user non-code or code combination has been created but a load case defined in that combination has not been analyzed. Note: When a user combination is defined both the non-code and code combination list is fixed i.e. if additional loads cases are analyzed then default code and non-code combinations are not created. To have the program create the new default combinations then select Tools/code combinations/reset all or Tools/non-code combinations/reset all, this will remove any user combinations. Back to Index Question 61: How do I make a mirror copy of a section of piping? Answer : To make a mirror copy : Select the pipe section to mirror copy. Edit / copy and select appropriate base point. Edit /paste to and paste the copied section to the new location. Select the copied section Edit/scale Enter -1 to mirror those offsets e.g of mirror about the Z-axis then enter -1,1,1 i.e reverses all the -ve X offsets Question 62: How do I define the coefficient of lift for wave loading? Answer : The lift coefficient (CL) is typically applied only to the seabed piping and is only defined under Insert/xtra data/hydrodynamic data. By default CL = 0. Back to Index Question 63: Can you provide any references for buried pipe design? Answer : Some references are listed below: Buried Pipe Design by A.P. Moser Publisher: McGraw-Hill Reference: Guidelines for the Seismic Design of Oil and Gas Pipeline Systems - ASCE Committee on Gas and Liquid Fuel Lifelines -1984 Soil Properties : Testing,Measurement and evaluation by Cheng Liu and Jack Evett ISBN 0-13-0200069-7 Publisher : Prentice Hall Soil Mechanics in Engineering Practice by Karl Terzaghi Publisher : John Wiley & Sons Essence of soil Soil Mechanics and Foundations : Basic Geotechnics by David F Mc Carthy. Publisher : Prentice Hall. Guidelines for the Design of Buried Steel Pipe - July 2001 by ASCE Click the following link. http://www.americanlifelinesalliance.org/pdf/buried_pipe.pdf Question 64: How do I model the discharge piping accurately relative to my suction Piping? Answer : To model the discharge piping accurately follow the steps below: Place the cursor on the suction point Insert / Segment (see screen bitmap below) Enter New first point name e.g AY00 Enter suction point in the "Offset from which point" e.g AW07 Enter offsets DX, DY, DZ Enter or select pipe identifier for the discharge piping Click Ok Then continue building the new discharge segment Back to Index Question 65: How do I model different parts of the piping system inside and outside a building for wind loads? Answer : You will need to model the section of pipe inside the building as a different segment to the outside piping. On the main wind dialog, uncheck the option "All segments exposed to wind" and after all the wind loads have been defined, a segment dialog will appear which you can select or de-select the segments which will have wind loading applied to them. Question 66: What does LOC mean in the General Stress Report? Answer : General Stress location Total stress is calculated every 15 deg and the zero degree axis for the total stress location angle in a clockwise direction around the pipe. The 0 degree axis is the local axis of the pipe cross-section, i.e. perpendicular to the pipe axis, corresponding to the resultant in-plane bending moment. For example, if the local bending moments are my and mz, then arctan (my/mz) is the location of the 0 degree reference axis for the general stress location relative to the local y axis. Note: For straight pipe in-plane bending is arbitrary since no plane of bending like an elbow. Axial stress: fx/A in-plane bending stress: my/Z out-plane bending stress: mz/Z where, fx = local axial force my = local in-plane bending moment mz = local out-plane bending moment Back to Index Question 67: How can I determine axial (tension or compression) and bending stress in the pipe? Answer : Refer to the general stress report . Axial stress = 1/2 x(sum of the longitudinal Max and min stresses) Stress convention +ve = tension -ve = compression Note: Local forces convention -ve = tension +ve = compression Note: P1 force does not include the capped internal pressure force. However this pressure force PiAi can be manually subtracted from the Local-X P1 force to give a true P1 axial force i.e Total P1 = P1 - PiAi Resultant Bending stress = 1/2 x(longitudinal Max - longitudinal min stresses) (always +ve stress since using resultant bending moment) Question 68: How do I model a ball joint with high inertial moment stiffness? Answer : The conservative approach would be to add a constant moment at one end of the flexible joint. Back to Index Question 69: Please confirm the recommended value of the added mass coefficient, Cm for a circular cylinder according to DNV Rules for Submarine Pipeline Systems - 1981 - Fig. A.7. Answer : Sorry for the confusion Cm and Ci are inter-changeable in Autopipe i.e mass (inertia) coefficient in Buoyancy, Wave Load Hydrodynamic Data dialogs. So Autopipe (Cm)is inertia coefficient but DNV 81 (Cm) is the added mass coefficient. Where Autopipe Mass coefficient (Cm) is the inertia coefficient(i.e. 1 + added mass coeff) [where added mass coeff = Range 2.29 to 1.0 (no fixed boundary) as per DNV'81 Figure A.7), hence Autopipe Cm(Ci) = 3.29 to 2.0] We will be updating the program and help in v7.0 to clarify the definition of these coefficients. The only Cm (inertia) used in the modal analysis is the Cm value in the buoyancy loading dialog. Question 70: How do I define one constant Hydrotest pressure over the whole model? Answer : The hydrotest pressure defined under Load/hydrotest dialog is taken as the pressure (usually case 1) multiplied by the factor e.g. 1.5 at each point hence for case 1 if different pressures in the system e.g branch line then the hydrotest pressure will be different for the branch. A workaround if on hydrotest pressure for all points then define a dummy temperature and pressure case 2 which has one constant pressure for the whole model and no temperature loading i.e ambient and define the hydrotest pressure based on case 2. Back to Index Question 71: What are the Participation Factors and the Captured Modal Mass in the frequency report? Answer : The participation factor is a measure of the importance of the mode in earthquake type load. The captured modal mass is another way of quantifying the importance of the mode and the two are related. The captured modal mass percentage tells how much of the response is atributed to a particular mode and also tells on the mode orientation (X,Y or Z). The sum of modal masses should be 100% if all modes are counted. But since many modes are not counted, the sum is less than 100 and hence the importance of the ZPA and missing mass options for dynamic analysis. Please refer to the topic "Missing Mass and ZPA Correction" in the online help for more information. The participation factors are calculated from the product of the mode shape, the mass matrix and a vector of ones. For mode i the participation factor is calculated as: Participation_Factor_i= Transpose(ModeShape_i) * MassMatrix * {1} The mode shape is mass normalized. The above equation is used three times for X, Y and Z directions. The mass participation report illustrates how sensitive each of the piping system's modes are to the dynamic loading. High modal participation factors indicate that the mode is easily excited by the applied dynamic forces. If subsequent displacement reports indicate high dynamic responses then the modes having high participation factors must be dampened or eliminated. Once a particular mode is targeted as being a problem, it may be viewed in the mode shape report, or graphically via the animated mode shape plots. Question 72: When should I perform a pressure analysis? Answer : Some guidelines are a pressure analysis should be performed when some significant strain due to pressure can result for example: Systems with expansion joints. Low modulus piping e.g plastic or FRP Large pressure on steel piping systems e.g 500psi Large diameter e.g =30" diameter with moderate pressure. Back to Index Question 73: The Autopipe help states " When the rise time several times larger than the 2L/a time, the calculated pressure rise in AutoPIPE might be conservative. For this special case, the use of a fluid simulation software is recommended if P2 case is critical ." What does this mean? Answer : Check for maximum surge pressure (static (362)+ rise (228) =590 psi). This should be added as a second pressure case (P2). Use Tools/Model Options/General and set number of operating cases to 2. Use Select/All Points and follow by Modify/Pressure & Temperature and set design pressure for P2 to 590 psi. When the rise time several times larger than the 2L/a time, the calculated pressure rise in AutoPIPE might be conservative. For this special case, the use of a fluid simulation software is recommended if P2 case is critical and causes an overstress condition in the pipework. If P2=590 psi governs the design, that is critical, the use of fluid simulation software is recommended since AutoPIPE value would be too conservative. Question 74: My seabed piping shows a large unexpected displacement. Can you please explain? Answer : When the 2nd soil stiffness (K2) is set to zero, the pipe displacement can be large or can cause instability as the soil yields. Most soils especially sand have a parabolic force-displacement shape and a larger K2 value is justified but it is conservative to assume a small K2 value. It is advisable with a model so sensitive to changing the K2 value, to examine the soil displacements and forces for more detailed evaluation of yielding e.g. as seen in the soil forces report the horizontal soil force is about 176 kg/m at A78 compared to the P1 value is only 145.8 kg/m hence the soil does not have enough lateral resistance to support this pipe. Back to Index Question 75: How do I enter cold spring into my main steam model? Answer : Cold Spring or Cut short in pipe stress programs can only be applied as a fixed displacement value not a percentage of thermal expansion since the amount of cold spring it is unknown until the completion of the static analysis. This cut short value is equivalent to removing this amount of pipe from the overall length. Therefore a previous static analysis run should have been performed The maximum thermal expansion in all 3 global directions is found from a static analysis between 2 anchored points then the cutshort is calculated in the 3 global directions and applied generally at one location. To apply cutshort in 3 directions it is necessary to insert a small pipe in the direction of these 3 global cut short values e.g. Dx = 3", Dy = 4" , DZ = 5" then apply the cutshort as a resultant value e.g. 7.07" at the end of this short pipe run. Important Note: Piping codes do NOT permit reducing sustained or thermal stress range using cold spring. Therefore it is recommended to apply the cut short in Autopipe using the User load case = U1. Create user Non-code combinations = Gr+P1+T1+U1 and GR+U1 to examine the resultant loads on equipment and supports. Question 76: Given that point A11 is the TIP of a long-radius bend, how are the near and far points related to A11 N-, A11 N+, A11 F-, and A11 F+? Answer : A11 N- = on the straight pipe adjacent to near point A11 N+ = on the bend side adjacent to near point A11 F- = on the bend side adjacent to far point A11 F+ = on the straight pipe adjacent to far point Back to Index Question 77: When I insert a midpoint there is a big difference in the natural frequencies, can you please explain? Answer : It is important you perform all modal and dynamic analyses with automatic mass discretization to capture the dynamic mass in the system. Recommend you set under tools/model options/Edit "Mass points per span" = A to allow the program to automatically perform mass discretization on your model for improved accuracy for the dynamic analysis. Question 78: When performing seismic analysis, can AutoPIPE do multi support excitation? Answer : No but it is common to envelope spectrums to provide a maximum response. This feature is available in AutoPIPE 2004 (v8.6). Back to Index Question 79: How can I print an echo of the input response spectra (load)? Answer : AutoPIPE cannot at this time print an echo of the input response spectra. You can, however, manually send the spectrum files (.spc) to the printer. Question 80: Where do I input stress range reduction factor? Answer : Tools/Model Options/Results...right hand column, second line down. Back to Index Question 81: How can I look up the units for a flexible anchor for translational and rotational stiffness? Answer : Select unit in question and read units designation in lower right hand corner of screen. Question 82: I have been working with AutoPIPE 8.05.01.11. How do you print in version 6.3 when there are no grids? Answer : Go to Results/Output Report and select which items you want to print. Then in the Output Report go to File/Print. Back to Index Question 83: Can AutoPIPE run a flange check and if so, how? Answer : Yes, AutoPIPE can run a flange check. In the flange dialog box check "ANSI Check", select the flange class and material and select the gasket material. AutoPIPE automatically runs the flange check. Question 84: I am looking at a tutorial for water hammer called apham1. I have noticed that between A06 and C00 there is, essentially, a split between the supply and discharge lines of the imaginary pump (each is anchored and flanged). I didn't know this could be done. Could you help me to get this same type of arrangement set up for a similar project I am working on? Answer : Select the suction nozzle where you want to add a discharge nozzle. Press F3 and note the coordinates. Using your pump drawing calculate the coordinates of your discharge nozzle. Go to Insert/Segment and set the first point number (i.e if new segment is C then first point would be named C00), and input the discharge nozzle coordinates. Insert you anchor and proceed. Note: If the pump is changed or if you need to adjust the position of the discharge then Select the discharge segment and use the Edit/Move command. Back to Index Question 85: When coding a tie/link for an expansion joint what is considered gap forward and what is considered gap backward? Answer : The gap forward will allow the near end of the joint to move forward (compress the joint). The gap backward will allow extension of the joint. Question 86: How do you close a loop? Answer : Go to Insert/Run. The dialog box will show you the existing point (from) and the next point (to). Change the "to" point to the one you want to close with. Enter "OK" and the loop will close. Note: A segment cannot be connected back on itself e.g. to form Ring manifold a 2nd small segment is required to close the 'Ring' using Insert /Segment. Back to Index Question 87: I am working on a system which a two phase liquid. For the stress analysis, which specific gravity should I use? Should I consider the true representative by getting the average or just use the higher specific gravity? Answer : For slugging flow induced by the two phase flow, the SG of the liquid should be used. Question 88: Does AutoPIPE assume the contents of the pipes are full of water? If so, is there a setting available to modify the specific gravity (or other item) to model a different fluid? Answer : Go to Modify/Properties of a Pipe Identifier to enter the fluid Specific Gravity. Back to Index Question 89: Is there a way to easily modify the allowable stress for the custom piping I have put into the model? I am using Code B-7159. Answer : For Code BS7159 the Allowable Stress is not entered. The Design Strain is. The Design Strain value is used for the calculation of the allowable design stress corresponding to the operating load condition. The default value is set to the cold design strain as defined in the Pipe dialog. If a load combination does not include any operating loads, then the smallest design strain of all the operating loads will be used. Go to Modify/Pressure & Temperature for the operating design strain and Modify/Properties of a Pipe Identifier for the cold design strain. Question 90: Please explain the $T1 and $T2 load case data? Answer : Loadcases T1 and T2 already existed under a linear analysis and AutoPIPE could not create duplicate loadcases with the same name. So, it renamed the cases as $T1 and $T2. Please note that when you ran a non-linear analysis and established user cases T1 and T2 the other T1 and T2 cases did not exist. But when you ran a linear analysis, and T1 and T2 were created. AutoPIPE renamed your existing user T1 and T2 cases to avoid a programming conflict. Back to Index Question 91: Seismic load needs to be run with friction. How do I turn it on? Answer : Go to Analyze/Static and turn on Gaps/Friction/Soil. Select OK. Uncheck the Ignore Friction for E1 to E10 box and select OK again. Question 92: How do I change a temperature over a range? Answer : Select the starting point of your range and, while holding down the Shift key, select the end point of your range. Go to Modify/Pressure and Temperature and type in the new temperatures. To view go to View/Show/Temperature. Note: Modify/Operating Load by value allows any temperature or pressure in the complete model to be changed to a different value. Back to Index Question 93: In the Hanger Selection Analysis dialog, it is displaying V-Stop as supports whereas the user has spring hangers. What criteria does it use to determine the supports? Answer : If the movement at the location where you want the spring is less than the value in the Rigid Hanger Criterion box, the program will enter a V-stop. The default value is 0.1 inch. To always have a spring selected then change this value to 0. Question 94: If the modal displacements are a unitless number, what is their value based on? Answer : The modal displacements are mass normalized which means they divided by the the following matrix transformation. Back to Index Question 95: How do I hide node numbers? Answer : There are three ways to Hide/Show node points. Hold down Ctrl and depress N. Click the toolbar icon with E-15 on it. Go to View/Show/Point Names. Question 96: How do I print to AutoCAD DXF? Answer : Go to File/Save As/DXF Note: Tools/Settings/DXF Export Drawing border provides many options to change the drawing sheet size, units, text size, line thickness and drawing margins. Back to Index Question 97: How to increment point numbers by 5 instead of the default increment of 1? Answer : Tools/Model Options/Edit and change "Default point name offset" to 5. Question 98: I am looking for a quick way of changing the piping orientation and I do not want to start to input the model again. I would like to change the orientation of the horizontal leg to start from the X and Z plane at 45 degrees. Answer : Highlight the area in question by selecting the first point and holding the shift button down while selecting the second point. Go to Edit/Rotate and input the base point (the point that you want to rotate about) and enter OK. Input the number of degrees rotation desired and the axis of rotation and enter OK. Back to Index Question 99: What is the method for stress analysis of pipe settlement when loading traffic? Answer : After modeling soil points, use support displacements at piping points which have soil defined over them to simulate the soil settlement and then apply a uniform load to simulate the traffic loading. Note: If no Soil is defined then insert V-stops with applied support displacement = soil settlement. Question 100: Is there an easy way to change temperatures over a range using the input grids? Answer : See steps below. Using the Pres/Temp/Pipe ID tab of the Input Grid enter the temperature at the first point that you want to change. Hold down the Shift key, select the last point in the temperature range. This will highlight the range of cells. Hold down the CTRL key, press Enter, and the temperatures over that range will be updated. Note: Using the CTRL key can do multiple unconnected selection ranges like EXCEL. The new temperature can be entered after the range is selected also. Back to Index Question 101: I am running 12 thermal loadcases (Code B31.1). I noticed in the code combinations that the range from ambient to T1....T12 are considered, however, the total range for all twelve cases are not shown. For example only "T1 to T2"; "T1 to T3" and "T2 to T3" are shown. Answer : Go to Tools/Model Options/Results and enter 2 to 20 in the No. of thermal ranges option. Note: v8.5 has a new Include Max Range comb option which automatically shows only the maximum thermal stress and the corresponding combination it is occuring at every point including both ambient to all hot cases and all the thermal ranges. This is very useful to quickly find the maximum thermal stress and not have review and print all the ambient to hot and thermal range cases. Question 102: Where can I find a sample for a pressure balanced expansion joint? Answer : Go to Help/Contents/Modeling Approaches/Modeling Approaches/Flexible Joints/Pressure Balanced Expansion Joints. Back to Index Question 103: How does AutoPIPE decide the allowable stresses on pipes? Answer : Material allowable stresses are per code. The default values for weld efficiency factors are 1, but these values can be adjusted by going to Insert/Xtra Data/User Weld Efficiency Factors and inputting a lower value when warranted. Question 104: How do you know if the axial forces on a flange are in compression, simply by looking at the forces and moments report? Answer : Go to Tools/Model Options/Results and set Force (Global/Local) to L for local. That will set X as axial to the pipe regardless of its global orientation. Now if you examine your Forces_Moments and Flange Reports, you will see that a negative value will show a tensile force. Also see questions 67. Back to Index Question 105: For Hanger Selection what is considered for spring sizing, cold setting or hot setting? Answer : The current default hanger selection method uses hot setting or hot load design. There is no automatic option at this time to use cold setting or cold load design. To perform a cold load design: Method A Tools/Model Options/General , add one more temperature case for the model and define at ambient temperature. Set rigid displacement critera = 0 (so springs are automatically selected even though no thermal displacement) Run the hanger selection with variation = 0.25 at the new ambient temperature case only. Springs are all designed now at cold load, change number of temperature cases in Tools/Model Options/General to the original number before step 1 or ignore analyzing this thermal case. Method B Set rigid displacement critera = 100" Run hanger selection with variation = 0.25 Save hanger report Re-run hanger selection with rigid displacement critera = 0.1" Edit all hangers and replace the cold load value by the V-stop reaction found in step 3. Method A is simpler to execute but all springs selected are the stiffest lowest range hence if design load variation is low e.g. 10% then the spring rates for many springs will need to be updated. Method B requires all cold loads to be updated manually on all springs. The load variation on all springs also needs to be checked and some spring rates may need to be changed. Now run a static analysis and confirm vertical displacement = 0 under GR at each spring hanger point. Also recalculate the load variation ratio as [(GR+T1)-GR]/GR = T1/GR Confirm that both hot and cold reactions can be satisfied by the selected hanger Advantages of cold load design: Hanger stops are easier to remove GR displacement small Spring loads can be adjusted before system is brought up to temperature Some consider that cold load approach yields a more dependable design In some system configurations, operating loads on connected equipment are lower. A typical configuration resulting in this load reduction is one where a hot vertical riser, anchored at the bottom, turns horizontally into a nozzle connection. Disadvantages of cold load design: In some systems, in the hot condition the loads on rotating equipment may be increased by a value proportional to spring rate times the travel. Most installations are done on a hot load design basis since the piping system is operating in the hot condition for most of its project lifecycle. Question 106: What is Weightless or As-built when considering gapped supports? Answer : Gaps may be specified to be set either As- built (weighted) or weightless. If a gap is As- built, it is assumed to be open (i.e. no support) for the gravity load case, then it is set to the specified gap AFTER the gravity load is applied. The stop will then engage only if the pipe displacement due to thermal expansion or any other loads exceeds the gap. In effect, a support with an As- built gap moves with the pipe for gravity load, then remains stationary for thermal and other loads. On the other hand, if the gap is specified in the weightless condition, the gap can change when the gravity load is applied, and the stop may engage. There is one important exception. If a value of zero is specified for any gap, it is always assumed that this zero gap is of the weightless type (i.e., the corresponding stop may engage under gravity load). This is done because we have found that users will generally assume that a zero-gap support acts in this way. If a gap is required to be zero and to be set in the As- built condition (i.e. just closed under gravity load, with zero support load) specify a small, nonzero value (e.g., 0.002 inches). Back to Index Question 107: In the output report why does the Results Summary reflect two different Occasional Cases? Answer : The first summary lists the Maximum Occasional Stress and the second lists the Maximum Occasional Stress Ratio. These are very often the same but not always Max Ratio=Stress/Allowable Stress. Question 108: Why does the code compliance report show an SIF = 1 for the Sustained Case and 1.3 for all other cases? Answer : See tools/Model Options/ Results/Set Sustained SIF to 1. This field is only active for the B31.1-1967, B31.3, B31.4, B31.8, DNV, SNCT, CAN-Z662, and KHK level1 codes (it is closed for all others). These codes define stress intensification factors (SIF's) for the expansion stress category only. This option has been provided since no guidelines are presented for the sustained and occasional stress categories. If disabled, AutoPIPE will apply the expansion category SIF's to all other stress categories. When it is enabled, an SIF of 1.00 is used for the sustained category at all points except bends, and the expansion category SIF's are applied to the occasional category. By default this field is disabled for all applicable codes except B31.1-1967. Back to Index Question 109: If a user hasn't saved his model in a while (old bak file) and lost his model by accident, can he use his U0x file and change it to a dat? Answer : U01, U02 etc up to U99 are actually DAT files. Rename any of the U0x files to DAT and you can retrieve the latest model. Question 110: Does AutoPIPE display "Von Mises" as well as "Tresca" stresses on the output report? Answer: Yes, select Tools Model Options Results Total Stresses (Oct/Max). 'O' represents the maximum octahedral shear (Von Mises) stress, and M represents Max Shear Stress (where Max Shear Stress = Tresca stress/2). Create 2 output reports in order to display the stresses in the General Stress Calculation section or uncheck the "Overwrite output file" option on the Tools Model Options Results dialog. Also, these stresses could be displayed as a Code Combination, select Help Contents Command Reference User-Defined Code Combinations Category For all code options … Back to Index Question 111: How do you set up WinNOZL to work with AutoPIPE? Answer: Install WinNOZL to the default installation directory. Move the entire WinNOZL folder/directory to become a subfolder/directory of AutoPIPE, i.e. C:\Program Files\Bentley\AutoPIPE\WinNOZL. Update any desktop icons and Start Program folder icons as necessary. Back to Index Question 112 On the support output report, the GR's load is not equal to the spring Preload. Why? Answer: The output report GR reaction is calculated and may not be the same as the design Preload. The Preload (cold load) is extracted from the Hanger analysis report. Using the calculated hot load and the travel distance from the design operating case, the cold load is extracted from the spring manufacturers tables. Back to Index Question 113: How do you model Cryogenic piping? Companies like Air Products and York Refrigerant use B31.3 for all their refrigerant or cryogenic piping using AutoPIPE. It is not necessary to use B31.5 Please follow the suggested steps below: B31.3 code compliance case to figure 323.2.2B to avoid Impact Testing for carbon steels. Combined longitudinal stress due to pressure, dead weight, and displacement strain (stress intensification factors are not included in this calculation) divided by S, at the design minimum temperature. In calculating longitudinal stress, the forces and moments in the piping system shall be calculated using nominal dimensions and the stresses calculated using section properties based on the nominal dimensions less corrosion, erosion and mechanical allowances. S = nominal design stress at low temperature AutoPIPE Modeling: Create a model with one(1) T1, P1 case, with low temp and pressure, so the sustained case (SUS) and (LONG) are based on correct pressure. Analyze with GR, T1, pressure analysis = ON Create a user defined code combination as follows: method = abs sum category = occasional/li combination = (LONG) + GR + cold to T1(s) + P1 The automatic Allowable = K. SH (i.e. S at low temp) Set the K factor = 1.0 under tools/ code combinations/ occasional load factor. This combination does add GR, and P1 at the moment level (abs sum) before calculating its stress, which is reasonably conservative, i.e. no moment cancellation in summing the load cases. Less conservative method is to use SUM combination method. Also adding thermal stress separately is conservative. Select all Tees and Bends and Insert Xtra Data User SIF = 1.0 (both in-plane and out-plane). Tools Model Options Results, "Use Nominal Thickness" = unchecked The calculated stress ratio can be used to evaluate the temperature reduction below the minimum design metal temperature for carbon steel to clause 323.2.2d(1) and Fig 323.2.2B. Back to Index Question 114: My AutoPIPE application runs slowly on my computer, what can I do? One or more of the following suggestions should help a slow computer using AutoPIPE: Does the computer meet the minimum requirements? See Help Contents Bentley AutoPIPE Getting Started Installation and Authorization Installation System Requirements. Change hardware acceleration inside AutoPIPE, View Settings, uncheck Enable hardware acceleration. In AutoPIPE, View Level of Detail, check the option to switch to line mode (and may be also try 3 other options). Change computer display properties: Control Panel Disply Settings tab Advanced button Troubleshoot tab, select a lower hardware acceleration. This may be an iterative process. Control Panel Display Appearance? Effects, the 'Use transition effects for menus and tool tips' option should be unchecked. Update computer's OPENGL display drivers. Check to verify that model size has a limitation of 10,000 points: Tools Model Input Listing Extended Components Number of Points in the System. Also, you may want to consider defragmenting your hard drive. This can be done (in XP) by going to Programs/Accessories/System Tools/Disk Defragmenter. If your hard drive is very fragmented, the program has to write data in a lot of different locations, and it slows down considerably. If that does not work, suggest updating the video card, increasing the systems memory, and/or updating the CPU. Check out a license from the Select Server and unplug the network/internet connection. Reboot the system and start AutoPIPE. If none of these suggestions have helped, please submit a help desk request to support@bentley.com. Please include the computer's system information. Start Programs Accessories System Tools System Information. After the program has been opened, select File Export, then save the file and send a copy for inspection. Back to Index See Also Product TechNotes and FAQs External Links Bentley Technical Support KnowledgeBase Bentley LEARN Server Comments or Corrections? Bentley's Technical Support Group requests that you please confine any comments you have on this Wiki entry to this "Comments or Corrections?" section. THANK YOU!  

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Newsfeed Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Problem: How do I know when a new relase is available for AutoPIPE products? Answer: AutoPIPE product updates are created as needed. Notification of these updates are included in a Bentley Press release or Newsletter which is sent to those who have signed up to receive Select Newstream for  Structural Analysis and Design . See the following procedure to sign up to start receiving the Bentley Newsletter: Procedure: Log into the www.Bentley.com website. (if you cannot log in please contact Bentley for Web related issues). Select Support and Service from the blue bar near the top of the web page and press on Support as shown below. Select Personal Profile from the Account Management listing. Press Edit at the end of the Communication Preference. Bentley AutoPIPE falls under "Structural Analysis and Design". Check all Newsletters and Product intrest that apply. Recommend the minimum be checked on and press SAVE in lower right corner of the screen: 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!

Attention:   Bentley AutoPIPE V8i product web site AutoPIPE Editions: AutoPIPE is available in the following editions: Standard, Advanced (PLUS), and Nuclear.  The following AutoPIPE online help page provides a table which illustrates the different capabilities of these 3 AutoPIPE editions: Help Contents Contents Tab Bentley AutoPIPE Getting Started  AutoPIPE V8i Standard vs Advanced vs Nuclear. Be sure to review the information links at the bottom of this page: See Also: Limits of Standard vs Advanced vs Nuclear Piping Codes by Program Editions Note: 1. If a model was created by an AutoPIPE edition (i.e. Nuclear) that used feature specific to that editions (i.e Piping code = ASME NB) and was later opened by a version that did not have the same capabilities. Some settings would be automatically changed and would need to be manually changed by the user. Review the following for a complete list of changes made by the program or required before analyzing the model: 1. systemname.CHK file - this file is automatically displayed by AutoPIPE Report viewer after the model has been opened. Or, see the current model folder location. This file that can be opened with any word editing software (i.e. MS Word, NotePAD, etc..) 2. Tools Model Consistency Check report. reduce the number of errors and warnings to as few as possible. 3. Tools Design Check, reduce the number of errors and warnings to as few as possible. 2. If a model was created in a lower edition (ex. Standard) and opened in a higher AutoPIPE edition (ex. Advanced). Nothing will changed in the model as each higher level of edition contains all the features of the lower level(s). Example,  AutoPIPE Standard model with 5 Static earthquake cases was opened in  AutoPIPE Advanced or Nuclear. No changes are made to the model as both Advanced and Nuclear edition supports up to 10 static earthquake cases. To reinforce Note #1, if an Advanced model with 10 static earthquake cases was opened in a AutoPIPE Standard, static earthquake cases 6, 7, 8, 9, & 10 would be automatically deleted from the model. 3. See the following for a complete list of AutoPIPE versions released to the public: Current version: (verify your version and UPDATE) AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.00.15 (update 09.06.00.19 released April 2014) AutoPIPE V8i 09.05.00.21 (Update 09.05.01.02*, 09.05.01.05*) AutoPIPE V8i 09.04.00.19 (Update 09.04.01.05*) AutoPIPE V8i 09.03.00.08 (Update 09.03.01.07, 09.03.02.05*) AutoPIPE V8i 09.02.01.07** (Update 09.02.02.09, 09.02.03.02*) AutoPIPE V8i 09.01.01.02* (Patch 09.01.01.03, 09.01.01.04, 09.01.01.05) AutoPIPE XM 09.00.00.08* (Patch 09.00.00.09, 09.00.00.11, 09.00.00.12) AutoPIPE XM 08.09.00.14* (Patch 08.09.00.15, 08.09.00.16) AutoPIPE 2004 08.06.00.12* (Patch 08.06.00.14, 08.06.00.15) AutoPIPE 2004 08.05.01.11 (Patch 08.05.01.21) * = ATS (QA&R) versions ** = 1st version to run on Win 7 Opening a file with AutoPIPE: Any version of AutoPIPE can and will open any DAT file created by the program. However, there are rules: ___Rule #1: Only open a model DAT file created by the current version or higher (Example: if a model DAT file was crated in AutoPIPE 2004 v. 8.6, that file can be safely opened in v8.6 or higher version number (ex. V9.4).  ___Rule #2: DO NOT open a model created by a newer version in an older version without using the File Save AS command in the new version. (Example: if using AutoPIPE V8i 9.4.1.5, and the model was save using the File Save commend, DO NOT open it in any version of the program lower than v.9.4.1.5. The correct procedure; with the model open in the higher version, use File Save As command Select the version that will open the model i.e. 9.0; this will automatically append “_V90” to the file name alerting you to the fact the file was correctly saved from a newer release of the program to an older file structure. ____Rule #3: If Rule #2 was broken, when opening a model created by a newer (ex.V9.4) version in an older version (ex. V9.0) the following will appear: --------------------------- Confirm --------------------------- Model was first created in : 09.00.00.05 Model was last modified in : 09.04.01.05 Current product version : 09.00.00.08 The model you are about to open was last modified in a newer version of the product and may not be compatible with the current version. You should contact Bentley`s technical support for compatibility information on this model before opening it. Saving or analyzing the model in the current version may result in the loss or corruption of the model data. Do you want to continue with opening this model? --------------------------- Yes No Cancel --------------------------- Selecting “Yes” button WILL corrupt the model the very moment the model is displayed on the screen. There is no fixing a corrupted model. Selecting “No” button will close the model without opening (recommend) Selecting “Cancel” button stops the open command. Exception to Rule #3, typically model can be opened by same version family, but still recommend using the File Save-as command from the higher version. (Example: model was created in 9.1.1.5, not recommended, but can open with 9.1.1.2. The warning above will still appear but is acceptable.   Information and Suggestions for all new user: 1. Highly suggested to attend an official AutoPIPE training class.  Contact your account manager for options and costs for AutoPIPE training.  2. Read all PDF files located under, AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.xx.xx and higher - C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\Documents\ a. AutoPIPE_Tutorial.pdf b. Non_Linear_Load_Sequencing.pdf c. ProjectWise Integration.pdf d. AutoPIPE Quick Reference.pdf e.Quickstart_AutoPIPE.pdf f. StressISO_Troubleshooting.pdf AutoPIPE V8i 09.05.xx.xx and lower - C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ a. apdoc.pdf - AutoPIPE manual, b. Load_Sequencing.pdf- Understanding how combinations are combined c. ProjectWise Integration.pdf d. AutoPIPE Quick Reference.pdf - 1 page cheat sheet e. Quickstart_AutoPIPE.pdf - how to download and install the application f. StressISO_Troubleshooting.pdf 3. See typical modeling approaches; Please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Contents Tab Modeling Approaches Modeling Approaches 4. See example systems located: a. Please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Contents Tab Modeling Approaches Example Systems The Example Systems provided in this chapter include the following: Pipe-Soil Interaction: Transition Example Water Hammer Example Steam Relief Example Harmonic Analysis Example b. Additional examples: AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.xx.xx and higher - C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\Documents\ -  ASME_ND_With_HDPE_Support_Walkthrough_Rev2.pdf -  AutoPIPE_ASME_NB_Example.pdf -  AutoPIPE_MSRS_Example1.pdf -  Hot_Clash_tutorial.pdf -  Tutorial - Import Coordinates from Excel to AutoPIPE.pdf -  Tutorial - Soil Overburden and Seismic Wave Propagation in AutoPIPE.pdf -  Tutorial-ASME_B311_With_HDPE.pdf -  Tutorial-DNV-OS-F101-2012.pdf AutoPIPE V8i 09.05.xx.xx and lower - C:\Bentley\AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\example -   AutoPIPE_ASME_NB_Example.pdf -  AutoPIPE_MSRS_Example1.pdf -  Hot_Clash_tutorial.pdf -  PIPELINK_tutorial.pdf 5. Review each option under menu option Help: a. Help Desk - online help manual b. Toolbar - info on AutoPIPE toolbars c. Tutorial - How to videos d. Work book - modeling approaches and example systems e. AutoPIPE News - RSS news feed about AutoPIPE release dates and free classes f. Online Resources - Various web links related to AutoPIPE. e. About - Application version 6. AutoPIPE FAQ Please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Contents Tab Bentley AutoPIPE Frequently Asked Questions FAQ document 7. Search the Bentley Be communities: See the following Bentley Communities web page: http://communities.bentley.com/   Place your cursor in the Search Field and type "AutoPIPE (addtional catch words) ", and press enter to see a list of entries that match your search criteria. Filter the results to just those items of interest, (i.e. forums, WIKI, etc..)  8. Search the Knowledge Search utility: Like Bentley Be community Wiki pages, additional known issues and solutions can be found on the KnowledgeBase search utility at the following link:  http://appsnet.bentley.com/kbase/   9. Bentley Learn server (  http://learn.bentley.com/app/Public  ) for both live and on-demand learning opportunities for the following learning paths: AutoPIPE Designer Learning Path The Bentley AutoPIPE V8i Designer learning path is the recommended progression of professional development for Designer who use Bentley's piping analysis software AutoPIPE. Users accrue one Learning Unit for each hour of AutoPIPE training they complete. These Learning Units are Bentley Institute’s equivalent to Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and are added to a personal online transcript that demonstrates professional growth over time. The LIVE training and OnDemand eLearning options in the Learning Path are all based on V8i.   AutoPIPE Nuclear Designer Learning Path The Bentley AutoPIPE V8i Nuclear Designer learning path is the recommended progression of professional development for Nuclear Designers who use Bentley's piping analysis software AutoPIPE and AutoPIPE Nuclear. Users accrue one Learning Unit for each hour of AutoPIPE training they complete. These Learning Units are Bentley Institute’s equivalent to Professional Development Hours (PDHs) and are added to a personal online transcript that demonstrates professional growth over time. The LIVE training and OnDemand eLearning options in the Learning Path are all based on V8i. Note:  When launching an OnDemand Lecture, API not set! Error pops up, click here to fix . General steps for reviewing a model: 1. Open the model in AutoPIPE 2. Press Tools Model Consistency Check. a report will appear, try and reduce the number of warnings to 0. The goal is to see the following message when using this command: --------------------------- Note --------------------------- N723-25: No error detected during consistency check --------------------------- OK --------------------------- However there are some modeling situations that will always display a warning. Again, try and keep these warnings to the bare minimum. 3. Use the power of the Input grids to review the model ---a. With AutoPIPE open, at any time select Tools Settings Grids suggest that "Show input grid tabs with no data" be disabled (unchecked). ---b. Open a model, and make the model input grids visible ---c. Select the left most tab (i.e. Press/Temp/PipeID) ---d. Just scan the data looking for inconsistencies ---e. Move to the next tab on the right, Pipe Properties, and perform the same function of scanning the data. If you had taken the training class you would already know that any column can be reordered by increasing/decreasing values by double clicking on the column header. Spot check the pipe id in the model by selecting a Pipe property row. This will highlight only this PipeID in the model Red, clearly showing where it is being used. ---f. Continue with each tab in the input grid that has data, just scan the information looking for similarities or inconsistencies. 4. Use the View Show command Under View Show there are a variety of commands to display model data in different ways. Recommend reviewing all, but at a minimum use: ___Show Operating Temperature ___Show Operating Pressure ___Show Pipe Properties ___Show Hydrodynamic Data ___Show Soil Properties ___Show Weight ___Show Concentrated Forces ___Show Imposed Displacements ___Show Thermal Anchor Movements 5. Confirm segments are connected together. AutoPIPE 9.4 and higher has a command to select connected groups of pipe segments (Select Connected segments ). This is a great tool to confirm if all segments are connected or if a model has a separate piping system / group when everything was thought to be connected. 6. Check to see if unintentional items are hidden from view. ___a. View Hide components ___b. Segment tab of the input grid, confirm all segments have "Show" checked ON (unless intentionally hiding a segment) ___c. May need to change from Solid model View to Wire Frame or Single line mode to see if an item was hidden. 7. Before performing an analysis, delete all unused items: Select Delete ___Delete Unused Pipe ID, ___Delete Unused Section ID ___Delete Unused Soil ID 8. At the end before closing the model ___a. compact the model, Tools Model compaction ___b. archive the model, File Model Management Save Archive 9. Static Analysis sets: Select Load Static Analysis Sets review each analysis set is correctly set up. 10. Dynamic Analysis: Select Load Dynamic Analysis review each tab to be sure each is correctly configured. 11. Analyze the model: Select Analyze Analyze All. 12. Review combinations: Select Tools Combinations check both code and non-code combinations. In addition, review Combination Option settings 13. Review the data: ___A. Create an output report with all the sub reports checked ON. Scan the output report looking for points that have failed code stress requirements (marked with a "**" at the end of the row). In addition, pay special attention to reviewing the following section in greater detail: ___i. Model listing ___ii. Stress Summary ___iii. Result summary ___iv. Analysis summary 14. Using the powerful features of the Results grids to interpret the data. Example: A. on the Code stress tab, shutting off combinations one by one to see how load cases affect the model. B. If a specific combination is causing a model to fail at a point, review each individual load case of the combination to see what is the major contributing factor (caution: the model may have concentrated forces associated with a specific load case causing the failure, review the entire model construction to understand how this may affect your results). Conclusion: If all the steps above are performed AutoPIPE will perform analyze the system performing the appropriate calculations and provide results based on the model settings, applied load, and piping arrangement. AutoPIPE's output reports includes but are not limited to the following: Pipe displacements Pipe forces and moments Beam displacements Beam forces and moments Anchor forces Support forces Note: See the following online help location to explains how to interpret these results. (eg, +/- Force, local pipe direction, etc..) Help Contents Contents Tab Reference Information Results Interpretations select document, (ex: Pipe Forces and Moments) No results in output report (blank) Please follow these instructions: 1. Start AutoPIPE. 2. Open a model 3. Analyze the model 4. Select Results output report UNCHECK (turn off) both: ____"Limit results to highlighted points" ____"Apply Filter Criteria (Result/Filter)" Check ON: all options but above 2 items. Press OK button. 5. Report should be displayed for review. If report is still blank, select Loads Static Analysis sets confirm 1 or more analysis sets are set to be analyzed with at least one load case in each set enabled (checked ON). In addition, under Tools Combinations code & non-code comb. tab, confirm load case combinations are being generated and have "Print" option enabled (checked ON). Repeat above steps 1-5.   Reference information: AutoPIPE Web site (Forum, Files, Wiki, Blog) http://communities.bentley.com/products/pipe_stress_analysis/default.aspx AutoPIPE On demand eSeminars for AutoPIPE V8i http://www.bentley.com/en-US/Promo/AutoPIPE+Caesar/eSeminars.htm http://connected.bentley.com/BrowseLive.aspx?keywordSearch=AutoPIPE New feature for AutoPIPE 9.4 and STAAD PRO/Foundations V8i SS3: ftp://ftp.bentley.com/pub/tools/fixes/autopipe/AutoPIPE_v9.4_SS3M.pptx.zip AutoPIPE FAQ on-line http://communities.bentley.com/products/pipe_stress_analysis/w/Pipe_Stress_Analysis__Wiki/autopipe-faq.aspx AutoPIPE Newsletter ftp://ftp.bentley.com/pub/tools/fixes/autopipe/Newsletter_CAE_April2010_4a.pdf View upcoming training schedule: http://www.bentley.com/en-us/training/products/resources/courses/ Create service tickets online at: http://appsnet.bentley.com/srmanager/addcall.aspx Contact Us by phone: http://selectservices.bentley.com/en-US/support/contact+us/phone/ (press Americas hyperlink to see phone tree menu)

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE VEssel Version(s): V8i Environment: N/A Area: License Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group   Comments, Questions, and Answers on Licensing Q1. How do I license AutoPIPE vessel? Answer : Please see the following file ( AutoPIPE Vessel - Install, Download, License ) for detailed procedure to license the program: Q2. The following is displayed when I start the program: --------------------------- Unregistered --------------------------- You will be unable to save. Please contact Bentley Systems, Inc. for registration --------------------------- OK   --------------------------- How do I fix it so it does not happen? Answer: open the program and select File License Settings... the following dialog screen will appear, be sure that Vessel or Vessel Enterprise radio button is selected. Otherwise check File License Management Tool (LMT) License Checkout Tab to be sure that the program is listed for the user, making any necessary adjustments to LMT as needed. While in LMT, perform BOTH of the following: Press keyboard button "F5" will refresh the current licenses available number on the "License Checkout tab" Press Keyboard button "F9" will send logs now, this command should be initiated every 30 days to keep your licenses updated with your SELECTserver. Q3. I am unable to save the file or run calculations (the icon appears greyed out). How to resolve this? Answer: It is likely that you may be running the software in demo mode. Go to File License Settings. Then once the dialogue box for license settings opens, make sure that you select either of the "Vessel" or "Vessel Enterprise" options.  Another common issue is that the actual license will restrict certain functionality depending on the license currently in use. See the AutoPIPE_Vessel_Tutorial.pdf copied to the program  folder during installation. Pages 12-14 provides some specific details about licensing; example, Vessel vs Enterprise License Matrix: Note: 1. 1 Free code with AutoPIPE Vessel Package ( PV design only ). 2. License Example: if company purchases AutoPIPE Vessel License with Vessel Code USA ASME VIII, the program will not analyze or save a model for  Tank design nor Shell and Tube Heat Exchange as those options are reserved for the AutoPIPE Vessel Enterprise License.  Q4. The following is displayed when I run the application:   Errors: 151 License: Design Code required isn't part of your license (ASME). 334 Tubesheet: Design code required ins't part of your License (ASME).   Answer: Please confirm the following: 1. The correct codes are available on your license server. File License Management Tool License Checkout tab. Is the correct license code shown in the listing? If not listed, contact Bentley Licensing team for correction. Note: AutoPIPE Vessel Enterprise covers all codes. If using only Vessel Enterprise license, Add-on codes may show as grey (see image below), this is OK. 2. In side AutoPIPE Vessel, select File License Settings   check On " Show license at start-up". Close the program and restart the program, when the AutoPIPE Vessel Licensing dialog appears press the OK button to start using the program. Q5. Will Microprotol be available on Enterprise Licensing Services (ELS)?: Answer : Bentley cannot create licenses for Microprotol as they licensed the software differently. Therefore, No, Microprotol will not be one of the software listed on Bentley's ELS accounts. However, Microprotol has been renamed as AutoPIPE Vessel; has the same look, feel, includes new features, and supports Bentley System's licensing protocol. AutoPIPE Vessel is apart of the ELS package of software .    Q6. Does AutoPIPE Vessel support trust licensing? Answer : YES, AutoPIPE Vessel supports trust licensing. This means that as long as a specific application license is shown on License Management Tool (LMT) the number of licenses is unlimited and will be subject to over usage charges at the end of the month.  Q7. Comparison of licensing between Microprotol and AutoPIPE Vessel:   Notes: CADGRI and CADVIEW are no longer available which have been replaced by new MicroStation DGN viewer. 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!

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Dynamic Analysis Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Dynamic Analysis FAQ: Modal Response Spectrum Harmonic Time History Force Spectrum   Note: see more information about AutoPIPE's Dynamic Data Storage files - (*.SPC, *.TIH, *.THL, *.FS, *.HMF) General Comments, Questions, and Answers Item #1: There is some confusion on how AutoPIPE closes the gap of a support in a dynamic analysis.  It isn’t clear how this makes sense that the program will apply a support at a point where the pipe may not actually be moving enough lose the gap and to reach the support in reality.  Any clarification on this? Answer : All AutoPIPE Dynamic analysis require that a modal analysis be performed. From AutoPIPE online help: AutoPIPE lumps the mass of the pipe, components and contents, etc. at the associated node point. This assumption yields a diagonal mass matrix with no mass coupling terms. There are three mass degrees of freedom per node. Rotational mass is ignored, except for points with eccentric weights, specified using the Insert/Xtra data/Weight command). At these points there may be up to three additional rotational masses and thus three additional mass degrees of freedom. It should be noted that for the eccentric weight, the coupling terms between the translation and rotational degrees of freedom are neglected. The structure is assumed to be linear and thus all gaps, friction and soil yielding is ignored. Item #2: Program should block dynamic analysis if static analysis set #1 not analyzed. Answer : This has been logged as a new enhancement under CAE-CR-10998. The internal setup of all the dynamic cases still rests with analysis set #1. If analysis set #1 is not analyzed with dynamic loads specified, your dynamic cases cannot be setup properly. Item #3 For V-Stop type support, like rod hanger, is AutoPIPE capable of deactivating the support in dynamic analysis in the analysis when it is active in static analysis? Answer : No, supports cannot be deactivated for a dynamic analysis. Only work around is to create a model with the support actually removed for dynamic analysis. Item #4 There are two types of global damping factor used in dynamic analysis of steel structures:1) % of critical damping and 2) % of structural damping. The default % value of critical damping used in Caesar II is 3%. Critical damping should be specified if the dynamic analysis is performed based on a combination of modal space (transformed from physical space to modal space through the natural frequencies and mode shapes) within the frequency range of interests. The structural damping coefficient of steel is typically 0.5%. This value is used when dynamic analysis is performed in physical space (the mathematical model represented by lumped mass and stiffness of piping members). We need to find out which type of dynamic analysis is being used. I think it is likely to be performed in modal space. Then I suggest to use 3% of critical damping - the default value used by Caesar II. If it is performed in physical space, then we should use 0.5% for structural damping. These values all stand for relatively small damping resistance from steel structures, which are known to have low damping resistance to dynamic loading. If there are special damping elements to help steel structure against dynamic movement, we should specify the damping coefficient for the specific element, not for the entire steel structure. Please note that we typically don't need to specify damping coefficient for snubbers, which should be considered as a rigid support during the quick pressure relief event. We believe Autopipe uses modal space.  Can you, or your Time History  Specialist, answer this question. Answer:   Yes, a single damping ratio is applied to all modes. It has nothing to do with pipes or beams. Item #5: Dynamic load factor for safety valve transient open force has been given by ASME 31.1 Appendix II. We call it DLF ASME curve. And response force equals to gas exhaust reaction force plus DLF. In CAESAR, after input force-time curve, which is same as our Time History profile. Caesar can generate DLF spectrum. These spectrum are different from DLF ASME curve.  Long duration and short duration generate different DLF curve. In AutoPIPE, it seems there is only ASME curve considered, and I can't find any result of those generated load factor with different period case in report. Could you give some instruction about this? Answer: This topic is covered in the official AutoPIPE Admin training class. Please contact your account manager for training options and schedule.  Item #6: AutoPIPE's Solutions to Piping Vibrations:   Types of Vibration AutoPIPE Solution 1. Mechanical:   Harmonic Displacement Analysis      A. Machinery Unbalanced Forces and Moments      B. Structure Borne Vibrations 2. Pulsation:  Harmonic Force Analysis      A. Flow induced vibration due to compressors and pumps 3. Pressure Surge / Hydraulic Hammer   Force Time History   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!  

Applies To Product(s): AutoPIPE, Version(s): 2004, XM, & V8i Environment: N/A Area: Analsyis Subarea: Original Author: Bentley Technical Support Group Problem: AutoPIPE performs the following types of Dynamic analysis: Response/Force Spectrum Time History Profile Time History Location Force Spectrum Harmonic Each of these dynamic analysis stores user data and settings in something refer to as STORAGE FILE. Each dynamic analysis has its out storage file formatting and file extension. See the following for a list or file extensions: Dynamic  Analysis Type File name ext. Response/Force Spectrum *.SPC Time History Profile *.TIH Time History Location *.THL Force Spectrum *.FS* Harmonic *.HMF For all AutoPIPE versions:  1. File name will continue to be limited to 8 characters (DOS format) not including the file extension. 2. All Storage Files will keep data using English Units . However, these files will convert to appropriate units based on the model input unit system on the GUI.  Example, General model options model input / Export units are set to SI: When viewing the Time History Profile with in the program, the Force is in Newtons: However when viewing the actual TIH file, the units are (LB force) : Therefore, if the STORAGE FILEs were to be manually created in a text editor the files must meet the format and value are in the correct units as documented in the online help. Please see the following AutoPIPE help section: Help Contents Search Tab enter "(enter text from below)" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information. Creating an ASCII Spectrum File  Creating an ASCII Time History (TIH) File Creating an ASCII Time History Load File (THL) Creating an ASCII Force Spectrum Load Case File Creating an ASCII Harmonic Load File In order to understand the English Units, please open the following file found in the AutoPIPE installation folder using any text editor (i.e. NotePAD, Ultra Edit, MS Word, etc..): Default location = C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\ ENGLISH.UNT Find the type of item in the right most column and scan left on the respective line to find the UNITS that value is reported in: Example: Acceleration units = in / s / s 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!