Features

Feature Overview

Fast graphical modeling
Smart load case editing
Transparent stress calculations
Built-in B31J-2017 and B31.1/B31.3-2020 ready
Multi-job and multi-version support
Synchronized data in integrated environment

Supported Codes

ASME B31.1 (2012 - 2020)
ASME B31.3 (2008 - 2020)
EN 13480-3 (2012)
ASME B31J (2017)

Enjoy an Integrated Work Environment

The input (layout geometry) and output (deflections, stresses, etc.) can be opened side by side in WinPIPE for analysis verification (see image below)
If a node in the output needs attention, (such as an overstressed node), one click on the stress report row jumps to the node or element in the model graphics
All data for a job is included in a single file, including the model geometry, load cases, and analysis results

ASME B31J Calculation Capability

The option to use ASME B31J to perform stress analysis calculations may be toggled on or off at the click of a button

Calculation Transparency

All results include a visual of the math and ASME formulas used to get there
This allows for an easy verification of results, and is convenient to review if numbers look off

Multi-Job Processing Capability

Two jobs or more can be opened simultaneously and displayed side by side for comparison and operations
- For example, you can copy a section of the model from job A and paste it into the model for job B

An example of WinPIPE's nuanced analysis capabilities

WinPIPE introduces a new scheme to comply with "hot" sustained load cases

In B31.3-2012, when using eq. (1b) in para. 302.3.5 (d) to get liberal “Allowable Displacement Stress Range, SA“, a typical piping stress program sets “SL” as sustained stress at the installation condition (with all supports active). This practice seems to fail to satisfy the intent of the code, because a “hot” sustained case might have a different support condition, as illustrated in B31-3 Appendix S, Example 2 (see a video on this in the "WinPIPE in Action" section of the website).

In B31.3-2014 and 2016, “SL” in paragraph 302.3.5 (d) is precisely defined as “the maximum value of sustained stress, considering all support conditions” (quoted from B31.3-2016). That essentially declares that the above practice for liberal expansion allowable is wrong.

In WinPIPE, we have designed a new scheme to comply with the code requirement:

All operating cases should be processed to get the support status at all operating conditions
“Hot” sustained cases might be required, depending on each operating case:
a. If there is no lift-off, a “hot” sustained case might not be required.
b. If there is lift-off, a “hot” sustained case needs to be set up using a new support status.
c. In some situations, engineers need to manually adjust restraints, creating a “hot” sustained case to check different scenarios.
All “cold” and “hot” sustained cases should be analyzed to meet the sustained stress requirement.
Different Max-SLs should be required using a combination of “cold” and “hot” sustained cases
Expansion/Fatigue analysis should select one of these Max-SLs, depending on its range

Most of the time, a hot sustained case could be easily set up by getting the support status directly from an operating case. However, there are situations that call for engineers’ experiences and judgement. For example, if a pipe model has a lot of +Y supports, although an operating condition doesn’t lift off the supports, it does alleviate the weight on the supports (therefore reducing the friction force in horizontal directions). In this scenario, a sustained horizontal force might cause a hot spot in the pipe system. Turning off horizontal restraints manually could help engineers to catch this problem.