About This Course
This expert-level course moves beyond standard static analysis to tackle the most demanding challenges in industrial piping integrity. Using CAESAR II, participants will engage in advanced dynamic simulation, non-linear modeling, and specialized code evaluations required for high-risk assets (e.g., nuclear, aerospace, high-pressure gas).
The curriculum is structured entirely around high-fidelity case studies, covering transient events like Water Hammer, non-linear systems like Jacketed Piping, and exotic materials like Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP). A unique focus is placed on leveraging stress analysis not just for compliance, but for Value Engineering and energy optimization, ensuring every design is technically sound and economically superior.
Learning Objectives
Master Dynamic Simulation: Execute advanced time history analysis for transient events (Water Hammer, Relief Valve Dynamics) and Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) for complex seismic loading.
Analyze Non-Linear Systems: Accurately model and analyze complex systems such as Jacketed Piping and systems connected to Vertical Vessels, managing crucial interface loads.
Evaluate Composite Materials: Apply advanced CAESAR II capabilities to model and perform static and seismic evaluation of Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) pipe systems.
Integrate Value Engineering: Utilize stress analysis results to perform Life Cycle Cost (LCC) assessments, optimizing support spans and routing to reduce material and long-term OPEX (pumping power).
Advanced Code Application: Apply specialized analysis techniques for complex code scenarios and conduct detailed harmonic analysis for vibration mitigation.
Material Includes
- 10 case studies, Advanced Dynamic Analysis White Papers, Complex Code Compliance Checklists, and Example Stress Reports.
Requirements
- A personal computer with a licensed installation of CAESAR II (required for hands-on case study work).
- Must have completed an Intermediate-level CAESAR II Course and possess a strong working knowledge of Static Stress Analysis (minimum 3-5 years professional experience).
Target Audience
- Senior Pipe Stress Engineers, Specialist Consultants, Dynamic Analysis Engineers, and Lead Project Engineers requiring mastery over non-routine, high-consequence piping systems.
Curriculum
30h
Module 1: Review of Advanced Stress Analysis Principles
Stress Classification, Non-Linearities, and the difference between Time History and Response Spectrum methods
Module 2: Jacketed Piping System Analysis (JACKET)
Modeling the inner and outer carriers, managing differential expansion and high rigidity constraints, and calculating sleeve reactions.
Module 3: Vertical Vessel Nozzle Load Integrity (VESSEL)
Detailed modeling of large vertical vessel nozzles, checking loads against WRC 107/297 or API standards, and applying support optimization.
Module 4: Harmonic Analysis and Vibration Control (TABLE)
Performing harmonic analysis to assess steady-state vibrations (e.g., machinery, pulsation), and determining the appropriate vibration mitigation strategy.
Module 5: Relief Valve Thrust Load Dynamics (RELIEF)
Modeling the time-dependent transient thrust load generated by safety relief valve discharge and managing the resulting high-speed impact on supports.
Module 6: Transient Water Hammer Simulation (HAMMER)
Executing time history analysis to simulate surge pressures, determining the maximum dynamic load, and ensuring support integrity against impulsive forces.
Module 7: Independent Support Seismic Excitation (CRYNOS)
Advanced seismic analysis where different parts of the structure experience non-uniform ground motion, requiring multi-point excitation methods.
Module 8: Dynamic Analysis (NUREG9)
This example analyzes the piping system shown below, subjected to a series of shock spectra. The example problem, taken from NUREG/CR -1677, BNL-NUREG-51267, VOL II, August 1985, is one of the NRC benchmark problems run to verify the dynamic capabilities of CAESAR II.
Module 9: Modeling and Analysis of FRP Pipe Systems (COOLH2O)
Applying specialized material properties for Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP), managing low-modulus materials, and performing static and seismic load evaluation.
Module 10: Stress Analysis for Value Engineering & Energy Management
Using analysis results to optimize support spans for minimum steel, and routing for minimum length to reduce pumping power (OPEX), achieving optimal LCC.
