Pearl Engineering works with a variety of industries performing services of all kinds, including pipe stress analysis.
The prime objective of piping stress analysis is to improve the piping design to prevent piping system failure by fatigue, creep, buckling or other modes of failure. It also allows the designer to avoid excessive loads on equipment and structures. Another reason to perform a pipe stress analysis is to increase the life of piping and equipment.
Inside Pearl Engineering, no one deals more with pipe stress analysis Jeff Ferkey and Gabriela Carrazzoni.
Why It Matters
Pipe Stress analysis is an analytical method to determine how a piping system behaves based on its material, pressure, temperature, fluid, support and occasional loads. It is a practical method of implementing knowledge to achieve acceptable reliability in compliance with governing Codes such as ASME B31.1, B31.3, B31.4, etc.
Particularly important and commonly necessary for all process piping systems, such as those found in the pulp and paper and food processing industries. Proper pipe stress analysis can help extend pipe and equipment longevity, help minimize maintenance costs and on initial installations can be a massive time saver for minimizing pipe layout revisions.
How It’s Done
“Pipe stress analysis is a detailed engineering calculation,” Jeff explained. “Every project is kicked off by gathering as much information as possible in order to produce a design that best fits our client’s goals.”
This analysis is performed with advanced computer software such as Autopipe or Caesar II. This tool allows to us recreate the piping geometry in a 3D model. Once the model is created (based on new piping design or an existing piping system) we procced to study the piping stresses that can cause failure in the piping system like hoop stress, axial stress, bending stress, torsional stress and fatigue stress. We use our extensive experience to provide solutions to optimize the piping system to comply with the allowable code stress of the piping code that applies for each case.
Particularly on existing systems, complete background information can be lacking due to system age and insufficient record keeping. Fortunately, Pearl Engineering has the capability to collect all the necessary information using accurate and innovative approaches such as the use of 3D laser scanning technology.
Have a complex situation? Jeff, Gabriela and the rest of the Pearl Engineering team can provide you with an innovative solution to your situation. Contact the team to learn more!
