CAESAR II

Applications Guide

Version 2014 (7.0)

April 2014

DICAS-PE-200101E
Copyright
Copyright © 1985-2014 Intergraph CAS, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Intergraph is part of Hexagon.
Including software, file formats, and audiovisual displays; may be used pursuant to applicable software license agreement; contains
confidential and proprietary information of Intergraph and/or third parties which is protected by copyright law, trade secret law, and
international treaty, and may not be provided or otherwise made available without proper authorization from Intergraph Corporation.
Contains RealDWG™ by Autodesk, Inc. Copyright © 1998-2013 Autodesk, Inc. All rights reserved.
U.S. Government Restricted Rights Legend
Use, duplication, or disclosure by the government is subject to restrictions as set forth below. For civilian agencies: This was
developed at private expense and is "restricted computer software" submitted with restricted rights in accordance with
subparagraphs (a) through (d) of the Commercial Computer Software - Restricted Rights clause at 52.227-19 of the Federal
Acquisition Regulations ("FAR") and its successors, and is unpublished and all rights are reserved under the copyright laws of the
United States. For units of the Department of Defense ("DoD"): This is "commercial computer software" as defined at DFARS
252.227-7014 and the rights of the Government are as specified at DFARS 227.7202-3.
Unpublished - rights reserved under the copyright laws of the United States.
Intergraph Corporation
300 Intergraph Way
Huntsville, AL 35813
Documentation
Documentation shall mean, whether in electronic or printed form, User's Guides, Installation Guides, Reference Guides,
Administrator's Guides, Customization Guides, Programmer's Guides, Configuration Guides and Help Guides delivered with a
particular software product.
Other Documentation
Other Documentation shall mean, whether in electronic or printed form and delivered with software or on Intergraph Smart Support,
SharePoint, or box.net, any documentation related to work processes, workflows, and best practices that is provided by Intergraph
as guidance for using a software product.
Terms of Use
a. Use of a software product and Documentation is subject to the End User License Agreement ("EULA") delivered with the
software product unless the Licensee has a valid signed license for this software product with Intergraph Corporation. If the
Licensee has a valid signed license for this software product with Intergraph Corporation, the valid signed license shall take
precedence and govern the use of this software product and Documentation. Subject to the terms contained within the
applicable license agreement, Intergraph Corporation gives Licensee permission to print a reasonable number of copies of the
Documentation as defined in the applicable license agreement and delivered with the software product for Licensee's internal,
non-commercial use. The Documentation may not be printed for resale or redistribution.
b. For use of Documentation or Other Documentation where end user does not receive a EULA or does not have a valid license
agreement with Intergraph, Intergraph grants the Licensee a non-exclusive license to use the Documentation or Other
Documentation for Licensee’s internal non-commercial use. Intergraph Corporation gives Licensee permission to print a
reasonable number of copies of Other Documentation for Licensee’s internal, non-commercial. The Other Documentation may
not be printed for resale or redistribution. This license contained in this subsection b) may be terminated at any time and for any
reason by Intergraph Corporation by giving written notice to Licensee.
Disclaimer of Warranties
Except for any express warranties as may be stated in the EULA or separate license or separate terms and conditions, Intergraph
Corporation disclaims any and all express or implied warranties including, but not limited to the implied warranties of merchantability
and fitness for a particular purpose and nothing stated in, or implied by, this document or its contents shall be considered or deemed
a modification or amendment of such disclaimer. Intergraph believes the information in this publication is accurate as of its
publication date.
The information and the software discussed in this document are subject to change without notice and are subject to applicable
technical product descriptions. Intergraph Corporation is not responsible for any error that may appear in this document.
The software, Documentation and Other Documentation discussed in this document are furnished under a license and may be used
or copied only in accordance with the terms of this license. THE USER OF THE SOFTWARE IS EXPECTED TO MAKE THE FINAL
EVALUATION AS TO THE USEFULNESS OF THE SOFTWARE IN HIS OWN ENVIRONMENT.
Intergraph is not responsible for the accuracy of delivered data including, but not limited to, catalog, reference and symbol data.
Users should verify for themselves that the data is accurate and suitable for their project work.
Limitation of Damages
IN NO EVENT WILL INTERGRAPH CORPORATION BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL INCIDENTAL,
SPECIAL, OR PUNITIVE DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, LOSS OF USE OR PRODUCTION, LOSS OF
REVENUE OR PROFIT, LOSS OF DATA, OR CLAIMS OF THIRD PARTIES, EVEN IF INTERGRAPH CORPORATION HAS BEEN
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

2 CAESAR II Applications Guide

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES SHALL INTERGRAPH CORPORATION’S LIABILITY EXCEED THE AMOUNT THAT
INTERGRAPH CORPORATION HAS BEEN PAID BY LICENSEE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT AT THE TIME THE CLAIM IS
MADE. EXCEPT WHERE PROHIBITED BY APPLICABLE LAW, NO CLAIM, REGARDLESS OF FORM, ARISING OUT OF OR IN
CONNECTION WITH THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THIS DOCUMENT MAY BE BROUGHT BY LICENSEE MORE THAN TWO (2)
YEARS AFTER THE EVENT GIVING RISE TO THE CAUSE OF ACTION HAS OCCURRED.
IF UNDER THE LAW RULED APPLICABLE ANY PART OF THIS SECTION IS INVALID, THEN INTERGRAPH LIMITS ITS
LIABILITY TO THE MAXIMUM EXTENT ALLOWED BY SAID LAW.
Export Controls
Intergraph Corporation’s software products and any third-party Software Products obtained from Intergraph Corporation, its
subsidiaries, or distributors (including any Documentation, Other Documentation or technical data related to these products) are
subject to the export control laws and regulations of the United States. Diversion contrary to U.S. law is prohibited. These Software
Products, and the direct product thereof, must not be exported or re-exported, directly or indirectly (including via remote access)
under the following circumstances:
a. To Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, or Syria, or any national of these countries.
b. To any person or entity listed on any U.S. government denial list, including but not limited to, the U.S. Department of Commerce
Denied Persons, Entities, and Unverified Lists, http://www.bis.doc.gov/complianceandenforcement/liststocheck.htm, the U.S.
Department of Treasury Specially Designated Nationals List, http://www.treas.gov/offices/enforcement/ofac/, and the U.S.
Department of State Debarred List, http://www.pmddtc.state.gov/compliance/debar.html.
c. To any entity when Licensee knows, or has reason to know, the end use of the Software Product is related to the design,
development, production, or use of missiles, chemical, biological, or nuclear weapons, or other un-safeguarded or sensitive
nuclear uses.
d. To any entity when Licensee knows, or has reason to know, that an illegal reshipment will take place.
Any questions regarding export or re-export of these Software Products should be addressed to Intergraph Corporation’s Export
Compliance Department, Huntsville, Alabama 35894, USA.
Trademarks
Intergraph, the Intergraph logo, Intergraph Smart, PDS, SmartPlant, SmartMarine, FrameWorks, I-Sketch, IntelliShip, ISOGEN,
SmartSketch, SPOOLGEN, SupportManager, and SupportModeler are trademarks or registered trademarks of Intergraph
Corporation or its subsidiaries in the United States and other countries. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks of
Microsoft Corporation. MicroStation is a registered trademark of Bentley Systems, Inc. Other brands and product names are
trademarks of their respective owners.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 3

4 CAESAR II Applications Guide
Contents
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................... 9

Bends .......................................................................................................................................................... 11
Bend Definition ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Single and Double Flanged Bends or Stiffened Bends......................................................................... 12
180º Return Fitting-to-Fitting 90º Bends ............................................................................................... 14
Mitered Bends ....................................................................................................................................... 15
Closely-Spaced Mitered Bend ........................................................................................................ 15
Widely-Spaced Mitered Bend ......................................................................................................... 16
Elbows - Different Wall Thickness ........................................................................................................ 19
Bend Flexibility Factor ........................................................................................................................... 20

Restraints ................................................................................................................................................... 21
Anchors ................................................................................................................................................. 22
Anchors with Displacements .......................................................................................................... 23
Flexible Anchors ............................................................................................................................. 24
Flexible Anchors with Predefined Displacements .......................................................................... 25
Flexible Nozzle - WRC Bulletin 297 ...................................................................................................... 26
Flexible Nozzle with Predefined Displacements ............................................................................ 28
Flexible Nozzle with Complete Vessel Model................................................................................. 29
Double-Acting Restraints ...................................................................................................................... 32
Single-Directional Restraints ................................................................................................................. 33
Guides ................................................................................................................................................... 34
Limit Stops ............................................................................................................................................ 36
Windows ................................................................................................................................................ 38
Rotational Directional Restraints with Gaps ......................................................................................... 39
Single-Directional Restraint with Predefined Displacement ................................................................. 40
Single-Directional Restraint and Guide with Gap and Predefined Displacement ................................. 41
Restraint Settlement ............................................................................................................................. 42
Skewed Double-Acting Restraint with Gap ........................................................................................... 43
Skewed Single-Directional Restraint..................................................................................................... 44
Restraint between Two Pipes Using CNodes ....................................................................................... 45
Restraint between Vessel and Pipe Models ......................................................................................... 46
Restraints on a Bend at 45º .................................................................................................................. 46
Restraints on a Bend at 30º and 60º ..................................................................................................... 48
Vertical Dummy Leg on Bends ............................................................................................................. 49
Vertical Leg Attachment Angle .............................................................................................................. 52
Horizontal Dummy Leg on Bends ......................................................................................................... 52
Large Rotation Rods - Basic Model ...................................................................................................... 53
Large Rotation Rods - Chain Supports ................................................................................................. 55
Bi-Linear Restraints .............................................................................................................................. 56
Static Snubbers ..................................................................................................................................... 58
Plastic Hinges ....................................................................................................................................... 59
Sway Brace Assemblies ....................................................................................................................... 60

CAESAR II Applications Guide 5

Contents

Hangers ...................................................................................................................................................... 63
General Information .............................................................................................................................. 64
Simple Hanger Design .......................................................................................................................... 65
Single Can Design ................................................................................................................................ 66
Constant Effort Support Design ............................................................................................................ 67
Constant Effort Supports - No Design .................................................................................................. 68
Existing Springs - No Design ................................................................................................................ 69
Multiple Can Design .............................................................................................................................. 70
Old Spring Redesign ............................................................................................................................. 71
Pipe and Hanger Supported From Vessel ............................................................................................ 72
Hanger Design with Support Thermal Movement ................................................................................. 73
Hanger Between Two Pipes ................................................................................................................. 73
Hanger Design with Anchors in the Vicinity .......................................................................................... 74
Hanger Design with User-Specified Operating Load ............................................................................ 76
Simple Bottomed Out Spring ................................................................................................................ 77
Lift Off Spring Can ................................................................................................................................ 78
Modeling Spring Cans with Friction ...................................................................................................... 79

Expansion Joints ....................................................................................................................................... 81

Universal Expansion Joints - Simple Model .......................................................................................... 81
Tied Bellows Expansion Joint - Simple Model ...................................................................................... 87
Universal Joint with Lateral Controls Stops - Comprehensive Tie Rod Model ..................................... 88
Hinged Joint .......................................................................................................................................... 90
Slotted Hinge Joint - Simple Model ....................................................................................................... 92
Slotted Hinge Joint - Comprehensive Model ........................................................................................ 93
Tied Bellows - Simple vs. Complex Model ............................................................................................ 94
Slip Joint ................................................................................................................................................ 95
Gimbal Joints ........................................................................................................................................ 96
Tied Bellows Expansion Joint - Complex Model ................................................................................... 97
Dual Gimbal .......................................................................................................................................... 99
Simple Bellows with Pressure Thrust.................................................................................................. 101
Pressure-Balanced Tees and Elbows ................................................................................................. 104
Universal Joint - Comprehensive Tie Rod .......................................................................................... 105

Miscellaneous Models............................................................................................................................. 107

Reducers ............................................................................................................................................. 107
Ball Joints ............................................................................................................................................ 108
Jacketed Pipe...................................................................................................................................... 110
Cold Spring ......................................................................................................................................... 112
Connecting Equipment ........................................................................................................................ 112
Vertical Vessels ............................................................................................................................ 112
Horizontal Vessels ........................................................................................................................ 118

Tutorial A .................................................................................................................................................. 123

System Overview ................................................................................................................................ 123
Preparing the Drawing .................................................................................................................. 124
Generating CAESAR II Input ........................................................................................................ 126
Input Review ................................................................................................................................. 140
Ending the Input Session ............................................................................................................. 143
Performing the Static Analysis ..................................................................................................... 143

6 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Contents

Reviewing Static Results .................................................................................................................... 146

Static Analysis Output Listing ....................................................................................................... 151
Conclusions ......................................................................................................................................... 159

Examples .................................................................................................................................................. 161

Harmonic Analysis (TABLE) ............................................................................................................... 161
Harmonic Analysis of this System ................................................................................................ 164
Relief Valve Loads (RELIEF) .............................................................................................................. 166
Relief Valve Example Problem Setup .......................................................................................... 167
Relief Valve Loading Output ......................................................................................................... 171
Dynamic Analysis of Water Hammer Loads (HAMMER) .................................................................... 175
Notes for Analyzing Water Hammer Loads .................................................................................. 183
Water Hammer Loading Output ................................................................................................... 185
Solution Summary ........................................................................................................................ 187
Dynamic Analysis of Independent Support Earthquake Excitation (CRYNOS) .................................. 188
Results .......................................................................................................................................... 200
Structural Analysis (FRAME) .............................................................................................................. 201
Dynamic Analysis (NUREG9) ............................................................................................................. 208
NRC Example NUREG 9 .............................................................................................................. 209
NRC Example Problem 2A ........................................................................................................... 209
NRC Example Problem 2B ........................................................................................................... 212
NRC Example Problem 2C ........................................................................................................... 213
Omega Loop Modelling (OMEGA) ...................................................................................................... 214
Jacketed Piping (JACKET) ................................................................................................................. 219
Modeling Plan ............................................................................................................................... 220
Node Layout ................................................................................................................................. 221
Core Piping Input .......................................................................................................................... 222
Jacket Input (1st Half)................................................................................................................... 223
Jacket Input (2nd Half) ................................................................................................................. 226
WRC 107............................................................................................................................................. 228
Convert Forces/Moments from CAESAR II Global Coordinates to WRC 107 Local
Axes .............................................................................................................................................. 229
NEMA SM23 ....................................................................................................................................... 237
Nozzle Results for PT69M ............................................................................................................ 240
Nozzle Load Summation Report .................................................................................................. 241

Tutorial B .................................................................................................................................................. 243

Evaluating Pump Discharge Loads ..................................................................................................... 243
Creating Accurate Models ................................................................................................................... 254
WRC 297 Calculations Completed at the End of Error Checking ....................................................... 257
Checking Nozzle Loads ...................................................................................................................... 263
System Redesign ................................................................................................................................ 265
Conclusion .......................................................................................................................................... 275

Index ......................................................................................................................................................... 277

CAESAR II Applications Guide 7

Contents

8 CAESAR II Applications Guide

SECTION 1

Overview
The CAESAR II Application Guide shows the application of CAESAR II. Refer to this manual for
examples of specific piping components, as well as examples of complete systems.
The following sections illustrate the techniques and methods used to model individual piping
components, restraints, and attached equipment.
 Bends (on page 11)
 Restraints (on page 21)
 Expansion Joints (on page 81)
 Miscellaneous Models (on page 107)
Refer to these sections when you are modeling seldom-used components or unusual
geometries. The component modeling examples are especially useful for modeling techniques
and gaining a general understanding of the software.
Examples (on page 161) contains examples that illustrate the application of CAESAR II to
various piping problems. These examples show modeling, problem solving, and software
operation. This section provides engineering guidelines and indicates where assumptions must
be made in attempting to solve real-world problems.
Tutorial A (on page 123) and Tutorial B (on page 243) contain tutorials that walk through the
modeling and analysis of a complete system. Work through these sections if you have not
previously attempted a particular analysis.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 9

Overview

10 CAESAR II Applications Guide

SECTION 2

Bends
This section provides guidelines and recommended best practices for the modeling various
bend geometries in CAESAR II.
For detailed information about using the software to define bend geometry, see
"Component Information" in the CAESAR II User's Guide.

Bend Definition
A bend is defined by the element entering the bend and the element leaving the bend. The bend
curvature is always physically at the To end of the element entering the bend.
The input for the element leaving the bend must follow the element entering the bend. The bend
angle is defined by these two elements. The default bend radius is 1-1/2 times the pipe nominal
diameter (long radius), but it can be changed to any other value. When you specify a bend, two
additional intermediate nodes are automatically generated--one at the 0º location and one at the
bend midpoint (M).
For stress and displacement output, the To node of the element entering the bend is located
geometrically at the far-point on the bend. The far-point is at the weld line of the bend, adjacent
to the straight element leaving the bend. The 0º point on the bend is at the weld line of the
bend, adjacent to the straight element entering the bend.
The From point on the element is located at the 0º point of the bend (and no 0º node point is
generated) if the total length of the element as specified by DX, DY, and DZ is equal to:
R tan (b / 2)
Where b is the bend angle, and R is the bend radius of curvature to the bend centerline.
Nodes defined by the Angle and Node properties are placed at the given angle on the bend
curvature. The angle starts with zero degrees at the near-point on the bend and goes to b
degrees at the far-point of the bend. Angles are always entered in degrees. Entering the letter M
as the angle designates the bend midpoint.
Nodes on the bend curvature cannot be placed closer together than the angle distance specified
by Minimum Angle to Adjacent Bend in the Geometry category of the Tools >
Configure/Setup command. This includes the spacing between the nodes on the bend
curvature and the near- and far-points of the bend.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 11

Bends

The minimum and maximum total bend angle is specified by the Minimum Allowable Bend
Angle and Maximum Allowable Bend Angle properties, also in the Geometry category of the
Tools > Configure Setup command.

Single and Double Flanged Bends or Stiffened Bends

Single- and double-flanged bend specifications affect only the stress intensification and flexibility
of the bend. There is no automatic rigid element (or change in weight) generated for the end of
the bend. Single- and double-flanged bends are indicated by typing a 1 or 2 to define the Type
in the bend auxiliary input. Rigid elements defined before or after the bend do not alter the
stiffness of the bend or its stress intensification factors.
When specifying single-flanged bends, it does not matter on which end of the bend you place
the flange.
If you want to include the weight of the rigid flange at the bend ends, then put rigid elements
(whose total length is the length of a flange pair) at the bend ends where the flange pairs exist.
As a guideline, British Standard 806 recommends stiffening the bends whenever a component
that significantly stiffens the pipe cross section is found within two diameters of either bend end.

12 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Bends

The flanges in the figures below are modeled only to the extent that they affect the stiff\-ness
and the stress intensification for the bends.
Flanges and Bends:

CAESAR II Applications Guide 13

Bends

180º Return Fitting-to-Fitting 90º Bends

Separate two 90º bends by twice the bend radius. The far-point of the first bend is the same as
the near-point of the second, or following, bend. Intergraph CAS recommends that you place
nodes at the midpoint of each bend that comprise the 180º return.
180º Bend:

DX = 2R

14 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Bends

Mitered Bends
Evenly spaced mitered bends, whether closely or widely spaced, are defined by two parameters:
 The number of cuts (changes in direction)
 The equivalent radius or miter spacing
For closely spaced miters, the equivalent radius is equal to the code defined as R1 for B31.3
and R for B31.1. The equation for the equivalent radius to the spacing for evenly spaced miters
is:
Req = S / [ 2 tan() ]
Where:
Req = equivalent miter bend radius
S = spacing of the miter cuts along the centerline
 = code-defined half-angle between adjacent miter cuts:  / 2N
Where:
 = total bend angle
N = number of cuts
When using B31.1, an additional parameter, B (length of miter segment at crotch), is examined
for closely spaced miters. The following equation is used to compute B for evenly spaced miters:
B = S [ 1 - ro / Req ]
Where:
ro = outside radius of pipe cross-section

Closely-Spaced Mitered Bend

Miter bends are closely spaced if:
S < r [1 + tan ()]
Where:
S = miter spacing
r = average pipe cross section radius: (r i+ro)/2
q = one-half the angle between adjacent miter cuts
B31.1 has additional requirements:
B > 6 tn
 22.5 deg.
B = length of the miter segment at the crotch.
tn = nominal wall thickness of pipe.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 15

Bends

Closely spaced miters, regardless of the number of miter cuts, can be defined as a single bend.
CAESAR II always calculates the spacing from the bend radius. If you have the miter spacing
but not the bend radius, the radius must be calculated as shown in the following example. The
mitered bend shown below has four cuts through 90º and a spacing of 15.913 inches.
Req = S / [ 2 tan ()]
 = / 2N
= 90 / [2(4)]
= 11.25º
Req = 15.913 / [2 tan (11.25º)]
= 40

Closely Spaced Miter Bend:

Widely-Spaced Mitered Bend

Mitered bends are widely spaced if:
S³ r * [1 + tan ()]
Where:
S = spacing between miter points along the miter segment
centerline
r = average cross section radius (ri+r)/2
 = one-half angle between adjacent miter cuts

16 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Bends

B31.1 has the following additional requirement:

22.5º
In CAESAR II, you must enter widely spaced miters as individual, single-cut miters, each having
a bend radius equal to:
R = r [1 + cot ()] / 2
Where:
R = reduced bend radius for widely spaced miters.
During error checking, CAESAR II produces a warning message for each mitered component
that does not pass the test for a closely spaced miter.
The following components should be re-entered as a group of single cut joints.
Widely Spaced Miter:
Pipe O.D. = 10.375 in. Assuming closely spaced:
Pipe Thickness = 0.500
in.
Bend Angle = 90º
Cuts = 2
Req = 45 inches

Calculate the coordinates to get from the tangent intersection point of the single cut miter bend
at node 10 to the single cut miter bend at node 15.
The straight pipe section coming into and going out of the bend must be  Reqsin ().

CAESAR II Applications Guide 17

Bends

Enter widely spaced miters as individual straight pipe elements, with bends specified,
having one miter cut.

Figure 2: Between the First and Second Cuts

Figure 1: Coming Up to the First Cut

Figure 3: Coming Out of the Second Cut

18 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Bends

Elbows - Different Wall Thickness

When you define the fitting thickness for the bend, CAESAR II changes the thickness only of the
curved portion of the bend element. The thickness of any preceding or following straight pipe is
unaffected.
The specified fitting thickness applies only for the current elbow and is not persisted to any
subsequent elbows in the job.
Stresses at the elbow are calculated based on the section modulus of the matching pipe as
specified in the B31 codes. However, stress intensification factors and flexibility factors for the
bend are based on the elbow wall thickness.
Thick Elbow:

The elbow at node 10 has a thickness larger than the matching pipe
wall. The matching pipe has a thickness of 0.5.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 19

Bends

Bend Flexibility Factor

Usually, bend flexibility factors are calculated according to code requirements. However, you
can override the code calculation by typing a value for the K-factor. For example, if you type
1.500, then the bend is 1.5 times as flexible as a straight pipe of the same length.

20 CAESAR II Applications Guide

SECTION 3

Restraints
This chapter provides guidelines and recommended best practices for modeling various types of
restraints in CAESAR II.

In This Section
Anchors .......................................................................................... 22
Flexible Nozzle - WRC Bulletin 297 ............................................... 26
Double-Acting Restraints ............................................................... 32
Single-Directional Restraints ......................................................... 33
Guides ............................................................................................ 34
Limit Stops ..................................................................................... 36
Windows ........................................................................................ 37
Rotational Directional Restraints with Gaps .................................. 38
Single-Directional Restraint with Predefined Displacement .......... 40
Single-Directional Restraint and Guide with Gap and
Predefined Displacement............................................................... 40
Restraint Settlement ...................................................................... 41
Skewed Double-Acting Restraint with Gap .................................... 42
Skewed Single-Directional Restraint ............................................. 44
Restraint between Two Pipes Using CNodes ................................ 45
Restraint between Vessel and Pipe Models .................................. 45
Restraints on a Bend at 45º ........................................................... 46
Restraints on a Bend at 30º and 60º ............................................. 47
Vertical Dummy Leg on Bends ...................................................... 48
Vertical Leg Attachment Angle ...................................................... 52
Horizontal Dummy Leg on Bends .................................................. 52
Large Rotation Rods - Basic Model ............................................... 53
Large Rotation Rods - Chain Supports .......................................... 54
Bi-Linear Restraints ....................................................................... 56
Static Snubbers ............................................................................. 58
Plastic Hinges ................................................................................ 58
Sway Brace Assemblies ................................................................ 59

CAESAR II Applications Guide 21

Restraints

Anchors
Use the following guidelines when modeling anchors in CAESAR II:
 The anchor default stiffness for translational and rotational degrees-of-freedom is defined in
the CAESAR II configuration file.
 You can use connecting nodes with anchors to rigidly fix one point in the piping system to
any other point in the piping system.
 The value that you define for the Stif property applies to all six anchor degrees-of-freedom.
 Do not specify displacements at an anchor. If you know the displacements of a particular
point, specify them without any additional restraints or anchors.
 Accurate definition of piping boundary conditions (restraints) is considered the single most
important part of system modeling. It requires experience with piping fabrication and erection
and with CAESAR II.
The example below shows a nozzle connection modeled as an anchor, along with the
corresponding rigid anchor input on the Restraints Auxiliary Data tab in the Classic Piping
Input dialog box.

Rigid Anchor at Node 5

22 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Anchors with Displacements

Follow these guidelines to model anchors with displacements in CAESAR II:
 Enter only displacements for the node.
 Do not specify restraints or anchors at the node to be displaced.
 For anchors with displacements, ensure that all six degrees-of-freedom at the node are
defined.
Degrees-of-freedom not defined (left blank) in any displacement vector are presumed to
be free in all load cases.
You can define up to nine different displacement vectors.
Non-zero displacements are usually part of the thermal expansion effects. They should be
added into any analysis case containing the corresponding thermal, such as W+P1+T1+D1. We
recommend load cases that do this automatically.
The translations and/or rotations for any nodal degree of freedom that has displacements
specified in any displacement vector are zero for the following load cases:
 Those that do not contain a vector as part of the load case identification
 Those where the specified non-zero value for load cases containing the vector is part of the
load case identification
For example, defined displacements are used if the load case is W+P1+T1+D1 (OPE), and
those displacements are held to zero if the load case is W+P1 (SUS).
After a degree-of-freedom is fixed in one displacement vector, it cannot be free in another
displacement vector at the same node.
The default value for a blank displacement box is zero.
The figure below shows an anchor with predefined displacements.

Anchors with Predefined Displacements

CAESAR II Applications Guide 23

Restraints

Flexible Anchors
Use the following guidelines to model flexible anchors in CAESAR II:
 Use six flexible restraints.
 Put four restraints on one element and the last two restraints on the next element in the
restraints auxiliary data area (Classic Piping Input dialog box).
 Refer to the following flexible nozzle examples to improve modeling methods for
intersections of this type.

Flexible Restraints for Nozzle and Shell

For more information about defining restraints, see "Restraints" in the CAESAR II User's
Guide.

24 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Flexible Anchors with Predefined Displacements

To model flexible anchors with predefined displacements, use the following guidelines:
 Use six flexible restraints.
 Put four restraints on one element and the last two restraints on the next element.
 Define a unique connecting node (CNode) at each of the six restraints. All six restraints
should have the same connecting node.
 Specify the displacements at the connecting node.

Flexible Anchors with Predefined Displacements

The CNode in the example below is 1005. CNode numbers must be unique.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 25

Restraints

Flexible Nozzle - WRC Bulletin 297

When modeling flexible nozzles, adhere to the following requirements:
 Frame only one pipe element into the nozzle node.
 Do not place restraints at the nozzle node.
 Do not place anchors at the nozzle node.
 Do not specify displacements for the nozzle node. Refer to the displacements at flexible
nozzles below.
CAESAR II automatically performs the following functions:
 Calculates nozzle flexibilities for user-defined nozzle/vessel data.
 Calculates and inserts restraints to simulate nozzle flexibilities.
 Calculates flexibilities for the axial translations, circumferential, and longitudinal bending.
You must complete the error check process to view these calculated values.
CAESAR II uses the following criteria for its calculations:
 Shear and torsional stiffnesses are assumed rigid.
 Nozzle configurations outside of the WRC 297 curve limits are considered rigid. It is not
unusual for one stiffness value to be rigid because of curve limits and for the others to be
suitably flexible.
 You can use Vessel Temperature and Material in the WRC 297 auxiliary data area to
optionally compute a reduced modulus of elasticity for the local stiffness calculations.

Schematic of Nozzle and Vessel to be Modeled Using WRC 297

26 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

WRC 297 Input Example

Example WRC 297 output is shown below.

WRC 297 Nozzle Calculations

CAESAR II Applications Guide 27

Restraints

Flexible Nozzle with Predefined Displacements

To model flexible nozzles with predefined displacements (WRC-297), use the following
guidelines:
 Define a unique vessel node in the nozzle auxiliary data area (Classic Piping Input dialog
box).
 Apply the predefined displacements to the vessel node.
These displacements can be specified on any element. The displacement node does not
need to be on an element that defines it.
The CAESAR II-generated nozzle/vessel flexibilities are inserted in restraints that act between
the nozzle node and the vessel node.

Flexible Nozzle With Predefined Displacements on Vessel Node

28 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Flexible Nozzle with Complete Vessel Model

To model a flexible nozzle that includes a complete vessel, use the following guidelines:
 Define a unique vessel node on the nozzle auxiliary data area.
The nozzle auxiliary data area displays when you select Nozzle Flex on the Classic
Piping Input dialog box. For more information, see "Nozzle Flex" in the CAESAR II User's
Guide.
 Run a rigid element between the vessel node defined in the nozzle auxiliary data area and
the centerline of the vessel. The outside diameter of the rigid element should be
approximately equal to the outside diameter of the vessel. The weight of the rigid element
should be zero.
 Model the actual vessel length using pipe elements. Model the vessel diameter and wall
thicknesses as accurately as possible
 Use an anchor to model the vessel anchorage point.
The CAESAR II-generated nozzle/vessel flexibilities are inserted between the nozzle node and
the vessel node.
The graphics below show a full WRC 297 model schematic.

Full WRC 297 Model Schematic

CAESAR II Applications Guide 29

Restraints

Full WRC 297 and Vessel Model

Figure 4: Pipe Entering Nozzle Figure 5: WRC 297 Auxiliary Input

Figure 7: Rigid Weight is Blank (0,0)

Figure 6: Vessel Radius Element

30 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Figure 8: Vessel Element

Figure 9: Vessel Skirt Element At Ambient Temperature

Nozzle Calculations
An example of the WRC 297 results found at the end of error checking is shown below.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 31

Restraints

Double-Acting Restraints
Double-acting restraints are those that act in both directions along the line of action. The most
commonly used restraints are double-acting.
A CNode is the connecting node. If you do not enter a value in the CNode box, the restrained
node is connected using the restraint stiffness to a rigid point in space. If you do enter a value
for CNode, the restrained node is connected using the restraint stiffness to the connecting node.
If you specify a gap, it is the amount of free movement along the positive or negative line of
action of the restraint before resistance to movement occurs. A gap is a length, so it is always
positive.

Transitional Restraints
Restraint acts along both the positive and negative directions. Friction at double-acting restraints
acts orthogonally to the line of action of the restraint.

Double-Acting Restraint at Node 55 in the Z-Direction

Rotational Restraints
The behavior of rotation restraints is similar to double-acting translational restraints. Friction is
not defined for rotational restraints.

Hinged-End rod Free to Rotate About the Z-Axis

Restrain all except Rz

32 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Four restraints on one element

containing node 105 and
remaining restraint on the next
element.

Single-Directional Restraints
The following are some important facts pertaining to single-directional restraints:
 The plus or minus sign (+/-) on the single-directional restraint gives the direction of free
movement. For example, a positive Y restraint (+Y) can move freely in the positive
Y-direction and is restrained against movement in the negative Y-direction.
 Single-directional restraints can define restraint along positive, negative, or skewed axes.
 Any number of single-directional restraints can act along the same line of action. If more
than one single-directional restraint acts along the same line of action, then there are usually
two in opposite directions and are used to model unequal leg gaps.
 A CNode is the connecting node. If you do not define a value for CNode, then the
restrained node is connected using the restraint stiffness to a rigid point in space. If you
enter a value for CNode, then the restrained node is connected using the restraint stiffness
to the connecting node.
 You can specify friction and gaps with single-directional restraints. The gap is in the
opposite direction of the free travel.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 33

Restraints

Rigid Single - Directional Restraint in Y at Node 20

The plus or minus sign (+/-) on the
restraint gives the direction of free
movement. Because the stiffness is
omitted, the restraint is rigid.

Guides
Use the following guidelines when modeling guides in CAESAR II:
 Guides are double-acting restraints with or without a specified gap.
 You can use connecting nodes (CNodes) with guides.
 You can define guides using the global system coordinates or using the applicable options
in the restraints auxiliary data area.
 The restraints auxiliary data area displays when you select Restraints on the Classic
Piping Input dialog box.
A guided pipe in the horizontal or skewed direction has a single restraint, acting in the horizontal
plane, orthogonal to the axis of the pipe.
A guided vertical pipe has X- and Z-direction supports.
CAESAR II computes direction cosines for guides. The software ignores user-defined guide
direction cosines.

Guide on Horizontal Pipe with Single Directional Restraint

34 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Node 25 is guided in Z with a gap of 2.5

inches. A single-directional restraint in
the Y-direction also exists. Both
restraints are rigid.
In this example, replacing the
guide restraint with a Z restraint is
equivalent.

Guided Pipe in Both Horizontal and Vertical Directions

CAESAR II Applications Guide 35

Restraints

Limit Stops
Use the following guidelines when working with limit stops in CAESAR II:
 Limit stops are single- or double-acting restraints whose line of action is along the axis of the
pipe.
 The plus or minus sign (+/-) on the single-directional restraint gives the direction of unlimited
free movement.
 A limit stop and a single-directional restraint can have gaps. The gap is the distance of
permitted free movement along the restraining line of action.
 A gap is a length and is always positive. The plus or minus sign (+/-) on the restraint
determines the orientation of the gap along the line of action. The gap direction is opposite
to the direction of free travel.
 You can use connecting nodes (CNode) with any limit stop model.
 A limit stop can be defined using the restraint type LIM.
 Limit stops provide double- or single-acting support parallel to the pipe axis. Limit stops can
have gaps and friction. The positive line of action of the limit stop is defined by the From and
To node on the element.
 CAESAR II computes direction cosines for orthogonal or skewed limit stops. The software
ignores user-defined limit stop direction cosines.

Directional Limit Stop with a Gap

36 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Two Limit Stops Acting in Opposite Directions

The stop at node 45 permits unlimited free movement in the positive
X-direction and 1.0 inches of free movement in the negative X-direction
before the limit stop becomes active.

The stop at node 195 permits unlimited free movement in the negative
X-direction and 1.0 inches of free movement in the positive X-direction.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 37

Restraints

Windows
Use the following guidelines when modeling windows in CAESAR II.
 Equal leg windows are modeled using two double-acting restraints with gaps orthogonal to
the pipe axis.
 Unequal leg windows are modeled using four single-acting restraints with gaps orthogonal to
the pipe axis, as shown in the example below.
 The gap is always positive. The plus or minus sign (+/-) on the restraint determines the
direction of movement before the gap closes. If there is no plus or minus sign (+/-) on the
restraint, then the restraint is double-acting, and the gap exists on both sides of the line of
action of the restraint. If there is a plus or minus sign (+/-) on the restraint, then the gap
exists on the restrained line of action of the restraint. For example, a positive Y (+Y) restraint
is restrained against movement in the negative Y-direction. Any gap associated with a
positive Y restraint is the free movement in the negative Y-direction before the restraint
begins acting.

Window Modeled with Four Single-Directional Restraints with Gaps

38 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Rotational Directional Restraints with Gaps

Rotation directional restraints with gaps are considered specialty items. Usually, they used only
in sophisticated expansion joint or hinge models.

Rotational Directional Restraints

The figure on the left shows a

bi-directional rotational restraint with
gap. Allowable rotation of 5º in
either direction about the Z-axis
before resistance to rotation is
encountered.

The figure on the left shows a hinge

assembly with directional rotational
restraint. Hinge assembly at node
50 can rotate relative to assembly
at node 55 only in the positive
direction about the Z-axis.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 39

Restraints

Single-Directional Restraint with Predefined

Displacement
Define the one-directional restraint as usual, and enter a unique node number in the CNode
box. Specify the predefined displacements for the CNode.

Single-Directional Restraint with Predefined Displacement

Piping at node 55 rests on top of the restraint that is displaced in the

Y-direction, simulated by node 1055.

40 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Single-Directional Restraint and Guide with Gap and

Predefined Displacement
Define the single-directional restraint and guide as usual. Enter a unique node number in the
CNode boxes for the single-directional restraint and the guide. Use the same node number for
both. Specify the predefined displacements for the CNode.
Guide Plus Single-Directional Restraint with Predefined
Displacement:

Guided piping at node 70 rests on a

structural member node 1070. The
structure undergoes a predefined
displacement.

In the example above, ignoring other loads that may be acting on the pipe, the 0.250-inch
gap will be closed in the negative X-direction, and the pipe will have a displacement of
0.50-inches in the positive X-direction.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 41

Restraints

Restraint Settlement
Use the following guidelines when modeling restraint settlement in CAESAR II:
 Model restraint settlement using a single-directional restraint with predefined displacements.
The magnitude of the predefined displacement is the amount of anticipated settlement in the
negative Y-direction.
 The operating load case is used to include the effect of settlement.
 The settlement displacements are prescribed for the connecting node at the single
directional restraint. For more information, see Single-Directional Restraint with Predefined
Displacement (on page 40).
 Settlement is considered to be an EXP load with a half-cycle.

Restraint Settlement
The weight of this pipe
at node 95 exerts a
sufficient load on the
foundation node 1095
to cause a calculated
0.325-inch settlement.

42 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Skewed Double-Acting Restraint with Gap

Use the following guidelines when modeling skewed restraints in CAESAR II:
 You can use direction vectors or direction cosines to define the line of action of the restraint.
If direction vectors are used, CAESAR II converts them to direction cosines.
 Direction cosines can be quickly checked in the graphics processor.
 Any translational axis can be used in the restraint description. The redefinition of the axis
does not affect any other restraint description for the element.
 Use caution when entering skewed direction input data. A common mistake is to specify an
axial instead of transverse restraint when modeling a skewed guide. Plotted section views of
the restrained nodes are a useful check of the skewed direction specification.
 The sense of the direction or cosine unit vector is unimportant. In the definition of
double-acting restraints, the direction vector and cosines are used only to define the restraint
line of action and are not concerned with a direction along that line.
 You can use a simple rule for finding perpendicular, skewed, or direction vectors. The
restraint is to be perpendicular to the pipe. If the pipe has skewed delta dimensions DX and
DZ, the perpendicular restraint directions vector are (DX, 0, -DZ).

Skewed Double-Acting Restraint with Gap

Figure 10: Double Acting Restraint Y,

Guided @ 45 Deg.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 43

Restraints

Figure 11: Input Using Unit Direction Figure 12: Input Using Direction Cosines
Vectors

Figure 13: Input Using Perpendicular Figure 14: Input Using Guide Restraint Type
Vector

Skewed Single-Directional Restraint

Use the following when modeling skewed single-directional restraints in CAESAR II:
 Skewed restraints can be nonlinear.
 Direction vectors or direction cosines can be used to define the line of action of the restraint.
If direction vectors are used, CAESAR II converts them to direction cosines.
 The direction of the cosines or the direction vector is along the positive line of action of the
positive (+) restraint. Refer to the example below
 Direction cosines can be quickly checked in the graphics processor.
 You can use connecting nodes (CNode) with any skewed single-directional restraint.

Skewed Single-Directional Restraint

44 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Restraint between Two Pipes Using CNodes

For the following two examples, make sure Connect Geometry Through CNodes is not
selected to avoid plotting and geometry errors. For more information, see "Geometry Definitions"
in the CAESAR II User's Guide.
Nonlinear or linear restraints can act between two different pipe nodes. The CNode property
effectively represents to what the other end of the restraint is attached.

Nonlinear Restraint Between Two Pipes

Rigid Rod Hanger Between Two Pipes

CAESAR II Applications Guide 45

Restraints

Restraint between Vessel and Pipe Models

Use the following guidelines when modeling restraints that between vessel and pipe in CAESAR
II:
 Use a restraint with a connecting node to link the pipe to the rigid element that extends from
the vessel shell.
 You can specify any number of restraints between the restrained node and the connecting
node.
 Restraints can be linear or nonlinear with gaps and/or friction.

Restraint Between Vessel and Piping

Restraints on a Bend at 45º

Linear and/or non-linear restraints can act at any point on the bend curvature. Points on the
bend curvature are like any other point in the piping system.
The figure below shows a bend supported vertically by a rigid rod. The rod is allowed to take
tensile loads only, so it is modeled as a single-directional restraint that can move freely in the
positive Y-direction.
If the positions of nodes 19 and 20 are unclear, see Bends (on page 11).
The line of action of the rod is shifted away from node 19. A downward force at node 15
produces a positive Z-moment about node 20 in the system as modeled, but a negative
Z-moment about node 20 in real-time.
The magnitude of this moment is a function of the load and the moment arm (the amount of the
shift). If this is considered significant, then a rigid element with zero weight can be placed
between node 19 and the actual point of rod attachment. The restraint is then placed at the
actual point of rod attachment.

46 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

90º Bend Restrained at Midpoint

CAESAR II Applications Guide 47

Restraints

Restraints on a Bend at 30º and 60º

You can define up to three nodes at any angle on the bend curvature, presuming the points are
more than 5º apart. Restraints can be modeled on any of these nodes. If necessary, one of the
points can be at the 0º point on the bend, which is the bend near point.
The To node of the bend is placed at the tangent intersection point for geometric construction,
but it is placed at the bend far point for analysis purposes. Consequently, specifying a node at
the bend far-weld point generates an error.
Nodes and angles on the bend curvature can be specified in any order.

Restraints on Intermediate Points Along a Bend

48 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Vertical Dummy Leg on Bends

You can model dummy legs on bends in several ways. The three most common methods used
to model dummy legs are outlined below.

Near/Far Point Method

 Easy input
 Dummy leg acts along centerline of vertical run
 Dummy leg does not act at the proper place on the bend curvature

On Curvature Method
 Easy input
 Dummy leg acts at the proper place on the bend curvature
 Dummy leg does not act along the centerline of the vertical run

Offset Element Method

 Difficult input
 Dummy leg acts at the proper place on the bend curvature
 Dummy leg acts along centerline of vertical run
The element immediately after the bend must define the downstream side of the bend.
Do not define dummy legs on the element immediately following a bend.
Dummy legs and/or any other elements attached to the bend curvature should be coded to the
bend tangent intersection point. The length of the dummy leg is taken directly from the DX, DY,
and DZ properties defined for the dummy leg of the pipe. There is no automatic alteration of the
dummy leg length due to the difference between the bend tan\-gent intersection point and the
actual point on the bend curvature where the dummy leg acts. Enter the true length of the
dummy leg in the DX, DY, and DZ boxes in the Classic Piping Input dialog box.
Input and output plots of the dummy leg always show it going to the bend tangent intersection
point.
During error checking, the software generates a warning message for each dummy leg/bend
model. Verify that the warning message description of the bend is accurate.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 49

Restraints

Vertical Dummy Leg on Bend

The bend shown on the left enters
from the top left corner of the
control station nodes 80 to 85 and
exits horizontally to the right (nodes
85 to 90). The dummy leg is
attached near the 45º point on the
bend. The centerline of the dummy
leg should line up with the
centerline of the vertical run of pipe.

Coding the bend is the same

for all three methods except alpha
is not required for the Near/Far
Point Method.

50 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Figure 15: Near Point Method

Dummy leg length is equal to the

distance from its base to the bend
tangent intersection point plus the bend
radius.
Figure 16: On Curvature Method

 Calculate α from the relation shown

on the following page.
 Enter α on the bend specification
instead of the midpoint.
 Calculate the offset distance y =
R(1-sinα).
 Add the distance y to the dummy
leg length.
Figure 17: Offset Element
Method

 Calculate α and the offset distance

x and y from the figure on the
following page.
 Add x and y to the dummy leg
length.
 Activate the offsets to subtract them
from the dummy leg.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 51

 Restraints

Vertical Leg Attachment Angle

Dummy Leg Attachment Angle Calculation

Horizontal Dummy Leg on Bends

The element leaving the bend must define the downstream side of the bend. Do not define
dummy legs on the element immediately following a bend.
Enter the true length of the dummy leg in the DX, DY, and DZ boxes in the Classic Piping
Input dialog box.
Input and output plots of the dummy leg always show the dummy leg going to the bend tangent
intersection point.
During error checking, the software generates a warning message for each dummy leg/bend
model. Verify that the warning message description is accurate.

Horizontal Dummy Leg on Midpoint of Bend

The dummy leg is defined as a zero
weight rigid supported on one end
by a spring can.

52 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Large Rotation Rods - Basic Model

Large rotation rods are used to model relatively short rods where large orthogonal movement of
the pipe causes shortening of the restraint along the original line of action.
Large rotation rods can be entered in any direction. Use the Type list on the Classic Piping
Input dialog box, to select the rotation rod: XROD, YROD, or ZROD. After the rotation rod is
selected, the restraint options change as follows:
 Gap changes to Len, which is the length of large rotation swing.
 Mu changes to Fi, which is the initial load on the restraint if used to model variable support
spring hanger. (Imagine the large rotation rod as providing a bowl in which the pipe node is
free to move.)
Enter large rotation rods only where they are needed. Repeatedly using large rotation rods when
they are not necessary can cause the system to become unstable during the nonlinear iteration.
First, analyze the system without the large rotation rods, and then add large rotation rods where
horizontal movement at support points is greatest. Usually, you should add only one rod in an
area at a time.
The rod angle tolerance is currently set at 1º.
Large rotation is generally considered to become significant when the angle of swing becomes
greater than 5º degrees.
As for any other support, connecting nodes can be used for large rotation rods. Graphically, the
connecting nodes and the restraint node do not have to be at the same point in space. There is
no plot connectivity forced between large rotation rod nodes and connecting nodes.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 53

Restraints

The plus or minus signs (+/-) on the large rotation rod determine the orientation of the swing
axis. A positive YROD (+YROD) is equivalent to an YROD and indicates that the concave side
of the curvature is in the positive Y-direction.

In the example below, the rod pivots about the structural steel support. There is a very short
swing arm, so even a small amount of horizontal movement produces a relatively large swing.
The output report for this restraint shows X- and Y-direction loads.
Large Rotation Rods:

54 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Large Rotation Rods - Chain Supports

In the model below, imagine that you want the large rotation to swing only in the plane of the
chain support (the Y-Z plane). The two pipes should move freely relative to each other in the
axial direction (the X-Y plane). To do this, use three restraints with connecting nodes. The first
restraint is the large rotation rod with its connecting nodes. In turn, the first restraint is connected
to the second and third linear restraints, allowing only Y-Z interaction between the large rotation
rod connecting node and the top pipe node.

Chain Supports

CAESAR II Applications Guide 55

Restraints

Bi-Linear Restraints
Bi-linear restraints are used most often to model soil support where some soil ultimate load
bearing capacity can be calculated. Bi-linear restraints are designated by typing a 2 immediately
after the direction in the restraint Type box.

After a bi-linear spring is entered, the restraint options change as follows:

 Stif changes to K1, which is the initial stiffness.
 Gap changes to K2, which is the yield stiffness.
 Mu changes to Fy, which is the yield load.
Both the yield stiffness (K2) and the yield load (Fy) are required. If necessary, the yield stiffness
can be defined as a negative value. The initial stiffness (K1) is optional. If it is left blank, the
software presumes a rigid initial stiffness. Some sub-sea pipeline resistance tests have shown
that load carrying capacity drops after the ultimate load is reached, and displacement continues.
For more information about the use of the spring types used to model underground piping
systems, "Buried Pipe Modeler" in the CAESAR II User Guide.

Characteristics of Bi-Linear Supports

56 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Pipe in a Trench Bi-Linear Restraint Modeling

Estimated Stiffness Models

Figure 18: Estimated Lateral

Stiffness: 60,000 lb./in. Figure 19: Estimated Vertical Stiffness: 533,333 lb./in.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 57

Restraints

Static Snubbers
Static snubbers are translational restraints designed to provide resistance to dynamic loads
such as seismic and wind. Snubbers are activated by checking the Snubbers Active? Check
box for the appropriate load case (the one that contains the occasional load) on the Load Case
Options tab in the Load Case Editor. The figure below shows that snubbers will be active in
load case L2 to restrain the pipe against the uniform load.

Figure 20: Load Case Options Tab

Static snubbers, or static analysis snubbers, have SNB following the translational direction that
displays in the restraint Type box (located on the Classic Piping Input dialog box). After you
enter a snubber, Gap and Mu are no longer available.
Static snubbers can be directional. That is, they can be preceded by a plus (+) or minus (-) sign.
To model static snubbers, follow the steps below.
1. Run the operating case without defining a snubber.
2. Note the displacements, in all six degrees of freedom, at each snubber location.
3. In the Classic Piping Input dialog box, add each snubber with a distinct CNode.
4. Place the displacements from Step 1 on all snubber CNodes.
5. Modify the load cases by including D1 everywhere that T1 displays.
6. Activate snubbers in the Load Case Editor for all load cases containing occasional loads.

58 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

Plastic Hinges
The steps in setting up a plastic hinge are illustrated below. The leg from A to B is over\-heated,
causing bending of the B-D support leg. This example models the plastic deformation at
cross-section E-E. The plastic hinge is formed between nodes 10 and 15. The expansion joint is
used to provide translational and torsional rigidity at the plastic hinge junction. Two bi-linear
supports are used to model rigid resistance to bending until a breakaway force (yield force) is
exceeded, at which point bending is essentially free.

Plastic Hinge in a Support Leg1

The yield force is computed using the

following equation:
Fy = SyZ(SF)
Where
Sy is the yield stress
Z is the section modulus
SF is the safety factor

1The plastic hinge is modeled as a zero length expansion joint with rotational
bi-linear restraints.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 59

Restraints

Sway Brace Assemblies

The sway brace is commonly used to allow unrestrained thermal movements while tuning the
system dynamically to eliminate vibration. A sway brace resembles a spring in that it can be
pre-loaded in the cold (installed) position. After pipe thermal growth, it reaches the neutral
position and the load on the system in the operating condition is zero or negligible.
The sway brace is composed of a single compression spring enclosed between two movable
plates. The spring is precompressed a full inch, which provides an initial force that
instantaneously opposes vibration. Any movement from the sway brace neutral position is
opposed by a load equal to the pre-load plus travel from the neutral position multiplied by the
sway brace spring constant. After maximum allowed travel (usually 3-inches in either direction)
is reached, the sway brace locks, preventing additional movement.
Manufacturers typically recommend a specific size sway brace for a given pipe nominal
diameter.
A more specific sway brace selection is possible when the exact restraining force required to
control the piping vibration is known. The energy necessary to control the piping is proportional
to the mass, amplitude of movement, and the force causing the vibration. From this relation, the
exact restraining force required to control the piping vibration can be calculated and an
appropriate sway brace size selected.
After it is selected, the sway brace can be modeled in CAESAR II using a combination of a
bi-linear restraint and a translational restraint:
In the event that the sway brace is to be installed in the operating condition (or the neutral
position is to be adjusted in the operating position), the modeling in CAESAR II is a little more
complex. In this case, before modeling the sway brace, you must analyze the piping system
without the sway brace to obtain displacements from the cold to neutral operating position:
Run an analysis on the system without the sway brace to obtain the displacements from cold to
operating condition. In the example illustrated below, the assumed CAESAR II-calculated
displacement from cold to operating position is 0.5 inches
In the SUS case, the displacement D2 (vector 2) represents the pre-load in cold position. Under
shutdown conditions, the pipe returns to its cold position and the brace exerts a force as
previously described.
Sustained case restraint loads on sway brace = Pre-Load + Hot Deflection * Spring Rate

60 CAESAR II Applications Guide

 Restraints

In OPE, the displacement allows thermal expansion, and the sway assumes neutral position
exerting zero or negligible load on the pipe.
Operating case restraint loads on sway brace =~ 0.0 (does not restrain thermal expansion)

Sway Brace Installed in Operating Condition

Sway brace opposing compression force (movement occurs after pre-load is

overcome).
 Spring Rate: 150 lb./in.
 Initial Loading: 150 lb.
 Allowed Movement: 3 in.
 Calculated Displacement: .5 in.

Be sure to include D2 in the sustained

and operating cases.

CAESAR II Applications Guide 61