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Steam equations

CHUCK_27
CHUCK_27 Member Posts: 3
WHAT IS AN EASY TO USE AND UNDERSTAND EQUATION TO DETERMINE THE FORCE EXCERTED ON AN ANCHOR FOR STEAM PIPING?

Comments

  • Mike T., Swampeast MO
    Mike T., Swampeast MO Member Posts: 6,928


    I have NO idea what you mean by an "anchor", but the force delivered on ANY object will be the pressure (pounds per square inch here in the US) multiplied by the area (in square inches) of the object in question.
  • DanHolohan
    DanHolohan Member, Moderator, Administrator Posts: 16,601
    He's talking about

    an anchor that works with an steam-pipe expanison joint, Mike. You anchor the pipe and then let it move within a set distance on the joint. I don't have an answer for him, but I'm hoping a wiser mind will.
    Retired and loving it.
  • J.C.A._3
    J.C.A._3 Member Posts: 2,980
    Sorrry,...Not wiser but.....

    Anchor Steam ? Isn't that brewed in San Fransisco?

    Sorry ! Chris
  • Brad White_78
    Brad White_78 Member Posts: 15
    You know how long it has been....

    since I calculated that by hand? Jeeesh.

    Short answer- I do not remember, which is why I rely on various slide-rule calculators geared toward sizing loops. Metra-Flex and Flexonics among others have calculators to assist you.

    Easy equation? Mmmmmm. I wish.

    I used a program called Pipe Plus (not cheap) that would calculate node to node against maximum allowable stress (MAS). Typically this was between 5,000 and 8,000 lbs. for piping in the 6-8 inch size range IIRC. Anchors were sized for these numbers with a safety factor of 5.0. Forget the anchor, the structure has to take it. No point in anchoring an 8.0 KIP load to corrugated metal deck..

    Data entry was a chore -what's new?- but the program output would tell you if a passive loop alone would allow flexion based on temperature without reaching MAS...

    Every situation is different but I will tell you this:

    Expansion as a force of nature cannot be resisted, it must be allowed for.
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