Hello. I've tried searching the manuals and this forum for an answer to my question, but couldn't find one, so I will start a new question:

I'd like a little bit of clarification on the proper way to model an weldolet. I have a 10" pipe, where we will have several 3", 2", and 1" weldolets. I believe I should be using a weightless rigid portion of pipe to get to the wall of the pipe, but can not remember where exatly I need to place the SIF for a weldolet. For example:

10-20 – 10 feet (+x) of 10” pipe
20-30 – 10 feet (+x) 10” pipe

At node 20 is where we’ll have a 2” weldolet. So, I believe I need to put in a weightless rigid from 20 to 40, 4” long. Then, from 40-50 would be my 2” pipe, which is about 4’ long before reaching a valve. As far as locating the SIF node, would I put that in the 10-20 segment info, placing it at 20 (like for a normal tee) or do I put it in the 20-40 segment, placing it at 40?

Thanks for your assistance,
Gary

There is an article on COADE site how to model branches on large diameter pipes. Look for Newsletters in support. I do not think people normally would consider 10" pipe as large. I would also check if it is necessary to model those small lines.

Generally weldolets have a problem in main pipe to weldolet weld if you have creep range pipe. Most other cases the problem is weldolet to small pipe. First case CAESAR II will not help.

If you put an SIF on any leg of an intersection, CAESAR II applies it to all legs. I would put it at the center of the run pipe, since the stresses in the weldolet are not going to be a problem. If you apply the SIF to your node 20, you will get what you want, an estimate of the stresses in the wall of the run pipe.

If you're concerned about the stresses in the branch pipe, you can put a socket (or other) type SIF at node 40 to calculate a stress on the branch-to-olet connection.

So, it appears that my answer is a qualified "both".