Hello All!!!

How do you interpret this statement from ASME B31.3 321.1.1

"The layout and design of piping and its supporting elements shall be directed toward preventing the following:

(f) excessive interference with thermal expansion and
contraction in piping which is otherwise adequately
flexible."

My interpretation is to avoid interference or clashing with adjacent elements due to thermal expansion or contraction. Please correct my understanding.

Thanks & Warm Regards,

I guess that some people will confirm exactly the meaning but my opinion is that is talking about the excessive restraint action against the expansion or contraction i.e. excessive use of guides, axial stops, hold downs where is not necessary (e.g. guides very close each other that create moment restraints but in the same time large opposite reaction forces).

The other explanation may the one you mention.

Best regards,

Thanks dan for that opinion. I search for one of the meaning of the word "otherwise" in google and it says "differently" or "in another way". I think based from this meaning your opinion is correct. Because excessive use of restraints will make the system stiff otherwise it's adequately flexible. I think this clear my thought unless other have their own interpretation.

Warm Regards,

Another keyword is "excessive", my interpretation does not fit this statement because there it's hard to describe "excessive clashing", which confuses me. So I believe your opinion is more fit on the overall statement since "excessive restraints" makes more sense. Any other opinion is highly appreciated.

Warm Regards,