I ran an analysis to model an existing system with spring cans (original documentation was lost). Caesar is telling me that one spring can location has no hot load, but indicates approx 0.25" thermal movement. I can't firgure out why I am getting this message. Any help re: trouble shooting would be appreciated. Thanks.

Apparently that position is not carrying any load. You can test that by simulating the initial, restrained weight case. Do that by running a weight analysis with rigid Y restraints at all hanger locations.
Or, you can enter the spring stiffness & cold load at thus point so CAESAR II will not "ignore" it.

Dave,

I checked the restrained weight case and there is approx 1800 lb load at that location.

Interestingly, I took the Caesar calculated cold load and spring rate for a nearby can, entered those values manually for that can, and reran. This time Caesar does calculate a variable spring hanger for the location in question (although theoretical installed load is less)

How is that explained?

Maybe that particular loadcase does not contain the H. (i.e W+P1+T1 instead W+P1+T1+H as it should be)

Regards,