Hello,
I'm am relatively new to CAESAR and pipe stress. I am working my way through B31.3 as I am working through a model. I realize that I may be able to answer this question the further I work through the problem. However, this is an attempt to get some good feedback and advice from those of you who have the knowledge and experience that I do not.
The model is converging and passing all of the B31.3 code stress calculations and checks. However, the operating stress that is calculated is still higher than the YS of the material (A53 GR. B @ 500 deg. F). Since then, I have loosened the model up some, and added loops within reason. The code stress is now below the YS of the pipe, however it is still above the "allowable" stress found in the material database for B31.3.
I realize that B31.3 does not address the operating case, but should I continue to loosen/add more flexibility to the model?
As best that I have gathered, B31.3 does not necessarily check the calculated stress to the YS of the material, but it offers a baseline for design. Even though the model may "pass" the code, further analysis and consideration is needed to ensure a good design.
Thank you.