............and an associated topic for discussion might be the forces (of gland seal friction) that "build up" in "slip joints" before they "pop" and compress to accommodate the pipe expansion (and do it again on "cool-down"). Are these impact loadings (should they be multiplied by a "dynamic load factor" (DLF) as is used int B31.1, Appendix II, Paragraph II-3.5.1.3)? Do the anchors get "hammered" in these systems?

And axial forces on piping systems due to excessive hanger angularity (hanger rods too short) might also be fun to discuss. Lots of things give us axial loadings in our piping.

So, should there be a calculated stress (F / Am) in the Code? And, when that stress is there should it be added to the (primary) "additive stresses" (and should it be added absolutely or algebraically)? Or, should the analyst calculate the possibility of "column buckling" in the pipe due to axial compressive forces?

Just thought I would ask.

Regards, John (the trouble maker)

PS, A better question might be what is the meaning of life?