I've seen "Free Thermal Analysis" referenced and have very little understanding of exactly what this means and how useful it is to perform.

Do forum members routinely use a free thermal analysis when designing a new system?

Or is it more useful in troubleshooting an existing system that is overly restrained?

Would someone describe the steps or reference where the steps are described in some detail? What I understand is that all restraints other than supports for deadweight are removed, the operating case run. Then the thermal displacements are reviewed to aid in determining strategic locations for restraints.