I have an application which uses a large combined Pressure Reduction Valve (PRV) and desuperheater (12" steam inlet and 30" steam outlet). Are there significant forces resulting from the steam pressure and temperature reduction involved when using these valves? If so, are these forces to be modelled as applied externally to the system or are they absorbed internally in the piping system and thus, do not appear in the CAESAR model? I suspect that these forces are taken up internally but I would like get some input from other CAESAR users.

Also, are these large combined PRV/desuperheater valves supported independently or are they just welded into the piping system with supports being attached to the pipes (like any typical control valve application)? Should these valves be anchored on one side? What has been the experience of others out there?