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This HTML Online Help with updates and comments is located at: http://pipingsolutions.us
Thank you for using TRIFLEX®!
The TRIFLEX® Windows Team
HELP INDEX ofTRIFLEX® Windows
ByPiping Solutions, Inc.
Note: You can search the topics compiled in this document by using the “Find” command of your document reader (later additions at the end of the document).
To see the old TRIFLEX® Help, click here: http://www.pipingsolutions.com/help_html/ TRIFLEX(R)WindowsHelp_old.docx
http://www.pipingsolutions.com/help_html/ TRIFLEX(R)WindowsHelp_old. pdf
http://www.pipingsolutions.com/help_html/ TRIFLEX(R)WindowsHelp_old. zip (CHM)
1
INDEX
TOPIC PAGE
AFT Impulse Import --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
API610 Pump ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
API617 Compressor ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 17
Absolute Coordinates ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
17
Absolute Coordinates Data Group ------------------------------------------------------------ 18
Additional Fields for Anchor ------------------------------------------------------------------ 18
Anchor -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
Anchor data and controls ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 19
Anchor Movements ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Anchor is Totally Free ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Anchor is Totally Rigid ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 20
Attach Node (Source) -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Attenuation Criterion --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 20
Autosave Defaults ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 21
Axis Properties ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
B31.1 All Components ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 21
B31.1 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
B31.1 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------ 22
B31.1 Temperature Independent -------------------------------------------------------------- 22
B31.3 All Components ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
B31.3 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 22
B31.3 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------ 23
B31.3 Temperature Independent -------------------------------------------------------------- 23
2
B31.4 All Components ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
B31.4 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 23
B31.4 Temperature Independent -------------------------------------------------------------- 23
B31.5 All Components ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
B31.5 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
B31.5 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------ 24
B31.5 Temperature Independent -------------------------------------------------------------- 24
B31.8 All Components ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 24
B31.8 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 25
B31.8 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------ 25
B31.8 Temperature Independent -------------------------------------------------------------- 25
BS7159 Code ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 25
BS8010 Code ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 25
Basic Calculation View ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 26
Bellows O.D. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 26
Bend Radius ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
Boundary Action Type ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 26
Boundary Conditions --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 27
Boundary Stiffness ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28
Branch Connection ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 28
Branch Connection Types --------------------------------------------------------------------- 29
Break Force (or Moment) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 29
Buoyancy ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
CODETI All Components --------------------------------------------------------------------- 30
3
CODETI Code -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30
CODETI Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet -------------------------------------------- 30
CODETI Temperature Independent ---------------------------------------------------------- 30
Comma Separated Values (CSV) Format (and 24 subthemes) --------------------------- 31
Calculate Menu ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42
Calculator Consistency View ----------------------------------------------------------------- 42
Case Definitions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42
Case Definitions Spreadsheet ----------------------------------------------------------------- 43
Case Dependent Spreadsheets ----------------------------------------------------------------- 44
Class 2/3 All Components --------------------------------------------------------------------- 45
Class 2/3 Code ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
Class 2/3 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet -------------------------------------------- 46
Class 2/3 Temperature Independent ---------------------------------------------------------- 46
Close File ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
Close Gaps --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
Cold Spring -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 46
Combination Box ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 47
Combined Report Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ----------------------------------- 48
Component Worksheet ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 48
Components Menu ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 48
Components Toolbar --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 49
4
Content Weight ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50
Copies -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
Corrosion Allowance --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 50
Cross Sectional Properties --------------------------------------------------------------------- 51
Cylindrical or Spherical Gaps ----------------------------------------------------------------- 51
DNV Code --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 51
Damper ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 52
Data Base (Database) Control Buttons ------------------------------------------------------- 52
Data Base (Database) Sub-Menu ------------------------------------------------------------- 53
Data Points --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 53
Define Load Case Combination -------------------------------------------------------------- 53
Delta Dimension -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54
Direction Calculator ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 54
Direction Detail --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55
Directions Detail -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 55
Directions Detail of Axes ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
Displacement Display -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
Display Calculation Results ------------------------------------------------------------------- 56
Display Input Parameters ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
Display Piping Code Results ------------------------------------------------------------------ 57
Edit Component Sub-Menu ------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
Edit Menu ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 57
Edit View Cache -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59
Elbow --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 59
Elbow Entry Vector ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
5
Elbow Exit Vector ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 61
Euro All Components -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 61
Euro Code ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
Euro Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet -------------------------------------------------- 62
Euro Temperature Independent --------------------------------------------------------------- 62
Excitation Direction ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
Excitation Multiplier --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 62
Excitation Point --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 63
Excitation Sets -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
63
Excitation Time Function Name -------------------------------------------------------------- 63
Excitation Times -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 63
Excitation Type --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 63
Excitation Utilities ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 64
Exit ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 64
Expansion Joint --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 64
Expansion Joint Directions -------------------------------------------------------------------- 65
Expansion Joint Stiffnesses -------------------------------------------------------------------- 65
Export Spreadsheet Data ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 66
Export Sub-Menu ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 66
Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Material Data Base (Database) -------------------------- 67
Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Material Name Database --------------------------------- 67
Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Material Properties Database ---------------------------- 67
Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) Material Spreadsheet Database ------------------------- 67
Fatigue, Fatigues -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 67
6
Feet-Inch-Fraction Separator ------------------------------------------------------------------ 67
File Menu ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 68
Find Node ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 68
Fitting Thickness -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 69
Flange, Flanges ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 69
Flange Data -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 70
Flange Data Base (Database) ------------------------------------------------------------------ 70
Flange Facing Backward ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 70
Flange Length and Weight Database (DB) -------------------------------------------------- 70
Flange Loading ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
Flange Pairing ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
Flange Pressure Class Database (DB) -------------------------------------------------------- 71
Flange Query Database (DB) ------------------------------------------------------------------
71
Flange Size Database (DB) -------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
Flange Type Database (DB) ------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
Flanged Elbow ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 71
Friction, Planar ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 72
Friction Slip Gap Details (Ultimate Force (or Moment) Gaps) --------------------------- 72
Gap - Weighted (Gap Correction with Over-Determination) ----------------------------- 72
Global Damping Factor ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 75
Graphic Colors ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu --------------------------------------------------------------- 76
Graphic Toolbar --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 76
Graphic View ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 77
7
Graphic Viewer Tuning ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 78
Help Location Sub-Menu ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 78
Help Menu --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 78
How to Enter a Release Element Component ----------------------------------------------- 78
How to Enter a Restraint ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 79
Image Resolution ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 80
Immersion ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 80
Import Sub-Menu ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 80
Import Sub-Menu G Format ------------------------------------------------------------------- 81
Input Mode Sub-Menu ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 81
Input Worksheet Distance Display ----------------------------------------------------------- 82
Insulation Material Data Base (Database) --------------------------------------------------- 82
Insulation Pipe Material Name ---------------------------------------------------------------- 82
Insulation Material Name Database ---------------------------------------------------------- 82
Insulation Material Properties Database ----------------------------------------------------- 82
Insulation Weight ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 83
Interchange Axes --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
83
Isometric View ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 83
Jacketed Release Element --------------------------------------------------------------------- 83
Joint ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 84
Joint Weight and Length ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 84
Keyword Export ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
85
Length of Bellows ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 85
8
Limit Stops Detail ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 85
Load Case Selection ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 86
Load Cases Spreadsheet ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 86
Locate Extreme Values in the Code ---------------------------------------------------------- 86
Locate Extreme Values in the Calculation -------------------------------------------------- 86
Locate Node ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 86
Lower Limit Stiffness / Damper Static Stiffness ------------------------------------------- 87
Main Menu ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87
Main Toolbar ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 87
Manual Sub-Menu ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 88
Material Data Base (Database) ---------------------------------------------------------------- 88
Material Fatigue Curve ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 89
Material Name -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89
Material Properties of the Model ------------------------------------------------------------- 89
Material Properties of the Data Database ---------------------------------------------------- 89
Material Spreadsheet Database --------------------------------------------------------------- 89
Maximum Spacing ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 89
Miscellaneous Toolbar ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 89
Modal Clustering Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ----------------------------------- 90
Mode of Vector Display ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 90
Modeling Defaults ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 90
Movement (or Load) Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------------------ 91
Name --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 91
Navy All Components -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 91
9
Navy Code --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 92
Navy Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------- 92
Navy Temperature Independent -------------------------------------------------------------- 92
Near / Mid / Far Coding ------------------------------------------------------------------------
92
NEMA Turbine ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
93
New File ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
93
Nodal Excitations ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 93
Node Number and Name -----------------------------------------------------------------------
94
Node Numbers ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 94
Node and Component Labels ------------------------------------------------------------------
94
Nominal Diameter ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 95
NPD/STOL Code ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 95
Number of Bend Arcs -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 95
Number of Intermediate Nodes --------------------------------------------------------------- 96
Number of Miter Cuts -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 96
Number of Springs ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 96
Occasional Load Case -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 96
Open File ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 96
Operating Load Case Combined -------------------------------------------------------------- 96
Optional Reflections ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 97
Orient View -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 97
Orifice Area Pressure Relief Valve (PRV) Database -------------------------------------- 97
10
Output Menu -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
97
Paste ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 97
Paste to Node (Target) ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 98
Pasted Node Numbers -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 98
Pinned Release Element ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 98
Pipe ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 98
Pipe Database ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
99
Pipe Material Name ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 99
Pipe Properties ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 100
Pipe Schedule ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100
Pipe Schedule, Wall Thickness --------------------------------------------------------------- 101
Pipe Size Data Group (Elbows and Bends) ------------------------------------------------- 101
Pipe Size at From Node ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 101
Pipe Size at To Node --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 101
Pipe Weight ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 101
Pipenet Coordinates ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 101
Pipenet Forces ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 102
Pipenet Import ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 102
Piping Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 102
Points Distance ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
Poisson's Ratio ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
Polish Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
Pressure Effects --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
11
Pressure Relief Valve -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 103
Pressure Relief Valve Data Base (Database) ------------------------------------------------ 105
Pressure Relief Valve Rating ------------------------------------------------------------------ 105
Pressure Relief Valve Weight and Dimensions --------------------------------------------- 105
Pressure Thrust Area --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 105
Primary Load Case ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 106
Print ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 106
Printer Setup ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 106
Process Data ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 106
Project (Title) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 106
Project Account Number (No.) --------------------------------------------------------------- 106
Project Client ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 106
Project Cost Code ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107
Project Definitions ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 107
Project Engineer ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
107
Project Plant ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107
Recall View ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 107
Recent Files -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108
Reducer ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 108
Reducer Type ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 109
Reference Cube --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 109
Release Element Types ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 109
Release Element for Spring Hanger Sizing ------------------------------------------------- 110
Renumber Nodes -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 110
Report Controls --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 110
12
Report Selection ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
110
Report Types Combo Box --------------------------------------------------------------------- 111
Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) Control ----------------------------------------------- 113
Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) Dialog ------------------------------------------------ 113
Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) Final Processing ------------------------------------ 114
Restraint Attachment Point on Bend Centerline -------------------------------------------- 114
Restraint Scale -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
114
Rippling Example ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 115
Rippling Property Changes -------------------------------------------------------------------- 115
Rotating Equipment ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 115
Rotating Equipment Reports Dialog --------------------------------------------------------- 115
Rotational Stiffnesses -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 116
SNIP Code --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 116
SPC 1 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 116
SPC 1 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------ 116
SPC 1 Temperature Independent ------------------------------------------------------------- 117
SPC 2 Code -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 117
SPC 2 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------ 117
SPC 2 Temperature Independent ------------------------------------------------------------- 117
Save ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 117
Save As ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 117
Save View ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
117
13
Save to Previous Version ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 118
Save without Output ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 118
Screen Top Direction --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 118
Secondary Load Case -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 118
Segment Selection ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 118
Seismic ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 119
Selection Method ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 119
Selection Sets ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 119
Setup Menu -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 120
Shape of Structure Edit Database ------------------------------------------------------------- 121
Show Transparent ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 122
Simulation Time and Interval ----------------------------------------------------------------- 122
Snapshots Generation Defaults --------------------------------------------------------------- 122
Snapshots Generation Parameters ------------------------------------------------------------ 122
Soil Loads and Resistance --------------------------------------------------------------------- 123
Specifying Pipe Size ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 124
Specifying Wall Thickness -------------------------------------------------------------------- 124
Spectral Combination Method – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ------------------- 124
Spectrum Data – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ------------------------------------ 125
Spectrum Direction – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ------------------------------ 125
Spread Print Options --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 125
Spring Attachment Movement ---------------------------------------------------------------- 125
Spring Hanger Sizing --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
Spring Load -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
Spring Position ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
14
Spring Rate -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
Spring Type -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 126
Standard Boundary Detail --------------------------------------------------------------------- 127
Static Iterations ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 128
Steam Thrust -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
128
Stress Display ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 128
Stress Intensification Factors (SIF) ----------------------------------------------------------- 128
Structural Cross Sectional Properties -------------------------------------------------------- 129
Structural Member ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 129
Structural Member Data Base (Database) --------------------------------------------------- 130
Structural Member Stress Points -------------------------------------------------------------- 130
Structural Shape Database --------------------------------------------------------------------- 131
Structural Shape and Designation ------------------------------------------------------------ 131
Structural Swing Arm -------------------------------------------------------------------------- 131
System of Units --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 131
Tabular Reports View and Spreadsheet Controls ------------------------------------------ 132
Time Function Comment ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 132
Time Function Name --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 133
Time Function Parameters --------------------------------------------------------------------- 133
Time Function Table --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 133
Time Function Type ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 133
Time Functions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 134
Time History Analysis Dialog ---------------------------------------------------------------- 134
Time History Animation Control Panel ------------------------------------------------------ 134
Time History Calculation ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 134
15
Time Simulation Parameters ------------------------------------------------------------------ 135
Translational Stiffnesses ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 135
Type (Flange) ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
135
Type (Pressure Relief Valve) ------------------------------------------------------------------
136
Type (Valve) -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
136
UKOOA Code ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 136
Ultimate Force (or Moment) Gaps ----------------------------------------------------------- 136
Uniform Load Spreadsheet -------------------------------------------------------------------- 137
Upper Limit Stiffness / Damper Dynamic Stiffness --------------------------------------- 137
User Defined Stiffness ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 137
User-Specified Spectrum Table – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ---------------- 138
Utilities Menu ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 138
Valve --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 139
Valve Class -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 140
Valve Pressure Class Database ----------------------------------------------------------------
140
Valve Data --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 140
Valve Data Base (Database) ------------------------------------------------------------------- 140
Valve Length and Weight Database ---------------------------------------------------------- 141
Valve, Pressure Release Valve (PRV) Class Database ------------------------------------ 141
Valve and Pressure Release Valve (PRV) Query Database ------------------------------- 141
Valve and Pressure Release Valve (PRV) Size Database --------------------------------- 141
Valve and Pressure Release Valve (PRV) Type Database -------------------------------- 141
16
View Along a User Defined Vector ---------------------------------------------------------- 141
View Selection by Direction ------------------------------------------------------------------ 141
Wall Thickness at From Node ---------------------------------------------------------------- 141
Wall Thickness at To Node -------------------------------------------------------------------- 142
Water Hammer ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 142
Water Hammer Calculator --------------------------------------------------------------------- 142
Weight Off --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 143
Wind / Uniform Loads ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 143
Wind Load Spreadsheet ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 143
Y Axis Rigid ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 144
Zero Period Acceleration of Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA) ----------------------- 144
TRIFLEX® Windows [Webpage] ------------------------------------------------------------ 144
Piping Solutions, Inc. [Webpage] ------------------------------------------------------------ 144
Minimum Length (update) --------------------------------------------------------------------- 145
Use Real Length (update) ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 145
Use the Minimum Length (update) ----------------------------------------------------------- 145
Later Addition: Non-conservative or liberal allowable ------------------------------------ 146
Later Addition: How to do skewed restraints ----------------------------------------------- 148
References --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 150
Next are all the Online topics here compiled (with their related Internet links):
AFT Impulse Import
17
The dialog drives generation of forces and times (see Nodal Excitations) according to an AFT Impulse Force File.
It is driven from the Import Sub-Menu. The command is enabled if modal results are available for the active document.
TRIFLEX® parses the force file and lists the force tables. Each table (row in a list box) represents an AFT Impulse table, a start time an end time.
The user may add a force to TRIFLEX® by selecting a row, and assigning a data point using the node combo box.
The "TRIFLEX Node" node combo box allows selection of a segment in the piping system. The segment ends are followed by the segment direction. This is where the user must associate the Impulse table designation with the TRIFLEX® model geometry.
API610 Pump
This dialog specifies a single pump report. There are controls for several reports.
Rotating Equipment Reports
The standard lists allowable forces and moments along the shaft, vertical, and pedestal axes. The combo boxes let the user specify the corresponding directions according to TRIFLEX®
The Y axis will be always vertical, in spite of any combo box selection. Besides, common sense suggests the shaft and the pedestal axes to be different.
API617 Compressor
This dialog specifies an API617 Compressor report. There are controls for several reports.
Rotating Equipment Reports
The additional data points are optional.
Absolute Coordinates
This dialog is invoked by all component dialogs that support "Absolute Coordinates" as a method to enter the delta dimensions.
The user may enter the absolute coordinates of the To Node. Upon return to the component dialog, the delta dimensions with respect to the From Node will be calculated and modified.
Comprehensive Help Index
18
Absolute Coordinates Data Group
Immediately below the “Element” data, the User will find a data group entitled “Absolute Coordinates”. The default values will be all zeros.
If the User wishes to enter coordinates for the first Anchor, then TRIFLEX® will use this entered coordinate as the starting coordinate. All of the subsequent components' coordinates will be based upon this starting coordinate. If the User wishes to enter coordinates for a subsequent Anchor, TRIFLEX® will use this entered coordinate to compare with the coordinate calculated by TRIFLEX®. In the event that the coordinates are different, TRIFLEX® will flag this as an error for the user to sort out and correct. The field into which data can be entered in this data group is X, Y, and Z.
X, Y, and Z – The User can leave these fields blank or enter a numerical value in one, two or three of these fields. The default values will be 0,0,0.
Additional Fields for Anchor
Immediately below the “Absolute Coordinates” data group, the User will find data fields for one additional anchor option such as Free along “Y” axis when Weight Analysis Processed for Spring Hanger Design.
Anchor Help
Anchor
An anchor defines a single dimensionless point in space. It's the easiest way to impose movements (zeroes or not) at a point in the system
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar
Anchors are no longer mandatory. A system with no anchor may just work (if properly restrained).
An anchored node (that is, the node number) must NOT be ambiguous. In other words: a node may be anchored just once. Else, an attempt for basic calculation will flag an error.
Comprehensive Help Index
Anchor data and controls
Component name
Node number combo box
19
X coordinate
Y coordinate
Z coordinate
Totally Rigid radio button
Totally Free radio button
Y Rigid radio button
User Defined radio button
X-Translational combo box
Y-Translational combo box
Z-Translational combo box
X-Rotational combo box
Y-Rotational combo box
Z-Rotational combo box
Free along Y for Installed Load Evaluation (Spring Hanger Sizing) check box
Impose Coordinates check box
Reset and Calculate Coordinates check box
Drawn as Vessel check box
Show Transparent check box
Direction Detail button
Anchor Movements
Anchor movements are specified mostly by the case dependent spreadsheet.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
20
The specified movements will be applied by the calculator only at rigid degrees of freedom.
If the anchor is aligned along/about the ABC Directions, the calculator will interpret the movements in terms of ABC components.
Users may indicate offsets, as if the anchor is connected to a rigid vessel. The anchor movements are then calculated as thermal expansions, proportional to the offsets. Users may fine-tune the choice for the vessel material and temperature.
Anchor
Anchor is Totally Free
If the User wishes to instruct TRIFLEX® to consider the anchor to be totally free, then the User should click on the radio button just to the left of “Anchor is Totally Free”. TRIFLEX® will then consider the anchor to be completely flexible along and about the X, Y, and Z axes.
Anchor is Totally Rigid
If the User wishes to instruct TRIFLEX® to consider the anchor to be totally rigid, then the User should accept the selection of this radio button. Default selection for all anchors will be with this radio button selected.
Attach Node (Source)
This is a node in the clipboard. The will be attached to the active document by changing its number to that of the Paste to Node (Target)
Paste
Attenuation Criterion
The calculator has a low-cost algorithm that estimates the maximum modal response. That is, each mode is estimated independently.
Consequently, the mode with the greatest response can be identified. Let's call it "dominant".
Attenuation is defined as the ratio between the modal response and the dominant mode response.
Usually, higher modes (with their greater frequencies) are characterized by lower attenuation values.
The attenuation criterion is defined as the ratio below which modal responses are considered meaningless. Conversely, the highest mode the response of which is equal to or exceed the criterion is considered the highest significant mode, beyond which everything is considered insignificant noise.
21
The value of 0.05 is worth trying.
Time History Calculation.
Autosave Defaults
The dialog is accessible from the File Menu.
The user may enable or disable the autosave feature. Keeping the feature enabled is strongly recommended.
The user may specify the directory into which automatic backups will be written.
The user may specify a file name for the backup. If the name conflicts with the current file name, TRIFLEX® will modify it.
Axis Properties
This dialog is associated with the Graphic View.
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu.
The dialog controls the reference size and the origin of the displayed axis (when display is enabled).
The displayed axes keeps rotating with the displayed piping system.
The properties are persistent.
B31.1 All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
B31.1 Code
Conservative Designation, Alternate Pressure Option, Fatigue Curve, and Steel Group per Weld Factor must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
B31.1 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
22
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
B31.1 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
B31.1 Temperature Independent
Joint Factor, Allowable Cold Stress, Stress Range Reduction Factor, Y Coefficient, Occasional Load Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
B31.3 All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Conservative Designation, DIN Wall Thickness Calculation, Fatigue According to DIN, Fatigue Curve, Over 120C Rating, Pressure Amplitude, Alternative Rules for Stress Range, Case 178, and Un-corroded Thickness Option must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
B31.3 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
B31.3 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
23
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
B31.3 Code
B31.3 Temperature Independent
Joint Factor, Allowable Cold Stress, Reduction Factor, Y Coefficient, Permissible Static Stress, Welding Factor, Occasional Load Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
B31.4 All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
B31.4 Code
Fatigue Curve must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
B31.4 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Property Ripple button
B31.4 Temperature Independent
Specified Minimum Yield Strength, Weld Joint Factor, and Restrained Pipe check box may change value from one component to the next.
B31.5 All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
B31.5 Code
24
Conservative Designation, and Fatigue Curve must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
B31.5 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
B31.5 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
B31.5 Temperature Independent
Joint Factor, Allowable Cold Stress, Stress Range Reduction Factor, Y Coefficient, Occasional Load Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
B31.8 All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
B31.8 Code
Fatigue Curve, On/Off shore Specification, Thin Wall Specification, Unintensified Sustained, and Algebraic Occasional Load Combination must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
B31.8 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
25
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
B31.8 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The De-rating Factors are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
B31.8 Temperature Independent
Specified Minimum Yield Strength, Specified Minimum Ultimate Tensile Strength, Design Factors, Restrained Piping, and Longitudinal Joint Factor may change value from one component to the next.
BS7159 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Design Stress, Design Strain, and FRP type, may change value from one component to the next.
BS8010 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Specific Material Yield Strength, Design Factors, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Basic Calculation View
Presenting the time-stamped log of the basic calculation. Graphic commands and options are disabled.
26
This is a rich-text view. One can select strings and copy them to the Windows® clipboard, where they become available for the applications.
General commands are accessible through the Main Menu and the Main Toolbar.
Bellows O.D.
In this field, the User is to enter the physical outside diameter of the corrugated section of the expansion point. This value is used to properly represent the expansion joint in the graphic model.
Bend Radius
The bend radius is selected by a group of three radio buttons.
Long Radius = 1.5 * nominal pipe size (consistent with the "Elbow" radio button).
Short Radius = 1 * nominal pipe size (consistent with the "Elbow" radio button).
User Defined Radius: the bend radius and bend radius ratio edit boxes are enabled for user input (consistent with the "Bend" radio button). Specifying one recalculates the other.
The "nominal pipe size" follows exact units conversion of the English (Imperial) size. For example, metric size 150 is entered into the radius calculations as 152.4 mm (6 inches).
Elbow Help
Boundary Action Type
This combo box is used for the selection of the boundary action type. In principle, the type may be selected for each axis (X, A, Y, B, Z, C) independently of the others. Moreover, a selection for a translational degree-of-freedom is independent of the one for the rotational degree-of-freedom.
Valid types (by selecting from the drop-down list, or by typing the first letter in the edit box):
+ Positive movement. The calculator will attempt free/constrained states until reaching either a non-negative movement (for free) or a repulsive reaction (for constrained).
0 No movement. Movement constrained to zero.
- Negative movement. The calculator will attempt free/constrained states until reaching either a non-positive movement (for free) or a repulsive reaction (for constrained).
L Limit stops. Limit Stops Detail.
27
D Damper. Different stiffness for static and dynamic conditions. Damper Detail.
U Ultimate Force (or Moment) Gap. Modified limit stops. Ultimate Gap Detail.
F Friction Slip Gap. A variation on the ultimate force (moment) gap. Friction Slip Gap Detail.
S Stiffness / Movement Load Combination. Standard Boundary Detail.
N None. Unrestrained. Totally free. No "restraint" record will be created
Boundary Conditions
Boundary Conditions
The term refers to the actions of restraints or releases.
For restraints, the actions are absolute because they define the attachment of the node to an inert framework.
For releases, the actions are relative because they define the attachment of the To Node to the From Node.
For example, an X+ restraint means that the X-movement must be greater than or equal to zero. However, an X+ release means that the X-movement of the To Node must be greater than or equal to the X-movement of the From Node.
No more than one translational condition may act along any axis.
No more than one rotational condition may act about any axis.
Skewed ABC axes may be defined. They must be mutually perpendicular.
These limitations may be circumvented. Several components may be coded into the same To Node, each with its own definition of restraints or releases. Each such component must abide with the limitations stated in the 3 paragraphs above.
Restraints
Releases
Comprehensive Help Index
General boundary data fields and controls
Directions Detail button
28
Friction
Boundary Action combo boxes
Limit Stop Multiplicity combo boxes
Break Force (or Moment)
Stiffness
Spring Type check boxes
Spring Position radio buttons
Spring Variation
Number of Springs
Spring Load
Spring Rate
Lower Limit Stiffness
Upper Limit Stiffness
Boundaries Load (or Movement) spreadsheets
Boundary Stiffness
This edit box is used for the Stiffness / Load combination, or as the limit stop in-between stiffness.
Following the laws of mechanics, the control may be disabled, and a "RIGID" stiffness may be enforced. That's what arbitrarily prescribed movements entail.
Branch Connection
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar
The branch component is used for the branch leg in a header-branch connection (tee). The choice of branch types and the associated data is available only to branch components, not to pipes.
With the exception of the French code (CODETI), it takes more than a branch component to create a tee. The branch has to be perpendicular to the header. The header has to consist of exactly two components of the same cross sectional dimension and along the same direction.
29
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Branch Connection Types
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Branch Connection Types
Checking a branch type enables the data fields that may be associated with it.
The branch component may be coded into the tee or from it. TRIFLEX® will figure that out by identifying the feasible header.
Branch Connection
Break Force (or Moment)
The edit box is used for the break value per ultimate force (or moment) gaps .
Buoyancy
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If the User wishes to tell TRIFLEX® to consider the effects of buoyancy on this component, then the User should place a check in the box immediately to the left of the label “Buoyancy Calculations”. The density of the fluid surrounding the pipe should also be specified on the Setup / Modeling Defaults dialog. Not to consider the effects of buoyancy is the default.
CODETI All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
CODETI Code
DIN Option, Over 120 deg. Option, and Fatigue Curve must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
CODETI Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
CODETI Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
CODETI Temperature Independent
Joint Factor, Degree of utilization of the design stress in the weld, Allowable Cold Stress, Reduction Factor, Y Coefficient, Occasional Load Factor, Maximum permissible stress under static loading, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Comma Separated Values Format in TRIFLEX®
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TRIFLEX® supports export to comma-separated-values (CSV) text files. One should review the attached sample for understanding the concept. The syntactical rules for these files are such that Excel may open them.
The string of characters between consecutive commas constitutes a cell, provided that no quote (“) appears. Any space is a part of such a string.
A quoted string is delimited by quotes immediately following and preceding the separator commas.
A quoted string is stripped off the delimiting quotes. Moreover, each internal sequence of quotes is stripped of one quote.
As a corollary, a quoted string must not have a single quote within it.
General Rules for ImportAn input line starting with an exclamation mark (!) is ignored.
An exclamation mark (!) that immediately follows a comma causes the rest of the line to be ignored.
There is no need to generate a sequence of trailing commas (delimiting soil data). TRIFLEX® starts the processing of any input line by generating an array of empty cells.
When in doubt about a value, don’t put anything. TRIFLEX® will have a default.
Hint: code small models with the data in question, export to CSV and study the resultant file.
Essential Data DefaultsTRIFLEX® starts the import with a default cross section (Nominal 6 in or 150 mm, OD 6.625 in or 168.275 mm, STD schedule, wall thickness 0.28 in or 7.11 mm) and a default modulus of elasticity (27.9 MPsi or 203.4 kN/mm2).
An empty OD calls for a nominal size lookup. If the nominal is empty, values from the previous component are picked up (default values for the first component).
An empty wall thickness calls for a size/schedule lookup. If that’s not possible, values from the previous component are picked up (default values for the first component).
The import does nothing about bend radii, minimum leg length and similar bend issues. A comprehensive error report will cover all the erroneous elbows.
File SectionsColumn numbering line. Ignored on import.
Global model information.
Type-specific column heading lines.
Component data lines.
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Global model informationFirst line: column headings. Ignored on import.
Second line: model information, by column number:
1. Version. This document elaborates on version 1. Newer versions will not be processed.2. Case name. Names with commas should be enclosed in quotes.3. Number of components.4. Units code. 0 (English), 1 (SI), 2(Metric), 3(IU1).5. Number of type lines. Following optional lines that will be ignored. A zero value will
be accepted.
Type-specific comment linesWill be ignored on import. Such lines are supposed to make the file more human-readable.
Component data linesOne line per component. The following column sequences apply:
Component basic data. Type-specific data. Material data. Restraint/Boundary data. Wind/Uniform load data. Soil data.
Component basic dataApplies regardless of type.
1. Type. Anchor, Elbow, Pipe, Flange, ExpJnt, Valve, Reducer, Joint, Branch, Release, PRV, Strct.
2. From Node. Must not be blank.3. To Node. Must not be blank (unless it’s an anchor).4. X. Delta dimension. Coordinate for an anchor.5. Y. See above.6. Z. See above.7. Number of intermediate points. Defaults to 0.8. Maximum space between points. Unused if blank.9. Weight off check. 0 (on, default) or non-zero (off).10. Buoyancy on check. 0 (off, default) or non-zero (on).11. Nominal pipe size. See “Essential Data Defaults” for a blank cell. For a metric
model, 6E will be processed as size 6, English nominal size units.12. Schedule. See “Essential Data Defaults” for a blank cell.13. Outer diameter. See “Essential Data Defaults” for a blank cell.14. Wall thickness. See “Essential Data Defaults” for a blank cell.15. Corrosion allowance. Defaults to 0.16. Content specific gravity. Defaults to 0.
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17. Content weight. Per unit length. Defaults to 0.18. Total weight. Per unit length.
Component type-specific dataThe same range of columns is used. The sequence varies according to the type.
Anchor data19) Type. 0 (fixed, default), 2 (free), 4 (rigid Y), 6 (Custom). Add 1 for free-y.20) X translational stiffness. Rigid, Free, or a positive number.21) Y translational stiffness. Rigid, Free, or a positive number.22) Z translational stiffness. Rigid, Free, or a positive number.23) X rotational stiffness. Rigid, Free, or a positive number.24) Y rotational stiffness. Rigid, Free, or a positive number.25) Z rotational stiffness. Rigid, Free, or a positive number.26) X initial translational movement. Defaults to 0.27) Y initial translational movement. Defaults to 0.28) Z initial translational movement. Defaults to 0.29) X initial rotational movement. Defaults to 0.30) Y initial rotational movement. Defaults to 0.31) Z initial rotational movement. Defaults to 0.32) X offset. Defaults to 0.33) Y offset. Defaults to 0.34) Z offset. Defaults to 0.
Elbow data19) X mid-to-exit.20) Y mid-to-exit.21) Z mid-to-exit.22) Type. 0 (elbow, default) or 1(bend).23) Radius type. 0(long, default), 1(short), 2(user-specified).24) Bend radius.25) Bend radius ratio. With respect to the nominal (or actual) pipe diameter. Defaults to
1.5.26) Fitting thickness. Defaults to component thickness.27) Number of miter cuts. Defaults to 0.28) Number of bend arc segments. Defaults to 0(no division).29) Restraint location by angle. Defaults to 0(location by near/mid/far).30) Restraint location near/mid/far selector. 0(mid, default), 1(far), 2(near).31) Flanges. 0(none, default), 1(far), 2(near), 3(both).32) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.33) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.34) Bent pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.35) Bent pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.36) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).37) Bend flexibility factor.
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Pipe data19) Cut type. 0(none, default), 1(long), 2(short).20) Pipe beginning stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.21) Pipe beginning stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.22) Pipe end stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.23) Pipe end stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.24) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).
Flange data19) Offset type. R1*1024 + R2. R1=0(1 flange far, default) or 1(1 flange,
near). R2=0(2 flanges, far, default), 1(mid), 2(near).20) Rate. Defaults to 150.21) Manufacturer. For database lookup.22) Number of flanges. 0(1 flange, default), nonzero(2 flanges).23) Flange facing back. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).24) Fitting length. Checked for values exceeding the component length.25) Fitting weight.26) Insulation factor. Defaults to 1.5.27) Rupture disk indicator. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).28) Rupture disk thickness.29) Rupture disk weight.30) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.31) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.32) Pipe end stress intensification factor. Blank is fine.33) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).
ExpJnt (expansion joint) data19) Coordinates type. 0(XYZ, default), nonzero(ABC axial, transverse).20) Weight.21) Pressure thrust area.22) Tie rods. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).23) Length of bellows.24) Diameter for bellows.25) X translational stiffness. Rigid ±, Free, or a positive number.26) Y translational stiffness. Rigid ±, Free, or a positive number.27) Z translational stiffness. Rigid ±, Free, or a positive number.28) X rotational stiffness. Rigid ±, Free, or a positive number.29) Y rotational stiffness. Rigid ±, Free, or a positive number.30) Z rotational stiffness. Rigid ±, Free, or a positive number.31) X-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction.32) Y-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction.33) Z-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction.34) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.35) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.36) Pipe end stress intensification factor. Blank is fine.
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37) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides), 1(automatic, default).
Valve data19) Type. 0(welded, default), nonzero(flanged).20) Manufacturer.21) Rate. Defaults to 150.22) Fitting length. Checked for values exceeding the component length.23) Fitting weight.24) Operator weight.25) Insulation factor.26) Offset. 0(far, default), 1(mid), 2(near).27) Flanged valve offset. 0(far weld, default), 1(far flange-valve weld), 2(mid), 3(near).28) Flange manufacturer.29) Flange length.30) Flange weight.31) Flange insulation factor. Defaults to 1.5.32) Flange location. 0(none, default), 1(facing back), 2(facing forward), 3(2 flanges).33) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.34) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.35) Pipe end stress intensification factor. Blank is fine.36) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).
Reducer data19) Large end nominal pipe size. For a metric model, 6E will be processed as size 6,
English nominal size units.20) Large end outer diameter.21) Large end schedule.22) Large end wall thickness.23) Small end nominal pipe size. For a metric model, 6E will be processed as size 6,
English nominal size units.24) Small end outer diameter.25) Small end schedule.26) Small end wall thickness.27) Fitting length. Checked for values exceeding the component length.28) Fitting weight.29) Angle.30) Type. 0(concentric, default), 1(flat down), 2(flat up), 3(flat per angle).31) Beginning stress intensification factor.32) End stress intensification factor.
Joint data19) Type. String. Defaults to blank.20) Offset. 0(near), 1(mid), 2(far, default).21) Fitting weight.22) Fitting length. Checked for values exceeding the component length.
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23) Flexible. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).24) Moment of inertia about the B axis. A must for flexible joints.25) Moment of inertia about the C axis. A must for flexible joints.26) Polar moment of inertia. A must for flexible joints.27) B distance between the extreme fiber and the centroid.28) C distance between the extreme fiber and the centroid.29) Cross sectional area. A must for flexible joints.30) X-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction. For flexible
joints.31) Y-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction. For flexible
joints.32) Z-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction. For flexible
joints.33) B shear factor. Defaults to 1.34) C shear factor. Defaults to 1.35) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.36) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.37) Pipe end stress intensification factor. Blank is fine.38) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).39) Length check. 0(no), nonzero(yes, default).40) C axis flipped. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).41) Shape. Placeholder. Defaults to 0 (square).
Branch data19) ASME type. 0(welding tee, default), 1(sweepolet), 2(weldolet), 3(fabricated tee),
4(extruded tee), 5(latrolet), 6(flexibility factor), 7(ASME), 8(user defined), 9(molded FRP), 10(fabricated FRP).
20) B31.1 type. 0(a, default), 1(b), 2(c), 3(d).21) Pad thickness.22) Crotch radius.23) Pipe beginning stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.24) Pipe beginning stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.25) Pipe end stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.26) Pipe end stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.27) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).28) Molded FRP Tm. Defaults to wall thickness.29) Molded FRP Tb. Defaults to wall thickness.30) Fabricated FRP Tb. Defaults to wall thickness.
Release data19) Free for the dead weight analysis of spring hanger sizing. -1(none, default), 0(all),
1(Y).20) Type. 0(rigid, default), 1(free), 2(custom), 3(pinned), 4(jacketed).21) Pinned. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).22) Pin length.
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23) Pin diameter.24) Pin X axis. Defaults to 1.25) Pin Y axis. Defaults to 0.26) Pin Z axis. Defaults to 0.27) Pin alignment. 0(A), 1(B), 2(C, default).28) Jacketed. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).29) Spider outer diameter.30) Spider inner diameter.
PRV (pressure relief valve) data19) Type. 0(welded, default), nonzero(flanged).20) Manufacturer.21) Rate. Defaults to 150.22) Height.23) Mid to exit length.24) Inlet to mid length.25) Nominal pipe size. For a metric model, 6E will be processed as size 6, English
nominal size units.26) Exit nominal pipe size. For a metric model, 6E will be processed as size 6, English
nominal size units.27) Orifice area.28) Fitting weight.29) Insulation factor.30) Flange manufacturer.31) Flange length.32) Flange weight.33) Flange insulation factor.34) Flange location. 0(none), 1(inlet), 2(exit), 3(both, default).35) Exit schedule.36) Exit wall thickness.37) Relief X.38) Relief Y.39) Relief Z.40) Exit length41) Exit height.42) Inlet length.43) Second flange manufacturer.44) Second flange length.45) Second flange weight.46) Second flange insulation factor.47) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, in-plane. Blank is fine.48) Entry pipe stress intensification factor, out-of-plane. Blank is fine.49) Pipe end stress intensification factor. Blank is fine.50) Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors. 0(user overrides),
1(automatic, default).
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Strct (structural member) data19) Type. String. Defaults to W6X16.20) Offset. 0(near), 1(mid), 2(far, default).21) Fitting weight.22) Fitting length. Checked for values exceeding the component length.23) Flexible. 0(no), nonzero(yes, default).24) Moment of inertia about the B axis. Defaults to shape/type lookup.25) Moment of inertia about the C axis. Defaults to shape/type lookup.26) Polar moment of inertia. Defaults to shape/type lookup.27) B distance between the extreme fiber and the centroid. Defaults to shape/type
lookup.28) C distance between the extreme fiber and the centroid. Defaults to shape/type
lookup.29) Cross sectional area. Defaults to shape/type lookup.30) X-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction. For flexible
joints.31) Y-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction. For flexible
joints.32) Z-C angle. For ABC, must be perpendicular to the axial direction. For flexible
joints.33) B shear factor. Defaults to 1.34) C shear factor. Defaults to 1.35) Entry pipe stress intensification factor. Blank is fine.36) Length check. 0(no), nonzero(yes, default).37) C axis flipped. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).38) Shape. 0(W, default), 1(M), 2(S), 3(HP), 4(C), 5(MC), 6(L), 7(round), 8(square),
9(rectangular), 10(structural rectangular tubing), 11-13(structural round tubing), 14(custom).
39) User-Specified 1. Diameter (circular shapes), side (square), height (rectangular).40) User-Specified 2. Thickness (round tubing), width (rectangular).41) User-Specified 3. Thickness (rectangular tubing).
Material dataApplies to all component types.
51. Material code. 2 letters. Defaults to LS.52. Material name.53. Pipe density.54. Poisson’s ratio. Defaults to 0.3.55. Weight.56. Base temperature.57. Coefficient of thermal expansion.58. Elasticity modulus.59. Temperature.60. Pressure.61. Mode. 0(installed mode, default), nonzero(operating).62. Axial modulus. FRP.
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63. Hoop modulus. FRP.64. Shear modulus. FRP.65. Expansion. FRP.66. FRP. 0(no, default), nonzero(yes).67. Insulation material name. Defaults to none.68. Insulation density.69. Insulation thickness.70. Insulation weight.
Restraint/Boundary dataWill be ignored for expansion joints.
For anchors, only the directional axes will be processed.
For releases, the boundary data will be processed for the release. The restraint object will be blank.
71. Spring attachment movement. Defaults to 0. Ignored for releases.72. X translational boundary type. +(only positive movement), 0(no movement), -(only
negative movement), L(limit stops), D(damper), U(ultimate load gap), F(friction slip gap), S(stiffness/load/movement), N(none, default).
73. Stiffness. FREE, RIGID, or a positive number. Blank for a clear boundary (type S).74. Lower limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.75. Upper limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.76. Break value for ultimate load gap.77. Prescribed movement, or upper limit stop.78. Applied load, or lower limit stop.79. Y translational boundary type. +(only positive movement), 0(no movement), -(only
negative movement), L(limit stops), D(damper), U(ultimate load gap), F(friction slip gap), S(stiffness/load/movement), N(none, default).
80. Stiffness. FREE, RIGID, or a positive number. Blank for a clear boundary (type S).81. Lower limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.82. Upper limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.83. Break value for ultimate load gap.84. Prescribed movement, or upper limit stop.85. Applied load, or lower limit stop.86. Z translational boundary type. +(only positive movement), 0(no movement), -(only
negative movement), L(limit stops), D(damper), U(ultimate load gap), F(friction slip gap), S(stiffness/load/movement), N(none, default).
87. Stiffness. FREE, RIGID, or a positive number. Blank for a clear boundary (type S).88. Lower limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.89. Upper limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.90. Break value for ultimate load gap.91. Prescribed movement, or upper limit stop.92. Applied load, or lower limit stop.
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93. X rotational boundary type. +(only positive movement), 0(no movement), -(only negative movement), L(limit stops), D(damper), U(ultimate load gap), F(friction slip gap), S(stiffness/load/movement), N(none, default).
94. Stiffness. FREE, RIGID, or a positive number. Blank for a clear boundary (type S).95. Lower limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.96. Upper limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.97. Break value for ultimate load gap.98. Prescribed movement, or upper limit stop.99. Applied load, or lower limit stop.100. Y rotational boundary type. +(only positive movement), 0(no movement), -
(only negative movement), L(limit stops), D(damper), U(ultimate load gap), F(friction slip gap), S(stiffness/load/movement), N(none, default)
101. Stiffness. FREE, RIGID, or a positive number. Blank for a clear boundary (type S).
102. Lower limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.103. Upper limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.104. Break value for ultimate load gap.105. Prescribed movement, or upper limit stop.106. Applied load, or lower limit stop.107. Z rotational boundary type. +(only positive movement), 0(no movement), -
(only negative movement), L(limit stops), D(damper), U(ultimate load gap), F(friction slip gap), S(stiffness/load/movement), N(none, default).
108. Stiffness. FREE, RIGID, or a positive number. Blank for a clear boundary (type S).
109. Lower limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.110. Upper limit stiffness. RIGID or a number.111. Break value for ultimate load gap.112. Prescribed movement, or upper limit stop.113. Applied load, or lower limit stop.114. Skewed boundaries. 0(XYZ axes, default), nonzero(ABC axes).115. A-X cosine.116. A-Y cosine.117. A-Z cosine.118. C-X cosine.119. C-Y cosine.120. C-Z cosine.121. Spring hanger. 0(none, default), 1(sizing), 2(existing).122. Variation.123. Number of springs.124. Existing spring load.125. Existing spring rate.126. Friction coefficient.
Wind/Uniform load data127. Wind speed.128. Wind load.129. Pressure force.
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130. Shape factor.131. Option. 0(none, default), 1(wind), 2(uniform), 3(both).132. Wind entry. 0(speed), 1(pressure), 2(actual), 3(UBC), 4(ASCE).133. X wind angle.134. Y wind angle.135. Z wind angle.136. Uniform load.137. X load angle.138. Y load angle.139. Z load angle.
Soil data140. Type. 0(none), 1(ASME), 2(table).141. Back fill. Lookup for: Dry Sand, Damp Top Soil, Saturated Top Soil, Damp
Yellow Clay, Saturated Yellow Clay, Wet Sand.142. Density.143. Trench Depth.144. Trench width.145. Horizontal stiffness.146. Load coefficient.147. Axial friction.148. Soil friction.149. Vertical load.150. Axial movement 1.151. Axial movement 2.152. Axial movement 3.153. Axial movement 4.154. Axial stiffness 1.155. Axial stiffness 2.156. Axial stiffness 3.157. Axial stiffness 4.158. Lateral movement 1.159. Lateral movement 2.160. Lateral movement 3.161. Lateral movement 4.162. Lateral stiffness 1.163. Lateral stiffness 2.164. Lateral stiffness 3.165. Lateral stiffness 4.166. Transverse down movement 1.167. Transverse down movement 2.168. Transverse down movement 3.169. Transverse down movement 4.170. Transverse down stiffness 1.171. Transverse down stiffness 2.172. Transverse down stiffness 3.173. Transverse down stiffness 4.
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174. Transverse up movement 1.175. Transverse up movement 2.176. Transverse up movement 3.177. Transverse up movement 4.178. Transverse up stiffness 1.179. Transverse up stiffness 2.180. Transverse up stiffness 3.181. Transverse up stiffness 4.
Calculate Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
Basic Calculation (start/suspend/resume)
Progress Log Preferences
Define Load Case Combination
Recalculate Combined Cases
Response Spectrum Analysis Dialog
Response Spectrum Log Message
Time History Analysis Dialog
Calculator Consistency View
Maintaining inconsistent data Graphic commands and options are disabled
General commands are explained.
Case Definitions
This is the collective name for options that control case-dependent (and component-independent) aspects of TRIFLEX®.
The dialog is accessible from the Setup Menu.
The definitions have a default state to which they are initialized for new models (see Default State).
The relevance of some definitions may depend on Modeling Defaults settings.
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The Case Definitions Spreadsheet holds definitions that are mostly logical switches. The buttons help manipulate cases as whole entities.
Case selection is done by clicking at the corresponding column header in the spreadsheet. Multiple case selection is accessible by combinations of shift-click and ctrl-click.
Delete Case is enabled if EXACTLY one case is selected.
Insert Case PREpends a new case ahead of the selected case.
Add Case APPends a new case following the case with the highest case index number.
Define Case is enabled if the ONLY selected case has the "combined case" checked (see Case Definitions Spreadsheet). Moreover, valid calculation results have to be present. The button activates the Define Load Case Combination dialog.
When verbs like "delete", "insert", or "paste" are used for cases, they apply to much more than the switches and numbers represented by the spreadsheet. All the case-dependent data in the component tabs, cyclic loading, etc., will be operated upon similarly.
The same holds good to "undo" (only pasting) and "cancel".
Case Definitions Spreadsheet
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Besides, insert/add/delete/define operations are supported (see Case Definitions).
The cases are organized column-wise. Rows are explained below.
Load Case Index. Ordinal number. Just a column header.
Load Case Name. Under user control. Avoid using special characters.
Process this Case. Only checked cases will be presented to the calculator.
Perform Operating Case Analysis. Will develop to thermal + pressure + weight, without primary/secondary decomposition.
Perform Hydro-Test Case (P + Wt w/1.0). That is, no thermal, contents overridden by water.
Perform Piping Code Compliance Analysis. Will develop to thermal + pressure + weight, without primary/secondary decomposition (hot sustained).
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Temperature. Prescribed movements are thermal. Non-linear boundaries activated only with the presence of thermal
Pressure. May decompose into the primary (default) or the secondary.
Pipe Weight. Contents Weight. Insulation Weight. Global filters to what will be presented to the calculator.
Anchor Movement. Restraint Movement. Global filters to what will be presented to the calculator.
Restraint Loads. Global filters to what will be presented to the calculator.
Soil Interaction. Global filters to what will be presented to the calculator.
Wind Loading Included with Weight. Global filters to what will be presented to the calculator. Added to the weight loads, just like all the mechanical restraint loads and uniform loads.
Wind Loading as Occasional Load. Global filters to what will be presented to the calculator. Added to the occasional loads, just like seismic (if present).
Response Spectrum as Occasional Load. Hold slots for the results of the response spectrum analysis post-processor.
Time History as Occasional Load. Hold slots for the results of the time history analysis post-processor.
Seismic Loads - Static Equivalent. Apply as occasional loads.
Mode Shapes and Frequencies. Modal analysis. All boundaries are linearized.
Operating State of Restraints. Record the operating state of all boundaries, apply in the modal case.
Combined Case. Mark the case as a place-holder for subsequent load case combinations.
Cold Sustained Case. Recommended by ANSI-style piping codes. It's a pseudo operating (thermal forced to no expansion, anchor/restraint movements forced to zeroes). It may be used as the primary (hence "sustained") and may participate in displacement stress range calculation.
Gravity Direction. 3 components. Allowing for pitch and roll.
Case Dependent Spreadsheets
The user may treat a case as a whole (an entire column in the case definition, or two corresponding rows in the wind/uniform tab in their entirety). Case-based operations are driven
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by buttons (Copy, Paste, Undo) or mouse clicks at the “index” cells. That is, the numbered cells at the top row (cases occupy columns) or the left column (cases occupy rows). Any mouse or keyboard input elsewhere is transparent to case-based processing.
Multiple block selection can be reached by a sequence of mouse clicks at the case index (top row or left column), following these rules:
1. A simple mouse click (no key is pressed) unconditionally selects the case.
2. A shift-click selects the range of cases extending from the last selection to the current.
3. A ctrl-click toggles the case between selected-deselected states.
If any case is selected, the Copy button is enabled.
Press the Copy button, and the case will be copied to the clipboard. The clipboard behaves like a stack with the depth of 32. That is, a Copy operation is pushed to the stack, so that only when the stack is full, the oldest copy is lost.
The Paste button is disabled because there is no point in pasting a selection of cases onto itself. Change the selection, and the Paste button is enabled.
The Paste operations copies cases from the clipboard (Copy selection) to the current selection (Paste selection). Every case within the Paste selection is overwritten by a case from the Copy selection. If the Paste selection consists of a greater number of cases, the Copy selection is recycled. If some cases are selected both for Copy as well as for Paste, so be it. The chips will fall as they may.
As soon as a Paste is completed, the Undo button is enabled, and it stays enabled as long as the clipboard is not empty.
The Undo operation restores the entire spread-sheet (or both spread-sheets) to their state after the last Copy. That state will be popped off the clipboard. The state includes the contents of the cells, and the selection. Subsequent Undo operations are permitted as long as the clipboard is not empty.
Class 2/3 All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Class 2/3 Code
BS Designation, Level, and Edition must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
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Class 2/3 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
Class 2/3 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Class 2/3 Temperature Independent
Allowable Cold Stress, Stress Range Reduction Factor, ECH Coefficient, Y Coefficient, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Close File
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu.
All the resources by which the model information is available to the user are released. Hence, the user is informed when close is attempted for a model that has been modified since the last save.
Close Gaps
The dialog is driven by a user request while viewing the connectivity log.
An elaborate discussion is presented in Gap Correction with Over-Determination.
Cold Spring
A pipe spool may have a short piece of pipe inserted or removed prior to connecting to another pipe spool (or a re-connected cut, with a piece inserted or removed).
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The cut is Short if the piece is removed prior to connection (or to reconnection).
The cut is Long if the piece is inserted prior to connection (or to reconnection).
Piping codes disallow taking credit of any stress relief thus obtained due to the fact that the stress range will not be any lower due to being cut short or cut long.
When allowed, the calculator treats the cut as a piece of pipe with the thermal expansion of the cut length, signed negative (short), or positive (long).
Combination Box
The rules for the load case combination are maintained in a multi-line edit box.
The edited expressions consist of "variables" and "operator" text tokens. Text tokens can be entered (or modified) by keystrokes. There are buttons that stand in for their caption strings.
A load case multi-level number plays the role of a variable. It means that for every data point, and for every movement or force, the combination plugs in the respective result for this particular load case.
Complex expressions are available by the use of parentheses and function calls.
+ or - incur addition (or subtraction). That is, obtaining the sum, or difference, of expressions.
MAX or MIN lead to the greatest or least of several expressions.
SRSS lead to the square root of the sum of the squares of several expressions.
ABS leads to the absolute value.
ABS_PEAK leads to the greatest (in absolute value) of several expressions.
MAX_RANGE leads to the greatest possible difference between any two of several expressions.
SIN, COS, TAN, ASIN, ACOS, ATAN, ATAN2, ANGLE - Trigonometric Functions.
EXP, LOG, LOG10 - exponentiation / logarithmic functions.
SINH, COSH, TANH, ASINH, ACOSH, ATANH - hyperbolic functions.
MOD - modular.
SGN - sign.
AND, OR, XOR, NOT, LEQ, LGE, LGT, LLE, LLT - logical functions.
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DIST - distance.
RAD, DEG - conversions.
RAND, IRAND - random.
GAMMA, FACT, BESSJ - gamma, factorial, Bessel.
Load Cases Spreadsheet
Combined Report
For Spectral Combination Methods that start the combination across the modes (inter-modal, hence intra-spectral), the spectral estimates are saved and reported.
It's the user's choice whether to combine these spectral estimates across the spectra. It's recommended to do so and to use the results as an occasional load case.
Response Spectrum Analysis Control.
Component Worksheet
Spreadsheet access to component data entry. Graphic commands and options are disabled
General commands are accessible through the Main Menu and the Main Toolbar.
The view is toggled (with the Graphic View) through an item in the File Menu, or a toolbutton in the Main Toolbar.
Each row in the spreadsheet represents a component. The current component row is highlighted, black-on-grey. Selected components rows are highlighted white-on-black.
Double click a cell, and the component becomes current, and the edit dialog opens.
Click the empty component cell (bottom row), and a type combo box opens. One can use it to add a component, with the limited information accessible from the spreadsheet.
Existing component data can be modified by editing cell data. Accessible data: From Node, To Node, Delta X (or Y or Z), Size, Temperature, Pressure.
Column widths are controllable by mouse clicks at the column dividers in the row header. Watch the change of cursor, and slide to adjust.
Components Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
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Component editing can also be accessed by the Components Toolbar and the Miscellaneous Toolbar
Edit Component Sub-Menu
Input Mode Sub-Menu
Anchor
Pipe
Elbow
Branch Connection
Valve
Flange
Reducer
Joint
Expansion Joint
Release
Structural Member
Pressure Relief Valve
Comprehensive Help Index
All specification and controls may change value from one component to the next.
Components Toolbar
The toolbar is accessible regardless of the active view.
Component editing can also be accessed by the Components Menu.
Pipe
Elbow
Branch Connection
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Valve
Flange
Reducer
Joint
Expansion Joint
Release
Structural Member
Pressure Relief Valve
Content Weight
Content Specific Gravity and Weight are recalculated any time one of them is changed. Content weight also depends on pipe diameter and thickness.
Total Weight is recalculated any time any weight item is changed.
Pipe Properties
Copies
Pipes and Structural Members have this cloning capability. If the number of copies is greater than one, additional components will be generated on successful OK.
The components will be identical (in terms of all properties, including all the other dialog tabs).
The components will be contiguous. Each component (but the last) will share its To Node with the successor From Node. These node numbers will be generated by TRIFLEX®.
The user may specify whether the delta vector applies to each copy, or has to be divided into the number of copies.
These components may be subsequently merged into one.
Corrosion Allowance
Pipe weights are calculated with the un-corroded wall thickness (greater loads).
Pipe stiffnesses are calculated with the un-corroded wall thickness.
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Stress calculations are code-dependent. Usually, the corroded thickness is used in the axial and hoop parts of the stress calculations. The bending part is usually carried out with the un-corroded wall thickness. However, piping codes have their differences.
Cross Sectional Properties
The cross sectional properties are calculated with respect to a centroidal principal system. That is, the B and C axes (A is for the axial direction along the structural member) originate at the centroid (the first moments are zero). Moreover, the axes are principal, the mixed moment of inertia (second moment) is zero.
Structural Member Data Base
Cylindrical or Spherical Gaps
These combo-boxes double up as Damper Qualifiers.
However, they are principally used for multiple aces limit stops.
TRIFLEX® supports combinations. Any pair of axes (XY, XZ, YZ) can be considered for a cylindrical gap.
For a cylindrical gap to be valid, upper/lower limit should be of opposite signs and the same absolute value. Moreover, the same limits, type, and stiffnesses should be specified for both axes, and the same selection (such as XY cylindrical).
During the equilibrium iterations, the limits are updates according to the direction of the movement. For example, if the gap is specified for 1 in., as the X-limits are modified to +-0.6, the Y-limits are modified to +- 0.8. On subsequent iterations, they will be modified according to the new direction of movement
The only spherical gap is applied to XYZ. The upper/lower limit should be of opposite signs and the same absolute value. Moreover, the same limits, type, and stiffnesses should be specified for both axes, and the same XYZ selection.
The limits will be modified in a manner similar to the cylindrical gaps, but in three dimensions.
Limit Stops Detail.
Boundary Conditions
DNV Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
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Specific Material Yield Strength, Weld Joint Factor, Temperature Reduction Factor, Hoop Stress Design Factor, Equivalent Stress Design Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Damper
A damper is defined by two stiffnesses.
The static stiffness is applied for all aspects of operating (thermal + pressure + weight) analysis. Defaults to FREE.
The dynamic stiffness is applied for the occasional aspects of operating (seismic, wind) analysis. Also to modal analysis. Defaults to RIGID.
A combo-box qualifies the application of the dynamic stiffness: both directions, free in the positive direction, free in the negative direction.
Data Base (Database) Control Buttons
The effect of the buttons is limited to the current data base table (selected by pipe size, material name, valve rate, etc.)
First, Last, Previous, and Next are used for navigation within the selected table.
New, Delete, Save are used for editing table records. Sometimes these buttons are disabled (for example, pipe sizes are not modifiable).
When modified records are committed to the data base (pressing "Save"), the issue of concurrent TRIFLEX® users arises. There are locks precluding concurrent writes to the data base. Write operations may be re-tried (user discretion). CAUTION - a successful write operation may interfere with record searches/reads for concurrent users (say, a deletion of something they wish to search).
Pipe data Base
Flange data Base
Valve data Base
Structural Member data Base
Material data Base
Insulation Material data Base
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Data Base Sub-Menu
This is a sub-menu of the Utilities Menu.
Pipe Data Base
Flange Data Base
Flange Data Base
Pressure Relief Valve Data Base
Structural Member Data Base
Material Data Base
Insulation Material Data Base
FRP Material Data Base
Data Points
A component is presented to the calculator as a fitting with lead pipes. A pipe is broken up into a sequence of pipe-related data points. The rest of the calculation, and the presentation of results, are phrased in terms of the generated data points.
The number of generated data points strikes the balance between accuracy of the computational model, detail of results, and cost.
Most component types allow the user to specify intermediate points, or maximum spacing. The user may specify maximum spacing with respect to the diameter (nominal when available, else outside), it applies to all components where no spacing is specified.
A buried pipe is calculated with maximum spacing of 3 diameters if the field is left with a zero.
Besides, "beginning" type data points may be added to components unconditionally. Usually, such data points are generated only if TRIFLEX® finds any kind of discontinuity.
Otherwise, the "ending" type data point of the predecessor component shou7ld be assumed (by the user of any report) to double up for the beginning of the current component.
Modeling Defaults
Define Load Case Combination
This dialog may be activated by the "Define Case" button in the Case Definitions dialog.
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Besides, it's driven by a menu item in the Calculate Menu.
The menu item is enabled if there are results cases, and if the selected case is marked as combined (see Case Definitions Spreadsheet).
Load case combination is meant to populate the operating, primary, secondary, and occasional load cases of the defined case with combinations of previously obtained load cases.
The breakup (primary, secondary, etc.) primes the combined case for ANSI-type piping code reports with the (hot) sustained / displacement stress calculation.
Load Cases Spreadsheet
Primary Load Case
Secondary Load Case
Occasional Load Case
Operating Load Case
Delta Dimension
Delta dimensions usually represent the vector starting from the From Node and terminating at the To Node.
Some components allow the user to qualify that vector as terminating at another fitting-based location.
In such a case, the location of the To Node is internally adjusted, as explained within the context of Near / Mid / Far coding.
Either way, the distance between the (adjusted location of the) From Node and the (adjusted location of the) To Node must make room for the fitting length (when applicable).Direction Calculator
The dialog fronts the calculation of Longitudinal / Normal / Guide directions. It is driven by the Directions Detail dialog.
The user have several choices in defining the L vector.
The N vector can be calculated as the "perpendicular-most-upper" or as a vector in the bend plane.
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Direction Detail
The button triggers the directions detail dialog (available for anchors, restraints, or releases).
The button is enabled for custom (user-defined) boundaries only.
The dialog allows the user to:
Choose between the XYZ global direction or customized ABC directions.
Calculate the ABC directions in several ways.
All boundary conditions (movements, loads, stiffnesses) are applied along the selected XYZ or ABC directions.
Directions Detail
This dialog is accessible from the anchor and release dialogs, and from the restraints tab. It is used for the selection between the global XYZ directions, or the user-defined ABC directions. As for the latter, the dialog offers several ways of specifying skewed directions.
Anchors
Releases
Restraints
Comprehensive Help Index
Users have a choice between the global XYZ coordinate system and their specification of a local (just for the associated component) ABC system. Other controls in this dialog are enabled only for the ABC system.
The ABC axes can be specified by means of direction vectors (3 components each, TRIFLEX® normalizes to direction cosines).
Alternatively, the directions may be specified in terms of direction angles. TRIFLEX® verifies the validity of the angles, flagging angle errors.
As another alternative, an axis vector and a rotation can be used for determining the other vector.
The user must specify which pair of direction axes are directly specified. That is because the ABC directions must form a right-handed triad of vectors. TRIFLEX® enforces this requirement. The "Complete Axes" button will produce an immediate feedback with respect to the third axis, and ascertain that the two user-specified vectors are perpendicular.
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A direction may be calculated by pressing the button for LNG calculation (see Direction Calculator).
Directions Detail of Axes
The Directions Detail of Axes dialog defines the directions for boundaries (anchors, restraints, or releases).
Boundary Conditions
Spring Type
Displacement Display
Beside color coding, displacement results may be visualized by the show of the deviated piping system.
The deviated system is obtained by adding the translational movements (displacements, scaled up or down) to the "as-coded" coordinates.
The system may be rendered in solid or line mode, for the sake of realism or performance.
Movements associated with dynamic analyses may be animated, where the speed can be controlled.
Movements associated with time history analysis may be animated too, where a
Display Time History control panel is enabled.
Time history animation is enabled only if a time history snap-shot is selected from the load case combo box.
Display Calculation Results
Display Calculation Results
The dialog is accessible from the Output Menu or the Main Toolbar. It depends on the presence of calculation results and on the Graphic View being active.
Values are graphically displayed either by color coding, or (movements only) a deviated shape juxtaposed next to the "as-coded" piping system.
Locate Extreme Values
Mode of Vector Display
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Stress Display
Displacement Display
Display Input Parameters
The dialog is accessible from the Output Menu or the Main Toolbar. It depends on the Graphic View being active.
Values are graphically displayed by color coding.
Parameters are grouped so that the combo boxes don't become too large.
Only the Pipe Properties group is case-independent.
Display Piping Code Results
The dialog is accessible from the Output Menu or the Main Toolbar. It depends on the presence of piping code results and on the Graphic View being active.
Values are graphically displayed by color coding.
Locate Extreme Values
Edit Component Sub-Menu
This is a sub-menu in the Components Menu
Position subsequent editing. Also accessible from the Miscellaneous Toolbar
Current
First
Last
Next
Previous
Edit Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
Undo
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Redo
Cut
Copy
Paste
Delete
Merge (see Copies)
Interchange Axes
Renumber Nodes
Locate Node
Find Node
Copy Whole Spreadsheet
Export Spreadsheet Data
Selection Sets
Toggle Current Component Selection
Select Current Branch
Deselect Current Branch
Select by Component Type
Select Components with Temperature Error
Select All
Deselect All
Invert Selection
Show Selected Components
Rearrange Component List
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Edit View Cache
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Toolbar. This is how the user may maintained the views parameters in the Graphic View.
Views are saved in the document file. The dialog offers Renaming, and Deletion of views. The parameters within any view are not affected.
Elbow
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar.
An elbow defines a fitting consisting of a pipe, curved along a circular arc.
An elbow component defines the necessary bend geometry. However, it must be succeeded by another component perusing the elbow exit vector.
The successor component must accommodate the length of pipe required to complete the elbow arc.
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Elbow Entry Vector
Elbow Exit Vector
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Fitting Thickness
Long Radius radio button
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Short Radius radio button
User Defined Radius radio button
Bend Radius
Bend Radius Ratio
Miter Cuts
Bend Arcs
Near Flange check box
Far Flange check box
Flexibility Factor
Angle at which Restraints are Attached
Near End Restraints check box
Mid-arc Restraints check box
Far End Restraints check box
Nominal Pipe Size
Pipe Schedule
Elbow check box
Bend check box
Use the Minimum Length check box
Minimum Length
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
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Smear button
Automatic check box
Number of Bends along the Arc
Elbow Entry Vector
Specifies the distance between the From node and the Tangents Intersection node.
Considering the angle between this vector and the vector of the successor component (bend exit vector), and considering the bend radius.
0 < angle < 180 degrees.
minimum required length = radius * tan(angle/2).
Elbow Help
Elbow Exit Vector
Specifies the distance between the Tangents Intersection node and the end of the successor component (for an elbow successor, it's the successor's tangent intersection node).
This vector must be replicated by the delta vector of the successor.
Considering the angle between the entry vector and this vector, and considering the bend radius.
0 < angle < 180 degrees.
minimum required length = radius * tan(angle/2).
Euro All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Euro Code
Conservative Designation, Alternate Pressure Option, and Over 120 degrees Designation. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the values specified for the first component are used.
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Euro Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
Euro Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses and Creep Strengths are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Euro Temperature Independent
Joint Factor, Allowable Cold Stress, Stress Range Reduction Factor, Joint Coefficient, Occasional Load Factor, Creep Option, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Excitation Direction
The combo box offers the choice of X, Y, or Z. The excitation (by point, not by static equivalent load) should be applied along (or about) that direction.
If the point is associated with skewed directions (Anchor, Restraint, or Release), the global directions (X, Y, or Z) are internally replaced by the corresponding local directions (A, B, or C).
Nodal Excitations.
Excitation Multiplier
Any number resulting from the evaluation of any Excitation Time Function, or the static equivalent load as discussed per the Excitation Point should be multiplied by this value.
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Excitation Point
The combo box allows a selection of the point where the excitation should be applied, or static equivalent loads (thermal, pressure, weight).
If a point number is selected, TRIFLEX® will try to choose (several data points may be assigned the same number). The top priority will be for boundary types (anchor, restraint, release), then component From/To nodes, and lastly, intermediate data points.
If a static equivalent load is selected, TRIFLEX® will assemble the load vectors (translations only) at all the relevant data points and apply the resulting distribution.
Excitation Sets
Excitations are maintained in sets that users may create, save, rename, delete, and load. Only the loaded set (the one in the spreadsheet) is fed to the calculator.
Excitation Time Function Name
The combo box facilitates the selection of a Time Function.
If the function is subsequently removed, an error will be flagged as soon as the analysis is attempted.
The time dependence, qualified by Excitation Times is at the core of the dynamic loading.
Excitation Times
The excitation is clipped in time. It applies to values of time between the Start (arrival) and the Finish (shut-off).
For any time-dependent evaluation in the analytical solution associated with the Excitation Time Function, the Start value is subtracted from the actual time before being plugged into a formula (time shift).
Excitation Type
The combo box offers the choice of Force or Moment (natural boundary conditions), or Displacement or Rotation (kinematic boundary conditions).
Any combination of Excitation Point, Excitation Direction, and Excitation Type is independent of all others.
Excitations for these unique combinations are cumulative, they are simply added up.
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The essence of time history analysis entails modal projections. Hence, applying forces or moments along (or about) a rigid boundary produces nothing. The projection is zero.
Displacement or rotation excitations, applied at rigid boundaries, will be satisfied exactly.
Displacement or rotation excitations, applied at rigid releases (To Node), will be satisfied exactly in terms of relative movement (To Node with respect to the From Node).
Excitation Utilities
The input of nodal excitations may be tedious, especially when a long winding piping is concerned.
Utilities are offered, so that the excitations are generated by calculator modules.
Water Hammer.
Steam Thrust.
Exit
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu.
Each open document (models) goes through a Close.
If there is no "Cancel" selection by the user, TRIFLEX® terminates.
Expansion Joint
An expansion joint is defined by an optional leading pipe, and a system of six connections between the From Node (or the end of the leading pipe) and the To Node.
The calculator doesn't consider any other piece of data (bellows, rods, etc.).
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Length of Bellows
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Length of Bellows
Expansion Joint Directions
Pressure Thrust Area
Expansion Joint Stiffnesses
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Expansion Joint Directions
The concepts of the three mutually perpendicular directions are consistent with the discussion per boundary conditions.
The radio buttons allow the choice between an automatic assignment of Axial-Normal-Guide directions, or a user-defined assignment.
The default axial (A) direction is determined by the Delta Dimensions vector.
The other directions are specified by the angles between the positive sense of a direction and the positive senses of the global (XYZ) axes. Angles must be non-negative and not greater than 180 degrees. The sum of the squares of the cosines must be equal to 1.
Expansion Joint
Expansion Joint Stiffnesses
The six stiffnesses are independent.
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Although the combo box indicates one directional action (+ or -), the option is NOT supported.
Beside the selection of Free or Rigid, the user may enter a number (greater than 1) in the edit box, specifying a finite stiffness.
Export Spreadsheet Data
The command is accessible through an item in the File Menu.
Besides it's available through the Edit Menu, and through the Export Sub-Menu.
The command is enabled if the active view has a spreadsheet. Only this spreadsheet will be exported.
A file dialog appears, so that the user may specify the resultant file name. By the extension, the user specifies the export type (txt, Excel, HTML).
Export Sub-Menu
The submenu is accessible from the Utilities Menu.
Commands
Export Keywords.
Comma Separated Values File (see CSV Format)
PDMS Piping Stress Interface
isoOut File
3D DXF All Components
3D DXF Selected Components
PCF File All Components
PCF File Selected Components
Export Reports to Excel
Export Reports to HTML
Export Spreadsheet Data
relief +
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FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic) Material Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Fiber Reinforced plastic Material Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
FRP Material Name combo box
FRP Material Properties
FRP Material Spreadsheet
FRP Material Name
The data base is ordered by the name.
FRP Material Properties
The temperature-independent properties are handled in edit boxes, outside of the spreadsheet.
FRP Material Spreadsheet
The temperature-dependent properties are maintained in a spreadsheet. The spreadsheet has to be sorted by temperature ascending order. The insert/delete buttons facilitate maintaining such an order.
Fatigue, Fatigues
This dialog maintains fatigue curves. That is, tables that pair number of load cycles vs stress levels.
The dialog is accessible from the piping code compliance tabs (in component dialogs) that have fatigue curve buttons.
Such buttons are enabled only if Modeling Defaults have this feature checked.
The dialog supports naming curves, loading, saving, and editing curves by the spreadsheet.
Modeling Defaults
Feet-Inch-Fraction Separator
The check-box indicates whether English (Imperial) distances use space separators or hyphens.
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File Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
New Model
Open Existing
Close Model
Save
Save As
Save without Output
Autosave Defaults
Save to Previous Version
Export Spreadsheet Data
Recent Files
Component Worksheet Toggle
Printer Setup
Exit
Comprehensive Help Index
Find Node
The dialog is accessible from the Edit Menu. This is how the user may find the cell of a node in a spreadsheet (Tabular Reports View, or Component Worksheet).
The searched node can be specified by a combo box.
A subsequent "Find Next" will cycle through the combo box for another node with the same number.
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Fitting Thickness
By default, the fitting thickness is equal to the pipe thickness. The user may enter a different number.
The fitting thickness is in effect only along the circular section of the elbow component.
The fitting thickness is not used for stiffness/stress calculations. Following the piping codes, it is superseded by the pipe wall thickness.
Flange, Flanges
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar.
A flange defines a fitting consisting of an optional leading pipe, and a flange pair (or a single flange).
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Flange Type combo box
Flange Class combo box
Flange Class combo box
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Flange pairing radio buttons
Stress Intensification Factors
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Flange is facing backward
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Flange Data
The flange length and weight are specified for a single flange.
The flange insulation factor is defined as the weight (in lbs.) per the length (in ft.) of the flange.
Flange
Flange Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Flange Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Flange Size combo box
Flange Pressure Class combo box
Flange Type combo box
Flange Query button
Flange Length and Weight
Flange Facing Backward
The only effect is the way the single flange is rendered graphically.
Comprehensive Help Index
Flange Length and Weight
Once the Query button is pressed, a valid flange is presented. The class may be different from the user's choice. The weight and the length can be picked up for calculations.
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Flange Data Base
Flange Loading
This dialog specifies a single Flange Loading report. There are controls for several reports.
Setup Menu
All data (except data point) is optional and may be left blank.
The data point may belong to any component type, as long as local forces and moments are available.
Flange Pairing
Flanges may be specified as a Single flange, or as a Flange Pair.
Flange Pressure Class
Flanges are classified per the pressure rating. The flange data base can be queried for the combination of size, class, and type.
Flange Query
The button initiates a data base search for the flange matching the size, class, and type specified by the user. The closest match (not necessarily identical) is returned.
Flange Size
The flange data base is ordered by flange sizes. A selection from the combo box is guaranteed to land some matching data base records.
The combination of size, class, and type leads to a unique flange.
Flange Type
Flanges are classified also by type. The data base can be queried by the combination of size, class, and type for a unique flange.
Flanged Elbow
If the User wishes to tell TRIFLEX® that the elbow or bend is to be considered as flanged, these check-boxes should be used.
The "flanged" designation affects only the bend flexibility.
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Friction, Planar
This field specifies the coefficient of friction. A positive value indicates Coulomb's (dry) friction.
Input is enabled if the Y (or B) translational action combo-box is selected for no movement (0), or for one-directional movement (+ or -). This facilitates normal reactions.
The one-directional normal movement can be further qualified by the limit exit box. The limit represents the amount of free movement that distinguishes free from rigid. That is, for a +, and a limit of 2 inches, a movement greater than 2 is free, no movement less than 2 is possible (rigid).
Besides, at least one tangential axis (X, A, Z, C) has to be set for no translational action (N). This facilitates tangent movement and the associated frictional force.
Just re-phrasing the law of friction - For no tangent movement (computationally, a very small number) the frictional force must be less than or equal to the limit (normal reaction multiplied by the coefficient). For non-zero tangent movement, the frictional force must be opposite the direction of the movement, and be equal to the limit.
Ultimate Force (or Moment) Gaps
This is a variation on ultimate force (or moment) gap.
Initially, the stop is locked and the reactive force (or moment) needed to uphold the lock is evaluated. As long as the required locking force (or moment) does not exceed the specified "break", the movement is still zero.
If the required locking force (or moment) exceed the "break", the lock is released, movement is allowed, and a resistive force (or moment) at the "break" level is applied.
The above-mentioned resistive force (or moment) may be applied in a one-directional manner. A negative value for the upper (or lower) limit stiffness indicates that there is no resistance in the positive (or negative) direction. On reaching the limit, the absolute value is of the stiffness is applied.
TRIFLEX® offers variations on this friction slip stop:
Cylindrical or Spherical Gaps.
Boundary Conditions
Gap – Weighted – Gap Correction with Over-Determination
Here’s the spreadsheet of a planar system, where a gap is formed by 4 components.
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TRIFLEX® indicates connectivity errors. So, this is what the log shows:
Because of the presence of gap errors, the Close Gaps button is enabled and selected. A click, or the Enter key lead to the Close Gaps dialog.
The dialog comes with a spreadsheet and with a commentary pane, which are shown separately.
The grey columns cannot be edited. The “Modified length” column is still blank, until the user presses “Calculate”. This button is enabled because the weights are valid (see commentary pane).
Since there are no valid modified lengths (greater than or equal to the minimum values), the OK button is disabled.
The commentary pane explains the “Penalty weight” column.
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Follow the coding sequence and try to close the gaps by preserving the lengths of components 3 and 4.
This selection cannot be accepted because component 5 does not have sufficient length in order to fit the arc of the elbow. Hence, move the huge weight from elbow 3 to elbow 5 and retry.
Now, a feasible solution for gap minimization is available. Press OK. The gap has been corrected.
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Please examine the new delta dimensions.
CaveatsFor the sake of performance, a weak algorithm is used. The algorithm may invalidate good loops for the sake of the bad ones.
A determinate case has still to be developed and shown.
Global Damping Factor
The uncoupled modal equations of motion are modified with a velocity term, using a global (mode-independent) damping factor.
A realistic choice for metallic piping hovers around 0.05.
For a value of zero, the free oscillations are undamped, keeping the amplitude.
For a value less than 1 (sub-critical), the free oscillations are damped (diminishing amplitudes) but still following harmonic time dependence.
For a value equal to 1 (critical), the free oscillations are damped, decaying exponentially in time.
For a greater than 1 (super-critical), the free oscillations are damped (diminishing amplitudes) following hyperbolic time dependence (no periodicity).
The excited (particular) responses are affected too. One should notice that resonance may be expected only in undamped systems.
Graphic Colors
This dialog is associated with the Graphic View.
The dialog is accessible from the Configure Graphic Colors Setup Menu item.
Graphically drawn entities (components, text, etc.) are color coded. A choice of palettes is available for each.
The properties are persistent.
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Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu
This submenu is associated with the Graphic View.
The submenu is accessible from the Setup Menu.
Commands
Continuous View All. Toggle. Keeps rotating when on.
Graphic Viewer Tuning.
Fixed Axis Display. Toggle presence.
Axis Properties.
Restraint Scale.
Node and Component Labels.
Isometric View.
Selection Method.
Transparency Adjustment.
View Wireframe.
Graphic Toolbar
The toolbar is effective only when the Graphic View is active.
Most toolbuttons are toggle switches, showing which option is active by shading a raised/depressed button position.
Select / View. Either an arrow cursor allowing selection by pointing and clicking. Or a "spin" cursor allowing "grab and pull".
Add View. Save the view parameters to the document, for subsequent recall.
Recall View. Replace the current view parameters with those of a previously saved view.
Toggle Axis. Show (or hide) the axes that drag with the system.
Locate Node
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Line / Render. Solid rendering of just the center line.
Node Labels. Displayed or not.
Freeze / Update. Update continuous rendering or not.
Draw Selection. Display only the selected components, or all.
View All. Adjust the viewing area so that the model will fit best any way it rotates.
Orthographic / Perspective. Setting the either at an infinite distance (orthographic) or a finite distance (perspective).
Orient View
Isometric View. Adjust the axes for an isometric view.
Zoom Point. Select a point, pan so that it moves the center.
Zoom Box. Select two opposite corners of the "rubber band" zoom. The viewing area will pan and zoom so that the box fills it best.
Graphic View
This the default view for TRIFLEX® Graphic commands and options are explained in Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu.
General commands are accessible through the Main Menu and the Main Toolbar.
Graphic Toolbar
Right Thumbwheel. Visible when the projection is perspective. Changes the distance between the eye and the piping system.
Left and Bottom Thumbwheels. Visible when the view is not isometric. Rotate the system around the vertical (or horizontal) axes of the view area.
Left click. In select mode. Make the pointed component current.
Left double click. In select mode. Make the pointed component current and start a component in-place editing.
Left click. In select mode. Pop up a small menu (Node labels, Component label, Select component, Edit component).
Arrow keys. In view mode. Pan the view.
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Click here to go to the main index: HELP INDEX of TRIFLEX®.
Graphic Viewer Tuning
This dialog is associated with the Graphic View.
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu.
The user may tune the graphic viewer.
Currently, the tuning of smoothing is ineffective.
For the tuning of the directional headlight, light intensity should be within the zero-one range.
The dialog stays active (unless it is dismissed) while the user inputs other commands, in other menus or toolbars. So that the effect of the current tuning can be assessed.
The Apply button brings the current tuning parameters into effect. Yet, they are not persistent.
The Accept button brings the current tuning parameters into effect, and makes them persistent.
Help Location Sub-Menu
This is a sub-menu of the Help Menu.
Any time the choice is made, it persists.
Disk Files - as shipped with TRIFLEX®.
Help Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
Help Location Sub-Menu
Manual Sub-Menu
About TRIFLEX®
How to Enter a Release Element Component
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar
Some release options share space with the rotational actions spreadsheet. The Hide/Show options button controls visibility.
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Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Release for Spring Hanger Sizing
Pinned Release
Jacketed Release
Release Types
How to Enter a Restraint
To enter a restraint, click on the Restraint tab at the top of the dialog and the Restraint dialog will be presented to the User. Restraints may be entered on the following components: Pipe, Bend/Elbow, Branch Connection, Valve, Flange, Reducer and Joint. To enter a restraint on the piping system, select any of the above noted components and the Restraint tab will be displayed as one of the tabs along the top edge of the component dialogs.
NOTE: A Restraint is not a component in TRIFLEX®. It is an attachment to a piping component that enables an external action to be applied on the piping system.
The restraint conditions are applied at the To Node of the component, or at the designated location along the arc of the elbow component.
Comprehensive Help Index
Most of the restraint data fields and controls are replicated in the Release Component. Whereas the restraint action is absolute (with respect to an inert framework) - the release action is relative (To Node with respect to the From Node)
Restraint-specific data fields and controls:
Component name
Node number combo box
Spring attachment movement
Restraint ripple controls
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General boundary data fields and controls
Image Resolution
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Format Sub-Menu of the Utilities Menu.
The user may specify the image resolution for the generation of BMP file, capturing the image in the Graphic View.
Piping Code
Spring Hanger Sizing
Pressure Effects
Static Iterations
Data Points
Node Numbers
Immersion
Material Properties
Immersion
Piping systems may be immersed. Case in point, subsea piping.
The user may specify the fluid density, used in all buoyancy calculations.
Besides, some calculations (e.g., B31.8 thick-walled) demand knowledge of the hydrostatic pressure exerted at the piping. That's where the "sea level" control become useful: whether the hydrostatic calculation is required, and how should the pipe depth be calculated (difference between Y coordinate and sea level).
Modeling Defaults
Import Sub-Menu
This is a sub-menu of the Utilities Menu.
DOS TRIFLEX Job
TRIFLEX Keyword
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Spreadsheet Input
Comma Separated Values File (see CSV Format)
Piping Component File (PCF)
AutoPLANT
CADPipe
Caesar II
CALMA
CATIA IV (STEP AP 227)
PDMS Stress Interface File
PDS Files
Plant 4D
PlantSpace
Pipenet Import)
AFT Impulse Import)
Import Error Messages
Import Sub-Menu G-Format
This is a sub-menu of the Utilities Menu.
It is used to select the source of the import to TRIFLEX®.
Pipenet Import
Input Mode Sub-Menu
This is a sub-menu in the Components Menu
Placement of subsequent component. Also accessible from the Miscellaneous Toolbar
Insert (prepend current)
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Replace (current)
Append (current)
Input Worksheet Distance Display
The check-box indicates whether the input worksheets displays English (Imperial) distances by decimal feet or by ft-in-fraction.
Insulation Material Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Insulation Material Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Insulation Material Name combo box
Insulation Material Properties
Insulation Material Name
The material name has to match an insulation data base name. Or "User-Specified" where properties must be entered by the user.
All the valid names are presented for selection in the drop-down list. Hence, a drop-down selection is guaranteed to be exact.
Once a material is changed, the properties are recalculated.
Pipe Properties
Insulation Material Name Database
The data base is ordered by the name. The name has to start with a two-letter code. Legacy file formats (that TRIFLEX® can import) support material specification by the code.
Insulation Material Data Base
Insulation Material Properties
The properties are temperature-independent.
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Insulation Weight
Insulation Density and Weight are recalculated any time a material changes (unless it's User-Specified). Insulation weight also depends on pipe diameter and insulation thickness.
Interchange Axes
The dialog is accessible from the Edit Menu. It is enabled if the active document has selected components.
The user may select two axes and a sign.
For all selected components, the axes will be interchanged. A sign flip may take place if so the user chooses.
The changes apply to everything with a direction (such as restraint, wind, uniform load).
Isometric View
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu of the Setup Menu. This is how the user may set the isometric view direction in the Graphic View.
The dialog is also accessible from the Orient View dialog.
An isometric view is defined by a direction with equal inclinations with respect to all axes (measuring the smaller angle).
Hence, the dialog just lets the user select the octant (3 axes, 2 senses each lead to 8 permutations).
Assign axes to the vertices of the Reference Cube.
Location and Style have no effect.
Jacketed Release Element
When one pipe is inserted within another (provided the sizes of both allow that), the relative movements between pipes (at each end) can be determined automatically by TRIFLEX®.
The user needs to specify just the pipe direction.
The choices of "Pinned" or "Jacketed" let TRIFLEX® determine the free/constrained state of the degrees of freedom, letting the user focus on directions.
Release Types
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Joint
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar
The joint component is used to model rigid objects with finite lengths. The calculator models the joint as a pipe with the elastic modulus of 1000 MPSI. In that regard, a joint is similar to a flange or to a valve.
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Near / Mid / Far Coding
Joint Weight and Length
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Joint Weight and Length
The joint weight or length are not looked up in any data base. Zero weight or length are perfectly acceptable. It's the user's responsibility to verify that the values in the edit boxes are desirable.
Joint
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Keyword Export
The dialog is accessible from the Export Sub-Menu.
The dialog is obsolete. All it offers: generation of a keyword file for human reference.
All case-dependent data is picked up from the first case.
The resultant file is not designed to be input to subsequent import.
Length of Bellows
·In this field, the User is to enter the physical length of the bellows. Since the User is to define the delta dimension to the middle of the expansion joint, the delta dimension must be greater than or equal to one half of the length of the bellows. The delta dimension for the component following the expansion joint must also allow for the second half of the bellows.
Limit Stops Detail
A limit stop is defined by the upper and lower limits. For a movement between the limits - the in-between stiffness (FREE is acceptable, it's the default) resists.
When the movement reaches a limit (upper or lower, independently) - the limit stiffness is applied (RIGID, or flexible).
For a rigid limit, the calculator will attempt free/constrained states until reaching either movement within limits (free) or a repulsive reaction (constrained).
For a flexible limit, the calculator will attempt engaged/disengaged states until reaching either movement within limits (disengaged) or beyond limits (engaged).
Users may wish to note that a rigid limit is very similar to a flexible limit with a stiffness of 1e6 (or 1000000) lb/in (just an example). Usually, equilibrium iterations converge much better for the latter than for the former.
TRIFLEX® offers variations on this basic limit stop:
Cylindrical or Spherical Gaps.
Ultimate Force (or Moment) Gaps
Friction Slip Gaps
Boundary Conditions
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Load Case Selection
The load case combo box lists all the load cases in the calculation results. A selection of a load case directs reporting (tabular or graphic) to pick up variables pertaining to the selected case.
Some reports use multiple cases. Still, the load case selection establishes a default, or a base, for multiple case reporting.
Tabular Reports View
Graphic View
Load Cases Spreadsheet
The load cases available for combination are presented in a spreadsheet. Each row presents a load case by a descriptive title and by a multi-level number.
Clicking on a row copies the load case number next to the cursor at the current Combination Box.
Define Load Case Combination
Locate Extreme Values in Code
Minimum and Maximum values are displayed with data point information. The user may find the exact locations where these extreme values take place.
Display Calculation Results
Locate Extreme Values in Calculation
Minimum and Maximum values are displayed with data point information. The user may find the exact locations where these extreme values take place.
Locate Node
The dialog is accessible from the Edit Menu and from the Graphic Toolbar. This is how the user may find the exact location of a node in the Graphic View.
The searched node can be specified by a combo box.
Alternatively, pressing "Locate Current Component" searches for the To Node of the current component.
Alternatively, the center of gravity can be searched disregarding any particular node.
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The user has the option of displaying axis positioned at the located node (or center).
A subsequent "Find Next" will cycle through the combo box for another node with the same number.
Lower Limit Stiffness / Damper Static Stiffness
The edit boxes have two uses: Lower Limit Stiffness per limit stops, or Static Stiffness per dampers.
Main Menu
The main menu is accessible regardless of the active view.
File Menu
Setup Menu
Components Menu
Edit Menu
Calculate Menu
Output Menu
Utilities Menu
Standard Windows Menu
Help Menu
Main Toolbar
The toolbar is attached to the mainframe. Most toolbuttons are enabled regardless of the active view.
New Model
Open Existing
Save
Cut
Copy
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Paste
Help
About TRIFLEX®
Component Worksheet Toggle
Preview
Print Reports
Color Mapped Graphic Display
Show Color Scale
Response Spectrum Analysis Dialog
Time History Analysis Dialog
Basic Calculation - Go/Stop (start/suspend/resume)
Manual Sub-Menu
This is a sub-menu of the Help Menu.
Display a chapter.
Material Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Material Data Base record. Code materials (B31.1, B31.3, B31.5, B31.8, Euro) are not included. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Material Name combo box
Material Properties
Material Spreadsheet
Material Fatigue Curve
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Material Fatigue Curve
This is an index into a collection of fatigue curves. A negative value means no fatigue.
Material Name
The data base is ordered by the name. The name has to start with a two-letter code. Legacy file formats (that TRIFLEX® can import) support material specification by the code.
Material Properties
Material properties may be defined with temperature range.
Users may relax the range globally with just a single check box click.
Users may bypass temperature checks altogether.
Modeling Defaults
Material Properties
The temperature-independent properties are handled in edit boxes, outside of the spreadsheet.
Material Spreadsheet
The temperature-dependent properties are maintained in a spreadsheet. The spreadsheet has to be sorted by temperature ascending order. The insert/delete buttons facilitate maintaining such an order.
Maximum Spacing
The User may specify the maximum spacing between nodes in this field. It's applicable only to the pipe section of the component. If the lengths of the pipe components generated by TRIFLEX® when the number of intermediate nodes is used by TRIFLEX® to generate the intermediate nodes is longer than the length specified by the User in this field, then TRIFLEX® will generate additional node points until the lengths between intermediate node points is less than the length specified by the User in this field.
Miscellaneous Toolbar
The toolbar is accessible regardless of the active view.
The toolbar functionality is also accessible by the Components Menu.
Position subsequent editing
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Current
Previous
Next
First
Last
Input mode
Insert (prepend current)
Replace (current)
Append (current)
Modal Clustering – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA)
Modes are defined as clustered if the relative difference between the frequencies associated with consecutive modes does not exceed a number (Clustering Criterion).
The rationale for this distinction - such modes can be assumed to respond in phase, they synchronized to fully reinforce one another.
Response Spectrum Analysis Control.
Mode of Vector Display
Vector results need some processing before being displayed. The user may select a vector component, or the vector resultant to be displayed. This selection pertains only to color coded displays.
Display Calculation Results
Modeling Defaults
This is the collective name for options that control case-independent and component-independent aspects of TRIFLEX®.
The dialog is accessible from the Setup Menu.
The modeling block has a default state to which it is initialized for new models (see Default State).
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Piping Code
Spring Hanger Sizing
Pressure Effects
Static Iterations
Data Points
Node Numbers
Immersion
Material Properties
Movement (or Load) Spreadsheet
The movement (or load) are specified for translations and rotations independently.
The spreadsheets may be used for limits, where they are case-independent limit stops.
The principal use is for the case-dependent Standard Boundary Stiffness / Movement / Load combinations..
Only one of the movement (or load) columns may be enabled, depending on the rigidity of the stiffness.
The spreadsheets support per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Name
·In this field the User may specify any name that will fit within the field. This name indicator will likely assist the User or other interested parties in identifying the significance of the node. Entry of a name in this field is optional.
Navy All Components
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Navy Code
Conservative Designation must stay the same for all components. TRIFLEX® tries to enforce this rule. On calculation, only the value specified for the first component are used.
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Navy Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
All Components
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
Navy Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Navy Temperature Independent
Allowable Operating Stress, Allowable Cold Stress, Stress Range Reduction Factor, Y Coefficient, Occasional Load Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Near / Mid / Far Coding
Joint. Near means coding to the near (with respect to the From Node) end of the joint. Mid means the joint mid-point. Far (or none) means the far end.
Single Flange. Near means coding to the near (with respect to the From Node) end of the flange. Far (or none) means the far end.
Two Flanges. Near means coding to the near (with respect to the From Node) end of the flange pair. Mid means the mid-point of the flange pair. Far (or none) means the far end.
Welded Valve. Near means coding to the near (with respect to the From Node) end of the valve. Mid means the mid-point of the valve. Far (or none) means the far end.
Flanged Valve. Near means coding to the near (with respect to the From Node) flange. Mid means the mid-point of the valve. Far means the far flange end. None means the far end of the valve assembly.
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TRIFLEX® calculates the distance between the point coded to, and the actual end of the fitting (farthest weld point). The To Node is adjusted by this distance. This adjustment is deducted from the successor component.
The successor component must start with a From Node that is identical to the To Node of the current component (with the Near/Mid/Far adjustment).
If the successor component has Near/Mid/Far coding of its own, both ends have their location adjusted.
Since the To Node is adjusted, it must participate in exactly two components: To Node of the current component, From Node of the successor component.
Delta Dimensions
NEMA Turbine
This dialog specifies a NEMA Steam Turbine report. There are controls for several reports.
Rotating Equipment Reports
The extractor data points are optional.
New File
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu, or a toolbutton in the Main Toolbar.
A new untitled model is created and initialized to defaults. Some persistent values are used in Modeling Defaults and Case Definitions.
Nodal Excitations
The dialog is a tab in the Time History Analysis Dialog.
Nodal excitations define the location, magnitude, direction, and time dependence of a boundary action.
They are the dynamic equivalents of restraints/releases/anchors, just adding the time-dependent attributes.
The excitations are maintained in a spreadsheet. A row in the spreadsheet represents an excitations.
Excitation Sets.
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Excitation Utilities.
Excitation Time Function Name.
Excitation Times.
Excitation Point.
Excitation Direction.
Excitation Multiplier.
Excitation Type.
Node Number and Name
In the Node Number fields, TRIFLEX® displays the To and From Node number for the component being described (on which the restraints are to be applied). The field is grayed out since the node number may not be altered on this dialog.
These numbers can be pre-set by going to "Set Up" and by specifying there Data Points that begin with 5 or 10 and are automatically spaced at intervals of 5 or 10.
In the Name field, the User may specify any name that will fit within the field. This name indicator will likely assist the User or other interested parties in identifying the significance of the node. For example, here can be inserted the name of a Vessel at an Anchor point (Anchor as Vessel), or the name of a specific type of Restraint at a Restraint location. These names will auomatically appear on the Isometric (Iso). Entry of the name in this field is optional.
Node Numbers
Node numbers are generated under several circumstances. Most common, for new components. The node number generation is controlled by the data fields for the Initial Node Number, and the Node Increment.
Node and Component Labels
This dialog is associated with the Graphic View.
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu.
The dialog controls the font and the show/hide/thin-out option for the node labels and the component labels.
Labels don't rotate (or zoom) with the piping.
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The properties are persistent.
Nominal Diameter
The nominal diameter represents a number, related to (but not necessarily equal to) the pipe diameter. The available nominal sizes are shown in the drop-down list.
The data base has a table for each pipe size (nominal diameter). Each table consists of records with different schedules and thicknesses.
Due to code limitations, pipe sizes cannot be modified (in the data base), nor can sizes be added or removed from the data base.
Pipe Data Base
NPD/STOL Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
Specific Material Yield Strength, Weld Joint Factor, Temperature Reduction Factor, Hoop Stress Design Factor, Equivalent Stress Design Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Number of Bend Arcs
Specifies the number of elbows into which the elbow will be split.
Here is the distinction between split bends:
The "Number of Bend Segments" results in calculator-only split. Just having more accurate stress calculations (or soil distribution) along the arc.
This "Number of Bend Arcs" results in independent component pairs. Each elbow-follower pair can be treated independently - tee, restraint, release, etc.
The necessary geometric calculations will be carried out by TRIFLEX® as soon as an OK press is validated.
The input is allowed if the "miter" and the "segments" edit-boxes are blank.
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If the elbow is restrained, only a split into two arcs is feasible. The restraint location determines the split.
Unrestrained elbows can be split to any number of elbow-follower pairs. The split will be even.
Elbow Help
Number of Intermediate Nodes
·If the User enters a number in this field, TRIFLEX® will break the pipe (entry pipe for a fitting component) into one more segment that the number of intermediate nodes specified in this field. In other words, if the User enters a 2 in this field, TRIFLEX® will place two (2) intermediate nodes between the To Node and the From Node – TRIFLEX® will break the pipe into three (3) segments.
Number of Miter Cuts
·If the User wishes to define the entered bend as a Miter Bend, then the User should specify the number of miter cuts in the field provided. TRIFLEX® will automatically determine if the miter bend is closely spaced or widely spaced and the appropriate equations as defined in the piping codes will be used by TRIFLEX®. Note that Restraints may not be specified on a widely spaced miter bend when specifying more than 1 miter point.
Number of Springs
Sharing the load allowing smaller springs. Defaults to 1.
Spring Type
Occasional Load Case
The check box directs operator buttons and editing keystrokes to the occasional Combination Box.
The occasional load case is used for the calculation of occasional stresses. Typically, these are seismic, wind, and dynamic loads.
Define Load Case Combination
Open File
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu, or a toolbutton in the Main Toolbar.
An existing model is searched, and an attempt is made to fill in the model with previously saved data. Data from past revisions of TRIFLEX® is converted to the current revision on the fly.
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Operating Load Case Combined
The check box directs operator buttons and editing keystrokes to the operating Combination Box.
The operating load case is not necessarily associated with any primary/secondary/occasional breakup. It can be used (among other things) for non-ANSI-like piping code reports (typically, equivalent stresses).
Optional Reflections
While components are being copied into the active documents, orientations may be reflected. The user may indicate sign flips for each axis independently on the others. All vectors (even the implied ones) will be adjusted accordingly.
Orient View
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Toolbar. This is how the user may set the view direction in the Graphic View.
View Selection by Direction
View Along a User Defined Vector
Screen Top Direction
Isometric View
Orifice Area
Valves are classified per the orifice area. The valve data base can be queried for the combination of size, class, and type.
Valve Data Base
Output Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
View Analysis Results (tabular)
View Analysis Results - Selected Components (tabular)
Color Mapped Graphic Display
Show Color Scale
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Paste
The dialog is accessible from the Edit Menu or the Main Toolbar.
It sets up options for the pasting of the contents of the clipboard to the active document. The source (previously copied to the clipboard) may well be another document.
Paste to Node (Target)
Attach Node (Source)
Pasted Node Numbers
Optional Reflections
Paste to Node (Target)
This is a node in the active document. Pasting will take this node as a target and attach to it a node from the clipboard. Figuratively, that's where the adhesive glue is applied.
Paste
Pasted Node Numbers
Components are copied from the clipboard to the active document. The user may set whether nodes are renumbered during this operation, or whether they retain the numbers from the clipboard (source).
Piping system connectivity hinges upon node numbers. The user should be very careful as far is the renumbering issue is concerned.
Pinned Release
The choice of pinned release type leads to a release where all translations are rigid (zero relative movement), so are the two rotations that tend to bend the pin. Only the rotation about the pin direction is free.
The user may specify the pin direction and the pin size (for graphics).
How to Enter a Release Element Component
Pipe
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar.
Comprehensive Help Index
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Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Cold Spring
Copies
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Pipe Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Pipe Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Nominal Diameter combo box
Pipe Schedule, Wall Thickness
Pipe Material Name
The material name has to match a material data base name. Or "User-Specified" where properties must be entered by the user.
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The material type controls (generic/code radio buttons, fiber-reinforced-plastic check-box) determine the scope of the material name combo box.
All the valid names are presented for selection in the drop-down list. Hence, a drop-down selection is guaranteed to be exact. Entering a name in the edit box stands a chance only with generic materials.
Code materials can be queried by pressing the corresponding code material button.
Once a material is changed, the properties are recalculated.
Pipe Properties
Pipe Properties
The Pipe Properties tab appears in all component dialogs. The properties are in effect for all the pipe segments in each component type. That is, pipes, bends, branches, lead pipes to fittings. Besides, pipe sizes are used in valve (or flange) data base searches, in buoyancy calculations, etc.
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Nominal Diameter combo box
Pipe Schedule combo box
Corrosion Allowance
Pipe Material Name combo box
Pipe Weight
Poisson's Ratio
Insulation Material Name combo box
Insulation Weight
Content Weight
Property Ripple button
Pipe Schedule
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When the User has entered a nominal diameter, the User may select the desired pipe schedule from the drop down combo list in this field. In the event that the User does not find the desired pipe schedule in the list provided, the User may select “User Specified” and enter the exact pipe wall thickness or can add the desired custom pipe diameter and pipe schedule/wall thickness to the library of pipe diameters by clicking on “Utilities” then “Databases” then “Pipe”.
"User-Specified" is acceptable, then a direct input of the wall thickness is expected. Either way, the inside diameter is calculated.
Pipe Schedule, Wall Thickness
There are several edit boxes with schedule names. TRIFLEX® will use the actual wall thickness for all calculations.
Pipe Data Base
Pipe Size Data Group (Elbows and Bends)
Immediately below the Dimension data groups, the User will find a data group entitled “Pipe Size”. In this data group, the User can see the pipe diameter and schedule as entered on a different dialog for this component. If the User wishes to change either the pipe diameter or the pipe schedule, the User must go to the Pipe Properties tab. The fields in which data can be entered are Pipe Diameter and Pipe Schedule.
Elbow Help
Pipe Size at From Node
The size at the From Node may be greater than the size at the To Node (reducer). Yet the situation could be reversed (expander).
Specifying Pipe Size
Reducer
Pipe Size at To Node
The size at the From Node may be greater than the size at the To Node (reducer). Yet the situation could be reversed (expander).
Pipe Weight
Pipe Density and Weight are recalculated any time a material changes (unless it's User-Specified). Pipe weight also depends on pipe diameter and thickness.
Pipenet Coordinates
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The user must select the Pipenet coordinate axes corresponding to TRIFLEX® XYZ. It takes knowledge of the way the model is presented to Pipenet.
Pipenet Import.
Pipenet Forces
TRIFLEX® parses the force file and lists the force tables. Each table (row in a list box) represents a Pipenet component, a start time and an end time.
The user may add a force to TRIFLEX® by selecting a row, and assigning a data point using the node combo box.
Pipenet Coordinates.
Pipenet Import
The dialog drives generation of forces and times (see Nodal Excitations) according to a Pipenet Force File.
It is driven from the Import Sub-Menu. The command is enabled if modal results are available for the active document.
Pipenet Forces.
Piping Code
The Piping Code is specified by a combo box selection. Stress intensification factors and other calculations depend on this specification.
TRIFLEX® permits changes and issues the warning that material properties would rather be re-evaluated. Components with code materials (that is, adhering to the official code material data base) should be reconsidered.
Users may specify maximum stress intensification (in- and out-of-plane) even if not mandated by the piping code.
Stress intensification factors can be calculated automatically (per the code requirements and the component data), or entered manually by the user. The check box determining the action (in the component dialog) may default to automatic (checked) or manual (unchecked).
The concept of displacement stress range (ANSI-like piping codes) may be interpreted as the point-by-point maximum difference among operating cases. That is, if the collection of loading conditions are visualized as a polygon of states, all the possible sides and diagonals are considered for the sake of the greatest distance.
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Fatigue analysis may be specified, per the piping code requirements.
Modeling Defaults
Points Distance
The dialog is accessible from the Utilities Menu.
The command is enabled if the active document is not empty.
The user selects the points by combo boxes.
Alternatively, there are buttons associating the points with the current component.
The coordinates and the delta dimensions are just read-outs.
Poisson's Ratio
Restating the definition: in a tension test of a prismatic bar, it's the ratio between the lateral contraction (strain) and the axial tension (strain).
The relationship between the elastic, shear, and bulk moduli leads to the condition -1 < ratio < 0.5.
The ratio affects shear stiffnesses (including torsion) and pressure loads. Engineering laboratory experiments demonstrate that one must expect a 10% measurement error for Poisson's ratio.
Polish Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
All specification and controls may change value from one component to the next.
Pressure Effects
TRIFLEX® treats pipes and bends as capped sequences. Thus, pressurized pipes may have to elongate (while the inside area may have to contract). Besides, pressurized bends may have to flatten, or stiffen.
The user has options which of these effects should be applied by the calculator.
Pressure loads participate in operating calculations. However, ANSI-like piping code calculations include the resolution of operating loads into primary (usually thermal), secondary (usually weight), and occasional loads. The user has options where pressure loads will be resolved.
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Pressure Relief Valve
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar.
A pressure relief valve defines a fitting consisting of an optional leading pipe, two perpendicular legs (inlet, exit), and a valve, with or without flanges.
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Pressure Relief Valve Type combo box
Valve Type combo box
Pressure Relief Valve Rating combo box
Pressure Relief Valve Weight and dimensions
Flange Type combo box
Flange Class combo box
Flange Class combo box
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
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Show Transparent check box
Pressure Relief Valve Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Pressure Relief Valve Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Pressure Relief Valve Type combo box
Valve Size combo box
Valve Pressure Class combo box
Orifice Area combo box
Valve Query button
Valve Length and Weight
Pressure Relief Valve Rating
Pressure Relief Valves are classified by pressure rating. The combo box helps the user selecting the valve.
Pressure Relief Valve
Pressure Relief Valve Weight and Dimensions
The valve length, dimensions (inlet and exit), and weight are specified for non-flanged portion of the valve.
The valve insulation factor is defined as the weight (in lbs.) per the length (in ft.) of the valve.
Flange
Pressure Thrust Area
Pressure thrust represents the compensation for the difference between the cross sectional area of the bellows, as compared to the cross sectional areas of the adjoining fittings.
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The calculator applies a pair of equal and opposite forces along the axial direction, aligned in order to elongate the bellows.
The Area has to be positive. Multiplied by the pressure, it yields the above mentioned force.
The feature is enabled or disabled, depending on the absence or presence of tie rods.
Expansion Joint
Primary Load Case
The check box directs operator buttons and editing keystrokes to the primary Combination Box.
The primary load case is used for the calculation of sustained stresses. Typically, these are pressure, weight, and mechanical loads.
Define Load Case Combination
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu, or a toolbutton in the Main Toolbar.
The active view will be printed. The command is disabled in the graphic view.
Printer Setup
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu.
Process Data
Process data (temperature, pressure) are specified mostly by the case dependent spreadsheet.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
The user has access to a variety of Property Ripple options.
Project (Title)
In this field, the User should enter a descriptive title for the piping system being modeled. This line of title will appear at the top of every page of output.
Project Account No.
In this field, the User may enter a project account number, if desired.
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Project Client
Identify the client by name.
Project Cost Code
In this field, the User may enter a project cost code, if desired.
Project Definitions
This dialog maintains the project definitions. General information about the piping project.
Setup Menu
Data fields and controls follow
Project Name
Project Account No.
Project Cost Code
Engineer's Name/Initials
Engineer's Employee No.
Client's Name
Plant's Name
Plant's Location
Current Line Num.
OK Button
Cancel Button
Project Engineer
Identify the project engineer. Name (initials), employee number.
Project Plant
Identify the plant by name, location, line number.
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Recall View
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Toolbar. This is how the user may recall the view parameters in the Graphic View.
Views are recalled from the document file.
Recent Files
The File Menu maintains a list of the most recent files. The list is persistent.
A selection of such a menu item triggers opening the file.
Reducer
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar
A reducer defines a fitting that connects two fittings of different sizes. The connected fittings must have the same direction (determined by the fittings' delta dimensions).
The calculator implements the reducer as a pipe with the average outer diameter and wall thickness (of both ends).
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Entry Pipe Size
Entry Wall Thickness
Exit Pipe Size
Exit Wall Thickness
Reducer Type radio buttons
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
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Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Reducer Type
Basic reducer geometry involves three components: Predecessor, Reducer, Successor.
The To Node of the predecessor is the same as the From Node of the reducer.
The To Node of the reducer is the same as the From Node of the successor.
If the three delta vectors are parallel, the reducer is Concentric.
If the predecessor delta vector and the successor delta vector are not parallel, the reducer is invalid.
Hence, a non-concentric reducer define a plane. For the reducer to qualify as a valid Eccentric one, the distance between the predecessor and successor delta vectors must be equal to the difference between the outer radii. Only then, the concept of the "flat size" is valid.
Eccentric reducers should be modelled carefully. The beam theory calculation introduces extraneous in-plane bending moments into lines with substantial axial loads.
Reducer
Reference Cube
It's a cube aligned the global XYZ axes.
The dialog allows the association of a vertex with an axis (X, Y, or Z) and a sense (+, or -). The opposite vertex is updated automatically.
Isometric View
Release Element Types
The user may have full control over the six degrees of freedom by selecting "User Defined".
Simpler choices of totally rigid (or free) are available.
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The choices of "Pinned" or "Jacketed" let TRIFLEX® determine the free/constrained state of the degrees of freedom, letting the user focus on directions.
Pinned Release
Jacketed Release
How to Enter a Release Element Component
Release for Spring Hanger Sizing
Spring hanger sizing starts with a dead weight analysis in search of the installed loads. Rigid releases can be relaxed for that analysis, so that the distribution of the installed loads yields zero reactions at such releases. This may be desirable at some nozzle connections.
The user has the option of releasing all the six degrees of freedom for the dead weight analysis.
The user has the option of releasing just the Y (or B) degree of freedom for the dead weight analysis.
Renumber Nodes
The dialog is accessible from the Edit Menu. The command is enabled if there are selected components.
Node numbers, appearing in selected components, will be renumbered consistently, in all their instances.
Report Controls
Data is saved to the model only when OK is pressed.
Dialog data does not persist unless Update is pressed. Even then, it's just in a temporary image of the current report record. It takes an OK to make it last.
Navigate records by the previous/next buttons.
Use the insert/delete buttons for more (or less) reports.
Report Selection
This dialog is accessible from the "Export Reports to Excel" (or to HTML) menu items, of the Export Sub-Menu (Utilities Menu).
Besides, it is accessible from the "Print Output" tool-button (Main Toolbar).
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This is how the user may select several reports and send them as a batch to processing (convert reports to an Excel book, convert reports to an HTML page, print a batch of reports).
All the report types that are supportable by the data are maintained in a spreadsheet. Each load case is presented by a column, and each report type is presented by a row. Each feasible report is shown as a cell with a checkbox.
Beyond selecting / deselecting reports by their respective checkboxes, there are buttons with the global effects of select / clear / toggle all checkboxes at once.
Moreover, each row or column have a combo box with the choice of check / clear / toggle the entire row (or column).
Report Types Combo Box
The drop-down list contains the report types available for the selected load case. The availability may change from load case to the next. The sheet tabs (the bottom of the view) display names that indicate the load case and the type.
tabular reports view.
Full Report. Include all subsequent types including stresses. Available.
Center of Gravity. Only for the first case.
Piping System Geometry. Dimensions and sizes. Available for the base cases (usually operating).
Piping System Properties. Temperature and pressure related. Available for the base cases (usually operating).
Piping System Weights. Pipe and fitting weights. Available for the base cases (usually operating).
Piping System Uniform Loads. Available for the base cases (usually operating).
Piping System Wind Loads. Available for the base cases with wind (usually operating).
Anchor Description. Available for the base cases (usually operating), with anchors.
Anchor Initial Movements. Available for the base cases (usually operating), with anchors.
Expansion Joint Description. Available for the base cases (usually operating), with expansion joints (and releases).
Restraint Description. Available for the base cases (usually operating), with restraints (and releases).
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Axis Descriptions. Available for the base cases (usually operating), with skewed anchors, or other boundaries.
Piping System Movements. Global axes. Available for all non-trivial cases.
Local Movements. Local axes. Available for all non-trivial cases.
Anchor Movements. Global axes. Available for all cases, with anchors.
Restraint Movements. Global axes. Available for all cases, with restraints (absolute) or releases (relative).
Local Restraint Movements. Local axes. Available for all cases, with restraints (absolute) or releases (relative).
Expansion Joint Defls. & Rots. (Deflections and Rotations). Global axes. Available for all cases, with expansion joints or releases, relative.
System Forces and Moments. Global axes. Available for all cases, with forces.
Local Forces and Moments. LNG or In/Out of plane axes. Available for all cases, with pipes, elbows, branches. Used in stress calculations.
Anchor Forces and Moments. Global axes. Available for all cases, with anchors.
Restraint Forces and Moments. Global axes. Available for all cases, with restraints or releases.
Local Restraint Forces and Moments. Local axes. Available for all cases, with restraints or releases.
System Stresses - this Load Case. Non-code. Depend on local forces and moments.
Structural Member Forces and Moments. Local axes. Available for all cases, with structural members.
Structural Member Stresses. At the Stress Points. Available for all cases, with structural members.
Structural Member Capacity. Available for all cases, with structural members.
Maximum System Value. Available for all cases.
Modal Frequencies. Available for modal base cases.
Modal Participation Factors. Available for response spectrum analysis combined cases.
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Combined Case Definition. Available for combined cases.
Piping Code Specification. Available for static base cases resolved into primary-secondary-occasional (ANSI-like codes), or else (other codes).
Piping Code Report. Available for static base cases resolved into primary-secondary-occasional (ANSI-like codes), or else (other codes).
API-610 Report. Available for static base cases, with API610 Pump Data.
API-617 Report. Available for static base cases, with API617 Compressor Data.
NEMA Report. Available for static base cases, with NEMA Turbine Data.
Rotating Equipment Report. Available for static base cases, with Rotating Equipment Data.
Flange Loading Report. Available for static base cases, with Flange Loading Data.
Spring Hanger Report. Available for static base cases, with checked Spring Type.
Response Spectrum Analysis Control
The dialog is a tab in the Response Spectrum Analysis Dialog.
The user may specify 1-3 directions along with the corresponding spectral actions.
Besides, rules for the inter-spectral (how the directional actions interact) and inter-modal (how the modal responses interact within a spectrum) preprocessing has to be selected.
Spectral Combination Method.
Modal Clustering.
Combined Report.
Zero Period Acceleration.
Spectrum Data.
Spectrum Direction.
Response Spectrum Final Processing.
Response Spectrum Analysis Dialog
The dialog is accessible from the Setup Menu.
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Response Spectrum Final Processing
Response spectrum analysis results are stored and maintained in a dedicated case, divided into spectral load cases (if the Spectral Combination Method permits), and a combined load case.
These results may be used to augment static cases. The user has control over these by a case-dependent spreadsheet.
Each column represents a case that could receive response spectrum analysis results in its occasional load cases.
The user may specify how these results should modify the case occasional results.
The spreadsheet support per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Response Spectrum Analysis Control.
Restraint Attachment Point on Bend Centerline
An elbow can be restrained. The location along the arc can be specified by using:
Near check-box, for a small distance beyond the beginning of the arc,
Mid check-box, at mid-arc,
Far check-box, for a small distance ahead off the end of the arc,
Angle (and unchecked boxes), an angular position along the arc.
Restraint Scale
This dialog is associated with the Graphic View.
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu.
The dialog controls the display of normal restraints, spring hangers, and soil interactions.
The dialog controls the display of normal restraints, spring hangers, and soil interactions.
For each, size and visibility are under user control.
The properties are persistent.
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Rippling Example
The User has modeled 6” schedule 40 pipe from Node No. 5 to Node No. 30 and the User wishes to change the 6” schedule 40 pipe from Node No. 15 to Node No. 30 to 12” schedule 30 pipe. The User should replace the 6” schedule 40 pipe defined on the component From 15 - To 20 with a 12” schedule 30 pipe, and then click on the Ripple Size button at the bottom of the Pipe Property dialog.
TRIFLEX® will change the 6” schedule 40 pipe on Node No. 15 – 20, 20 - 25 and 25 – 30 to be 12” schedule 30 pipe. TRIFLEX® will not change the 6” schedule 40 pipe on Node No. 55 – 60, and 60 – 65. (Note: It is not in an unbroken series of components from the original Node No. 30.)
Rippling Property Changes
Rippling applies to piping models that have already been built. In other words, rippling applies where properties have already been defined and where the User wants to change the original value to a different value on one piping component as well as a number of subsequent components. In an existing TRIFLEX® piping model, a User can elect to change a specific piping property on any component and then instruct TRIFLEX® to change all subsequent occurrences of the originally specified property that are in an unbroken series from that point forward in the piping model. (See also “Rippling Example ”.)
Alternatively, the sequence of components into which the change should ripple may be limited to selected components.)
Besides, the sequence of components into which the change should ripple may be specified by a component number. The number may well be greater than the total number of components, causing TRIFLEX® to take the range through the last component.)
Rotating Equipment
This dialog specifies a per-vendor rotating equipment report, having room for 5 data points. There are controls for several reports.
Rotating Equipment Reports
The values for force and moment allowables are usually picked up from vendors' catalogues.
Rotating Equipment Reports
Accessed from the Setup Menu.
API610 Pump
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NEMA Turbine
API617 Compressor
Rotating Equipment
Rotational Stiffnesses
The User may enter the desired rotational stiffness about the Axial direction (torsion about the axis of the expansion joint) and about the Lateral directions (bending about the two perpendicular axes). The first of the two lateral rotational stiffnesses will be the one about the axis oriented most vertically and the second of the two lateral rotational stiffnesses will be the one about the axis oriented most horizontally. However, if the expansion joint is oriented along the Y axis, then the three values must be the axial (about the Y axis), the lateral about the X axis second, and the lateral about the Z axis third.
To define the desired rotational stiffness about each of the three axes, the User can select Free or Rigid from the drop down combo list in each of the fields or enter a numerical value in any of these fields.
SNIP Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
All specification and controls may change value from one component to the next.
SPC 1 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Comprehensive Help Index
Temperature Independent
Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
Property Ripple button
SPC 1 Temperature Dependent spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
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SPC 1 Code
SPC 1 Temperature Independent
Strength Factors for Welds, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
SPC 2 Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
SPC 2 Temperature Dependent Spreadsheet
The Hot Allowable Stresses are temperature dependent. They are maintained in a case-dependent spreadsheet. The case temperature (from the process data) and the material are used for the calculation of the default allowables.
The spreadsheet supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
SPC 2 Code
SPC 2 Temperature Independent
Alternate Switches, Ultimate Tensile Strength, Allowable Cols Stress, Stress Range Reduction Factor, Strength Factors for Welds, Occasional Load Factor, and Mill Tolerance, may change value from one component to the next.
Save
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu, or a toolbutton in the Main Toolbar.
The model (active document) is saved to file. It stays open.
Save As
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu.
The model (active document) is saved to file, letting the user assign a name. It stays open and assumes the name specified for saving.
Save View
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Toolbar. This is how the user may save the view parameters in the Graphic View.
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Views are named by the users and they are saved to the document file.
Save to Previous Version
This sub-menu is accessible through in item in the File Menu. The user should select the target past version.
The model (active document) is saved to file, per the selected past version, letting the user assign a name.
Data conversions are designed so that the saved file can be open by a past version of TRIFLEX® (and by the current version).
The model stays open, with the data per the current version.
Save without Output
The command is accessible through in item in the File Menu.
The model (active document) is saved to file, letting the user assign a name. Calculation results are not saved. It stays open and assumes the name specified for saving.
Screen Top Direction
An image may rotate about the view vector. The user may specify which global axis has to project along the positive vertical direction. Moreover, the user may specify the sign (sense) of the axis facing up.
TRIFLEX® checks so that this direction is not parallel to the view vector.
Orient View
Secondary Load Case
The check box directs operator buttons and editing keystrokes to the secondary Combination Box.
The secondary load case is used for the calculation of expansion (displacement stresses). Typically, these are thermal loads, and imposed movements.
Define Load Case Combination
Segment Selection
The user may highlight segments in the left spreadsheet by combinations of clicks, control, and shift keys. The right-arrow button will enforce this selection within the right spreadsheet.
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Selections may be undone (left-arrow) or inverted (switch).
Water Hammer.
Seismic
Occasional seismic loads can be processed as static equivalents. This accomplished by a spreadsheet of case-dependent gravity factors. Each representing a scaled weight load, applied along the respective global axis.
The spreadsheets support per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
This dialog is accessible from the Setup Menu.
Selection Method
This dialog is associated with the Graphic View.
The dialog is accessible from the Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu.
The dialog controls the method by which selected components are distinguished.
The method is persistent.
Selection Sets
The dialog is accessible from the Edit Menu.
Selection sets group and manage component selection as handled by other Edit Menu items. Such selection are manipulated within the unnamed active selection set.
By using this dialog, users may create selection sets and assign the currently selected components as set members (logically, all other components are non-members).
Then, users may create or modify sets, populating them with logical combinations of other sets.
Valid sets are represented by rows in the spreadsheet. Usually, a valid name (doesn't include logical operator characters) defines a set. Upon creation, the members of the current set (currently selected components) become also members of the newly created set. Trimmed off leading/trailing blanks. Case sensitive. Default ascending sorting.
Created – when first named. Optional sorting.
Modified – most recently, including name changes, expansion, recalculation. Optional sorting.
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Accessed – most recently, used in a definition. Optional sorting.
Components – number of set members.
Definition – set operations resulting in the set (blank for just the currently selected components). Names and operators entered by buttons or by plain text editing.
For a set to be operated upon by the buttons, it has to be valid, and the row should be highlighted.
The "Make Current" button changes the selection state of all components to reflect the change in the current set. The name of the current set is displayed.
The "Expand" button expands the non-blank definition into a collection of components, dissociated from other sets. Then blank the definition.
Recalculate dependants – all sets accessing the highlighted in their definitions (descendants). The highlighted set is an ancestor of those.
Delete – eliminate from all definitions. Upon recalculation, a deletion is replaced by an all-false (i.e., non-members) set.
Copy name – into a clipboard.
Insert name – from the clipboard, into the current cursor position at the definition.
( - start grouping expressions. ) – end grouping expressions.
Union | - binary, selecting a component if selected by either (inclusive).
Intersection & - binary, selecting a component if selected by both.
Exclusive ^ - binary, selecting a component if selected just by one.
Inversion ! – unary, selecting the de-selected and vice versa.
self-reference (direct or indirect) can’t hold.
Setup Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
Project Definitions
Edit the current project notes.
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Save Project Settings.
Restore Project Settings.
Input Units
Output Units
Modeling Defaults
Case Definitions
Seismic
Cyclic Loading
Rotating Equipment Reports
Flange Loading
Modal Analysis
Response Spectrum Analysis Dialog
Time History Analysis Dialog
Configure Graphics Colors
Restore Defaults Colors
Graphic Preferences Sub-Menu
Set Report Font
Set Column Header File Location
All specification and controls may change value from one component to the next.
Shape Edit
The shape is defined by the vertices of a polygon. Once the button is pressed, a dialog with a spread-sheet opens up. The shape assumes the polygon created by connecting each pair of consecutive points, by the spread-sheet order.
TRIFLEX® calculates the line integrals for the area and the moments, and then the derived properties.
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Structural Member Data Base
Show Transparent
A component may be graphically displayed as transparent. There are graphics options where the user may define the reduced opacity for such component display.
This feature is highly useful when coding a Jacketed Pipe or Complex Piping Systems.
Simulation Time and Interval
The calculation basically evaluates the analytical solution of the modal equations of motion.
The calculation is carried out until a final time value is reached. This final time is a simulation parameter that control the cost and the detail of the calculations.
Periodically, solution values for the modal displacements and velocities are saved to file. The time increment for this is also a simulation parameter that control the cost and the detail of the calculations.
Users have options with respect to the final time and the time interval. TRIFLEX® may be instructed to accept the user-entered values for these.
On the other hand, TRIFLEX® may be instructed to estimate modal responses and consequently optimize final time and interval that offer sufficient detail and minimize cost.
Moreover, "Enable Parameter Revision" means that the calculator will open the Time Simulation Parameters dialog, presenting its low-cost optimization as a recommendation, yet letting the user making an informed choice in that matter.
Time History Calculation.
Snapshots Generation Defaults
The calculation ends up with saved solutions for the modal equations of motion. The potential detail of this saved solution depends on the Simulation Time and Interval.
The Start Time, End Time, and Interval that provide the most detail are presented as Snapshot Generation Defaults.
Users cannot obtain finer details unless they redefine the simulation times and re-execute the analysis.
Snapshots Generation Parameters
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As calculation results become available, users may control the extent and the frequency of the generated snapshots.
A snapshot takes the same resources needed for a static load case. However, no benefit can be derived from time history analysis without consulting the snapshots.
The starting and ending times don't have to meet strict comparison with any simulation time. They are just brackets.
The interval is controlled by an integer, how many should skipped. Zero means nothing will be skipped.
Soil Loads and Resistance
The data fields and controls in this dialog result in: distributed vertical load, coefficient of axial fiction, four tables of movement-stiffness pairs.
The distributed load is lumped at the component (or generated pipe) ends before being presented to the calculator.
A positive coefficient of friction entails additional axial resistance. It is calculated in a manner compatible with Coulomb's law of friction. In this case, the normal force is the resultant of the lateral and transverse soil reactions and the additional above-mentioned distributed load. The axial frictional force must not exceed the limit (normal multiplied by the coefficient) and opposite to the non-zero axial movement. For a zero (or very small) axial movement, the axial frictional force may be less than the limit.
For the movement-stiffness tables - the lateral direction is perpendicular to the axial and chosen in the horizontal plane (when possible), the transverse direction is perpendicular to both, the up-down distinction is supported.
The tables allow for stiffening/softening of the soil. The stiffness is maintained in terms of "stiffness per unit length of pipe". Here's a discussion units-neutral example.
Movement Stiffness
1 1000
3 500
4 200
If the movement value is less than or equal to 1, the stiffness value is 1000.
If the movement value is greater than 1 and less than or equal to 3, the stiffness value is 500.
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If the movement value is greater than 3 and less than or equal to 4, the stiffness value is 200.
If the movement value is greater than 4, the stiffness value is 0.
The table has to conform to ascending movements order.
The stiffness is lumped at the component (or generated pipe) ends before being presented to the calculator. Each such stiffness is interpreted as the ratio between an increment of resistance (force) and an increment of movement in any of the above-mentioned ranges.
Use method specified in ASME B31.1 Radio Button enables the data fields by which stiffnesses and loads are generated. The calculation closely follows the discussion in Appendix VII of B31.1 piping code.
User Defined Loads and Stiffnesses Radio Button enables the data fields of the friction, load, and stiffness tables.
Ripple controls
Specifying Pipe Size
The user has the choice of the combo box from which the pipe size is selected. The selection of a size determines the Outer Diameter.
The selection of "User-Specified" allows unfettered data entry of the Outer Diameter.
Specifying Wall Thickness
The user has the choice of the combo box from which the pipe schedule is selected. The selection of a schedule determines the Thickness.
The selection of "User-Specified" allows unfettered data entry of the Thickness.
Spectral Combination Method – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA)
Response spectrum analysis is based upon combinations.
Initially, modal responses are calculated, for each spectrum independently. Then, these responses are combined methodically.
The following terms define aspects of the combination procedure:
AL (Algebraic) - responses are added up across modes or across spectra taking the algebraic signs into account.
A (Absolute) - responses are added up across modes or across spectra by their absolute values.
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S (SRSS) - responses are added up across modes or across spectra by calculating the Square Root of the Sum of their Squares.
C (Clustered) - only across modes. First Clustered modes are marked. Their responses algebraically combined as if they were fused into one. Then, the inter-modal combinations goes on by the SRSS method.
N (Navy) - look it up in the dynamics chapter.
NRC - look it up in the dynamics chapter of the manual.
Response Spectrum Analysis Control.
Spectrum Data – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA)
Spectrum data boils down to a table of value pairs. A period (or the equivalent frequency) of an oscillator, paired with the corresponding response (displacement, velocity, or acceleration).
Such table, independently defined for each spectrum, may be either a User-Specified Spectrum Table or generated according to Newmark's or Housner's algorithms.
Table generation per Newmark or Housner is controlled by damping, ground acceleration, and soil amplification.
The tables are interpolated during the calculation. The user has the choice between linear and logarithmic interpolations.
Spectrum Direction – Response Spectrum Analysis (RSA)
Spectral actions must be applied in their respective directions.
The three factor edit boxes for each spectrum define a vector (blanks are interpreted as zeroes). Zero vectors are ignored. Non-zero vectors are checked for orthogonality.
The factors are treated as such. Non-unity factors amount to scaling the spectrum data.
Spread Print Options
The dialog sets spreadsheet print options. It is invoked by print commands when a spreadsheet is concerned (Tabular Reports View).
Print commands appear in the File Menu.
Print Reports commands appear in the Utilities Menu.
Spring Attachment Movement
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A spring hanger is attached to the piping system at one end and to an attachment point at the other end. This field prescribes the movement along the Y (or B) axis of that attachment point. On sizing, TRIFLEX® will calculate the relative movement between the ends of the spring (that is, elongation).
The requirement of prescribed movement renders this feature obsolete. Attachments to flexible supports (structural, or piping) are best handled by a release component between the ends of the spring hanger. Thus, no arbitrarily prescribed movement needs to be assumed.
Spring Type check boxes
Spring Hanger Sizing
Spring hanger sizing entails a dead weight analysis (obtaining installed loads), an operating analysis (obtaining travel), and a spring catalog lookup.
The "Manufacturer" combo box allows the specification of the catalog to be looked up.
The choice of the extent of the available travel lets the user balance considerations spring size and service range.
The user may insist on sizing springs for all positive loads, even if that results in very small springs.
Modeling Defaults
Spring Load
The installed load for a pre-loaded existing spring.
Spring Type
Spring Position
Hanger or Support, for a better graphic display.
Boundary Conditions
Spring Rate
The User should enter the spring rate for the spring hanger only when the existing installed load is known. If the installed load is unknown, the User should enter the operating load with a spring rate of 1.
Spring Type
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The check-boxes select "sizing" vs "existing".
An existing spring has its rate and installed load fixed and specified.
Sizing indicates that the calculator should calculate the installed load and the operating movement, then look up a spring. The resultant spring depends on the loading conditions throughout the piping.
Boundary Conditions
Comprehensive Help Index
General boundary data fields and controls
Directions Detail button
Friction
Boundary Action combo boxes
Limit Stop Multiplicity combo boxes
Break Force (or Moment)
Stiffness
Spring Type check boxes
Spring Position radio buttons
Spring Variation
Number of Springs
Spring Load
Spring Rate
Lower Limit Stiffness
Upper Limit Stiffness
Boundaries Load (or Movement) spreadsheets
Standard Boundary Detail
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The stiffness may be specified as FREE, RIGID, or a number (scientific notation is accepted).
Rigid stiffness permits only movements, not loads. This is a law of mechanics.
Non-rigid stiffness permits only loads, not prescribed movements. This is a law of mechanics.
TRIFLEX® enforces the above-mentioned rules.
Free stiffness with zero loads still counts as a restraint, although it has no mechanical effect.
Movements and loads are case-dependent. They are handled in spreadsheets. The stiffness is case-independent.
Boundary Conditions
Static Iterations
Boundary conditions may have non-linear aspects, where iterative calculations are required in order to obtain a solution where the boundary conditions are satisfied.
These equilibrium iterations are not guaranteed to converge. The user may limit the number of iterations, so that calculation time does not go out of hand.
Besides, friction requires equality between the frictional resistive force and the theoretical limit. This requirement is relaxed in terms of user controlled tolerance. That is, the relative difference between the frictional force and the limit.
Modeling Defaults
Steam Thrust
The dialog sets up the generation of nodal excitations resulting from steam thrust in a steam header / branch relief configuration.
Excitation Utilities.
Stress Display
Stress results need some processing before being displayed. The user may select between absolute and signed values. Display Calculation Results
Stress Intensification Factors (SIF)
Stress intensification is relevant for header/branch intersections, or for curved pipes (along the arc, where a flexibility factor is added into the bargain).
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There is a choice between Automatic or manual specification, controlled by the "Automatic" check-box.
In automatic mode (all the relevant components must have this box checked), the factors are calculated per the piping code. Any change that is relevant to stress intensification triggers a recalculation with an immediate feed-back.
In manual mode (the check-box is unchecked), whatever the user inputs stays there. Data fields are enabled (or disabled) per the piping code.
From Node factors are enabled only if the component is coded from the tee (header/branch intersection).
To Node factors are enabled only if the pipe (no fitting) is coded into the tee (header/branch intersection). Or, representing the arc portion of the elbow.
Having entered the factors manually, the user may copy them to the other intersecting components by pressing the "Smear" button.
Structural Cross Sectional Properties
Cross sectional properties are specified with respect to the centroidal and principal B-C axes. That is, the axes intersect at the centroid (first moments are zeroes). The moments of inertia are principal (mixed moment of inertia is zero).
The IB and IC moments of inertia define bending stiffnesses. JO represents the torsional stiffness. The cross sectional area represents the axial stiffness.
The orientation of the principal B axis is specified with respect to the Most Normal (with respect to axial) Upper.
The shear distribution factors determine the shear flexibility, as a fraction of the bending flexibility, used to construct the structural flexibility matrix.
Structural Member
Structural Member
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar.
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
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Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Structural Cross Sectional Properties
Structural Shape and Designation
Structural Swing Arm
Copies
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Structural Member Data Base
This dialog accesses a single Structural Member Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Structural Shape combo box
Cross Sectional Properties
Shape Edit button
Structural Member Stress Points
The dialog is accessible from the Utilities Menu.
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The command is enabled if the active document has some structural members.
Besides, the dialog may be driven by right-clicking a structural member cell in the Tabular Reports View.
The user can do only one thing, select the shape. Consequently, a drawing with the stress points will appear. These points are referred too in some related (to structural members) tabular reports.
Structural Shape
The data base is ordered by shape designations. Shapes may be added and modified.
Structural Member Data Base
Structural Shape and Designation
The structural shape and designation (size) are specified by combo box selections. The combo boxes are populated with entries found in the Structural Member Data Base.
The selection fills in the Structural Cross Sectional Properties.
Structural Swing Arm
A swing is defined as a mode of movement of a structural members such that the length or the curvature barely change. That is, very little in terms of axial strain or transverse bending. Rotation, however, is certainly not excluded.
Actually, this mode of motion can be realized if the structural member is pinned, or joined in a manner that doesn't transmit to it bending moments from adjacent structural elements. That means that the member is designed to resist axial loads, but to offer very little resistant to transverse loads. Hangers come to mind. Chains are even more extreme.
The check box indicates an option in the static equilibrium iterations, where the structural member stiffness and loads are recalculated per the displaced member geometry (orientations).
System of Units
In this field, a drop down combo list is provided for the User to click on and select the desired system of units. System of Units available are English (Imperial), SI Metric, MKS Metric, IUI Metric.
The selected units are applied to all types of variables. The specific combo boxes are disabled, and just list whatever unit will be applied to each type.
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Tabular Reports View
All calculation results are tabulated in this view. Invoked from the Output Menu. Graphic commands and options are disabled
General commands are accessible through the Main Menu and the Main Toolbar.
Load Case Combo Box
Report Types Combo Box. The drop-down list contains the report types available for the selected load case. The availability may change from load case to the next. The sheet tabs (the bottom of the view) display names that indicate the load case and the type.
Units combo box. A report will be re-displayed once the units selection is changed.
Ordered by Data Point radio button. This is the default selection. It means that the spreadsheet reports will be limited to the results of the selected load case. Data points pertaining to all (or just the selected) components will be shown.
Ordered by Case radio button. This option is enabled once cells within the data-point-ordered spreadsheet are selected. Once the radio button is clicked, the spreadsheet will be rearranged, displaying results from all the relevant load cases.
Case Show check boxes. For case-ordered spreadsheets, it's possible to specify all load cases (the default), just the base operating cases (ignore the detail of thermal, weight, occasional), show time history snap-shots (it's a substantial volume of data).
Spreadsheet Controls
Left click (or double). Edit the component. If it's a column header cell, sort the column by numerical order. Subsequent clicks cycle through ascending, descending, original.
Right click. Show Structural Member Stress Points.
Sheet change. Synchronize the Report Types Combo Box and the Load Case Combo Box.
Up-arrow. If in top row, change to previous sheet. May be essential with more than 1000 sheets.
Down-arrow. If in bottom row, change to next sheet. May be essential with more than 1000 sheets.
Time Function Comment
Optional. Use it to document what the function is supposed to do.
Comments are presented to the time history calculator and appear in the execution logs.
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These time-dependencies are fed to the time histoy calculator that solves the modal equations of motion analytically.
Time Functions.
Time Function Name
Functions are identified by name (1-4 characters, except tables). TRIFLEX® enforces uniqueness.
Time Function Parameters
The parameters are defined in the spreadsheet columns labelled A, B, C, and D. Their roles are type-dependent.
Linear - A and B represent two distinct time values, C and D represent the corresponding functional values. Examine the provided functions Step, Ramp, and Back for an illustration.
Harmonic - A represents the frequency (qualified by C), B represents a time value added to the time variable (phase), the first character in C tells whether the frequency is measured in Hz, or RPM.
Periodic - A represents the length of time the pulse is active, B represents the length of time the pulse is inactive (A + B = period), C and D represent the functional values at the beginning and at the end of the active time.
Time Function Table
Tables of time-value pairs are maintained. Tables may be saved or loaded.
The table is internally developed into a sequence of linear interpolations between time-value pairs.
Time Value Table.
Time Function Type
The combo box offers the choices:
Linear - user controls slope and intercepts.
Harmonic - user controls frequency and phase.
Periodic - a repetitive sequence of linear pulses.
Table - user controls time-value pairs. Linear interpolation is applied.
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Time Functions
The dialog is a tab in the Time History Analysis Dialog.
Time functions define the time-dependence of boundary conditions (either loads or movements).
These time-dependencies are fed to the time history calculator that solves the modal equations of motion analytically.
The functions are maintained in a spreadsheet. A row in the spreadsheet represents a function. The function corresponding to the current row (where the cursor is) is shown graphically.
Time Function Name.
Time Function Type.
Time Function Parameters.
Time Function Comment.
Time History Analysis Dialog
The dialog is accessible from the Setup Menu.
Time Functions.
Nodal Excitations.
Time History Calculation.
Time History Animation Control Panel
Basic controls for time history animation. Designed to be similar to video display controls.
Time history animation persists throughout graphic view manipulations, until it is dismissed.
Displacement Display
Time History Calculation
The dialog is a tab in the Time History Analysis Dialog. It sets calculator parameters.
There are buttons for "execution" (solving the modal equations of motion), and for "snapshot generation" (the consequent reconstitution of point-based results).
Global Damping Factor.
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Simulation Time and Interval.
Attenuation Criterion.
Snapshots Generation Defaults.
Snapshots Generation Parameters.
Time Simulation Parameters
This dialog is invoked by the time history calculator (if parameter revision is enabled).
TRIFLEX® estimates the modal responses and fills them in a bar chart.
Provisional recommendations for the final time and for the time interval are presented.
Users may click within the bar chart, at the mode they consider the highest significant mode, and watch how a new value for the time interval is presented.
Users may edit the time values at their discretion.
OK will modify the time parameters used for the simulation. Cancel will keep the values presented when the dialog opens.
Either way, time history simulation will go on.
Simulation Time and Interval.
Translational Stiffnesses
The User may enter the desired translational stiffness along the Axial direction (along the axis of the release element) and along the Lateral directions (along each of the two perpendicular axes). The first of the two lateral translational stiffnesses will be the one oriented most vertically and the second of the two lateral translational stiffnesses will be the one oriented most horizontally. However, if the release element is oriented along the Y axis, then the three values must be the axial (along the Y axis), the lateral along the X axis second, and the lateral along the Z axis third.
To define the desired translational stiffness along each of the three axes, the User can select Free or Rigid from the drop down combo list in each of the fields or enter a numerical value in any of these fields.
Type (Flange)
The User must select a Flange Type from the drop down combo list in this field. The default valve type is the AAAT Standard Flange. From our staff’s past experience, this flange is an average flange. The Type of flange, along with the Rating, allows TRIFLEX® to search through
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the flange database to find the desired flange. The current TRIFLEX® Flange database consists of five flange types. The User may select “User Specified” in order to be able to enter the preferred weight and length.
The flange types available in TRIFLEX® are: AAAT Std. Flange, Blind Flange, Lap Joint Flange, Slip-on Flange, Weld Neck Flange and User Specified.
Flange
Type (Pressure Relief Valve)
The User must select a Pressure Relief Valve Type from the drop down combo list in this field. The default valve type is the AAAT Standard Valve. From our staff’s past experience, this flange is an average flange. The Type of flange, along with the Rating, allows TRIFLEX® to search through the flange database to find the desired flange. The current TRIFLEX® Flange database consists of five flange types. The User may select “User Specified” in order to be able to enter the preferred weight and length.
Valve
Type (Valve)
The User must select a Valve Type from the drop down combo list in this field. The default valve type is the AAAT Standard Valve. From our staff’s past experience, this flange is an average flange. The Type of flange, along with the Rating, allows TRIFLEX® to search through the flange database to find the desired flange. The current TRIFLEX® Flange database consists of five flange types. The User may select “User Specified” in order to be able to enter the preferred weight and length.
UKOOA Code
The dialog accesses code allowables and parameters.
Design Stress, Design Strain, and FRP type, may change value from one component to the next.
Ultimate Force (or Moment) Gaps
This is a variation on basic limit stop.
Initially, the stop is locked and the reactive force (or moment) needed to uphold the lock is evaluated. As long as the required locking force (or moment) does not exceed the specified "break", the movement is still zero.
If the required locking force (or moment) exceed the "break", the lock is released, movement is allowed, and the in-between stiffness is applied. That is, behaving just like the basic limit stop.
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TRIFLEX® offers variations on this ultimate limit stop:
Cylindrical or Spherical Gaps.
Friction Slip Gaps
Boundary Conditions
Uniform Load Spreadsheet
Uniform loads preserve their direction regardless of the orientation of the components.
Uniform loads are case-dependent. Each spread-sheet row specifies the uniform load, independently of the other cases.
The spreadsheet (in tandem with the wind loads) supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
Apply Load Check Box. Indicate whether uniform load is applied (per case). The user may clear the box (no load), still keeping data in the other columns.
Load. User data entry.
Angles. One legacy method for specifying the direction. The sum of the squares of the cosines must be equal to 1.
Error. Whether the direction is a valid vector.
Vector. The preferred method for specifying the direction. Normalized on the fly, unless all three components are zeroes (flagging an error).
Wind / Uniform Loads
Upper Limit Stiffness / Damper Dynamic Stiffness
The edit boxes have two uses: Upper Limit Stiffness per limit stops, or Dynamic Stiffness per dampers.
Boundary Conditions
User Defined Stiffness
If the User wishes to instruct TRIFLEX® to consider the anchor to have specific stiffnesses along one or more axes or about one or more axes, then the User should click on the radio button just to the left of “User Defined Stiffness”. When this radio button is selected, TRIFLEX® will
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then activate the Translational Stiffness data group and the Rotational Stiffness data group to enable the User to enter the desired stiffnesses along and about the X, Y, and Z axes.
User-Specified Spectrum Table
The dialog supports a spreadsheet where period (or frequency) - value pairs are maintained.
The concept of named tables with their data set services (load, save, delete, edit) is supported.
Spectrum Data.
Utilities Menu
This is a drop-down menu in the Main Menu
Data Base Sub-Menu
Reset Material Cache
Current Data File
Import Sub-Menu
Export Sub-Menu
Print Reports
Points Distance
Merge Error (see Edit Menu)
Connectivity Log
Structural Member Stress Points
Reorder Component List
Activator Check
WERCO Interface
TRIHANGER Interface
View AAAT Catalog
Comprehensive Help Index
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Valve
Component type dialogs are accessible from the Components Menu or the Components Toolbar.
A valve defines a fitting consisting of an optional leading pipe, and a valve, with or without flanges.
Comprehensive Help Index
Data fields and controls
Component name
Node number combo boxes
Delta Dimensions
Valve Type combo box
Valve Class combo box
Valve Class combo box
Flange Type combo box
Flange Class combo box
Flange Class combo box
Weight Off check box
Buoyancy check box
Intermediate Nodes
Maximum Spacing
Stress Intensification Factors
Flange pairing radio buttons
Stress Intensification Factors
Connect with Previous Node check box
Use the absolute coordinate button
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Property Ripple button
Show Transparent check box
Valve Class
Valves are usually rated per the pressure (in psi) they are designed to carry before rupture.
TRIFLEX® maintains a valve data-base, where the user has read-write access. The data-base is searched by the type and the class. The search returns the valve length, weight and the insulation factor.
Valve Pressure Class
Valves are classified per the pressure rating. The valve data base can be queried for the combination of size, class, and type.
Valve Data Base
Valve Data
The valve length and weight are specified for non-flanged portion of the valve.
The valve insulation factor is defined as the weight (in lbs.) per the length (in ft.) of the valve.
The valve operator weight is just added to valve weight. Eccentricity is not considered.
Valve Data Base (Database)
This dialog accesses a single Valve Data Base record. There are data base control buttons.
Data Base Sub-Menu
Data fields and controls
Valve Size combo box
Valve Pressure Class combo box
Valve Type combo box
Valve Query button
Valve Length and Weight
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Valve Length and Weight
Once the Query button is pressed, a valid valve is presented. The class may be different from the user's choice. The weight, length, and the insulation factor can be picked up for calculations.
Valve Data Base
Valve Pressure Class
Valves are classified per the pressure rating. The valve data base can be queried for the combination of size, class, and type.
Valve and Pressure Release Valve Query
The button initiates a data base search for the valve matching the size, class, and type specified by the user. The closest match (not necessarily identical) is returned.
Valve and Pressure Release Valve Size
The valve data base is ordered by valve sizes. A selection from the combo box is guaranteed to land some matching data base records.
The combination of size, class, and type leads to a unique valve.
Valve and Pressure Release Valve Type
Valves are classified also by type. The data base can be queried by the combination of size, class, and type for a unique valve.
View Along a User Defined Vector
The vector (eye to screen) is defined by three components.
Orient View
View Selection by Direction
The primary selection of a view is done by the vector emanating from the eye (or the camera) to the center of the screen.
The user may choose among pre-determined directions (front, side, top), the current component, or define a direction.
Wall Thickness at From Node
At either end of the reducer, the wall thickness is specified the same way.
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Specifying Wall Thickness
Reducer
Wall Thickness at To Node
At either end of the reducer, the wall thickness is specified the same way.
Water Hammer
The dialog sets up the generation of nodal excitations resulting from an abrupt changes (such as emergency shut-downs) in the flow of liquids through the piping.
The utility calculates the force imbalance propagating with the pressure wave. All piping segments in the system (where the material, size, and direction are preserved) are available for selection. The actual force calculation is performed only for the selected segments.
The left-hand spreadsheet presents all the available segments. The right spreadsheet maintains the selected segments. The Segment Selection is under user control.
Water Hammer Calculator.
Excitation Utilities.
Water Hammer Calculator
The calculator deals with the force imbalance propagating with the pressure wave, transforming them into nodal excitations.
Only segments included in the right spreadsheet participate in the calculation.
Each spreadsheet row represents a piping segment. The columns are explained in the following paragraphs.
From and To define the ends of the segment. A segment may span over several components.
The Direction arrow specifies the end where the excitation should apply. Due to the substantially greater axis stiffnesses, it doesn't make to much of a difference.
The X, Y, Z directions and Length help the user identify short (meaningless) segments.
The Fluid combo box provides access to liquids with known properties.
The Bulk Modulus is defined as the theoretical pressure under which the liquid will shrink to zero volume (linear extrapolation of small compressions).
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The Specific Gravity and the Bulk Modulus are needed for the speed of pressure waves.
Flow-rate is used for the abrupt drop in the mass flow rate.
Users may modify the "time" when the wave hits a node, the calculator will complete the spreadsheet by speed/length calculations.
Water Hammer.
Weight Off
·If the User wishes to tell TRIFLEX® to consider the component being entered as weightless, then the User should place a check in the box immediately to the left of the label “Weight Off”. The default is for weight to be considered.
Experience indicates that this option needs to be left as "Weight On" and never to be saved in the "Weight Off" condition.
Wind / Uniform Loads
Both wind loads as well as uniform loads are distributed along the piping components. TRIFLEX® allows both to be applied concurrently.
Wind / Uniform Loads data fields and controls
Ripple controls
Wind Loading spreadsheet
Uniform Loading spreadsheet
Height of Center Above Ground
Wind Load Spreadsheet
Wind loads are resolved according to the orientation of the component. The portion that is tangent to the component is ignored (zero resistance is assumed). The portion that is perpendicular to the component is retained and applied.
Wind loads are case-dependent. Each spread-sheet row specifies the wind load, independently of the other cases.
The spreadsheet (in tandem with the uniform loads) supports per-case select/copy/paste/undo-paste operations Case Dependent Spreadsheets.
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Apply Load Check Box. Indicate whether wind load is applied (per case). The user may clear the box (no load), still keeping data in the other columns.
Method Combo Box. Wind Speed (let TRIFLEX® calculate the load). Pressure Force (let TRIFLEX® calculate the load). Actual Load. UBC (code). ASCE (code).
Speed. Enabled with the "Wind Speed" method. Used with the size and the factor.
Pressure. Enabled with the "Pressure Force" method. Used with the factor.
Exposure Combo Box. Appears when the method is UBC or ASCE. Specifies the exposure level per the code.
Factor. Enabled with the "Speed" or "Force" methods.
Load. Enabled with the "Actual Load" method. Else - calculated.
Angles. One legacy method for specifying the wind direction. The sum of the squares of the cosines must be equal to 1.
Error. Whether the wind direction is a valid vector.
Vector. The preferred method for specifying the wind direction. Normalized on the fly, unless all three components are zeroes (flagging an error).
Wind / Uniform Loads
Comprehensive Help Index
"Y" Axis Rigid
·If the User wishes to instruct TRIFLEX® to consider the anchor to be totally free along the X and Z axes and about all axes, then the User should click on the radio button just to the left of “Y” Axis Rigid. TRIFLEX® will then consider the anchor to be completely flexible along the X, and Z axes and about the X, Y, and Z axes, but totally rigid along the Y axis.
Zero Period Acceleration
This is a modification to the inter-modal combination that underlies response spectrum analysis. Static equivalent responses are applied in a manner that compensates for the absence of super-high modes (hence zero period).
The procedure follows the ASCE building code.
Response Spectrum Analysis Control
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Minimum Length
In this field, TRIFLEX® Windows displays the minimum length that must be provided between the previous Node Point and the To Node location being entered by the User. The Absolute Length dimension entered by the User must be equal to or greater than the minimum length computed by TRIFLEX® Windows. (This field is a display field only.)
Minimum Length is a calculated delta dimension based on the preceding component.
Minimum length reflects the delta dimension that has been calculated, and does not accept user input. It often represents a dimension that is required to "escape" from the previous component. For instance, a pipe modeled after an elbow must first "escape" or clear the elbow.
In the case of a pipe coming from an elbow, the pipe's dimension starts from the Tangent Intersection of the elbow.
Use Real Length
Real Length will be inactive until there is a connectivity issue or question that may require your attention.
For instance after a Copy/Paste is made, or a loop needs to be closed, TRIFLEX® will allow you to "Use Real Length" in order to close a very small gap between components.
Use the Minimum Length
If the User wishes to instruct TRIFLEX® Windows to use the Minimum Length as calculated by TRIFLEX® Windows based upon the length of the valve, any flanges and the preceding component, then the User should place a check in the box immediately to the left of the label “Use the Minimum Length”. TRIFLEX® Windows will then replace the absolute length with the minimum required length.
This is particularly helpful when the User desires to place a valve fitting make-up with the previous component that eliminates the need for the User to perform manual math calculations.
Please, see minimum length for more details.
TRIFLEX® Windows webpage: http://www.pipingsolutions.com/triflex
PipingSolutions, Inc. webpage: http://www.pipingsolutions.com
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Later Additions to this Help:
Non-conservative or liberal allowable
Note: One might ask the owner/operator if they can use the non-conservative or liberal allowable. You will notice that B31.1 & B31.3 use the same equation.
In B31.3 Page 15 & 17 it describes two ways to calculate the displacement stress range ALLOWABLE. So SA not SE (which is ACTUAL). So below in the excerpt you will see equations 1a & 1b. 1a is the Conservative and 1b is the NON-Conservative (Liberal). The liberal 1b equation is really this equation when it is expanded:
SA = F[(1.25 Sc + 0.25 Sh)+ Sh-SL]= F[1.25 (Sc + Sh) -SL] (1b)
So you can see what they are doing is allowing you to increase the allowable by taking credit for left over (unused) sustained stress which is represented by Sh-SLor the Sustained Allowable – the Sustained Actual.
This is an excerpt from B31.3.
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In B31.1 it is as below….
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How to do Skewed Restraints
If you want an axial stop (for instance) on a skewed pipe, you would make the coordinate system A, B, C. Then, Press Set Axes to LNG. Then, if you have set the A axis as Zero movement, it will work. The A axis represents the Axial axis or the L axis.
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Some Historical References of TRIFLEX®
During the past 42 years… some of the representative references to our TRIFLEX® Windows program as found by Google books:
TRIFLEX in the 1970’s… in the 1980’s… in the 1990’s… in the 2000’s... and in the 2010’s
1. Ellenberger, P. Piping and Pipeline Calculations Manual. Part II Construction and Design Fabrication. Chapter 7. Piping Flexibility, Reactions, and Sustained Thermal Calculations, Required Flexibility. Elsevier, p. 135, 2010 [from Google books (also here); this book is going to its 2nd. Ed. in 2014]
2. American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Proceedings of the ASME Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference – 2006. Vol. 3: Design and Analysis, ASME, p. 201, 2007. [In Google books]
3. Nayyar, M. Piping Handbook. Triflex: Piping stress, design, and analysis. McGraw-Hill, pp. 10 and 94. 2000. [In Google books]
4. Rosaler, R. C. Standard Handbook of Plant Engineering. List of suppliers of computer programs for analyzing of piping systems. McGraw-Hill, p. 10-34, 1995. [In Google books]
5. International Business Machines Corp. Catalog of Higher Education Application Programs. TRIFLEXTM Purpose: To calculate the deflections, forces, moments, etc. IBM, p. 117, 1988. [In Google books]
6. Hydrocarbon Processing. NEW: TRIFLEXTM Pipe Stress Analysis. Gulf Pub. Co., 66(7-12):107,148,269, 1987. [In Google books]
7. Short, W. E., Pressure Vessels, Piping, and Components: Design and Analysis: Pressure Vessels and Piping Conference and Exhibition, Chicago, IL, Jul. 20-24. ASME, 1986. [In Google books]
8. Flora, P. C. International Engineering/Scientific Software Directory. Company Description. Technical DataBase Corp., p. 1, 1985. [In Google books]
9. American Nuclear Society. Isometric drawings. Nuclear News, 23(2):79, 1980. [In Google books]
10. Software Digest. Pipe Analysis Program. United Computing Systems, Inc., has announced the addition of the latest version of TRIFLEX, a program for performing piping flexibility and stress analyses. EDP, 10:38, 1978. [In Google books]
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11. Computerworld. Installation and engineering support of its Triflex Piping System Analysis and Design Program on Procter & Gamble's two IBM. IDG Enterprise, 11(19):59, 1977. [In Google books]
12. Datamation. TRIFLEX is a proprietary piping flexibility analysis program. Tech. Pub. Co., p. 58, 1975. [In Google books]
THE END
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