To calculate the design loads for the sizing of supports and restraints.

To keep pressure vessel stresses at piping connections within the ASME Section VIII allowable limit.

To keep nozzle loading on attached equipment within the allowable limit by manufacturers or standards like (API 610, API 617, the Hydraulic Institute, etc.).

To keep stresses in the pipe and fittings within the code allowable stress limit.

To ensure that piping is routed and supported in a manner that no damage occurs to either the pipe or connected equipment due to the effects of thermal expansion/contraction, or the loads resulting from weight, pressure, wind earthquake, shock, foundation settlement, etc.

If there is no thermal growth in the piping system and the line is smaller.

A comparison must be done by an experienced professional. If the same type of project or lines has been previously analyzed, then we can compare it with that line.These are the points to consider for making the decision of not doing stress analysis of some lines.

But, we should avoid these practices, If the time and cost permits. Sometime we may not be required to do pipe stress analysis, even if the line is stress critical line. When Pipe Stress Analysis may NOT be Required? If the plant location is in a high seismic zone.If the line belongs suction or discharge, as these lines come under vibration.If the piping system is complex means the number of branches is higher.If the professional review or report shows the system to lack the flexibility.If the short hot runs of pipe anchored at both ends.If the line carries hazardous chemicals.If the line size is 6″ and above, connected to pressure vessels.If the line size is 2 ½” and above, connected to rotating equipment.If any line size is above 12″ (some say 8″), as “bigger the pipe size heavier the weight”.If the system temperature exceeds 300F, we should analyze lines smaller than 4″ also.If the system operating temperature exceeds 150F and the pipe or line size is 4″ or above.Different industries or companies may use strict or simple guidelines for performing piping stress analysis. There are numbers of “thumb rule” for when to apply pipe stress analysis. Discharge reaction (for example Relief valve, PSV, etc.Restriction to pipe expansion and contraction.Live and dead load (weight of Pipe, piping component, insulation, flowing fluid, etc).Codes and Standards for Stress Analysis.Inputs Required for Pipe Stress Analysis.Types of Loads which Creates Stress in the Piping System.When Pipe Stress Analysis may NOT be Required?.

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