The main purpose and objective of piping stress analysis is to ensure structural integrity and to maintain system operability. It can be elaborated as below:
To ensure adequate flexibility in the piping system for absorbing the thermal expansion of the pipe.
To ensure that the stresses in the piping components are within the allowable limits with respect to applicable codes and standards.
To keep the piping connected equipment nozzle loads within specified allowable limits with respect to relevant standards (e.g. NEMA SM 23, API 610, API 661, API 667, ASME sec III, EN 13445, ASME B31.3)
To select the correct type of pipe support based on piping stress calculation.
To check and ensure pipe displacements at maximum and minimum temperatures for clash-free routing.
To calculate and ensure loads and moments on the supporting structures are in the acceptable range with respect to civil requirements.
To solve dynamic problems in piping, such as those due to seismic loads, mechanical vibration, acoustic vibration, fluid hammer, pulsation, transient flow, relief valve discharge.
To ensure leakage proof flange joints.
To find out unintentional disengagement of pipe from support.
