Modelling of pipe support at pump inlet
Modelling of pipe support at pump inlet
(OP)
Hi,
I have a tee (with blind flange) at the pump suction instead of more commonly used elbow. There is an eccentric reducer with the inlet nozzle, then a tee with blind flange and vertical pipe (see the sketch attached). The pipe is supported at tee and pump is supported at centerline of the nozzle.
The question is where to apply the restraint in CAESAR model, at centerline or at the bottom of the pipe with an offset element? If I apply restraint at the bottom of the pipe nozzle loads are very high in vertical direction.
In our company we apply restraint at centreline but I would like to have opinion of other people in this field.
Thanks
I have a tee (with blind flange) at the pump suction instead of more commonly used elbow. There is an eccentric reducer with the inlet nozzle, then a tee with blind flange and vertical pipe (see the sketch attached). The pipe is supported at tee and pump is supported at centerline of the nozzle.
The question is where to apply the restraint in CAESAR model, at centerline or at the bottom of the pipe with an offset element? If I apply restraint at the bottom of the pipe nozzle loads are very high in vertical direction.
In our company we apply restraint at centreline but I would like to have opinion of other people in this field.
Thanks





RE: Modelling of pipe support at pump inlet
A support from the floor to a pipe, where the pipe lifts off of it in the upward direction during operation (the support does not move) will be no help after the pipe lifts off the support, All pipe weight will be taken off the support and thrown onto the pump nozzle.
The pipe between support and nozzle should be long and flexible enough to rest on the support both during the cold and hot conditions without putting undue stress on the nozzle in either situation.
"People will work for you with blood and sweat and tears if they work for what they believe in......" - Simon Sinek
RE: Modelling of pipe support at pump inlet
Which case is closer to reality? Can you justify using the more real case?
- Steve Perry
This post is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is offered with the understanding that the author is not engaged in rendering engineering or other professional service. If you need help, get help, and PAY FOR IT.
RE: Modelling of pipe support at pump inlet
What is your temperature? What is the nozzle and reducer sizes? Is this an API pump so you compare your loads with API-610?
Where do you locate your anchor point? At the nozzle? Center of the pump? If at the nozzle, do you apply nozzle displacements to it?
There are unknowns which make it hard to help.
Frank
RE: Modelling of pipe support at pump inlet
If your Pump is a Center-Line Supported design then your pipe support should also be a Center-Line Supported design.
Your CAESAR results should prove this correct.
prognosis: Lead or Lag