Print this page Basics of Piping System Thermal Expansion for Process Engineers
William N. Weaver, P.E. and John C. Huang, Ph.D., P.E.
Course Outline
This material provides a basic understanding of thermal expansion in piping systems. Calculations are provided with an explanation of terms used. Causes of pipe expansion are explored providing the engineer with a basic knowledge suitable for ensuring expansion problems do not develop in his designs or facility. A commonly used ASME test for pipe stress is introduced with calculations and techniques to correct expansion caused stresses in piping systems.
This material consists of five parts designed to provide the engineer with a basic understanding of thermally induced pipe expansion. Those parts are:
- Basic thermal expansion equations and calculations
- Expected and unexpected causes of thermal expansion
- ASME pipe stress test
- Corrective actions available to relieve pipe stress
- Sources of and problems with thermal coefficients of expansion
A brief discussion
of shrinkage of pipes is included along with tables of thermal expansion coefficients
and references.
This course includes
a multiple-choice quiz at the end, which is designed to enhance the understanding
of the course materials.
Learning Objective
On completion of this course material the student should:
- Be able to calculate thermal expansion for any pipe line;
- Have a good understanding of the causes of thermal expansion;
- Have a basic understanding how to resolve expansion problems;
- Know how to use and limit the use of the ASME pipe stress test;
- Be aware of the potential problems with thermal expansion data; and
- Be able to review
and comment on piping design where expansion may be a problem.
Intended
Audience
This course material
is intended for Process Engineers, Piping Engineers, Maintenance Engineers and
Construction Engineers. Engineering Manager with review responsibility will
also benefit.
Benefits
to Attendee
Engineers completing this course material will be better prepared to evaluate piping system designs and installations. The basic understanding of thermal expansion is essential to proper piping system design and approval. The Construction or Maintenance Engineer will benefit in that a walk down review of installed piping will now include thermal expansion concerns.
Course Introduction
This course is designed to provide the engineer with sufficient information and training to evaluate pipe expansion problem in design drawings and in field installations. Those responsible for piping systems will have a basic understanding of the available solutions for thermally induced pipe expansion.
Course Content
The course content is in the following PDF files:
Basics of Piping System Thermal Expansion for Process Engineers
You need to open
or download above documents to study this course.
Course Summary
Provides a basic understanding of thermally induced expansion and the methods available to control that expansion. Allows for a mathematical evaluation of a variety of piping systems for excessive stress.
Related
Links
www.ASME.com
Quiz
Once you finish studying the above course content, you need to take a quiz to obtain the PDH credits.
DISCLAIMER: The materials contained in the online course are not intended as a representation or warranty on the part of PDH Center or any other person/organization named herein. The materials are for general information only. They are not a substitute for competent professional advice. Application of this information to a specific project should be reviewed by a registered architect and/or professional engineer/surveyor. Anyone making use of the information set forth herein does so at their own risk and assumes any and all resulting liability arising therefrom.
