Problem:
The following is displayed when using AutoPIPE
* * * W A R N I N G - MODEL * * *
W2261-45: B31 App J: Crotch radius is less than or equal to zero for the tee(s) below,
which may increase SIFs and flexibility factors unexpectedly.
Why and How to avoid it?
Solution:
This warning refers to a specific clause in ASME B31.J code related to tees. Find type of component in table 1-1 (Flexibility and Stress Intensification Factors), and refer to the various notes that apply. One can review the SIF calculations for the respective component to see exactly how the Crotch Radius affects the results. The notes also provide details on what to do when this value is missing from the input.
Note, the component manufacturing standards do not control this dimension. Each manufacture may have a different value for this dimension for each pipe size.
Avoidance:
Reach out to the manufacturer of the component and request a detailed dimensional drawing and input the value into AutoPIPE.