Overview
This article explains how AutoPIPE Vessel handles insulation weight calculations, where insulation mass is reported, how it is incorporated into load cases, and the current limitations regarding insulation cladding.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does AutoPIPE Vessel calculate insulation mass automatically?
Yes. AutoPIPE Vessel automatically calculates insulation mass based on the insulation properties defined in the vessel model, including:
- Insulation thickness
- Insulation density
- Surface area covered by the insulation
The calculated insulation weight is then included in the applicable load cases based on the load condition settings.
2. Where is insulation mass reported, and in which load cases is it included?
The calculated insulation mass is reported in the Summary of Weights section of the calculation report under the load conditions where insulation weight has been enabled.
The inclusion of insulation weight is controlled through:
Vessel Properties > Load Conditions
If the Insulation Weight option is selected for a specific load case, AutoPIPE Vessel includes the insulation weight in the corresponding calculations and reporting.
3. Is insulation mass included in operating mass, test mass, foundation loads, and vessel combination loading calculations?
When insulation weight is enabled for a load case, it is included in:
- Operating Mass
- Foundation Load Calculations
- Support Reaction Calculations
- Vessel Combination Load Calculations
- Global Vessel Analysis
For Hydrotest/Test conditions, insulation weight is generally not considered because insulation is typically installed after hydrostatic testing. Therefore, hydrotest load cases normally exclude insulation weight.
4. Does AutoPIPE Vessel support external insulation cladding or weather jacketing?
No. AutoPIPE Vessel does not currently provide dedicated functionality for defining or calculating the mass of any insulation cladding or weather jacketing.
Only the insulation material itself is considered in the standard insulation weight calculations.
5. How can insulation cladding weight be considered in calculations?
AutoPIPE Vessel does not provide dedicated inputs for defining insulation cladding thickness, density, or coverage, and therefore does not report cladding weight separately.
If cladding weight must be included in the analysis, users may consider one of the following workarounds:
Option 1: Apply Cladding as an External Load
Add the cladding weight as an external load so that it is included in:
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- Global vessel analysis
- Support reactions
- Foundation load calculations
- Lifting evaluations
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Option 2: Adjust Insulation Properties
Users may increase the insulation thickness or insulation density to account for the additional weight contributed by the cladding. This approach allows the overall installed insulation system weight to be represented within the model.
Note: This method does not provide separate reporting of insulation and cladding weights.