Note: detailed information about AutoPIPE's interface can be found in the following file installed with the program: 

AutoPIPE Connect 11.x and higher:

Select the Help Tab (ribbon), and see a range of user references 

Also, see the following AutoPIPE help section:

Help > Contents> Contents Tab> Bentley AutoPIPE> Supplemental Documentation> Supplemental Documentation doc, scroll down to bottom to see listing of PDF files

Example:

AutoPIPE Quick Reference Card

Mapping AutoPIPE v11 Ribbon Commands to AutoPIPE v10 Menu Commands

 

AutoPIPE Connect 10.x: 

C:\Program Files (x86)\Bentley\AutoPIPE CONNECT\Documents\ AutoPIPE_Tutorial.pdf

AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.xx:

C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\Documents\AutoPIPE_Tutorial.pdf

AutoPIPE V8i 09.05.xx and lower:

C:\ Bentley\ AutoPIPE V8i SELECTseries\apdoc.pdf

INTERFACE:

The AutoPIPE interface is designed to simplify the task of creating, modifying, and reviewing models of any complexity.

Take some time to familiarize yourself with AutoPIPE's interface by examining the areas of the screen annotated below.

v.11.00.xx.xx and higher

v.10.01.xx.xx and lower:

Note: the units for any dialog field entry is always located in the lower right hand corner of the application screen, as shown above. If this field is blank, the unit value is dimensionless. The displayed units are dependent upon the specified library located underTools> Model Options> General> Units file name - Input: / Output.

Use any of the following Unit formats when entering coordinates "Offset" fields (i.e., "Length," "DX/DY/DZ") use architectural units.

Note: Also refer to Tools/ Model options /Edit > "Use feet-inches display format"  option\

ENTERING DATA INTO DIALOG SCREENS:

One of the main interfaces in AutoPIPE is by entering data into many of the programs dialog screens. These dialog screens are dynamically interactive; meaning that there is a specific order in which the dialog expects data to be entered, this sequence of data / options selected / check boxes may convert subsequent dependent fields to be Grayed-out / Close or become Un-grayed / Open to allow a user to enter data.

The best method for interfacing with any of AutoPIPE's dialog screens is by using the Keyboard "Tab" key.  When a dialog screen appears, press TAB key to progress through the pre-determined sequence of field selection; when on a specific field, enter data as required. This will ensure that the program is getting the correct information in an order to dynamically adjust the dialog based on the selection / check boxes  / data entered.

At this time, user's will enter appropriate values base on the Units for that dialog field / grid cell regardless of the model units being Metric or English. However, in the actual model database behind the scene, all values are converted and stored in English units. When called upon, these values are converted based on the factors mentioned in the assigned Units file and displayed on dialogs or in grids as needed. Because of this conversion process some values are rounded off automatically. A new enhancement has been logged to help this round of issue (TFS-E394189).

Next, if the user enters a value into a dialog the program may round up numbers and may not store the full precision as entered by the user. There is a unit conversion occurring at the backend before these numbers are stored in the database which will result in some loss / round off.  This is intended behavior. Again, a dialog field may allow users to enter longer values than that stored in the database.. Example,  user enters a long value on the Snow load dialog. The value is truncated / round off to that which can be stored in the database. 

 

 

KEYBOARD EQUIVALENTS:

As you begin creating a model, you'll soon become familiar with AutoPIPE's use of dialogs to gather information from the user. Although the mouse can be used to navigate through the fields of a dialog, many users prefer the keyboard alternatives. Refer to the table below.

 

Keyboard Hot Keys - Very Useful & FAST!!!

AutoPIPE's menus have one letter underlined. The Insert menu, for example is probably, the most useful. By typing I then R you insert a run, I > B = insert bend, I > V = insert valve. After inputting your data, it's always faster pressing the Enter key instead of clicking OK.

Another useful hot key is Ctrl T to graphically view temperatures.

Please see the following AutoPIPE help section:
Help > Contents> Search Tab> enter "AutoPIPE Quick Reference Card" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information.

UNDERSTANDING THE ACTIVE POINT:

After defining and inserting a segment, you'll notice that a small cross-hair appears in the drawing area. This cross-hair represents the currently active point. The active point is also displayed in the status area immediately below the drawing area (see image above).

When placing components, you should remain aware of the active point. After selecting a component type for insertion, AutoPIPE will automatically assume that you want the starting point of the component to be inserted at the active point. By default, AutoPIPE will increment the point to the next value and concatenate this with the letter that defines the current segment. For example, if you are inserting a run point on Segment A that contains nothing but an anchor point, the Run Point dialog will contain the value A01 in the Name of Point field.

MODIFICATION OF PIPING GEOMETRY:

It is not necessary for a piping system to be defined completely in a single AutoPIPE session, because AutoPIPE allows a wide variety of additions, deletions, and changes to be made. In particular:

1. New segments can be added at any time.
2. Previously defined segments can be extended at any time.
3. Existing segments can be modified, or can be deleted and replaced.
4. A complete system, or sections of a system, can be copied within the same job or between
separate jobs with automatic renumbering.
5. Components can be inserted, deleted, or modified at any time.

EXECUTING A COMMAND:

Commands can be executed in one of three ways:

1. 1. 1. .. Click on one of the buttons in a toolbar.

      2. .. Select a command from the ribbon / menu system

      3. .. Key-in the command. The hotkey for each command is underlined in the menu system. As an example, to insert a bend, simply type I to go into insert mode, then B. The key-in command option requires memorization of certain hotkeys, but is an extremely efficient method of input.

See Apdoc.PDF indicated above for more valuable information.

Segments:

The model is divided into Segments which is helpful to identify and select different parts of the model. Typically, a new segment means a new branch. Segments have a direction - learn this. It is critical for insertion of points, and for interpretation of output results. Also, using View/Segment menu, users can turn on and off segments for viewing and making changes to the model. Using the Select Segment icon, users can select by segment.

Segment modeling tips to minimize the total number of segments and facilitate making modifications later.

Note: A header, where possible should be coded as one segment.

All branches should be separate unique continuous segments and avoid coding the same segment through the header to the branch or vice-versa.

Unique segments should be coded from Tee to Tee or Equipment anchor to Tee or Anchor to Anchor or Manifold header Start to End.

Avoid junction points i.e. 2 connecting segments in a straight pipe run.

Pipe Identifiers:

A segment can be made up of multiple pipe identifiers where a pipe identifier contains all the properties of the pipe for example; pipe size, schedule, insulation, material etc. Therefore to change a property like pipe material use Modify > properties of pipe identifier. To define completely different properties of a section of the model like new pipe size, use Select > Range (selected points = highlighted RED) then use Modify > Pipe Properties Over Range..., an existing pipe identifier can be selected from the drop-down list or ENTER a new 8 character name.

Inserting An Intermediate Point Or Multiple Points Between Existing Points:

1. Click once on the point either before or after where you want to insert. TC

2. Click the "Pipe Run" icon.

    

   AutoPIPE 11.x and higher:  

   
   AutoPIPE 10.x and lower: 

NOTES:

• The Pipe run icon has a field for "Generate Points" (see below). Type the number of intermediate points and length (a default length will be shown e.g. 1 point = midpoint between 2 existing run points) between them if more than 1.
• You can add a single point or multiple points either After (After is default) or Before an existing point. Before and After refers to the segment direction which the model is built.

HINT: Very useful for quickly creating equally spanned support points on a pipe rack.

Changing Offset Lengths:

If you check the box "Apply offset to all following points", it will do exactly that.

For example; if change the offset from 3 to 10 then all downstream points move the same change in offset = 7. If you don't check this option, it "slides" the point without changing the overall length of the system. Try clicking on a run point and changing offsets both ways to see for yourself. See screen below:

HINT: This function is also available from the right click menu in the Point Input grid.

Zoom:

The fastest way to zoom is to create a box window by holding down left mouse key and dragging over the area to be zoomed, then right mouse click once to zoom. This is way faster than having to click on the zoom icon each time.

NOTES:

• • Use dynamic zoom by right mouse click once to change the cursor from Pan (hand) to Zoom (magnifying glass) to Rotate. Also use the mouse scroll wheel for fast dynamic zoom on the mouse cursor.
  • Also Zoom topic above. Like CAD - 4 or 2 or 1 viewport can have different zoom settings which are saved when the model is closed. So when model is opened again - screen settings are at the same location as when the session was closed.

Navigating:

For navigating on the graphics model itself to go from point to point, use mouse clicks or use the arrow keys to navigate through the model. Arrow keys are often faster than mouse clicking. For dialog screens, use the tab key to progress to the next field, Shift Tab to go back to a previous field, or mouse click to go to any desired field. To close a dialog, it's usually faster to press the Enter key instead of mouse clicking the OK box.

To Check Model Connectivity:

Use the left and right keyboard arrow keys to move the cursor along the pipe from point to point. If the cursor stops but looks like more piping then use the up/down arrow keys to 'jump' to the next segment (segment name changes at bottom right corner) while the point name stays the same. If the cursor does not jump to the next segment then this point is a 'free' end point and disconnected from the remaining model. At a tee point use the up/down arrow keys to 'jump' to the branch or header segment - the tee arrows will highlight red to indicate whether the cursor is on the branch or header side.

NOTE: A tee point may have 2 or 3 segments intersecting it.

HINT: Use AutoPIPE's V8i new Connectivity Checker, which will scan the model and check for points within a node tolerance that are not connected along a segment.

 

 

In addition, AutoPIPE V8i 9.4 and higher added a new feature under Select> Connected Segments

See Online help for details on this feature.

Selection Sets:

Not available in other Pipe Stress programs. Just as with Microsoft Word or other windows applications, you first 'select' what needs to be modified, then they modify it. Modifications are the same in AutoPIPE. With AutoPIPE, there a number of ways to select ranges: click on one end, then hold shift key down and click on the other end.

• • The Select Segment tool 
           AutoPIPE 11.x and higher
          AutoPIPE 10.x and lower
    
    allows you to select by segment
  • The Select menu allows you to select by component (for example, select only flange points, or flex joints).
  • Select single points using the Ctrl key.

Selection sets can also be used for inserting or deleting across ranges of points or components.

Examples:

Paste across ranges, insert or delete supports across range, insert User SIF for all bends or Tees, Insert soil or distributed loads across range or modify temperature & pressure for range. Selection sets are very important in using AutoPIPE.

HINT: If you don't understand selection sets, you're not efficiently using AutoPIPE.

• • • Use the Shift key to select multiple, continuous points.

      

    • Use the CTRL key to select multiple, non-continuous points:

       

      

 

• • • AutoPIPE allows you to select Ranges or Component Groups and apply Loads, Supports, Soil, and many kinds of data to those selections, instead of having to simply modify one element at a time.

 

View Color Plot or Other Information on the Model Graphics....

AutoPIPE V8i 9.5 and higher

The new feature enables the user view a color plot or pop-up information in a multitude of different styles:

Properties: Point Names, Beam Names, Point Symbol, Length, Support Tag

Components: Valve, Flange, Tee

Xtra Data: Weight, Concentrated Forces, Imposed Displacements, Thermal Anchor Movements, Joint Type, User Weld Efficiency Factor, Point Static Earth Quake Factor, Reference Point, Gross Discontinuity [available ASME NB code only]

Color Plot: Design Temperature [available ASME NB/NC/ND codes only], Design Pressure [available ASME NB/NC/ND codes only], Operating Temperature, Operating Pressure, Delta T1 [available ASME NB code only], Delta T2 [available ASME NB code only], Hydrodynamic Data, Member Static Earth Quake Factor, Pipes with Rigid Options, Soil Properties, Pipe Insulation, Center of Gravity, Segments

Pipe Properties: Pipe Identifier, Material, Schedule, Nominal Diameter, Actual OD, Thickness, Corrosion, Insulation Thickness, Clad Thickness, Filter Pipe Properties

Show Connected Segments: Select this TAB to toggle on/off the display of all or individual segment groups.

Attention: see online help for details on this feature.

If you are experiencing difficulty viewing color plots, you can change contrasting legends on-the-fly. Simply double-click an legend color to dynamically change it.

AutoPIPE V8i 9.4 and Lower:

AutoPIPE enables users to graphically view the model by Pipe diameter, schedule, wall thickness, pipe material, Pipe identifier, etc. There is also the option to filter using Boolean logic (e.g view all 6" and schedule 40 pipe in the model). Check this feature out as it is very useful for checking and verifying input.

1. 1.  

      1. Select View > Show > Pipe Properites ...
      2. Specify the pipe criteria.
      3. The viewport is given a legend with the pipes displayed.

View Global and Local axis directions:

The View > Setup > Settings command displays the View Settings dialog, which enables you to set General, Scale Factors, and Axes settings.

The Axes tab provides the following settings for Global and Local Axes and north arrow:

Global Axes

Show: If this option is enabled then Global axes are displayed on the screen. 

Local Axes

Show: Check to enable the display of the local axes.

It is very important to understand the direction being used when reviewing output results. Suggest to review AutoPIPE help on Results Model Options> "Force (Global/Local)". 

Point Properties/Global Coordinates Tool:

Try it, it's useful to check pipe properties, temperatures/pressures, and global coordinates on a given point. By clicking on different points, this screen stays up, and users can quickly check their model 

1. 1. Select any point of interest.
   2. Click the View> Point Properties> Global Coordinates tool (Shortcut Key: F3)
   3. The Point Properties dialog appears. This dialog is dynamically updated if a different point is selected in the main window.

Try it, it's useful to check pipe properties, temperatures/pressures, and global coordinates on a given point. By clicking on different points, this screen stays up, and users can quickly check their model.

 

Modifying A Point Where There Exists Multiple Components

Even a support point has both a run point and a support at the same point. First, left mouse click once on the point you want to modify to make it the 'active' point. Next, right mouse click on the toolbar icon button of the component you wish to modify. For example, if you want to modify run point location to "slide" the support location, right mouse click over pipe run toolbar icon to change offsets. To modify a support, right mouse click over the toolbar support icon. Alternatively, to modify supports, double-click on the end of the support symbol itself on the graphics model.

NOTES:

• If 2 or more supports at one point then if it is difficult to double click on the support then click on the point then use Ctrl + Q (clear all selected points), use modify/support and a drop down list will appear with all the supports at the current point. Alternatively modify the support using the support grid.

• Similarly to delete a component, click on it to highlight RED then press the Delete key or click on the delete toolbar icon

Save And Reuse Common Piping And Support Configurations Between Jobs

Use AutoPIPE's graphical copy/paste capabilities to store commonly used pipe configurations (pump stations for different services, for example, or common vessel configurations) or complicated expansion joints or commonly used support structures using AutoPIPE's beam/frame elements. Just copy & paste from one job to another.

NOTE: The models must be in the same directory. Open 2 side by side sessions of AutoPIPE then copy/paste from one model to the other OR into the same model.

This is one of the most powerful features in AutoPIPE.

Define all the pipe identifiers for a project for the different pipe sizes, insulation, corrosion and material in one template model then use this to start a new model using already the already pre-defined pipe properties. Do not have to redefine these pipe properties again saving time and mistakes.

Using Copy/paste + Move command are powerful tools to template and recreate similar identical plant configurations from one project to the next.

Input Grids

Very powerful for reviewing the data and making global changes to the input grid e.g. select multiple cells or complete column to change support friction, enter the value = 0.3 then press CTRL + Enter. Notice grayed out cells are not updated.

Note: All Grids are dynamically synchronized bi-directionally with the graphic plot. Select a cell or group of cells and make a change – immediately see the change on the plot and vice versa. If click on a component on the plot this will place the arrow cursor on the row in the current grid.

To make global changes on cells with drop-down lists e.g. support type first select all cells then hold CTRL key and click on any of the cells to select the new item then CTRL + Enter to apply to all selected cells.

Note: Multiple cells can be changed across different columns provided it is 'like-data' e.g. all support gaps or all offsets

Hint: To try to different support configurations e.g. try 3 springs instead of Vstop's as shown below.  Select the supports in the Grid then hold the CTRL key down and select spring from the drop down list for one cell in the range then press Enter.

Like Excel select columns then right click to hide or unhide them

Sorting: Double click the header of any column (cursor shown as downward arrow); to sort the data into logical groups e.g. support types. To restore the default sort order double click on the top leftmost cell.

Hint: This is very useful to find mistakes in the data e.g. incorrect support type, friction or gaps.

Modify: To modify a component data through the dialog – double-click the row for the component.

Delete: To delete a component – click on the row and press the Delete key or click on the Delete toolbar icon

Selecting: Selecting cells or rows in any grid will Select /highlight those components on the graphic plot which can provide an accurate method of selecting components compared to graphical 'point and click' method. This also enables multiple random selections made by first holding the CTRL key down and mouse selecting the rows or cells – same as MS Excel.

Zooming the Grid: Any grid can be zoomed In or Out by holding the CTRL key and pushing the mouse scroll wheel forward or backward.

Mouse Right-Click menu: Useful functions like undo/redo, selecting All/Clear, copy/paste and custom printing available.

Other productive features of Excel-like Grids

Printing any grid to one page, other options to customize the header and footer with model and company information

 

Input grids currently available in AutoPIPE V8i 09.06.02.06:

Pres/Temp/PipeID	Pressure and Temperature data or change pipe identifier over a range of points
Pipe Properties	Any of the pipe identifier properties.
Segment	Hide or Select Segments, assign Line Numbers and Apply Snow
Point	Component lengths, point offsets, global coordinates or point names.
Design Pres/Temp	Design Pressure and Temperature (ASME NB only)
Anchor	Anchor Stiffnesses,  hanger releases and option to transfer loads for local stress analysis using AutoPIPE Nozzle
Support	Support identifier, Type, support stiffness, gaps, friction and support direction
Tee	Tee type, additional tee parameters including automatic SIF's
Bend	Bend point name, bend radius, Type, define bend midpoint.
Valve	Length, Type, pressure rating, weight, weld connection type and weld SIF
Flange	Type, pressure rating, weight, weld connection type, weld SIF, ANSI flange definition
Flex. Joint	Length, flexible joint stiffnesses, weight and pressure area
Reducer	Length, SIF, cone angle, weld mismatch.
Beam	Beam offsets, section and material identifiers, Beta angle, rigid lengths and end releases
Section ID	Beam section ID
Imposed Disp.	Load case, translational and rotational displacements
Concentrated Force	Load case, applied forces and moments.
Cut Short	Load case, amount of cut short or cut long.
Joint Type, SIF	In-plane and out-plane SIF, override option, flexibility factor
Weight	Additional weight and offsets.
Thermal Anchor Movements	Thermal anchor translational and rotational displacements
Soil	Soil defined over range of points, length, max soil spacing and number of soil points
Soil Identifier	Properties of any soil identifier
Gross Disc	Gross point discontinuity (ASME NB only)
Out Of Roundness	Out of roundness (ASME only)
Static EQ	Static earthquake factors
Reference Point	Properties of reference points
Hydrodynamic Data	Hydrodynamic data defined on points
Distributed Loads	Distributed load defined on a range of points
Rigid Options	Rigid options defined on a range
Restrain piping options	Restrain piping options defined one range

On some grids, data can be read from an library or manually updated:

Use Tee Grid as SIF Calculator

What Tee types will give a satisfactory stress? - Use Tee Grid as SIF calculator to make a quick check.

Soil Identifiers are Templates from Model to Model

Like Pipe Identifiers, Soil Identifiers can be a template and used over and over again in the model without having to re-define the properties

 

 

Working on Large Models - Filter nodes for viewing

Avoid time in finding and scrolling through lots of data for large models, instead  select and isolate a few segments to work on, troubleshoot and/or display results for using:

AutoPIPE CONNECT 11.x: On the Input Grids> Select the Segment Tab> "Show" column, toggle On / Off respective segments names for viewing.

AutoPIPE V8i 09.02.xx.xx to 10.x: On the Input Grids> Select the Segment Tab> "Show" column, toggle On / Off respective segments names for viewing.

AutoPIPE XM v.09.01.xx.xx and lower: View > Segments or View > Show all components will display all segments again

 

 

AutoPIPE V8i 09.02.xx.xx and higher:

 AutoPIPE XM v.09.01.xx.xx and lower:

 

Isolate and Show On-screen results for Segment B only

V8i Edition or later use new one-click toolbar icons to show/hide selected or unselected Segment. Isolate segments for editing and viewing results in large models.

Menu Equivalent: Edit > Segments > Hide Selected / Hide Unselected / Show All

Procedure: Select segment(s), press respective icon button on toolbar or use menu equivalent.
  

Working on Combined Structural & Piping models

Insert > Section Properties, select the steel sections from the libraries to be used in the model… called Section ID's

Insert > Frame, to insert a new beam into the model. Note: Beam assemblies can be copy/pasted into the model (connected or unconnected)…useful for independent pipe rack portal frames.

To Modify piping only, first turn off the Frame members using View > Hide Components (select Beam).

Alternatively make the beams transparent (However while good for viewing the beams can still accidentally be selected when modifying the piping)

Distance Calculator as a Productive Tool

Use the graphical distance calculator to check distances and clearances between pipe to pipe or pipe to structure
Tools > Distance or Select the distance icon on the View toolbar. Point and Click the TO and the From point. Don't have to enter the point name.

Note: The DX, DY, or DZ offsets can be read or copy/pasted to Excel or text file

Renumbering of Point Names

Renumber either by Segment or across the complete model using following menu (Toolbar icon also available):

1. 1. Select Edit > Renumber > Segment... to renumber a single Segment

      or

      Edit > Renumber > All Points to renumber the entire model

      

   2. If Segments was selected, a dialog appears for selecting which segment to be renumbered.
   3. Enter a pre-defined segment and then click Select.
   4. Click Finish

To change the point numbering options:

1. 1. Select Tools > Model Options > Edit. The Edit Model Options dialog appears.

      

   2. For the Default point name format, select either Alphanumeric or Numeric.
      
          Note: Alphanumeric is automatically by segment name (e.g. A00, A01, etc. for Segment A). This can be easier to identify different parts of the model later.

   3. Select the Replace all point names on renumber option if you want manually entered point names (e.g. PS01) to be renumbered as well.
   4. Click OK

Note: Use renumbering when lots of intermediate points are inserted into the model so numbering becomes sequential again

Utilizing the Move / Stretch Command 

New user are not aware of the power the come from the various Edit drop down listing, Like the ability to create a whole new pipe line adjacent to the existing one without having to insert each node point.

see the following Link: Move / Stretch Command

Inserting a new pipe segment based on another node point in the model

Insert a segment offset from any point or Origin, useful for building new branch pipeline or another pipe on a rack.

1. 1. Insert > Segment, DX = 2, B00 offset from point A13

      

   2. Insert Run DX = 4

      

   3. Insert > Run, 3 points @ 4' spacing

      
      

Create 2nd Pipe Run Similar To The First - Copy / Paste / Edit > Move Stretch

Users can select one point, or a range of points, and "stretch" the point or range of points, automatically changing cut lengths of the connections. Also, the Edit >Move Stretch can "slide" a component or group of components with or without changing the overall length of the system. This capability if very useful for "sliding" supports, valves, control station assemblies, expansion joint assemblies, frame assemblies from one position to another. Another good use is for pipe rack piping, copy/paste one line and offset from existing line then any changes in any direction can be made using Edit > Move /Stretch command.

 

Copy the segment then paste using the offset options shown below either from origin or from any other selected frame or piping point in the model.

 

Place cursor at B06 and insert a bend

Select range below & move DX = -2

Select Range below and move DZ = -2

Select Range below and DY = -2. It is done 2 parallel pipelines routed using copy/paste and move commands

 

Easy to understand Component Symbols

 

 

Rendered Support Graphics

Show Realistic Support Arrangements to Clients, Contractors or CAD Designers.

 Use transparent setting for pipe - Jacketed Piping 

Easily create the Jacket by using the graphical Select and copy / paste functions. Select the range of carrier pipe including valves, flanges, reducers etc and pasting then connecting back onto itself… covered in advanced training

Flanges

In AutoPIPE, Flanges are a 1 point element with no length i.e. considers only the flange weight and type of weld connection to pipe for SIF calculation. Yes, assuming flange stiffness is same as the pipe is technically incorrect because a flange is more rigid than pipe, but no, it doesn't affect analysis results to any significant extent in most cases. Cases you may wish to model the rigid length of the flange would be in a short stiff piping arrangement or close to equipment like pumps. If you want to input flange length, insert a pipe run and insert flanges at the mating point then select this short length and use Insert > Rigid options over Range (Include Weight = off, Include Thermal Expansion = off…pipe will be shown purple). AutoPIPE's flange screen has option to do ANSI flange loading check. 

3x Diameter or Larger Sweep Elbows

AutoPIPE's Bend Point dialogue screen (above example) has a Bend radius field which defaults to Long radius with pull down option for short radius. You can either select short radius or, for a large sweep elbow, click once on the Bend radius field and type the actual radius (units are in bottom right hand corner of screen)

Guide Support

A guide support in AutoPIPE is different than Caesar's guide element - it's equal to Caesar's 2 supports (guide and Y stop). In AutoPIPE, a guide supports the pipe in the vertical and lateral directions but not axial. Users can input gaps to remove vertical support or other directions if required. A guide support in AutoPIPE is always normal to the local pipe axis, so if the pipe is rotated the guide stays normal to the pipe which is very useful also when guides on skewed pipe.

Note: Large gap will not display the support symbol in that direction for convenience.

Inserting Valves, Reducers or other Components after Elbow or Tee

AutoPIPE does not allow users to insert a component directly after an elbow without first inputting a run point from the tangent intersection point to the end of the elbow. This means that there will be 2 points, a bend point and a run point, at the same location. This is not so unreasonable since AutoPIPE's elbow dimension is based on the tangent intersection point. For inserting valves and other components directly after a tee, AutoPIPE requires that the user first input a run of pipe after the tee before inserting the component to model the leg of the tee.

Tee Types

Quickly check Tee Types on the plot using the Show Tee button.

Three Way Valves

In putting three way valves in AutoPIPE is a bit convoluted at this time. AutoPIPE does not allow users to branch from a valve, so here is what you have to do: Divide the valve into 3 pieces, length and weight divided, and input them as separate valves, but put very short dummy runs of rigid pipe (select 'rigid' as pipe data identifier) in between the valves and at the branch.  Convert the run points to a Tee using the "convert run to tee" icon/button.

See below what it should look like:

Scale of Componnets

If you wish to change the scale of supports or other components for proffered viewing, you can do so from the View Settings dialog.

Viewports

Switch between Single / Double or Quad viewports to easily work in a view which is convenient then switch back to single view. Viewports are available for editing the model AND viewing results e.g. code stresses in plan, iso and elevation views as below:

Viewports are saved even when a model is closed and then re-opened.

 

Node Numbering:

Alphanumeric node numbering by segments - easy to identify which nodes relate to which parts / line numbers of the model. Adjust automatic numbering with Tools> Model Options> Edit> "Default point name format", "Default point name offset", and/or "Replace all point names on renumber" command options.

Undo / Redo command

Pipe Stress Work involves lots of Iterations, 99 levels of Undo / Redo are available at all times in AutoPIPE such that different support configurations can be tried and if stresses or equipment loads are worse then can easily revert back to some previous state. However, in other applications (i.e. Caesar) undo/redo is always lost when exit the INPUT module.

Note: AutoPIPE 2023 and lower has a Edit model option setting for number of Undo levels in a model. Ensure that this value is always higher than 0.Meanwhile, AutoPIPE 2024 and higher removes this user defined setting and hard codes the value of 99 into the program.

Distance Calculator as a Productive Tool

Use the graphical distance calculator to check distances and clearances between pipe to pipe or pipe to structure.

1. 1. Select Tools > Distance or click the distance icon on the View toolbar.
   2. Point and Click the TO and the From point. You don't have to enter the point name.
   3. The DX, DY, and DZ offsets as well as the straight-line distance are displayed in the status bar:

HINT: The DX, DY, or DZ offsets can be read or copy/pasted to Excel or text file

Graphical Point Editing

Caesar users are used to looking at the model, then reading and entering the point name. In AutoPIPE like CAD use point and click, point names are automatically taken care of.

Productivity Example - Add a Support

AutoPIPE	Caesar
Click on the Support Point Select Support Type (Friction & Gaps)	Look at the Graphic Plot & Read Point Name Go to the data sheet Click on the Restraint Option Enter the Point Name Select Support Type (Friction & Gaps)
2 way gaps permitted all supports Guide - Both Horiz. + Vertical	Only 1 gap permitted 2 supports required for Guide + Y

Wind Loads

When specifying elevations wind load profile, remember to check ground elevation is correctly defined on the main Wind screen. This applies also to wind loadings to ASCE-7 and UBC. Opening older models a warning message "negative elevations found" may indicate an incorrect wind loading across this model.

Comprehensive Automatic Code Combinations

VCR buttons allow fast navigation to sorted multiple maximum stresses across multiple stress categories including maximum sustained stress, thermal range and all occasional stress combinations which Caesar does not calculate automatically.

Code Combination Comparison

AutoPIPE Stress Plot	Caesar Stress Plot
Thermal case 1 to 4	What stress case is Row 18-21?
AutoPIPE Benefits: Clear Stress Plots Automatically Sorted Max Stress for all combinations Click & Point for all Results Automatic Thermal ranging & occasional stress combinations

 

If you want AutoPIPE to automatically create operating load combinations for support loads and displacements, go to Tools/Combinations and click the option Add default NonCode Combination, as shown below: Combinations for load cases are also created by default but can be unselected for printing

 

 

 

Create User Defined Combinations:

Select the Tools> Combinations to define a new, user-defined code or Non-code compliance combination or modify an existing one. A user-defined combination may consist of any existing load case and/or code compliance combination; however, a combination cannot be included in itself.

Example: Create a User defined Min / Max Combination for Support Loads and Deflections

Go to Tools >User Defined Comb. /NonCode menu. Give the combination name as e.g. Max Comb Combination method is 9 Sign Max (which ignores the sign of loads and deflections). Next, select the Case/comb for GR and your operating combinations, ignoring the theoretical loads of T1, W1, etc. Now check your output results for Support report, Deflections, or Restraint summary to see the new Max Comb results that you have created. See example below:

Note:

Sign Max and Res Max (Resultant Maximum) are 2 common methods to evaluating maximums from other load cases or combinations. Other methods used are Min and Max. See AutoPIPE online help for details on these features.

 

Share User Defined Combinations between Models:

In AutoPIPE, the combinations (code/non-code) for a model are stored in the *.cmb files. The option "Import combinations from file" allows the user to create the user combinations based on the user combinations from a different model. The option invokes a File Open dialog. The user can select a *.cmb file from a different model whose combinations are to be brought in the current model. The combinations can either be from code & non-code type.

Command location: Under Tools> Combinations> Combination Options> Import Combinations File 

 

Nonlinear Load Sequencing

Whenever you have a nonlinear analysis with gaps and/or friction, the sequence in which loads are analyzed affect analysis results because the "initial state" position is dependent on which loads were analyzed before. For example, Earthquake or Wind loads analyzed after T1 (wind hitting the operating position of the piping) may calculate different support loads than earthquake or wind loads calculated just after GR (wind hitting the ambient position of piping). When doing a nonlinear analysis, first select Loads > Static Analysis Sets and check the option "Non-Linear".

Also refer to Load_Sequencing.pdf in the AutoPIPE XM program folder

To define all non-linear options, modify the analysis set, and check the option "Gaps/Friction/Soil", Click OK and the next screen appears, select the operating case to use for occasional loads like wind or seismic.

 

For more complicated load sequences uncheck the "Use Default Sequence" box to modify the Load sequence and Enter or click OK.  See following screen shot:

  

Reference Point to Evaluate Equipment Loads

Insert > Xtra data > Reference Node

Works in either Global or local coordinate systems. So anytime the nozzle is at a skewed angle to the vessel and the allowable loads at the nozzle are given relative to the nozzle axis then use the local coordinate axis system

Note: Useful for evaluating in-line pump nozzles and manufacturer stated limits on vessels or equipment

AutoPIPE Result Grids

Provide powerful filtering and sorting of displacements, forces, support loads and stresses 

Powerful Result Filtering

This is a very powerful capability for isolating only the results you need. Example, using Result >Filter criteria/Support, you can generate a report which only shows that supports which exceed 7,000 lb. Vertical load, or have pipe deflections at the support point which exceed 5" in the X, 1" in the Y, or 4" in the Z. Result filters not only save lots of time, they prevent errors from slipping through the cracks. Result filters can be combined with graphical select (Example: output report contains only the points in the graphically selected range which exceed user defined deflection criteria).

You can also use the Result >Filter criteria to satisfy a flange analysis, often engineers want to evaluate highly loaded flanges e.g. flanges with stress > 7000 psi. Define the filter criteria as: Select Result/Filter criteria/Code stress, code stress option = checked, greater than 7000. Click OK will highlight all points meeting this criterion. Clear the selection set then Select/ flanges then Result output report, check both options "Limit results to highlighted points" & Apply Filter Criteria (Result >Filter) to create a flange report with stresses > 7000psi.

Familiarize yourself with this useful capability

Default Model Settings

When starting a new model, AutoPIPE CAE development team has predetermined a set of default settings that may be OK for some user but not for all. However, you may find that in every model that you are constantly updating the same settings for every model. Wouldn't it be nice if the program could save some default settings for when a new model is started.

Well it can using the following commands:

1. Save defaults command.

Help > Contents> Search Tab> enter "Save Defaults" (include the quotes), press List Topics button, double click on the selected topic from the list provided to see more information.

From online help: "Options which are saved in the defaults file (AUTOPIPE.DFL) include the General, Edit, and Results Tools/Model Options dialogs"

2. Tools> settings> Support>

Using these commands will save time adjusting settings when a new model is created.

However, there is another option, create a AutoPIPE template model file similar to what  most people do when using MS Word. To do this, first stat by creating a master folder for a project, create a new model, adjust all the model settings, create analysis sets, create combinations, insert commonly used pipe properties, insert soil properties etc... When completed, save the model using File> Model Management> Save Archive, with all options enabled (checked ON). This APC file is now your AutoPIPE start Template file.  

When a new model needs to be created, copy the *.APC file from the project file to a new folder, Start AutoPIPE, select File> Model Management> Open Archive, select the APC file in the correct folder location, BAM!!! all the setting, pipe properties, etc.. are all ready, saving loads of time entering the same values and increasing accuracy of data entered (less human error entering data) . 

Create as many template files as required for different projects.

Note: AutoPIPE V8i 9.5 and higher can import model Combinations from another model. See "Import Combination File" command in AutoPIPE's online help for more details on this feature.  

Understanding all the Model Option Settings

This is IMPORTANT!!!

AutoPIPE has a series of model settings that would aid in creation of a model, define the basic (control) parameters used for describing the piping model, user preferences, etc...

Each of the listed items below can significantly change the program's interface and the program's output results. The user is urged to review the online help for all of these settings in each section to understand their behavior and affects in AutoPIPE.

The following menu options are provided under Tools> Model Options:

General Model Options

When a new model database is created, the user is automatically prompted with the General Model Options dialog, which permits the user to define the basic (control) parameters used for describing the new piping model.

1. Project ID
2. Prepared by
3. Checked by
4. 1st Approver
5. 2nd Approver
6. Piping Code
7. Edition
8. Use Appendix P (B31.3)
9. Include ASME CC N-755-1 (HDPE)
10. Seismic Level
11. Lifetime (hrs)
12. Lifetime monitoring system
13. SIF Code
14. Units file name - Input: / Output
15. Vertical axis direction
16. Ambient temperature
17. Number of operating load conditions
18. Libraries - Component / Material

Description

Select Tools> Model Options> Model Description to display the Model Description dialog, which enables the user to enter approximately 2 page (about 8000 characters with spaces) description of the piping system.

GUID

Select Tools> Model Options> GUID to display the Model GUID dialog.  The Model GUID dialog displays the globally unique identifier or GUID associated with the model.  The GUID is required for the data exchange solution PipeLink, which requires a unique identifier for every AutoPIPE element and model

Edit Option

AutoPIPE allows the user to establish and save defaults for controlling parameters like the number of significant decimals to allow when defining offset values. To open the Edit Model Options dialog, select Tools> Model Options> Edit.

1. Digits after decimal for coordinates
2. Default point name format
3. Default point name offset
4. Replace all point names on renumber
5. Use feet-inches display format
6. Mass points per span
7. Cutoff frequency
8. Use corroded thickness in all analyses
9. Suppress analysis warning prompts
10. Ignore flange effect on bend stiffness
11. Distance L/D from flange/valve to bend
12. Include Bourdon rotational effect
13. Pipe radius for Bourdon calculation
14. Coincident Node Tolerance (0-no check)
15. Levels of Undo
16. Rigid stiffness factor
17. Flange bolt/nut weight factor
18. Support Rigid Stiffness - Translation & Rotation
19. Anchor Rigid Stiffness - Translation & Rotation

Model Result Options

The Tools> Model Options> Result command allows the user to customize system parameters which set the format for the batch report file (SYSNAME.OUT), the screen scale factor for deflected system plots (for interactive scanning, and pen plotter dumps), and various factors related to code stress calculations. 

1. Format (Node/Combin)
2. Force (Global/Local)
3. Include axial force
4. Overwrite output file
5. Use nominal thickness
6. Use nom. thk. for Hoop
7. Set SUS SIF =1 no bends
8. Single SIF at point
9. Set Sus/Occ SIF = 1
10. Set Sus/Occ = 0.75i
11. Include torsion
12. Single SIF at tees
13. Apply all K-factors
14. Include results desc
15. Include bend ovaling
16. Include hoop bending
17. Direct Shear (N/R/A)
18. Total stress(Oct/Max)
19. Apply modulus ratio
20. Apply tee summation
21. Sustain Margin (Y/N/E)
22. Use min. sustained margin
23. Long. Pressure (P/A/M/N)
24. Digits after decimal
25. Displacement Scale
26. Range reduction factor
27. Weld efficiency factor
28. Y Factor
29. Design factor F
30. Temperature derating factor
31. Design Pressure factor
32. Minimum Stress Ratio
33. Hoop safety factor
34. Long. safety factor
35. Shear allowable factor
36. Total allowable factor
37. Interm. stress points
38. No. of thermal ranges
39. Include Max Range comb
40. Use code case 178
41. Include Axial,Pcase in Sustained
42. Use Alt Occ Allowable
43. Apply circ w factor
44. Use theoretical Sec Mod
45. Show rigid tee stress

Additional Fields for B31.3 2010 edition.

1. 1. Set Occasional SIF=0.75i

Additional Fields for B31.4 Offshore and B31.8 Offshore.

1. 1. Hoop Design Factor - F1
   2. Long. Design Factor - F2
   3. Combined Dsgn Factor - F3

Additional Fields for CSA-Z662 Offshore.

1. 1. Func. Design Factor - F1
   2. Func+Env Dsgn Factor - F2

Additional Fields for SNiP 2.05.06-85 Oil & Gas.

1. 1. Use Axial in Hoop Allow

Additional Fields for EN13480 European code.

1. 1. Use min(f;fcr) for Hoop

Additional Fields for ISO 14692

1. 1. Set Hoop SIF = 1 (bends)
   2. Sustained Factor-f2
   3. Sus.+Thermal Factor-f2
   4. Occasional Factor-f2

Buried Pipe Result Model Options

The buried pipe result model options dialog is used to specify the options required in calculating soil overburden loads and through wall bending stresses. The dialog is divided into three tabs: General, Adams et. al. and HDPE Piping.

1. Circ. wall bending stress calculation method
2. Soil input parameters set to be used for calculations
3. Add Circ. Bending stress to Sustained
4. Use min(Sh-SL, Sh-f) as sustained margin
5. Ring Bucking allowable safety factor
6. ASCE 2001
7. Display circ. wall bending & ring buckling in code compliance
8. Thermal case used for seismic wave propagation load
9. SAM case combined with seismic wave propagation
10. Seismic + thermal allowable factor
11. Display seismic + thermal combinations in code compliance
12. Building settlement load case
13. Display building settlement category in code compliance

Save Defaults

The Tools> Model Options> Save Defaults command allows the user to save all customized system parameters in the current model as defaults for all newly created models in the current directory using the File/New menu option. Options which are saved in the defaults file (AUTOPIPE.DFL) include the General, Edit, and Results Tools> Model Options dialogs. If a new model is created in a working directory, the defaults file in the working directory will be used first. If the defaults file does not exist in the working directory, then the defaults file in the program directory (if existing) will be used instead.

See Also

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