I want to know what is the meaning of Gaps input in Autopipe for Expansion joint tie rod?
What does a forward or a backward gap signifies?
Is forward gap always mean for tension purpose and backward for compression?
As I have heard, there will always be small gap in the tie rod for rotation in transverse direction. So, does this mean I have to input small gap always?
I tried to look at the help section of Autopipe but could not find definite answer.
Thank you
Hello Dipesh,
Please remember that there are 3 supports in AutoPIPE that have a forward / back gap setting:
Incline, Line Stop, and Tie link.
Incline and Tie Link support
Specify a gap forward to enable the supported point to move toward the connected to point established by the defined bearing spring direction (cosines), without generating a restraining reaction until the gap is closed. Specify a gap backward to enable the supported point to move away from the connected to point without generating a restraining reaction until the gap is closed.
Line stop support
Specify a gap forward to enable the supported point to move in a forward segment direction (local+x) without generating a restraining reaction until the gap is closed. Specify a gap backward to enable the supported point to move in the opposite direction (local-x) without generating a restraining reaction until the gap is closed. A large gap can be specified in order to model a one-way restraint.
Regards,
Mike DattilioBentley Product Advantage Group AnalystAutoPIPE Product Line Bentley Systems, Inc.===================================================
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Answer Verified By: Dipesh Khadka