Hi,
I am curious about snow load applied on pipes? I understand from the help desk how snow load is calculated from given density of snow and its height (if I choose density medium).
My question is: Is there any specific codes or books or reference I can use to determine maximum snow height and its density for a specific location? My focus is western Canada (British Columbia, Alberta) and South-Eastern USA (South Carolina, Florida, Alabama etc.).
Thank you.
Rasel
Hello Rasel,
Per typical ASME code,
Live Load. The live load consists of the weight of the fluid transported. Snow and ice loads shall be considered in localities where such conditions exist.
However the ASME codes do not indicate what reference to use for Snow loads.
From FEMA Snow load safety guide:
Currently, the International Building Code (IBC) is used throughout the United States for snow loads. States and/or local jurisdictions may amend or supplement the IBC or adopt their own code. The building code identifies the ground snow load, which building designers use as the starting point to calculate the uniform design snow load on a building roof. Ground snow load is defined as the weight of snow on the ground surface (IBC, 2012). Ground snow load values are established using data collected by the National Weather Service. Maps of ground snow loads in IBC and in ASCE 7 indicate a 2 percent probability of the indicated load being equaled or exceeded in any given year. Ground snow loads do not discount that actual snow loads may exceed them, only that the risk of snow-load-induced failure is reduced to an acceptably low level.
Therefore suggest that you contact the local building inspector where construction will take place and ask them what reference do they recognize for snow load. Also ask them what a 50 year or 100 year snow fall season would be. They may reference IBC, ASCE 7, National Weather Service, or other codes for your consideration.
Otherwise, recommend to search the internet for snow load calculators, some do request an address (example: click here).
Regards,
Mike DattilioBentley Systems Design AnalystDesign Engineering Analysis group===================================================
Answer Verified By: Rasel Sultan