I am trying to convert a previous model from ADL Pipe to AutoPIPE. The previous model has two gap supports. It appears that ADL Pipe was able to analyze the model (Non-Linearly?) with the thermal case ONLY. When this scenario is transferred to AutoPIPE, the static analysis must consider gravity and thermal (because of the Non Linear approach).
Is there a way to model a gap support in AutoPIPE, completely ignoring any influence from gravity? Can gravity be set to zero for one load case?
I am concerned about thermal loading only for this part of my analysis. (Trying to benchmark the AutoPIPE thermal loads against those listed in the previous ADL Pipe model)
Greetings,
As you may already know, at this time, Dec 2022, AutoPIPE's linear analysis analyzes all of the load cases all at the same time. Another words, no one load cases depends on the others. However, if the analysis is to consider features like Gaps, friction, and soil then the analysis would need to run a Non-linear analysis. This type of analysis requires the load cases to be analyzed in a sequence. Gravity is always the first load cases applied, followed by the remaining load cases of the analysis in any order.
Please note that ADL Pipe was assimilated into AutoPIPE V8i 09.01.01.02, Nov. 2008. Since then AutoPIPE has undergone many, many, many, audits and passed most with no findings. Regardless, if you like to benchmark AutoPIPE with ADL Pipe by all means do so. Suggest that you compare results using a Linear analysis.
In the end, if you find a discrepancy please provide the information here (results are being challenged) proving where/how AutoPIPE's current version is wrong.
Regards, Mike Dattilio Design Analysis Engineering Group Senior Analyst Bentley Systems Inc=============================================================================