How to model a support in AutoPIPE that is rigidly connect to a Tank / Vessel and prevents pipe from moving vertically down (support not rigidly connected to pipe). In addition, the support needs to move both vertically and horizontally with thermal expansion of the tank / vessel.
See updated sketch below and the equivalent AutoPIPE model here to properly incorporate the thermal expansion of the tank and its effects on the supports. Assumed that the pipe was not welded to frame support. If welded then join the frame directly to pipe center instead of placing a v-stop.
Beam Structure modeling
Bentley AutoPIPE