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Although this simple equation is useful in determining the need for formal stress analysis, it does
have limitations. No general proof can be offered to assure that the formula will yield accurate or
conservative results. Users are advised to be cautious in applying it to abnormal configurations (such
as unequal leg U-bends with L/U greater than 2.5 or near-saw-tooth configurations), to large
diameter thin-wall pipe (stress intensification factors of the order of 5 or more), or to conditions
where extraneous motions other than in the direction connecting the anchor points constitute a large
proportion of the expansion duty.
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Chapter 3
f is the stress-range reduction factor presented in B31.3 Table 302.3.5 or equation (1c):
f = 6.0 (N-0.2) 1.0
Values are as follows:
Cycles N
7,000 and less
Over 7,000 to 14,000
Over 14,000 to 22,000
Over 22,000 to 45,000
Over 45,000 to 100,000
Over 100,000 to 200,000
Over 200,000 to 700,000
Over 700,000 to 2,000,000
Factor f
1.0
0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
SL is the longitudinal stresses to be discussed later in the Sustained Load Stress section in this
chapter.
An example of the application of the allowable stress range equation (1a) is as follows:
Example 3.2
Calculate the SA for a piping system constructed of ASTM A 106 Grade B pipe material used in 260C
(500F) service, and with a design life of 18,000 thermal cycles.
Solution: From B31.3 Table A-1 for ASTM A 106 Grade B
Sc = 138 MPa (20,000 psi), (at min. temp. to 38C (100F))
Sh = 130 MPa (18,900 psi), at 260 C (500F)
f = 0.8 (from B31.3 Table 302.3.5), then
Metric units
This piping system can be expected to operate safely provided the displacement stress range, SE, does
not exceed SA of 164 MPa (23,780 psi) and the number of thermal cycles is less than 18,000. (The
f factor although appropriate for the 18,000 cycles of this problem, is also suitable for 22,000 cycles as
shown in Table 302.3.5.)
The allowable stress range equation (1b) can be used as a design basis in place of equation (1a)
provided the longitudinal stresses due to sustained loads, SL, have been calculated for each
component and these longitudinal stresses are less than the hot allowable stress, Sh, (SL Sh).
CASTI Guidebook to ASME B31.3 - Process Piping - 2nd Edition