Software for Piping Flexibility Analysis

[arcpro]

We are in a process of evaluation of softwares available for piping flexibility analysis as we have to purchase one in some days.
How do you rate different available softwares like CAEPIPE, CAESAR and others based upon following parameters:
1. Ease of use (extensive training not required)
2. Detailing & reliability of results
3. Covering of different codes / standards
4. Any other you want to add

Would highly appreciate your inputs.

[ashfaqanwer]

I have used CAEPIPE which is easy to use with good detailing. Applied the same in almost three practical field problems and got solutions. It covers ASME B31.1 & ASME B31.3 also.

Do not know much about CAESAR.

[arcpro]

Thanks Ashfaq.
We are evaluating on our own also on demos available for CAEPIPE & CAESAR. Will sahre our experience.

[Usman Amin]

I am using CAESER II, but the same status, no knowledge about CAEPIPE. CAESER II also covers ASME B31.1 & ASME B31.3. Its additional feathers include
1. A small module for structural analysis accompanies with it.
2. CAESER II has very easy input method. Just give the inputs and draw the isometric sketch along with the pipe fittings, supports. Get the reports. It’s compatible with AutoCAD.

Important thing is to consider commercial aspects and Licensing. You can get more precise idea from any person from JGC.

[arcpro]

Thanks Usman for the inputs.
Which version of CAESAR you are currently using?
Currently, we are evaluating a same problem both on CAEPIPE & CAESAR. Lets see how the results would be.

Yes, we are looking after commercial impacts of both also.

[ashfaqanwer]

Thats a good idea of solving one same problem on both the softwares.
Do share your findings on the forums.

[Usman Amin]

We have CAESER II V4.5 but I have also used DEMO of V5.1. The basic difference which i felt is that in V4.5 u have to switch from input table to sketch, off & on to view and data entry. While in V5.1 U view your results while entering the data. In other words, there are two windows availbale simultaneously. We hvnt bought new version cz its cost alot for lisecing and we have limted use being process industry. We acquire services from JGC Descon ( Former) in case of a specified job.

One thing more, for smaller dia and low temperature these software are not used as per code requirement. For larger dia with high temp these hold good. U should consult flexibility criteria from B31.3, then u may conclude either u required these softwares or not. In my opinion, if u belongs to a process industry, u will find very limited applications in comparison to the investment. For training purpose its good.

Regards,

Usman Amin
PARCO

[arcpro]

I appreciate your comments, Usman.
Actually, we are a Technical Department responsible for three running petrochemical plants. Earlier on, we usually outsource all design modification jobs but now we are having enough of manpower and our management is interested in handling these modifications on our own.
We will definitely consider your valuable inputs.

[engr.abrar]

Best available softwares for flexibility analysis is CAESAR II and Autopipe. I recommend CAESAR II version 5.2 as it also incorporates flange joint analysis which in previous versions was not available. With respect to ease of use Autopipe has no match and it is also used for vibration analysis of piping systems.