After activating the RF‑PIPING add‑on module, a new toolbar is available in RFEM and the project navigator and tables are extended. The piping system is now modeled in the same way as the members. Pipe bends are defined simultaneously by tangents (straight pipe sections) and radius. Thus, it is easy to subsequently change bend parameters.
It is also possible to extend the piping subsequently by defining special components (expansion joints, valves, and others). The implemented libraries of structural components facilitate the definition.
Continuous pipe sections are defined as sets of piping systems. For piping loads, member loads are assigned to the respective load cases. The combination of loads is included in piping load combinations and result combinations. After the calculation, you can display deformations, member internal forces, and support forces graphically or in tables.
Pipe stress analysis according to standards can then be performed in the RF‑PIPING Design add‑on module. You only need to select the relevant sets of piping systems and load situations.
Graphical input of piping systems and piping components
Illustrative visualization of piping systems and piping components in RFEM graphic window
Comprehensive libraries for piping cross‑sections and materials
Comprehensive libraries for flanges, reducers, tees, and expansion joints
Consideration of piping structure (insulation, lining, tin‑plate)
Automatic calculation of stress intensification factors and flexibility factors
Specific piping action categories for load cases
Optional automatic combinatorics of load cases
Consideration of material properties (modulus of elasticity, coefficient of thermal expansion) either during operating temperature (default setting) or during reference (assembly) temperature of material
Consideration of strain and uplift due to pressure (Bourdon effect)
Interaction between the supporting structure and the piping system