Traditionally, process and surge flow analysis for piping systems rely on network models. These models simplify the complexity of piping systems but can make it difficult to see how they relate to the actual physical setup. BOSfluids addresses this issue by allowing you to model a piping system both as a network model and as a detailed 3-D model. This approach not only captures the precise geometry of the system but also allows for the inclusion of additional details that make it easier for both engineers and clients to connect the model with the real-world system. Furthermore, these detailed models are instrumental in assessing whether proposed modifications and mitigation measures are feasible and can be effectively implemented.
Here are some examples of engineering projects where the 3-D modeling capabilities of BOSfluids have been instrumental in bridging the gap between the piping model and the actual piping system. All these models shown have been created using only BOSfluids.
Design and Analysis of a Fire Water System on a Tank
This project focused on designing and analyzing a fire water system mounted on a large storage tank. Using the structural steel modeling capabilities of BOSfluids, it was possible to extend the piping model with a model of the stairway and platform surrounding the top of the tank. This enhancement not only proved to be useful when determining the routing of fire water system, but also when communicating with the client as images of the model are instantly recognizable.
Design of a Storage Tank Sprinkler System
In this project, the objective was to design a fire water sprinkler system that ensures adequate coverage over the tank’s surface. Incorporating a simplified staircase model allowed to determine how the firewater network should be routed around the staircase and how this routing affects the location of the sprinklers and their coverage of the tank surface. The latter can be checked at a glance when the sprinkler spray profiles are rendered in the model.
Analysis of a Pump Manifold
For this project, a model of a pump manifold was created to simulate various scenarios, including normal operation, pump start-up, and pump failure. The model included the relevant piping, structural steel support structures, the main platform, and a container mounted on the platform. This comprehensive model was essential for determining the placement of additional supports and understanding how fluid-induced forces impact the piping system’s structural behavior. It also facilitated clear and visual discussions of the analysis results with the client.
Coupled Fluid-Structure Analysis
This final example involved a coupled fluid-structure analysis of a pump station and its connected piping. Using a 3-D piping model and incorporating supporting structures was crucial for obtaining accurate results. While the fluid-induced forces could have been calculated with a network model, imposing them on the structural model would involve a large amount of manual and error prone work. Having a combined flow and structural model in a single BOSfluids model greatly helped to reduce the complexity of this project.
Conclusion
In conclusion, BOSfluids is a versatile solution bridging the gap between traditional network models and the tangible reality of piping systems. This integration not only facilitates better decision-making but also ensures that proposed changes and mitigation measures are both feasible and effective, ultimately leading to more reliable and efficient piping system designs.
Learn more about BOSfluids:
- BOSfluids: https://dynaflow.com/software/bosfluids/
- Training Course: Water hammer analysis using BOSfluids: https://dynaflow.com/training/courses/bosfluids/
- BOSfluids knowledge base: https://dynaflow.com/bosfluids-knowledge-base/
