scope:

WRC Bulletin 441summarizes development of a comprehensive static seismic analysis method for piping systems. The development of this method, commonly called the Load Coefficient Method is focused on two approaches. The first approach uses the site ground response spectra as input and the second approach uses the amplified or floor response spectra as input. The results of both approaches are compared to the Response Spectrum Modal Analysis Method, and the results are found to be conservative. Both approaches are presented, with emphasis on the second approach. The benchmark analyses, which serve as a basis for the method, are presented, discussed and summarized. In addition, an example problem for the second approach is provided. This work provides the technical basis for the Simplified Static Seismic Analysis Method, which was incorporated (in 1996) into Appendix N of Section III, Division 1 of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code