The Power User's Guide to COMPRESS
Work with Multiple ASME Section VIII Code Addenda 

Vol. 2, Issue 4 | August 2010
Dear Colleague,   
 
New ASME VIII projects typically require that you use the Addenda in force at the time your contract is signed. When re-rating existing vessels and exchangers the NBIC allows you to use either the ASME VIII (Div 1 or 2) Code of construction or the latest ASME Addenda. Whether you're dealing with new construction or re-rating existing equipment your company probably enters into new contracts every year, some of which may take years to complete. 
 
Since most companies work with more than one Code Addenda at the same time, COMPRESS includes a unique Multiple ASME Code Addenda Feature. This feature enables you to:
  • Work on projects spanning multiple years without needing multiple software versions installed. Design and re-rate equipment to different Addenda (1995 to present) from within the same COMPRESS release. 

  • Easily update older designs to be compliant with the latest ASME Edition/Addenda (ideal when providing re-order/replacement designs). 

  • Use the same COMPRESS version throughout your entire company. Take advantage of recent enhancements, like Longitudinal Seam Placement and Rigging Analysis, while still maintaining access to older Codes.  
Is this a standard feature? How do I change the ASME Code Edition/Addenda used?
The COMPRESS Addenda Selection Dialog
The COMPRESS Addenda Selection Dialog
Yes, the ability to switch between different ASME VIII Code Editions/Addenda (1995 to present) is available to all COMPRESS users. 
  1. When starting a new design COMPRESS defaults to the latest Code Addenda. To change the Edition/Addenda used select Codes  > ASME.

  2. Click "OK" to apply the selected Addenda to the open file only. Click "Save Defaults" to set the selected Addenda as your default for all new designs.

  3. For easy reference, the Code Addenda selected appears in the lower right task bar (if needed, the Addenda can be changed "on the fly" while designing).
 
More About the Multiple ASME Code Addenda Feature
 
In COMPRESS, once you've set the Addenda/Edition (single switch) everything else follows automatically. You do not need to remember to change several settings. Based on your selection COMPRESS automatically applies:
  • The Edition/Addenda's Code rules.

  • The allowable stresses from the corresponding Edition of Section II Part D (design factors change over time).

  • The ASME B16.5 and B16.47 flange materials and pressure ratings from the Edition specified in Table U-3 of Section VIII, Division 1 (materials and pressure ratings often vary slightly between Editions).
In "Design" mode, if any design changes are needed to keep your equipment in Code compliance, COMPRESS automatically makes the necessary adjustments (such as increasing the nominal thickness). In "Rating" mode no design adjustments are made but design deficiencies are noted.
 
 
If you don't have software that allows you to easily switch between Addenda, it's time to explore the benefits of COMPRESS. Find out more by emailing inquiries@codeware.com or calling (941) 927-2670.
 
Sincerely,
 
The Codeware Team  
 
 
The Power User's Guide to COMPRESS shows you how to save time and optimize your pressure vessel and heat exchanger designs. Suggest a topic for a future issue by emailing feedback@codeware.com. View past issues.