PIPO-FE: an Updated Computer Code to Evaluate Heat Exchanger and Steam Generator Flow-induced Vibration

Abstract

PIPO-FE is the latest version of a computer code that has been developed over the past 30 years to assess the flow-induced vibration of heat exchanger and steam generator tubes due to fluidelastic instability, random-turbulence excitation and vortex shedding. The code has recently been updated to include design guidelines prepared by Chalk River Laboratories of Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. and the Department of Mechanical Engineering of École Polytechnique, Montréal, and to estimate fretting-wear damage caused by random-turbulence vibration. This paper provides a general description of the updated code and includes examples to illustrate how the code can be used to support the design and modification of power plant heat exchangers and related research activities.