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The need of enhanced seismic analysis and design rules for petrochemical piping systems is widely recognized, where the allowable stress design method is still the customary practice. This paper presents an up-to-date performance-based seismic analysis (PBSA) of piping systems. The concept of performance-based analysis is introduced and a link between limit states and earthquake levels is proposed, exemplifying international code prescriptions. A brief review on seismic design criteria of piping systems is then provided by identifying the main critical issues. Finally, the actual application of the performance-based approach is illustrated through nonlinear seismic analyses of two realistic petrochemical piping systems

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The prevailing lack of proper and uniform seismic design guidelines for piping systems impels designers to follow standards conceived for other structures, such as buildings. The modern performance-based design approach is yet to be widely adopted for piping systems, while the allowable stress design method is still the customary practice. This paper presents a performance-based seismic analysis of petrochemical piping systems coupled with support structures through a case study. We start with a concept of performance-based analysis, followed by establishing a link between limit states and earthquake levels, exemplifying Eurocode and Italian prescriptions. A brief critical review on seismic design criteria of piping, including interactions between piping and support, is offered thereafter. Finally, to illustrate actual applications of the performance-based analysis, non-linear analyses on a realistic petrochemical piping system is performed to assess its seismic performance.