1. Basic Understanding and Setup
- Basic Routing: Understand how routing differs from traditional modeling. And why it's used to save time and reduce errors in system design?
- Routing Library Manager: Configure and manage component libraries (e.g., couplings, pipes, valves, pumps) to meet required standards and dimensions (Pipe Specifications).
- Connection Points: Define connection points (C-Points) on various equipment (pumps, tanks, valves) to enable the routing system to automatically connect pipes.
2. Converting from 2D diagrams to 3D layouts (P&ID to 3D)
- P&ID data import: Import data from 2D diagrams (P&IDs), which may be in XML or other compatible file formats.
- Equipment layout: Insert and position key equipment (pumps, tanks, valves) in 3D assemblies based on P&ID data.
- Auto-Routing / Semi-Automatic Routing: Use tools to automatically or semi-automatically create routes between equipment connection points.
3. Route creation and customization techniques.
- Start Route: Start creating a pipe route from a connection point.
- Auto-Insertion: Automatically inserts fittings such as elbows, tees, and flanges according to pipe specifications.
- Edit Route: Quickly modify 3D pipe paths (e.g., adding offsets, changing directions) and managing bend radii.
- Drag and Drop Component: Drag and drop additional components (e.g., valves or measuring devices) onto the pipe, allowing the program to automatically edit the pipe.
4. Documentation and Drawings for Manufacturing
- Bill of Materials (BOM): Accurately generate a Bill of Materials (BOM) table, including the required pipe length and the total number of fittings.
- Pipe Cut Lengths: Displaying the exact length of each pipe to be cut.
- Isometric Drawing: (If an add-on is available) Create isometric drawings for pipe installation and fabrication.
- Walkthrough and Clash Detection: Check for pipe interference with other machine parts or structures in the assembly to correct them before actual installation.
Software:
- SOLIDWORKS, SW
Specialized Functions:
- Routing, SOLIDWORKS, 3DLouting, Piping, Tubing, Cable Tray
Engineering/Manufacturing:
- P&ID, 3DLouting, PlantDesign, ProcessPiping, ProcessFlow, Isometrics
Skills/Management:
- BOM, PipeSpec, RouteDesign, ClashDetection, Drawing
SOLIDWORKS, Routing, Piping3DL, P&ID, PlantDesign, BOM, Isometrics
Figure 1: Converting from 2D P&ID to 3D Layout. This image demonstrates the key concepts of converting a complex 2D P&ID into a 3D model with clearly positioned equipment and pipes.
Figure 2: Automatic Route Creation and Component Insertion. This image focuses on the work in SOLIDWORKS Routing, showing the pipe route being created, along with the automatic insertion of fittings and valves.
Figure 3: Pipe and Equipment Route Customization. This image demonstrates editing and customizing the pipe route for greater efficiency. This may include dragging and dropping additional equipment or adjusting the pipe direction to avoid collisions.
Figure 4: Creating a Drawing with a BOM and Pipe Cut Lengths. This final image shows the complete 2D workflow from SOLIDWORKS Routing, including the Bill of Materials (BOM) and pipe cut lengths for fabrication and installation.
