About the Compass and Snaps

You can position pipe and pipe fittings in your model by choosing precise segment and fitting
locations or by setting up the program to calculate the fitting type and location.

A number of placement tools and settings are available to help you position pipe and pipe fittings,
including pipe grips and the compass.

Use Pipe Grips

You can route pipe from the open port of selected pipe using a Continuation grip. You can also use a
Move grip to locate and stretch pipe.

Use the Move grip at the end of a pipe segment to change the length of the selected pipe.

In addition to routing pipe, you can use the Continuation grip at an open port to add an elbow. If you
use a Continuation grip that is not at an open port, a branch is created.

Pipe segments have a branch Continuation grip in the middle of the segment. Pipe fittings also have
branch Continuation grips. For example: an elbow has a branch Continuation grip that allows you to
convert the elbow into a tee.

For more information about grips, see Plant 3D Grips.

Route Pipes Using the Compass

Use the compass to route pipe at precise angles.

Note:
The points that you specify using the compass are restricted to the routing plane. You can disable
the compass to specify a point that is not on the routing plane.

The compass displays tick marks on a circle. You can set the angle between tick marks, change the
size of the compass, or turn off the compass.

Note:
The compass snap increment is also used in response to the Specify Rotation Angle prompt (for
example: when using the rotation grip). You can disable the compass angle snap to use the exact
rotation specified.
When you add a fitting, the compass tick marks are set to match the available fitting angles in the
pipe spec.

You can set a tolerance angle to allow for slight angle variations when connecting pipe end to end,
or adding a fitting. For example: you can specify a 91 degree angle using a 90 degree elbow.

If you turn the tolerance angle on, the compass displays tolerance angle tickmarks. By default, the
tolerance angle is off.
 Offset Pipe Placement
When routing pipe, you can specify eight offset directions in addition to the center line. If you set the
offset to Bottom of Pipe (BOP), you can then specify support locations directly.

Offset is relative to your routing direction: it is not absolute. When you route pipe in a vertical
direction, the BOP alignment is relative to a wall. You can

• Set the alignment and the offset in the ribbon before routing pipe.
• Set or change alignment from the command line while routing pipe.
If you want to use object snap while offset routing to specify a point on a pipe, but do not want to
connect to the pipe, you can turn off plantoffsetconnect.

Precision Location
You can specify precise object snap points when Continuation grips are not available or not at a
desired location.

In general, if you want to connect to pipe when you are routing you use object snap to specify an
exact location.

You can use node or end object snaps to connect to the end of another pipe. If you want to connect
to a pipe at a right angle, use the perpendicular object snap. Use the near object snap to specify a
point that is on the pipe center line.

Note:
Use Node object snap to connect to nozzles.

For more information on object snaps, see Snap to Locations on Objects (Object Snaps).

You can use tracking to specify a point that aligns with another point. For more information,
see Track to Points on Objects.
You can enter a distance (pipe length) to specify the next point. For more information, see Enter
Direct Distances.

If you want to snap to an object and maintain your current elevation, you can use Elevation
Snap. For example, you can connect to vertical pipe.

Use Routing Solutions

If you specify connection and the endpoints are not in-line, AutoCAD Plant 3D can route pipe and
add fittings to complete the connection. You can choose from multiple solutions if multiple paths are
available.

You can create piping by specifying the start point, continuing from an open port, or converting
centerline objects into piping.

By default, the points you specify are on the center line of the pipe, but you can choose from a
number of alignments (for example: bottom of pipe). For more information about aligning pipes,
see Offset Pipe Placement.

Fittings (for example: elbows) are added when you change direction while continuing to route pipe
from the previous end point.

In addition to specifying the end point in the model, you can type a distance to specify the position of
the next fitting. For more information about the tools and procedures that help you place pipe at
exact locations see Precision Location.
When you change direction, you can pick a point that aligns with the next pipe segment. Pipe length
is cut back for the fitting.

As you add pipe segments, the pipe spec provides a list of fittings available to make the connection.
If more than one fitting is available, a default fitting is selected based on the part use priority. For
more information about fitting priority, see Modify Specs.

You can attach pipe to equipment nozzles using node object snap. Connection hardware (for
example: a weldneck flange, gaskets, and bolts) is added from the pipe spec, based on the size and
type of the nozzle.

You add a pipe using the ribbon, a Continuation grip, the spec viewer, the tool palette, or
the plantpipeadd command.

Create Pipe From a Centerline

It can be easier to draw a piping centerline than to route piping directly. You can convert a
centerline, which is drawn using AutoCAD objects, into pipe and fittings.

Sloped Piping
When you specify points for a pipe route at the same elevation, AutoCAD Plant 3D can roll or
cutback elbows to apply a desired slope.

A slope glyph displays in the compass to indicate piping is sloped while routing.
You can apply slope to pipe that is in the model using the plantpipeslope command.

About Piping Bends

Create pipe bends when routing or converting pipe.

You can create piping bends and returns that have an arbitrary radius. You can set the maximum
angle of a bend to create while routing. Setting plantmaxbendangle to 180 allows you to create a
return.

Pipe bends support dynamic input during routing.

Pulled Pipe (Single-component) Bends

Using pulled pipe bends you can route multiple bends without requiring welds between pipe and
bends.

You can specify whether you want to route using separate components (bends and elbows) or pulled
pipe in Project Setup.
Pipes and Bends connected with welds.

Pulled Pipe group.

You can also convert separate components (pipes and bends) and pulled pipe (group) after routing.

About Piping Bends

Create pipe bends when routing or converting pipe.

You can create piping bends and returns that have an arbitrary radius. You can set the maximum
angle of a bend to create while routing. Setting plantmaxbendangle to 180 allows you to create a
return.
Pipe bends support dynamic input during routing.

Pulled Pipe (Single-component) Bends

Using pulled pipe bends you can route multiple bends without requiring welds between pipe and
bends.

You can specify whether you want to route using separate components (bends and elbows) or pulled
pipe in Project Setup.

Pipes and Bends connected with welds.

Pulled Pipe group.

You can also convert separate components (pipes and bends) and pulled pipe (group) after routing.

Summary
Add pipe using the current pipe spec and size. Use object snap to connect to a nozzle or pipe. To
help routing pipe, you can change elevation, set an alignment direction and offset, and change the
routing plane. When you make a connection to another pipe, you can set stub-in mode to suppress
the use of branch fittings.

List of Prompts
Specify start point or [Size/SPecification/STub-in/Elevation/routingOffset]:

Current settings: Cutbackelbow=OFF Pipe Bend=<current> Stub-in=OFF

Specify next point or [pipeFitting/Size/SPecification/Plane/Cutbackelbow/Rollelbow/STub-

in/pipeBEnd/Elevation/routingOffset/connectionoffseT/Undo]:

Fitting-to-fitting mode is on. Piping components will be inserted without additional pipe. Specify
next point or [Fitting-to-
fitting/orieNtation/Insertionpoint/Replace/Size/SPecification/Plane/Cutbackelbow/STub-
in/pipeBEnd/Elevation/routingOffset/Undo]:

Pipefitting
Loads the Part Placement Dialog Box to place a piping component.

Size
Sets the size of the pipe. The size is available in the pipe spec and includes a unit indicator.

Nominal Size or [?]: Specify a nominal size including units, enter ?, or press Enter.

? - List sizes
Lists the nominal diameter of pipe available in the pipe spec.

Specification
Sets the pipe spec.

Pipe Specification or [?]: Specify a pipe spec, enter ?, or press Enter.

? - List names

Lists the pipe spec names.

Plane
Sets the routing plane. The p option allows you to specify a point that is at a different elevation
without interrupting routing to run the ucs or plan commands.
The routing planes toggle between the XY (plan), YZ (right), and ZX (front) planes and sets the
origin to match the current routing location.

If you want to specify a point in world coordinates, an additional p option sets the world
coordinate system (WCS).

You can also change the routing plane by holding down CTRL and right-clicking in the drawing.

Cutbackelbow
Toggles cutback mode. If cutback mode is on, you can specify an angle that is less than the
angle of the elbow you are adding. If cutback mode is off (the default), specify an angle to match
the elbow. Only fittings that have Plain or Beveled end types can be cutback.

Rollelbow
Rolls an elbow that is being added.

Specify next point for elbow angle: Specify an elbow angle.

Specify next point for roll angle: Specify a roll angle.

Elbow Angle
Sets the angle of the elbow type. This value is normally 45 or 90. When routing pipe, you
enter the r option before specifying the elbow angle.

Roll Angle
Rolls an elbow along the pipe axis. The angle is a twist along the pipe axis.

Stub-in

Toggles stub-in mode. If you are creating a branch using the continuation grip, setting stub-in
mode removes the branch fitting.

pipeBEnd
Toggles pipe bend mode. With pipe bend mode on, pipe bends are created instead of elbows
when you change direction while routing. You can use the substitution grip to convert a pipe
bend to an elbow and back.

Elevation
Sets the routing elevation. Pipe and fittings are added to maintain a connection to the new
elevation. You can toggle elevation snap to connect to vertical pipe at the current
elevation.

Enter absolute elevation or [Relative]: Specify an absolute elevation, enter R, or press Enter.

Relative
Specifies a distance that is relative to the current elevation.

Routing Offset
Sets a routing offset distance and direction.

Offset from [Top/Cop/Bop/TL/TR/cL/cR/BL/BR/offsetDistance] <Cop>: Specify an offset

direction or press Enter.

TL

Top of pipe, left offset.

Top

Top of pipe.

TR

Top of pipe, right offset.

Cop

Center of pipe, left offset.

Cl

Center of pipe (default).

cR

Center of pipe, right offset.

BL

Bottom of pipe, left offset.

Bop

Bottom of pipe.
 BR

Bottom of pipe, right offset.

Horizontal Offset <0">: Specify a horizontal offset distance or press Enter.

Vertical Offset <0">: Specify a vertical offset distance or press Enter.

Connection Offset
Specifies an off-center or tangential connection for stub-ins and olets.

Offset connection to [Toptangent/Bottomtangent/Distance]:

Top Tangent

Connects to top of pipe.

Bottom tangent

Connects to bottom of pipe.

Distance
Connects to a specified distance above the centerline. Enter a negative number to specify a
connection below the centerline.

Undo
Removes the last pipe segment or component added.

Fitting-to-fitting
Specifies that no piping is added from the current insertion point. When
Fitting to Fitting mode is set, you specify routing direction, not distance.

Fitting-to-Fitting on.
Fitting-to-Fitting off (normal).

Orientation
Sets the attachment port. You can use orientation to cycle through all
ports. For elbolets, the direction of the olet changes.

Note: You can press CTRL to change orientation.

Basepoint
Sets the insertion point of the component.

Inside (default) insertion point.

 Midpoint insertion point.

Outside insertion point.

Replace
Loads the Part Placement Dialog Box to change the piping component
specified with Pipefitting.

Videos

Piping (Part 1)

About Fixed Length Piping

You can specify the maximum length of pipe segments when routing in the 3D model.

Fixed-length pipe is useful when you create a 3D model using grooved, plain-end mechanical, and
flanged-end piping connections. You can download content packs that include AWWA, BPE,
Victaulic, and Resistoflex piping catalogs.

You can also set up welded piping as fixed-length piping. Fixed-length piping is enabled by selecting
the Use Fixed Length property in the piping spec.
If fixed-length piping is not specified (the default), joints are not placed in the 3D model for a single
length of straight piping. You can specify a field weld location (for example: using plantweldadd).
However, the maximum length of tubing is normally not considered until you generate an Isometric
drawing (along with the Iso Bill of Material).

Pipe Routing
When using pipe from a piping spec with fixed-length enabled, you route pipe just as you would with
any other spec (fixed-length disabled).

You can specify the same routing options (plantpipeadd), use the continuation grip, and so on. You
can also place components from the tool palette and connect them into the line. The most noticeable
difference is that when you route fixed length piping, as you exceed the Fixed Length property, the
3D modeler begins a new pipe segment and connects to the maximum length segment.

A mechanical or flanged connection commonly exists at the ends of each pipe segment. These
connections are similar to other connections. However, you may need to modify the joint
configuration settings in Project Setup to support the connections. You can also update the
project DefaultConnectorsConfig.xml following the installation instructions (readme) from a content
pack.

If a fixed-length pipe segment is at maximum length the pipe is not cut back.

For example, if you change direction when routing such that an elbow is added to the end of a
maximum length pipe, the overall dimension lengthens. This differs from other piping where routing a
turn will shorten (cut-back) the pipe segment to retain the centerline endpoint.

Orthographic drawings (Orthos)

You create Ortho drawings for fixed-length piping the same as you do for other piping, except that
you have an additional option for the Ortho BOM.

When creating an Ortho BOM for fixed-length piping, you can set up the BOM to report custom
length (shorter than the maximum length) on separate lines in Table Setup.

Isometric drawings (Isos)

Isometric drawings (Isos) for fixed-length piping is similar to other piping. However, fixed-length
piping frequently has end types that should be illustrated in the Iso drawing. This differs from plain,
welded, or threaded (BV, PL, THD) which do not display symbols to indicate the end type.

For example, resistoflex has flanged ends on both pipe and fittings, and BPE Tri-clamp displays
ferrules on piping. Iso drawings can display end types for both pipe and fittings.
Similar to an Ortho bill of materials (BOM), Iso BOM allows you to specify piping that is custom
length (shorter than the maximum length) on separate lines.

Ortho and Iso BOM

Bill of Materials reports allow you to list each length of fixed-length piping on a separate line item.
 For more information see Settings Tab (Table Setup Dialog Box).

Piping with an Existing status is no longer included in an Ortho BOM.

Stub-in connections now display the cut-back length in both the Ortho drawing and the 3D Model.

Parent topic: Fixed Length Piping

Related Tasks

• To specify fixed length piping in a spec (Spec Editor)

• To create fixed length piping
• To check if fixed length piping is set up in the 3D model

out Fixed Length Piping Specs

To enable the fixed-length pipe routing features in the 3D model, the piping spec must include pipe
with Use Fixed Length selected (true) and a Fixed Length value specified.

AutoCAD Plant 3D 2015 adds a new property: Minimum Cut Length. When routing pipe in the 3D
model, the minimum pipe segment length created is the Minimum Cut Length.
To better support Iso drawings, you can set Content Iso Symbol definition to include TYPE=PIPE-
FIXED and specify an SKEY that represents the end type.

In the Catalog Editor set Iso Symbol Type and Iso Symbol SKEY in the General Properties tab.

You can also set these values in the catalog and create or update the piping spec.

Note: Minimum Cut Length applies to all piping (not only to fixed-length). When piping is cut-back
while routing, the pipe segment is not cut back shorter than the minimum length.
 You can use the Spec Editor to set Use Fixed Length and Fixed Length properties in the project's
piping spec. The fixed-length properties must be set to enable the new fixed-length pipe routing
features.

The Minimum Cut Length property specifies the minimum pipe segment length created when routing
pipe. You can specify a different maximum (Fixed Length) and minimum (Minimum Cut Length) for
each size of pipe in the spec. The Fixed Length property is used when routing fixed-length pipe. The
Minium Cut Length specifies the smallest segment allowed (which is important to fixed-length piping,
but all piping is affected).

Note: Getting your project working with fixed-length piping can require modifying the piping spec,
and joint configuration in project setup. See To check if fixed length piping is set up in the 3D
model to help determine if your project is ready for fixed-length pipe routing.
Parent topic: Fixed Length Piping

Related Tasks

• To specify fixed length piping in a spec (Spec Editor)

• To create fixed length piping
• To check if fixed length piping is set up in the 3D model

About Placing Components and Valves

Pipe directional fittings can be added automatically as you route pipe. You can also choose piping
components from the piping spec.

When you route, elbows are added when you change direction. Tees, o-lets, and other fittings are
added when a branch is created. Flanges are added to pipe when connecting to another flanged
fitting.

Pipe fittings must belong to the pipe spec or must be created using the Custom Parts
Window. AutoCAD Plant 3D does not support attaching AutoCAD objects, such as block references,
into a pipe line. You must first convert them to Plant 3D objects. For more information on creating
block based components, see Create Block Based Piping Components.

Note: ANSI and DIN (Imperial and Metric) components can be connected, depending upon the
project configuration. Consult your CAD manager to see if ANSI/DIN connections are possible in
your project.
 Place Piping Components While Routing
Piping components can be placed while routing. Components can be placed at midpoints and port
locations.

Dynamic Input is supported when placing components from the spec viewer, tool palette, or when
using the component move grip. The component move grip also supports moving to another pipe
and changing the base point.

Using Fitting Grips

Fittings have a flip and rotation grip, in addition to all the grips available on a pipe segment. You can
orient a fitting by flipping and rotating using grips. For more information about grips, see Grips.

Erasing Connected Fittings

When you erase pipe or pipe fittings, the fittings and fasteners that were automatically placed are
also erased.

To delete only the selected fittings, hold the CTRL key when erasing.

Automatic Placement of Pipe Fittings

Pipe fittings are placed at joints when routing pipe and changing direction.

The pipe spec and project connector settings determine how fittings are selected when routing. The
pipe spec provides the part detail (including end type). The connector settings control what joint is
used to connect the parts. For more information, see About Configuring Piping Connections.

Parent topic: Piping Components

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Components

About Tapping Blind Flanges and Caps

You can tap blind flanges and caps.

You can route smaller pipe or place tapping components (for example: olets, couplings, and pipe
nipples) to connect to the face of a blind flange or cap.
Blind flanges and caps display a continuation grip that allows you to route smaller pipe to create a
tap connection. You can also specify a precise location on the face of the blind flange using the
nearest snap.

After the tap is created, you can use the move grip to change the location.

About Tapping Blind Flanges and Caps

You can tap blind flanges and caps.

You can route smaller pipe or place tapping components (for example: olets, couplings, and pipe
nipples) to connect to the face of a blind flange or cap.
Blind flanges and caps display a continuation grip that allows you to route smaller pipe to create a
tap connection. You can also specify a precise location on the face of the blind flange using the
nearest snap.

After the tap is created, you can use the move grip to change the location.

About Valves and Operators

You can place valves while routing pipe or place valves from the Spec Viewer or the tool palette.

Dynamic Input is supported when you place valves while routing pipe.

Fitting-to-fitting mode allows you to place adjacent valves without specifying points.

After you have placed the valve, you can pick a different valve using the Substitution grip on the
valve.
Valve Operators
Valves that support multiple operators are placed with a default operator such as a hand wheel or
hand lever.

You can replace the default operator with a cone, a cylinder, or remove the operator (none).

You can also override the operator to specify a parametric shape or an AutoCAD block.

Bolt Length Mapping

Standard bolt lengths are specified in the catalog. You can use the Spec Editor to open a catalog
and edit bolt length mapping.

In the 3D model, set the bolt compatible standard name in the properties palette.
Multiport (Hygienic) Valves

Multi-port (hygienic multi-level) valves used by the food, beverage, and pharmaceutical industries
are supported.

Valves and compatible piping are available from content packs in the Autodesk App Store. For
example, the Pharma content pack (which contains SS304, SS316L, and Alfa Laval valves) and
Tuchenhagen content packs are available for download.

You can also select multi-port valves in the Plant 3D Shape Browser to place custom parts.

Model
For multi-level valves, you can set the segment orientation in the model.

You can specify the angles of the second and third segment of a 3-level valve. For example, the
middle segment can be set to 180 and the bottom segment can be set to 270.
The Content Iso Symbol Definition must include TYPE=VALVE-MULTIWAY to set level angles in the
properties palette. Most spec-based components to not allow you to change dimensions so this is a
special case, which is enabled based on the TYPE.

Mixproof Valve Manifold

Multi-port (for example: mixproof shut-off valves) can connect directly to each other.

In the model, valves can be connected directly together to create a group of closely-coupled valves.

After orienting the second level, you can connect the ports directly together or use
the array command.

Orthographic Drawings
Orthographic drawings are supported and are commonly the primary documentation. Especially for
valve groups (skids).

Isometrics
Isometrics and PCF output supports VALVE-MULTIWAY using SKEY values matching MD** and
MZ** by default.

Dimensions between valves can be disabled in project setup for isometric drawings.
In Project Setup, you can turn dimensions off for valve groups.

Multi-port valve dimensions set to Length.

 Multi-port valve dimensions set to Off.

Parent topic: Piping Components

Related Tasks

• To work with multi-port (hygienic) valves

Related Reference

• Dimensions

About Component Properties

After pipe and pipe fittings have been placed in the drawing, you can move connected pipe and
change part properties.

If you modify the location, spec, or size of pipe, AutoCAD Plant 3D will attempt to retain pipe
connections. If you make a change that cannot be resolved, the connection is marked with a
property-mismatch glyph, or it is disconnected.

AutoCAD Plant 3D provides a number of tools you can use to modify pipe.

Substitute Parts
You can use the Substitution grip to replace compatible parts.
A compatible part has the same size and type (for example: you can substitute a gate valve with a
ball valve).

Using Alignment Lines to Help Move Pipe

You can use alignment lines as visual tools. When you select pipe in the drawing, alignment lines
display along the axis of connected pipe.

Alignment lines help you to identify connected pipe, and to determine which direction you can move
the pipe.

When you use a Move grip, you move the pipe axis and all connected parts that share the axis.
Conceptually, this is the same as stretching alignment lines with Ortho mode on.

Changing Part Properties

You can use the properties palette to change pipe and fitting properties.

You can change a part in the drawing by modifying the size or spec property. If you change a
part, AutoCAD Plant 3D can retain connections by adjusting adjacent fittings. For example: changing
the pipe size adds (or removes) reducers.

You can change the property value of multiple items at once. Selecting all connected items before
you change size or spec allows you to avoid temporary incompatibilities that can add unnecessary
fittings or cause disconnections.

For more information on selecting connected pipe, see Select Piping.

You can also change properties using the Data Manager.

Update a Pipe Spec

You can update the drawing when a change is made to a spec (extension .pspx) file.

Fitting geometry, material properties, and connection type (endcode) are set in the pipe spec. If a
part is unavailable in a spec, a placeholder part is used.

Parent topic: Piping Components

 ccess Methods
Command entry: plantfittingadd

Displays the Part Placement Dialog Box.

Specify insertion point or press Ctrl key to select next attachment port [Next]:

Specify rotation angle or [Plane]:

Specify point location or [Basepoint/orieNtation/baseComponent/Undo/eXit] <eXit>:

Object snap to pipe enables Specify point location options and dynamic dimensions.

Next
Specifies a different insertion point at a different port location. Additional insertion points are
available at port locations and center points for valves.

Topics in this section

• Part Placement Dialog Box

Places piping components.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• About Placing Components and Valves

Related Reference

• Commands for Pipe Routing

Moves and copies piping components. Dynamic input is supported.

Access Methods
Pointing device: move grip
This command is activated when PLANTGRIPEDITMODE is set to pipeline and you are using the
component move grip.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify point location or [Basepoint/orieNtation/baseComponent/Undo/coPy/eXit]:

Basepoint
Sets the Insertionpoint of the component.
 Orientation
Sets the Orientation of the component.

Base Component
Sets a new piping segment to move the component to. You can also set the base component by
moving the mouse over a new segment with osnap enabled.

Copy
Creates a new component. The selected component is not modified.

Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• About Placing Components and Valves

Related Reference

• Commands for Pipe Routing

Was this helpful?

PLANTSPECVIEWER

Displays the current pipe spec.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Part Insertion panel Spec Viewer

Command entry: plantspecviewer

Summary
In the Spec Viewer, you can view all parts available in the current spec. Insert parts from the
viewable spec into a Plant 3D model, or create custom tool palettes directly from the Spec Viewer.

Topics in this section

• Spec Viewer
You can use the Spec Viewer to view a spec sheet, and place items from a spec sheet into a piping
model.
Parent topic: P Commands
 Related Concepts

• Piping Specs

Related Reference

• Piping Spec Commands

Override Valve Operator Dialog Box

Specifies a valve operator.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Properties Palette Part Properties Valve Operator Operator

You can specify a different operator after the valve is placed in the 3D model. It is not necessary to
add the operator to a piping spec or catalog.

Select Operator Shape

Specifies a parametric shape for the operator.

Dimensions
Specifies the height and width of the operator.
 Note: You specify only height and width for parametric operators. Additional dimensions (for
example: dimensions for wheels and cranks) are calculated.

Use AutoCAD block

Specifies a block-based component if selected.

Import Block from DWG

Specify a drawing and displays the Select Block Definition dialog box.

You can import blocks from a drawing after using plantpartconvert.

Choose Block from Model

Selects a block reference in the model.

Parent topic: PLANTCUSTOMPARTS

Related Concepts

• About Instrumentation and Custom Components

Related Reference

• Commands for Instrumentation And Custom Components

Bolt Length Mapping Dialog Box

Sets bolt length ranges and increments in a catalog.

You can set bolt length ranges and increments for particular bolt sizes. The settings are saved as a
named standard. You can also set the default (unnamed) ranges and increments.

Bolt sets have a bolt-compatible-standard property that you can set to match the names listed here.

Note: Bolt sets have a BoltCompatibleStandard property, but other component types do not. Bolt
sets are chosen from the spec using the same criteria as other parts in a flanged connection by
matching properties (for example: Nominal Diameter, Pressure Class, Facing) and the part-use-
priority. The length map in the bolt set part catalog is referenced to specify final bolt length. The final
bolt length is the increment equal to or longer than the calculated bolt length.
Catalog
Specifies the name of the catalog to which bolt length mapping is saved.

Bolt Mapping Standard

Specifies the bolt mapping standard name and units.

Bolt Lengths
Modifies the bolt size and length. You can press the DEL key to remove a row. You can
specify a new bolt size and length in the bottom row (add a new row).

Note: To add multiple rows you can use the Add Bolt Standard dialog box and specify an
existing name.
Add Bolt Standard
Displays the Add Bolt Standard dialog box.
 Remove Bolt Standard
Removes a named standard. The default standard cannot be removed.

Parent topic: Catalog Editor

Related Concepts

• About Creating Catalogs and Copying Components

About Piping Connections

Fittings are chosen based on current spec file, and the joint settings in the project. The spec file
provides the list of available fittings, the priority order in which compatible fittings are selected from
the list (if there are multiple options), and the branch table.

An endcode describes the open end (port) of piping and equipment nozzles. For example, the
endcode of a buttweld elbow is BV (for Beveled). The endcode of an equipment nozzle is typically
FL (for Flanged).

You can use the Properties palette to view the endcodes of piping and nozzles in the drawing. You
cannot change the endcode using the Properties palette.

In general, you do not manipulate endcodes directly. They are a Read-only property of the part used
in the pipe spec or the equipment nozzle.

Default Endcodes

Endcode Description Example Joint (Match)

PL Plain End, Socket Male Socket Weld (SWF)

BV Beveled End Butt Weld

THDM Threaded Male Threaded (THDF)

Default Endcodes

Endcode Description Example Joint (Match)

THDF Threaded Female Threaded (THDM)

SW Socketweld Female Socket Weld (PL)

FL Flanged Flanged

WF Wafer Wafer flanged (FL)

LAP Lap Collar Lapped (PL)

GRV Grooved Grooved (PL)

SO Slip On Slip on weld (PL)

PPL Plastic Plain Fusionweld

PSW Plastic Socket Female Glue (PPL)

 Default Endcodes

Endcode Description Example Joint (Match)

LFL Lined Flange

LLP Lined Lap

LUG Lug Flanged (FL)

BELL Bell Bell and spigot (SPIG)

SPIG Spigot Bell and spigot (BELL)

TAP Tap Tap (PL)

Pipe adapts to different end connections. Plain, beveled, threaded male, and grooved end types are
all compatible and adjust to match the joint. For example, if a threaded elbow is connected to a pipe
that has a Port Property of PL for EndType1, the pipe end type connects as THDM.

Parent topic: Piping Connections

Related Tasks

• To connect adjacent piping

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Connections

 About piping branches

You can use the Continuation grip in the middle of a header pipe segment to begin routing a branch.

You can create a branch using object snap to route into another pipe.

For precise placement of the branch segment, you can select and move the branch fitting up or
down the header. The connected branch moves with the fitting.

The branch table in the pipe spec identifies the fittings (if any) and fasteners that are used when you
connect to another pipe. For example: a tee when connecting to a pipe of the same size, or an o-let
when branching to a smaller pipe. For more information, see Modify Branch Tables.

Parent topic: Piping Connections

Related Tasks

• To work with piping branches

About Welds and Stub-Ins

Create field welds, specify reinforcement pads, and set alignment for stub-ins.

Welds are created automatically as you route pipe. If you want to specify precise weld location and
type (for example: field weld) you can add a weld to pipe. You can also break long pipe into
segments such that the segments do not exceed a specified length (for example: 20').

Welds and reinforcement pads are subobjects of a connector. You can press Ctrl when selecting
welds to display properties and grips. For more information, see About Selecting Subobjects.
 When you create a branch connection, you can specify a stub-in. After the stub-in is created you can
add a reinforcement pad.

When connecting with a stub-in you align center lines by default.

You can also align the top or bottom of pipe when creating a stub-in while routing.

Parent topic: Piping Connections

Related Tasks

• To create a stub-in branch aligned with the bottom of pipe

• To create a reinforcement pad
• To create a field weld
• To create a stub-in branch
 Related Reference
About External Connections

Connect to objects created by other programs using Autodesk connection points.

You can connect piping to objects created by other programs including AutoCAD MEP and AutoCAD
Civil 3D using an Autodesk Connector (ACP) object that contains port information. You can also
create an ACP object to allow other programs to connect to AutoCAD Plant 3D piping and
equipment.

You can connect to ACP objects that are attached as an external reference (Xref).

ACP connector objects do not require object enablers from the program that created them to be
installed.

Parent topic: Piping Connections

Related Tasks

• To work with external connections

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Connections

About External Connections

Connect to objects created by other programs using Autodesk connection points.

You can connect piping to objects created by other programs including AutoCAD MEP and AutoCAD
Civil 3D using an Autodesk Connector (ACP) object that contains port information. You can also
create an ACP object to allow other programs to connect to AutoCAD Plant 3D piping and
equipment.

You can connect to ACP objects that are attached as an external reference (Xref).

ACP connector objects do not require object enablers from the program that created them to be
installed.

Parent topic: Piping Connections

ACPTOOLTIPS

Enables tooltips for connection ports (ACP).

 Parent topic: A Commands

Related Concepts

• About External Connections

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Connections

AUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Creates an Autodesk Connection Point (ACP).

Access Methods
Command entry: autodeskconnectionpoint

Summary
Autodesk Connection Point objects are used to support connections to objects created in other
programs.

You can create connection points on generic objects such as a 3dsolid. If you are creating
connection ports for Plant 3D objects such as an equipment nozzle or pipe you should
use PLANTINSERTAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT instead, which copies port properties.
List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Option [Insert/cHange direction/Edit/Connect/Disconnect/List/eXport]:

Pick an object to add the connection point to: Select the object to add the connection port to.

Pick the insertion point on the object: Specify the center of the port.

Pick the 1st point for the direction: Specify direction origin.

Pick the 2nd point for the direction: Specify direction.

Add Engineering Data [Yes/No]:

Insert
Creates a new connection port.

Change Direction
Changes the direction of an existing port.

Edit
Displays the Autodesk Connection Point Dialog Box.

Connect
Connects two connection points to form a paired connection. You can connect to a
connection point facing the opposite direction in an external reference (Xref). This marks
both as connected.

It is not necessary to use this option if you use plantroutepipefromacp.

Disconnect
Disconnects two connection points.

List
Displays property data for a connection point. You can list properties of a connection point in
an external reference.

Export
Exports connection port properties to an XML file.

Yes
Specifies that you can use the Edit option to set port properties (for example: size and end
type).

Parent topic: A Commands

 Related Concepts

• About External Connections

Related Reference
Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings
Tree Node)

Sets up simple and compound joint types. Also sets minimum pipe segment length, connector
display settings, and bolt rounding factors.
Note: In AutoCAD Plant 3D 2014 and later imperial-to-metric connections are enabled (or disabled)
for each joint type. You can modify joints, or add a new joints to set the imperial-to-metric value.

Simple joints
Imperial to Metric Connection (read-only)
Displays the imperial-to-metric setting for simple joints.

Add
Displays the Add Joint dialog box.
Modify
Displays the Modify Joint dialog box.

Delete
Removes a simple joint.

Compound joints
Add
Adds a joint using the Setup Compound Joint dialog box.

Modify
Modifies a joint using the Setup Compound Joint dialog box.

Delete
Removes a compound joint.

Pipe segments
Minimum length

Sets the minimum pipe segment length.

Weld gaps
Use weld gaps

When selected, a weld gap is used for new pipe. Existing pipe does not change.

Gap size
Sets the distance pipe is shortened when connected by a weld joint. This gap displays in the
model, and shortens the cut length property.

Weld dots
Diameter
Sets the size of weld dots and other connector objects (for example: a bolt set, or a threaded
joint marker). In the model, welded joints are connector objects that display as a solid circle.

Note:
The weld dot diameter sets the display size of all connector objects.

Wafer bolts
Round to the nearest
Increases (rounds up) the bolt length to match this increment. Bolt lengths for wafer joints
are calculated to include additional wafer components and gaskets.
 DefaultConnectorsConfig.xml
Some settings in saved in DefaultConnectorsConfig.xml are not displayed in this
dialog box. You can edit the file to specify the following options:

SlopeTolerance

The maximum angle allowed by a piping connection (without cutting back). The default is
three degrees which means 4 degrees cannot connect.

OffsetTolerance

The maximum offset allowed by a piping connection. The default is zero which means that
connections must be exact (node snap to ports).

Filter
Specifies the spec lookup criteria for simple joints. Filter cannot be applied to compound
joints.

Note: You can set MatchCondition in the Modify Joint dialog box.

Administrators Guide
The downloads are intended for Administrators and are available in English-
only.

tailoring_autocad_pid_and_plant_3d.pdf (pdf). See Joints on page 122.

Topics in this section

• Add Joint Dialog Box (Connections)

Adds a new joint type.
• Modify Joint Dialog Box (Connections)
Modifies a joint type.
• Setup Compound Joint Dialog Box (Connections)
Creates or modifies a compound joint type.
 • Setup Connection Component Dialog Box (Connections)
Sets the connection component or adapter for a compound joint type.
• Select Class Property Dialog Box
Selects a class property.
• Set Matching Values Dialog Box
Sets matching property values for a joint type.
Parent topic: Project Setup

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration
• Piping Connections

Related Reference
Add Joint Dialog Box (Connections)

Adds a new joint type.

Shortcut menu: Project Manager Right-click a project icon Click Properties.

Command entry: projectsetup

List of Options
Note: In AutoCAD Plant 3D 2014 and later imperial-to-metric connections are enabled (or disabled)
for each joint type. You can modify joints, or add a new joint to set the imperial-to-metric value. If you
enable imperial-to-metric components, an imperial-to-metric connection is required for that joint
type.

The following options are available in this dialog box.

Joint name
Specifies the new joint name. The name can contain only letters (for example
ButtweldReinforcementRing).

Display Name
 Can contain spaces and non-letter characters.

This joint connects imperial to metric components.

Selecting a checkbox in this column specifies that the joint connects Imperial (ANSI) and
Metric (DIN) components.

If you also want to support connections between same-unit components, use the Add Joint
dialog box to add a second joint with similar properties (for example: add MixedButtweld
similar to Buttweld).

Joint types that support imperial to metric connections are distinct from same-unit joint types.
This allows you to specify matching properties such as 150#, 10PN.

Connection settings
Specifies the end types that the joint connects and the fasteners (if any) that are used.

End 1
Specifies one or more end types (side 1).

End 2
Specifies one or more end types (side 2).

Property matches
Required
If selected, the joint cannot be created unless property values match. When clear, the
property match is optional. If an optional value does not match, you are asked for permission
to connect before the joint is created.

Add Property
Displays the Select Class Property dialog box.

Matching Values
Displays the Set Matching Values dialog box.

Delete
Removes the property.

Fasteners
Fasteners

Optional. Specifies the weld type or items that are used to hold the ends together.

Spec Filter
 Specifies matching properties for a fastener that is in the spec. For example, a Gasket can
specify Facing. This option is not enabled for fasteners that are not in the spec (for example:
welds).

Note: If the spec contains multiple fasteners of the same type (for example: more than one
gasket) it is recommended that you specify a spec filter.

Add
Adds the simple joint type.

Parent topic: Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings
Tree Node)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration

Related Tasks

• To enable Imperial to Metric connections for simple joints

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Configuration

Modify Joint Dialog Box (Connections)

Modifies a joint type.

List of Options
Note: In AutoCAD Plant 3D 2014 and later imperial-to-metric connections are enabled (or disabled)
for each joint type. You can modify joints, or add a new joint to set the imperial-to-metric value. If you
enable imperial-to-metric components, an imperial-to-metric connection is required for that joint
type.

The following options are available in this dialog box.

Joint name
Specifies the new joint name. The name can contain only letters (for example
ButtweldReinforcementRing).

Display Name
 Can contain spaces and non-letter characters.

This joint connects imperial to metric components.

Selecting a checkbox in this column specifies that the joint connects Imperial (ANSI) and
Metric (DIN) components.

If you also want to support connections between same-unit components, use the Add Joint
dialog box to add a second joint with similar properties (for example: add MixedButtweld
similar to Buttweld).

Joint types that support imperial to metric connections are distinct from same-unit joint types.
This allows you to specify matching properties such as 150#, 10PN.

Connection settings
Specifies the end types that the joint connects and the fasteners (if any) that are used.

End 1
Specifies one or more end types (side 1).

End 2
Specifies one or more end types (side 2).

Property matches
Required
If selected, the joint cannot be created unless property values match. When clear, the
property match is optional. If an optional value does not match, you are asked for permission
to connect before the joint is created.

Add Property
Displays the Select Class Property dialog box.

Matching Values
Displays the Set Matching Values dialog box.

Delete
Removes the property.

Fasteners
Fasteners

Optional. Specifies the weld type or items that are used to hold the ends together.

Spec Filter
 Specifies matching properties for a fastener that is in the spec. For example, a Gasket can
specify Facing. This option is not enabled for fasteners that are not in the spec (for example:
welds).

Note: If the spec contains multiple fasteners of the same type (for example: more than one
gasket) it is recommended that you specify a spec filter.

Modify
Modifies the simple joint type.

Parent topic: Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings
Tree Node)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration

Related Tasks

• To enable Imperial to Metric connections for simple joints

Related Reference
Setup Compound Joint Dialog Box (Connections)

Creates or modifies a compound joint type.

This joint connects imperial to metric components.
Selecting a checkbox in this column gives specifies that the joint connects Imperial (ANSI)
and Metric (DIN) components.

End 1

Specifies one or more end types (side 1).

Connection Component
Displays the Setup Connection Component dialog box.

End 2
Specifies one or more end types (side 2).

Parent topic: Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings Tree Node)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Configuration

 Was this helpful?
Setup Connection Component Dialog Box (Connections)

Sets the connection component or adapter for a compound joint type.

Plant 3D Class
Specifies the component or adapter used in the compound joint.

Required Property Matches

 Specifics the property matches.

Parent topic: Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings Tree Node)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration

Select Class Property Dialog Box

Selects a class property.

Class
Sets the class to list properties for.

Properties

Selects the property name.

Parent topic: Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings Tree Node)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
 • 3D Model Configuration

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Configuration

Set Matching Values Dialog Box

Sets matching property values for a joint type.

Matching values
Identifies compatible property values. You can add values separated by a comma on each
line (for example: 125, 150) to indicate a match.

If matching imperial and metric values, specify the first value as imperial and the second
metric. For example: 4,100 for size, or 150,10PN for pressure class.

Parent topic: Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings Tree Node)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration

Related Reference

Summary
Use the PLANTCONNECTJOINT command to connect adjacent pipe and fittings. You can connect
only those pipe components that have open ports. The open ports must be in-line and at the same
location.
If a connection cannot be made when routing pipe, you can display an error message that explains
why the joint is not created.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select component
Selects a pipe component with an open port that you want to connect.

Select adjacent component

Selects the adjacent pipe component.

If a connection can be made, a connector object (for example: a Buttweld) is added and the open
port markers are removed. If a connection cannot be made because of a property mismatch, the
property values are listed in a dialog box.

Topics in this section

PLANTDISCONNECTJOINT

Disconnects two joined components by removing the fasteners.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantdisconnectjoint

Summary
Disconnect a joint by selecting a connector object. You can use a window to select a connector
object.

List of Prompts
The following prompt is displayed.

Select objects
Selects one or more connector objects. Connector objects are small (for example: a weld
dot). To see them inside pipe you can set the 2D wireframe visual style.

PLANTCONNECTJOINT

Connects two adjacent components with a new joint.

 Access Methods
Command entry: plantconnectjoint

Summary
Use the PLANTCONNECTJOINT command to connect adjacent pipe and fittings. You can connect
only those pipe components that have open ports. The open ports must be in-line and at the same
location.

If a connection cannot be made when routing pipe, you can display an error message that explains
why the joint is not created.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select component
Selects a pipe component with an open port that you want to connect.

Select adjacent component

Selects the adjacent pipe component.

If a connection can be made, a connector object (for example: a Buttweld) is added and the open
port markers are removed. If a connection cannot be made because of a property mismatch, the
property values are listed in a dialog box.

Topics in this section

• PLANTDISCONNECTJOINT
Disconnects two joined components by removing the fasteners.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Connections

PLANTCONNECTJOINT

Connects two adjacent components with a new joint.

 Access Methods
Command entry: plantconnectjoint

Summary
Use the PLANTCONNECTJOINT command to connect adjacent pipe and fittings. You can connect
only those pipe components that have open ports. The open ports must be in-line and at the same
location.

If a connection cannot be made when routing pipe, you can display an error message that explains
why the joint is not created.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select component
Selects a pipe component with an open port that you want to connect.

Select adjacent component

Selects the adjacent pipe component.

If a connection can be made, a connector object (for example: a Buttweld) is added and the open
port markers are removed. If a connection cannot be made because of a property mismatch, the
property values are listed in a dialog box.

Topics in this section

• PLANTDISCONNECTJOINT
Disconnects two joined components by removing the fasteners.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Connections

PLANTDISCONNECTJOINT

Disconnects two joined components by removing the fasteners.

 Access Methods
Command entry: plantdisconnectjoint

Summary
Disconnect a joint by selecting a connector object. You can use a window to select a connector
object.

List of Prompts
The following prompt is displayed.

Select objects
Selects one or more connector objects. Connector objects are small (for example: a weld
dot). To see them inside pipe you can set the 2D wireframe visual style.

Parent topic: PLANTCONNECTJOINT

Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

PLANTEDITAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Modifies Autodesk Connection Point (ACP) properties.

Access Methods
Command entry: planteditautodeskconnectionpoint

Summary
Displays the Autodesk Connection Point Dialog Box.

Topics in this section

• Autodesk Connection Point Dialog Box

Modifies Autodesk Connection Point (ACP) properties.
• PLANTROUTEFROMAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT
Route piping from an Autodesk Connection Point object.
Parent topic: P Commands
Parent topic: PLANTINSERTAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT
 Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

• About External Connections

Autodesk Connection Point Dialog Box

Modifies Autodesk Connection Point (ACP) properties.

You can display connection point properties that are in an Xref, however they are read-only.

Property Name
Lists Domain, Connection Status, and the names of engineering properties.
 Value
Displays values for properties. A connection port created
with plantinsertautodeskconnectionpoint has a Domain value of P3D.

Parent topic: PLANTEDITAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Related Concepts

• About External Connections

• About Piping Connections

PLANTROUTEFROMAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Route piping from an Autodesk Connection Point object.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Insert tab Autodesk Connection Point panel Route Pipe from Point

Command entry: plantroutefromautodeskconnectionpoint

Summary
Route piping from objects created with other programs such as AutoCAD MEP.

List of Prompts
Select an Autodesk connection point: Select an ACP object.

Parent topic: PLANTEDITAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Related Concepts

• Piping Connections

Related Reference

• Commands for Piping Connections

PLANTDISCONNECTJOINT

Disconnects two joined components by removing the fasteners.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantdisconnectjoint
 Summary
Disconnect a joint by selecting a connector object. You can use a window to select a connector
object.

List of Prompts
The following prompt is displayed.

Select objects
Selects one or more connector objects. Connector objects are small (for example: a weld
dot). To see them inside pipe you can set the 2D wireframe visual style.

Parent topic: PLANTCONNECTJOINT

Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

PLANTCONNECTJOINT

Connects two adjacent components with a new joint.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantconnectjoint

Summary
Use the PLANTCONNECTJOINT command to connect adjacent pipe and fittings. You can connect
only those pipe components that have open ports. The open ports must be in-line and at the same
location.

If a connection cannot be made when routing pipe, you can display an error message that explains
why the joint is not created.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select component
Selects a pipe component with an open port that you want to connect.

Select adjacent component

Selects the adjacent pipe component.
 If a connection can be made, a connector object (for example: a Buttweld) is added and the open
port markers are removed. If a connection cannot be made because of a property mismatch, the
property values are listed in a dialog box.

Topics in this section

• PLANTDISCONNECTJOINT
Disconnects two joined components by removing the fasteners.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

Add Endcode Dialog Box

Adds endcodes.

You can manage endcodes using the Manage Endcode Dialog Box.

Endcode name
Names the endcode you are adding. The name cannot contain numbers or spaces.

Description
Describes the endcode.

Can cutback
Enables cutback mode (Cutbackelbow). You can specify an angle that is less than the angle
of the component (for example: elbow) you are connecting to.

Flange like
Specifies that a bolt set is expected.

Wafer like
Specifies a single bolt set for a connection assembly.
 Note:

Endcodes are saved to the installation of AutoCAD Plant 3D, they are not saved to the
Project.

Manage Endcode Dialog Box

Adds or modifies joint endcodes.

Enter plantendcodes at the command line.

Use the Manage Endcode dialog box to add endcodes, change a description, or remove an
endcode.

Note:

Endcodes are saved to the installation of AutoCAD Plant 3D, they are not saved to the Project.

Endcode name and description

Displays the list of endcodes and descriptions.
 Add
Adds a new endcode and description.

Modify
Changes an endcode description.

Delete

Removes the endcode.

Modify Endcode Dialog Box

Modifies an endcode description.

You can manage endcodes using the Manage Endcode Dialog Box.

Endcode name
Read-only. You cannot change the endcode name.

Description
Describes the endcode.

Parent topic: PLANTENDCODES

Related Concepts

• About Piping Connections

PLANTPIPEADD

Routes piping and inserts components.

Access Methods

Ribbon: Home tab Part Insertion panel Route Pipe

Command entry: plantpipeadd

Summary
Add pipe using the current pipe spec and size. Use object snap to connect to a nozzle or pipe. To
help routing pipe, you can change elevation, set an alignment direction and offset, and change the
routing plane. When you make a connection to another pipe, you can set stub-in mode to suppress
the use of branch fittings.

List of Prompts
Specify start point or [Size/SPecification/STub-in/Elevation/routingOffset]:

Current settings: Cutbackelbow=OFF Pipe Bend=<current> Stub-in=OFF

Specify next point or [pipeFitting/Size/SPecification/Plane/Cutbackelbow/Rollelbow/STub-

in/pipeBEnd/Elevation/routingOffset/connectionoffseT/Undo]:

Fitting-to-fitting mode is on. Piping components will be inserted without additional pipe. Specify
next point or [Fitting-to-
fitting/orieNtation/Insertionpoint/Replace/Size/SPecification/Plane/Cutbackelbow/STub-
in/pipeBEnd/Elevation/routingOffset/Undo]:

Pipefitting
Loads the Part Placement Dialog Box to place a piping component.

Size
Sets the size of the pipe. The size is available in the pipe spec and includes a unit indicator.

Nominal Size or [?]: Specify a nominal size including units, enter ?, or press Enter.

? - List sizes
Lists the nominal diameter of pipe available in the pipe spec.

Specification
Sets the pipe spec.

Pipe Specification or [?]: Specify a pipe spec, enter ?, or press Enter.

? - List names
 Lists the pipe spec names.

Plane
Sets the routing plane. The p option allows you to specify a point that is at a different elevation
without interrupting routing to run the ucs or plan commands.

The routing planes toggle between the XY (plan), YZ (right), and ZX (front) planes and sets the
origin to match the current routing location.

If you want to specify a point in world coordinates, an additional p option sets the world
coordinate system (WCS).

You can also change the routing plane by holding down CTRL and right-clicking in the drawing.

Cutbackelbow
Toggles cutback mode. If cutback mode is on, you can specify an angle that is less than the
angle of the elbow you are adding. If cutback mode is off (the default), specify an angle to match
the elbow. Only fittings that have Plain or Beveled end types can be cutback.

Rollelbow
Rolls an elbow that is being added.

Specify next point for elbow angle: Specify an elbow angle.

Specify next point for roll angle: Specify a roll angle.

Elbow Angle
Sets the angle of the elbow type. This value is normally 45 or 90. When routing pipe, you
enter the r option before specifying the elbow angle.

Roll Angle
Rolls an elbow along the pipe axis. The angle is a twist along the pipe axis.

Stub-in

Toggles stub-in mode. If you are creating a branch using the continuation grip, setting stub-in
mode removes the branch fitting.
pipeBEnd

Toggles pipe bend mode. With pipe bend mode on, pipe bends are created instead of elbows
when you change direction while routing. You can use the substitution grip to convert a pipe
bend to an elbow and back.

Elevation
Sets the routing elevation. Pipe and fittings are added to maintain a connection to the new
elevation. You can toggle elevation snap to connect to vertical pipe at the current
elevation.

Enter absolute elevation or [Relative]: Specify an absolute elevation, enter R, or press Enter.

Relative
Specifies a distance that is relative to the current elevation.

Routing Offset
Sets a routing offset distance and direction.

Offset from [Top/Cop/Bop/TL/TR/cL/cR/BL/BR/offsetDistance] <Cop>: Specify an offset

direction or press Enter.

TL

Top of pipe, left offset.

Top

Top of pipe.

TR

Top of pipe, right offset.

Cop

Center of pipe, left offset.

Cl
 Center of pipe (default).

cR

Center of pipe, right offset.

BL

Bottom of pipe, left offset.

Bop

Bottom of pipe.

BR

Bottom of pipe, right offset.

Horizontal Offset <0">: Specify a horizontal offset distance or press Enter.

Vertical Offset <0">: Specify a vertical offset distance or press Enter.

Connection Offset
Specifies an off-center or tangential connection for stub-ins and olets.

Offset connection to [Toptangent/Bottomtangent/Distance]:

Top Tangent

Connects to top of pipe.

Bottom tangent

Connects to bottom of pipe.

Distance
Connects to a specified distance above the centerline. Enter a negative number to specify a
connection below the centerline.

Undo
Removes the last pipe segment or component added.

Fitting-to-fitting
Specifies that no piping is added from the current insertion point. When
Fitting to Fitting mode is set, you specify routing direction, not distance.
Fitting-to-Fitting on.

Fitting-to-Fitting off (normal).

Orientation
Sets the attachment port. You can use orientation to cycle through all
ports. For elbolets, the direction of the olet changes.

Note: You can press CTRL to change orientation.

Basepoint
Sets the insertion point of the component.
Inside (default) insertion point.

Midpoint insertion point.

Outside insertion point.

Replace
Loads the Part Placement Dialog Box to change the piping component
specified with Pipefitting.
 Videos

Piping (Part 1)

PLANTINSERTAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Creates an Autodesk Connection Point (ACP) at an open port.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Insert tab Autodesk Connection Point panel Insert
Command entry: plantinsertautodeskconnectionpoint

Summary

Use AutoCAD Plant 3D properties to create an Autodesk Connection Point object that another
program (for example: AutoCAD MEP) can connect to.

List of Prompts
Pick an object: Select a Plant 3D object.

Pick an open point: Specify a port location.

Topics in this section

• PLANTEDITAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT
Modifies Autodesk Connection Point (ACP) properties.

PLANTREMOVEORPHANFASTENERS

Removes fasteners that are no longer part of a joint.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantremoveorphanfasteners

Summary
Checks the drawing for disconnections caused by changes made to external references. If orphaned
(disconnected) fasteners are discovered during the check they can be removed.

Note:

This command is run automatically when you open a project drawing.

PLANTROUTEFROMAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Route piping from an Autodesk Connection Point object.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Insert tab Autodesk Connection Point panel Route Pipe from Point

Command entry: plantroutefromautodeskconnectionpoint

Summary
Route piping from objects created with other programs such as AutoCAD MEP.

List of Prompts
Select an Autodesk connection point: Select an ACP object.

Parent topic: PLANTEDITAUTODESKCONNECTIONPOINT

Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings

Tree Node)

Sets up simple and compound joint types. Also sets minimum pipe segment length, connector
display settings, and bolt rounding factors.
Note: In AutoCAD Plant 3D 2014 and later imperial-to-metric connections are enabled (or disabled)
for each joint type. You can modify joints, or add a new joints to set the imperial-to-metric value.

Simple joints
Imperial to Metric Connection (read-only)
Displays the imperial-to-metric setting for simple joints.

Add
Displays the Add Joint dialog box.
Modify
Displays the Modify Joint dialog box.

Delete
Removes a simple joint.

Compound joints
Add
Adds a joint using the Setup Compound Joint dialog box.

Modify
Modifies a joint using the Setup Compound Joint dialog box.

Delete
Removes a compound joint.

Pipe segments
Minimum length

Sets the minimum pipe segment length.

Weld gaps
Use weld gaps

When selected, a weld gap is used for new pipe. Existing pipe does not change.

Gap size
Sets the distance pipe is shortened when connected by a weld joint. This gap displays in the
model, and shortens the cut length property.

Weld dots
Diameter
Sets the size of weld dots and other connector objects (for example: a bolt set, or a threaded
joint marker). In the model, welded joints are connector objects that display as a solid circle.

Note:
The weld dot diameter sets the display size of all connector objects.

Wafer bolts
Round to the nearest
Increases (rounds up) the bolt length to match this increment. Bolt lengths for wafer joints
are calculated to include additional wafer components and gaskets.
 DefaultConnectorsConfig.xml
Some settings in saved in DefaultConnectorsConfig.xml are not displayed in this
dialog box. You can edit the file to specify the following options:

SlopeTolerance

The maximum angle allowed by a piping connection (without cutting back). The default is
three degrees which means 4 degrees cannot connect.

OffsetTolerance

The maximum offset allowed by a piping connection. The default is zero which means that
connections must be exact (node snap to ports).

Filter
Specifies the spec lookup criteria for simple joints. Filter cannot be applied to compound
joints.

Note: You can set MatchCondition in the Modify Joint dialog box.

Administrators Guide
The downloads are intended for Administrators and are available in English-
only.

tailoring_autocad_pid_and_plant_3d.pdf (pdf). See Joints on page 122.

Topics in this section

• Add Joint Dialog Box (Connections)

Adds a new joint type.
• Modify Joint Dialog Box (Connections)
Modifies a joint type.
• Setup Compound Joint Dialog Box (Connections)
Creates or modifies a compound joint type.
 • Setup Connection Component Dialog Box (Connections)
Sets the connection component or adapter for a compound joint type.
• Select Class Property Dialog Box
Selects a class property.
• Set Matching Values Dialog Box
Sets matching property values for a joint type.
Parent topic: Project Setup

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• 3D Model Configuration
• Piping Connections

PLANTWELDADD

Adds a weld to pipe.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantweldadd

Summary

Adds a weld to a specified location on pipe. You can also automatically add welds after setting a
maximum pipe segment length.

Buttweld and Fusion Weld fastener types are supported by default. You cannot place welds onto
fixed-length piping, or piping that has male and female end types (for example: Mechanical joints,
Bell and Spigot).

Dynamic tracking is supported. This allows you to place the weld a precise distance from a fitting
similar to plantfittingmove.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.
 Select pipe segment to add weld to or [Type, autoplacement Distance]: Select pipe that has a BV,
PL, or PPL end type.

Specify point location or [Base component, Autoplacement, Undo, eXit]: Specify weld location on
pipe.

Specify weld type [Shop, Field, field fiT]: Specify the weld type.

Select pipe endpoint to start from or [Autoplacement, Undo, eXit]: Specify end of pipe.

Set Auto placement distance for autoplacement <20'>:

Autoplacement

Adds one or more welds at a fixed pipe segment length.

Autoplacement Distance
Sets the maximum pipe segment distance between welds.

Base Component
Specify a different location to track from if dynamic input is enabled.

Type
Sets the Shop/Field property for new welds.

Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

System Variables

PLANTCONNECTIONMARKER

Toggles the display of the disconnect marker.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 1

0 Hides disconnect markers

 1 Displays disconnect markers

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

PLANTWELDDISPLAY

Toggles the display of connection markers.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0

0 Hides connection markers such as weld and glue markers

1 Displays connection markers

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

About Instrumentation and Custom Components

You can create and add parts to a pipe line that are not in the pipe spec.

Custom components can be parametric or block-based.

After a custom component is added to the line, you can modify properties in the properties palette.
Dimensions are modified in the properties palette for parametric components.
 Spec components and Non-spec components
Piping components that are not in the pipe spec are either custom parts or placeholder parts. A
custom part does not have a relationship with a pipe spec. A placeholder part is added when the
pipe spec is not complete.

In addition to direct placement, placeholder parts can be created during a spec update if a part is
orphaned from a spec. This problem occurs when an incompatible change is made to the part size,
or if the part is removed from the pipe spec.

You can add three types of components to a pipe line:

• Catalog part. A part that is added from a catalog to the pipe spec. Most components are catalog
parts.
• Placeholder. An object that is temporarily used until the part is added to the pipe spec. After the part
is added to the pipe spec, you can use the substitution grip to update it.
• Custom part. A part that is not available in the catalogs, and will not be added to the pipe spec. For
example, a specialty item or instrument.
When an item is added to the pipe spec, the part geometry is copied from the catalog to the pipe
spec. Custom and placeholder parts are drawn with simplified geometry.

PLANTCUSTOMPARTS

Creates custom components and instrumentation.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Part Insertion panel Custom Parts
Command entry: plantcustomparts
 Summary
You can create and connect a part to a pipe line that is not in the pipe spec. A custom part is not
available in the catalogs, such as a specialty item or instrument. A placeholder part is used until the
required part is added to the spec.

List of Options
Displays the Custom Parts Builder.

Topics in this section

• Custom Parts Builder

Creates custom and placeholder parts.
• Override Valve Operator Dialog Box
Specifies a valve operator.
• Plant 3D Shape Browser dialog box
Specifies a shape for a parametric component.

PLANTPARTCONVERT

Converts an AutoCAD block to a piping component by adding ports.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantpartconvert

Summary
You can convert an AutoCAD block to a block-based piping component by specifying port locations
and directions. After ports are set, you can use the block in the Custom Parts Window to create a
block-based component.
The port indicator displays port location and orientation for custom piping components.

You can also add the block-based component to a catalog. After the component is added to a
catalog, you can add it to a spec. For more information, see Catalog Editor - Create New
Component (Block Based).

Valve Operators (Actuators)

When creating a valve actuator, set the insertion point of the actuator to match the insertion point of
the valve body. In plantpartconvert, select the actuator block and use the Exit option. Because an
actuator has no ports, you do not use the Add option.

If you set block object color to BYBLOCK, the component supports automated layer and color
assignment.
Pipe Supports

Block-based pipe supports have a single port that aligns with piping centerline.

List of Prompts
Select block to convert. Select an AutoCAD block or a converted part.

Choose modification for port [Add/Delete/Move/eXit]:

Choose modification for port [Flip/Undo/Accept]:

Accept
Saves port edit changes following an Add, Move, or Delete.

Add
Adds a port to the part. You add one or more ports to a part.

Delete
Removes a port.

Exit
Saves changes and ends the command.

Note:

On exit, XML and PNG files are created in the drawing folder. These files are required when creating
a block based component from the drawing. If you copy the drawing to another location, include
these files.

It is highly recommended that you save the current drawing immediately after Exit. Saving
guarantees that the supporting XML and PNG files match the DWG.
 Flip
Reverses the port direction. Ports should face outward. Port direction is needed to support a piping
connection. Port direction does not indicate process flow.

Move
Specifies a different port location. Use this option when the default location is not correct.

Undo
Saves changes to the port following an Add, Move, or Delete.

Videos

Specs and Catalogs Editor (Part 3)

PLANTSPECUPDATECHECK

Checks for changes made to spec files that are in use in a drawing.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantspecupdatecheck

Summary
You can check for changes to a pipe spec that is used in a 3D model. If changes are discovered,
you can update the model.

Note: This command can run automatically by setting

the plantspecnotify and plantspecnotifytime system variables.
Topics in this section

• Dimensional Spec Update

Checks for dimensional changes made to spec files that are in use in the drawing.
• Spec Update Check Dialog Box
Checks for changes made to spec files that are in use in this drawing.

Select a Pipe Spec

When you are routing pipe and adding pipe fittings or valves to a model, you start with a pipe spec.

A 3D piping model is spec-driven; it references piping components listed in a pipe spec. When you
work with piping in a 3D model, the pipe spec provides the material, rating, and connection details.
Spec files are created using the Specs and Catalogs Editor. For more information about pipe specs,
see Introduction to Specs and Catalogs.

In combination with the project joint settings, the pipe spec determines which fittings and fasteners
are used when connecting and routing pipe. For example: it specifies the socket weld fittings for pipe
under 3”. Each pipe segment and fitting in the model originates from a pipe spec, except for custom
parts.

Create a Tool Palette from a Spec

You can add frequently used parts to the tool palette. Before you can insert parts from the tool
palette, you first add the parts to the tool palette.

You add parts to the tool palette using the Spec Viewer or by dragging a part from the model to the
tool palette. You can also create a tool palette for the parts by right-clicking an existing tool palette
and clicking New Palette.

See Work With Specs in a Plant 3D Model to add parts to the tool palette.

PLANTDYNAMICTOOLPALETTE

Loads the dynamic pipe spec tool palette from the current spec.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantdynamictoolpalette

Summary
You can enable or disable the dynamic pipe spec tool palette.
List of Prompts
The Dynamic Pipe Spec Tool Palette is currently <enabled>.

PlantDynamicToolPalette [Enable/Disable]:

Enable
Displays the current spec in the tool palette.

Disable
Do not use the dynamic tool palette. You can create and customize a static piping
component tool palette using the spec viewer. This behavior is compatible with AutoCAD
Plant 3D 2011.

PLANTMODIFYSHAREDCONTENTFOLDER

Sets the catalog file folder and migrates from earlier versions to AutoCAD Plant 3D if necessary.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantmodifysharedcontentfolder

Summary
Displays the Modify Shared Content Folder dialog box.

Topics in this section

• Modify Shared Content Folder Dialog Box
Sets the catalog file folder and migrates from earlier versions to AutoCAD Plant 3D if necessary.

PLANTSIZEDISPLAYMODE

Displays component size only in project units or in both Imperial and metric units when the project
and component units differ.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Part Insertion panel Toggle Size Display Mode

Command entry: plantsizedisplaymode

Summary
You can toggle the display to show only project units or both project and native units where the two
differ. In mixed-unit project, the native unit is shown in parentheses, for example, in a mixed-unit
Metric project, you would see 100 (4”).

PLANTSPECVIEWER

Displays the current pipe spec.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Part Insertion panel Spec Viewer
Command entry: plantspecviewer

Summary
In the Spec Viewer, you can view all parts available in the current spec. Insert parts from the
viewable spec into a Plant 3D model, or create custom tool palettes directly from the Spec Viewer.

Topics in this section

• Spec Viewer
You can use the Spec Viewer to view a spec sheet, and place items from a spec sheet into a piping
model.

PLANTSPECNOTIFYTIME

Sets the time interval that spec files are checked for updates.
 Type: Integer

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 2

0 Checks for spec file updates only when the drawing loads

1-4 Sets the time interval (in hours) that spec files are checked for updates. The first check is
made when the drawing loads

The Data Manager

The Data Manager provides a window onto your Plant data. You can view, modify, export, and
import drawing and project data, and generate reports using the Data Manager.

By default, the Data Manager is docked in the drawing area. You can undock it and float it, or anchor
it to the top or bottom of the drawing area. You can also make the Data Manager transparent or use
auto-hide to conserve desktop space.

Parent topic: Data Manager

Related Concepts

• About Data Manager Views

 Related Tasks

• To work with Data Manager Views

• To locate a plant object in a drawing and the Data Manager
• To edit Data Manager information
• To place linked annotations in a P&ID drawing from the Data Manager
• To work with columns in the Data Manager
• To hide or show Data Manager tree view nodes
• To work with filters in the Data Manager
• To display a data manager customized view
• To view read-only and property acquisition data

To work with Data Manager Views

To view current drawing data

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

2. In the Data Manager, in the drop-down list, click Current Drawing Data.

To view P&ID project data

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

2. In the Data Manager, in the drop-down list, click P&ID Project Data.

To view Plant 3D project data

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

2. In the Data Manager, in the drop-down list, click Plant 3D Project Data.

To view Project Reports

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

2. In the Data Manager, in the drop-down list, click Project Reports.

To view data by area or object type

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.
2. In the Data Manager, in the status bar under the tree, click Order by Area or Order by Object Type
from the drop-down list.

To view customized views in the Data Manager

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

2. In the Data Manager, in the drop-down list, click the appropriate customized view.

To turn Auto-hide on and off for the Data Manager

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

2. In the Data Manager, right-click the title bar. Click Auto-hide.

To make the Data Manager transparent

1. Make sure that hardware acceleration is disabled.

Note:
For information about how to disable hardware acceleration, see To Tune Performance Manually in
the AutoCAD Help system.

2. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Data Manager.

3. In the Data Manager, right-click the title bar. Click Transparency.
4. In the Transparency dialog box, move the slider to specify the percentage of transparency. Click OK.

To synchronize the Data Manager with symbols and annotations in a

P&ID drawing

• In the Data Manager, on the toolbar, click Synchronize PID Symbols and Annotations.

To refresh data in the Data Manager

• In the Data Manager, on the toolbar, click Refresh.

Parent topic: Data Manager
 Related Concepts

• About Data Manager Views

Related Tasks

• To locate a plant object in a drawing and the Data Manager

• To edit Data Manager information
• To place linked annotations in a P&ID drawing from the Data Manager
• To view read-only and property acquisition data

Customized Views

The Data Manager tree view displays your data arranged in hierarchy chosen by your administrator.

The data view displays the properties of a selected item.

Export Data Dialog Box

Exports the current project or drawing data to a Microsoft® Excel spreadsheet or to comma-
separated value (CSV) files.

Toolbar: Data Manager

Shortcut menu: Data Manager tree view in Project Data or Drawing Data mode Right-click
a data node Export
Select Export Settings
Lists the available export settings for the project.

The default value is Displayed Data, which is the data currently displayed in the data view of the
Data Manager. Project Administrators can configure custom settings in Project Setup Export and
Import Settings.

Note:

Displayed Data is available only for customized or area Data Manager views.

Include Child Nodes

Specifies whether to include child nodes in an export.

Active Node and All Child Nodes

The export includes the selected node and all child nodes below it.

Active Node Only

The export includes only the selected node.

Enter File Name and Location for Exported Data

Displays the file path and file name used during the export process. Provides a default file path
and file name, which you can accept or change.

Click Browse to open the Export To dialog box, where you navigate to a new folder, specify a
new file name, and choose the output file format for the exported files.
Export Data Dialog Box

Exports the current project or drawing data to a Microsoft® Excel spreadsheet or to comma-
separated value (CSV) files.

Toolbar: Data Manager

Shortcut menu: Data Manager tree view in Project Data or Drawing Data mode Right-click
a data node Export

Select Export Settings

Lists the available export settings for the project.

The default value is Displayed Data, which is the data currently displayed in the data view of the
Data Manager. Project Administrators can configure custom settings in Project Setup Export and
Import Settings.

Note:

Displayed Data is available only for customized or area Data Manager views.

Include Child Nodes

Specifies whether to include child nodes in an export.

Active Node and All Child Nodes

The export includes the selected node and all child nodes below it.

Active Node Only

 The export includes only the selected node.

Enter File Name and Location for Exported Data

Displays the file path and file name used during the export process. Provides a default file path
and file name, which you can accept or change.

Click Browse to open the Export To dialog box, where you navigate to a new folder, specify a
new file name, and choose the output file format for the exported files.

Import From Dialog Box

Imports a Microsoft® Excel spreadsheet or comma-separated value (CSV) files into the Data
Manager

Toolbar: Data Manager

Shortcut menu: Data Manager tree view Right-click a data node Import

Look In
Specifies the folder containing the file to import.

File Name
Specifies the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet or CSV file name.

Files of Type
Sets the file format for importing data or report files.

Open
Opens the Import Data dialog box or the Sheet Selection dialog box, depending on whether you are
importing project or drawing data or a project report.

Import Data Dialog Box

Imports a Microsoft® Excel spreadsheet or comma-separated value (CSV) files containing the
project or drawing data.

Toolbar: Data Manager

Shortcut menu: Data Manager tree view in Project Data or Drawing Data mode Right-click
a data node Import

Select File to Import

Displays the file path and file name to import. You can accept or change the current file path and file
name.

Click Browse to open the Import From dialog box, where you can select a different file path or file
name to import.
Select Import Settings
Lists the available import settings for a drawing or project.

The default value is Displayed Data, which is the data currently displayed in the data view of the
Data Manager. Project Administrators can configure custom settings in the Project Setup dialog
box Export and Import Settings.

Note:

You cannot modify the Displayed Data export setting.

Project Report Selection Dialog Box

Specifies the type of report to import when importing a comma-separated value (CSV) file.

Toolbar: Data Manager

Shortcut menu: Data Manager tree view in Project Reports mode Right-click Project
Reports node Import

Select Project Report to Import

Specifies the type of report to import when importing an Excel spreadsheet or CSV file.

DATAMANAGERCLOSE

Closes the Data Manager.

Access Methods
Command entry: datamanagerclose

Summary
Any changes you make in the Data Manager are automatically saved before you exit.

DWFOUTPUTSETTINGS
 Specifies the type of Plant data that you can include in DWF output files.

Access Methods
Command entry: dwfoutputsettings

Summary
The DWF Output Settings Dialog Box is displayed.

Use the DWF Output Settings dialog box to view and select the object properties and sheet
properties to include with a published DWF file.

P&ID DWF Output Settings Dialog Box

Topics in this section

• Object Properties Tab (P&ID DWF Output Settings Dialog Box)

Displays a list of object properties you can include in a published DWF file.
• Sheet Properties Tab (P&ID DWF Output Settings Dialog Box)
Displays information that you can attach to sheets in the published DWF file.

Object Properties Tab (P&ID DWF Output Settings Dialog Box)

Displays a list of object properties you can include in a published DWF file.

Command entry: dwfoutputsettings

The Object Properties tab is divided into two panes. The left pane is the class tree. The right pane is
the properties list.

Class tree
The class tree displays a list of nodes for all items that can be added to a project or all items
that currently exist in a project.

Note:
You can select only one node in the class tree at a time.

A shortcut menu for selected nodes offers two options.

• Select All in Sub-Tree. A quick method to include all properties of the current node and its
related sub-nodes. This option mimics the Select All button in the properties list.
• Clear All in Sub-Tree. Quickly clears all the properties of the current, controllable node and
its related sub-nodes. This option mimics the Clear All button in the properties list.
Engineering Items Properties
The properties list displays the properties for the currently selected class node. For each
node, the properties fall into two categories: properties inherited from the parent node (gray),
and properties belonging to the currently selected node (white).
 Inherited properties are always listed first and cannot be changed unless you select a node
that is higher in the class tree. For instance, if you did not want to include the Weight
property shown in the illustration above, you’d have to select the Equipment node in the tree.

The properties list also includes the following two buttons:

• Select All. Enables all the properties belonging to the currently selected node.
• Clear All. Clears all the properties belonging to the currently selected node.
Show Classes with Items Only
Controls the display of items in the class tree. When active, the tree only shows nodes for
items that exist in the project. Otherwise, the tree displays a complete list of nodes as seen
in the Project Setup dialog box.

Restore to Default
Restores the default DWF Output settings in case you’ve made changes and want to return
to the original settings.

Note:
You can set the P&ID DWF output settings only when a project is open.

By default, all the properties of the Engineering Items and Non-Engineering Items trees are
included.

Sheet Properties Tab (P&ID DWF Output Settings Dialog Box)

Displays information that you can attach to sheets in the published DWF file.
The Sheet Properties tab is also divided into two panes with the project tree on the left and
the properties list on the right.

Project Tree
The project tree on the Sheet Properties tab displays data for two nodes only.

• Project Details. Contains a list of categories as specified on the Project Setup dialog box,
Project Details pane.
• Drawing Properties. Contains a list of categories as specified on the Project Setup dialog
box, Drawing Properties pane.
Project Details
The project list displays the properties for the currently selected category in the project tree.

The project list also includes the following two buttons:

• Select All. Enables all the properties belonging to the currently selected category.
• Clear All. Clears all the properties belonging to the currently selected category.
By default, all the properties of the “Project Details” and “Drawing Properties” categories are
included.
 Any settings you make in the DWF Output Setting dialog box are set for the current design
session only. Whenever you open a design session, the default settings are used.

About Sharing Drawings

You can share your project drawings by sending them over the Internet, printing them, or publishing
DWF or DWFx files.

You can package a project so you can send it digitally or include all supporting documents in an
archive. When creating a transmittal, you designate drawings and related files, such as external
references (xrefs) and fonts, to include in the transmittal. You can also specify file formats, folder
structures, and instructions to the recipient. You create the transmittal package outside of the project
environment.

For more information, see “Package a Set of Files for Transmission” in the AutoCAD Help system.

Project drawings can be plotted individually or published outside the Project Manager environment.
However, these operations do not recognize the folder structure set up in the Project Manager.

For more information, see “Plot and Publish Drawings” in the AutoCAD Help system.

Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• FAQ: Managing Files Remotely

Related Tasks

• To set DWF or DWFx output settings

• To set DWF publishing options
• To transmit drawings
• To set up a transmittal package
• To unpack a self-extracting executable transmittal package

Export To AutoCAD Dialog Box

Exports a P&ID drawing to an AutoCAD drawing file format.

Shortcut menu: Project Manager Right-click drawing Export to AutoCAD

Command entry: exporttoautocad

Look In
Specifies where to save the exported drawing.

File Name
Specifies the name of the new drawing file.

Files of Type
Sets the file format for the exported drawing. Options are:

AutoCAD 2007/LT 2007 Drawing (*.dwg)

Use AutoCAD 2007 or AutoCAD LT 2007, or later, to view or edit the exported drawing.

AutoCAD 2010 Drawing (*.dwg)

Use AutoCAD 2010 to view or edit the exported drawing.

Save
 Saves the file name, folder, and output format settings that are used during the export process.

Parent topic: EXPORTTOAUTOCAD

Related Concepts

• About Sharing Drawings

About the Project Manager

The starting point for managing projects is the Project Manager. All drawings are organized into
projects, and the project controls everything, including:

• the pipe specs available

• piping connections that cross drawings
• project-wide data viewing, exporting, and importing
• the annotation styles available
• the data fields for each component type
• isometric customization
• the organization of objects in the Data Manager, and so on
About New Projects

When you start the program for the first time, a default project is set as the current project. You can
either modify this project or create a new one, depending on your requirements.

Both the default project and any new projects that you create include standard settings for paths,
drawings, Data Manager configuration, and so on. These default settings are often appropriate for
most tasks throughout a project cycle. However, you can configure these settings to make them
specific to the needs of your organization or your client. You can configure your drawing
environment in the Project Setup dialog box.

A CAD manager typically sets up project templates. The templates are existing projects whose
configuration settings meet company standards. The CAD manager can designate another project
as the template and then set the name and location for the new project. The new project inherits the
 settings from the project used as a template, but these setting can be changed to satisfy the current
requirements.

Note:

It is strongly recommended that you avoid changing the project setup while others are using the
project. Any changes you make will be visible only after users close and open the project again.

Parent topic: Project Manager

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

• FAQ: Using a Server-Based Database

Related Tasks

• To create a new project

• To view the database setup

Related Reference

• Commands for Sharing Drawings

To Search in the Project Manager

1. Select your project in the Project Manager.

2. Type your search term in the search box directly above the list of files.

Note: The wildcard (*) character is supported.

If a drawing is found with the search, the tree expands to display it.

FAQ: Using a Server-Based Database

The default database is file-based (SQLite). You can, instead, choose to use a server-based
database for improved multi-user performance and reliability. If you choose this option during project
setup, keep in mind the following guidelines:

• Installing - Before setting up the project, you must install Microsoft SQL Server Express or Microsoft
SQL Server on the machine that will host the project database. To download and install SQL Server
Express, refer to the Microsoft web page here: http://www.microsoft.com/express/Database.
• Verifying - Make sure that the database is set up and running reliably. During project setup, you can
also test the connection.
• Configuring the server to allow remote connections - By default, SQL Server 2008 Express is
not setup to allow remote connections. To enable remote connections, use the SQL Server
Configuration Manager. You perform this procedure on the server machine only.
 Commands for Project Manager

Parent topic: Project Manager

Commands

• PROJECTMANAGER
• NEWPROJECT
• OPENPROJECT
• PLANTGETSTARTED

ROJECTMANAGER

Assembles and manages files belonging to a project.

Access Methods

Ribbon: Home tab Project panel Project Manager

Command entry: projectmanager

Summary
You can create a consistent working environment for all project team members. Assemble files by
linking or copying them to the project. You can also preview drawings, examine work history,
customize project settings, and perform other project-related tasks.

You can create or view orthographic output on the Orthographic DWG tab and isometric output on
the Isometric DWG tab.

List of Options
The Project Manager is displayed.
Topics in this section

• Project Manager
Assembles and manages drawings belonging to a project.
• Project Migration Wizard
Recognizes and migrates projects created in earlier versions of AutoCAD P&ID when you open
them in AutoCAD Plant 3D.
• Project Setup Wizard
Leads you through the project-creation process.
 • Project Maintenance Utility (SQL Server)
Converts, copies, or moves a project to SQL Server.
• PROJECTMANAGERCLOSE
Closes the Project Manager.
Parent topic: Project Commands

Related Concepts
NEWPROJECT

Creates a new project.

Access Methods

Ribbon: Home tab Project panel Project Manager New Project

Command entry: newproject

Summary
You can specify basic settings as you create a new project with the Project Setup wizard.

List of Options
The Project Setup wizard is displayed. Follow the onscreen instructions to create a new project.

Parent topic: N Commands

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

Related Tasks

• To create a new project

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Manager

OPENPROJECT

Opens a project file in the Project Manager.

 Access Methods

Ribbon: Home tab Project panel Project Manager Open Project

Command entry: openproject

Summary
The Open dialog box is displayed, where you can find and select the project.xml file you want to use.

Parent topic: O Commands

Related Tasks

• To open a project

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Manager

About Organizing Project Drawings - Folders and Paths

Grouping related drawings into folders within the Project Manager helps you catalog them for easier
reference. The folders you create in the Project Manager are virtual folders, defined for your project
in the <project name>.xml file.

How you set up the folder structure depends on how you plan to work. If you are in a multi-user
environment where everyone accesses the same network locations, you can set up absolute paths,
which define specific folder locations.

Note:

If you define a folder path on a virtual drive, make sure that all project members map the network
location to the same drive letter.

If you plan to transmit project files to someone without access to your network, set up a relative path.
A relative path retains the project folder hierarchy when it is copied to another system.

Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

• About Copying and Renaming Drawings
• About Referenced Drawings (Xrefs)
 Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

• To work with project folders

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Manager

About Drawing Work History Status

You can enter work history status and notes for any drawing in the Work History area of the project
manager.

You can also enter status and notes in the Work History dialog box, if your project administrator has
configured the dialog to display when you open or close a drawing. Note that this is not a
mechanism for storing, retrieving, or controlling versions of a drawing.
 Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

• To work with the Work History of a drawing

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Manager

About Inserting Title Blocks and Fields into Drawings

You can use fields to add and update project data within a drawing.

Each drawing in your project has properties that you can add to your drawing title block or other
areas of your drawing.

When a field or block containing a field is inserted into a drawing, the field automatically contains
data obtained from the properties stored with the drawing.
 Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About Drawing Work History Status

• About the Project Manager

Related Tasks

• To add a drawing status field into a drawing

• To use a title block containing field information
• To update fields stored in a title block
• To work with project drawings

About Copying and Renaming Drawings

As you assemble your project files, you can copy the files to their respective folders on the Source
Files tab of the Project Manager.

You can copy drawings to a project. You cannot add a drawing that has a read-only status. Before
you open the drawing, make sure no one else has opened it or turn off the Read-Only attribute in
Windows Explorer.

If you want to rename a project drawing, keep in mind the following:

• If the drawing has attached xrefs, you must reattach the references. If the drawing has related files,
these files are updated with the new filename when you next open them.
• If the drawing has associated ortho files, the ortho files are updated with the new file name.
• All off page connectors in the renamed drawing are updated.
• All properties of the renamed drawing, with the exception of the Title property, are maintained. Only
the Title property has to be updated manually.
• The user who renames the drawing sees the new name in the Project Manager right away. Other
users working on the same project must refresh the Project Manager to see the new name.
Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

• About Referenced Drawings (Xrefs)
• About Organizing Project Drawings - Folders and Paths
• About Blocks and Assemblies

Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

• To work with project folders
• To create and use assemblies

To view the database setup

You can find detailed information about converting existing projects to SQLExpress Server in a white
paper that describes how to use the database maintenance utility.

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Project panel Project Manager Project Setup.
2. In the Project Setup tree view, expand General Settings. Click Database Setup.
3. Click either SQLite Local Database or SQL Express Server Database to view the information
provided during project setup.

Related Concepts

• About New Projects

• About the Project Manager
• FAQ: Using a Server-Based Database

To backup your project

You can backup your entire project.

1. Select your project in the Project Manager.

2. Right-click and click Create Project Backup.
 A Plant Project Backup dialog box is displayed that shows what you need to back up the project;
exclusive project access, amount of disk space needed and approximately how long it will take.

3. Click Change to specify a location for your backup and click OK.
4. Click Backup Project Now.
All the files to be backed up must be closed before the backup starts. A dialog box prompting you to
close any open drawings is displayed if necessary.

About Organizing Project Drawings - Folders and Paths

Grouping related drawings into folders within the Project Manager helps you catalog them for easier
reference. The folders you create in the Project Manager are virtual folders, defined for your project
in the <project name>.xml file.

How you set up the folder structure depends on how you plan to work. If you are in a multi-user
environment where everyone accesses the same network locations, you can set up absolute paths,
which define specific folder locations.

Note:

If you define a folder path on a virtual drive, make sure that all project members map the network
location to the same drive letter.

If you plan to transmit project files to someone without access to your network, set up a relative path.
A relative path retains the project folder hierarchy when it is copied to another system.

Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

• About Copying and Renaming Drawings
• About Referenced Drawings (Xrefs)

Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

• To work with project folders

Related Reference

• Commands for Project Manager

About the Project Manager

The starting point for managing projects is the Project Manager. All drawings are organized into
projects, and the project controls everything, including:
• the pipe specs available
• piping connections that cross drawings
• project-wide data viewing, exporting, and importing
• the annotation styles available
• the data fields for each component type
• isometric customization
• the organization of objects in the Data Manager, and so on

Parent topic: Project Manager

Related Concepts

• About Copying and Renaming Drawings

• About Blocks and Assemblies
• About Referenced Drawings (Xrefs)

Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

 Related Reference

• Commands for Sharing Drawings

• Commands for Project Manager

About Copying and Renaming Drawings

As you assemble your project files, you can copy the files to their respective folders on the Source
Files tab of the Project Manager.

You can copy drawings to a project. You cannot add a drawing that has a read-only status. Before
you open the drawing, make sure no one else has opened it or turn off the Read-Only attribute in
Windows Explorer.

If you want to rename a project drawing, keep in mind the following:

• If the drawing has attached xrefs, you must reattach the references. If the drawing has related files,
these files are updated with the new filename when you next open them.
• If the drawing has associated ortho files, the ortho files are updated with the new file name.
• All off page connectors in the renamed drawing are updated.
• All properties of the renamed drawing, with the exception of the Title property, are maintained. Only
the Title property has to be updated manually.
• The user who renames the drawing sees the new name in the Project Manager right away. Other
users working on the same project must refresh the Project Manager to see the new name.
Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

• About Referenced Drawings (Xrefs)
• About Organizing Project Drawings - Folders and Paths
• About Blocks and Assemblies

Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

• To work with project folders
• To create and use assemblies

About Referenced Drawings (Xrefs)

You can attach a drawing to the current drawing as a referenced drawing, even if the referenced
drawing does not belong to the project. Attached xrefs are linked to a drawing rather than inserted
into it. For example, you can create a project drawing that contains little, if any, piping content but
 has references to many other piping drawings. This drawing is a “master” drawing that shows
several individual piping drawings in appropriate relationship to one another.

When you click the drawing to which a referenced drawing is associated, the xref appears as a child
node. (If the xref is a drawing that exists in the project, it does not appear as a child node.)

When you attach an xref, follow these guidelines:

• (Plant 3D) Attach all xrefs at a 0,0,0 origin for Plant 3D drawings. Do not use the AutoCAD
command refedit with Plant objects (pipes, fittings, and so on).
• Attaching a drawing as an xref does not create additional data cache rows. The xref is a reference
only.
• Use the AutoCAD command xref-bind to copy a referenced drawing into a drawing. When you bind
an xref, a block and a block reference is created in the drawing and the reference is discarded.
Exploding the block reference creates rows in the data cache.

Note: (Plant 3D) Only drawings that adhere to these guidelines can be opened or added to a Plant
3D project. The one exception is the guideline to attach all xrefs at a 0,0,0 origin, which is a best
practice and not mandatory.
Parent topic: Projects

Related Concepts

• About the Project Manager

• About Copying and Renaming Drawings
• About Organizing Project Drawings - Folders and Paths
• About Blocks and Assemblies

Related Tasks

• To work with project drawings

• To work with project folders
• To create and use assemblies

About Configuring Automated Layer and Color Assignments

Layers provide a convenient method for isolating line runs or services in a congested area. You can
turn layers on or off to view the specific objects that interest you.
 You can create layer and color assignment schemes based on any Plant 3D object property. Piping
and pipe supports follow the scheme that is currently in effect. End of line components, such as
pumps or tanks, do not follow the scheme.

Among the many automated layer and color schemes you can set up are the following:

• Layer by line number and color by pipe size

• Layer by line number and color by pipe spec
• Layer by pipe spec and color by pipe size
• Layer by service and color by pipe size
• Pipe support layer based on connected piping
• Pipe supports on a single layer
If you set up an automated scheme, piping and pipe supports that you place in a model follow that
scheme.

Remember the following guidelines when setting up an automated layer and color scheme:

• You can create automated schemes based on a list of pipe properties.

• You can add to the list of properties by which you can assign colors by creating a new selection list.
• You can change to a different scheme through the Project Setup dialog box after creating a project.
• If you change the automated scheme, the changes appear immediately in the open model. Other
project models update when you open them if synchstylesmode is set to update 3D model
drawings when opened.
• If you do not enable an automated scheme (if you clear the check box for Automate Layer And Color
Assignments When Creating Objects), the default AutoCAD layer and color settings are in effect.
Parent topic: 3D Model Configuration

Related Tasks

• To enable or disable automated layer and color assignments

• To create an automated layer and color assignment scheme
• To change to a different automated layer and color assignment scheme
• To add an option to the Assign Color By list

Related Reference

• Layer and Color Settings (Plant 3D DWG Settings Tree Node)

About Configuring Piping Connections

Connectors are the components and fasteners that you use to join pipe. You can set the conditions
that allow pipe to connect and identify the components and fasteners used to make a connection.

Joint types are either simple, or compound.

• A simple joint specifies fasteners (for example: welds or bolt sets) that are used to hold pipe
together. Default simple joint types, such as welded, flanged, and socketed joints, are provided for
connecting pipe with matching nominal diameter. Parts that support the connection (for example:
gaskets) are also specified in a simple joint.
• A compound joint specifies a connection component or adapter (for example: a weld-neck flange)
that allows pipe to connect. Default compound joint types include AutoFlange, which adds a flange
connection component when the diameter, pressure class, and facing of the pipe and fitting match.
For example, if you connect pipe with a plain end to a flanged valve there is no simple joint type that
can connect PL to FL end types. The AutoFlange compound joint type adds a Flange connection
component to the line, which is connected at each end by two simple joint types.

If you use both imperial and metric components in a project, you can specify whether to allow an
ANSI to DIN connection for each simple joint. During the modeling process, a message is displayed
when a designer makes an imperial/metric connection in a drawing,

Note:

You cannot customize the list of fasteners available in a simple joint. Also, you cannot add to the
Plant 3D class definitions.
 Parent topic: 3D Model Configuration

Related Tasks

• To modify a joint type

• To add a joint type
• To enable Imperial to Metric connections for simple joints

Related Reference

• Piping Connection Settings - Joint Setup (Plant 3D DWG Settings Tree Node)

About Configuring the P&ID Line List

You can customize the default mapping of P&ID to Plant 3D classes and properties. The P&ID line
list displays these mappings and enables designers to build 3D models with minimal data entry.

Note:

Some Plant 3D properties are spec-based and thus unavailable for mapping. On the P&ID Mapping
pane, under 3D Classes, Property Mapping, spec-based properties are marked with an asterisk (*).
They are available for validation only.

You can map a P&ID class to more than one Plant 3D class. For example, in the default mapping
scheme, the P&ID class Vessel is mapped both to the Plant 3D class Vessel and to Tank (Vessel).
About Pipe Supports

You can add pipe supports to the 3D model from the project pipe support spec, or you can create a
custom pipe support.

When you connect pipe supports to pipe, the support orientation and size is set from the pipe line. If
you connect a support to sloped piping, the support is oriented along the axis (not the pipe) to align
precisely with a structure or foundation.

After the pipe support is placed in the 3D model, you can use the rotate grip to change orientation.

For supports that have a point-of-support (for example: a hanger or stanchion), you can use the
Change Support Elevation grip. Lower the elevation (negative Z) to increase the height of floor
supports.

Pipe Support Dimensions

After adding a pipe support to the model, you can set pipe support dimensions in the properties
palette.
You can change the dimensions of a pipe support after it has been created, but you cannot change
the pipe support type.

If you copy a pipe support, it adjusts to match the size of the pipe it is copied to. If the pipe support is
copied into space, it is disconnected. If a pipe support is not attached to pipe, it displays a
disconnect glyph.

Note: Use grips to edit pipe and connected supports. If you use the AutoCAD move command, pipe
supports do not move unless pipe and supports are both selected.

About Pipe Supports and Sloped Piping

Pipe supports that attach to a foundation or structure align in a precise horizontal or vertical
orientation when attached to sloped pipe.

If you copy pipe supports to sloped piping and Lock Point of Support is enabled, the height of the
support is updated.

Pipe supports are place at either a horizontal or vertical orientation. When connecting pipe supports,
piping over 60 degrees is considered vertical (plantslopethresholdangle is not used).
 Pipe Support Tagging
You can assign both tags and line numbers to pipe supports.

You can set pipe supports to use Automated Layer assignment in project setup.

Dummy Legs (Stanchions)

When connecting a dummy leg to piping, the default size of the pipe support is one size smaller than
the piping. You can change the default size in the properties palette.

Parent topic: Pipe Supports

Related Reference

• Commands for Pipe Supports

About Custom Pipe Supports

You can customize supports by attaching AutoCAD objects to a support. You can also create a
custom support type by converting AutoCAD objects into a pipe support.

After a parametric pipe support is placed in the model, use the properties palette to set pipe support
dimensions. You can also use the Spec Editor to set default dimensions in pipesupportsspec.pspx.

You can customize pipe support shapes by combining one or more pipe supports into a single pipe
support.
 For example, you can combine a dummy leg and a stanchion together to create a single support.

Custom Pipe Supports using AutoCAD Objects

There are a number of ways that you can customize pipe supports using AutoCAD objects such as a
block or 3dsolid:

• You can select a block when you create a pipe support (plantpipesupportadd).
• In the 3D model, you can attach AutoCAD objects to an existing a pipe support
(plantpipesupportattach).
• You can convert one or more AutoCAD objects to create a pipe support
(plantpipesupportconvert).
• You can specify a block-based component that has one port (plantpartconvert).
A custom component that is used as a pipe support must have one port. Custom components can
be added to the pipe support catalog using the Spec Editor.

bout Equipment

In AutoCAD Plant 3D, you can create equipment from parametric patterns or user-fabricated models,
or add custom equipment to a drawing by converting a 3D DWG model from another program.

When you create an equipment model, you define its geometric information, location, orientation,
and non-geometric information (such as an equipment tag or description).

In AutoCAD Plant 3D, you can create and modify 3D models of plant equipment such as tanks,
pumps, boilers, and filters.

When modeling equipment, you define its physical dimensions, location, orientation, and other
details. You can also create templates from equipment and add nozzles to connect pipes to
equipment.

Using equipment patterns, you can create your own piece of equipment simply by changing the
dimensions, placement parameters, and placement location in the drawing area.

For example, you can create a centrifugal pump from an existing pattern with a modification to one
of the values. In the illustration on the left, the position for the nozzle discharge (PF1C) of the
centrifugal pump is offset to the right by 4 inches. The illustration on the right shows the nozzle
discharge set to 0", or centered on the pump.
You can also create a pattern by stacking individual shapes onto each other and changing the
default dimensions and placement parameters of each shape.

Nozzles
You can add and modify nozzles on equipment directly in the model.

After you have created or modified equipment, you can select the equipment in the model and use

the Add Nozzle grip to add a nozzle . You can also select an existing nozzle and use the Edit

Nozzle grip to modify it . Nozzles are subobjects that can be selected individually by holding
down CTRL.

On fabricated equipment as well as converted 3D solids, you can add nozzles and specify their
positions, directions, and dimensions.

Note: To remove the selected nozzle, press CTRL then DEL.

You can modify pump nozzles, but not add or remove them.

On parametric equipment, you can provide only dimension values for nozzles. The number and
position of nozzles are fixed.

Parent topic: Equipment

About Equipment Shapes

Custom Equipment
You can convert AutoCAD or Inventor models to an AutoCAD Plant 3D equipment model.

Attaching AutoCAD Objects

 You can add graphics to equipment, making them part of the equipment.

Attached graphics may include objects such as brackets, davits, clips, boots, domes, or integral
railings.

Once you add a graphic to an equipment model, it becomes part of the model, and is moved, copied,
or deleted along with it.

To edit an attached graphic, first detach it from the equipment. After editing, you can attach it again.

Equipment Modeling
You can now add equipment trim in the 3D model. New equipment trim includes:

• Stiffening Ring
• Skirt
• Platform
• Lug
• Body Flange
Common dimensions like vessel diameter use acquire mode that let you update a diameter once,
and have the rest of the vessel update accordingly.

If the diameter of the main cylinder is set, the vessel head and trim diameter are also updated.
For example, changing the Diameter of just one shape from 9' to 4' updates all connected shapes
and adjusts attached trim.

In addition to the new equipment trim features, semi ellipsoidal and flat head shapes have been
added for a vessel head. Thickness has been added to some head shapes. You may need to first
remove the existing head shape to set new parameters.

For more information see: About Equipment Shape Trim.

New Shapes
For less common pieces of equipment (such as turbine compressors), you can build your own
equipment by selecting and assembling shapes along a vertical or horizontal axis.

You define the stacking order of the shapes along the axis, and specify the dimensions and
placement parameters for the equipment. Depending on the shapes, you can also define the
number, location, and dimensions of nozzles.

Note:
The shapes for pumps and strainers are fixed. You cannot add, delete, or change the shape of these
equipment types. However, you can change their dimensions.
As the following illustration shows, you can create a vertical column by placing a large cylinder at the
bottom, a cone stacked above it, a narrow cylinder on top of the cone, and a dish head on the top.
You specify the height, dimensions, and other parameters as you add each shape.

For vertical equipment, shapes are stacked along a vertical axis, from top to bottom. For horizontal
equipment, shapes are stacked along a horizontal axis, from left to right.

The following table lists the shapes that are available for creating user-fabricated equipment.

Shape Preview Image Description Dimensions

2:1 A dished, spherical Diameter (D)

Torispherical head with a flange.
Head Straight Flange Height
(SF)
Thickness (T)
Shape Preview Image Description Dimensions

Semi A head that is in the Diameter (D)

Ellipsoidal shape of an ellipse, Straight Flange Height
Head such that the long axis (SF)
is twice the length of Thickness (T)
the short axis. The head
depth is one-quarter the
diameter. Does not
have a flange.

Flat Head Diameter (D)

Height (H)

2:1 A head that is in the Diameter (D)

Ellipsoidal shape of an ellipse, Straight Flange Height
Head such that the long axis (SF)
is twice the length of Thickness (T)
the short axis. The head
depth is one-quarter the
diameter. Has a flange.
Shape Preview Image Description Dimensions

Round-to- Orientation
Rectangle Depth (D1)
Width (W)
Height (H)
Diameter (D2)
Eccentricity (E)
Rotation (A)

Pyramid Orientation
Bottom Depth (D1)
Top Depth (D2)
Width (W)
Height (H)

Halfsphere A head that is one-half Diameter (D)

of a sphere. The depth
is equal to half the
diameter. Used for
high-pressure vessels
due to its inherent
strength. Expensive to
manufacture because of
the higher surface area,
so it is only used when
necessary.
 Shape Preview Image Description Dimensions

Cylinder Diameter (D)

Height (H)

Cone Orientation
Bottom Diameter (D1)
Top Diameter (D2)
Height (H)
Eccentricity (E)
Rotation (A)

Cube Depth (D)

Width (W)
Height (H)

About Equipment Trim

You can add trim to shapes when you create or modify equipment in the 3D model.
 Body Flange (Up-only).

The following equipment trim is available:

• Stiffening Ring
• Skirt
• Platform
• Lug
• Body Flange
• Leg
• Saddle
Trim availability depends on the shape and equipment type. For example, you can add a platform to
a vertical tank, but not a horizontal tank.
 Tank with a platform trim added to the cylinder
shape.

The platform trim can include railing and a ladder.

Shape Trim
The following table lists equipment trim. Some trim types provide options that significantly alter or
add to the geometry.
Trim Image Options Notes

Stiffening
Ring

Simple
Skirt With Base
Ring
With Gussets
With Top
Plates
With Top
Plate Ring

Platform Platform
shape can be
circular or
rectangular.
Railing and a
ladder can be
added.
Trim Image Options Notes

Leg Leg Type

(specify
structure)

Lug Simple
With Top
Plates
With Top
Plate Ring

Saddle Pair
Left
Right
 Trim Image Options Notes

Body Mating
Flange Up ( 1 face)
Down ( 1 f

Commands for Equipment

Commands
PLANTEQUIPMENTATTACH

PLANTEQUIPMENTCONVERT
PLANTINVENTOREQUIPMENTCONVERT
PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE
PLANTEQUIPMENTDETATCH
PLANTEQUIPMENTMODIFY
Add or Modify Nozzles Dialog Box

Videos

Create Equipment
Parent topic: Equipment

PLANTEQUIPMENTATTACH

Attaches an AutoCAD object to an equipment model.

Access Methods
 Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Attach Equipment

Command entry: plantequipmentattach

Summary
Attaches an AutoCAD object to a Plant 3D object, so that the objects move together.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select a single equipment item:

Click an equipment model.

Select objects to attach to the equipment:

Click an AutoCAD object to attach to the selected piece of equipment.

Parent topic: PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

PLANTEQUIPMENTCONVERT

Converts a 3D DWG model to an AutoCAD Plant 3D equipment model.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Convert Equipment

Command entry: plantequipmentconvert

Summary
You can create custom equipment types from AutoCAD objects. When you convert AutoCAD objects
to equipment, you can mark nozzles on it, tag it, and add it to your plant model.
 List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select AutoCAD objects to convert

Click the AutoCAD object you want to convert to an AutoCAD Plant 3D model.

The Convert to Equipment Dialog Box is displayed.

Topics in this section

• Convert to Equipment Dialog Box

Converts 3D models to AutoCAD Plant 3D equipment.

Convert to Equipment Dialog Box

Converts 3D models to AutoCAD Plant 3D equipment.

 Select Equipment Type
Displays a list of equipment types. Click the equipment type you want to convert the
AutoCAD object to.

Parent topic: PLANTEQUIPMENTCONVERT

•
Parent topic: PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

Related Concepts

• Equipment

Related Reference

• Commands for Equipment

PLANTINVENTOREQUIPMENTCONVERT

Imports an Inventor AEC export file (*.adsk) as an AutoCAD Plant 3D equipment model.
Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Convert Inventor Equipment

Command entry: plantinventorequipmentconvert

Summary
You can import an Inventor ADSK package into AutoCAD Plant 3D. Select the type of equipment in
the Convert to Equipment Dialog Box. Once the equipment is in the model, you can route pipe from
nozzles or add new nozzles. For more information about creating an ADSK package from Inventor,
see the Inventor Help topic on AEC Exchange.

PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

Creates a new equipment model.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Create Equipment

Command entry: plantequipmentcreate

Summary
The Create Equipment Dialog Box is displayed.

Videos

Create Equipment

PLANTEQUIPMENTDETACH

Detaches all previously attached objects from an equipment model.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Detach Equipment

Command entry: plantequipmentdetach

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.
 Select a single equipment item:
Click an equipment item you want to detach.

Detach all attached objects? [Yes/No]:

Click Yes to detach the previously attached items.

Parent topic: PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

Related Concepts

• Equipment

Related Reference

• Commands for Equipment

PLANTEQUIPMENTMODIFY

Modifies an existing equipment model.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Modify Equipment
Command entry: plantequipmentmodify

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select Equipment to modify:

Click the equipment model you want to modify.

The Modify Equipment Dialog Box is displayed.

Topics in this section

• Modify Equipment Dialog Box

Modifies settings for parametric, fabricated, or custom equipment models.
Parent topic: PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

Add or Modify Nozzles dialog boxAdd or Modify Nozzles Dialog

Box

Adds or modifies nozzles on Plant 3D equipment or converted 3D solids.

Topics in this section

• Add or Modify Nozzles (Change Type)
Sets nozzle tag and specifies the nozzle type you want to add or to which you want to change.
• Add or Modify Nozzles (Change Location)
Sets location properties for the new or modified nozzle.
Parent topic: PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

Related Concepts

• Equipment

Related Reference
Add or Modify Nozzles (Change Type)

Sets nozzle tag and specifies the nozzle type you want to add or to which you want to change.

Nozzle
 Displays the current nozzle. When editing, you can click the drop-down list to select another
nozzle to edit.

Tag icon
Displays the current tag. Clicking expands the dialog (as shown) so that you can edit the
type and number segments of the tag.

Equipment Tag
Displays the tag (read-only) for the piece of equipment on which you are adding or editing
nozzles.

Change Type
Click this button to filter nozzle types and select from a list of appropriate nozzles.

Change Location
Click this button to set nozzle location parameters.

Straight Nozzle, Bent Nozzle, Vent Nozzle, Manway buttons

Filters the nozzle list under Select Nozzle to simplify your selection.

Size
Filters the nozzle list by size (for example: 6”).

End Type

Filters the nozzle list by end type (for example: FL).

Unit
Filters the nozzle list by unit (for example: in).

Pressure Class
Filters the nozzle list by pressure class (for example: 300).

Select Nozzle
Lists the nozzles available, depending on your filters. Select the one you want to change to
or add.

Parent topic: Add or Modify Nozzles Dialog Box

Add or Modify Nozzles (Change Location)

Sets location properties for the new or modified nozzle.

Nozzle
Displays the current nozzle. When editing, you can click the drop-down list to select another
nozzle to edit.

Tag icon
Displays the current tag. Clicking expands the dialog (as shown) so that you can edit the
type and number segments of the tag.

Equipment Tag
Displays the tag (read-only) for the piece of equipment on which you are adding or editing
nozzles.

Change Type
Click this button to filter nozzle types and select from a list of appropriate nozzles.

Change Location
Click this button to set nozzle location parameters.
 Nozzle Location
Sets the nozzle location to top, bottom, radial, or line.

R
Sets the nozzle radius.

Sets the nozzle angle.

L
Sets the nozzle length.

P
Sets the nozzle perpendicular to the equipment.

Sets the nozzle inclination.

N
Sets the nozzle rotation.

T
Sets the nozzle twist.

Parent topic: Add or Modify Nozzles Dialog Box

PLANTEQUIPMENTCREATE

Creates a new equipment model.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Create Equipment

Command entry: plantequipmentcreate

Summary
The Create Equipment Dialog Box is displayed.

Videos

Create Equipment
 Topics in this section

• PLANTEQUIPMENTATTACH
Attaches an AutoCAD object to an equipment model.
• PLANTEQUIPMENTCONVERT
Converts a 3D DWG model to an AutoCAD Plant 3D equipment model.
• PLANTEQUIPMENTDETACH
Detaches all previously attached objects from an equipment model.
• PLANTEQUIPMENTMODIFY
Modifies an existing equipment model.
• Add or Modify Nozzles Dialog Box
Adds or modifies nozzles on Plant 3D equipment or converted 3D solids.
• Create Equipment Dialog Box
Creates an equipment model.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• Equipment

Related Reference

• Commands for Equipment

PLANTEQUIPMENTATTACH

Attaches an AutoCAD object to an equipment model.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Equipment panel Attach Equipment

Command entry: plantequipmentattach

About Structure

You can create a structural model in your AutoCAD Plant 3D drawing.

 Create a Structural Member
A structural member is a 3D structural object, such as a beam or column.

You can create a structural member by specifying its start point and end point, or by aligning the
member with a line that you select in your drawing.

Edit a Structural Member

You can edit an individual structural member to change its settings.

When you edit a structural member, you can change the same settings that you specify in member
settings. If you want to change settings for all new structural members, use member settings instead.

You can also edit a member by matching its properties to those of another member in the current
drawing.

Cut a Structural Member

You can cut a structural member with respect to the boundaries of another structural member.

You can cut a structural member in one of two ways:

• Cut the member to the boundary of another member.

• Cut two members to the boundaries of each other.
After you cut one or more members, you can specify the gap between the cut member and the
member boundary.

Cut the Edge of a Structural Member

An edge cut trims multiple structural members according to the edge of another member.
 You can specify a gap value between the cut member and boundary. The edge cut operation trims
the member at both ends.

Export Structural Objects to an Advance Steel XML (SMLX) File

You can select structural objects in a drawing and export them to a Steel Detailing Neutral Format
(SMLX) file.

Structural objects you can export to this format are:

• Structural members
• Railings
• Ladders
• Stairs
• Plates
When you export railings, ladders, and stairs to SMLX, they are exploded into individual members.
Ladder cages are not included in an export.

After the drawing has been detailed in Advance Steel, you can replace the objects in the 3D model
with an external reference (XREF) to the Advance Steel model with the support of Advance Steel
object enablers.

You can use Advance Steel to create SDNF 2.0, 3.0, and later files.

Parent topic: Structure

Related Tasks

• To work with structural members

• To specify member settings
• To cut a structural member to the boundary of another member
• To miter two structural members together

About Structural Display

You can set the structural model representation of structural objects.

Structural member settings focus mainly on shape, size, and orientation. When you create a new
structural member, it derives its properties from the current member settings. For example, if
member settings are currently set to ANSI standards, Pipe - Shapes ASTM shape type, and 2”
shape size, then all new structural members you create have these settings by default.

Member settings are default values for new structural members. You can change these settings as
needed.

You can edit individual structural members. Suppose you need several structural members with
most of the same properties, but at slightly different sizes. You can specify the member settings,
create the structural members, and edit individual members to change the size as needed.

The selected structural model representation applies to all structural objects in a drawing. You can
change the way structural objects display to make it easier to select insertion points, measure
distances, and so on.

The following list shows how a structural member is displayed in the drawing area when the different
model types are set. The models in the list are shown in increasing level of complexity and detail.

Model Name Display Description

Line Model This model is best for tasks that do

not require extensive detail, such as
creating a member. In line model,
objects are represented as lines, and
you can easily select insertion points
for new objects.
Model Name Display Description

Symbol Model This model is best for quickly making

small changes or additions to a large
project.

Outline Model This model is best for output files

and measuring distances. Insertion
points are not easy to see in this
model, so it is not the
recommended representation for
creating objects.
 Model Name Display Description

Shape Model This model displays objects at their

original dimensions.

About footings and plates

Footings
When you create a structural footing in your model, you can specify its length, width, and depth.

You can specify footing settings to determine the values for all new footings. Then you can
customize the settings by editing individual footings as needed.

Plates
You can add a plate or grate to a structural model.

When you create a plate, you specify its type, materials, placement, shape, and other information.

About structural grids

Before placing structural objects, you can create a structural grid.

Grids are optional, but make it easier to create a structural model in 3D space.
When you create a grid, you set values and labels for each coordinate axis. You can use the grid to
snap to when adding structural components.

Commands for Structure

Commands
ADVANCESTEELEXPORT
PLANTSTEELCUT

PLANTSTEELEDIT
PLANTSTEELEDGECUT
PLANTSTEELEXPLODE
PLANTSTEELEXTEND

PLANTSTEELFOOTING
PLANTSTEELGRID
PLANTSTEELLADDER
PLANTSTEELLENGTHEN

PLANTSTEELMEMBER
PLANTSTEELMITER
PLANTSTEELPLATE
PLANTSTEELRAILING

PLANTSTEELRESTORE
PLANTSTEELSETREP
PLANTSTEELSTAIR
PLANTSTEELTRIM
 Create Grid Dialog Box
Edit Grid Dialog Box
Member Settings Dialog Box

ADVANCESTEELEXPORT

Exports structural objects to Steel Detailing Neutral Format.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Export panel Advance Steel Export

Command entry: advancesteelexport

Summary
The Advance Steel Export dialog box is displayed.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select structural objects for Advance Steel output

Click one or more structural objects.

PLANTSTEELCUT

Cuts structural members with respect to member boundaries.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Cut Back Member

Command entry: plantsteelcut

Summary
The Cut One option cuts a member to the boundary of another shape. The Cut Both option cuts two
members to the boundaries of each other.
List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select limiting member or [cut Both/Gap]:

Click the limiting member you want to cut.

Cut Both
Specifies that both members are cut to the boundaries of each other.

Gap
Specifies a distance or positive value for the cut-back gap.

PLANTSTEELEDIT

Edits structural object properties.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Modify panel Structure Edit

Command entry: plantsteeledit

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select structural member to edit:

Click a structural member to edit.

PLANTSTEELEDGECUT
Cuts multiple structural members with respect to other member edges.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Cut Member Edges

Command entry: plantsteeledgecut

Summary
When a member endpoint lies on the body of another member, this command cuts the member
endpoint back to the edge of the other member.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify cut-back gap:

Enter a positive value to indicate the gap between the member you intend to cut and the
boundary.

Select structural members to cut:

Click structural members to cut.

PLANTSTEELEXPLODE

Explodes complex structural objects into individual elements.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Modify panel Structural Explode

Command entry: plantsteelexplode

Summary
You can explode a structural trim object into individual members so you can edit the parts of the
object.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select structural objects to explode:

Select one or more objects to explode.
PLANTSTEELEXPLODE

Explodes complex structural objects into individual elements.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Modify panel Structural Explode

Command entry: plantsteelexplode

Summary
You can explode a structural trim object into individual members so you can edit the parts of the
object.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select structural objects to explode:

Select one or more objects to explode.

PLANTSTEELEXTEND

Lengthens or shortens structural members to meet a plane.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Modify panel Extend Member

Command entry: plantsteelextend

List of Options
The following option is displayed.

The Extend to Plane dialog box is displayed.

List of Prompts
The following option is displayed.

Select structural member to extend or shift-select to trim or [Undo]:

Click the structural member to extend. Shift-select trims the selected objects rather than
extending them.
 Note: To switch to plantsteeltrim, hold down SHIFT and click the member you want to trim.

PLANTSTEELFOOTING

Creates a footing.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Footing

Command entry: plantsteelfooting

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify insertion point of footings or [Settings]:

Click in the drawing area to specify an insertion point for the footing.

Settings
The Footing Settings dialog box is displayed.

Topics in this section

• Edit Footing Dialog Box

Edits a structural footing.
• Footing Settings Dialog Box
Specifies default settings for creating structural footings.

Edit Footing Dialog Box

Edits a structural footing.

Geometry
Edits the geometry settings for the selected footing. Numerical values indicated in parentheses
correspond to the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Length (1)
Sets the length of the footing.

Width (2)
Sets the width of the footing.

Depth (3)
Sets the depth of the footing.

Material
Edits options for material standard and material code.

Standard

Specifies the material standard for the footing.

Code
Specifies the material code for the footing.

Footing Settings Dialog Box

Specifies default settings for creating structural footings.

Geometry
Sets the default geometry settings for footings. Numerical values indicated in parentheses
correspond to the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Length (1)
Sets the footing length.

Width (2)
Sets the footing width.

Depth (3)
Sets the footing depth.

Material
Specifies default material standard and material code for footings.

Standard

Specifies the material standard for the footing.

Code
Specifies the material code for the footing.

PLANTSTEELGRID

Creates a structural grid.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Grid

Command entry: plantsteelgrid

List of Options
The following option is displayed.

The Create Grid Dialog Box is displayed.

Create Grid Dialog Box

Creates a structural grid.

Grid Name
Specifies the name for the grid. This name is a property of the grid object, but does not
display as text. Optional.

Axis Value
Specifies the axis value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Axis Name (Local X)

Specifies the axis name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Row Value
Specifies the row value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.
 Row Name (Local Y)
Specifies the row name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Platform Value
Specifies the platform value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use
an @ sign to specify a relative value.

Platform Name (Local Z)

Specifies the platform name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Font Size
Specifies the font size for the grid name.

Note:

To specify feet or inches, add the required notation to the value (10’, 12”).

Edit Grid Dialog Box

Edits a structural grid.

Grid Name
Specifies the name for the grid. This name is a property of the grid object, but does not
display as text. Optional.

Axis Value
Specifies the axis value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Axis Name (Local X)

 Specifies the axis name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Row Value
Specifies the row value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Row Name (Local Y)

Specifies the row name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Platform Value
Specifies the platform value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use
an @ sign to specify a relative value.

Platform Name (Local Z)

Specifies the platform name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Font Size

Specifies the font size for the grid name.

Note:

To specify feet or inches, add the required notation to the value (10’, 12”).

LANTSTEELLADDER

Creates a ladder.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Ladder

Command entry: plantsteelladder

Summary
Adds a ladder to a model. The start point and end point form a vertical axis, and the directional
distance point specifies the rotation around and the distance to this axis.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify start point of ladder or [Settings]:

Click in the drawing area to define the bottom point of the ladder.

Specify end point of ladder or [Settings]:

 Click in the drawing area to define the top point of the ladder.

Specify directional distance point or [Settings]:

Click in the drawing area to define the directional distance.

Settings
The Ladder Settings dialog box is displayed.

Topics in this section

• Edit Ladder Dialog Box

Edits a structural ladder.
• Ladder Settings Dialog Box
Creates a structural ladder.

Edit Ladder Dialog Box

Edits a structural ladder.

Ladder Tab (Edit Ladder Dialog Box)

Edits ladder settings for a structural ladder.

General
Edits the type and description for the selected ladder.

Type
Edits the ladder type.

Description
Edits the ladder description.

Shape
Edits the ladder shape settings.

Ladder shape
 Edits the ladder shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Ladder Shape dialog box.

Rung shape
Edits the rung shape option such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Rung Shape dialog box.

Geometry
Edits the geometry settings for the selected ladder. Numerical values indicated in parentheses
correspond to the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Width (1)
Edits the width of the ladder.

Exit Width (2)

Edits the exit width of the ladder.

Projection (3)

Edits the projection of the ladder.

Rung Distance (4)

Edits the distance between rungs.

Ladder Settings Dialog Box

Creates a structural ladder.

 Topics in this section

• Ladder Tab (Ladder Settings Dialog Box)

Specifies default settings for creating ladders.
• Cage Tab (Ladder Settings Dialog Box)
Specifies default cage settings for creating ladders.

Ladder Tab (Ladder Settings Dialog Box)

Specifies default settings for creating ladders.

General
Sets the type and description for ladders.

Type
Specifies the ladder type.

Description
Specifies the ladder description.

Shape
Sets the ladder shape.

Ladder shape
 Specifies the ladder shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in
the Select Ladder Shape dialog box.

Rung shape
Specifies the shape option such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the Select
Rung Shape dialog box.

Geometry
Sets the geometry settings for ladders. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond
to the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Width (1)
Specifies the width of the ladder.

Exit Width (2)

Specifies the exit width of the ladder.

Projection (3)

Specifies the projection of the ladder.

Rung Distance (4)

Specifies the distance between rungs.

Cage Tab (Ladder Settings Dialog Box)

Specifies default cage settings for creating ladders.

General
Sets the cage drawing and description.

Draw Cage
Specifies whether to draw the cage.

Description
Specifies the cage description.

Geometry
Sets the geometry settings for case. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond to the
labeled geometry in the preview image.
 Start Height (1)
Specifies the start height of the cage.

Maximum Distance (2)

Specifies the maximum distance between cage sections.

From Top (3)

Specifies the distance between top of ladder to cage section.

Radius (4)
Specifies the cage radius.

Angle 1 (5)
Specifies the cage 1 angle value.

Angle 2 (6)

Specifies the cage 2 angle value.

Height (7)
Specifies the height of individual cage members.

Width (8)
Specifies the width of individual cage members.

Ladder Tab (Ladder Settings Dialog Box)

Specifies default settings for creating ladders.

General
Sets the type and description for ladders.

Type
Specifies the ladder type.

Description
Specifies the ladder description.

Shape
Sets the ladder shape.

Ladder shape
 Specifies the ladder shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in
the Select Ladder Shape dialog box.

Rung shape
Specifies the shape option such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the Select
Rung Shape dialog box.

Geometry
Sets the geometry settings for ladders. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond
to the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Width (1)
Specifies the width of the ladder.

Exit Width (2)

Specifies the exit width of the ladder.

Projection (3)

Specifies the projection of the ladder.

Rung Distance (4)

Specifies the distance between rungs.

PLANTSTEELLENGTHEN

Changes the length of structural members.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Lengthen Member

Command entry: plantsteellengthen

List of Prompts
The following prompt is displayed.

Select a structural member or [Delta/Total]:

Click an object or enter an option.

Select a structural member to change or [Undo]:

Click the next object to change.
 Delta
Changes the length of a structural member by a specified increment, measured from the end
point that is closest to the selection point. A positive value extends the shape, a negative value
trims it.

Total
Sets the length of a select member by specifying the total absolute length from the endpoint that
is closest to the selection point.

Topics in this section

• Ladder Tab (Edit Ladder Dialog Box)

Edits ladder settings for a structural ladder.
• Cage Tab (Edit Ladder Dialog Box)
Edits cage settings for a structural ladder.

Extend to Plane Dialog Box

Lengthens a structural member to meet a plane.

Intersection Plane
Specifies the boundary plane used for extending the member.

XY WCS
Specifies that the XY plane of the world coordinate system is used as the cutting plane.

XY UCS
Specifies that the XY plane of the user coordinate system is used as the cutting plane.

Named UCS
Specifies that the XY plane of the named user coordinate system defined and saved in
AutoCAD is used as the cutting plane.

3 Points
Specifies that the XY plane of the new coordinate system is used as the cutting plane.

2 Points
Specifies that the line and vector are used as the cutting plane.
 Named UCS
Displays the defined user coordinate system.

Parent topic: PLANTSTEELLENGTHEN

PLANTSTEELMEMBER

Creates a structural member.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Structural Member

Command entry: plantsteelmember

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify start point of structural member or [Line/Settings]:

Click in the drawing area to specify a start point.

Line
Click a line to align the structural member with it.

Settings
The Member Settings dialog box is displayed.

Videos

Structural

Topics in this section

• Edit Member Dialog Box

Edits a structural member.
• Member Settings Dialog Box
Specifies default settings for creating structural members.
• Select Shape Dialog Box
Selects the profile for structural objects.
• PLANTSTEELCUT
Cuts structural members with respect to member boundaries.
• PLANTSTEELEDGECUT
Cuts multiple structural members with respect to other member edges.
• PLANTSTEELEDIT
Edits structural object properties.
• PLANTSTEELEXPLODE
Explodes complex structural objects into individual elements.
• PLANTSTEELEXTEND
Lengthens or shortens structural members to meet a plane.
• PLANTSTEELFOOTING
Creates a footing.
• PLANTSTEELGRID
Creates a structural grid.
• PLANTSTEELLADDER
Creates a ladder.
• PLANTSTEELLENGTHEN
Changes the length of structural members.
• PLANTSTEELMITER
Fits two structural members together in a miter joint.
• PLANTSTEELPLATE
Creates a plate or grating.
• PLANTSTEELRAILING
Creates a railing.
• PLANTSTEELRESTORE
Resets structural members to the original states.
• PLANTSTEELSETREP
Changes the model representation of structural objects.
• PLANTSTEELSTAIR
Creates a stair.
• PLANTSTEELTRIM
Shortens or lengthens structural members to meet a plane.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• Structure

vvPLANTSTEELMEMBER
Creates a structural member.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Structural Member
 Command entry: plantsteelmember

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify start point of structural member or [Line/Settings]:

Click in the drawing area to specify a start point.

Line
Click a line to align the structural member with it.

Settings
The Member Settings dialog box is displayed.

Videos

Structural

Topics in this section

• Edit Member Dialog Box

Edits a structural member.
• Member Settings Dialog Box
Specifies default settings for creating structural members.
• Select Shape Dialog Box
Selects the profile for structural objects.
• PLANTSTEELCUT
Cuts structural members with respect to member boundaries.
• PLANTSTEELEDGECUT
Cuts multiple structural members with respect to other member edges.
• PLANTSTEELEDIT
Edits structural object properties.
• PLANTSTEELEXPLODE
Explodes complex structural objects into individual elements.
• PLANTSTEELEXTEND
Lengthens or shortens structural members to meet a plane.
• PLANTSTEELFOOTING
Creates a footing.
• PLANTSTEELGRID
Creates a structural grid.
• PLANTSTEELLADDER
Creates a ladder.
• PLANTSTEELLENGTHEN
Changes the length of structural members.
• PLANTSTEELMITER
Fits two structural members together in a miter joint.
• PLANTSTEELPLATE
Creates a plate or grating.
• PLANTSTEELRAILING
Creates a railing.
• PLANTSTEELRESTORE
Resets structural members to the original states.
• PLANTSTEELSETREP
Changes the model representation of structural objects.
• PLANTSTEELSTAIR
Creates a stair.
• PLANTSTEELTRIM
Shortens or lengthens structural members to meet a plane.
Parent topic: P Commands

Related Concepts

• Structure

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Cut Back Member

Command entry: plantsteelcut

Summary
The Cut One option cuts a member to the boundary of another shape. The Cut Both option cuts two
members to the boundaries of each other.
List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select limiting member or [cut Both/Gap]:

Click the limiting member you want to cut.

Cut Both
Specifies that both members are cut to the boundaries of each other.

Gap
Specifies a distance or positive value for the cut-back gap.

PLANTSTEELMITER

Fits two structural members together in a miter joint.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Miter Cut Member

Command entry: plantsteelmiter

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select first structural member for bisector cut or [Align Edges/Gap]:

Click a structural member or enter an option.

Align Edges
Select a first and second structural member to align cut edges. Repeats so you can cut multiple
objects.

Gap
PLANTSTEELPLATE

Creates a plate or grating.

Access Methods
 Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Plate

Command entry: plantsteelplate

List of Options
The following option is displayed.

The Create Plate/Grate dialog box is displayed.

List of Prompts
The following prompt is displayed.

Specify first corner point of the plate:

Click in the drawing area to specify a corner point.

Specify other corner point of the plate:

Click in the drawing area to specify a second corner point.

PLANTSTEELRAILING

Creates a railing.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Railing

Command entry: plantsteelrailing

List of Prompts
The following prompt is displayed.

Specify start point of railing or [Object/Settings]:

Click in the drawing area or click an object to align the railing with.

Object
Specifies an object to align the railing with.

Settings
The Railing Settings dialog box is displayed.
Edit Railing Dialog Box

Edits a structural railing.

Geometry
Edits the geometry settings for the selected railing. Numerical values indicated in parentheses
correspond to the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Handrail Height (1)

 Edits the height of the handrail.

1st Mid Rail Height (2)

Edits the height of the first mid rail.

2nd Mid Rail Height (3)

Edits the height of the second mid rail.

Kick Plate Height (4)

Edits the height of the kick plate.

First Post (5)

Edits the distance of the first post and last posts from the railing endpoints.

Second Post (6)

Edits the maximum distance between posts for the railing. If you lengthen the railing,
distances between posts increase until they become larger than this value. When this
occurs, another post is added and all posts are repositioned to be equidistant.

Shape
Edits the shape settings for handrails, kick plates, and posts.

Handrail
Edits handrail shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Handrail Shape dialog box.

1st Mid Rail

Edits kneerail shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Kneerail Shape dialog box.

Kick Plate
Edits kick plate shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Kick Plate Shape dialog box.

Post
Edits the post shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Post Shape dialog box.

Railing Settings Dialog Box

Specifies default settings for creating railings.

Geometry
Sets the geometry settings for railings. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond to the
labeled geometry in the preview image.

Handrail Height (1)

Specifies the height of handrails.

1st Mid Rail Height (2)

Specifies the height of the first mid rail.
 2nd Mid Rail Height (3)
Specifies the height of the second mid rail.

Kick Plate Height (4)

Specifies the height of the kick plate.

First Post (5)

Specifies the distance of the first post and last posts from the railing endpoints.

Second Post (6)

Specifies the maximum distance between posts for the railing. If you lengthen the railing,
distances between posts increase until they become larger than this value. When this
occurs, another post is added and all posts are repositioned to be equidistant.

Shape
Sets the shape settings for handrails, kick plates, and posts.

Handrail
Specifies handrail shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Handrail Shape dialog box.

1st Mid Rail

Specifies kneerail shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Kneerail Shape dialog box.

Kick Plate
Specifies kick plate shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Kick Plate Shape dialog box.

Post
Specifies the post shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Post Shape dialog box.

PLANT STEEL RESTORE

Resets structural members to the original states.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Restore Member

Command entry: plantsteelrestore

PLANTSTEELSETREP
Changes the model representation of structural objects.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Line Model

Command entry: plantsteelsetrep

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify model representation for structural objects [Line/Symbol/Outline/Shape]<L>:

Changes the model representation for structural objects. Structural objects are rendered
using the specified model representation.

Line
Changes model representation to Line Model.

Symbol
Changes model representation to Symbol Model.

Outline
Changes model representation to Outline Model.

Shape
Changes model representation to Shape Model.

PLANTSTEELSETREP

Changes the model representation of structural objects.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Line Model

Command entry: plantsteelsetrep

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.
Specify model representation for structural objects [Line/Symbol/Outline/Shape]<L>:
Changes the model representation for structural objects. Structural objects are rendered
using the specified model representation.

Line
Changes model representation to Line Model.

Symbol
Changes model representation to Symbol Model.

Outline
Changes model representation to Outline Model.

Shape
Changes model representation to Shape Model.

PLANTSTEELSETREP

Changes the model representation of structural objects.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Line Model

Command entry: plantsteelsetrep

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify model representation for structural objects [Line/Symbol/Outline/Shape]<L>:

Changes the model representation for structural objects. Structural objects are rendered
using the specified model representation.

Line
Changes model representation to Line Model.

Symbol
Changes model representation to Symbol Model.
 PLANTSTEELSTAIR

Creates a stair.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Parts panel Stairs

Command entry: plantsteelstair

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify first point of stair or [Settings]:

Click in the drawing area to specify first point of stair.

Settings
The Stair Settings dialog box is displayed.

Topics in this section

• Edit Stair Dialog Box

Edits a stair.
• Select Step Dialog Box
Specifies the tread standard, tread shape, and dimensions for stairs.
• Stair Settings Dialog Box
Creates a stair.

Edit Stair Dialog Box

Edits a stair.
Geometry
Edits the geometry settings for the stair. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond to
the labeled geometry in the preview image.

Stair Width (1)

Edits the width of the stair.

Maximum Tread Distance (2)

Edits the maximum distance between treads.

Shape
Edits the settings for steps and stair shape.

Step Data
Edits step data such as tread standard, tread shape, and dimensions, as defined in the
Select Step dialog box.

Stair Shape
 Edits the stair shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Stair Shape dialog box.

Outline
Changes model representation to Outline Model.

Shape
Changes model representation to Shape Model.

Select Step Dialog Box

Specifies the tread standard, tread shape, and dimensions for stairs.
Tread Standard
Sets the tread standard used for steps.

Tread Shape
Sets the tread shape for steps.

Add
Creates a new tread shape item and adds it to the list.

Remove
Deletes a tread shape item from the list.
Dimensions
Sets the geometry settings for steps. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond to the
labeled geometry in the preview image.

Size
Specifies the overall size of a step.

Height (1)
Specifies the tread height.

Width (2)
Specifies the tread width.

Chamfer (3)
Specifies the chamfer size.

Stair Settings Dialog Box

Creates a stair.
Geometry
Sets the geometry settings for stairs. Numerical values indicated in parentheses correspond to the
labeled geometry in the preview image.

Stair Width (1)

Specifies the width of stairs.

Maximum Tread Distance (2)

Specifies the maximum distance between treads.

Shape
Sets step and stair shape.

Step Data
Specifies step data such as tread standard, tread shape, and dimensions, as defined in the
Select Step dialog box.

Stair Shape
Specifies the stair shape options such as material standard, type, and size as defined in the
Select Stair Shape dialog box.

PLANTSTEELTRIM

Shortens or lengthens structural members to meet a plane.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Structure tab Cutting panel Trim Member

Command entry: plantsteeltrim

List of Options
The following option is displayed.

The Trim to Plane Dialog Box is displayed.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select structural member to trim or shift-select to extend or [Undo]:

Click the structural member to trim. Shift-select extends the selected objects rather than
trimming them.
 Note: To switch to plantsteelextend, hold down SHIFT and click the member you want to
extend.

Create Grid Dialog Box

Creates a structural grid.

Grid Name
Specifies the name for the grid. This name is a property of the grid object, but does not
display as text. Optional.

Axis Value
Specifies the axis value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Axis Name (Local X)

Specifies the axis name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Row Value
Specifies the row value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Row Name (Local Y)

Specifies the row name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Platform Value
Specifies the platform value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use
an @ sign to specify a relative value.

Platform Name (Local Z)

 Specifies the platform name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Font Size
Specifies the font size for the grid name.

Note:

To specify feet or inches, add the required notation to the value (10’, 12”).

Edit Grid Dialog Box

Edits a structural grid.

Grid Name
Specifies the name for the grid. This name is a property of the grid object, but does not
display as text. Optional.

Axis Value
Specifies the axis value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Axis Name (Local X)

Specifies the axis name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Row Value
Specifies the row value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use an
@ sign to specify a relative value.

Row Name (Local Y)

Specifies the row name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.
 Platform Value
Specifies the platform value as entered or defined by the Pick Point button or user entry. Use
an @ sign to specify a relative value.

Platform Name (Local Z)

Specifies the platform name as entered or defined by the Pick Point button.

Font Size
Specifies the font size for the grid name.

Note:

To specify feet or inches, add the required notation to the value (10’, 12”).

Member Settings Dialog Box

Specifies default settings for creating structural members.

Shape Standard
Sets the default standard for members.

Shape Type
Sets the shape type.

Shape Size

Sets the shape size.

Material Standard
Sets the default materials standard for members.
 Material Code
Sets the default material code for members.

Note: You can use standards sites to search for material code descriptions. For
example, http://www.astm.org/Standard/index.shtml and enter A558 in the search box.

Angle

Sets angle value. Click to increase current value by 90 degrees.

Flip About Y Axis

Flips member orientation.

Align Y With Z UCS

Aligns Y axis with Z UCS to set member orientation.

Horizontal
Sets horizontal placement of origin to value entered.

Vertical
Sets vertical placement of origin to value entered.

Match Properties
Prompts you to click a member in the drawing area and populates fields with values identical
to the selected member.

Orientation

Displays preview of selected options applied to structural object.

Set Visibility of Plant 3D Objects

You can set the visibility of all Plant 3D objects, including pipe, equipment, and structure.

When you want to work without visual interference from other objects in large drawings, you can
hide Plant 3D objects.

Note:

Plant 3D visibility control is separate from AutoCAD layer visibility.

To work with Plant object visibility

To hide Plant 3D objects

1. In the drawing, select the Plant 3D objects you want to hide.
2. On the ribbon, click Home tab Visibility panel Hide.

To display only selected Plant 3D objects

1. In the drawing, select the Plant 3D objects you want to display.
2. On the ribbon, click Home tab Visibility panel Hide Others.

To turn silhouettes for wireframe display on or off

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab View panel Visual Styles drop-down list Visual Styles
Manager.

2. In the Visual Styles Manager palette, click Available Visual Styles in Drawing 2D Wireframe.
3. In the Contour Lines box, enter 0 (zero) or 4 (for silhouettes on or off).
4. In the 2D Wireframe Options Draw True Silhouettes list, click Yes or No.
5. At the Command prompt, enter regen.

Note:
The 2D wireframe silhouette and isoline display settings also affect the 3D wireframe settings.

Commands for Visibility of Plant 3D Objects

Commands
PLANTHIDE
PLANTISOLATE
 PLANTSHOWALL

System Variables
PLANTCONNECTIONMARKER
PLANTDYNAMICTOOLPALETTE
PLANTINSULATIONDISPLAY

PLANTINSULATIONMODE
PLANTLOCKFADECTL
PLANTPIPESILHDISPLAY
PLANTPROPMISMATCHDISPLAY

PLANTPLACEHOLDERDISPLAY
PLANTSAVEDETAIL
PLANTWELDDISPLAY
SYNCSTYLESMODE

PLANTISOLATE

Hides everything except the selected Plant 3D objects.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Visibility panel Hide Others

Command entry: plantisolate

Summary
You can hide all Plant 3D objects except those objects that are selected.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select objects
Selects the Plant 3D objects you want to show while all other objects are hidden.

PLANTHIDE
Hides the selected objects.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Visibility panel Hide

Command entry: planthide

Summary
You can hide Plant 3D objects.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select objects
Selects the Plant 3D objects you want to hide.

PLANTSHOWALL

Displays all Plant 3D objects in a drawing.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Home tab Visibility panel Show All

Command entry: plantshowall

Summary
You can display all Plant 3D objects that were hidden using PLANTHIDE and PLANTISOLATE.

PLANTCONNECTIONMARKER

Toggles the display of the disconnect marker.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 1
 0 Hides disconnect markers

1 Displays disconnect markers

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

PLANTDYNAMICTOOLPALETTE

Loads the dynamic pipe spec tool palette from the current spec.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantdynamictoolpalette

Summary
You can enable or disable the dynamic pipe spec tool palette.

List of Prompts
The Dynamic Pipe Spec Tool Palette is currently <enabled>.

PlantDynamicToolPalette [Enable/Disable]:

Enable
 Displays the current spec in the tool palette.

Disable
Do not use the dynamic tool palette. You can create and customize a static piping
component tool palette using the spec viewer. This behavior is compatible with AutoCAD
Plant 3D 2011.

PLANTINSULATIONDISPLAY

Controls whether insulation is displayed on AutoCAD Plant 3D piping objects.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 1

0 Do not display insulation on piping

1 Display the insulation on piping

PLANTINSULATIONMODE

Controls whether insulation is displayed on AutoCAD Plant 3D piping objects.

Type: String

Saved in: Registry

Initial
simplifiedPartial
value:

simplifiedFull All components display insulation.

simplifiedPartial Display tubing and fittings with insulation. Valves and flanges do not display insulation.
Recommend setting when creating orthographic drawin

PLANTLOCKFADECTL

Fades locked piping in the 3D model.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0

0 Do not fades locked piping

1 Fades locked piping slightly

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

Parent topic: P System Variables

Related Reference
PLANTPIPESILHDISPLAY

Sets the display of the pipe silhouettes.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0

0 Hides pipe silhouettes. If dispsilh is on, plantpipesilhdisplay is ignored and pipe

silhouettes display.

1 Displays pipe silhouettes

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

PLANTPROPMISMATCHDISPLAY

Toggles the display of the property mismatch markers.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0
 0 Hides property mismatch markers

1 Displays property mismatch markers

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

PLANTPLACEHOLDERDISPLAY

Toggles the display of the Placeholder Part glyph.

Type: Integer

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0

0 On

1 Off

PLANTSAVEDETAIL

Sets the detail of the proxy graphics when Plant 3D objects are viewed in AutoCAD or Navisworks
without object enablers.

Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0

0 Low detail. Sets proxy graphic detail to use lines. This setting reduces the size of the DWG
file when saved.

1 High detail. Sets proxy graphic details to use surfaces. Recommended setting when the
drawing is used in Navisworks.

PLANTWELDDISPLAY

Toggles the display of connection markers.

 Type: Switch

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 0

0 Hides connection markers such as weld and glue markers

1 Displays connection markers

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance.

P System Variables

Topics in this section

• PIDPAINTERMODE
Displays P&ID drawings in a color that matches a property (painter).
• PLANTCONNECTIONMARKER
Toggles the display of the disconnect marker.
• PLANTCONTENTFOLDER
Displays the shared content catalog folder.
• PLANTDEFAULTLAYER
Sets the piping layer to use when using automated layer assignments and the layer cannot be
determined.
• PLANTDWGCHECKERAUTOCHECK
Specifies whether to run the Drawing Checker automatically when a P&ID is opened.
• PLANTERRORLEVEL
Controls the display of confirmation, warning, and error dialog boxes.
• PLANTLOCKFADECTL
Fades locked piping in the 3D model.
• PLANTGRIPEDITMODE
Controls whether inline fittings are constrained to move within the current pipe segment or if they
move to other connected pipe segments in the network.
• PLANTINSULATIONDISPLAY
Controls whether insulation is displayed on AutoCAD Plant 3D piping objects.
• PLANTINSULATIONMODE
Controls whether insulation is displayed on AutoCAD Plant 3D piping objects.
• PLANTLOCKPOINTOFSUPPORT
Locks the point-of-support on pipe supports.
• PLANTMAXBENDANGLE
Specifies whether pipe bends can be used up to 90 or 180 degrees.
• PLANTOFFSETCONNECT
Controls whether AutoCAD Plant 3D attempts to connect piping when snapping to a pipe connection
and using pipe offset while routing.
• PLANTORTHOHIDDENLINEMODE
Specifies whether hidden lines are shown and whether they are shown for piping only or for all plant
objects.
• PLANTORTHOMATCHLINEMODE
Specifies whether matchlines are generated on plan view orthos.
• PLANTPCFUNICODE
Creates Unicode PCF files.
• PLANTPIPESILHDISPLAY
Sets the display of the pipe silhouettes.
• PLANTPROPMISMATCHDISPLAY
Toggles the display of the property mismatch markers.
• PLANTPLACEHOLDERDISPLAY
Toggles the display of the Placeholder Part glyph.
• PLANTROUTEBEND
Creates pipe bends while routing pipe.
• PLANTSAVEDETAIL
Sets the detail of the proxy graphics when Plant 3D objects are viewed in AutoCAD or Navisworks
without object enablers.
• PLANTSLOPETHRESHOLDANGLE
Specifies the angle below which piping is treated as sloped.
• PLANTSPECNOTIFY
Checks for spec file updates when the drawing loads, and on a time interval.
• PLANTSPECNOTIFYTIME
Sets the time interval that spec files are checked for updates.
• PLANTWELDDISPLAY
Toggles the display of connection markers.

SYNCSTYLESMODE

Sets how project drawings synchronize with the project database.

Type: Bitcode

Saved in: Registry

Initial value: 42

The setting is stored as a bitcode using the sum of the following values:

1 Synchronize P&ID drawings when they are opened.

 2 Synchronize open P&ID drawings when the project is modified.

4 Synchronize 3D Model drawings when they are opened.

8 Synchronize open 3D Model drawings when the project is modified.

16 Synchronize Ortho drawings when they are opened.

32 Synchronize open Ortho drawings when the project is modified.

Turn this variable off (0) to improve performance. Set all bits (63) to update P&ID, 3D Model, and
Ortho drawings when they are opened, and if the project is modified in Project Setup. The default
(42) synchronizes open P&ID, open 3D Model, and Ortho drawings if the project is modified in
project setup.

About Display Performance

The following Plant 3D variable settings provide the best performance.

Tip: You can easily hide or show disconnect markers by clicking the icon in the ribbon.

You can change the display style to show your model more or less realistically, depending on your
performance requirements. You can also show or hide individual Plant 3D objects.

The Visibility panel and expanded View panel on the Home tab give you control over the appearance
of your model and the speed with which you can browse through it.
You can improve performance by turning on disconnect markers only when you need them, by
operating most often in 2D wireframe mode, and by breaking up large drawings and using external
references.

Select an Optimal Visual Style

By reducing 3D display detail, you can improve performance. You can experiment with various visual
settings to find the balance between realistic appearance and performance that works best for you.

If you decide on a wireframe style, you can select either 2D or 3D, with the former providing greater
performance benefits, especially for large models. Objects in 2D wireframe look similar to those in
3D wireframe.

When you use a wireframe visual style, you configure display settings specific to that style and
different from those set for a realistic visual style.

You can configure the wireframe visual style to display true silhouettes, for example. If you change
back to a realistic visual style, you can turn off silhouettes to improve display performance.
Maximize Plant 3D Performance

System Variable Setting for best performance Description

plantconnectionmarker Off Hides disconnect markers

plantdynamictoolpalette Off Disables the dynamic pipe sp

plantinsulationdisplay Off Hides insulation on piping

plantinsulationmode Partial Hides insulation on valves an

plantlockfadectl Off Disables faded appearance of

components
 System Variable Setting for best performance Description

plantpipesilhdisplay Off Turns off pipe silhouettes

plantplaceholderdisplay Off Turns off markers (yellow !) f

parts

plantpropmismatchdisplay Off Hides property mismatch ma

plantsavedetail Off Reduces drawing file size

plantwelddisplay Off Hides connection markers

plantsteelsetrep Line Displays structure using a line

You can also adjust the following AutoCAD variables:

System Variable Setting for best performance Description

dispsilh Off Hides silhouette edges

isolines 4 Displays this number of conto

surface on objects
 System Variable Setting for best performance Description

pickfirst Off Selects objects after the com

before the command

viewres 1 Sets the smoothness of curve

2D view

vscurrent 2Dwireframe Sets the fastest display mode

vtenable 0 Turns off smooth view transit

About Isometric Drawings

You can create annotated and dimensioned isometric drawings based on your 3D models on your
local network or from the cloud.
You can generate a quick or a production isomentric drawing.

Local vs. Cloud

The process for creating isometric drawings is similar whether they are being created on a local
drawing or one in the cloud from BIM 360 Team.

Quick Isometric Drawing

You can check all or a few of the lines, either by selecting them from a list or by selecting them in the
drawing area. Because quick isometrics are not kept as drawings of record, they do not become
project documents accessible in the project manager. You can use Windows explorer to manage
drawings created in the QuickIsos folder.

A designer often generates a quick isometric drawing to check piping work before creating an
issuable production isometric drawing, which is added to the project.

Production Isometric Drawing

You can create any of the included (check, stress, and final) or customized isometric drawing types
as production isometrics. You have the options of overwriting previously generated isometric files
and creating a DWF file from all isometrics created in the process.

Reports are added to Isometric drawing using tables.

Isometric drawings usually contain reports including the Bill of Materials. You can configure isometric
tables in the title block.

Parent topic: Isometric Drawings (Isos)

 Related Concepts

• About Configuring Settings for Isometric Drawings

• Workflow: Create Isometric Drawings

About Iso Styles and Themes

Isometric Styles
By default, you have four isometric styles, check, stress, final, and spool, from which you can create
isometric drawings. You can add additional Styles. A style controls the appearance of the geometry
and annotation, defines where the iso drawings are created, provides the templates used, and
controls how piping is split into sheets.

These styles differ from each other in the amount of detail included and in the format in which the
information is presented. You can also customize the three isometric drawing styles included with
the product to create other isometric styles.

Check Isometrics
You create check isometric drawings to make sure that all necessary components are represented in
the model. A check isometric also confirms that the model can create an Isometric drawing without
errors when it is time to produce the final deliverable. The details in check isometric drawings
facilitate comparison with AutoCAD P&ID.

Stress Isometrics
Stress isometrics are drawings that convey geometric data pertinent to stress checking. Typically,
you create these isometrics only for pipelines requiring stress analysis, such as high temperature
lines, lines with large pipe sizes, critical service lines, and in some cases, high pressure lines.

You can also create a piping component file (PCF) to run through a stress analysis application or to
create a loose drawing. The stress engineer uses this drawing to analyze the stresses and loading
on the pipeline.

Final Isometrics
Final isometrics are the key deliverable documents that you create from 3D piping models. You
typically produce final isometrics during the last stages of a project. These drawings include a bill of
materials (BOM) and become the issued documents of record that are used for fabrication and
construction.

Spool Drawings
Spool drawings typically use the properties of Final Isometrics, but are split into separate drawings
for shop fabrication.
Iso Themes
An Iso Theme can be used to modify (override) the appearance of certain types of components
within a style. For example, small bore piping can have a different dimension type, or be placed on a
different layer. The settings for themes are unique within each Iso style.

About Isometric Reference Dimensions

Isometric reference dimensions allow you to document objects in the 3D model that are not part of
the pipe line in Iso drawings.

A primary purpose of a reference dimension is to locate piping in the isometric drawing relative to a
foundational element at the site. For example, the center of equipment such as a vertical tower.

A most common reference is a steel column or grid line.

For example, you can reference a structure such as a beam. An Iso reference dimension is placed in
the 3D model and displays a preview of the reference dimension that will be added to the Iso
drawing. Select or highlight the Iso reference dimension to display the preview.
In the isometric drawing, dimensions to the referenced object are created. You can also specify the
reference linetype and accompanying text.

When not selected or highlighted the Iso reference dimension is hidden inside piping. It is similar to
an Iso Message, but Iso reference dimensions have coordinate lines that extend a small amount
outside piping.

Wireframe view.

The lines allow you to select the Iso reference dimension in non-wireframe views.

Visible in transparent piping.

Both Iso messages and Iso reference dimensions are created on the Iso Information layer.

Referenced Objects
Iso reference dimensions can reference plant objects, non-plant objects (AutoCAD line), or even no
object (a location in space).

If a plant object is referenced, the initial settings of the Iso reference dimension are set intelligently.
Plant objects in an xref are referenced intelligently.
Reference to structure in an xref.

Iso reference dimensions are not associative. Regardless of initial settings, Iso reference dimensions
are not linked to the referenced object. Once created, you can change Iso dimension reference type
and values in the properties palette.

Isometric Reference Dimensions

Reference to beam centerline.

 Reference to floor elevation.

Isometric reference dimensions allow you to document objects in the 3D model that are not part of
the pipe line in Iso drawings.

An Iso reference dimension is placed in the 3D model and displays a preview of the reference
dimension that will be added to the Iso drawing. Select or highlight the Iso reference dimension to
display the preview.

For more information see: About Isometric Reference Dimensions and Iso Symbols and Reference
Setup.

Iso Reference Dimensions (X Y Z)

You can set any combination of X Y and Z dimensions in the Iso drawing.
 Show X dimension only.

Show X Y and Z dimensions.

You can specify a skew dimension type that creates one dimension for the total distance.

Skew dimension.

You can also create a locating dimension along piping to the Iso reference dimension location.
 Locating dimension.

About Iso Information Items

You can create iso information items (markers) such as floor symbols, flow arrows, break points, and
then place them on your 3D model. The information item is displayed on the generated isometric
drawing.

Markers placed in the model display as spheres inside piping.

Information items can add symbols and annotations to the Iso drawing. Information items can also
change how the Iso is generated.
 You can specify Iso splits by adding a Break Point marker to the model. You can also add a field
weld in the model to specify an Iso split location.

About Iso Messages

You can create an Iso message in the 3D model. You can preview the message before placing it on
the piping model. The message is displayed in the generated isometric drawing.

You can place an Iso message in the model that displays as a sphere in piping.

In the Iso, message text displays in the specified enclosure (for example: oval).

You have the option of placing messages in the drawing without enclosures or with the following
enclosure options:

• Round ended box

• Rectangular box
• Circular enclosure
• Triangular enclosure (2 character)
• Diamond shaped enclosure (3 character)
• Diamond ended box
• Double circle
• Ellipse
• B.I.P. identifier

PCF to Pipe

PCF to Pipe

PCF to Pipe is available in the Ribbon.

You can import PCF files created in AutoCAD Plant 3D or by other programs.
 SampleIsoPreview.pcf imported into the 3D model.

For more information see: About importing PCF files into the 3D model.

Commands for Isometrics

Parent topic: Isometric Drawings (Isos)

Commands

• PLANTISOADDINFO
• PLANTISOADDMSG
• PLANTISOSPLITPOINTS
• PLANTISOTBATTRIBUTESETUP
• PLANTISOTBCLOSE
• PLANTISOTBDRAWAREA
• PLANTISOTBNORTHARROW
• PLANTISOTBPLACETABLE
• PLANTISOTBTABLESETUP
• PLANTISOTHEMESETUP
• PLANTPCFEXPORT
• PLANTPCFTOISO
• PLANTPRODUCTIONISO
• PLANTQUICKISO
• PLANTWELDADD
• Isometric Configuration
• Isometric Configuration (Isos)
 System Variables

• ISOAREAVISIBILITY
• PLANTPCFUNICODE

Tasks (Isos)

Topics in this section

• To Generate a Quick Isometric Drawing

• To Generate a Production Isometric Drawing
• To View Isometric Creation Details
• To Create an Iso Message
• To Create an Information Item
• To Work with PCF Files
• To Lock a Line and Mark Isometric DWGs as Issued
• To Save Iso Split Points in the 3D Model
• To Specify an Isometric Start Point in the 3D Model

PLANTISOADDINFO

Creates an Iso information item.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantisoaddinfo

Summary
Places a marker in the 3D model to provide information for the Isometric drawing.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select Isometric information to add [Break point/Floor symbol/flow Arrow/Insulation/Location point]:

Please pick the insertion point on a pipe or fitting: Specify point on a pipe or a fitting

Information
Floor Symbol

Places a marker in the 3D model to indicate where a floor symbol should be placed on the
Iso.
 Flow Arrow

Places a marker in the 3D model to indicate where a flow arrow symbol should be placed
on the Iso.

Insulation

Places a marker in the 3D model to indicate where an insulation symbol should be placed
on the Iso.

Location Point

Places a marker in the 3D model to indicate where a location point symbol should be
placed on the Iso.

Start Point

Places a marker in the 3D model to indicate where the iso line begins on sheet one.

Break Point

Places a marker in the 3D model to indicate where an isometric break point should occur.

PLANTISOADDMSG

Creates a message on the drawing. Sets the message text, enclosure, and dimensioning.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantisoaddmsg

Summary
Displays the Create Iso Message dialog box.

Topics in this section

• Create Iso Message Dialog Box

Creates a message on the drawing. Sets the message text, enclosure, and dimensioning.

PLANTISOSPLITPOINTS

Adds isometric split points (break points) to the 3D model.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantisosplitpoints
Summary
The isometric start point and split points can be explicitly placed into the 3D model. The next time an
isometric drawings are created the same split points are used.

You can also use the Convert Split Points dialog box to save split points and start points. This
command provides additional options.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select isometric style to use or [?] <current iso style>:

Specify line numbers to add iso split points or [?] <*>: ?

Split points are available for lines: 101, 102, 3301.

Specify line numbers to add iso split points or [?] <*>: *

Replace break points? [Yes/No] <Yes>:

Add start points? [Yes/No] <Yes>:

Iso Style
Specifies the Iso Style to import from.

Note: The style name is not saved into the 3D Model. Once saved in the 3D model, split
points and the start point apply to all isometric drawings created, regardless of the Iso Style
used.

Line Number
Specifies the line numbers. You can use wildcards. An asterisk (*) specifies all lines.

Note: Only line numbers that are in the current drawing can be saved to the 3D model.
However, all drawings that contain the line number are modified. Additional drawings that
contain the line number are opened in the drawing editor.
Replace Break Points
If yes, existing split points are removed from the 3D model. If you Ignore Break Points when
creating isometric drawings and specify to Replace Break Points on the command line, old
break points are both ignored and removed.

Add Start Points

Adds the start point to the 3D model.

PLANTISOTBATTRIBUTESETUP

Setup title block attributes.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Project Setup Isometric DWG Settings Title Block Setup Title Block Attributes

Command entry: plantisotbattributesetup

Summary
Displays the Insert Title Block Attributes dialog box.

Select block or [Insert default title block]

Selects a title block in the drawing, or i to insert the default Title Block. You can erase the
default title block to display this option.

Topics in this section

• Map Title Block Attributes Dialog Box

Maps title block attributes to Plant 3D properties.
Parent topic: PLANTISOTBTABLESETUP

Related Concepts

• Isometric Drawings (Isos)

• About Configuring Settings for Isometric Drawings

Related Reference

• Commands for Isometrics

Insert Title Block Attributes Dialog Box

Inserts data from formatted project fields into the title block of an isometric drawing.
 Topics in this section

• Add Attributes Tab (Insert Title Block Attributes Dialog Box)

Adds attributes to title block.
• LDT Setup Tab (Insert Title Block Attributes Dialog Box)
Edits attributes in title block.

Map Title Block Attributes Dialog Box

Maps title block attributes to Plant 3D properties.

Block Attributes
Displays the Title Block attribute tag.

Plant 3D Attributes
Specifies a property for the project or line. If set to Not Mapped, no Plant 3D property value
is assigned. Setting Not Mapped allows you to assign custom values which will not be
overwritten.

PLANTISOTBCLOSE

Closes the Iso Table Editor.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantisotbclose
Summary
Closes title block Drawing, and returns to the Iso Setup in Project Setup.

PLANTISOTBDRAWAREA

Designates draw and no-draw areas in an Iso drawing.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Project Setup Isometric DWG Settings Title Block Setup Isometric Drawing
Area

Command entry: plantisotbdrawarea

Summary

In Title Block Setup you can create and modify areas for Iso drawings. A draw area specifies the
limit area that Iso objects are created in. No-draw areas can be placed within the draw area to
specify that Iso objects should not be created within the no-draw area.

A table area is created automatically when you create your first table. You can stretch the draw area.

You can create one draw area. You can create one or more no-draw areas.

List of Prompts
If a draw area does not exist in the table editor, you are prompted to create one.

Specify first corner point: Specify the first corner of a draw area.
 Specify other corner point: Specify the second corner of a draw area.

Replace draw area or [Replace draw area/add No-draw area/toggle Visibility]:

Area
Replace Draw Area

Specifies the area to create objects in the isometric drawing.

Add No-draw Area

Specifies areas to exclude objects from in the isometric drawing.

Toggle Visibility
Displays draw-area as a perimeter instead of draw and no-draw rectangles. Draw areas can
be selected only when rectangles are displayed.

Visibility
Toggle Visibility

Draw area visibility on.

Draw area visibility off.

Displays draw-area as a perimeter instead of draw and no-draw rectangles. Draw areas can
be selected only when rectangles are displayed.
 Videos

Isos

PLANTISOTBNORTHARROW

Adds a North arrow to an Iso title block.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Project Setup Isometric DWG Settings Title Block Setup North Arrow

Command entry: plantisotbnortharrow

Summary
Sets the North Arrow direction and places a North arrow symbol in the title block.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify default north arrow direction [upper Left, upper Right, lower leFt, lower righT]: <upper Left>

Specify insertion point or [Basepoint/Scale/X/Y/Z/Rotate]: <Insertion Point>

Direction
Upper Left

Set North arrow to point up and left.

Upper Right

Set North arrow to point up and right.

Lower Left

Set North arrow to point down and left.

Lower Right

Set North arrow to point down and right.

PLANTISOTBPLACETABLE

Places one or more tables in an Iso drawing template.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Project Setup Isometric DWG Settings Title Block Setup Table Placement &
Setup

Command entry: plantisotbplacetable

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Specify table to place [Bill of material/Cut piece/Weld/Spool ] <Bill of materials>:

Specify first corner point or [Add to existing area/Undo/eXit] <Add to existing area>:

Specify other corner point [Undo/eXit]:

Select existing table area or [Undo/eXit]: Select a draw area

Table
Bill of Material

Places a bill of material table in the title block.

Cut Piece List

Places a cut piece list in the title block.

Weld List

Places a weld list table in the title block.

Spool List

Places a spool list in the title block.

Edit
Add

Adds a table to an existing draw area.

LANTISOTBTABLESETUP

Configures tables (BOM, Cut piece list, weld list, spool list) that display on an isometric drawing title
block.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantisotbtablesetup
 Summary
This command is available from the Title Block and Display.

Displays the Table Setup Dialog Box.

Topics in this section

• PLANTISOTBATTRIBUTESETUP
Setup title block attributes.
• PLANTISOTBCLOSE
Closes the Iso Table Editor.
• PLANTISOTBDRAWAREA
Designates draw and no-draw areas in an Iso drawing.
• PLANTISOTBNORTHARROW
Adds a North arrow to an Iso title block.
• PLANTISOTBPLACETABLE
Places one or more tables in an Iso drawing template.
• PLANTISOTHEMESSETUP
Sets Isometric themes.

PLANTISOTBATTRIBUTESETUP

Setup title block attributes.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Project Setup Isometric DWG Settings Title Block Setup Title Block Attributes

Command entry: plantisotbattributesetup

Summary
Displays the Insert Title Block Attributes dialog box.

Select block or [Insert default title block]

Selects a title block in the drawing, or i to insert the default Title Block. You can erase the
default title block to display this option.

About Configuring Settings for Isometric Drawings

The Iso settings available for configuration include styles, dimensions, sloped lines, labels, and the
title block.
Iso Styles encompass all settings and files that control an isometric drawing. Styles determine the
iso type (iso or spool drawing), file-naming convention, overflow table behavior, spool size, and file
locations.

Iso Themes control the appearance and behavior of piping elements within the iso (and iso style).
The default theme, for example, sets up layering of not only piping and components, but also tables,
default styles for dimensions, text and so on.

Override Themes, in conjunction with the default theme, control the appearance and behavior of a
subset of piping that meets set criteria. For example, the Small Bore Piping theme applies to piping
that is less than and including 2 inches Nominal Diameter (50mm for metric). This override theme
specifies different layering, dimensioning and annotation behavior for small bore piping. Also,
the Existing Piping override theme specifies that piping identified as Existing is to be drawn
differently (typically as dashed line with all of the components on a single layer), and not reported in
the BOM, not dimensioned, and not annotated.

LANTPCFEXPORT

Exports a piping component file.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Isos Export panel PCF Export

Command entry: plantpcfexport

PLANTPCFTOISO

Creates an Iso from a PCF file.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantpcftoiso

PLANTQUICKISO

Creates a quick iso.

Access Methods
Ribbon: Iso tab Isos panel Quick Iso

Command entry: plantquickiso

Summary
You use quick isometric drawings to check your work. They are not retained as project documents.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select components to iso or select by [Line number]

Specify components or lines to include in the isometric drawing.

The Create Quick Iso dialog box is displayed.

Line Number
Specify line numbers in the dialog box (no drawing selection).

Videos

Isos

PLANTWELDADD

Adds a weld to pipe.

Access Methods
Command entry: plantweldadd

Summary
Adds a weld to a specified location on pipe. You can also automatically add welds after setting a
maximum pipe segment length.

Buttweld and Fusion Weld fastener types are supported by default. You cannot place welds onto
fixed-length piping, or piping that has male and female end types (for example: Mechanical joints,
Bell and Spigot).

Dynamic tracking is supported. This allows you to place the weld a precise distance from a fitting
similar to plantfittingmove.

List of Prompts
The following prompts are displayed.

Select pipe segment to add weld to or [Type, autoplacement Distance]: Select pipe that has a BV,
PL, or PPL end type.

Specify point location or [Base component, Autoplacement, Undo, eXit]: Specify weld location on
pipe.

Specify weld type [Shop, Field, field fiT]: Specify the weld type.

Select pipe endpoint to start from or [Autoplacement, Undo, eXit]: Specify end of pipe.

Set Auto placement distance for autoplacement <20'>:

Autoplacement
Adds one or more welds at a fixed pipe segment length.

Autoplacement Distance

Sets the maximum pipe segment distance between welds.

Base Component
Specify a different location to track from if dynamic input is enabled.

Type
Sets the Shop/Field property for new welds.

Isometric Configuration (Advanced)

 Configure Isometric settings (Advanced).

Important: This section is for advanced users and administrators.

In most situations you configure settings in:

• Project Setup - Isometric Configuration (Isos)

• Dialogs that appear when creating isometric drawings - Create Production Iso
• Template drawings such as the title block - Configure Isometric Title Block

Isometric Style Files

You can share your Iso settings by copying the IsoConfig.xml, iso.dwt, and ATR file to another Iso
style folder that has matching project units and Iso style name. For example, you can copy the
Check style from one metric project to the Check folder in another metric project.

Isometric Style Files

• IsoConfig.xml contains the configuration settings.

• iso.dwt is the title block template.
• ClientConfig.isf contains miscellaneous settings that are not saved in IsoConfig.xml.
• The ATR file maps properties to title block attributes.
The following files are shared by all styles in the project:

Isometric Project Files

• IsoSkeyAcadBlockMap.xml maps SKEY to block name.

• IsoSymbolStyles.dwg contains Iso symbol block definitions.
• Plant3dIsoSymbols.dwg contains Iso messages and break point markers. Used by both the 3D
model and Iso drawing.
• PropertyTranslationMapping.xml maps property values to display values. For example, Weldolet can
be replaced by WOL.
• BoltSizeMappings.xml maps imperial to metric bolt sizes.
The program folder contains the default configuration file that is used when the project is created.

Configuration: De-mystifying AutoCAD Plant 3D Isometrics.pdf (pdf).

Topics in this section

• Iso Config XML

Configuration settings for Iso Config XML files.
• FAQ: How do I assign an SKEY to an Iso symbol?
• FAQ: How do I create a custom Iso symbol?
 Iso Config XML

Configuration settings for Iso Config XML files.

You can modify IsoConfig.xml in the project isometric folder for an Iso style (for
example: Isometric\Check\IsoConfig.xml).

To edit the config file directly you use your own XML file editor (for example: Notepad or Visual
Studio) to modify the configuration file.

IsoConfigDefinition
The root element in the XML file is IsoConfigDefinition. The attributes and elements at the root level
are fixed and should not be changed. You can modify the child attribute values and elements listed
under Topics in this section.

Topics in this section

• Output
Output drawing configuration.
• Files
Support and log file name configuration.
• FileNameFormat
File name format.
• DrawingNameFormat
Output drawing file name format.
• View
The isometric view scheme.
• Geometry
Geometry configuration.
• Units
Units format configuration.
• Skew
Skew configuration.
• Split
Split configuration.
• Data
Data (solver) configuration.
• Table
Table configuration.
• Logging
Log message layout pattern configuration.
• TitleBlock
Title block configuration.
• Themes
Theme list.
• Filters
Named filters used to identify components, exclusions, and splits.

FAQ: How do I assign an SKEY to an Iso symbol?

The Iso symbol block library IsoSymbolStyles.dwg is in the Isometric project folder. All Iso styles in a
project use the same block library.

You can open IsoSymbolStyles.dwg and use bedit to view symbols.

The Isometric project folder also contains IsoSkeyAcadBlockMap.xml which maps an SKEY to a
symbol.

The SKEY attribute support wildcards when matching names in the symbol map. For example, both
ELSW and ELBW match EL?? which maps to the Iso symbol block name Elbow. Wildcards ? and *
are supported.
 If an existing symbol is suitable for an unsupported SKEY value, you can simply copy the SkeyMap
element to a new line and change the SKEY attribute to match the value. You do not need to modify
the Iso block library.

You can modify the graphics of an existing symbol using the AutoCAD Block Editor. Save Block As
allows you to create a new AcadBlock.

To create a list of SKEYs, you can use Data manager or the Spec Editor to export Project or Catalog
data to Excel. In Excel, unprotect the sheet and select the Content Iso Symbol Definition column with
the Remove Duplicates feature.

FAQ: How do I create a custom Iso symbol?

If you cannot identify an existing symbol inIsoSymbolStyles.dwg to use, you can create a new
symbol.

To create a new Iso symbol first open IsoSymbolStyles.dwg and enter bedit at the command prompt
to open the Block Editor.

Consider the following suggestions and guidelines when creating your block:

• Open a Valve block to identify the scale to used for your new Iso Symbol. All blocks are scaled
uniformly during Iso creation (you can set the scale in project setup).
• The block must be drawn such that its center point is at the origin (0,0). To decide what orientation to
draw it in, consider how it will connect to piping (red dashed line in image below) flowing from left to
right.

For example, a CAP is orientated with its flat side on the left.
 An OLET is orientated such that Port1 and the center point are at the origin. Note that Port2 is above
Port1, not to the right of it.

• Add point parameters starting with Port1, Port2, Port3, and so on for all connection points. For
example, a valve will have 2 ports, a cross will have 4 ports, and a tee will have 3 ports. It is
important to use exactly the namePort and to include the entire sequence (do not use another term
or language for Port).
• If your block supports tapped connections, you can add point parameters with a
sequence TapPoint1, TapPoint2, and so on. You can add any number of tap points. Tap points are
chosen by location, not sequence. For example, if the block has 3 TapPoints defined but only one
tap is needed during Iso creation, the closest TapPoint is chosen.
 The Flange block is used by blind flanges and has six TapPoints.
TapPoints are not required. If no TapPoints are defined in the block but a tap is needed, a tap point
is automatically created.
• Wipeouts can be added to blocks created for annotations (for example: a diamond enclosure
annotation block). This is done because annotations can end up on top of skew hatches in the
output iso. The wipeouts make the text in the annotation readable by hiding whatever is underneath
it.
• Flow dependent blocks like check valves and flow arrows can have a flip parameter (parameter +
action) in a dynamic block. This provides a flip grip in the Iso drawing. Flip parameters
named FlipX and FlipY are used. A flow-arrow or check-valves sets a FLOW attribute in the PCF
which can be orientated using the flip grip. If a component is not flow dependent (has no FLOW
attribute in the PCF) it will not flip; even if a flip parameter exists in the block definition.
Reducers support flips such that the larger or smaller ends match adjacent components. This
assumes that reducers are created with the larger side on the left.
Flanges support flips such that the flanged side faces the flange connection. This assumes that
flanges are created with the flanged side on the left.
• For valve blocks you can add a point parameter named Operator at the operator location (for
example: the center point).
• Adding a point parameter CP to define the block center is recommended (but it is not required).

Iso Style Setup

Creates and configures iso styles for piping isometrics and spool drawings. Sets the paths and
directories where isometric drawings are stored.
Iso Style Setup
Creates or sets the Isometric style.

Iso Style Drop-down List

Displays a list of available iso styles.

New Style
 Opens the Create Iso Style dialog box, where you specify the name for a new iso
style.

Spool Drawing
Applies the iso style to spool drawings.

You can apply iso Styles to Isometric drawings or spool drawings. A spool drawing is a
subset of a piping isometric that has start and end points indicating the fabricated
subassembly.

Drawing Format
Place Field Welds at Maximum Pipe lengths
Splits pipes longer than the maximum specified pipe length into segments with field welds
placed between them.

Add Pipe Makeup length to BOM for Field Fit Welds

When field fit welds are encountered, adds the specified length of pipe to the total pipe
length in the BOM.

Table Overflow

Specifies whether or not to split the drawing if a BOM table becomes too large.

File Naming
File Naming
Specifies whether file naming is by Line Number - Sheet Number (alphabetical) or Line
Number - Sheet Number (numeric), which is the default. Can be set only for Isometric
Drawing style. Spool drawings have the spool number as the file name.

Add property
Adds properties to the file name. You can edit the Prefix box to remove properties after they
have been added.

Spools
Defines the spool sizing convention for a style.

Sizing Method
Specifies whether spool sizing is automatic based on maximum size or on maximum weight.
Or you can specify that the spool number from the model be used. If you choose maximum
size or weight, you can enter the specific dimensions or weight in the boxes below the drop-
down list.

Identify Maximum Pipe Length Segments as Spools

Specifies that segments with maximum pipe lengths are spools.
 Iso style paths
Defines the Iso output paths.

Production Iso Output Directory

Sets the location of the production iso output directory.

Quick Iso Output Directory

Sets the location of the quick iso output directory. Quick isos are not added to the project.

Iso Style Default Settings

Sets defaults for the Advanced Iso Creation Options.

You can set defaults for the advanced options specified when you run a production Iso or a quick
Iso. This allows you to easily specify the same advanced options for each Iso in a project.
Drawing & Output
Advanced Iso Creation Options dialog box

Drawing congestion splitting

Advanced Iso Creation Options dialog box

Data formats (Mixed Metric)

Applies to mixed-metric projects.
 Decimals
Sets the decimal delimiter (period, comma, or space).

Dates
Sets British, European, or American format for date display and the number of digits in the
year.

System
Specifies Imperial or Metric units.

Attribute
Sets formatting and precision for attribute, annotation, and bill of material text. You can
specify a different format for Sizes and Pipe Length.

Dimensioning / Annotations
Specifies dimension and annotation types for the default (piping) theme. These options can
also be set on the Dimensions and Annotations node.

Annotations

Sets the formatting for annotations on isometric drawings.

Iso Style
Displays a list of available iso styles.

Annotations Shown on Drawings

Specifies which tables have callout annotations.

Bill of Materials
Indexing

Specifies whether numbering is alphabetic or numeric.

Leader Line
Specifies whether a leader line connects the object to its annotation, with or without an
arrow. You can also choose Do Not Display a leader line.

Enclosure
Specifies the shape of the enclosure, circle, diamond, hexagon, rectangle, oval, square
brackets, diamond brackets, or round brackets. You can also choose No Enclosure.

Expand Enclosures
Expands graphics to accommodate annotation text. Some enclosure symbols always
expand. Ignored when using Isometric planes.

Use Isometric Planes

Displays annotations skewed in a standard isometric plane.

Flanged Prefixes
Specifies a callout prefix for Flanges (F), Gaskets (G), or Bolts (B).

Valves
Show tag number annotations for
Specifies the type of valves to be annotated, control and non-control valves

Control valves

Specifies the annotation type for a control valve. You can also choose Do Not Display.

Non-control valves
Specifies the annotation type for all other (non-control) valves.

Spools
Numbering

Specifies how the annotations are numbered. The options are as follows:

• Automatic (numeric)
• Automatic (alphabetic)
• Automatic (LineNum-numeric)
• Automatic (LineNum-alphabetic)
• Use spool number from model

Welds
Numbering
 Specifies whether numbering is alphabetic or numeric. Or you can use a property from the
model.

Welds to Number
Specifies whether to number all welds, shop welds, or fields welds.

Enclosure Type (Shop)

Specifies the enclosure types for a shop weld.

Enclosure Type (Field)

Specifies the enclosure types for a field weld.

Cut Pieces
Numbering
Specifies whether numbering is alphabetic or numeric.

Text
Height and enclosure
Specifies iso text height for annotations. For enclosure graphics, symbols are scaled by this
value.

Connections and Continuations

List in box
Specifies which end connections coordinates are displayed for the selected iso type. Options
are:

• Iso sheet continuation (to)

• Iso sheet continuation (from)
• Other connected pipe lines
• Connected equipment nozzles
• Vents
• Drains
• Open pipe ends
• Closed pipe ends
Note: Iso Sheet Connection (to) and Iso Sheet Connection (from) only work through a split.
Non-split connections annotation should use Other connected pipe lines.
Show End Connection Annotation on Iso

Specifies whether end-connection annotations appear on the isometric drawing.

Connection text
 Specifies the connection text. Enter property names in angled brackets.

Append coordinates and elevation

Specifies whether coordinates and elevation information is to be added to the annotation.

Coordinate Prefixes
Specifies prefixes for the X, Y, and Z coordinates.

Topics in this section

• Properties for Iso End Connection Annotations

Sets text for Iso end connection annotation from 3D model
properties.

Dimensions

Sets the format for dimensions placed in isometric drawings.

Pipeline Dimensions
Valves
Lists valve types for which you can specify a dimension style. For each valve type you can
specify overall length and center.

Text
Specifies the text height of the text style used by dimensions. By default, this sets the text
height of the AdskIsoImperial or AdskIsoMetric text style. You can set luprec in the title block
editor to set the number of digits displayed.
Insulation
Displays offset lines for insulation.

Gaskets
Specifies one of the following types of gasket handling:

• Include in component dimension

• Dimension gaskets individually
• Do not dimension gaskets
Offset Distance
Specifies the distance from the pipe line to the closest dimension (first row).

Stacking Distance

Specifies the distance between dimension rows.

Valve Dimensioning Behavior

Lists valve types for which you can specify a dimension style. For each valve type you can
specify overall length and center.

Alternate Line Settings

Small Bore Piping Up To and Including
Specifies the size limit for small bore piping.

Existing Piping Includes

Sets an additional status criteria for displaying "Existing piping." The default selection list for
status contains Demolition, Existing, and New. You can add a value (By Vendor, for
example) to the selection list and specify that it also trigger the display of "Existing piping."

Do Not Overconstrain String Dimensions

 Removes the last string dimension in a linear piping segment when used with end to end
dimensions to avoid overconstraining the dimensions.

Themes

Specifies dimension, annotation, and iso symbol scale for piping and override themes.

The default theme specifies iso options for normal piping. Named themes (for example: Fitting to
Fitting, Small Bore Piping, Existing Piping, and Continuation Piping) apply in special cases. The
named themes are also called Override Themes.

You can specify theme layers in the Override Themes tab of the Iso Themes dialog box in the iso
Title Block editor. For example, you can specify that all existing piping is placed on
the Existing layer.
Themes
Themes List
Iso themes are used to designate different behaviors for different kinds of piping. The Default
theme affects the majority of piping, but it is also possible to assign different dimensioning
behavior for the named themes.

Enabled
Turns a theme on or off. If a theme is disabled, piping that would match that theme behaves
like normal piping (the default theme). For example, if you disable the
 Continuation/Connection Piping theme continuation graphics displays like normal piping
(default theme) and is not placed on the grey Continuation layer.

Dimensions
Specifies whether to display dimensions.

Annotations
Specifies whether to display annotations.

Bill of Materials Report

Specifies whether to display reporting in BOM.

Scale
Specifies the iso symbol scale for a theme. The default theme specifies the symbol scale for
the most of the iso symbols. You can specify a different symbol scale for each of the named
themes. For example, you can specify a smaller scale for existing piping.

Dimension Types
End to End (Overall) Type Dimensions
Measures piping segments endpoint-to-endpoint for the selected iso style. You can optionally
have the measuring stop at valves and branches.

String Type Dimensions

Measures overall piping segments for the selected iso style, stopping at inline components,
such as reducers, valves, and so on.

Locating Type Dimensions

Measures from a common point, such as an elbow, to an object's location, such as a field
weld or pipe support, and then stops.

Dimensioning Behavior

Sets dimension type options for specific components such as field welds, blind flanges and
caps, inline branches, inline instruments, miscellaneous fittings, olets, pipe supports and so
on. You can set the following:

• Dimension stop points - specifies measuring from one end only, from the center, or the
overall length of a component. Valves are listed, but the options are shown on the valve
chart below.
• End to End - You can specify end to end dimensioning for a component. Available when the
end to end dimension type check box is selected.
• String - You can specify string dimensioning for a component. Available when the string
dimension type check box is selected.
• Locating - You can specify locating dimensioning for a component. Available when the
locating dimension type check box is selected.
Sloped and Offset Piping

Specifies formatting for sloped lines, including falls, 2D offsets, and 3D offsets.

Iso Style
Displays a list of available iso styles.

Sloped Piping
Show Falls As
 Specifies a fall type. The options include Angle, Ratio, Percentage, Gradient, Imperial
Incline, Metric Incline, Suppress Falling Line Indication.

Show As Fall Up To
Specifies the angle above which is considered offset piping.

Offset Piping and Annotation Options

Percentage of Triangle to Hatch
Sets the percentage of the triangle to hatch. You can select a percentage from the drop-
down list or enter the percentage you want.

Display Offset Annotation

Displays angle annotation on the skew triangle.

Offset Piping
Show 2D Vertical/Horizontal Offsets As
Specifies how simple (2D) offsets display in the isometric drawing.

Show Sloped Pipe With a 2D Horizontal Offset As

Specifies how horizontal (2D) offsets on sloped piping display.

Show Rolled Offsets (3D Skews) As

Sets the type of visual indicator displayed in a drawing when 3D skews are present. Options
are 3D Box and Two Skew Triangles.

Specifies how rolling offsets (3D) display.

Title Block and Display

Sets up the title block for isometric drawings.

Iso Style
Displays a list of available iso styles.

Title Block Preview

Setup Title Block

Displays the Block Authoring Palette and Title Block toolbar.

Title Block Preview

Displays a preview of the selected title block.
 Isometric Drawing Template (DWT)
Sets the location where the template and configuration files for the specified iso type are
stored. You can browse to select a different location.

Display
Edit Isometric Symbols
Clicking this button opens up the IsoSymbolStyles.dwg in the AutoCAD block editor, where
you can browse and edit Iso blocks. Closing the block editor returns you to the Project Setup
window.

Elbow Display
Sets rounded or square elbows.

Bend Display
Sets rounded or square bends.

Display Pipe Supports on Isometric drawing

Specifies whether pipe supports are displayed.

Topics in this section

• Insert Title Block Attributes Dialog Box

Inserts data from formatted project fields into the title block of an isometric drawing.
• Table Setup Dialog Box
Configures BOM tables that display in Iso and Ortho drawings.
• Iso Themes Dialog Box
Configures the default and override themes for the isometric title block.
Parent topic: Isometric Configuration (Isos)

Related Concepts

• Project Configuration
• About Configuring an Isometric Drawing Title Block

Live Preview

Displays a preview of an Iso style in project setup.

Isometric Live Preview allows you to review style changes made in Project Setup before saving
changes to the style.
Specify a PCF file for preview
Specifies the PCF file to use in a live preview. You can use the Browse button to specify a
different preview file.

To View Isometric Creation Details

 After you generate an isometric drawing, you can review the creation details to check for errors and
warnings and to verify the location and number of Piping Component Files (PCF) created. While a
job is being processed in the background, you can check its status by placing the cursor over the
isometric icon on the right side of the status bar.

1. In the status tray, double-click the isometric icon .

2. The Isometric Creation Results dialog box displays.

Note: Only isometric details from the current session are accessible by clicking the status tray icon.
To view details from a prior session, review the isometric log file.

• In Windows Explorer, navigate to the Drawings folder that corresponds to the iso style (check,
stress, or final) used to created the isometric drawing.
• In the Windows Explorer selection box, right-click the log file and click Open.

To Create an Iso Message

1. On the ribbon, click Isos tab Iso Annotations panel Iso Message.
2. In the Create Iso Message dialog box, Enclose Message In drop-down list, click the message
enclosure.
3. Enter the desired message text in the Message box.
4. To create a locating dimension for the message, select the Draw Dimension to Message check box.
5. Click OK.
6. In the drawing area, specify an insertion point on the center line of pipe or a fitting.

A marker is added inside the pipe. You can see it if you switch to wireframe view.

To Work with PCF Files

You can create PCF files without creating Iso drawings. You can also create Iso drawings directly
from PCF files.

When you generate an isometric drawing from the model, a Piping Component File (PCF) is
automatically created. Even if you are not generating an isometric drawing, you can export a PCF if
you need one for the stress engineer or pipe fabricator.

You can later import the PCF file to create an isometric drawing. You can also import a PCF file that
is created from another program.
 To export a PCF file
1. On the ribbon, click Isos tab Export panel PCF Export.
2. In the Export PCF dialog box, select the Line numbers to export.
3. Click Create.
A separate PCF file is created for each line number selected.

To create an Iso drawing from a PCF file

1. On the ribbon, click Isos tab Iso Creation panel PCF to Iso.
2. In the Create Iso from PCF dialog box, click Add.
3. Specify one or more PCF files to create isometric drawings from.
4. Click Create.

To import a PCF file into the 3D model

1. On the ribbon, click Home tab Part Insertion panel PCF to Pipe.
2. Specify one or more PCF files to import (for example: \Isometric\Live Preview\Sample
PCF\SampleIsoPreview.pcf) and click Open. The PCF to Pipe dialog box displays.
3. If spec unavailable displays in the Status column do the following:

• Click the settings button. The PCF to Pipe Settings dialog box displays.
• In the Plant 3D Spec column, click on a project spec to match the PCF spec.
• Repeat until all Plant 3D specs are assigned.

Note: The placeholder spec is used for any PCF specs not mapped (spec unavailable).

• Click OK

• If you prefer not to import a PCF file that could not map to a project spec, click the Remove
button.
4. Click Create Piping.
For example, the PCF used in the Live Preview adds piping, fittings, and valves to the model.

To Lock a Line and Mark Isometric DWGs as Issued

You can lock lines to indicate that they have been sent for fabrication and should no longer be
changed. Locking does the following:

• Filters all components on that line out of the selection set if the selection is used to modify objects
• Disables grips
• Prevents connections except at an open port
• Prevents the addition of components

1. In the Project Manager, click the Isometric DWG tab.

2. In the Isometrics tree view, expand the project and the Isometric Drawings folder.
3. Right-click the line number you want to lock and mark as issued. Click Lock Line and Issue.

To unlock the line, right click the line number and click Unlock Line.

To Save Iso Split Points in the 3D Model

If you create isometric drawings with split points that are automatically specified (Drawing
Congestion Splitting) you can import the split points and save them into the model.

You must create isometric drawings with Create Split Points Automatically enabled in the current
drawing session to follow this procedure. If you have not, the Isometrics Creation Results dialog box
is not available.

1. In the status bar, click the isometrics icon to display the

Isometric Creation Results dialog box.
2. Click Convert Split Points. the Convert Split Points dialog box displays.
3. In the Iso Style dialog box, specify the Iso Style that you want to import split points from.

Note: If the Iso Style that you want to import split points from is not displayed, you can use
the plantisosplitpointscommand instead.

4. In the lines available column, click a line. The line highlights blue.
5. If you want to import additional line numbers, press and hold CTRL and click to specify additional
lines.
6. If you want to import the Start Point, select Place Start Point for the line.
7. If you want to replace existing break points, select Replace Break Points.

Note: If you selected Ignore Break Points from Model when you created the isometric drawings and
have existing split points saved in the 3D model, it is recommended that you replace break points.
Parent topic: Workflow: Isometric Drawing Start and Split Points
Previous topic: To Create a Single Isometric Drawing Sheet
Parent topic: Tasks (Isos)

To Specify an Isometric Start Point in the 3D Model

Without specifying a start point, the beginning of the line can be arbitrary. You can place a start point
in the 3D model to specify a start point.
 For example, the valve assembly displays on sheet 3, but you want it to display on sheet 1.

1. On the ribbon, click Isos tab Iso Annotations panel Start Point.
2. Specify a point near the start of the line. The start point displays in the 3D model.

3. In the drawing area, specify an insertion point on the center line of pipe or a fitting. For example,
node snap to a valve port.

If the marker is obstructed, switch to wireframe view.

4.

If you create new isometric drawings, the valve assembly now displays on sheet one.
Note: You can save the isometric start point in the 3D model at the same time you save split points.
Placing a start point manually is required only if the default start point is not correct.