What are the best software options for pipe work design?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying useful software options for pipe work design, including considerations for material selection and adherence to specific design standards. The scope includes both general design tools and specialized software for routing and stress analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about software options that allow for material selection and compliance with design standards.
  • Another participant mentions that many software options can be expensive and suggests Google Sketchup may have a pipe design application, though they are uncertain.
  • A participant recommends using Intergraph's CADWorx for routing and CAESAR II for pipe stress analysis, or Bentley's AutoPLANT and AutoPIPE, noting their use in hospital design and the need for object enablers in certain applications.
  • It is suggested that for compact and custom routings, software like SolidWorks, Inventor, SolidEdge, or ProE may be more beneficial.
  • A further suggestion includes AFT Fathom for fluid flow analysis in piping systems, particularly when pumps and tanks are involved.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a variety of software options and preferences, indicating multiple competing views on the best tools for pipe work design. No consensus on a single best option is reached.

Contextual Notes

Some software mentioned may require additional components or enablers for full functionality, and the discussion does not clarify the specific standards or requirements that might influence software choice.

Who May Find This Useful

Professionals and students in engineering, particularly those focused on mechanical, civil, or piping design, may find this discussion relevant.

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What are some usefull softwares to use for pipe work design? Are there any softwares where you can select material? Can design to specific standards?
 
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Most cost quite a bit of money. I think Google Sketchup has a pipe design app. Not sure though.
 
If you work in the realm of AutoCAD/BIM, consider pairing Intergraph's CADWorx (for routing) and CAESAR II (pipe stress analysis) or Bentley's AutoPLANT + Piping (for routing) and AutoPIPE (for stress analysis). In hospital design, I remember having to download lots of object enablers for either CADduct/MEP (MAP Software) or TSI (Technical Sales International). It seems like the mechanical piping and duct contractors had a preference for using them.

If you are doing compact, custom routings SolidWorks/Inventor/SolidEdge/ProE might be of more use.
 
Also, for fluid flow in piping systems with pumps and tanks (and whatever else, really): AFT Fathom (Arrow for air) is pretty useful.
 

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