19 - Modeling 3D Pipeline in OpenPlant Modeler

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of modeling piping and inline components using the OpenPlant Modeler. By following these steps, you'll learn how to create pipelines, place piping components, and ensure they are compatible with your P&ID drawings.

Step 1: Create a New Pipeline

• Open OpenPlant Modeler and select the “Piping” ribbon menu.
• Access the “Standard Preferences” command.
• In the “Standard Preferences” dialog, navigate to the Pipeline section.
• Click on “New” to create new associations.
• To use an existing pipeline, click the “Browse” button and select the pipeline created in the P&ID drawing stored in PlantSight.
• Click “OK” to confirm your selection.
• Review the details of the selected pipeline in the “Properties” tab.
• Click the “Save” button to initiate the routing of the pipeline.

Step 2: Route the Pipeline

• In the “Piping” ribbon menu, select the “Pipes” command.
• Choose the “Pipe” button in the Component Gallery dialog.
• Match the pipe properties to the existing nozzle or pipeline specification.
• Follow the prompts to enter the first point of the pipeline.
• Use AccuDraw and AccuSnaps for navigation:
  • Press T for top plane.
  • Press F for front plane.
  • Press S for side plane.
• Lock the current axis by pressing Enter.
• Route the pipe parallel to an existing pipeline using AccuSnap.
• For precise distance input, type in the desired length (e.g., 5500 mm) in AccuDraw and press Enter to lock the axis.
• Snap to the nozzle on top of the horizontal vessel.

Step 3: Model Fittings and Flanges

• Return to the “Standard Preferences” dialog and select the 60-SWO-0600 pipeline.
• Go to the “Piping” ribbon menu and choose the “Flanges” button to start placing a weld neck flange.
• Select “Flat Face Flange” from the Pipe Spec dialog and left-click to insert it onto the nozzle.
• The software will automatically generate the appropriate bolts and gaskets upon connection.
• To add another flange, select “Raised Face Flange” from the spec list dialog.

Step 4: Insert Valves

• Navigate to the “Valves” category and click the “Check Valve” button.
• Before inserting the valve, assign a tag:
  • Click the “Browse” button and select a tag that corresponds with the P&ID drawing.
• Connect the Check Valve to another Weld Neck Flange.
• If necessary, change the Placement Point from MAIN PORT to RUN PORT to ensure proper fitting connections (e.g., connecting a reducer with a flange).

Step 5: Add Elbows and Additional Components

• Insert a 90-degree elbow and connect it to a piece of pipe.
• For inserting a gate valve, select the valve tag from PlantSight.
• Use AccuDraw for precise placement, left-click to confirm the valve's position, and left-click again to set the hand wheel orientation.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you learned how to model piping and inline components in OpenPlant Modeler, including creating pipelines, placing fittings, and inserting valves. As you continue to work in OpenPlant, practice these steps to enhance your modeling skills and ensure your designs are accurate and compliant with your P&ID drawings.