3
$\begingroup$

A while back, I asked this question for a free Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID) software on softwarerecs.SE. I described the core features of a P&ID software thusly:

Where a proper P&ID software differs from a drawing tool like Visio or Diag is that the P&ID tool can output a parts list listing all components and connectors. Components and connecting lines can have additional specifications (like the power and type of a motor, or the size and material and pressure level of a pipe). This specifications can then be written to the material/component list.

Confession time: I've never worked with a P&ID software, this is just what I think (from poring over plans and counting valves) would be really helpful.

What core features do working engineers need from a modern P&ID tool?

Edit to clairfy: I'm not looking for a specific product, I'm looking for the core features that make a tool great.

Improve this question
$\endgroup$
4
  • $\begingroup$ I want to add a P&ID tag, but the & is omitted, also what is a good tag for workflow or engineering-process or productivity? $\endgroup$ – mart Mar 25 '15 at 9:14
  • $\begingroup$ @mart I would avoid a P&ID tag if it rejects the ampersand, because that will be too easily confused with PID, which is a control scheme. Unless you already knew that, in which case, carry on not doing that. $\endgroup$ – Trevor Archibald Mar 25 '15 at 18:20
  • $\begingroup$ good idea to avoid 'pid', maybe piping-instrumentation-diagram? $\endgroup$ – mart Mar 25 '15 at 20:13
  • $\begingroup$ We generally do call them pi-diagrams maube that is a good tag name $\endgroup$ – joojaa Apr 19 '16 at 15:15
1
$\begingroup$

Axsys may be what you are looking for:

http://www.bentley.com/en-us/products/bentley+axsys+process/features-list.htm

You can link your drawings to your simulation files (HYSYS, PRO/II etc). I.e. Axsys can read relevant data (heat exchanger sizing, pipes, valves etc) and then allows you to generate datasheets, equipment lists etc. So if you need to make a design change you can just update your simulation file and it will propogate to your drawings (PFD and P&ID) and equipment datasheets.

Pretty convenient if you'll be going through several design iterations. That said, I haven't used it professionally so I can't say how well it works. And, its not free.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service, privacy policy and cookie policy

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.