Design Reference Manual Part3

PDMS DESIGN
Reference Manual
Part 3: Elements and Attributes
Version 11.6

pdms1160/Design Reference Manual Part3
issue 310804

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Revision History
Date Version Notes
March 2003 11.5 Nozzle element attributes revised.
August 2004 11.6 AREA elements added.
Weight/C of G pseudo-attributes for Branches added.
August 2004 11.6.1 Various updates and revisions.

VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual Revision History-i
Version 11.6
Revision History
Revision History-ii VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual
Version 11.6
Contents
Contents
1 Introduction................................................................................................... 1-1
1.1 About the DESIGN Reference Manual ........................................................ 1-1
1.2 Organisation of the DESIGN Reference Manual .......................................... 1-1
1.3 Organisation of this Manual ...................................................................... 1-2
2 The Design Database Hierarchy.................................................................. 2-1
3 Introduction to Attributes ............................................................................ 3-1
3.1 Attribute Types.......................................................................................... 3-2
4 Administrative and Reference Elements .................................................... 4-1
4.1 Administrative Elements............................................................................ 4-2
4.1.1 World Element (WORLD) Administrative Element................................. 4-2
4.1.2 Site Element (SITE) Administrative Element......................................... 4-2
4.1.3 Zone Element (ZONE) Administrative Element ..................................... 4-3
4.1.4 Group World Element (GPWL) Administrative Element......................... 4-3
4.1.5 Group Element (GROUP) Administrative Element................................. 4-4
4.1.6 General Text Element (TEXT) Administrative Element .......................... 4-4
4.1.7 Ground Model Element (GRDMODEL) Reference Element ................... 4-4
4.1.8 Site Boundaries and Roadways Element (BOUNDARY)Reference Element
4-5
4.1.9 Routing Plane Element (RPLANE) Reference Element .......................... 4-6
4.1.10 Penalty or Preferred Volume Element (PVOLUME) Reference Element
4-7
4.1.11 Datum Point Element (DATUM) Reference Element......................... 4-8
4.1.12 Area World Element (AREAWL) Administrative Element ................... 4-9
4.1.13 Area Set Element (AREASE) Administrative Element........................ 4-9
4.1.14 Area Definition Element (AREADE) Administrative Element ............. 4-9
4.1.15 Area Box Element (ABOX) Administrative Element......................... 4-10
4.1.16 Area Cone Element (ACONE) Administrative Element .................... 4-11
4.1.17 Area Cylinder Element (ACYL) Administrative Element .................. 4-12
4.1.18 Area Slope-Bottom Cylinder Element (ASLCY) Administrative Element
................................................................................................... 4-13
4.1.19 Area Circular Torus Element (ACTOR) Administrative Element ..... 4-14
4.1.20 Area Rectangular Torus Element (ARTOR) Administrative Element 4-15
4.1.21 Area Snout Element (ASNOU) Administrative Element ................... 4-16
4.1.22 Area Pyramid Element (APYR) Administrative Element................... 4-17
4.1.23 Area Dish Element (ADISH) Administrative Element ...................... 4-18
5 Equipment and Civils Elements .................................................................. 5-1
5.1 The Main Equipment and Civils Elements.................................................. 5-2
VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual Contents - i
Version 11.6
Revision History
5.1.1 Equipment Element (EQUIPMENT) Main Equipment/Civils Element ..... 5-2
5.1.2 Process Subequipment Element (SUBEQUIPMENT) Main .......................
Equipment/Civils Element........................................................................ 5-3
5.1.3 Structure Element (STRUCTURE) Main Equipment/Civils Element ....... 5-4
5.1.4 Pipe Track Element (PTRACK) Main Equipment/Civils Element............. 5-5
5.1.5 Substructure Element (SUBSTRUCTURE) Main Equipment/Civils ..........
Element ............................................................................................. 5-6
5.2 The Primitive Modelling Elements .............................................................. 5-7
5.2.1 Nozzle Element (NOZZ) Primitive Element ............................................ 5-7
5.2.2 BOX Element (BOX) Primitive Element ................................................ 5-9
5.2.3 Cylinder Element (CYLI) Primitive Element ........................................ 5-10
5.2.4 CONE Element Primitive Element ..................................................... 5-11
5.2.5 Snout Element (SNOU) Primitive Element .......................................... 5-12
5.2.6 DISH Element Primitive Element ....................................................... 5-13
5.2.7 Circular Torus Element (CTOR) Primitive Element ............................. 5-14
5.2.8 Rectangular Torus Element (RTOR) Primitive Element ....................... 5-15
5.2.9 Pyramid Element (PYRA) Primitive Element........................................ 5-16
5.2.10 Slope-Bottom Cylinder Element (SLCY) Primitive Element.............. 5-17
5.2.11 Extrusion Element (EXTRU) Primitive Element .............................. 5-18
5.2.12 Solid of Revolution (REVO) Primitive Element ................................ 5-19
5.2.13 Loop Element (LOOP) Primitive Element ........................................ 5-20
5.2.14 Vertex Element (VERT) Primitive Element...................................... 5-20
5.2.15 Polyhedron Element (POHE) Primitive Element .............................. 5-21
5.2.16 Polygon Element (POGO) Primitive Element ................................... 5-22
5.2.17 Solid Polyhedron Element (POLYHE) Primitive Element.................. 5-23
5.2.18 Polyhedron Point List Element (POLPTL) Primitive Element............ 5-25
5.2.19 Polyhedron Face Element (POLFAC) Primitive Element .................. 5-25
5.2.20 Polyhedron Loop Element (POLOOP) Primitive Element.................. 5-26
5.2.21 Loop Points Element (LOOPTS) Primitive Element.......................... 5-27
5.2.22 Drawn Line Element (DRAWI) Primitive Element............................ 5-28
5.2.23 Point Element (POINT) Primitive Element....................................... 5-29
5.2.24 Invisible Point Element (IPOINT) Primitive Element........................ 5-30
5.2.25 Tangent Point Element (TANPOINT) Primitive Element ................... 5-30
5.3 Holes in Primitive Elements ..................................................................... 5-31
5.3.1 Negative Box Element (NBOX) Primitive Element................................ 5-32
5.3.2 Negative Cylinder Element (NCYL) Primitive Element ......................... 5-33
5.3.3 Negative Cone Element (NCON) Primitive Element.............................. 5-34
5.3.4 Negative Snout Element (NSNO) Primitive Element ............................ 5-34
5.3.5 Negative Dish Element (NDIS) Primitive Element................................ 5-35
5.3.6 Negative Circular Torus Element (NCTO) Primitive Element................ 5-35
5.3.7 Negative Rectangular Torus Element (NRTO) Primitive Element.......... 5-36
5.3.8 Negative Slope-Bottomed Cylinder Element (NSLC) Primitive Element 5-36
5.3.9 Negative Pyramid Element (NPYR) Primitive Element.......................... 5-37
5.3.10 Negative Extrusion Element (NXTR) Primitive Element................... 5-38
5.3.11 Negative Solid of Revolution Element (NREV) Primitive Element ..... 5-39
5.3.12 Loop Element (LOOP) Primitive Element ........................................ 5-40
5.3.13 Vertex Element (VERT) Primitive Element...................................... 5-40
5.3.14 Negative Polyhedron Element (NPOLYH) Primitive Element ............ 5-40
Contents - ii VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual
Version 11.6
Contents
5.4 Elements for Connecting Equipment to Steelwork .................................... 5-42
5.4.1 Equipment Load Point Element (LOAP) Primitive Element .................. 5-42
6 The Structural Elements .............................................................................. 6-1
6.1 The Structural Design Elements ................................................................ 6-2
6.1.1 Structure Element (STRUCTURE) Structural Design Element ............... 6-2
6.1.2 Framework Element (FRMW) Structural Design Element ...................... 6-3
6.1.3 Subframework Element (SBFR) Structural Design Element................... 6-4
6.1.4 Primary Node Element (PNODE) Structural Design Element.................. 6-5
6.1.5 Primary Joint Element (PJOINT) Structural Design Element ................. 6-6
6.1.6 Structural Section Element (SCTN) Structural Design Element ............. 6-7
6.1.7 Generic Section Element (GENSEC) Structural Design Element ............ 6-8
6.1.8 Spine Element (SPINE) Structural Design Element ............................. 6-11
6.1.9 Spine Point Element (POINSP) Structural Design Element .................. 6-11
6.1.10 Curve Element (CURVE) Structural Design Element....................... 6-12
6.1.11 Justification Line Datum Element (JLDATUM) Structural Design .......
Element....................................................................................... 6-12
6.1.12 Pline Datum Element (PLDATUM) Structural Design Element......... 6-13
6.1.13 Secondary Node Element (SNODE) Structural Design Element ....... 6-14
6.1.14 Secondary Joint Element (SJOINT) Structural Design Element....... 6-14
6.1.15 Primary Compound Joint Element (PCOJ) Structural Design ...
Element....................................................................................... 6-16
6.1.16 Secondary Compound Joint Element (SCOJ) Structural Design Element
................................................................................................... 6-17
6.1.17 SubJoint Element (SUBJ) Structural Design Element..................... 6-18
6.1.18 Fitting Element (FITT) Structural Design Element .......................... 6-19
6.1.19 Compound Fitting Element (CMFI) Structural Design Element ....... 6-20
6.1.20 Subfitting Element (SBFI) Structural Design Element..................... 6-21
6.1.21 Generic Fixing Element (FIXING) Structural Design Element .......... 6-22
6.1.22 Routing Plane Group (RPLG) Structural Design Element ................ 6-23
6.1.23 Routing Plane Element (RPLANE) Structural Design Element ......... 6-24
6.1.24 Panel Element (PANEL) Structural Design Element ........................ 6-25
6.1.25 Panel Loop Element (PLOO) Structural Design Element.................. 6-26
6.1.26 Panel Vertex Element (PAVE) Structural Design Element................ 6-26
6.1.27 Panel Linear Joint Element (PALJ) Structural Design Element........ 6-27
6.1.28 Section Linear Joint Element (SELJ) Structural Design Element..... 6-28
6.1.29 Section Vertex Element (SEVE) Structural Design Element............. 6-28
6.1.30 Panel Fitting Element (PFIT) Structural Design Element ................. 6-29
6.1.31 Panel Cofitting Element (COFI) Structural Design Element ............. 6-30
6.1.32 Compound Panel Fitting Element (CMPF) Structural Design ....
Element....................................................................................... 6-30
6.2 The Stress Analysis Elements .................................................................. 6-32
6.2.1 Load Case Descriptor Element (LCDE) Stress Analysis Element......... 6-32
6.2.2 Nodal Release Element (RELEASE) Stress Analysis Element .............. 6-32
6.2.3 Nodal Load Element (NOLO) Stress Analysis Element ........................ 6-34
6.2.4 Nodal Displacement Element (NODI) Stress Analysis Element ........... 6-34
6.2.5 Section Point Load Element (SPLO) Stress Analysis Element ............. 6-35
6.2.6 Section Distributed Load Element (SDLO) Stress Analysis Element ... 6-36
VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual Contents - iii
Version 11.6
Revision History
7 The Piping Elements.................................................................................... 7-1
7.1 The Main Piping Elements ......................................................................... 7-2
7.1.1 Pipe Element (PIPE) Main Piping Element ............................................ 7-2
7.1.2 Branch Element (BRANCH) Main Piping Element ................................. 7-4
7.1.3 Branch Head and Tail Main Piping Element ......................................... 7-8
7.1.4 Restraint Element (RESTRAINT) Main Piping Element.......................... 7-9
7.1.5 Pipe Hanger Element (HANGER) Main Piping Element.......................... 7-9
7.2 The Hanger Components.......................................................................... 7-11
7.2.1 Pipe Clamp Element (PCLAMP) Hanger Component ........................... 7-11
7.2.2 Steel Clamp Element (SCLAMP) Hanger Component .......................... 7-12
7.2.3 Hanger Element (HELEMENT) Hanger Component ............................ 7-13
7.3 Piping Components.................................................................................. 7-14
7.3.1 Attachment Point Element (ATTA) Piping Component......................... 7-14
7.3.2 Bend Element (BEND) Piping Component .......................................... 7-16
7.3.3 Cap Element (CAP) Piping Component ............................................... 7-17
7.3.4 Closure Element (CLOS) Piping Component....................................... 7-18
7.3.5 Coupling Element (COUPLING) Piping Component............................. 7-19
7.3.6 Cross Element (CROSS) Piping Component........................................ 7-20
7.3.7 Duct Element (DUCT) Piping Component........................................... 7-22
7.3.8 Elbow Element (ELBOW) Piping Component ...................................... 7-23
7.3.9 Blind Flange Element (FBLIND) Piping Component ............................ 7-24
7.3.10 Filter Element (FILTER) Piping Component.................................... 7-25
7.3.11 Flange Element (FLANGE) Piping Component................................ 7-26
7.3.12 Fixed Length Tube Element (FTUBE) Piping Component ................ 7-27
7.3.13 Gasket Element (GASKET) Piping Component ............................... 7-28
7.3.14 Instrument Element (INSTRUMENT) Piping Component ................ 7-29
7.3.15 Lap-Joint Stub-End Element (LJSE) Piping Component................. 7-30
7.3.16 Olet Element (OLET) Piping Component ........................................ 7-32
7.3.17 General Piping Component Element (PCOMPONENT) Piping
Component
................................................................................................... 7-33
7.3.18 Reducer Element (REDUCER) Piping Component .......................... 7-35
7.3.19 Standard Hook-Up Element (SHU) Piping Component ................... 7-36
7.3.20 Tee Element (TEE) Piping Component .......................................... 7-37
7.3.21 Trap Element (TRAP) Piping Component........................................ 7-38
7.3.22 Union Element (UNION) Piping Component ................................... 7-39
7.3.23 Valve Element (VALVE) Piping Component .................................... 7-40
7.3.24 Vent Element (VENT) Piping Component ....................................... 7-42
7.3.25 Four-Way Valve Element (VFWAY) Piping Component.................... 7-43
7.3.26 Three-Way Valve Element (VTWAY) Piping Component .................. 7-44
7.3.27 Weld Element (WELD) Piping Component...................................... 7-45
Index
Contents - iv VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual
Version 11.6

1 Introduction
1.1 About the DESIGN Reference Manual
The VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual describes all the DESIGN
commands in detail. It also describes how the Design database is
structured, the Design database elements and their attributes.
DESIGN is normally used interactively. The Graphical User Interface (GUI)
provides discipline-based applications which help you to create, check and
report on the model. How to use the applications is described in user
guides and on-line help.
This manual is written for experienced users of PDMS DESIGN who need to
use commands; for example, to write batch macros or to customise the
GUI. If you are going to customise the GUI, you will also need to refer to the
Plant Design Software Customisation Guide and Plant Design Software
Customisation Reference Manual for information about PML, the AVEVA
programming language.
1.2 Organisation of the DESIGN Reference Manual
The DESIGN Reference Manual has four parts:
Part 1, General Commands, describes general DESIGN commands,
which are used, for example, for setting up the display, and querying
and navigating around the Design database.
In particular, it describes how to use the command syntax graphs,
which are used to show all the options available for each command.
Part 2, Creating the Model, describes the commands for creating
database elements and setting their attributes.
Part 3 (this volume) contains details of all the elements which can be
created in the Design database, their position in the database
hierarchy and their attributes.
Part 4, Utilities, describes the DESIGN Utilities for data consistency
checking and clash detection, and for exporting DESIGN data to
programs such as REVIEW.
VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual 1-1
Version 11.6
Introduction
1.3 Organisation of this Manual
Chapter 2, The DESIGN Database Hierarchy, shows all the Design database
elements arranged as a hierarchy.
Chapter 3, Introduction to Attributes, describes the different types of
attributes that Design database elements can have.
Chapter 4, Administrative and Reference Attributes, describes the Design
elements which do not have any graphical representation (Sites, Zones,
etc), and shows where they are described in the rest of the manual.
Chapters 5, 6 and 7 are the reference chapters for Equipment and Civils
Elements, Structural Elements and Piping Elements respectively.
Note: For a comprehensive list of PDMS attributes and pseudo-attributes,
see the Plant Design Software Customisation Reference Manual.
1-2 VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual
Version 11.6

2 The Design Database Hierarchy
This chapter shows the hierarchy of all the elements available in the Design
database.

WORLD
SITE
ZONE DRAWING GROUND Model
POINT
INVISIBLE POINT
TANGENT POINT
POINT
INVISIBLE POINT
DATUM RESTRAINT PENALTY
VOLUME
ROUTING
PLANE
STRUCTURE PIPE PIPE
TRACK
EQUIPMENT
BOUNDARY
HVAC
GROUP WORLD
GROUP
POINT
INVISIBLE POINT
TANGENT POINT
POLYGON
BOUNDARY
POINT
INVISIBLE POINT
TANGENT POINT
See Figure 2-6
See Figure 2-2
See Figure 2-2
AREA WORLD
AREA
SET
AREA
DEFINITION
See Section 4.1.12

Figure 2-1 The top levels of the Design database hierarchy
Version 11.6
The Design Database Hierarchy
ZONE
RESTRAINT EQUIPMENT
PIPE
NOZZLE BRANCH HANGER
SCLAMP
PCLAMP
HELEM
SUBEQUIPMENT
Piping
components
Design
primitives
HVAC
BRANCH
HVAC
components
NOZZLE Design
primitives
See Figure 2-5
See Figure 2-5
See Figure 2-3 See Figure 2-4

Figure 2-2 The Equipment and Piping (including Hangers and HVAC
elements) hierarchy

ELBO BEND TEE VALVE
REDUCER FLANGE GASKET VENT
WELDOLET BLIND FLANGE FILTER COUPLING
STANDARD HOOK-UP THREE-WAY VALVE CAP WELD
FIXED TUBE LENGTH FOUR-WAY VALVE UNION TRAP
LAP-JOINT STUB END DUCTING CROSS CLOSURE
ATTACHMENT POINT INSTRUMENT
GENERAL PIPE COMPONENT
Figure 2-3 Piping components
AHU Air handling unit OFST Offset
BATTERY PLATE
BCRO Branch connector PLENUM
COWL SILENCER
DAMPER SKIRT
FLEX Flexible bend or tube SPLITTER
GASKET STIFFENER
GRILLE STRT Straight
HACC Access panel TAPER
HFAN Centrifugal fan THREEWAY
HSADDLE TP Test point
IDAM Internal damper TRNS Transformation
MESH
Figure 2-4 HVAC components
Version 11.6
These all have negative
equivalents which can
be owned by positive
primitives:
CYLINDER
BOX
PYRAMID
SNOUT
CONE
DISH
CIRCULAR TORUS
RECTANGULAR TORUS
SLOPE-BOTTOMED
CYLINDER
Other positive
primitives:
POLYHEDRON which can
own
POLYGON

EXTRUSION which can own
LOOP which can own
VERTEX

SOLID OF REVOLUTION
which can own
LOOP which can own
VERTEX
Other negative
primitives:

EXTRUSION which can own
LOOP which can own
VERTEX

SOLID OF REVOLUTION
which can own
LOOP which can own
VERTEX

Figure 2-5 Design primitives

STRUCTURE
SUBSTRUCTURE DRAWING POLYHEDRON
POLYGON
FRAMEWORK
SECTION PRIMARY NODE PANEL
ROUTING PLANE
GROUP
LOAD CASE
DESCRIPTOR
ROUTING PLANE
SUBFRAMEWORK
DRAWING
PENALTY VOLUME
ROUTING PLANE
PANEL LINEAR J OINT
design
primitive
optional
GENERIC SECTION
See Figure 2-7 See Figure 2-8 See Figure 2-9 See Figure 2-10

Figure 2-6 The top-level Structural elements hierarchy

PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual 2-3
Version 11.6
SECTION
SECONDARY
NODE
SECTION POINT
LOAD
SECTION
DISTRIBUTED
LOAD
RELEASE
NODAL LOAD NODAL
DISPLACEMENT
SECTION
LINEAR J OINT
SECTION
VERTEX
SECONDARY
COMPOUND J OINT
SUBJ OINT
COMPOUND
FITTING
SUBFITTING
FITTING
SECONDARY
J OINT

Figure 2-7 The hierarchy under Sections

GENERIC SECTION
SPINE J LDATUM
POINSP
CURVE
PLDATUM
FIXING

Figure 2-8 The hierarchy under Generic Sections

PRIMARY NODE
PRIMARY
J OINT
RELEASE NODAL
LOAD
NODAL
DISPLACEMENT
PRIMARY
COMPOUND
J OINT
SUBJ OINT
FIXING

Figure 2-9 The hierarchy under Primary Nodes

Version 11.6

PANEL
PANEL
LINEAR J OINT
PANEL FITTING
PANEL VERTEX
PANEL LOOP
COFITTING negative design
primitives
COMPOUND
PANEL
FITTING
SUBFITTING
PANEL VERTEX

Figure 2-10 The hierarchy under Panels
Version 11.6

Version 11.6

3 Introduction to Attributes
All the Design attributes can be queried and set by the user. However,
many are automatically set as a result of DESIGN commands. Only the
attributes that you would normally set explicitly are described in full. The
ones that are set automatically are of interest because you can report on
them.
Note that some attributes are used exclusively by PDMS modules other
than DESIGN. These are not described here.
Attributes can be divided into two categories:
1. General attributes occur throughout the database; they are common
to most elements. For example, OWNER (every element in the Design
data has an owner), POS (position), ORI (orientation), BUILT (true or
false, indicating whether it has been constructed on site or not).
2. Special Attributes belong to particular elements or classes of
elements and have specific meanings for those elements; for example,
FLOWD (flow direction) in a Branch.
The special attributes are either self-explanatory or are explained in the
context of the element under which they appear in this chapter. The
general attributes are best considered in terms of their effect on the Design
Model, so their meanings and applications are described in the earlier
chapters.
Note: Some special attributes are only used for drawing control within
ISODRAFT or DRAFT. How the settings of these attributes are
applied is described in the ISODRAFT or DRAFT Reference Manual.

For a comprehensive list of all PDMS attributes and pseudo-
attributes, see the Plant Design Software Customisation Reference
Manual.
In addition to their standard attributes, elements may have one or more
user-defined attributes (UDAs). These are set and used in the same way
as standard attributes, except that the UDA names are distinguished by
being prefixed with a colon (:) character. For further details, see the
LEXICON Reference Manual.
Version 11.6
Introduction to Attributes
3.1 Attribute Types
The following is a list of all the Design attribute types.
Name Attribute
Every element except the WORLD can be given a name. All names start
with a slash / and consist of any number of name parts separated by
further slashes. The maximum length is 51 characters. A name part
consists of any string of characters, letters, or digits, with the exception of
$ or @. If the STAR command (qv) has been used, the * character has
special significance.
The names given to elements are purely for your convenience and have no
meaning in the system.
Examples: /HX42 /HX42/NOZ1 /16/23/NH4/H21/N4 /AREA3
Real Attribute
A real attribute holds a single real number (e.g. 25.5, -0.057, 25683.5, etc.).
Real attributes are generally used to store dimensions (e.g. DIAM, XLEN,
etc.).
Integer Attribute
An integer attribute holds a single integer or whole number (e.g. 1, -2,
4000, etc.). Integer attributes are used in Piping Components to identify
connection points (ARRIV, LEAVE); in Equipment Primitives to identify
obstruction levels for clash detection (OBSTR); etc.
Reference Attribute
A reference attribute holds a reference to another element. The attribute
holds the internal system reference number, e.g. =12/106, and not the
name of the element. Reference attributes are used to forge logical links
between elements. For example, the SPREF attribute is used to link a
Piping Component element in the Design to a Specification Component in a
Specification. Note that a reference attribute may be restricted to storing
the references of particular types of element (e.g. the SPREF reference of a
Piping Component may only contain the reference to a Specification
Component element, i.e. an element of type SPCOM). The restrictions on
individual reference attributes are shown in brackets with each attribute.
Logical Attribute
A logical attribute is either TRUE or FALSE. An example of its use is the
BUILT attribute in a Pipe which is needed to indicate whether the Pipe has
been constructed on site or not.
Word Attribute
A word attribute holds a string of up to four characters. Word attributes are
used, for example, to indicate the direction of flow in a branch (FORW,
BACK) etc.
Version 11.6
Text Attribute
A text attribute holds a string of up to 120 alphanumeric characters (e.g.
HP STEAM). This string must be input between closing single quotes or,
optionally, between vertical bars (useful for entering imperial units, e.g.
|46|).
Real Array Attribute
A real array attribute holds more than one real number. For example, the
position attribute (POS) consists of three real numbers and represents the
X, Y and Z coordinates which define the position of an element.
Integer Array Attribute
An integer array attribute holds more than one integer. For example, the
LEVEL attribute consists of two integers and is used to control the level
range of drawing detail.
Reference Array Attribute
A reference array attribute holds more than one reference to another
element. For example, a connection reference array (CRFA) is used to hold
the connection links of a four-way valve (VFWA) or a CROSS.
Noclaim Attribute
If an attribute is set to 'noclaim' it means that the attribute can be modified
without having to claim the element. This reduces contention in specific
area such as connecting branches to equipment where a number of piping
engineers can connect their branches to the same equipment. Note that
there would be no warning if two branches were connected to the same
nozzle with the last user to do a savework winning.
Version 11.6

Version 11.6

4 Administrative and Reference Elements
There are a number of elements in the Design Model whose range of
applicability is not confined to either Equipment, Piping or Civils. These
include administrative elements (e.g. WORLD, SITE, ZONE), and elements
which refer to restrictions and constraints set by the user (e.g. Penalty
Volume, Routing Plane). The elements and their attributes and Members
are explained in this section.
Version 11.6
Administrative and Reference Elements
4.1 Administrative Elements
4.1.1 World Element (WORLD) Administrative Element
Description: The WORLD is the topmost level of the design hierarchy within
which all other elements exist. It cannot be deleted or copied in the
same way that applies to, say, a ZONE or a BOX. Its existence is
controlled outside DESIGN by the ADMINISTRATION module of
PDMS.
Attributes:
Name /*
Lock false
Legal Owners: None
Legal Members: SITE, GPWL, TPWL
4.1.2 Site Element (SITE) Administrative Element
Description: The SITE is one level below WORLD and is the most significant
element that can be created, deleted, copied or moved. Each SITE
may represent a geographical or administrative division of the plant.
Attributes:
Name / name
Lock f al se
Owner / *
Posi t i on E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Or i ent Y i s N and Z i s U
Funct i on unset 120 char act er t ext
Pur pose unset 120 char act er t ext
Number 0
Ar ea 0
Modul e unset
Legal Owners: WORL
Legal Members: TEXT, ZONE, BOUN, DRAWI , GRDM, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS,
LNKS
Version 11.6
4.1.3 Zone Element (ZONE) Administrative Element
Description: The ZONE is the administrative element at the third level down the
hierarchy. It may represent a geographical or administrative division
of the plant and can directly own Equipment, Civils and Piping
elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Or i ent Y is N and Z is U
Descr i pt unset 120 character text
Funct i on unset 120 character text
Pur pose unset 120 character text
Number 0
Ar ea 0
Modul e unset
Pspec Nulref Pipe Specification
I spec Nulref Insulation Specification
Tspec Nulref Trace heating Specification
DUni on 0 DRAFT union (common edge) setting
The following attribute is used for VPRM integration:
Fst at us unset Status string for VPRM integration
Legal Owners: SITE
Legal Members: TEXT, BOUN, EQUI, PIPE, STRU, PTRA, PVOL, DRAWI, RPLA,
DATU, REST, HVAC, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
4.1.4 Group World Element (GPWL) Administrative Element
Description: This is a subsidiary World that contains only GROUPs and is owned
by the main WORLD element.
Attributes:
Name / name
Lock f al se
Owner / *
Descr i pt unset 120 char act er t ext
Legal Owners: WORL
Legal Members: GROU
Version 11.6
4.1.5 Group Element (GROUP) Administrative Element
Description: You may define as a GROUP any collection of elements in the
database, assembling these elements as a single GROUP unit.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: GPWL
Legal Members: None (but it can have offspring of any element type)
4.1.6 General Text Element (TEXT) Administrative Element
Description: TEXT is a general element that can occupy most positions in the
hierarchy. It can be used to store additional information about an
owning or adjacent element.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
St ext unset Up to 120 characters of text
Legal Members: None
Legal Owners: SITE, ZONE, EQUI, STRU, PTRA, PIPE, BOUN, DRAWI, GRDM,
SUBS, BRAN, REST, SUBE, FRMW, SBFR
4.1.7 Ground Model Element (GRDMODEL) Reference Element
Description: Basic shapes and features in the site can be represented by Ground
Models. These may be natural occurrences like mounds or slopes.
Each Ground Model element is built up in exactly the same way as a
POHEDRON (polyhedron) which is described elsewhere. Restrictions
on the form of Ground Models mean that they are of limited use.
Complex surface profiles are better approximated by a dummy
STRUCTURE containing any of the basic shapes.
Version 11.6
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Legal Owners: SITE
Legal Members: POGO, TEXT
4.1.8 Site Boundaries and Roadways Element (BOUNDARY)
Reference Element
Description: For site layout features such as fences and roadways it will often be
sufficient to restrict modelling to lines and arcs laid out on a surface.
The BOUNDARY element allows this method of modelling by
positioning member POINTS, IPOINTS (invisible points) and
TANPOINTS (tangent points) to describe the required outlines. The
BOUNDARY can be thought of as a high level basic element (its
identical low-level equivalent is the DRAWING, which can belong to
EQUIPMENT, STRUCTURES etc.). The BOUNDARY has the normal
drawing LEVEL attribute of a primitive, but no OBSTRUCTION (as it
is composed entirely of lines).
Attributes:
Name / name
Lock f al se
Owner /name
Or i ent Y i s N and Z i s U
Level 0 10
Descr i pt unset 120 char act er t ext
Legal Owners: SITE, ZONE
Legal Members: POIN, TANP, IPOI, TEXT
Version 11.6
4.1.9 Routing Plane Element (RPLANE) Reference Element
Description: This is a planar element that has special significance in pipe routing
(see Part 2 of the DESIGN Reference Manual), but may be used as a
general reference plane. See Part 2 of the DESIGN Reference Manual
for more information about routing planes in Pipe routing and in
Steelwork Structures.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 1
Xl engt h 0mm
Yl engt h 0mm
XLEN
Z
Y
X
YLEN

Figure 4-1 Special Attributes of RPLANE Elements
Legal Owners: ZONE, PTRA, EQUI, STRU, SUBS, SUBE (plus RPLG in Steelwork
applications).
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.10 Penalty or Preferred Volume Element (PVOLUME)
Reference Element
Description: This is a BOX-like volume that has a special significance to the pipe-
routing function of DESIGN (see Chapter 13). DESIGN can determine
whether to treat a PVOL as a Preferred or Penalty Volume, depending
on the relative values of the WEIGHT attribute. Penalty Volumes are
generally used for roads, access ways etc.
Attributes:
Name /PVOL name
Lock false
Owner name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Xl engt h 0mm
Yl engt h 0mm
Zl engt h 0mm
Wei ght 1 1 1 Three integers indicating whether the PVOL is a Penalty
or Preferred volume
XLEN
Z
Y
X
YLEN
ZLEN

Figure 4-2 Special Dimensional Attributes of PVOL Elements
Legal Owners: ZONE, PTRAC, STRU, SUBS, EQUI, SUBE
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.11 Datum Point Element (DATUM) Reference Element
Description: This point can be used as a reference position against which other
elements are located. It is shown as a set of axes with a local North
pointer.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Hei ght 0mm Length of the datum symbol axes; see Figure 16-4.
Skey unset A code which indicates the symbol and annotating
text which is to be shown when the element is used
as a reference datum for ISODRAFT dimensions.
St ext unset Text used to amplify the elements identity when
used as a reference datum for ISODRAFT
dimensions
HEIGHT

Figure 4-3 Special Attribute of DATUM Element
Legal Owners: ZONE
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.12 Area World Element (AREAWL) Administrative Element
Description: This is a subsidiary World that contains only AREASEs and is owned
by the main WORLD element.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /*
Legal Owners: WORL
Legal Members: AREASET
4.1.13 Area Set Element (AREASE) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: AREAWL
Legal Members: AREADEF
4.1.14 Area Definition Element (AREADE) Administrative
Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Number 0
Ar ea 0

Legal Owners: AREASE
Legal Members: ABOX, ACONE, ACYL, ASLCY, ACTOR, ARTOR, ASNOU, APYR,
ADISH
Version 11.6
4.1.15 Area Box Element (ABOX) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Xl engt h 0mm
Yl engt h 0mm
Zl engt h 0mm

Figure 4-4 The ABOX Element
Legal Owners: AREADE
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.16 Area Cone Element (ACONE) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Dt op 0mm Diameter of top surface
Dbot t om 0mm Diameter of bottom surface
Hei ght 0mm Axial height
X
Y
Z
P0
P2
P1
DTOP
DBOTTOM
HEIGHT

Figure 4-5 The ACONE Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.17 Area Cylinder Element (ACYL) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Di amet er 0mm Diameter
DIAM
HEIGHT
P1
P0
Z
Y
X
P2

Figure 4-6 The ACYL Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.18 Area Slope-Bottom Cylinder Element (ASLCY)
Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Xt shear 0 Inclination of top face to X-axis
Yt shear 0 Inclination of top face to Y-axis
Xbshear 0 Inclination of bottom face to X-axis
Ybshear 0 Inclination of bottom face to Y-axis
The origin of the Area Slope-bottom Cylinder is at the mid-point of the axis
(mid-way between P1 and P2) and the default orientation is with the axis on
the Z-axis.
HEIGHT
XBSH
XTSH
YTSH
YBSH
DIAM
P2 P2
SOUTH ELEV. WEST ELEV.
P0
Z
Y
X
P0
Z
P1 P1

Figure 4-7 The ASLCY Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.19 Area Circular Torus Element (ACTOR) Administrative
Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Ri nsi de 0mm Inside radius
Rout si de 0mm Outside radius
Angl e 90 Subtended angle (max. 180 degrees)
The origin of the Area Circular Torus is at the centre of the circular arcs of
radii RINSI and ROUTS, and is defined in the X-Y plane.

Figure 4-8 The ACTOR Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.20 Area Rectangular Torus Element (ARTOR) Administrative
Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
The origin of the Area Rectangular Torus is at the centre of the circular arcs
of radii RINSI and ROUTS, and is defined in the X-Y plane.

Figure 4-9 The ARTOR Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.21 Area Snout Element (ASNOU) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Xof f 0mm Displacement of axes along X-axis
Yof f 0mm Displacement of axes along Y-axis
Hei ght 0mm Perpendicular distance between surfaces
The origin of the Area Snout is at the mid-point of the line joining the
centres of the top and bottom surfaces and the Z-axis is normal to the top
and bottom surfaces.
X
Y
Z
P0
P2
P1
DTOP
DBOTTOM
YOFF
XOFF
HEIGHT

Figure 4-10 The ASNOU Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.22 Area Pyramid Element (APYR) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Xbot t om 0mm Dimension of bottom parallel to X-axis
Ybot t om 0mm Dimension of bottom parallel to Y-axis
Xt op 0mm Dimension of top parallel to X-axis
Yt op 0mm Dimension of top parallel to Y-axis
Hei ght 0mm Height between top and bottom surfaces
The origin of the Area Pyramid is at the mid-point of the line joining the
mid-points of the top and bottom surfaces, and the Z-axis is normal to the
top and bottom faces.
P1
P2
YBOTTOM
XBOTTOM
XTOP
YTOP
X
Y
Z
P0
YOFF
XOFF
HEIGHT

Figure 4-11 The APYR Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
4.1.23 Area Dish Element (ADISH) Administrative Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Di amet er 0mm Diameter of base
Hei ght 0mm Maximum height of dished surface above base
Radi us 0mm If radius is zero, dish is drawn as section of sphere.
If radius is greater than zero, dish is defined as half
of an ellipsoid:

The origin of the Area Dish is at the centre of the base, and the Z-axis lies
along the normal to the base.

Figure 4-12 The ADISH Element
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6

5 Equipment and Civils Elements
This section describes the elements of the Design hierarchy that are
available for modelling all non-piping (routed) items. The elements
mentioned only take on a physical appearance from the primitive shapes
that they own. The purpose of these elements is therefore to represent
assemblies of primitives that provide convenient and manageable items of
plant - structures, pumps, vessels, columns, stairways etc. In addition,
they possess different Special Attributes that can hold information relevant
to their function, construction status etc. This information can be reported
on, in a chosen format, using the standard PDMS reporting utilities.
Version 11.6
Equipment and Civils Elements
5.1 The Main Equipment and Civils Elements
5.1.1 Equipment Element (EQUIPMENT) Main Equipment/Civils
Element
Description: The EQUIPMENT element represents process vessels, storage
vessels, heat exchangers, pumps and any other predefined item that
is part of the plant. The unique feature of this element is that it may
own NOZZLEs in addition to the normal primitive shapes. Pipework
can be connected to the Nozzles, thus making EQUIPMENTs
intrinsic to the process system.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Number 0
Ar ea 0
Dscode Design Code (text).
Pt spec Paint Specification (text).
I spec Insulation Specification (text). This does not directly control
insulation, but may be used to indicate insulation requirements
for all connecting Pipes. It must refer to an existing Specification.
I nsched Inspection Schedule (text).
Skey A code which indicates the symbol and annotating text which is
to be shown when the element is used as a reference datum for
ISODRAFT dimensions.
St l Ref Steel reference; e.g. a pointer to an associated substructure
representing a vessel support.
Legal Owners: ZONE
Version 11.6
Legal Members: TEXT, NOZZ, BOX, CYLI, PYRA, DISH, CONE, SNOU, CTOR, RTOR,
SLCYL, POHE, DRAWI, PVOL, RPLA, SUBE, NBOX, NCYL, NSLC,
NSNO, NDIS, NCON, NPYR, NCTO, NRTO, LOAP, EXTR, NXTR,
REVO, NREV, RULS, NRUL, PANE, MNOZ, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE,
PORS, LNKS
5.1.2 Process Subequipment Element (SUBEQUIPMENT)
Main Equipment/Civils Element
Description: The SUBEQUIPMENT element is similar to the EQUIPMENT element, except
that it is owned by an EQUIPMENT element and cannot itself own
SUBEQUIPMENT elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Number 0
Ar ea 0
Dscode Design Code (text).
Pt spec Paint Specification (text).
I spec Insulation Specification (text). This does not directly control
insulation, but may be used to indicate insulation requirements
for all connecting Pipes. It must refer to an existing Specification.
I nsched Inspection Schedule (text).
Skey A code which indicates the symbol and annotating text which is to
be shown when the element is used as a reference datum for
Despar am Design Parameters. 100-fold real array used to convey data
between the Catalogue and the design.

Legal Owners: ZONE
Legal Members: TEXT, NOZZ, BOX, CYLI, PYRA, DISH, CONE, SNOU, CTOR, RTOR,
SLCYL, POHE, DRAWI, PVOL, RPLA, SUBE, NBOX, NCYL, NSLC,
NSNO, NDIS, NCON, NPYR, NCTO, NRTO, LOAP, EXTR, NXTR,
REVO, NREV, RULS, NRUL, PANE, MNOZ, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE,
PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
5.1.3 Structure Element (STRUCTURE) Main Equipment/Civils
Element
Description: The structural framework of the plant (for example, buildings, pipe
racks, equipment racks) can be modelled on a simple level using the
same basic set of primitive shapes available for Equipment (the main
difference being that such elements cannot own Nozzles).
The principal feature of the STRUCTURE element is its ability to own
SUBSTRUCTURES as well as primitive shapes, Routing Planes and
Penalty Volumes. This enables, say, a rack to be further divided into
beams and columns. (See also Section 6.1 for the use of this element
in designing Steelwork Structures.)
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Skey unset A code which indicates the symbol and annotating text
which will be shown when the element is used as a
reference datum for ISODRAFT dimensions.
Legal Owners: ZONE
Legal Members: SUBS, TEXT, BOX, CYLI, PYRA, DISH, CONE, SNOU, CTOR, RTOR,
SLCY, POHE, DRAWI, PVOL, RPLA, NBOX, NCYL, NSLC, NDIS,
NSNO, NCON, NPYR, NCTO, NRTO, (plus FRMW, RPLG, and LCDE in
Steelwork applications)
Version 11.6
5.1.4 Pipe Track Element (PTRACK) Main Equipment/Civils
Element
Description: The Pipe Track is a type of STRUCTURE along which pipes are to be
routed. It is a special element for the automatic pipe routing function
of DESIGN; it cannot own SUBSTRUCTURES.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Legal Owners: ZONE
Legal Members: TEXT, BOX, CYLI, PYRA, DISH, CONE, SNOU, CTOR, RTOR, SLCY,
POHE, DRAWI, PVOL, RPLA, EXTR, REVO, RULS, PANE, TMPL,
SPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
5.1.5 Substructure Element (SUBSTRUCTURE)
Main Equipment/Civils Element
Description: Minor structural elements such as beams, columns, walls, ladders
and staircases can be modelled with the standard set of basic
primitive shapes within a SUBSTRUCTURE element.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Number 0
Ar ea 0
Pr of i l e unset Can be used as description of, say, steel section
being used (e.g. 200 x 200 uc).
Lengt h 0mm Can indicate length of element; say the column
height. It has no physical significance - the real
dimensions of the member are modelled with
primitives.
Skey unset A code which indicates the symbol and
annotating text which is to be shown when the
element is used as a reference datum for
Legal Owners: STRU
Legal Members: TEXT, BOX, CYLI, PYRA, DISH, CONE, SNOU, CTOR, RTOR SLCY,
POHE, DRAWI, PVOL, RPLA, NBOX, NCYL, NSLC, NDIS, NSNO,
NCON, NPYR, NCTO, NRTO, EXTR, NXTR, REVO, NREV, RULS,
NRUL, PANE, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
5.2 The Primitive Modelling Elements
This section describes the elements that give the Equipment and Civils
items a real physical shape. They comprise standard solid shapes and a
special Component of EQUIPMENT items - the NOZZLE. These elements
can all be positioned and oriented within their owning item; in order to
facilitate this, they possess standard positioning points (p-points) which
also allow connection operations.
This comprehensive set of geometric shapes forms the physical information
from which non-piping items are constructed. Each shape has a set of
special attributes that give it a physical appearance, e.g. CYLINDER has
attributes DIAMETER and HEIGHT. All the primitives contain the
attributes LEVEL and OBSTRUCTION which allow them to be selectively
drawn in DESIGN or DRAFT, or clash checked in DESIGN. (DRAWI does
not have an OBSTRUCTION as it can only contain lines).
5.2.1 Nozzle Element (NOZZ) Primitive Element
Description: NOZZles are significant to the Design because they provide the link
between an EQUIPMENT (which owns them) and a Pipe (BRANCH)
which is connected to each one.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Cat r ef Nulref Provides physical description of NOZZLE directly
from Catalogue. If unset, NOZZLE has no geometry.
Hei ght 0mm Controls height of NOZZLE stem (assuming normal
Catalogue conventions are followed). See
Fi gur e 5- 1.
Cr ef Nulref (Connection Reference) Usually set automatically
when a BRANCH is connected to a NOZZLE. Stores
name of connected BRANCH. If unset, NOZZLE is
not connected to anything. (Noclaim)
Temp -100000 Can hold relevant temperature rating.
Pr essur e 0 Can hold relevant pressure rating.
Dut y unset Text describing type of fluid handled.
Version 11.6
I spec Nulref (Insulation Spec) Does not directly control
insulation, but may be used to indicate insulation
requirements.
It must refer to an existing Specification. (Noclaim)
Angl e 90 These allow the Nozzle definition in the Catalogue
to include
Radi us 0mm Parameterised angles and dimensions which may
then be set
Despar am unset from the design attributes.

Z
X
Y
P0
P1
P2

Figure 5-1 The NOZZle Element
Legal Owners: EQUI, SUBE
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.2.2 BOX Element (BOX) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Level 0 10
Xl engt h 0mm
Yl engt h 0mm
Zl engt h 0mm

Figure 5-2 The BOX Element
Legal Owners: EQUI, STRU, SUBS, PTRA, SUBE, PJ OI, SJ OI, FITT
Legal Members: NBOX, NCYL, NCON, NPYR, NSLC, NCTO, NSNO, NRTO, NDIS,
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.3 Cylinder Element (CYLI) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Level 0 10
DIAM
HEIGHT
P1
P0
Z
Y
X
P2

Figure 5-3 The CYLInder Element
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.4 CONE Element Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
X
Y
Z
P0
P2
P1
DTOP
DBOTTOM
HEIGHT

Figure 5-4 The CONE Element
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.5 Snout Element (SNOU) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
The origin of the Snout is at the mid-point of the line joining the centres of
the top and bottom surfaces and the Z-axis is normal to the top and bottom
surfaces.
X
Y
Z
P0
P2
P1
DTOP
DBOTTOM
YOFF
XOFF
HEIGHT

Figure 5-5 The SNOUT Element
Legal Owners: EQUI, STRU, SUBS, PTRA,SUBE, PJ OI, SJ OI, FITT
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.6 DISH Element Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Di amet er 0mm Diameter of base
Hei ght 0mm Maximum height of dished surface above base
Radi us 0mm If radius is zero, dish is drawn as section of sphere.
If radius is greater than zero, dish is defined as half
of an ellipsoid:

The origin of the Dish is at the centre of the base, and the Z-axis lies along
the normal to the base.

Figure 5-6 The DISH Element

NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.7 Circular Torus Element (CTOR) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Obst r uct 2
Owner /name
Level 0 10
The origin of the Circular Torus is at the centre of the circular arcs of radii
RINSI and ROUTS, and is defined in the X-Y plane.

Figure 5-7 The CTOR Element
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6

5.2.8 Rectangular Torus Element (RTOR) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Obst r uct 2
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Hei ght 0mm Height of rectangular section
The origin of the Rectangular Torus is at the centre of the circular arcs of

Figure 5-8 The RTOR Element

NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.9 Pyramid Element (PYRA) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Obst r uct 2
Owner /name
Level 0 10
The origin of the Pyramid is at the mid-point of the line joining the mid-
points of the top and bottom surfaces, and the Z-axis is normal to the top
and bottom faces.
P1
P2
YBOTTOM
XBOTTOM
XTOP
YTOP
X
Y
Z
P0
YOFF
XOFF
HEIGHT

Figure 5-9 The PYRA Element
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.10 Slope-Bottom Cylinder Element (SLCY) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Hei ght 0mm Height along axis, between P1 and P2
The origin of the Slope-bottom Cylinder is at the mid-point of the axis (mid-
way between P1 and P2) and the default orientation is with the axis on the
Z-axis.
HEIGHT
XBSH
XTSH
YTSH
YBSH
DIAM
P2 P2
SOUTH ELEV. WEST ELEV.
P0
Z
Y
X
P0
Z
P1 P1

Figure 5-10 The SLCY Element
NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.11 Extrusion Element (EXTRU) Primitive Element
Description: The EXTRUSION can be used to represent any volume of uniform
cross-section. It is defined by sweeping a profile representing the
extrusions shape (LOOP) through a given distance (equivalent to the
extrusion thickness).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Hei ght 0 Distance through which LOOP is extruded in Z
direction to form Extrusion (i.e. extrusion
thickness).
=Loop (LOOP)
=Vertex (VERT)
Height
Origin of
EXTRU
Z axis of EXTRU
of EXTRU

Figure 5-11 Defining an EXTRUsion
Legal Owners: EQUI, SUBE, PJ OI, SJ OI, FITT (see also section 17.3.1)
Legal Members: LOOP, NBOX, NCYL, NCON, NPYR, NSLC, NCTO, NSNO, NRTO,
NDIS, NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.12 Solid of Revolution (REVO) Primitive Element
Description: The Solid of Revolution represents any shape which can be
generated by sweeping a constant cross-section profile through an
angle about an axis. The profile is represented by a LOOP, in the
same way as for an Extrusion, but in this case the profile is swept
about an axis rather than along a linear path. The swept angle must
be in the range -360 to +360 degrees, 360 degrees giving a solid
which is axially symmetrical.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Angl e 0.0 Subtended angle through which the 2D loop is
swept around the X axis to create the 3D solid.
=Loop vertex
Y
X
Z
Angle
Origin

Figure 5-12 Defining a Solid of REVOlution
Legal Owners: EQUI, SUBE, STRU, SUBS, PTRA, TMPL
Legal Members: LOOP, NBOX, NCYL, NCON, NPYR, NSLC, NCTO, NSNO, NRTO,
NDIS, NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Version 11.6
5.2.13 Loop Element (LOOP) Primitive Element
Description: The LOOP represents a 2D profile which defines the shape of an
Extrusion or Solid of Revolution. It is defined as a set of edges
linking adjacent points represented by Vertex (VERT) elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: EXTRU, NXTR, REVO, NREV
Legal Members: VERT
5.2.14 Vertex Element (VERT) Primitive Element
Description: A VERT element defines each vertex of a Loop.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Fr adi us 0 Fillet radius of Loop at vertex position. +ve radius
curves away from vertex; -ve radius curves towards
vertex; zero radius gives point only.
Legal Owners: LOOP
Version 11.6
5.2.15 Polyhedron Element (POHE) Primitive Element
Description: This free-form element can be built into any shape by assembling a
number of member POLYGON (POGO) elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Polyhedra must be constructed so that they have no re-entrant corners. If a
polyhedron contains a re-entrant corner, it must be split into two or more
legal polyhedra.
BAD
GOOD
7 polygons, but re-
entrant corner -
not allowed
4 polygons, no re-
entrant corners

Figure 5-13 The POHE Element
Legal Owners: EQUI, STRU, SUBS, PTRA, SUBE
Legal Members: POGO
Version 11.6
Note: The POHE element does not represent a 'solid' 3D entity: it simply
defines a set of face planes (the POGOs) which might (or might not)
enclose a 3D volume. For a more versatile primitive, see the Solid
Polyhedron (POLYHE) element.
5.2.16 Polygon Element (POGO) Primitive Element
Description: This element can belong to a Polyhedron (or Ground Model) and is
the definition of a face of the owning volume. The face is defined by
positioning member points which define its boundary.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
The sequence of points in the Member List must correspond to the
anticlockwise sequence of points when the external face of the polygon is
viewed.
If an IPOI (invisible point) is included as a Member of the POGO, the side
formed by the IPOI and the preceding point will be invisible.
POIN
POIN
POIN
POIN
IPOI

Figure 5-14 The POGO Element
Legal Owners: POHE, GRDM
Legal Members: POIN, IPOI
Version 11.6
5.2.17 Solid Polyhedron Element (POLYHE) Primitive Element
Description: This versatile element represents a 3D polyhedral volume in terms of
sets of points which define the vertices, and hence the edges, of the
planar faces (POLFACs) enclosing the volume.
Each POLFAC is defined by one or more planar Polyhedron Loops
(POLOOP). Each POLOOP is defined by a sequence of vertex
positions which are identified by means of a Loop Points element
(LOOPTS). The LOOPTS comprises references to sets of Point (POIN)
elements held by administrative Polyhedron Point List (POLPTL)
elements. Any POIN which lies on a common edge between two faces
will be referenced more than once (one reference from the LOOPTS of
each POLOOP which shares that POIN).

POLFAC
POLOOP
POIN POIN POIN
References to points
defining loop
LOOPTS
POLPTL
POLYHE

The intended use of this element is as a means of importing 3D-
shape data into DESIGN from external (non-PDMS) sources, rather
than for creating polyhedra directly within DESIGN. Such data
would normally be read into DESIGN via a macro file generated
elsewhere. For this reason, there is no mechanism for creating Solid
Polyhedra or their related elements from the DESIGN
applicationware.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Spamap unset Pointer to spatial map (Noclaim)
Version 11.6
Legal Owners: EQUI, STRU, SUBS, PTRA, SUBE, TMPL
Legal Members: POLPTL, POLFAC, NBOX, NCYL, NCON, NPOLYH, NPYR, NSLC,
NCTO, NSNO, NRTO, NDIS, NXTR, NREV, NRUL
Example: The following macro will create a solid tetrahedron:
NEWPOLYHE / TETRAHEDRON
NEWPOLPTL
NEWPOI N
POS E 0 N 0 U 0
NEWPOI N
POS E 1000 N 0 U 0
NEWPOI N
POS E 500 N 600 U 0
NEWPOI N
POS E 500 N 300 U 600
NEWPOLFAC
NEWPOLOOP
NEWLOOPTS
VXREFS NUM 1 POI N 1 OF POLPTL 1 OF / TETRAHEDRON
I NVI TRUE FALSE TRUE
NEWPOLFAC
NEWPOLOOP
NEWLOOPTS
NEWPOLFAC
NEWPOLOOP
NEWLOOPTS
NEWPOLFAC
NEWPOLOOP
NEWLOOPTS
I NVI FALSE FALSE FALSE
Version 11.6
5.2.18 Polyhedron Point List Element (POLPTL) Primitive Element
Description: An administrative element which holds Point (POIN) members
defining the vertices of a Solid Polyhedron (POLYHE) or Negative
Polyhedron (NPOLYH).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: POLYHE, NPOLYH
Legal Members: POIN
5.2.19 Polyhedron Face Element (POLFAC) Primitive Element
Description: An administrative element which holds Polyhedron Loop (POLOOP)
members representing the faces of a Solid Polyhedron (POLYHE) or
Negative Polyhedron (NPOLYH). For an unbroken face, each POLFAC
will normally hold one POLOOP only, but a discontinuous face may
be represented by a POLFAC comprising two or more POLOOPs.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: POLYHE, NPOLYH
Legal Members: POLOOP
Note: Polyhedron Faces (POLFACs), unlike Polygons (POGOs), are not
represented in the spatial map used for clash checking etc.
Version 11.6
5.2.20 Polyhedron Loop Element (POLOOP) Primitive Element
Description: The POLOOP represents a planar profile which defines all or part of
the shape of a Polyhedron Face (POLFAC). It is defined by a set of
edges linking adjacent Point (POIN) elements, the latter being
identified by references held in a Loop Points element (LOOPTS)
owned by the POLOOP.
The order of the vertices (i.e. whether they are sequenced clockwise
or anticlockwise) is significant. The order for a loop representing a
positive polyhedron face is the opposite to that representing a
negative polyhedron face. The LMIRR attribute determines whether
the face points are read from start to end of the list, or in reverse.
Reversing the order changes the loop from a positive outer boundary
to a negative hole boundary, or vice versa. By default, points listed
anticlockwise correspond to a positive boundary.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Lmi r r false Reverse vertex order (clockwise/anticlockwise)
Legal Owners: POLFAC
Legal Members: LOOPTS
Note: The directions clockwise and anticlockwise refer to the sense when
looking from the outside of the face into the polyhedron.
Version 11.6
5.2.21 Loop Points Element (LOOPTS) Primitive Element
Description: A LOOPTS element holds a set of pointers to the individual Point
(POIN) elements which define each vertex of a Polyhedron Loop
(POLOOP). These pointers are stored in the VXREFS attribute of the
LOOPTS. The POINs referenced are themselves stored under a
Polygon Point List (POLPTL) element.
The points referenced by VXREFS must be stored under a POLPTL
under the relevant POLYHE or NPOLYH. To preserve the integrity of
the primitive, points stored elsewhere will not be considered.
A POLOOP can hold multiple LOOPTS elements, each LOOPTS being
limited to a maximum of 500 POINs. The order of points round a
loop is in member list order of each LOOPTS in turn.
The INVIS logical array determines the visibility of edges. The points
referenced by this array correspond to those referenced by the
VXREFS array. If the INVIS pointer is set to False for any point (or,
by default, is unset), the edge between that point and the preceding
point will be visible; if set to True, the edge will be invisible.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
VXREFS unset Vertex cross-reference array (500)
I nvi s unset Vertex invisibility array (logical, 500)
Legal Owners: POLOOP
Legal Members: None
Note: A POIN referenced from a LOOPTS with the INVIS flag set to True
behaves like an IPOIN in a POGO (see page 5-22).
Version 11.6
5.2.22 Drawn Line Element (DRAWI) Primitive Element
Description: DRAWI is an element which may be used to produce a symbol or
shape on a drawing not normally catered for elsewhere in PDMS. If,
for example, it were necessary to show a company name in large
letters painted on the side of a tank, the letters could be built up as
DRAWI elements which would be members of the EQUIP containing
the tank. Commonly used to show the centreline of a beam or
column.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Li ssue false Status flag showing if drawing has been issued or
not.
Wmax 0 Maximum weld number used in ISODRAFT.
Pmax 0 Maximum part number used in ISODRAFT.
Smax 0 Maximum spool number used in ISODRAFT.
J max 0 Maximum joint number used in ISODRAFT.
Revi si on 0 Current revision number used in ISODRAFT.
Spl p unset Spool prefix text used in ISODRAFT.
The Figure 5-15 shows lines and curves drawn between Points (P), Tangent
Points (T) and Invisible Points (I) for Boundaries and Drawings.
Version 11.6

Figure 5-15 The DRAWI Element
Legal Owners: EQUI, STRU, SUBS, PTRA, ZONE, SITE, SUBE.
Legal Members: POIN, TANP, IPOI, TEXT
5.2.23 Point Element (POINT) Primitive Element
Description: This element is positioned to describe a point in a line (when its
owner is a BOUNDARY or DRAWING) or a vertex on a planar shape
(when its owner is a POGON or a POLPTL).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: DRAWI, BOUND, POGO, POLPTL
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.2.24 Invisible Point Element (IPOINT) Primitive Element
Description: This element is positioned to allow a break in a line.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: DRAWI, BOUND, POGO
Legal Members: None
5.2.25 Tangent Point Element (TANPOINT) Primitive Element
Description: This element allows a smooth curve (second order Bezier) to be
drawn between two points in a line.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: DRAWI, BOUND
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3 Holes in Primitive Elements
Holes of any shape can be created in a primitive by creating a negative
primitive owned by the positive primitive within which the hole is to
appear. Any type of positive primitive may own any type of negative
primitive. The negative shapes have position, orientation and dimensions
which govern how they penetrate their owner. Holes can pass either
partially or completely through their owners, but special rules should be
observed when penetrating the surface of a primitive.
Version 11.6
5.3.1 Negative Box Element (NBOX) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Obst r uct 2
Level 0 10
Xl engt h 0mm Dimension parallel to X-axis
Yl engt h 0mm Dimension parallel to Y-axis
Zl engt h 0mm Dimension parallel to Z-axis
These are as for BOX, but note that the Zlength dimension must be the
penetrating dimension for a hole which breaks the surface of its owning
primitive.
OWNING
BOX
ZLEN
25 mm
25 mm
NBOX

Figure 5-16 The NBOX Element
Legal Owners: EQUI, SUBE, STRU, SUBS, PJ OI, SJ OI, FITT, BOX, CYLI, PYRA,
CONE, SLCY, CTOR, RTOR, SNOU, DISH, REVO, POLYHE
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3.2 Negative Cylinder Element (NCYL) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Di amet er 0mm
Obst r uct 2
Level 0 10
Hei ght 0mm This dimension must be the penetrating dimension
for a hole which breaks the surface of its owning
element.

25 mm
25 mm
OWNING
BOX
HEIGHT
NCYLINDER

Figure 5-17 The NCYL Element
Legal Owners: BOX, CYLI, PYRA, CONE, SLCY, CTOR, RTOR, SNOU, DISH, REVO,
POLYHE
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3.3 Negative Cone Element (NCON) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Legal Members: None
5.3.4 Negative Snout Element (NSNO) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
The origin of the NSnout is at the mid-point of the line joining the centres
of the top and bottom surfaces and the Z-axis is normal to the top and
bottom surfaces.
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3.5 Negative Dish Element (NDIS) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Di amet er 0mm Diameter of base.
Hei ght 0mm Maximum height of dished surface above base.
Radi us 0mm If the radius is set to zero, the dish is drawn as a
section of a sphere. If the radius is greater than
zero, the dish is defined as half of an ellipsoid.
The origin of the NDish is at the centre of the base, and the Z-axis lies
along the normal to the base.
Legal Members: None
5.3.6 Negative Circular Torus Element (NCTO) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Obst r uct 2
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Angl e 90 Subtended angle (must not be greater than 180)
The origin of the NCircular Torus is at the centre of the circular arcs of
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3.7 Negative Rectangular Torus Element (NRTO) Primitive
Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Obst r uct 2
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Hei ght 0mm Height of rectangular section
Angl e 90 Subtended angle (must not be greater than 180)
The origin of the NRectangular Torus is at the centre of the circular arcs of
Legal Owners: BOX, CYLI, PYRA, CONE, SLCY, CTOR, RTOR, SNOU, DISH, REVO,
POLYHE
Legal Members: None
5.3.8 Negative Slope-Bottomed Cylinder Element (NSLC)
Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Di amet er 0mm Diameter of cylinder
Hei ght 0mm Height along axis, between P1 and P2
The origin of the NSlope-bottom Cylinder is at the mid-point of the axis
(mid-way between P1 and P2) and the default orientation is with the axis on
the Z-axis.
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3.9 Negative Pyramid Element (NPYR) Primitive Element
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Obst r uct 2
Owner /name
Level 0 10
The origin of the NPyramid is at the mid-point of the line joining the mid-
points of the top and bottom surfaces, and the Z-axis is normal to the top
and bottom faces.
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
5.3.10 Negative Extrusion Element (NXTR) Primitive Element
Description: The NEGATIVE EXTRUSION can be used to represent any negative
volume of uniform cross-section. It is defined by sweeping a profile
representing the negative extrusions shape (LOOP) through a given
distance (equivalent to the extrusion thickness).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Hei ght 0 Distance through which LOOP is extruded in Z
direction to form Negative Extrusion (i.e. negative
extrusion thickness) - see Figure 16-22.

Legal Members: LOOP
=Loop
(LOOP)
=Vertex
(VERT)
Height
of NXTR
Origin
of NXTR
Z axis
of NXTR

Figure 5-18 Defining an NXTR Element
Version 11.6
5.3.11 Negative Solid of Revolution Element (NREV) Primitive
Element
Description: The Negative Solid of Revolution represents any negative shape
which can be generated by sweeping a constant cross-section profile
through an angle about an axis. The profile is represented by a
LOOP, in the same way as for a Negative Extrusion, but in this case
the profile is swept about an axis rather than along a linear path.
The swept angle must be in the range -360 to +360 degrees, 360
degrees giving a volume which is axially symmetrical.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Angl e 0.0 Subtended angle through which the 2D loop is
swept around the X axis to create the 3D shape.
=Loop
vertex
Y
X
Angle
Origin

Figure 5-19 Defining an NREV Element
Legal Members: LOOP
Version 11.6
5.3.12 Loop Element (LOOP) Primitive Element
Description: The LOOP represents a 2D profile which defines the shape of an
Extrusion. It is defined as a set of edges linking adjacent points
represented by Vertex (VERT) elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: EXTRU, NXTR, REVO, NREV
Legal Members: VERT
5.3.13 Vertex Element (VERT) Primitive Element
Description: A VERT element defines each vertex of a Loop.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Fr adi us 0 Fillet radius of Loop at vertex position. +ve radius
curves away from vertex; -ve radius curves towards
vertex; zero radius gives point only.
Legal Owners: LOOP
5.3.14 Negative Polyhedron Element (NPOLYH) Primitive Element
Description: Represents a 3D negative polyhedral volume in terms of sets of
points which define the vertices, and hence the edges, of the planar
faces (POLFACs) enclosing the volume.
Each POLFAC is defined by one or more planar Polyhedron Loops
(POLOOP). Each POLOOP is defined by a sequence of vertex
positions which are identified by means of a Loop Points element
(LOOPTS). The LOOPTS comprises references to sets of Point (POIN)
elements held by administrative Polyhedron Point List (POLPTL)
elements.

Version 11.6

POLFAC
POLOOP
POIN POIN POIN
References to points
defining loop
LOOPTS
POLPTL
NPOLYH
The intended use of this element is as a means of importing 3D-
shape data into DESIGN from external (non-PDMS) sources, rather
than for creating polyhedra directly within DESIGN. Such data
would normally be read into DESIGN via a macro file generated
elsewhere. For this reason, there is no mechanism for creating
Negative Polyhedra or their related elements from the DESIGN
applicationware.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Napp 1
Legal Owners: EQUI, SUBE, STRU, SUBS, SCTN, STWALL, PANE, SCREED,
FLOOR, GWALL, BOX, CYLI, PYRA, CONE, SLCY, CTOR, RTOR,
SNOU, DISH, REVO, POLYHE, EXTR, RULS, TMPL
Legal Members: POLPTL, POLFAC
Note: The Negative Polyhedron (NPOLYH) is identical to the Solid
Polyhedron (POLYHE; see page 5-23) in principle, except that it is
interpreted geometrically as a hole rather than as a solid volume.
See the entries following the Solid Polyhedron for details of its
constituent elements.
Version 11.6
5.4 Elements for Connecting Equipment to Steelwork
5.4.1 Equipment Load Point Element (LOAP) Primitive Element
Description: The Equipment LOAP element provides a link between an Equipment
item and a Steelwork Structural item. The CREF attribute of a LOAP
and the CREF attribute of a Fitting (see Section 17.3.1) may point to
each other to indicate interconnection between them.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Cr ef Nulref Connection reference. Points to a reference which
identifies the Steelwork Fitting to which the
Equipment item owning the LOAP is to be attached.
(Noclaim)
Legal Owners: EQUI, SUBE
Legal Members: None

Version 11.6

6 The Structural Elements
This section describes those elements which allow you to design logically
interconnected steelwork or concrete structures. The elements have been
subdivided into two types: those representing administrative classifications
or tangible components used during the design of the structure; and those
used solely for stress analysis purposes on the assembled interconnected
structure.
Version 11.6
The Structural Elements
6.1 The Structural Design Elements
6.1.1 Structure Element (STRUCTURE) Structural Design Element
Description: The Structure element has already been described in a different
context under the heading Equipment and Civils Design Elements
(see Chapter 5). However, the hierarchy below the Structure element
also allows for member elements which are specifically used for
Structural Steelwork design.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Number 0
Ar ea 0
DUni on 0 DRAFT union (common edge) setting
Legal Owners: ZONE
Legal Members: FRMW, RPLA, RPLG, LCDE, TEXT, CYLI, SLCY, SNOU, BOX, DISH,
CONE, POHE, PYRA, CTOR, RTOR, DRAWI, PVOL, SUBS, NBOX,
NCYL, NSLC, NSNO, NDIS, NCON, NPYR, NCTO, NRTO, EXTR,
NXTR, REVO, RULS, NRUL, PANE, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS,
LNKS
Version 11.6
6.1.2 Framework Element (FRMW) Structural Design Element
Description: The FRMW element provides a convenient administrative element for
structural design modelling. A number of the attributes set at FRMW
level will cascade down through the design hierarchy as member
elements are created during the steelwork design process.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
The following attributes have functional significance at FRMW level:
St spec Nulref Structural Specification. Used to allocate the
correct functional specification to selected
components.
Mat r ef Nulref Material Reference.
Gr ade 0 Material Grade.
I spec Nulref Insulation Specification.
Fi r esi st 0 Fire Resistance.
Pt spec unset Paint Specification (text).
I nsched unset Inspection Schedule (text).
DUni on 0 DRAFT union (common edge) setting.
Legal Owners: STRU
Legal Members: SBFR, SCTN, PNOD, PANE, TEXT, PALJ , TMPL, DPSE, DDSE,
PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
6.1.3 Subframework Element (SBFR) Structural Design Element
Description: The SBFR element allows you to further subdivide a FRMW into
more manageable administrative portions for structural design
modelling. As for FRMW, some attribute settings will cascade down
to member elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
The following attributes have functional significance at SBFR level:
St speci f i c Nulref Structural Specification. Used to allocate
the correct functional specification to selected
components.
Pt spec unset Paint Specification (text).
DUni on 0 DRAFT union (common edge) setting.
Legal Owners: FRMW
Legal Members: SCTN, PNOD, PANE, TEXT, PALJ , TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
6.1.4 Primary Node Element (PNODE) Structural Design Element
Description: The PNODE is a fundamental analytical point of connection
between Sections in an interconnected steelwork structure. Its
position is used to define the placing of Sections within the design
model and as a reference point for stress analytical calculations on
the interconnected structure. Its position is defined relative to the
coordinate system of the parent Structure (cf. the Secondary Node
element, whose position is defined relative to an owning Section).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Number 0
Nposi t i on E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Node Position.
Fi xt y Free Fixity. Text defining the degrees of freedom of
movement under the influence of applied forces or
moments (for stress analysis purposes).
GTSTRUDL, for example, recognise two settings:
Free or Support.
Legal Owners: FRMW, SBFR
Legal Members: PJ OI, RELE, NOLO, NODI, PCOJ , DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
6.1.5 Primary Joint Element (PJOINT) Structural Design Element
Description: The PJOINT is used to make a logical connection between a Sections
start or end and a Primary Node. Its position is defined relative to
that of a PNOD (cf. SJOINT element). It allows you to model,
indirectly, physical connections between Sections.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Del posi t i on E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Delta position. Defines position of Joint with
respect to that of owning PNOD (i.e. Joint-to-
Node offset).
Opdi r ect i on U Origin Plane direction. Partly defines orientation
of Joint (depends on definition of Joint in
Catalogue).
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Joints Origin
Plane direction. Partly defines orientation of Joint
(depends on definition of Joint in Catalogue).
Cut back 0mm Specifies length by which a Section attached to
the Joint should be reduced or extended to allow
for fitting geometry.
Cut pl ane U Cutting Plane Direction. Defines direction of
plane which forms cut end of a Section attached
to the Joint.
Cr ef Nulref Connection reference. Points to an attached
Section. (Noclaim)
J l i ne unset Joining Line. Defines position of Joint with
respect to the p-lines of an attached Section.
J Fr ee false Defines Joint dominance.
Fi r er esi st 0 Fire Resistance.
I nr ef er ence Nulref Insulation Reference.
Spr ef Nulref Specification Reference. Must refer to existing
Joint component in Catalogue.
Despar am unset Design Parameters. 100-fold real array used to
Version 11.6
convey data between Joint component as defined
in Catalogue and physical Joint as incorporated
into the design.
Legal Owners: PNOD
Legal Members: TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
6.1.6 Structural Section Element (SCTN) Structural Design
Element
Description: A SCTN represents a linear component such as a beam, column,
strut etc. It has a uniform cross-section along its length, defined by
reference to a Catalogue PROFILE element, while its length is a
derived property (not stored in an attribute) which is determined by
the Sections start and end positions.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Sections Z-axis.
Dr nst ar t E Start Direction. Direction of normal to Sections
end-cutting plane at its start (set automatically by
STRING command).
Dr nend E End Direction. Direction of normal to Sections
end-cutting plane at its end (set automatically by
STRING command).
Posst ar t E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Start Position. Coordinates of start of Sections
Neutral Axis (set automatically by STRING
command).
Posend E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
End Position. Coordinates of end of Sections
Neutral Axis (set automatically by STRING
command).
J oi st ar t Nulref Reference to connected Joint (if any) at Sections
start set automatically when start is connected to a
Joint). Noclaim)
J oi end Nulref Reference to connected Joint (if any) at Sections
end set automatically when end is connected to a
Version 11.6
Joint). (Noclaim)
J l i ne 0 Joining Line. Defines p-line on which origins of
connected Joints are to be positioned.
J ust Pl i ne unset Justification pline. Identifies pline to be used as
datum for aligning SCTN with another element.
MemLi ne unset Member line. Identifies pline to be used to
represent SCTN for drawing, dimensioning, etc.
Ct yst ar t 0 Start Connection Type. Defines type of Joint
connection (Joints CTYA) to which Sections start
is connected.
Ct yend 0 End Connection Type. Defines type of Joint
connection (Joints CTYA) to which Sections end is
connected.
Sr el ease Start Release. Defines how Sections start may
move under effect of applied forces and moments.
Er el ease End Release. Defines how Sections end may move
under effect of applied forces and moments.
I nr ef Nulref Insulation Reference.
Spr ef Nulref Specification Reference. Defines cross-sectional
geometry of Section. Must refer to existing Profile in
Catalogue.
Ant ype unset Analysis Type. For stress analysis purposes only.
store additional data related to Section; e.g.,
positions of ancillary items (like web stiffeners) or
additional Joint dimensions.
Legal Members: SNOD, FITT, SPLO, SDLO, CMFI, SELJ , NBOX, NCYL, NCON, NPYR,
NSLC, NCTO, NSNO, NRTO, NDIS, NXTR, NREV, NRUL, TMPL,
DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
6.1.7 Generic Section Element (GENSEC) Structural Design
Element
Description: A GENSEC can represent any component whose geometry is defined
by sweeping a 2D profile along a linear or curved path (its SPINE
element). It has a uniform cross-section along its length, defined by
reference to a Catalogue Profile element. In its simplest form, where
the Spine is defined as a line between two fixed points, the GENSEC
can be used as an alternative to the SCTN element. In its more
general form, where the Spine consists of a sequence of straight
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and/or curved segments, it can represent curved beams, curved
walls, etc.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Orientation of profile about direction
of Spine, measured clockwise from YDIR of Spine.
Lmi r r or false Mirror flag. If true, mirrors profile geometry about
Y axis (equivalent to flipping a linear section).
J oi st ar t Nulref Reference to connected Fixing or Joint at start.
(Noclaim)
J oi end Nulref Reference to connected Fixing or Joint at end
J l nst ar t unset Start Joint pline. Aligns attached joint at start.
(Noclaim)
J l nend unset End Joint line. Aligns attached joint at end.
J usLi ne unset Justification pline. Identifies pline to be used as
datum for aligning GENSEC.
MemLi ne unset Member line. Identifies pline to be used to
represent GENSEC for drawing, dimensioning,
etc.
Ct yst ar t unset Start Connection Type. Defines type of Joint
connection (Joints CTYA) to which start is
connected.
Ct yend unset End Connection Type. Defines type of Joint
connection (Joints CTYA) to which end is
connected.
Sr el ease Start Release. For stress analysis purposes only.
Er el ease End Release. For stress analysis purposes only.
Spr ef Nulref Specification Reference. Defines cross-sectional
geometry of GENSEC. Must refer to existing
Profile in Catalogue.
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Ant ype unset Analysis Type. For stress analysis purposes only.
store additional data related to GENSEC; e.g.
positions of ancillary items.
Legal Owners: FRMW, SBFR, WALL, TMPL
Legal Members: SPINE, J LDATU, DDSE, DPSE, LNKS, PORS, TMPL
= SPINE
= POINSP
Start POINSP
End POINSP
PROFILE
CURVE
CURVE

Figure 6-1 Defining a GENSEC
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6.1.8 Spine Element (SPINE) Structural Design Element
Description: A SPINE defines the path through which a cross-sectional Profile
must be swept to generate a GENSEC. The route of the Spine is
defined by a sequence of Spine Points (POINSP): one at the start, one
at the end, and one at each change of direction. Each segment
linking adjacent Spine Points can be either a straight line or an arc
of a circle: the latter is achieved by the insertion of a CURVE element
(see section 6.1.10).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Ydi r U Local Y axis direction. Defines orientation of
cross-section profile at start of owning GENSEC.
Dr nst ar t Start Direction. Direction of normal to end-cutting
plane at first Spine Point.
Dr nend End Direction. Direction of normal to end-cutting
plane at last Spine Point.
Legal Owners: GENSEC
Legal Members: POINSP, CURVE
6.1.9 Spine Point Element (POINSP) Structural Design Element
Description: A POINSP element defines the start and end of a Spine path, and any
location along the path at which there is a change of direction.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: SPINE
Legal Members: None
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6.1.10 Curve Element (CURVE) Structural Design Element
Description: A CURVE element defines a segment of a Spine path. It defines the
geometry of the Spine between the POINSPs either side of it in the
members list.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Cur Typ unset Curve Type: LINE, RADI, THRU, BULG, FILL,
CENT.
Defines a critical position for the Curve, depending
on the Curve Type setting.
Radi us 0 mm Radius value (for types RADI, FILL, CENT).
Radset f l ag true If True, Radius is fixed; If False, limiting radius
determined by positions of adjacent Spline Points.
Bul ge 0 Bulge factor (for type BULG only).
Cpos E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Conditioning Point. Selects, for example, plane of
Curve or one from set of possible Curves (for types
RADI, BULG, CENT).
Zdi r U
Legal Owners: SPINE
Legal Members: None
6.1.11 Justification Line Datum Element (JLDATUM)
Structural Design Element
Description: Defines the frame of reference for its member PLDATUM elements
based on the pline system of its owning GENSEC. (Replaces the
function of the SNODE used by SCTNs.)
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10 Drawing level to control displayed symbol.
Number 0
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TPRef Nulref Reference to a POINSP of owning GENSEC. Sets
start position from which interpolated points are
derived.
HPRef Nulref Reference to a POINSP of owning GENSEC. Sets
end position from which interpolated points are
derived.
Zdi st 0mm Distance along JUSL or NA pline from PKDIS,
measured in direction from TPREF to HPREF.
Pkdi st 0 Proportional position between TPREF and HPREF.
Legal Owners: GENSEC
Legal Members: PLDATUM
6.1.12 Pline Datum Element (PLDATUM) Structural Design Element
Description: Defines the frame of reference for its members based on the
nominated pline (POSL) system of its owning JLDATUM. Used to
position Fixings, Joints or Fittings along a GENSEC.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10 Drawing level to control displayed symbol.
Number 0
Posl i ne unset Positioning Line. Pline of GENSEC along which
Zdistance is measured to obtain origin for frame of
reference.
Ydi r ect i on U Defines direction of Y axis relative to axial system
of JLDATUM.
Legal Owners: J LDATUM
Legal Members: FIXING
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6.1.13 Secondary Node Element (SNODE) Structural Design
Element
Description: The SNODE is a fundamental analytical point of connection
between Sections in an interconnected steelwork structure. Its
position is used to define the placing of Sections within the design
model and as a reference point for stress analytical calculations on
the interconnected structure. Its position is defined relative to an
owning Section (cf. the Primary Node element, whose position is
defined relative to the coordinate system of the parent Structure).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Number 0
Zdi st ance 0mm Node position defined in terms of distance along
Z-axis of its owning Section.
Fi xt y Free Fixity. Text defining degrees of freedom of
movement under influence of applied forces or
moments (for stress analysis purposes).
GTSTRUDL, for example, recognises two settings:
Free or Support.
Legal Owners: SCTN
Legal Members: SJ OI, RELE, NOLO, NODI, SCOJ , DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
6.1.14 Secondary Joint Element (SJOINT) Structural Design
Element
Description: The SJOINT element is used to make a logical connection between
two Sections in an interconnected steelwork structure. Its position is
defined relative to that of a SNOD (cf. PJOINT element).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
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Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Delta position. Defines position of Joint with respect
to that of owning SNOD (i.e. Joint-to-Node offset).
Posl i ne 0 Positioning Line. Defines position of Joints origin
with respect to Sections p-lines. Derived from
Catalogue Joint; usually set to NA (Neutral Axis).
Cut back 0mm Specifies length by which a Section attached to the
Joint should be reduced or extended to allow for
fitting geometry.
Cut pl ane U Cutting Plane Direction. Defines direction of plane
which forms cut end of a Section attached to the
Joint.
Section.
(Noclaim)
J l i ne 0 Joining Line. Defines position of Joint with respect
to p-lines of an attached Section.
Spr ef Nulref Specification Reference. Must refer to existing Joint
component in Catalogue.
convey data between Joint component as defined in
Catalogue and physical Joint as incorporated into
the design.
J Fr ee unset Defines Joint dominance.
Legal Owners: SNOD
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6.1.15 Primary Compound Joint Element (PCOJ) Structural Design
Element
Description: The Primary Compound Joint is used where two or more attached
sections are connected at a common Primary Node (representing, for
example, a gusset plate). It owns a separate SubJoint for each
connection.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Delta position. Defines position of Joint with
respect
to that of owning PNOD (i.e. Joint-to-Node offset).
Opdi r ect i on U Origin Plane direction. Partly defines orientation
of Joint (depends on definition of Joint in
Catalogue).
Plane
direction. Partly defines orientation of Joint
Joint component in Catalogue.
convey data between Joint component as defined
in Catalogue and physical Joint as incorporated
into the design.
Legal Owners: PNOD
Legal Members: SUBJ , TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
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6.1.16 Secondary Compound Joint Element (SCOJ)
Structural Design Element
Description: The Secondary Compound Joint is used where two or more attached
sections are connected at a common Secondary Node (representing,
for example, a gusset plate). It owns a separate SubJoint for each
connection.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Delta position. Defines position of Joint with respect
to that of owning SNOD (i.e. Joint-to-Node offset).
Posl i ne 0 Positioning Line. Defines position of Joints origin
Catalogue Joint; usually set to NA (Neutral Axis).
I nr ef er ence Nulref Insulation Reference.
convey Catalogue and physical Joint as
incorporated into the design.
Legal Owners: SNOD
Legal Members: SUBJ , TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
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6.1.17 SubJoint Element (SUBJ) Structural Design Element
Description: The SUBJ is used to make a logical connection as part of a Primary
or Secondary Compound Joint.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Delta position. Defines offset of SubJoint with
respect
to position of owning Compound Joint.
Ar r i ve 0 P-point of owning Compound Joint at which origin
of SUBJ is positioned.
Zdi r ect i on U Orientation of Z axis.
Cut back 0mm Specifies length by which a Section attached to the
Joint should be reduced or extended to allow for
fitting geometry.
which forms cut end of a Section attached to the
Joint.
Section. (Noclaim)
J l i ne unset Joining Line. Defines position of Joint with respect
to the p-lines of an attached Section.
Despar am unset Desi gn Par amet er s. 100- f ol d r eal ar r ay used t o
Convey dat a bet ween J oi nt component as def i ned
i n Cat al ogue and physi cal J oi nt as
i ncor por at ed i nt o t he desi gn.
J Fr ee unset Defines Joint dominance.
Version 11.6
Legal Owners: PCOJ , SCOJ
6.1.18 Fitting Element (FITT) Structural Design Element
Description: A FITT can be used to represent any item which is attached to the
Structure but which does not form an integral part of it. It may be
used to indicate such things as the presence of a connected implied
load, such as a pipe hanger attachment, or an ancillary item such as
a web stiffener or a flange plate.
A FITT is positioned along the Z axis of its owning Section, in the
same way as a Secondary Node.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Zdi st ance 0mm Fitting position defined in terms of distance along
Z-axis of its owning Section.
Delta position. Defines offset of Fitting with respect
to position of Node.
Posl i ne 0 Positioning Line. Defines position of Fittings origin
Catalogue Fitting; usually set to NA (Neutral Axis).
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Fittings Origin
Plane direction. Partly defines orientation of Fitting
(depends on definition of Fitting in Catalogue).
identifies a connected Hanger, an Equipment Load
Point, etc. (Noclaim)
Fitting component in Catalogue.
convey data between Fitting component as defined
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in Catalogue and physical Fitting as incorporated
into the design.
Legal Owners: SCTN
Legal Members: RELE, NOLO, NODI, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
6.1.19 Compound Fitting Element (CMFI) Structural Design
Element
Description: A CMFI can be used to represent a penetration at which one or more
elements (Pipes or Sections) pass through a hole in a Section. The
position of each individual penetrating item is represented by a
Subfitting (SBFI) element owned by the CMFI; the CMFI is primarily
an administrative element used to position a group of SBFI.
A CMFI is positioned along the Z axis of its owning Section, in the
same way as a Secondary Node.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Zdi st ance 0mm Compound Fitting position defined in terms of
distance along Z-axis of its owning Section.
Delta position. Defines offset of Compound Fitting
with respect to position derived from ZDIS and
POSL
Posl i ne unset Positioning Line. Defines Section p-line along which
origin of Compound Fitting is positioned. Derived
from Catalogue Fitting; usually set to NA (Neutral
Axis).
Plane direction (Z axis). Partly defines orientation of
Fitting (depends on definition of Fitting in
Catalogue).
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Despar am unset Design Parameters. 100-fold real array, used to
into the design.
Legal Owners: SCTN
Legal Members: SBFI, RELE, NODI, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS, NOLO
6.1.20 Subfitting Element (SBFI) Structural Design Element
Description: A SBFI can represent a single penetration at which a Pipe or Section
passes through a hole in a Panel or Section. Multiple penetrations
are represented by a group of SBFIs (one for each penetrating item)
owned by a common Compound Fitting (CMFI) or Compound Panel
Fitting (CMPF) element.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Delta position. Defines offset of Subfitting with
respect to owning CMFI or CMPF.
Plane direction (Z axis). Partly defines orientation of
Fitting (depends on definition of Fitting in
Catalogue).
Ar r i ve 0 P-point of owning Compound Fitting at which origin
of SBFI is positioned.
Zdi r ect i on U Orientation of Z axis.
identifies a connected Hanger, an Equipment Load
Point, etc. (Noclaim)
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into the design.
Legal Owners: CMFI, CMPF
6.1.21 Generic Fixing Element (FIXING) Structural Design Element
Description: A FIXING can represent any fitting or joint owned (indirectly) by a
GENSEC. It serves a similar function to elements such as FITT,
CMFI, SBFI, PCOJ, SCOJ, but in a more generalised way.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
identifies a connected Hanger etc. (when
representing a fitting) or attached section (when
representing a joint). (Noclaim)
Cr f a unset Connection reference array.
Fitting or Joint component in Catalogue.
convey data between Fixing component as defined
in Catalogue and physical Fixing as incorporated
into the design
Cut back 0mm Specifies length by which Section attached to
Fixing should be reduced or extended to allow for
fixing geometry.
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which forms cut end of Section attached at the
Fixing.
J Fr ee false Defines joint dominance.
J l i ne unset Joining Line. Defines position of Fixing, used as a
Joint, with respect to plines of attached Section.
Legal Owners: PLDATUM, FIXI, PNOD
Legal Members: FIXING, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
6.1.22 Routing Plane Group (RPLG) Structural Design Element
Description: The RPLG is a grouping element whose members may be Steelwork
RPLANEs (see next entry), as opposed to the Piping RPLANEs
described in Chapter 7.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Legal Owners: STRU
Legal Members: RPLA
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6.1.23 Routing Plane Element (RPLANE) Structural Design Element
Description: The RPLANE is a planar element that may be used as a construction
guide (e.g. for representing setting-out or grid lines) when defining
the positions of other steelwork elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 1
Xl engt h 0mm
Yl engt h 0mm
Legal Owners: RPLG, STRU (in the current context)
Legal Members: None
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6.1.24 Panel Element (PANEL) Structural Design Element
Description: The PANEL element is used to represent sheet materials (walls,
floors, decking, etc.) used to clad the structure. It is defined by
sweeping a profile representing the panels shape (the Panel Loop.
PLOOP) through a given distance (equivalent to the panel thickness)
- see Figure 6-2.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Level 0 10
Obst r uct 2
Number 0
Spr ef Nulref Specification reference.
Mat r ef Nulref Material reference.
Gr ade 0 Material grade.
I spec Nulref Insulation specification.
= Panel Loop
(PLOO)
= Panel Vertex
(PAVE)
Origin of
PANE
Z axis of
PANE
Height of
PANE

Figure 6-2 Defining a PANE
Legal Members: PLOO, PALJ , PFIT, COFI, CMPF, NBOX, NCYL, NCON, NPYR, NSLC,
NCTO, NSNO, NRTO, NDIS, NXTR, NREV, NRUL, DPSE, DDSE,
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PORS, LNKS
6.1.25 Panel Loop Element (PLOO) Structural Design Element
Description: The PLOOP represents a 2D profile which defines the shape of a
Panel. It is defined as a set of edges linking adjacent points
represented by Panel Vertex (PAVE) elements.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Hei ght 0 Distance through which PLOO is extruded in Z
direction to form Panel (i.e. panel thickness).
Sj ust unset Surface Justification. Defines justification plane
(top, centre or bottom of panel).
Spr ef Nulref Specification reference
Mat r ef Nulref Material reference
Legal Owners: PANE
Legal Members: PAVE
6.1.26 Panel Vertex Element (PAVE) Structural Design Element
Description: A PAVE element defines each vertex of a Panel Loop or each
connected end of a Panel Linear Joint.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Posi t i on E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm (Note: the Up coordinate is ignored)
Number 0
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Z-axis.
Fr adi us 0 Fillet radius of Panel Loop at vertex position. +ve
radius curves away from vertex; -ve radius curves
towards vertex; zero radius gives point only.
Dat e unset
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Mver t ex Nulref Master vertex
convey data between item as defined in Catalogue
and physical item as incorporated into the design.
Ct yat t ached unset Attached connection type.
Legal Owners: PLOO, PALJ
Legal Members: NOLO, SPLO, NODI, RELE, SDLO
6.1.27 Panel Linear Joint Element (PALJ) Structural Design
Element
Description: A Panel Linear Joint is used to connect two Panels together. The
start and end of the PALJ are defined by two Panel Vertex (PAVE)
points. Logical connections from the attached Panel are made by
setting Master Vertex (MVERT) attributes of two of the Panels PAVEs
to point to the corresponding PAVEs on the linear joint.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Shop false
Bui l t false
Gt ype unset
Number 0
Dat e unset
Sj ust unset Surface justification. Defines justification plane
(top, centre or bottom of panel) for positioning joint.
Legal Owners: SBFR, PANE
Legal Members: PAVE
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6.1.28 Section Linear Joint Element (SELJ) Structural Design
Element
Description: A Section Linear Joint is used to connect a Panel to a Section. The
start and end of the SELJ are defined by two Section Vertex (SEVE)
points. Logical connections from the attached Panel are made by
setting Master Vertex (MVERT) attributes of two of the Panels PAVEs
to point to the corresponding SEVEs on the linear joint.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Shop false
Bui l t false
Gt ype unset
Number 0
Dat e unset
Legal Owners: SBFR, PANE
Legal Members: SEVE
6.1.29 Section Vertex Element (SEVE) Structural Design Element
Description: A SEVE element defines each connected end of a Section Linear
Joint.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Z-axis.
Delta position. Defines offset of SEVE with respect
to owner.
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Fr adi us 0 Fillet radius at vertex position. +ve radius curves
away from vertex; -ve radius curves towards vertex;
zero radius gives point only.
Posl i ne unset Position line (p-line on which vertex is located)
Zdi st ance 0mm Vertex position defined in terms of distance along
Z-axis of Section.
Dat e unset
Mver t ex Nulref Master vertex.
convey data between item as defined in Catalogue
and physical item as incorporated into the design.
Ct yat t ached unset Attached connection type.
Legal Owners: PLOO, PALJ
6.1.30 Panel Fitting Element (PFIT) Structural Design Element
Description: A PANEL FITTING can be used to represent any item which is
attached to a Panel. It may be used to indicate such things as the
presence of a penetrating item or an ancillary item such as an
inspection cover, doorway etc.
A PFIT is positioned relative to the origin of its owning Panel.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Position with respect to the Panels origin.
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Bui l t false
Number 0
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Z axis.
Sj ust unset Surface justification.
identifies a penetrating item etc. (Noclaim)

Version 11.6
convey data between component as defined in
Catalogue and physical Fitting as incorporated into
the design.
Legal Owners: PANE
6.1.31 Panel Cofitting Element (COFI) Structural Design Element
Description: A PANEL COFITTING is used where a fitting or penetration spans the
junction between two or more panels. One panel owns a PFIT, while
the others each own a COFI. Each COFI refers back to the
associated PFIT via its PFRE (PFIT Reference attribute).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Pf r ef er ence Nulref PFIT reference.
Legal Owners: PANE
Legal Members: None
6.1.32 Compound Panel Fitting Element (CMPF) Structural Design
Element
Description: A CMPF can be used to represent a penetration at which one or more
elements (Pipes or Sections) pass through a hole in a Panel. The
position of each individual penetrating item is represented by a
Subfitting (SBFI) element owned by the CMPF; the CMPF is primarily
an administrative element used to position a group of SBFIs.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Position with respect to the Panels origin.
Gt ype unset
Shop false
Version 11.6
Bui l t false
Number 0
Bangl e 0 Beta Angle. Angle of rotation about Z axis.
Sj ust unset Surface justification.
Cr f a unset Connection reference array. (Noclaim)
into the design.
Legal Owners: PANE
Legal Members: SBFI, TMPL, DPSE, DDSE, PORS, LNKS
Version 11.6
6.2 The Stress Analysis Elements
This section defines those elements which are accessed only during stress
analysis of an interconnected steelwork structure. For further details of the
ways in which their settings are extracted for use by separate stress
analysis packages, see the SAINT Reference Manual.
6.2.1 Load Case Descriptor Element (LCDE) Stress Analysis
Element
Description: The LCDE element allows you to supply a detailed description of the
types of loading case that are to be considered as being applied
during stress analysis of the Structure. Any element without a LCDE
will be ignored during stress analysis.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Lcase 0 Load Case Number. A reference number which
identifies a given descriptive text (Stext). The same
number is assigned to the LCAS attribute of any of
the following elements to which the corresponding
description applies.
St ext unset Holds the descriptive text used to describe the Load
Case associated with a given Load Case Number.
Legal Owners: STRU
Legal Members: None
6.2.2 Nodal Release Element (RELEASE) Stress Analysis
Element
Description: The RELE element is used to define how a stressed structure may
flex under the influence of applied forces or moments. Its attribute
settings control both directional and rotational movement at its
owning Node. The Release directions are specified relative to a locally
defined axis system.
Version 11.6
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Nr el ease Nodal Release. Holds a coding integer which
defines the settings (DX, DY, DZ, RX, RY, RZ) for
permitted directional and rotational movement of
the Node under the influence of applied forces and
moments.
Laxes Y is N and Z is U
Local Axes. Orientation of RELE axes relative to
those of Structure within which owning Node is
positioned.
Df l f act or s 0 0 0 Directional Force Load Factors. Represent
translational spring values (restoring forces) in X,
Y, and Z directions.
Rf l f act or s 0 0 0 Rotational Force Load Factors. Represent rotational
spring values (restoring moments) about X,Y,Z
axes.
Legal Owners: PNOD, SNOD
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
6.2.3 Nodal Load Element (NOLO) Stress Analysis Element
Description: The NOLO element is used to apply forces or moments to its owning
Node. The forces and moments are specified relative to a locally
defined axis system (LAXES).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Local Axes. Orientation of NOLO axes relative to
those of Structure within which owning Node is
positioned.
For ce 0 0 0 Defines force to be applied in each of X, Y and Z
directions.
Moment 0 0 0 Defines moment to be applied about each of X, Y
and Z axes.
Legal Members: None
6.2.4 Nodal Displacement Element (NODI) Stress Analysis
Element
Description: The NODI element allows you to apply directional or rotational
displacement results or preconditions to a Structure. The
displacements are specified relative to a locally defined axis system.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Version 11.6
Local Axes. Defines orientation of NODI axes
relative to those of Structure within which owning
Node is positioned.
Di spl ace 0mm 0mm 0mm
Defines linear displacement in each of X, Y and Z
directions.
Rot at i on 0 0 0 Defines rotational displacement about each of X, Y
and Z axes.
Legal Members: None
6.2.5 Section Point Load Element (SPLO) Stress Analysis
Element
Description: The SPLO element allows you to apply forces or moments at given
points on the Neutral Axis of a Section. The forces and moments are
specified relative to the axis system of the parent Structure.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Zdi st ance 0mm Position at which forces or moments are to be
applied, expressed as distance along Neutral Axis
measured from Sections start point.
For ce 0 0 0 Defines force to be applied in each of X, Y and Z
directions.
Moment 0 0 0 Defines moment to be applied about each of X, Y
and
Z axes.
Legal Owners: SCTN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
6.2.6 Section Distributed Load Element (SDLO) Stress Analysis
Element
Description: The SDLO element allows you to apply forces or moments distributed
over a specified length of the Neutral Axis of a Section. Stress
analysis calculations assume a linear interpolation of such a force or
moment over the specified part of the Section. The forces and
moments are specified relative to the axis system of the parent
Structure.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Szdi st 0mm Start position of length over which force or moment
is to be applied, expressed as distance along
Neutral Axis measured from Sections start point.
Ezdi st 0mm End position of length over which force or moment
is to be applied, expressed as distance along
Neutral Axis measured from Sections start point.
Sf or ce 0 0 0 Forces to be applied at SZDI position.
Ef or ce 0 0 0 Forces to be applied at EZDI position.
Smoment 0 0 0 Moments to be applied at SZDI position.
Emoment 0 0 0 Moments to be applied at EZDI position.
Wi dt h 0mm
Legal Owners: SCTN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6

7 The Piping Elements
This section describes those elements of the Design hierarchy that allow
Piping to be modelled. These include all routed items - pipes, ducting, cable
trays and hangers. The elements described here obtain most of their
physical appearance from the PDMS Catalogue, although unique attributes
such as position are held in the Design hierarchy. The basic Components of
a route are organised into a sequence which represents its Head-to-Tail
logic. It is therefore important with these elements to control their location
within the hierarchy carefully (as achieved by the routing commands).
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.1 The Main Piping Elements
7.1.1 Pipe Element (PIPE) Main Piping Element
Description: The PIPE is an administrative owner of one or more two-ended
BRANCHes. Usually a PIPE will include a principle BRANCH routed
between two NOZZLES, with subsidiary BRANCHes for control loops,
bypasses to spare pumps etc. The PIPE contains functional
attributes of three types:
Those which are used directly from the PIPE element (by
modules such as ISODRAFT) as a collective attribute for all the
BRANCHes in the PIPE, e.g. Pipe Spec (PSPE).
Those which have no direct significance at PIPE level, but which
are cascaded downwards to member BRANCHes (or even
Components) where they perform a particular function, e.g.
TEMPERATURE - only used by Branch for insulation, stressing
etc.
Information attributes that can only be reported on, e.g. BUILT.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
The following attributes have functional significance at PIPE level:
Temp -100000 Temperature rating. Used by the detailing interfaces.
Pspec Nulref Pipe Specification. Used by modules such as
ISODRAFT, which places it in the title block of the
isometric.
I spec Nulref Insulation Specification. Used by ISODRAFT.
Tspec Nulref Trace heating Specification. Used by ISODRAFT.
Pt spec unset Paint Specification. Used in ISODRAFT.

Revi si on -1 Revision. Used by ISODRAFT, which automatically
increments value and places it in isometric title
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
block.
The following attributes only have a functional significance below PIPE level
and are cascaded from the PIPE setting:
Lnt p 0 Line Type Identification
Er ect i on 0 Erection Class
Pr essur e 0 Pressure rating
Mat r ef Nulref Material Reference
Fl ur ef Nulref Fluid Reference
Casr ef Nulref Case Reference
The following attributes are used to store information:
Dscode unset Design Code (text)
I nsched unset Inspection Schedule (text)
Dut y unset Fluid flowing through pipe (text)
Ccent r e 0 Cost Centre
Ccl ass 0 Cost Class
Saf cl ass 0 Safety Class
Bor e 0mm Nominal Bore (no physical significance)
The following attributes are used by the Spooling application only:
not.
Wmax 0 Maximum Weld Number used.
Pmax 0 Maximum Part Number used.
Smax 0 Maximum Spool Number used.
J max 0 Maximum Joint Number used.
Dr r f Nulref Drawing reference.
Cdr g unset
Cnumber unset
Car ea unset
Spl p unset Spool prefix text.
Fst at us unset Status string for VPRM integration.
Legal Owners: ZONE
Legal Members: BRAN, TEXT, REST
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.1.2 Branch Element (BRANCH) Main Piping Element
Description: The BRANCH is the key element for all routed piping in the Design
model. It represents a two-ended entity whose route is defined by its
Head, Tail and the sequence of Components (Members) between. A
BRANCH Head or Tail may be connected to NOZZLEs, multi-way
Components such as TEEs, or other BRANCH Heads or Tails.
Alternatively, a Head or Tail may be positioned explicitly in space.
(All the commands which control the Head and Tail attributes are
described in Chapter 11.) The remaining BRANCH attributes are for:
Functional use
Information storage
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false Shop fabricated flag. Cascades to Component level
to indicate shop or site fabrication for ISODRAFT.
The functional attributes of BRANCH are as follows:
Det ai l false Can be set automatically by ISODRAFT to indicate
that Branch has been detailed.
Lst r essed false Logical Stressed. Can be set by stress analysis
programs to show that Branch has been stressed.
Fl owd unset Flow Direction. Used by ISODRAFT.
Hst ube Nulref Head Specification Tube. Describes Tube from
Branch Head to first Component.
Pspec Nulref Pipe Specification. Used by Selection process to
search automatically for correct specification for
Branch and its Components.
Ispec Nulref Insulation Specification. Cascades to Component
level to indicate insulation requirements for each
Component.
Temp -100000 Temperature. Used to determine insulation
thickness for each insulated Component of the
Branch, or for stress analysis.
Lnt p unset Line Type Identifier. Used by ISODRAFT to indicate
if Branch is jacketed.
Er ect i on 0 Erection Class. Indicates wastage grouping for
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
ISODRAFT.
Pr essur e 0 Branch internal pressure rating. Used for stress
analysis.
Mat r ef Nulref Material Reference (SOLID). Used for stress
analysis, to override material specification for
Branch.
Fl ur ef Nulref Fluid Reference (FLUID). Used for stress analysis,
to override fluid specification for Branch.
Casr ef Nulref Case Reference (GROUP). Indicates current
stressing case for stress analysis programs.
Tspec Nulref Trace heating Specification. Overrides PIPE tracing
for ISODRAFT (text).
Pt spec unset Paint Specification. Overrides PIPE paint
specification for ISODRAFT (text).
Spl h unset Holds spool number for Branch Head Tube, for use
by ISODRAFTs Repeatability function.
Hdmt ype unset Head dimension type is a 2-fold word array used to
set dimension format for ISODRAFT reference
dimensioning.
Hdmf ar r ay unset Head dimension array is a 2-fold reference array
used to set names of reference elements for
ISODRAFT reference dimensioning.
Tdmt ype unset Tail dimension type is a 2-fold word array used to
set dimension format for ISODRAFT reference
dimensioning.
Tdmf ar r ay unset Tail dimension array is a 2-fold reference array
used to set names of reference elements for
ISODRAFT reference dimensioning.
The Information attributes of BRANCH are as follows:
Dscode unset Design Code (text).
Dut y unset The fluid flowing through the pipe (text).
Ccent r e 0 Cost Centre.
Ccl ass 0 Cost Class.
Saf cl ass 0 Safety Class.
Weight/Centre of gravity pseudo-attributes:
BRWEI G unset Wei ght of t he Br anch
BRI WEI unset Wei ght of t he Br anch wi t h i nsul at i on
BRWWEI unset Wet Wei ght of t he Br anch
BRWI WE unset Wet Wei ght of t he Br anch wi t h i nsul at i on
BRCOG unset Cent r e of gr avi t y of t he Br anch
BRI COG unset Cent r e of gr avi t y of t he Br anch wi t h
i nsul at i on
BRWCOG unset Wet Cent r e of gr avi t y of t he Br anch
BRWI CO unset Wet Cent r e of gr avi t y of t he Br anch wi t h
i nsul at i on
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
The following data will have to be set up before the above attributes will
work:
The SPCO of every Component, bar ATTAs, will have to have a set
CMPR pointing to a CMPD element or TUBD element in the property
database. TUBD is best used with Bends and Components where the
exact weight is not known.
The SPCO of all the implied tube will also have a set CMPR pointing
to a TUBR
The CMPD elements will need to have CWEI set with CIWE if
insulation is needed. If wet values are required then the ACBO is
used if set, otherwise the leave bore of the Component is used.
For TUBD elements UWEI and UIWE are needed with, optionally,
ACBO
If wet properties are required then the FLUR attribute of the BRAN
and PIPE will have to be set pointing to a FLUI element in the
property database. This will own a TDEN and it in term a SDEN with
a set DENS attribute.
If the CIWE and UIWE values are unset, the insulated weight can
also be calculated from an approximate volume times its density. The
shape of the insulation is assumed to be a hollow cylinder and the
density is derived from the MATR of the insulation SPEC.
The following are known limitations of this implementation. Some of these
may be addressed in future releases depending on the desired accuracy.
The COG of the branch members is assumed to be that of the origin.
The density of the fluid is a constant.
The internal volume is approximate. It is assumed to be a cylinder
for every Component.
Bolts are ignored; their weights will have to be included in specific
Component weights.
These attributes only work for PIPE, BRAN and BRAN members. A
grand total weight for, say, Pipes and Structures will have to be done
by hand.
Also works for SPLDRG, SPOOL and FIELD elements.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
The following attributes are used by the Spooling application only (for use
by ISODRAFT):
not.
Wmax 0 Maximum Weld Number used.
Pmax 0 Maximum Part Number used.
Smax 0 Maximum Spool Number used.
J max 0 Maximum Joint Number used.
Dr r f Nulref Drawing reference.
Spsp unset Spool prefix text.
Mt oh unset Material take-off.
Pt nar r ay unset Part number array.
J num unset Joint number.
J oi p unset Joint prefix.
Head and Tail Attributes (see next section for further details):
Lhead false
Lt ai l false
Hbor e 0mm
Tbor e 0mm
Hconn 0
Tconn 0
Hr ef Nulref (Noclaim)
Tr ef Nulref (Noclaim)
Hpos E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Hdi r E
Tpos E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Tdi r E
Legal Owners: PIPE
Legal Members: ELBO, BEND, TEE, VALV, REDU, FLAN, CROSS, GASK, DUCT,
VENT, FTUB, SHU, COUP, CLOS, OLET, LJ SE, CAP, FBLI, VTWA,
VFWA, TRAP, FILT, WELD, PCOM, UNION, INST, ATTA
The following elements are used for the HVAC design application
only:
TAPE, TRNS, STRT, OFST, PLEN, PLAT, THRE, BRCO, MESH, GRIL,
COWL, DAMP, HFAN, SILE, BATT, AHU, STIF, HACC, HSAD, IDAM,
TP, SPLR, SKIR, FLEX
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.1.3 Branch Head and Tail Main Piping Element
Keywords: HREF TREF HPOS TPOS HDIR TDIR HCON TCON
HSTUBE HSROD
Description: When a BRANCH (or HANGER) is created, a Head and Tail are
immediately available to represent the two ends of that item. The
Head and Tail are special because they are not separate Design
elements but rather attributes of the BRANCH (or HANGER). This is
because they are always required, being the minimum information
necessary to describe a two-ended entity.
If the Head and Tail are set up with no intermediate Components,
the content of the Branch will be one piece of straight Tube (or Rod)
running between them. When the BRANCH (or HANGER) is created,
the Head and Tail have no position, orientation, bore or connection
type. These can be set collectively by connecting to another BRANCH
or a NOZZLE, or individually if positioning the BRANCH in free
space. They can also be referred to collectively as the PH and PT (or
HH and HT) respectively. The Head and Tail attributes of BRANCH
(and HANGER) are as follows:
Href,Tref
The name of the element to which the Head or Tail is connected (e.g.
a Nozzle, a Tee in another Branch, or another Branch Tail).
Hpos,Tpos
The Head or Tail position in Zone axes (PIPE has no POS attribute).
Hdir,Tdir
The Head or Tail position in Zone axes (PIPE has no ORI attribute).
Hcon,Tcon
The connection type of the item to which the Head is connected (e.g.
the flanged face of a Nozzle).
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.1.4 Restraint Element (RESTRAINT) Main Piping Element
Description: The area of the hierarchy owned by the RESTRAINT element is
provided to allow modelling of pipe supports and hangers. The
RESTRAINT is an administrative element which can own HANGER
elements in convenient groupings. It is analogous to the PIPE
element.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Number 0
Ar ea 0
Hspec Nulref Hanger Specification (SPECI). Cascaded to the
HANGER element, which uses it for hanger
selection.
St l Ref Nulref Steel reference; e.g. a pointer to an associated
substructure.
Legal Owners: ZONE, PIPE
Legal Members: HANG, TEXT
7.1.5 Pipe Hanger Element (HANGER) Main Piping Element
Description: The HANGER is a two-ended entity which is routed between a
BRANCH and supporting steelwork. It is analogous in many respects
to the BRANCH element and can own Components routed between a
Head and Tail. The Head or Tail can be connected to a piping
attachment point (ATTA) or positioned specifically, e.g. on a
supporting member. Its attributes can be classified as follows:
Functional and Information attributes for the complete HANGER
(described here).
Head and Tail attributes (already described).
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Number 0
Ar ea 0
The functional and information attributes of a HANGER are as follows:
Lhead false
Lt ai l true
Hpos E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Tpos E 0mm N 0mm U 0mm
Hdi r E
Tdi r E
Hr ef Nulref (Noclaim)
Tr ef Nulref (Noclaim)
Hconn 0
Tconn 0
Hbor e 0mm
Tbor e 0mm
Hspec Nulref Hanger Specification (SPECI). Used by Selection
process to search correct Specification automatically
for HANGER and its Components.
Hsr od Nulref Head Rod Specification. Describes Rod from
HANGER Head to first HANGER Component.
Ht ype unset Hanger Type (information only).
Nl oad 0 Nominal Load (information only).
Legal Owners: RESTR
Legal Members: PCLA, PCLI, PLUG, SHOE, UBOL, POST, TRNN, HELE, HROD,
EYRD, RCDL, TRNB, WASH, CLEV, EYNT, HPIN, HNUT, VSPR,
SWBR, SNUB, SCLA, SLUG, BWLD, BBLT, SOST, STLS, SPAC,
WPAD
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.2 The Hanger Components
7.2.1 Pipe Clamp Element (PCLAMP) Hanger Component
Description: Component for pipe clamps.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Bui l t false
Shop false
Lsr od Nulref Leave Rod specification.
Angl e 90
Ar r i ve 1 P-arrive.
Leave 2 P-leave.
Posf l ag false Shows if element has been positioned.
Or i f l ag false Shows if element has been orientated.
Hei ght 0mm
Nl oad 0 Nominal load. Currently has no special
significance.
Catalogue and physical item as incorporated into
the design.
Legal Owners: HANG
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.2.2 Steel Clamp Element (SCLAMP) Hanger Component
Description: Component for all connections to supporting steelwork.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Bui l t false
Shop false
Ar r i ve 1 P--arrive.
Leave 2 P-leave.
Angl e 90
Hei ght 0mm
significance.
the design.
Legal Owners: HANG
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.2.3 Hanger Element (HELEMENT) Hanger Component
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Gt ype unset
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
Angl e 90
Hei ght 0mm
Radi us 0mm
the design.
significance.
Legal Owners: HANG
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3 Piping Components
7.3.1 Attachment Point Element (ATTA) Piping Component
Description: The ATTACHMENT point has three main applications:
To allow pipe HANGERS to be connected to a point in the
BRANCH
To indicate a special point on the BRANCH which can be
dimensioned, labelled, etc.
To allow forces, moments, etc. to be applied to the BRANCH
during pipe stressing.
The ATTA is created, selected and consistency-checked in the same
way as other Components. However, it is ignored as an in-line fitting
by the CONNECT command and is ignored by the reporting utility
when listing tube lengths.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Spr ef Nulref Specification Reference.
Lst ube Nulref Leave tube specification.
Leave 2 P-leave.
Or i f l ag false Shows if element has been positioned.
Tspec Nulref Trace heating specification.
the design.
Cst r ef Nulref Constraint reference. Points to constraint
(force/stiffness) vectors in Properties Catalogue for
stressing purposes. As far as stress analysis is
concerned, this is the Hanger; no account is taken
of the physical Hanger model.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Cr ef Nulref Connection reference. Bears name of a Hanger that
has been connected to it. As far as ISODRAFT is
concerned, this identifies the Hanger; no account is
taken of the physical Hanger model. (Noclaim)
Local axes. Allows constraint vectors at that point
to be rotated independently of normal orientation.
At t ype 0 Attachment type. Code used by ISODRAFT to
indicate the role of the ATTA as follows:
Setting ATTY to XXXX indicates to ISODRAFT that the ATTA
marks a user-controlled pipe splitting point
Setting ATTY to CCCC indicates to ISODRAFT that the ATTA
represents a general comment
Setting ATTY to CCNN indicates to ISODRAFT that the ATTA
represents a non-dimensional comment
Setting ATTY to FLOW causes ISODRAFT to plot in-line flow
arrows
St ext unset Used by ISODRAFT to generate information note.
Lend false Logical End. Flag used in stressing to indicate
breakpoint of legally stressable network.
Spl n unset Spool number for component, for use by
ISODRAFT.
Spl t unset Spool number for components leave tube, for use
by ISODRAFT.
Spsp unset Spool start/end specification for use by ISODRAFT.
Dmt ype unset Dimension type is a 2-fold word array used to set
dimension format for ISODRAFT reference
dimensioning.
Dmf ar r ay unset Dimension array is a 2-fold reference array used to
set names of reference elements for ISODRAFT
reference dimensioning.
Dpf n unset Detail plot file name for use by ISODRAFT.
Dpgr i d 0 Detail plotfile grid area for use by ISODRAFT.
Mt oc unset Material take-off for Component in ISODRAFT.
Mt ot unset Material take-off for Tube in ISODRAFT.
Mt oRef unset Reference array holding up to 20 additional SPREFs
giving extra detail and material texts for the item on
ISODRAFT material lists.
Mt oxar r ay unset Extra mto part numbers array for ISODRAFT.
Pt no 0 Part number for component in ISODRAFT.
Pt nt 0 Part number for tube in ISODRAFT.
Pt nbar r ay unset Part number array for bolt sets in ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.2 Bend Element (BEND) Piping Component
Description: Used where a bend is made in tubing. As the Implied Tube must be
straight, it is necessary to insert such a Component where any
change of direction occurs. (This is not the same as an ELBO, which
is a separate catalogue component.)
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Cr ef Nulref Connection reference. (Noclaim)
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Lof f l i ne true Logical offline flag.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
dimensioning.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Cmpx unset Component exclusion text for use by ISODRAFT.
J num unset Joint number in ISODRAFT.
J oi p unset Joint prefix in ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.3 Cap Element (CAP) Piping Component
Description: Component for capping a pipe.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
by ISODRAFT.
Pt no unset Part number for component in ISODRAFT.
Pt nt unset Part number for tube in ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.4 Closure Element (CLOS) Piping Component
Description: Component for piping closure.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Hei ght 0mm
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.5 Coupling Element (COUPLING) Piping Component
Description: Component for full or half couplings.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.6 Cross Element (CROSS) Piping Component
Description: Multi-way component for straight cross or reducing cross.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
Lof f l i ne false Logical offline flag.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
dimensioning.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3.7 Duct Element (DUCT) Piping Component
Description: General component for rectangular HVAC ducting straights.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3.8 Elbow Element (ELBOW) Piping Component
Description: Component for elbows and returns.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
dimensioning.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.9 Blind Flange Element (FBLIND) Piping Component
Description: Component for blind flanges
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.10 Filter Element (FILTER) Piping Component
Description: Component for filters.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.11 Flange Element (FLANGE) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of flange
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Hei ght 0mm
Loose false Used by ISODRAFT to indicate where flange is to be
supplied loose. (ISODRAFT will add length of extra
pipe and increase indicated cut length to allow for
field fitting.)
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.12 Fixed Length Tube Element (FTUBE) Piping Component
Description: This component is for stubs or tube of minimum allowed length. It is
easier to specify these as Components from a Specification where the
minimum lengths are stored. However, unlike Implied Tube, the
reporting utility does not currently add these lengths when totalling
Tube for a BRANCH.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
the design.
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.13 Gasket Element (GASKET) Piping Component
Description: Component for gaskets.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.14 Instrument Element (INSTRUMENT) Piping Component
Description: Component for in-line instruments (flow measurement, etc.).
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.15 Lap-Joint Stub-End Element (LJSE) Piping Component
Description: Component for lap-joint (or Van Stone) flanges.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Hei ght 0mm
Loose false Used by ISODRAFT to indicate where flange is to be
supplied loose. (ISODRAFT will add length of extra
pipe and increase indicated cut length to allow for
field fitting.)
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.16 Olet Element (OLET) Piping Component
Description: Component for olets of all types.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angle 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
dimensioning.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.17 General Piping Component Element (PCOMPONENT)
Piping Component
Description: Element for any type of component not covered by the other
classifications.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3.18 Reducer Element (REDUCER) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of reducers, swages, inserts etc.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3.19 Standard Hook-Up Element (SHU) Piping Component
Description: Component for general usage by items not covered by the other
Component types.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.20 Tee Element (TEE) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of tee, lateral, set-on branch, stub-ins, etc.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
dimensioning.
Dmf ar r ay unset Dimension array is a 2-fold reference array used
to set names of reference elements for ISODRAFT
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.21 Trap Element (TRAP) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of separators, strainers, screens and
driplegs.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.22 Union Element (UNION) Piping Component
Description: Component for any class of union, connector or bushing.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
the design.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.23 Valve Element (VALVE) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of two-way valve.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3.24 Vent Element (VENT) Piping Component
Description: Component for vents.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
7.3.25 Four-Way Valve Element (VFWAY) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of four-way valve.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.26 Three-Way Valve Element (VTWAY) Piping Component
Description: Component for all classes of three-way valve.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Orient Y is N and Z is U
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Cr ef unset Connection reference. (Noclaim)
Angl e 90
Radi us 0mm
Hei ght 0mm
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
7.3.27 Weld Element (WELD) Piping Component
Description: Component for itemised welds.
Attributes:
Name /name
Lock false
Owner /name
Bui l t false
Shop false
Leave 2 P-leave.
the design.
Angl e 0
Hei ght 0mm
Al l owance 0mm Field-fit weld allowance for use by ISODRAFT.
ISODRAFT.
by ISODRAFT.
Version 11.6
The Piping Elements
Wl dn 0 Weld number in ISODRAFT.
Wl dp unset Weld prefix in ISODRAFT.
Legal Owners: BRAN
Legal Members: None
Version 11.6

Index
Area Box element, 4-16
Area Circular Torus element, 4-20
Area Cone element, 4-17
Area Cylinder element, 4-18
Area Definition element, 4-15
Area Dish element, 4-24
Area Pyramid element, 4-23
Area Rectangular Torus element, 4-21
Area Set element, 4-14
Area Slope-Bottom Cylinder element, 4-19
Area Snout element, 4-22
Area World element, 4-13
Attachment Point element, 7-14
Attributes
types, 3-2
user<#106>defined, 3-1
Bend element, 7-16
Blind Flange element, 7-30
Boundary element, 4-9
Box element, 5-10
Branch element, 7-4
Cap element, 7-18
Circular Torus element, 5-15
Clamp element
piping, 7-11
steelwork, 7-12
Closure element, 7-20
CMFI element, 6-26
CMPF element, 6-41
Cofitting element, 6-40
Compound Fitting element, 6-26
Compound J oint
primary, 6-20
secondary, 6-21
Compound Panel Fitting element, 6-41
Cone element, 5-12
Coupling element, 7-22
Cross element, 7-24
Curve element, 6-14
Cylinder element, 5-11
Datum Point element, 4-12
Dish element, 5-14
Drawn Line element, 5-32
Duct element, 7-26
Elbow element, 7-28
Equipment element, 5-2
Equipment Load Point element, 5-53
Extrusion element, 5-19
Filter element, 7-32
Fitting element, 6-24
Fixed Length Tube element, 7-36
FIXI element, 6-29
Fixing element, 6-29
Flange element, 7-34
blind, 7-30
Four-way Valve element, 7-61
Framework element, 6-3
Gasket element, 7-38
Generic Fixing element, 6-29
Generic Section element, 6-10
VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual Index- i
Version 11.6
Index
GENSEC element, 6-10
Ground Model element, 4-8
Group element, 4-6
Group World element, 4-5
Hanger element, 7-9, 7-13
Instrument element, 7-40
Invisible Point element, 5-35
J LDATUM element, 6-15
J oints
primary, 6-6
secondary, 6-18
J ustification Line Datum element, 6-15
Lap-J oint Stub-End element, 7-42
Linear J oints
panel, 6-36
section, 6-37
Load Case Descriptor element, 6-43
Load Point element, 5-53
Loop element, 5-21, 5-49
Loop Points element, 5-31
Negative Box element, 5-38
Negative Circular Torus element, 5-43
Negative Cone element, 5-40
Negative Cylinder element, 5-39
Negative Dish element, 5-42
Negative Extrusion element, 5-47
Negative Polyhedron element, 5-51
Negative Pyramid element, 5-46
Negative Rectangular Torus element, 5-44
Negative Slope<#106>bottom Cylinder
element, 5-45
Negative Snout element, 5-41
Negative Solid of Revolution element, 5-48
Nodal Displacement element, 6-46
Nodal Load element, 6-45
Nodal Release element, 6-44
Nodes
primary, 6-5
secondary, 6-17
Nozzle element, 5-8
Olet element, 7-44
Panel Cofitting element, 6-40
Panel element, 6-32
Panel Fitting element, 6-39
Panel Linear J oint element, 6-36
Panel Loop element, 6-34
Panel Vertex element, 6-35
PCOJ element, 6-20
Penalty Volume element, 4-11
Pipe Clamp element, 7-11
Pipe element, 7-2
Pipe Hanger element, 7-9
Pipe Track element, 5-5
Piping Component element
general, 7-46
PLDATUM element, 6-16
Pline Datum element, 6-16
POINSP element, 6-13
Point element, 5-34
Polygon element, 5-25
Polyhedron element, 5-23
Polyhedron Face element, 5-29
Polyhedron Loop element, 5-30
Polyhedron Point List element, 5-28
Primary Compound J oint element, 6-20
Primary J oint element, 6-6
Primary Node element, 6-5
Pyramid element, 5-17
Index-ii VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual
Version 11.6
Index
Rectangular Torus element, 5-16
Reducer element, 7-48
Release element, 6-44
Restraint element, 7-8
Routing Plane element, 4-10, 6-31
Routing Plane Group element, 6-30
SBFI element, 6-28
SCOJ element, 6-21
SCTN element, 6-8
Secondary Compound J oint element, 6-21
Secondary J oint element, 6-18
Secondary Node element, 6-17
Section Distributed Load element, 6-48
Section element, 6-8
Section Linear J oint element, 6-37
Section Point Load element, 6-47
Section Vertex element, 6-38
Site element, 4-3
Slope<#106>bottom Cylinder element, 5-18
Snout element, 5-13
Solid of Revolution element, 5-20
Solid Polyhedron element, 5-26
Spine element, 6-12
Spine Point element, 6-13
Standard Hook-up element, 7-49
Steel Clamp element, 7-12
Structural Section element, 6-8
Structure element
equipment etc., 5-4
steelwork, 6-2
Subequipment element, 5-3
Subfitting element, 6-28
Subframework element, 6-4
Subjoint element, 6-22
Substructure element
equipment etc., 5-6
Tangent Point element, 5-36
Tee element, 7-51
Text element, 4-7
Three-way Valve element, 7-63
Torus element
circular, 5-15
rectangular, 5-16
Trap element, 7-53
Union element, 7-55
User<#106>defined attributes, 3-1
Valve element, 7-57
four<#106>way, 7-61
three<#106>way, 7-63
Vent element, 7-59
Vertex element, 5-22, 5-50
Weld element, 7-65
World element, 4-2
Zone element, 4-4

VANTAGE PDMS DESIGN Reference Manual Index-iii
Version 11.6

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