I have created a couple of pipe examples in AutoPIPE using Flexible joints. One exactly vertical and One exactly horizontal. After exporting the model to a PCF and using the PCF translator on the created PCF file, the model comes in with the pipes offset instead of strait. The message file give the message: "WARNING: MISSING FLEXIBLE JOINT DATA." what parameters are missing that I need to include to get a flex component to come in correctly from the PCF file?
Greetings Kevin,
AutoPIPE's export PCF file is really about sending out geometry and not specific details of individual components as seen in an AutoPIPE model. Perform the following:
1. With AutoPIPE model open, export PCF file.
2. Save the file as "AutoPIPE Batch (*.NTL) with file name Flex.ntl
3. Open the PCF translator and translate the file into a DAT file.
4. Open the model's folder location, open both files with extension *.NTL at the same time in any text editor application.
5. Notice the different information in each file. The Save as NTL file correctly captures all of the Expansion Joint's specifications, where the exported PCF file only captures simple geometry. Thus leaving AutoPIPE translator to use default values for missing data, as indicated by the message you are referring to above.
Recommend to only use Export PCF file to send model geometry to another cad application, and to use save to NTL as a way of round tripping the model.
Regards, Mike Dattilio Design Analysis Engineering Group Senior Analyst Bentley Systems Inc=============================================================================
Upcoming Live Classes: Complete Listing – Filter to AutoPIPE
On-Demand Videos: Complete Listing – Filter to AutoPIPE
Best Practices toward Becoming an AutoPIPE Power User – Watch Here
Spring Hanger Analysis – Watch Here
Maximizing AutoPIPE's Standard and Custom Reporting Capabilities – Watch Here
SIF and Flexibility Calculation ASME B31J – Watch Here
Why Engineers win with AutoPIPE Support Optimizer – Watch Here
Benefits of Non Linear Pipe Stress Analysis – Watch Here
Leverage Your AutoPIPE Model Data to Meet Caesar II Deliverable Requirements – Watch Here
Piping and Structural Interoperability – Watch Here
Pipe Stress Analysis - Flange and Equipment Safety – Watch Here
ASME B31.1 & B31.3 Code Updates 201 – Watch Here
New eBook! - The Secret to Accelerated Pipe Design – Download Here
AutoPIPE Support Optimizer – Learn More
HI Kevin,
Are you trying to import a PCF file that was originally exported by AutoPIPE or was it exported by another program?
Thanks,
Jessica Alegre