AutoCAD Exporting Tips for Developing Autopipe Model

What is the best method for utilizing autocad models to build your autopipe model? From what I can tell, the best you can do is import the node coordinates. Is there a simple way to also export the runs from autocad and import them into autopipe?

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  • Greetings Nicholas, 

    The largest problem is people believe that AutoCAD lines / solids contain information that can be read by other programs.  As of Nov 2021, the best exported file from AutoDESK AutoCAD is a DWG or DXF files. Unfortunately there is a large amount of information missing from both of these files needed by a stress program: piping geometry (Pipe Od, Pipe Wall thick, corroded thickness, mill thickness, SG of contents..), supports (type, bearing direction, sprint rate, etc..), material properties ( cold modulus, cold allowable, weld factors, density, poisson's ratio, etc..),  etc..

    It would be best if AutoDESK supported the industry standard of exporting a PCF file of their model. If AutoDESK exported such a file format then it would take but a few with a few minor tweeks here and there moments to import a fairly large model. Until then, the best would be to import the coordinates and type of component as seen here, and then update information inside of AutoPIPE. 

    Highly recommend that the AutoCAD community gets together to formally request AutoDESK deliver a better exported formatted file than DWG and DXF, suggest PCF.

    Regards,
    Mike Dattilio
    Design Analysis Engineering Group
    Senior Analyst Bentley Systems Inc
    =============================================================================

  • Just came across this recording today: https://www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/class/Connecting-Piping-Design-AutoCAD-Plant-3D-Piping-Fabrication-Through-Spoolgen-2018
    Not sure if it helps the OP in his question, and if it's completely linked to this topic, but I thought it might be of interest. It also further expands to Mike's remark.

    We have been using PCF files as an export method from our AutoDesk'Plant3D models towards AutoPIPE, for years.

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