Piping is modeled using a point-by-point design method. The modeling of pipelines is driven by the piping specification, which limits and sometimes automatically selects piping parts. Within a particular design context or pipeline service, the specification author makes decisions in advance relating to both allowed parts and requirements for the parts that may be used in that service. Limiting the selection of parts through the use of a piping specification helps the designer by eliminating the need to make decisions related to applicability, cost, procurement, and safety of particular parts within particular pipeline services.
Part selection is further driven through the provision of rules regarding the usage of particular types of parts in particular design situations. The piping specification contains a grouping of piping materials classes that define the requirements, characteristics, and behavior of the piping commodities for a specific service. For more information on the piping reference data and piping specifications, see Piping Reference Data or Catalog Help.
Before you start modeling, there are some relationships and concepts that you need to know.