Layer settings in the layout diagram
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The process engineering field requires the creation of both equipment layout diagrams and pipe layout diagrams; the pipe layout diagram must also show pipe supports, etc. The equipment layout diagram needs to include details such as civil engineering elements like beams, columns, stairs, walls, and retaining structures. It also needs to show the equipment itself (towers, heat exchangers, pumps), axes, equipment centerlines, elevations, equipment positioning, positioning of civil engineering beams, axis dimensions, stair dimensions, steel platforms, etc. In addition, there should be annotations for embedded components and descriptions of the equipment’s civil engineering foundation. The pipe layout diagram must list each pipe, its name, length, elevation, and pipe support identifiers. Generally, we draw the equipment layout diagram first and then the pipe layout diagram, but the equipment layout diagram contains so many details, including specifics about the equipment and its connections. How do I draw pipes? :Q It’s really frustrating. Whatever the master says must be written above. It’s possible to set up layers and only display the ones that are needed, but it’s easier said than done. Does that mean each layer has to be configured individually? Do any of you experts have any good tips?
I also want to know that when drawing the layout plan of our courtyard, there is no distinction between different levels at all; everything is drawn on just one level, which I think isn’t very reasonable!
Given this requirement, there should generally be design templates that define the meaning and content of each layer; this makes it much easier to handle difficulties and make modifications. If the original poster doesn’t have one, then make one by themselves; it will be convenient after doing it once.
The original poster is absolutely right; layer-based drawing is popular these days. Pipes, equipment, civil engineering elements – all can be organized in layers, and even the contents inside pipes, such as fluid pipelines or steam pipes, can be separated into different layers. There are many advantages to this approach. I suggest asking in the CAD drawing forum; hehe
Proper drawing involves creating layers first and then drawing on them; it’s important to develop good habits. But if it isn’t set up in advance, it can be changed later. Generally, civil engineering, equipment, piping, instrumentation, annotations, text, and centerlines are each set as a separate layer. Other aspects can be adjusted as needed; CAD drawing allows for quick adjustments, and it’s also possible to convert other layers into standard layers.
Looking at it from a broader perspective first, different specialties are categorized into tiers. For the pipe layout drawings in the piping discipline, the associated architectural drawings can be treated as a separate sheet. So as to better distinguish the elements related to one’s specialty. At a more detailed level, the piping field also involves many aspects that need to be categorized (I’ve seen cases where no such categorization was used, but that is extremely unprofessional and goes against what it means to be an engineer). For example, there are things like centerlines, pipelines, pipe fittings, elevations, equipment, instruments, and so on. I was very fortunate to see a layout plan that could be considered a masterpiece; it truly resembled the perfect work of an artist, fully reflecting the individual’s drawing skills. No wonder an overseas engineer with whom I used to work once told me that an engineer is an artist; we are proud to be engineers!
Haha... thank you all. I will definitely study hard and keep improving day by day. Strive to make yourself proud.
With so many elements to be drawn, it’s of course necessary to use layers – this makes it easier both to draw and to understand the diagram. As there is a lot of content, there will be many layers as well. As for how to set up these layers, generally, you can organize them according to the types of elements in your diagram: 1. Centerline layer 2. Simplified outline layer of equipment 3. Layer for the layout of main pipelines 4. Layer for the layout of auxiliary pipelines 5. Layer for civil engineering elements (beams, columns, stairs, walls, retaining structures) 6. Layer for the foundations on which equipment is installed 7. Layer for control instruments .............. For specific details on how to set up these layers, consult an expert. The more you work with this, the more experience you will gain.
I’ve learned that when I draw, I don’t like to use layers; I find it too troublesome. For now, since the projects are small, I haven’t noticed any advantages to using layers； However, after reading the opinions above, I feel it’s really necessary to use layers; I’ll start developing the habit of using them from now on
Generally, each organization has regulations regarding how to set up layers when drawing and what colors to use for each layer; the absence of such regulations indicates that the organization’s level of management is relatively low. Generally, civil engineering, equipment, piping, instrumentation, annotations, text, and centerlines are each set as a separate layer.
That’s how it is: generally, large design institutes have their own specialized software for piping design, which includes all the parameters you mentioned. These parameters are stored in a vector database. When different departments need different drawings, they print the appropriate drawings as required. No one prints all possible drawings; everything is available in the database. This data is saved as historical records – not in layered form, but as complete sets of parameters and vectors. Sinopec Engineering Company operates in this same way
With so many layers, each one has to be created separately. For a project in CAD, we need to create over 30 layers; creating them isn’t complicated, and they are very convenient to use.
Layering has its advantages, but it’s better to use fewer layers – too many of them can be troublesome! !
Layering has its advantages, but it’s better to use fewer layers – too many of them can be troublesome! !
Create layers first before drawing; it’s important to develop good drawing habits, as it will bring many benefits in the future. If there is no template, define one on your own; you can also refer to HGJ1074-79, the Table of Regulations for Coloring and Labeling Chemical Process Pipes
I’m also worried about this layer; I feel like I often forget to set it up, but actually it’s convenient to do so. It’s important to develop good habits, and professionals should share more of their experience!
Layered drawing is a basic function of CAD. There are many advantages to using layers, and it’s important to develop a habit of working with layered drawings.
Sharpening the knife doesn’t delay chopping wood; by setting up the layers in detail, piping work can be done more easily without any sense of clutter. I create 3D models of factory buildings; there are seventy or eighty layers just for the lights, but each piece of equipment on every floor is represented by only one layer.