What are the main differences between pdmax and AutoCA?
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PDmax is a 3D factory design software developed by Changsha Sike Company, based on AutoCAD, and is primarily used for the design of petrochemical plants and power stations. Its functions are similar to those of PDMS from the British company AVEVA. But since AutoCAD also has the capability for 3D drawing, why not use an upgraded version of AutoCAD for 3D factory design? What are their main differences? AutoCAD is relatively familiar to us, so it will be easier for us to get started learning it.
Since there was no chance to learn CAD 3D or PDMax*. But I have some knowledge of PDMS; it is said that pdmax is a domestically produced version of PDMS. I will briefly discuss the characteristics of PDMS and the differences it has compared to CAD 3D models. PDMS also belongs to the category of typical 3D factory software. Such software is not meant solely for viewing purposes; in addition to having a visual appearance, it must also possess functional capabilities such as the ability to extract individual lines, generate material outputs, and create cross-sectional views. The rendered images produced later serve only as a secondary function. CAD 3D should not possess these inherent functions. So developing CAD directly is still difficult. However, due to the widespread use of CAD, many companies at home and abroad have begun to use it routinely for further development, which has led to the emergence of software such as pdmax
It can be said that AutoCAD’s 3D functionality is purely graphical; it does not include attributes such as pipe grades or material properties, and so on. In contrast, 3D factory design software allows for the creation of 3D models, as well as performing data consistency checks, collision detection, automatically generating cross-sections, extracting line diagrams, and performing automatic material statistics – functions that cannot be achieved using only AutoCAD. The reason why AutoCAD is used as a graphical platform is likely because we are familiar with it and can get started using it quickly
I used PDMax a few months ago; it has some of the functions of PDMS, such as generating floor plans and material information, but it’s not complete. These functions are not available in standard CAD software. PDMax can be considered a type of customized development tool. I guess its functions are becoming more advanced these days. This post was last edited by fiyone on 2009-3-31 at 23:52
Thank you for your answer. I hope the domestic PDmax can catch up and do better!
The specific differences can only be truly understood after using it. PDMax has recently released version 1.3, and I’ve tried it – it’s really good; there have been significant improvements compared to previous versions. The original poster can download a trial version from their official website, and all functions of the PDMax trial version are available without any restrictions, which is a great feature.
There are tutorials; it’s recommended to give them a try*. Experience it for yourself.