Creating AP Specs V8i TRN011560-10002 PDF

Creating AutoPLANT Specs
V8i

Bentley Institute Course Guide
TRN011560‐1/0002
Copyright Information
Trademarks
AccuDraw, Bentley, the “B” Bentley logo, MDL, MicroStation and SmartLine are registered
trademarks; PopSet and Raster Manager are trademarks; Bentley SELECT is a service mark of
Bentley Systems, Incorporated or Bentley Software, Inc.
AutoCAD is a registered trademark of Autodesk, Inc.
Other brands and product names are the trademarks of their respective owners.
Patents
United States Patent Nos. 5,8.15,415 and 5,784,068 and 6,199,125.
Copyrights
©2000‐2009 Bentley Systems, Incorporated.
MicroStation ©1998 Bentley Systems, Incorporated.
All rights reserved.
V8i 2 Feb-10
Copyright © 2010 Bentley Systems Incorporated

Table of Contents
Course Overview ......................................................................................................... 1
Description ............................................................................................................. 1
Target Audience ..................................................................................................... 1
Prerequisites .......................................................................................................... 1
Objectives .............................................................................................................. 1
Modules Included .................................................................................................. 2
System Requirements ............................................................................................ 3
AutoCAD® or related Autodesk® Products ..................................................................3
ProjectWise Supported Versions ........................................................................... 3
Databases Supported ...................................................................................................3
Installing the Dataset ............................................................................................. 4
Software Installation .............................................................................................. 4
AutoPlant Specifications .............................................................................................. 5
Overview ................................................................................................................ 5
Prerequisites .......................................................................................................... 5
Objectives .............................................................................................................. 5
Introductory Knowledge ........................................................................................ 6
Questions .....................................................................................................................6
Answers ........................................................................................................................6
Piping Industry Codes and Specification Sheets .................................................... 7
Specification Sheets .....................................................................................................7
Classes ..........................................................................................................................7
AutoPLANT Specs .........................................................................................................7
AutoPLANT Component Catalogs .......................................................................... 8
Catalog ‐ Component Tables ........................................................................................9
Catalog ‐ Special Tables ............................................................................................. 10
CatalogTables ............................................................................................................ 11
DefaultSysIDs ............................................................................................................ 12
Managing SysIDs ....................................................................................................... 13

Feb‐10 i Table of Contents
Copyright © 2009 Bentley Systems, Incorporated
AutoPLANT Specs ................................................................................................. 14
Viewing Installed Sample Specs ................................................................................ 15
Special Tables ............................................................................................................ 17
Component Placement ........................................................................................ 19
Specification Retrieval Definition .............................................................................. 19
End Conditions & Joints ............................................................................................ 21
Module Review .................................................................................................... 23
Questions .................................................................................................................. 23
Answers ..................................................................................................................... 24
Summary .............................................................................................................. 24
Generating Specs ....................................................................................................... 25
Overview .............................................................................................................. 25
Prerequisites ........................................................................................................ 25
Objectives ............................................................................................................ 25
Introductory Knowledge ...................................................................................... 26
Questions .................................................................................................................. 26
Answers ..................................................................................................................... 26
Specification Generator Overview ....................................................................... 27
Based on the Spec Sheet ........................................................................................... 27
Basic Steps Using the Specification Generator ......................................................... 28
Creating a New Spec ............................................................................................ 28
General Recommendations ...................................................................................... 28
Adding Descriptive Information to the Spec ............................................................. 32
Defining the Search Criteria ...................................................................................... 33
Creating Additional Sections ..................................................................................... 40
Building the Spec ................................................................................................. 48
Review .................................................................................................................. 49
Questions .................................................................................................................. 49
Answers ..................................................................................................................... 50
Summary .............................................................................................................. 50
Advanced Techniques ................................................................................................ 51
Overview .............................................................................................................. 51
Prerequisites ........................................................................................................ 51
Objectives ............................................................................................................ 51
Introductory Knowledge ...................................................................................... 52
Questions .................................................................................................................. 52
Answers ..................................................................................................................... 52
Removing Unwanted Sizes ................................................................................... 53
Setting the Long Description ................................................................................ 54
Table of Contents ii Feb‐10


Defining the Piece Mark ....................................................................................... 59
Adding Elbows, Tees and Flange Fittings ............................................................. 66
Reporting Functions ............................................................................................. 72
Optional Exercises ..................................................................................................... 75
Adding Material to Specs ..................................................................................... 76
Field Manager ...................................................................................................... 79
Lookup Fields and Lookup Editor ......................................................................... 81
LookUp Editor ........................................................................................................... 82
Adding Data for Multi Grade Components .......................................................... 84
Adding Customized Graphics to the Specification ............................................... 93
Module Review .................................................................................................... 98
Questions .................................................................................................................. 98
Answers ..................................................................................................................... 99
Summary ................................................................................................................. 100
AutoBend, AutoBranch, and AutoMate Tables ......................................................... 101
Overview ............................................................................................................ 101
Prerequisites ...................................................................................................... 101
Objectives .......................................................................................................... 101
Introductory Knowledge .................................................................................... 102
Questions ................................................................................................................ 102
Answers ................................................................................................................... 102
Configuring Tables for Automatic Placement .................................................... 103
AutoBranch Table ................................................................................................... 105
AutoMate Table ...................................................................................................... 108
Testing the Spec ...................................................................................................... 108
Module Review .................................................................................................. 109
Questions ................................................................................................................ 109
Answers ................................................................................................................... 110
Summary ............................................................................................................ 110
Creating & Modifying Catalogs ................................................................................. 111
Overview ............................................................................................................ 111
Prerequisites ...................................................................................................... 111
Objectives .......................................................................................................... 111
Introductory Knowledge .................................................................................... 112
Questions ................................................................................................................ 112
Answers ................................................................................................................... 112

Feb‐10 iii Table of Contents

Creating a New Catalog ...................................................................................... 113
Importing the Data .................................................................................................. 113
Filtering the Catalog ................................................................................................ 116
Adding New Records to the Spec ....................................................................... 121
Adding Fields to a Catalog .................................................................................. 122
Module Review .................................................................................................. 123
Questions ................................................................................................................ 123
Answers ................................................................................................................... 124
Summary ............................................................................................................ 124
Course Summary ..................................................................................................... 125
Review ................................................................................................................ 125
Questions ................................................................................................................ 125
Answers ................................................................................................................... 127
Appendix A .............................................................................................................. 129
Converting V2.0 Specs to V8i ............................................................................. 129
Appendix B .............................................................................................................. 135
SpecGen Data Fields .......................................................................................... 135
Appendix C .............................................................................................................. 139
Common Industry Acronyms ............................................................................. 139

iv Feb‐10

Course Overview
Description
This course gives the student a solid understanding of the methods used to create a user
spec from the installed component catalogs. Using the Specification Generator utility, the
student learns how to create a spec from multiple catalogs and to manage and customize
the spec data, including the Auto functions, for faster component placement. The student
also learns how to customize existing catalog for a specific client. Using Microsoft Access,
the user will learn how to create detailed reports of spec data.
Target Audience
New and existing users of AutoPLANT 3D applications. Students should have a fundamental
knowledge of piping components, piping pressure classes and the industry for which the
specs will be used.
Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of AutoPLANT “spec‐driven” design applications
Three to six months experience with 3D CAD modeling
Piping and associated equipment background
Industry Codes and Standards for which the specs will be applied
Objectives
Learn how Catalogs and Specifications are created and used.
Learn how to create a specification from multiple catalogs.
Learn how to manage and customize spec data.
Learn how to create detailed MicroSoft Access reports.
Learn how to use the Auto functions for faster component placement.
Learn how to create and modify catalogs.
Feb‐10 1 Course Overview
Modules Included
Modules Included
AutoPLANT Specifications
Generating Specs
Advanced Techniques
AutoFit, AutoBranch & AutoMate Tables
Creating & Modifying Catalogs
Conversion Tools
Appendix A – Common Spec Errors
Appendix B – SpecGen Data Fields
Appendix C – Common Industry Acronyms
Course Overview 2 Feb‐10
System Requirements
System Requirements
You must have a CD drive or internet access for product installation. The following
prerequisites are required to run the modules included in the AutoPLANT Plant Design V8i.
Processor: Intel Pentium 4 processor and AMD Athlon, 3.0 GHz or
greater or Intel or AMD Dual Core Processor, 2.0 GHz or
greater
Operating System: Microsoft Windows XP Professional SP2or later
Windows Vista 32 bit SP1
Internet: Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 SP1 or greater
Memory: 2GB or greater
Hard Disk: 2GB free hard disk space
Input Device: Industry‐standard input device supported by Windows
Output Device: Industry‐standard output device supported by Windows
Video Graphics Card: Industry‐standard video card/monitor
AutoCAD® or related Autodesk® Products
AutoCAD: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009
AutoCAD Mechanical Desktop: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Architectural Desktop: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Building Systems: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
AutoCAD Mechanical: 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008
Note: The latest applicable service packs must be used for all of the above products.
ProjectWise Supported Versions
Bentley ProjectWise V8i (08.11.05.XX)
Databases Supported
Microsoft Access 2000, 2002, 2003 ,2007
SQLServer 2000, 2003, 2005 and MSDE
SQL Server Express
Oracle 9i Release 2, Oracle 10g, Oracle 10g Release 2. Version: 10.2.0.4
Oracle 11g Release 1. Version: 11.1.0.6
Feb‐10 3 Course Overview
Installing the Dataset
Installing the Dataset
A dataset has been supplied with this course.
Download and Unzip the file onto your desktop or a location of your choice. You will be
instructed to install the file, during the specific lesson.
You will be creating a new specification using the Specification Generator application and
catalog files included in your AutoPLANT installation.
Software Installation
Prior to beginning this course, make sure you have installed the following:
AutoPLANT Piping and Equipment applications including all catalogs and
specifications.

Course Overview 4 Feb‐10

AutoPlant Specifications
Overview
AutoPLANT Plant Design provides database catalogs of tens of thousands of piping
components. Using the AutoPLANT Specification Generator utility, the student can define
the components that will be used during a specific modeling session. These subsets of
components, called a “spec”, contain all the pertinent information required for the
modeling and fabrication process much the same as the common industry spec sheet. The
modeling and reporting functions becomes faster and with less errors due to incorrect
component selection.
Sample specs are included with the shipped version of the software. These specifications are
available in Imperial, Metric and Mixed Metric versions. You were given the opportunity to
install one or more of these specifications when you installed the software.
While specification for a plant facility can comprise enormous volumes of printed material, a
solidly built “spec” using the AutoPLANT Specification Generator enables the user to not
only properly assemble the piping configurations, but provide reliable material reports
throughout the project.
This module provides a basic understanding of how specifications are created for a project,
which gives you an understanding of the true meaning behind the term AutoPLANT, a
powerful “spec‐driven” application.
Prerequisites
All catalogs and sample specs must be installed on the user system.
A basic understanding of Microsoft Access
Objectives
Understand the differences between catalogs and specifications
Learn the Microsoft Access catalog table structure
Learn to identify how component placement is controlled by specifications
Gain a basic understanding of initialization (.ini) files

Feb‐10 5 AutoPlant Specifications
Introductory Knowledge
Questions
1. Component catalogs are built into the application to provide a pick list for placement
within a model.
True
False
2. AutoPLANT Piping database tools provide a useful method for determining the class
definition of a specific component.
True
False

Answers
1. False: Component catalogs are installed with AutoPLANT. These catalogs provide data
on thousands of components from which manufacturer specific specs can be produced.
2. True: If you want to find the class definition of a specific component in a model, use the
Piping > Database Tools > Edit component command. Selecting the component lists the
class name and all relative data for the component.
AutoPlant Specifications 6 Feb‐10
Piping Industry Codes and Specification Sheets
Piping Industry Codes and Specification Sheets
Process facilities are built to predefined codes and specifications to ensure quality
construction and worker safety. Industry Codes originate from a broad number of sources
such as government agencies (OSHA, EPA) and organizations such as the American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) which developed the Petroleum Refinery Piping Code B31.1 that
governs operational procedures for refinery piping.
Compliance to a code is generally mandatory, enforced by regulatory agencies. Codes
published for the design of plant facilities include industry regulations such as pressure
ratings, temperature limits, material composition, worker safety, evacuation procedures,
plus many more. Insurance agencies require the owner of a facility to comply with these
requirements.
Specification Sheets
A specification sheet (commonly referred to as the spec sheet in the industry) include
detailed information for the physical construction of a facility. These spec sheets, for a
complex plant facility can comprise enormous volumes of printed material. Engineers and
designers use spec sheets to establish sizes, materials, ratings and dimensions for pipe and
equipment. Stress calculations use the information in a spec sheet to ensure components
withstand the loads and forces placed on them. The Purchasing Departments need spec
sheets to ensure proper materials and equipment has been ordered. Fabricators use spec
sheets to make sure they erect the structures and supports with the correct pipe sizes.
Instruments that control the process are also installed in compliance to the spec sheet to
ensure proper temperature and pressure settings.
Classes
Industry common specification sheets also contain class information that identifies specific
services categorized by the commodity contained within the pipe. These classes specify
whether the commodity is a gas or liquid, as well as design and operating temperatures,
pressures and corrosiveness. Classes use service parameters to establish flange ratings, pipe
wall thickness, pressure and temperature limits as well as the type of connections to be
used between the components. Examples of connections such as screwed, socket or butt
welded fittings include details such as the name of the component manufacturers.
AutoPLANT Specs
During this course, the term spec will be used in reference to the creation of a subset of
catalog data. When created and used properly, these specs ensure consistency and
uniformity throughout all phases of the project from the initial concept, through the
detailed design phase and on to the construction phase.
AutoPLANT Component Catalogs
AutoPLANT provides the means to produce code compliant deliverables.
The AutoPLANT PIPING and ISOMETRICS applications include catalogs of components, in
database format, from which manufacturer‐specific specs can be produced. The ability to
select and apply these specifications consistently throughout the project means the
modeling process becomes more efficient and that the finished product will adhere to
established industry codes. Consistency throughout the design process also provides
reliable material reporting across the multitude of disciplines required for a large project.
When you installed the AutoPLANT application, components catalogs were installed as
Microsoft Access (*.MDB) files. This file format enables a single file that can include
multiple tables.
Let’s take a short tour.
Î Exercise 1: View the list of catalogs from MS Explorer Window.
1. From Explorer select Program Files > Bentley > Plant V8i > Catalogs > Imperial
A list of Imperial unit catalogs installed with AutoPLANT application appears as shown.

2. Double click the ANSI‐ASME catalog to reveal the tables available.

Catalogs have two types of tables, component tables and special tables.
Catalog ‐ Component Tables
Component tables contain the component details. The component tables for the ANSI‐ASME
catalog as shown above include BOLT, BRANCH, CROSSES, ELBOW, FLANGE, GASKET,
MISC_FIT, ORIFICE, PIPE, REDUCER, SPACER, TEE, VALVBW and VALVFL.
Different catalogs will have different component tables.
For example, the CRANE catalog has component tables of FLANGE, VALVBW, VALVFL and
VALVESCSW. (Since CRANE does not manufacture other fittings, it does not have tables for
these fittings).
Creating Specs from Catalogs
Catalogs are not actively used when modeling with AutoPLANT Plant Design applications.
These catalogs are used to create the spec. When the defined spec is made active during the
modeling session, these selected components are made available for placement.
More about building specs later.
3. Open the ELBOW table from the ANSI‐ASME catalog.

Here you can see all the details defined for elbows included in this table.
Note: There are 2009 different elbows defined in this catalog.
The fields in the component tables will be examined in more detail later.
4. Close the Elbow table.
Catalog ‐ Special Tables
Not all tables in a catalog contain components. Some tables, considered “special tables” are
used for other purposes. For the ANSI‐ASME catalog, the special tables include:
CatalogTables
CatalogColumns
DefaultDef
FilterList
SpecGenFieldMap
DefaultSysID

CatalogTables
This table does not include components but rather a listing of all the tables included in
the ANSI‐ASME catalog.

CatalogColumns
This table can be found in some catalogs and contains definitions of table columns. This
table is not used by Specgen v. 8.9 and can be deleted. Most catalogs are delivered without
this table.
DefaultDef
This table includes default settings used by the Description Builder. Before any
customization it mostly contains definitions for LONG_DESR and PIECE_MARK description
fields.
FilterList & SpecGenFieldMap
These tables are considered legacy tables used in previous versions of the Specification
Generator application. These tables are NOT REQUIRED by SpecGen v7.0 and could be
deleted. However, there are cases when a user may want to use older versions of
Specification Generator, and thus these tables are typically left in the catalog.

DefaultSysIDs
An important “special” table included in the catalog is the DefaultSysID table.
SYS_IDs are reference values for components inserted into 3D models and are used by the
Update From Spec feature available in the Piping application.
Let’s discuss this one in more depth, including how to manage SysIDs.
Î Exercise 2: View the content of DefaultSysID table.
1. From the ANSI‐ASMI catalog, open the DefaultSysID table.

The values in the SysID_Fields column are classified into groups represented by the
number in the left column. The values of the fields belonging to a group are
concatenated together and a hash code is generated for it. The hash codes generated
for all the groups are then concatenated to form a SYS_ID.
2. Close the DefaultSysID table.


Managing SysIDs
The DefaultSysID table can be found in both Catalogs and Specifications.
The Catalog Editor manages SYS_IDS in the same manner as specs. The table DefaultSysIDs
is added to the catalog when it is opened in the Catalog Editor. The criteria defined in this
table, is used to generate the SYS_IDS .
For the new versions of SpecGen, SYS_IDS are based on the values of the fields.
These fields are classified into groups. The values of the fields belonging to a group are
concatenated together and a hash code is generated for it. The hash codes generated for all
the groups are then concatenated to form a SYS_ID.
In the DefaultSysIDs table, SysID Fields are the fields that are used to generate the SYS IDS
and GroupNo specifies the group they belong to.
The user generally creates specifications from several catalogs which can contain different
DefaultSysID tables. For this reason, each specification will contain its own DefaultSysID
table which is used during the specification generation procedure. To avoid potential
conflicts it is recommended that you customize the DefaultSysID table, both within the
catalogs and the specifications in the same way.
To customize the criteria for generating SYS_IDS, you can add or remove fields from the
given list of fields directly using MS Access. The fields can be edited in the DefaultSysIDs
table of the catalog. Within this table, you can specify your own groups or add fields to
existing groups.
The only way that two components can have the same SYS_ID is that they are essentially the
same component. So, if you put the same component in the catalog twice, it will have the
same SYS_ID. What’s the result, one of the two identical components will be selected from
the catalog when selecting by SYS_ID.
A problem could occur where the components are not the same. This could occur if there is
a difference in a field that is not used to calculate the SYS_ID and otherwise identical. If this
is the case then the user should put this field as one of the fields used to calculate SYS_IDS.
To eliminate this problem, it is recommended that the Repair SYS_ID function be used for all
newly created specifications.
You will learn how to use the Repair SYS_ID function in a later exercise.

AutoPLANT Specs
AutoPLANT Specs
In this course, the term specification (spec) refers to a database of component records that
match a predefined criteria. The spec is a subset of components available from a single
catalog or multiple catalogs.
To help get you started, sample specs were included in the application such as ANSI‐
extended, DIN, JIS, other industry standard components, as well as unique components
from well known suppliers.
Carbon Steel: A sample carbon steel specification, based on 150‐pound American
Standard Institute
Stainless Steel: A sample stainless steel specification (Imperial: SS150, Metric: MSS150,
and Mixed Metric: MMSS150).
Ductile Iron: A sample ductile iron specification (Imperial: Ductile, Metric: MDUCT, and
Mixed Metric: MMDUCT.).
Victaulic: A sample Victaulic specification (Imperial: Victaulic, Metric: MVICT, and Mixed
Metric: MMVICT.)
TriClove: A sample Tri‐Clover specification (Imperial: Triclove, Metric: MTric, Mixed
Metric: MMTric).
You had the opportunity to install one or more of these specs during your software
installation.
Creating Your Own Specs
It is a good idea to learn how to create specs for a specific project.
For example, Carbon Steel (CS300.MDB) is a sample spec containing 300LB rated fittings. It
was created by filtering the ANSI‐ASME, BONNEY FORGED, CRANE, LADISH, GEN COMP, and
NON STANDARD catalogs for fittings that meet this criteria.
You will see later, some of this filtering was incomplete. A good reason to not use out‐of‐
box specs, but to build and test your own.
The Specification Generator utility, included with the application, enables you to easily build
new specs from the samples and customize the databases to suit a client’s needs.

AutoPLANT Specs
Viewing Installed Sample Specs
This exercise is intended to give you an understanding of the sample specifications installed
on your system.
Î Exercise 1: View the cs300 sample spec.
Note: If you have not loaded this sample spec, select a different one.
1. From Microsoft Explorer select Program Files > Bentley > Plant V8i > Specs >Imperial.
A list of Imperial unit specs installed with AutoPLANT application appears as shown.

2. Open cs300 spec by double clicking on the file.


AutoPLANT Specs
The file opens in Microsoft Access to reveal a list of tables.
Just like catalogs, specs have component tables and special tables.
3. Open the SpecTables file to list all the component tables included in the spec.

4. Close the SpecTable file.

AutoPLANT Specs
5. Open the ELBOW table.
Notice that the number of components in the spec is less than the number in the
catalogs. The subset of records in the spec numbers 144, while there were over 2000
records available in the ANSI‐ASME catalog alone.

6. Close the Elbow table.
Special Tables
There are several more special tables in a spec than in the catalogs. A few of the most
important tables include:
Auto‐group: The Auto_bend, Auto_mate and Auto_Tee tables are used by AutoPLANT
to determine which fitting to automatically place based on settings defined in the
application. For example, on a 4” 90 Degree centerline, should a Long Radius or Short
Radius elbow be placed?
SpecCatalogs: List of catalogs used to build this spec.
SpecInfo, SpecNotes: General information and notes (header info) about this spec.
The majority of the remaining special tables hold information on how this spec was built
from the listed catalogs.


AutoPLANT Specs
7. Open the SpecCatalog table to view a list of the catalogs that were used to create cs300.

8. Close the table.
9. Close the cs300 Access file.


Component Placement
Component Placement
Before you can learn how to create a spec, you need to know how AutoPLANT applications
use specs to place components.
Also discussed is the importance of End Conditions and Joints ‐ what are they and how do
they relate to component insertion from a spec.
Specification Retrieval Definition
AutoPLANT installs special initialization (.ini) files that hold component data. When you
insert a component, AutoPLANT reads the data from the specific files. Editing .ini files is
usually done by an experienced Project Administrator.
class.ini
When inserting a component into an AutoPLANT Piping model, the program reads “class
data” from a file called class.ini. Each component has a class definition that defines how the
component is to be inserted. One way for finding the class definition of a particular
component is to insert the component into a piping model, then select the Piping >
Database Tools > Edit Component command and pick the component.
When the edit dialog displays, press the Next Page to go to page 2 of the dialog. In the
Database Information list, you will find the CLASS name. In the dialog shown here, for a 90
LR Elbow, the CLASS name is listed as AT_ELBOW_LR_90.

This CLASS value references a section in the class.ini file. If you search your AutoPLANT
installation, you will find multiple class.ini files. AutoPLANT provides a class.ini file for each
module (i.e., one for base, one for cable trays, one for conduit, etc.). In the base piping
module, the class.ini file resides in the ..\MODULES\BASE sub‐directory.

Component Placement
The class.ini file can be opened with any text editor including Notepad or Wordpad.
Open the class.ini file and search for the elbow class enclosed in brackets. For the elbow in
the example above, search for [AT_ELBOW_LR_90]. You should find a section similar to the
one below.
[AT_ELBOW_LR_90]
PARENT_CLASS=BASE_BENDS_CLASS
PORT_KEY=ElbowPorts
METHOD_KEY=AT_ELBOW_LR_90
SPEC_KEY=ELBOW_LR_90
CLASS_DESCRIPTION=Base 90° Long Radius Elbow
SHORT_DESC=90ELL (LR)
SPEC_GROUP=FITTING
speckey.ini
One of the methods used to create the elbow entity is called SPEC_KEY. A value for the
SPEC_KEY method is assigned to the spec key group in the speckey.ini file. This defines the
search criteria that will be used to locate the component record in the spec. The speckey.ini
file resides in the same directory as class.ini file. For [AT_ELBOW_LR_90] the spec key is
[ELBOW_LR_90].
This is an example of the 90° Long Radius Elbow record in the speckey.ini file.
[ELBOW_LR_90]
SPEC_TABLE = ELBOW
WHERE_CLAUSE = GTYPE = '90L' AND (STYPE = 'LR' OR STYPE IS NULL) AND
MAIN_SIZE = '$$Nominal$$'
SPECKEY_SCRIPT = at_SpecKey_Fittings
DISPLAY_FIELDS=
MAIN_SIZE;END_COND_1;END_COND_2;RATING;SCHEDULE;LONG_DESCR
This definition instructs AutoPLANT how to filter through the selected spec to locate this
component record.

Component Placement
The keys are defined as follows:
SPEC_TABLE: the table or tables to search through
WHERE_CLAUSE: how to filter in the indicated tables
SPECKEY_SCRIPT: programmatic changes to where clause. In particular, what
function to run in SPECKEY.EBS basic script.
DISPLAY_FIELDS: spec fields to display for user selection if more than one record fits
the where clause.
In this example, the ELBOW table in the spec will search for records with GTYPE=90L,
STYPE=LR or Null, and MAIN_SIZE equal to the current nominal size. The at_SpecKey_Fitting(
) function may modify this search criteria (although in this case it does not). If more than
one elbow record matches the search criteria, it will display the MAIN_SIZE, End conditions 1
and 2, RATING, SCHEDULE, and LONG‐DESCR in a Specification Selection dialog so that you
can choose the one that you want to use to place the component as noted by the
DISPLAY_FIELDS definition.
End Conditions & Joints
endcodes.ini
The endcodes.ini file contains a list of valid end conditions that can be used by AutoPLANT.
Each end condition group specifies the end condition name and description. Some end
conditions have the EL variable defined as the legal set of engagement lengths allowed for
the type of end condition. In addition, the valid ODs are specified for the type of end code
specified. An end condition name must be 3‐characters or less, and the description should
be 30‐characters or less.
This is an example of two end condition group blocks in the endcodes.ini file.
[BW]
Name = BW
Description = Butt‐Weld End
EL = N/A
OD = PIPE_OD_M; PIPE_OD_R; PIPE_OD_B

[SWF]
Name = SWF
Description = Socket‐Weld Female End
Engagement_Type = Female
EL = SKT_DPTH_B; SKT_DPTH_R; SKT_DPTH_M
OD = PIPE_OD_M; PIPE_OD_R; PIPE_OD_B

Component Placement
joints.ini
End code data stored in the joints.ini file define the valid joints that are used as connectivity
checking criteria, when connecting components for all modules.
The joints.ini file contains records that define the valid joint conditions that can exist in an
AutoPLANT model. These joints are checked whenever you attempt to connect
components. Each joint record consists of the following keyword definitions.
[JointName]: The type and name of the joint.
End1: The first end code of the joint. This value should be specified as defined in
the spec.
End2: The second end code of the joint. This value should be specified as defined in
the spec.
ReqMatch: The list of port fields, separated by semi‐colons that must match each
other for the joint to be valid.
OptMatch: The list of port fields, separated by semi‐colons, that should match, but
will produce a warning if they do not.
Fasteners: The list of fastener components, separated by colons, required to
complete the joint.
COCOScript: Optional script that may be executed to provide additional connectivity
checks.
FastenerScript: Optional script used to complete the fasteners.
Description: A description of this joint.
Tolerance Variable: Tolerance settings for the alignment of connecting ports.
This is an example of a flanged joint record in the JOINTS.INI file. It indicates that when
connecting two flanged components, for a valid joint to be made, the connecting end
conditions must both match one of the values shown for the End1 and End2 keywords. Also,
the Nominal (ND) size and Rating (PCL) must match, the Facing (FAC) should match and will
display a warning message if they do not, and the Gasket (AT_GASKET) and Bolts (AT_BOLT)
drawing scripts will automatically be executed to place these items between these
components if the connection is validated.
[Flanged]
End1 = FL ; WAF; WFL; FLR
End2 = FL ; WAF; WFL; FLR
ReqMatch = ND; PCL
OptMatch = FAC
cocoscript = at_flange_coco
FastenerScript = at_FlangedJoint_fasteners
Description = Flanged Joint
Tolerance_Variable = MAX_FLANGEDSLOPE_TOL
When adding components to a spec, it is important to assign appropriate end conditions so
that the proper joints are created.

Module Review
Module Review
Now that you have completed this module, let’s review what you have learned.
Questions
Answer these questions to be True or False. Detailed answers appear on the following page.
1. Insurance Agencies require the owner of a facility to comply with rigid industry codes.
True
False
2. Crane catalogs has only tables for Flanges and Valves.
True
False
3. Specifications are created from only one catalog.
True
False
4. Class data for placing a component in a piping model is read from the class.ini file.
True
False


Summary
Answers
1. True: Compliance to industry standards are generally mandatory and enforced by
regulatory agencies. The importance of adhering to these codes begins at the design
stage by creating industry compliant specifications.
2. True: Crane does not manufacture fittings other than flanges and valves.
3. False: Specifications can be created from single catalogs or by combining fittings from
multiple catalogs.
4. True: The class.ini file is one of several initialization files installed with AutoPLANT. The
program reads placement information stored in the .ini file.

Summary
You are now able to:
Understand the differences between catalogs and specifications
Learn the Microsoft Access catalog table structure
Learn to identify how component placement is controlled by specifications
Gain a basic understanding of initialization (.ini) files


Generating Specs
Overview
Building a spec from a subset of catalog data, to be used during a project, streamlines the
modeling process. Component selection becomes more efficient, eliminated errors while
sharing consistency across all members of the project team. The AutoPLANT Specification
Generator application is used to create and manage spec and catalog data as well as
providing accurate reporting.
Prerequisites
Student must possess a working knowledge of Microsoft Access
Objectives
Learn how to create a new spec using Specification Generator.
Learn how to define and save descriptive information with the spec.
Learn how to configure the constraints for the PIPE section.
Learn how to add new sections to the spec configuration.

Feb‐10 25 Generating Specs

Questions
1. Specification Generator enables you to create a spec using a familiar work method.
True
False
2. By designing constraints within the spec sections, the number of components to select
from during modeling is minimized.
True
False

Answers
1. True: Specification Generator uses the same design philosophy as the designer’s spec
sheet.
2. True: By defining constraints within the spec sections, the volume of components to
choose from during modeling is reduced, eliminating mistakes and increasing
productivity.
Generating Specs 26 Feb‐10

Specification Generator Overview
Specification Generator Overview
The Specification Generator application is installed with AutoPLANT. It is used for creating
specs for the AutoPLANT applications. Typically, before modeling begins, the Project
Administrator generates a spec that has been defined by specific company requirements. A
spec is produced from components selected from the catalogs and identified by unique
component IDs.
Once the spec has been built, it is made active to the project. During the modeling session,
the CAD designer selects all components from the pre‐defined spec. By creating the custom
spec, the modeling process becomes consistent across all project team members.
The Specification Generator also serves as a Catalog Editor, used to add to the set of records
contained in a catalog, or edit existing catalog records. You can also define the types of
input allowed in certain fields, add new tables to an existing database, delete fields from
existing tables, and a variety of other customization features.
Based on the Spec Sheet
The architecture of Specification Generator is based on a work method familiar to piping
designers ‐ the spec sheet.
As shown in the sample, a spec sheet is generally broken into component sections.

The Specification Generator uses this same method to generate specifications from the
component catalogs.
This architecture also simplifies the update process, by enabling you to review or modify
each component section. You simply modify the constraint for the desired section, and then
rebuild the spec.

Creating a New Spec
Basic Steps Using the Specification Generator
1. Launch Specification Generator.
2. Select a project. The action predefines the project paths and unit information.
3. Name the new specification. Specification Generator creates a database file with the
specification name.
4. Select catalog or catalogs from which to build the spec.
5. Add a section to the spec.
6. Define filters for the section.
7. Continue to add sections and filters for different component types.
8. Use the Build Spec option to create the spec.
The new spec will be recreated based on your defined sections each time you open the
spec.
Creating a New Spec
Now you will use the Specification Generator application to build a new spec complete with
all search criteria.
General Recommendations
The filters are stored in the catalog MS Access file as a separate table named “filter.”
You may open that table in MS Access and rename the filters, but you cannot sort the
names so that they will appear in the newly sorted order in the Specification Generator
program.
Be conscientious about adding a new STYPE to the filter process. For instance, if you
create two new STYPE values, THF and SWF, for threaded flanges and socketweld
flanges respectively, you will be required to modify speckey.ini in order for AutoPLANT
to be able to place these new STYPE flanges in the model.
Note: Another useful tool is to make a new “STYPE” – FLL for full couplings. Currently you can only filter
half couplings. The “not” half coupling filter will not work to display full couplings only.
You should familiarize yourself with the various GTYPE and STYPE values for each
component in order to effectively build filters. The age‐old adage of “practice makes
perfect” will be the best way to experiment building filters until you find the best
combination of filter types to provide the display you want.
When building specs, don’t forget to add the required nozzles, strainers, control valves,
relief valves, etc., which may not be designated in the written piping spec.

Creating a New Spec
The following exercises will teach you how to build a new spec named for use by the Piping
application’s Base module. You will create the new spec and define all descriptive
information.

Î Exercise 1: Using the Specification Generator create a new spec called My_New_Spec.
1. Select All Programs > Bentley > Plant V8i > SpecGen > Specification Generator from
your Windows Start menu.
Note: Or open the Plant V8i program group. Double click to open Specgen, then double click the
Specification Generator icon.
2. The application requests that you select a project. For this exercise, select Bentley Plant
V8i PROJECTS > Sample Imperial.
Note: When you select a project, all project paths and unit information is loaded automatically

3. Click OK.
Note: SpecGen may ask you to log in. This is to prevent unauthorized creation or modification of a spec.
Log in by entering Supervisor in the User Name and Password fields.
4. The Specification Generator utility opens with the SpecGen Startup Options dialog,
enabling you to specify what task you would like to perform. Click the Create a new
spec radio button.

5. Press OK.

Creating a New Spec
6. Type My_New_Spec in the File name field.

7. Click Open.
You will be prompted to select the catalogs that will be used as the source for building
this spec.

8. Click the Add button and select catalogs from Imperial directory.
Note: Click and hold down the Ctrl key to select multiple catalogs.


Creating a New Spec
9. Select: Non‐standard.mdb, Anderson Greenwood. mdb, Ansi‐asme.mdb, Bonney
Forged, Crane.mdb and Ladish.mdb.

10. When you are done selecting click Open to add the catalogs.

11. Click OK to complete the selection.
Next, you will be prompted to add a section. This is the first filter group that will be
used to create the spec.
12. Select the PIPE section from the list. Click OK.


Creating a New Spec
Your screen should appear similar to the figure below.

Spend a few moments to tour the interface, including the pull‐down menus and button
icons located at the top.
13. Select File Save or use the Save Spec as… icon to save the file.
Adding Descriptive Information to the Spec
Î Exercise 2: Add descriptive information pertaining to the spec.
1. Select the + sign next to Specification Details to expand the top area of the dialog.
Here you can record general descriptive information about the spec.

2. Use the scroll bar on the right to view all the details.

Creating a New Spec
3. Roll the cursor over the Function buttons on the right. These buttons will be used for
adding and deleting information to this area.
4. Click the + button on the right, to Add Header Item.
5. Enter Max Temperature click OK to add the header.

6. Repeat this process to add another header called Service.
Scroll down the form and enter the detail values as shown below.

7. From the menu select Spec > Save Spec Header to save the details with the spec.
Defining the Search Criteria
In the next exercise, you will define the search criteria that will be used by the application to
build the new spec.
Î Exercise 3: Define the criteria for the PIPE section.
The spec will contain the following pipe:
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐PIPE‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
1/2" ‐ 2 1/2" PIPE, SCH 80, CS, ASTM A106
3" ‐ 24" PIPE, SCH 40, CS, ASTM A106
26" – 36" PIPE, SCH 20, CS, ASTM A106
1. Collapse the Specification Details area, using the – sign.
2. Click the … Button next to the Select Classes label in the PIPE section.

Creating a New Spec

3. The Class Browser dialog displays.
4. In the Class Browser expand the Base node in the Available Classes section to view the
class descriptions as shown.

This dialog indicates that the PIPE section is pre‐defined to contain AT_PIPE and
AT_NIPPLE classes.
Note: If there are classes in the list you do not want, use the < to remove them from the right field.
5. Click OK to close the Class Browser dialog.
The first set of records in your PIPE section will contain small schedule 80 pipe. The
Min.Size, Max.Size, Sched, etc. fields in the Constraints area of the PIPE section enable
you to define the criteria used to build the component records to be included in the
spec.
6. Clicking in each field will display a drop‐down list of options.

Creating a New Spec

7. Select the constraints for each field as shown below.

Note: Mat Grade is ASTM A 106.

8. Since the Expert Mode check box is enabled, the Count field in the Constraints section
shows the value of Expert. If you want to view exactly how many records would be
added to the spec based on the current constraints defined, disable the Expert Mode
check box. Notice that the Count field now indicates the number of records that will
match the criteria defined.

Creating a New Spec
9. Click the Preview Spec button in the Constaints area to take a closer look at the 13
records. The application will return a grid as shown below.

10. Right‐click on a component record in the grid and select the View Component Details
option from the context menu.
A dialog will display showing component information, dimensional data and a bitmap
image of the component.


Creating a New Spec
11. Click Database Information >> to expand the dialog and display additional database
field values.

12. Click the arrows on the right side of the dialog, to scroll to the Previous/Next component
in the Spec Section Preview grid and display its details.
When finished viewing the details, click X at the top right to close and return to the Spec
Section Preview.
13. Click X to close the grid.
14. Click the Add Row button in the Constraints area.
15. Now add records for pipe sizes from 3” to 24.”
16. Set the constraints as shown below. Notice that this search returned 15 records.


Creating a New Spec
17. This time to create a new entry for Pipe, copy the 3” to 24” row, using a right click and
select Duplicate Row.

The system copies the row and makes the new row active.
18. Update the Min Size, Max Size and Schedule to the correct values of 26” to 36”,
Schedule 20.

19. Select Preview spec to view the pipe records.
20. Close the preview when you are done.
Now we will add one more constraint to filter only ANSI‐ASME piping.
21. In the Constraints area, click the Modify Constraints button.


Creating a New Spec
22. Under the Available Fields scroll down and select CATALOG. Use the > arrow to move
the selection to the Selected Fields.

23. Select OK
24. Set the CATALOG constraint to ASME/ANSI B36.10.for each row.

25. Click the Preview Spec button in the Constraints area.
26. Select the COMP_INDX column to sort the section by size. The application will return a
grid as shown below.

Creating a New Spec
You have now completed the pipe section of your spec. However, there are still some issues
to address, such as how to modify the description and remove 5” pipe from the list. You will
learn how to accomplish these tasks later in the course.
27. Save the spec using the menu function or the icon.
Creating Additional Sections
Î Exercise 4: Create a section for butterfly valves.
1. Select Spec > Add Section from the menu or use the + icon in the top menu.
2. Instead of selecting an item from the drop‐down list, type BFLY VALVE for the Section
Name.

3. Click OK to add the section.
Note: You can collapse the PIPE section to shorten the dialog as shown.

4. Click the … Select Classes button to assign which classes to search.
Note: Just because we named it BFLY, the application does not know to limit itself to butterfly valves.

Creating a New Spec
5. In the Class Browser, expand the Base node in the Available Classes tree.
h
6. Select the Base Butterfly Valve class and click the > button to add the class.
7. Click OK to close the dialog.
8. Disable the Expert Mode check box, then set up the constraints section for the butterfly
valves.
You will need to add the Long Description constraint.
9. Select Modify Contraints button. Select LONG_DESC and move to Selected Fields
window using >.



Creating a New Spec
11. Set the constraints as shown below.

On Row 2 select: CRANE 150LB QUARTERMASTER BUTTERFLY VALVE LUG WAFER STYLE.
On Row 3 select: CRANE 150LB QUARTERMASTER BUTTERFLY VALVE WAFER STYLE.
Although there is polishing work to do on these sections, such as setting the material,
you will first define the GLOBE and GATE valve sections.

Note: As your spec grows, remember to collapse Sections by selecting the “–“ symbol next to the section
name.

12. Save the spec.

Creating a New Spec
Î Exercise 5: Add a new section named Globe Valve.
1. Select Spec > Add Section.
2. Name the section GLOBE VALVE, which uses the Base Globe Valve (AT_VALVE_GLOBE)
class.
You want the globe valves in your specification to include:
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐GLOBE VALVE‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
1/2" ‐ 2 " LADISH GLOBE VALVE, 600LB, CS, ATSM A105
1/2" ‐ 2 " BONNY FORGE , 150LB, RAISED FACE BOLTED BONNET
GLOBE VALVE (CONVENTIONAL)
3" – 20" BONNEY FORGE, 150LB, BUTTWELD BOLTED BONNET
GLOBE VALVE A216‐WCB
2 ½” – 20” BONNEY FORGE, 150LB, RAISED FACE BOLTED BONNET
GLOBE VALVE A216‐WCB
3. Click the Select Classes button to assign the classes to search.
4. In the Class Browser, expand the Base node in the Available Classes tree.
5. Select the Base Globe Valve class and click > to add the class.

6. Click OK to close the Class Browser dialog.

Creating a New Spec
7. Disable the Export Mode check box then set the Constraints as shown below.

Looking at the record Count, there appears to be too many flanged and buttweld valves.
8. Click the Preview Spec button to view the records. Notice that the spec is using the
same valve from several different manufacturers.
9. Close the Preview dialog.
You can limit this “duplication” by assigning a filter‐by‐catalog.
10. Click Modify Constraints, then select and add the CATALOG field to the Selected Fields
area.


Creating a New Spec
11. Set the CATALOG constraint for the flanged and buttweld valves to Bonney Forge and
the threaded SCF (Screwed Female) to Ladish.

Note: The values shown for the CATALOG constraint are picked from the CATALOG field in the selected
Catalogs. When generating new catalogs using tables from the existing catalogs always reset these
values to the new catalogs name or any other value.

Î Exercise 6: Add a Gate Valve section
1. Create a new section called GATE VALVE, which uses the Base Gate Valve
(AT_VALVE_GATE) and the Base Extended End Gate Valve (AT_VALVE_EXT_GATE)
classes.
2. Use the Modify Constraint option to add Constraint columns FACING_1, CATALOG, and
END_COND_2 fields to the constraint.
Use the following criteria for the gate valves.
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐GATE VALVE‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
1/2" ‐ 2 " BONNEY FORGE, 800LB, SOCKETWELD BOLTED BONNET EXTENDED END GATE VALVE
1 ½” – 2 ½” GATE VALVE, 600LB, CS, ASTM A105
2 ½” – 24” BONNY FORGE, 150LB, RAISED FACE BOLTED BONNET THRU‐CONDUIT PIPELINE GATE
1/2" ‐ 2 " BONNEY FORGE, 150LB, RAISED FACE BOLTED BONNET GATE VALVE (CONVENTIONAL)
3” ‐ 24” BONNEY FORGE, 150LB, BUTTWELD BOLTED BONNET GATE VALVE
4” – 20” BONNEY FORGE, 150LB, RAISED FACE BOLTED BONNET GATE VALVE
Note: After creating the first Gate Valve entry, use the Duplicate Row command (highlight entry and
right‐click) to create the additional entries.

Creating a New Spec
3. When you are finished defining the constraints, disable the Expert Mode check box to
view the Count values shown.

4. Save the file.

Creating a New Spec
Î Exercise 7: Add a Relief Valve section.
1. Create a new section called RELIEF VALVE, which uses the Base Relief Valve
(AT_VALVE_RELIEF and the Base Relief Valve C/W Instrumentation Callout)
(AT_VALVE_RELIEF1) classes.

2. Use the Modify Constraint option to add Constraint column FACING_1 field to the
constraint.
Next, use the following criteria for the gate valves.
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐RELIEF VALVE‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
1" ‐ 1 ½ " RELIEF VALVE, 150LB, RF, CS
2" ‐ 2 " RELIEF VALVE, 150LB, RAISED FACE X 150LB RAISED FACE, CS
3. When you have defined the constraints, disable the Expert Mode check box to view the
Count values as shown.

Building the Spec
Building the Spec
The previous exercises defined how the spec will be built. Now it is time to copy all of the
records to the spec.
Î Exercise 1: Build the spec
1. Select Spec > Build Spec>Build Entire Spec.
The Specification Generator will display a progress dialog, and then report that the spec
was built successfully as shown below.

2. Save the spec.
In the next module, you will add a few additional sections to the spec and learn new
ways to refine constraint definitions.
3. Take a few moments now to open the spec and become familiar with the Access file.

This exercise completes this module.

Review
Review
Questions
1. Specs are created using the Specification Generator application.
True
False
2. By selecting a sample project when you build a spec, you can automatically define the
project paths and unit information.
True
False
3. All Header information is automatically generated whenever you create a new spec.
True
False
4. When you Preview a spec, you can easily view all component details.
True
False
5. By applying constraints, you can reduce the number of records included in the spec.
True
False


Summary
Answers
1. True: Specs are subsets of Catalog data. Thousands of components are installed when
you install the Catalogs. You can build a spec using the Specgen application.

2. True: If you select a Imperial sample project, the specs that you define all use the
Imperial standard of measurements. The appropriate catalogs are listed for selection.
Also the spec will be save to the correct location, ready for a project.

3. False: Header information defined for the spec, contains both automatically generated
information as well as information manually entered by the creator. This information
provides details including who created the spec, when it was last modified, the services
applicable, etc.

4. True: When you select the Preview button, a listing of the resulting records for the
constraints you have defined appears. All component details for a specific record are
shown by selecting a record and right clicking to display a dialog containing all
description and dimensional data, including a graphic image of the component.

5. True: When you define the sizes and ratings for a specific components, such as Butterfly
Valves, you can further reduce the total number of records by selecting specific
catalogs. Other constraints such as the Schedule or Material Grade will further define
your list.
Summary
Create a new spec using Specification Generator.
Define and save descriptive information with the spec.
Configure the constraints for the PIPE section.
Add new sections to the spec configuration.



Advanced Techniques
Overview
This module teaches more advanced techniques for managing and modify the data within
the spec. Once a spec is created you may want to remove unwanted sizes from spec
sections for convenience or customize the Long Description that will ultimately appear on a
generated report or isometric drawing. Users will also learn how to modify the values of the
Piece Mark and add additional fittings and materials to the spec. Using Microsoft Access
Report Writer the user learns to create and modify a detailed report.
Prerequisites
Students should have mastered the concepts of building a spec.
Objectives
Learn how to remove unwanted sizes from a spec section.
Learn how to customize the Long Description value in the spec.
Learn how to create a meaningful Piece Mark.
Learn how to add elbow, tee and flange fittings to the spec
Learn how to create and modify the spec report.
Learn how to add new materials to a spec.

Feb‐10 51 Advanced Techniques

Before you begin this module, let’s define what you already know.
Questions
1. Specs are created from subsets of component catalogs, based on constraints defined in
the Specification Generator application.
True
False
2. When you update a spec, the new spec is automatically generated.
True
False

Answers
1. True: When you create a spec, the constraints applied can reduce the number of
records in the spec, enabling the modeler to easily select the correct component.
2. False: When you modify a spec, you must rebuild the spec to include and update to all
components or only those which have been modified.
Advanced Techniques 52 Feb‐10

Removing Unwanted Sizes
Removing Unwanted Sizes
If you examine the pipe sizes, you will notice that size 5” has made it into our spec. To
remove any unwanted sizes use the following technique.
Î Exercise 1: Remove the 5” pipe size from the spec.
1. In the PIPE section, click in the Constraints row where the pipe sizes 3” to 24” are
defined.
2. Right‐click to display a context menu.
3. Choose Select Sizes to display the Filter Sizes dialog.
4. Select and move the non‐standard pipe sizes (5”) to the Excluded Sizes as shown.

5. The record Count should now decrease by one to 12 as shown.


Setting the Long Description

Î Exercise 2: Remove all unwanted sizes from all other sections that may include non‐
standard pipe sizes.
Note: The system will display all sizes within the catalog, but you only have to remove unwanted sizes
from within the filtered sizes.

The Long Description values in the catalogs are often not the desired descriptions for
inclusion in the specification. Remember, the spec description will feed into the model
database and also appear on generated reports, such as Bills of Materials as well as the
ISOGEN drawings.
The Specification Generator enables you to build the long description from a combination of
static text as well as catalog fields.
For pipe, you will learn how to modify the Long Description to display as shown below:
LADISHX1
Where CATALOG represents the actual catalog for the components in the spec.
Î Exercise 1: Modify the Long Description for the spec.
1. From the menu select Spec > Default Description Builder.


2. Highlight the LONG_DESCR field and click Edit.
The definition is defined in the Description section of this dialog.

Those fields that you would like to be part of the description are added by selecting
from the list using the scroll button, and clicking the down arrow button. Fields added
to the definition in this manner will appear in this format: <<field name here>>. Static
text is added by simply entering text.
You can preview the results for the current definition clicking the Preview button.
3. Input the Long Description in the Definition text box as shown below:
<<CATALOG>> X <<MAIN_SIZE>>
Note: Square brackets around the text, [‐‐‐], ensure that the text is always written even when the next
field is null. If the text is not enclosed in square brackets, the text is only written when the value
for the next field in the criteria is not null. This does not apply for text strings at the end of the
criteria.
4. Click Preview to view an example of the results as shown below.

5. Click OK to apply the new definition to the spec.
Note: The Long Description Preview function available to each section may not always properly
concatenate a custom Long Description, but the spec will build with the correct information.
In the previous exercise you learned how to set the Long Description for the entire spec.
However there might be situations where we want a particular section row to have different
criteria for generating the Long Descriptions.
Î Exercise 2: Set the long description of a specific row.
Note: The Long Description criteria for a row would override the default Long Description criteria
defined for the whole spec.
For pipe, you will learn how to modify the Long Description to display as shown here.
‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐PIPE‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐
1/2" ‐ 2 1/2" PIPE, SCH 80, SMLS, CS, ASTM A106
3" ‐ 24" PIPE, SCH 40, SMLS, CS, ASTM A106
26" – 36" PIPE, SCH 20, CS, ASTM A106
1. Right click in the first constraints row of the PIPE section to open the Description
Builder.


2. In the Fields dialog, highlight the LONG_DESC and clickEdit.

3. Remove the <<CATALOG>>X<<MAIN_SIZE>> entries by selecting as clicking Delete.
4. Add the definition in the Description field as shown:
<<LONG_DESCR>>, SMLS, CS, <<MAT_GRADE>>
5. Click Preview to view an example of the results.

Before you click OK, you will copy this string to the clipboard so you can apply this Long
Description definition to the other rows in the PIPE section.


6. Select the entire string in the Definition box, and right‐click.
7. Select Copy from the menu to copy the string to the clipboard.
8. Now click OK to apply the new definition to the current row of the PIPE section.
9. To complete the exercise, open the Long Description Editor for each of the other PIPE
section rows.
10. In the dialog, click the Long Description text box to make it active.
11. Right‐click and select Paste to paste the format for the current row.
Remember, 26” ‐36” pipe isn’t SMLS so you must remove it from the definition before
clicking OK.
Note: It’s best to use fields as much as possible when creating descriptions. If you need to update you
only need to update the field in the spec to update the description. Using static text means each
description will have to be manually updated.

Î Exercise 3: Set the Descriptions for all valve sections to <<LONG_DESCR>>.


Defining the Piece Mark
The PIECE_MARK value is determined by a concatenation of values from selected database
fields.
These values, as delivered in the catalogs, are often not the desired values to accurately
identify the component for a shop drawing.
The Specification Generator enables you to build the Piece Mark from a combination of
static text as well as catalog fields. For this Spec, you will learn how to modify the Piece
Mark to display as shown below for 10” pipe:
PIP10XX
Created from the criterion:
<<GTYPE>><<STYPE>><<MAIN_SIZE>>X<<RUN_SIZE>>X<<BRAN_SIZE>>
Î Exercise 1: Set the Piece Mark for the Spec
1. Select Spec > Default Description Builder.
2. Highlight <<PIECE_MARK>> and select Edit.
The Piece Mark is defined in the Definition section of this dialog. Catalog fields that you
want to be included are added by selecting and then clicking the down arrow button.
Fields added to the description in this manner will appear in this format:
<<field name here>>.
Static text is added to the definition by entering it into the Definition area.
3. Preview the results by clicking the Preview button.
4. Enter the definition as shown:
<<GTYPE>><<STYPE>><<MAIN_SIZE>>X<<RUN_SIZE>>X<<BRAN_SIZE>>
Note: Square brackets around the text, [‐‐‐], ensure that the text is always written even when the next
field is null. Where the text is not enclosed in square brackets the text is only written when the
value for the next field in the criteria is not null. This doesn’t apply for text strings at the end of
the criteria.

5. Click Preview to view the results.

6. Click OK to apply the new definition to the spec.
Note: The Piece mark Preview function available to each section may not always properly concatenate a
custom Piece Mark, but the spec will build with the correct information.

Î Exercise 2: Set the Piece Mark for a Section Row
In the last exercise you set the PIECE_MARK for the entire spec. However you may want a
specific section row to have different criteria for generating the PIECE_MARK.
Note: The PIECE_MARK criteria for a row would override the default PIECE_MARK criteria defined for
the whole spec.
For the Pipe section, you will learn how to modify the Piece Mark to display as shown:
ANSI B36.10‐‐‐Base‐‐‐AT_PIPE1
Created from the criteria:
<<CATALOG>>[‐‐‐]<<MODULE_NAME>>‐‐‐<<CLASS_NAME>><<MAIN_SIZE>>
1. Select the first Constraints row of the PIPE section, right‐click and select Description
Builder to open the Piece Mark Editor.
2. Select the PIECE MARK field name and click Edit.
3. Enter the Piece Mark in the Definition text box as shown:
Note: Delete previous text in the text box before creating new definition.
<<CATALOG>>[‐‐‐]<<MAIN_SIZE>>‐‐‐‐<<GTYPE>>

4. Click Preview to view an example of the results.

5. To apply this Piece Mark definition to the other rows in the PIPE section, select the
entire string in the Piece Mark text box, right‐click and select Copy from the context
menu to copy to the clipboard.
6. Click OK to apply the definition to the current row of the PIPE section.
7. Open the Piece Mark Editor for each of the PIPE section rows. In the dialog, click in the
Definition text box to make it active, and right‐click and select Paste to add the new
format for the current row.


Î Exercise 3: Multi‐item filtering
In this exercise, you will create a section called OLET and configure the constraints as listed.
1/2" ‐ 2" Class 300# SW CS, A105
Elbolet
Sockolet
Latrolet
3" ‐ 36" SCH STD BW CS, A1‐5
Elbolet
Sockolet
Latrolet
2. Select OLET from the Section Name drop‐down list, and click OK.
3. Click Select Classes button to verify the selected classes.


5. Click Modify Constraint and add columns Schedule and CATALOG to the constraints.

6. Click OK.
7. Set the first row as:
1/2” to 2”, Rating 3000LB, EndCond SWF, Catalog Bonney Forged.
Specification Generator should return 65 records as shown below.

Note: Remember to uncheck Expert Mode to get a record count.

8. Add a new row and set the constraint values as:
2 1/2” to 36”, End Cond BW, Schedule STD, Catalog Bonney Forged.
Specification Generator should return 684 records as shown below.

9. Select the Preview Spec button. Notice that there are unwanted olet types such as
sweepolets and insert weldolets.

Next you will build a filter that limits the choices to elbolets, latrolets, threadolets and
weldolets.

Note: You can preview the component records of a single row in a section by right‐clicking in the desired
row then selecting the Preview option from the context menu.

10. Click in the CLASS_NAME field of second Constraints row, and then click on the down
arrow to display a selection list as shown below.

11. Select the "…" option at the bottom of the list to display a dialog that enables you to
select multiple classes to include in the CLASS_NAME constraint.

12. Check the four classes you wish to include.
13. Click OK.


Adding Elbows, Tees and Flange Fittings
Your olet number will be reduced.

In this exercise, you will practice adding sections and setting filters by the additional
sections for Elbows, Tees and Flanges.
Î Exercise 1: Add an Elbows section.
2. Name the section ELBOWS and click OK.
3. Click Select Classes and from the Base module, select: AT_ELBOW_LR_45,
AT_ELBOW_LR_90, AT_ELBOW_RED_90, and AT_ELBOW_SR_90.

4. Click OK.
5. Click Modify Constraint and add the CATALOG column.
6. Set the Constraints as shown:
1/2" – 2 ½” Class 3000# SW CS, A105
90° Elbow
45° Elbow
3" ‐ 36" SCH STD BW CS, A234‐WPB
90° Elbow
90° Reducing Elbow
90° SR Elbow
45° Elbow
7. In the Catalogs column select Ladish.
8. These constraints result in the following records.


Î Exercise 2: Add a TEES section.
2. Name the section TEES and click OK.
Note: Remember to collapse the previous section for easier management.
3. Click Select Classes. From the Base module select AT_TEE and AT_TEE_RED_BRANCH.
4. Click Modify Constraint and add the CATALOG column.
1/2" – 2 ½” Class 3000# SW CS, A105
Tee
3" ‐ 24" SCH 40 BW CS, A234‐WPB
Tee
Reducing Tee
30” – 36” SCH 20 BW CS, A234‐WPB
Tee
Reducing Tee
6. Reduce the number of selections for the ½” – 2 ½” size by setting the Catalog constraint
to Ladish.
These constraints result in the records as shown.

Note: Additional filtering can be done by adding the BRAN_SIZE Constraint to filter tee branch sizes.


Î Exercise 3: Add a FLANGE section
2. Name the section FLANGES. Click OK.
3. Click Select Classes and set to:
AT_FLANGE_BLD, AT_FLANGE_LAP, AT_FLANGE_ORF, AT_FLANGE_RED,
AT_FLANGE_REDSLIP, AT_FLANGE_SLP, AT_FLANGE_SW, AT_FLANGE_THD,
AT_FLANGE_WNK, AT_FLANGE_ORF and AT_STUB_END_LJ.
4. Click Modify Constraint. Add the FACING_1,CATALOG and END_COND_2 column and
remove END_COND_1, SCHEDULE columns.
1/2" ‐ 2 1/2" Class 150# RF SW CS, A105

3" ‐ 24" Class 150# RF SO CS, A105 Note: Select AT_FLANGE_SLP as

CLASS_NAME
3" ‐ 24" Class 150# RF WN CS, A105 Note: Select AT_FLANGE_WNKas

CLASS_NAME.
½” ‐ 24” Blind Flange Class 150# RF CS, A105 Note: Select AT_FLANGE_BLD as

CLASS_NAME
1” ‐ 2 ½” Orifice Flange Class 600# RF SW CS, A105 Note: Select AT_FLANGE_ORF as

CLASS_NAME
6. To further reduce the number of selections, add the CATALOG constraints to all rows
except 600# rating.


Your result should show a total of 57 total records.

Î Exercise 4: Add a FASTENER section.
2. Name the section FASTENERS. Click OK.
3. Click Select Classes and set to: AT_BOLT, AT_GASKET, and AT_LUG_BOLT.
4. Click Modify Constraint. Add COMP_LEN and CATALOG columns and remove
SCHEDULE, END_COND_1 and MAT_GRADE.
GASKETS
1/2” ‐ 24” Class 150# Grafoil Ghe 1/8” Thk
1/2” ‐ 24” Class 300# Grafoil Ghe 1/8” Thk
BOLTS
1/2" ‐ 24" Bolts A193‐B16 w/2 A194‐2H NUTS
6. Set the gaskets COMP_LEN to 1/8” (or 0.125).

7. Set catalog column as shown below.

8. Your resulting count should resemble those shown.
You can further clean up your spec by removing unwanted constraint columns and adding
addition filters to reduce the number of selections.


Reporting Functions
Reporting Functions
Once a specification is built, reports are generated using the Microsoft Access Report Writer
functionality.
Standard pre‐formatted reports are provided for you. Spec reports are stored in the
SPECGEN‐REPORTS.MDB. This is a Microsoft Access database, which is located in the
..\REPORTS sub‐directory of your AutoPLANT installation.
You will need to open the database and use the Report Writer to modify or add a report.
It is beyond the scope of this class to teach all the methods for creating an Access report, so
for this exercise you will learn how to modify a report by replacing the Bentley logo on an
existing report.
Î Exercise 1: Create a report from the pre‐defined list.
1. If you have not built the spec since your last changes, build it now.
Select Spec > Build Spec > Build Entire Spec.
Note: You can rebuild the entire spec or only the changes since your last build.
2. Select Spec > Report Print / Preview.

3. Select a report and then click Preview.


Reporting Functions
The report will look similar to the one shown.

Note: If you did not build the spec before selecting a report, it will be built automatically before
generating the preview.
4. When finished, click OK to close the preview window.


Reporting Functions
Î Exercise 2: Modify a spec report
1. Open c:\Program Files\Bentley \Plant V8I \ Reports \ Specgen‐Reports.mdb in
Microsoft Access.
2. Ensure the reports tab or object is selected.

5. Right‐click on the Select Detail by Size report, right‐click and Design View from the
context menu.
The report will be opened in the Design View as shown below.

6. Click on the Bentley logo and click Delete.
7. Insert your company logo or other picture using the Insert > Picture function in MS
Access.

Reporting Functions
8. Browse and select the picture you want to use and click OK.
9. Use the grip nodes to move and size the picture.
10. Close the Design View by the X in the upper right. Click Yes to save the changes.
11. Double‐click on the report to enable preview mode.
12. Close the preview when finished.
13. Exit Microsoft Access.
14. Verify that this report runs with your changes inside of SpecGen.

Optional Exercises
To complete the specification for use in a production environment, you will need to add
items such as: couplings, unions, caps, plugs, reducers, swages, laterals, crosses and possibly
other classes of fittings.
Finishing these classes is left to the discretion of the student.


Adding Material to Specs
In this exercise you will learn how to add or remove materials from your spec.
Î Exercise 1: Add Material to spec
1. Launch Microsoft Access.
2. Browse to and select the SpecGen folder located in your project
%PROJECT_ROOT%\SpecGen\ and open the SpecGen‐Settings.mdb file.
3. Locate and open the Materials table.

The Materials table holds the material callouts for the project. Materials are categorized
into spec groups (Spec_Group) including: Pipe,Fastener, Fitting, Misc, Olet, and Valve.
Like materials will need to be added for each group.


To add a material
4. Highlight a similar type material that has the same SPEC_GROUP.
5. Right click and select Copy.
6. Scroll down below the last entry in the table, highlight the last row, right click and select
Paste.
Shown below is the copy of ASTM A53 PIPE material.

7. Update the MAT_GRADE field to ASTM A106 GRADE B.
8. Assign a new unique ID.


9. Remove the description from this field.
Note: At this time it is not necessary to complete the MAT_DESCRIPTION field.
10. Close the file.
11. If prompted, Save the file.
To use the new material in your spec, a refresh of the spec is required.
12. Select Spec > Refresh Spec.


Field Manager
Field Manager
The Field Manager can be accessed in two ways: by clicking the Advanced button in the
Modify Constraints dialog within a Spec Section or by SpecGen menu selection Spec > Field
Manager.
The Description Fields tab in the Field Manager dialog controls the use of Description Fields
in a spec. The Description Fields tab shows the list of text fields available in the catalogs
referenced by the spec. Once fields are enabled, the Description Builder can be used to
define custom descriptions for these fields. Fields previously identified as description fields
can also be restored to their default state.
Î Exercise 1: Add the new field to be used by the Description Builder
1. Select Spec > Default Description Builder from the Spec generator menu.
From the dialog you will notice only two fields are available.

2. Click OK to close the Field window.
3. Select Spec > Field Manager to see the Description Fields tab and check the
SHORT_DESC field.

Field Manager

4. Click the Exit button and select the Spec > Default Description Builder command again.
Now you will see three Description Fields available for editing.

Lookup Fields and Lookup Editor
The Lookup Fields tab in the Field Manager dialog controls the use of available lookup
fields.

These fields are specified using the Lookup Editor.

Back in the Field Manager dialog, if you enable the Selected option, the lookup value
selected in the constraints grid can be used in the Description Builder but the value in
the catalog would not be written to the spec.

If you also enable the Write To Spec option, any value selected in the grid will be written out
to the spec when it is built.
Î Exercise 2: Enable a lookup table for the MATERIAL field
1. Open the PIPE section of your spec called My_New_Spec.mdb.
2. Click the Modify Constraints button and add MATERIAL to selected fields.
3. Click the OK button and place a mouse pointer in the MATERIAL field and click the pull
down arrow. No values are available for selection.
4. Click the Modify Constraints button again and click the Advanced button.
5. In the Field Manager dialog window select the Lookup Fields tab and check for
MATERIAL the Selected field.
6. Click the Apply button and the Exit button to leave Field Manager and then click the OK
button to leave the Modify Constraints – PIPE window.
7. Place a mouse pointer in the MATERIAL field and click the arrow to see available
materials.
LookUp Editor
The LookUp Editor can be accessed in two ways: by menu selection File > LookUp Editor or
from the Lookup Fields tab of the Field Manager by clicking the Lookup Editor button.
Since some record fields in specifications can only be filled with pre‐defined types of
information (or with a set of preferred inputs), the program presents these options to the
user inside a list.
When the user places the cursor inside a cell for editing, a selection list can be displayed for
selection if there is one available. Codes which are transferred into a field, along with the
description that appears in the selection list, are taken from lookup tables managed by the
Lookup Editor.
Î Exercise 1: Add Love Controls into the Manufacturer lookup table
1. Select File > LookUp Editor to open the LookUp Editor dialog.
In the upper left corner there is the list of available LookUp tables and in the bottom
section there is list of items which are available in the selected LookUp table (in our case
Components).
In the upper right corner there is list of catalog fields mapped to the selected LookUp
Table.
2. Select the Materials LookUp table click the + button at the bottom left corner.


3. Type LC in the Code field and Love Controls in the Description field.
To map the Manufacturer LookUp table also to the CATALOG field, click Add Field
button and select CATALOG from the list of the catalog fields.
4. Click OK to add also CATALOG to Mapped Fields.
As we do not need to have the CATALOG field assigned to the Manufacturer LookUp
table for next exercises we can remove it from the list of mapped fields by clicking the
Remove Field button.
5. Click the Close button.
Note: To make the Manufacturer LookUp table available for your selection, you have to enable it – see
Exercise 2 in the Field Manager section.


Adding Data for Multi Grade Components
In this exercise you will learn how to modify the spec and catalogs to allow for the
placement of multi‐schedule components.
Î Exercise 1: To modify the spec
1. If Specification Generator is not open, start it now. Select All Programs > Bentley >
Plant > SpecGen > Specification Generator from the Windows Start menu of from the
desktop icon.
2. Select your project and open My_New_Spec.

3. Add a new section called REDUCERS.

4. For Class Name select AT_REDUCER_ECC and AT_REDUCER_CON.
Note: User the Search button to find the Class Names if necessary.


5. Complete the REDUCERS section using the data as shown.

For multigrade items you will need to duplicate one of the rows that will bridge the
reduced sizes that are in a different schedule. You will use 26” to 36” reducers (Sch 20)
that reduce to 18” to 24” (Sch 40).
6. Right click on the 26” to 36” reducers and select Duplicate Row from the context list.
7. Add the additional constraint Run_Size to the new line.
This field is used to select the size for the reduced end. You will be assigning a new field
called Run_Sched to accompany this so that we can assign the optional schedule.


8. In the Run_Size field, from the drop down, select … and check sizes 18 through 24. The
number of matching components should drop.

9. Right click on the row and select Description Builder.
10. Edit the Long Description as shown below and click preview.

As you can see the schedule does not report the change in schedule on the reducing
components. In order to report this correctly we will need to add additional fields to
the catalog to accompany the run_size and allow you to modify the long description to
reflect the additional field.


11. Preview the spec section and note the catalog being used.

12. From File > Open > Catalog open the Ansi‐Asme catalog.
13. To open the Edit Database Schema dialog, select Edit > Edit Database Schema...
The dialog lists the tables currently in the catalog.
14. Select the REDUCER table from the list.

15. Click New Field to define the field for the schedule of the run_size connection.
16. Complete New Field properties as follows.


17. Select OK.
18. Check to see that your new field has been added to the database structure.

19. Exit the Catalog Editor.
When you exit you will be prompted to update the spec due to the catalog change.

20. Select YES to refresh the spec.
21. Add the new field to the constraints by clicking the Modify Constraint button.


22. In the dialog, select RUN_SCHED from the Available Fields and move to the Selected
Fields.

To populate the RUN_SCH field we need to add the field to the Schedule in the Lookup
Editor.
23. Select the Advanced button in the bottom left corner to launch the Field Manager
interface.
24. Select Lookup Fields tab.


25. Click Lookup Editor.

26. Select Schedules under the Lookup Tables pane.
27. Select Add Field. v

28. Select RUN_SCHED from the pull down menu.

29. Click Close.


The Lookup Editor dialog will close and display the selected Lookup Fields.
30. Check Selected and Write to Spec boxes in the Field Manager dialog.

31. Click Apply.
You will now have the Run Schedules available in the constraints field.
32. Exit the dialog.
33. Add schedule 40 to the Run_Sched field.


34. Right click the field and select Description Builder.
35. Change the default description to include Run_Sched as shown below.

This process can be used to add additional fields your catalogs.
One use may be to include a part number or order code field allowing you to export the
order code to a procurement or purchase order package.


Adding Customized Graphics to the Specification
Although the application provides a library of graphics which will represent standard
component and valve types, from time to time companies will be required to modify the
graphics from a standard component as a custom symbol. To accommodate this task, an
additional field is provided in the specification.
Î Exercise: Adding custom symbols to the catalog
1. Locate the modules.ini file in the Project root.

2. Edit the modules.ini file so the symbol search path for the appropriate module is looking
to the location you will be storing your custom symbol.
SYMBOL_SEARCH_PATH=%Project_Root%\Modules\Base\%APP_DIR%\symbol
3. Select All Programs > Bentley > Plant > SpecGen > Specification Generator .
4. Open the project. For this exercise you will use the Sample Imperial project.


5. Open the existing spec called My_New_Spec.mdb.

6. Expand the Gate Valves section and preview the row that includes 10” Gate valves,
using a right click on the row and selecting Preview.
You will notice that the Catalog field for the 10” flanged valves is BonneyForged.

7. File > Open >Catalog and select the Bonney Forged catalog to modify.

8. Select the ValveFL table when the catalog opens


9. When the flanged valve table opens, build a filter as shown below to reduce your
selection set.

10. Click Apply to produce your result.

11. To add the new symbol name to the Symbol_3D column, in the table, right click, select
Edit Selected Field.


12. Enter the name as shown.

13. Close the Catalog Editor and refresh the spec.

14. Build the spec, select Spec > Build Spec.
15. Review the change you made to the Bonney Forge catalog by opening the catalog once
again.


16. Copy 150_10_GATE_FLG.dwg to the Project Root .

17. Test your modifications in an AutoPLANT project.


Module Review
Module Review
Questions
1. Filters are applied when you select a component during the modeling session.
True
False
2. The Long Description for a component can be modified to include any free form text.
True
False
3. You can easily modify how a Piece Mark will be displayed.
True
False
4. The OLET section in your spec must contain all types of OLETs such as Weldolets,
Sockolets, Sweepolots, etc.
True
False
5. Reports are created using the Microsoft Access Report Writer.
True
False

Module Review
Answers
1. False: Filters are applied to the spec to remove unwanted components, before the
model is created.
2. True: The Long Description is created using Description Builder functions. You can select
the record fields that contain the data you wish to be included in the description and
also add your own static text, to further define the component.
3. True: Piece Marks contain descriptive information. It is easy to modify how a Piece Mark
is defined by editing to ensure the desired values appear on a shop drawing.
4. False: When you first define the constraints, such as size and rating, your record count
includes all types of OLETS. You can further define the type of OLET by using a right‐click
in the Class_Name field and checking only those types you want to include for selection
in the spec.
5. True: The application, when installed includes a variety of predefined reports created in
Microsoft Access. Once you become familiar with the report templates, and you are
skilled in using Access you can further modify a report to suit your preferences.

Module Review
Summary
Now you able to:
Remove unwanted sizes from a spec section.
Customize the Long Description value in the spec.
Create a meaningful Piece Mark.
Add elbow, tee and flange fittings to the spec
Create and modify the spec report.
Add new materials to a spec.



AutoBend, AutoBranch, and
AutoMate Tables
Overview
The AutoFit function in AutoPLANT enables the user to automate the task of placing fittings
on intelligent centerlines. Intelligence from the intersecting lines is used to determine the
type of fitting to place. These fittings are then selected from the appropriate tables such as
the AutoBend or AutoBranch table. To enable the automatic placement of specific fittings,
the user can easily modify the tables in the spec.
Similar to the AutoFit function, the AutoMate function enables the user to specify the
automatic placement of mating flanges or other connecting components in the model. In
this instance the AutoMate table can be modified to only place specific connections.
These utilities, when use efficiently promotes placement speed and model accuracy.
Prerequisites
Objectives
Learn how to set the AutoBend table to automatically place the desired fittings at each
bend of a centerline.
Learn how to set the AutoBranch table to automatically place the desired branching
components.
Learn how to set the AutoMate table to automatically place the desired mating flange.

Feb‐10 101 AutoBend, AutoBranch, and AutoMate Tables

Questions
True
False

2. You can easily modify how a Piece Mark will be displayed.
True
False

Answers
also add your own static text, to further define the component. This ability enables you
to create descriptions that better suit your needs.

2. True: Piece Marks contain descriptive information. It is easy to modify how a Piece Mark
is defined to include useful information that may appear on a shop drawing.
AutoBend, AutoBranch, and AutoMate Tables 102 Feb‐10

Configuring Tables for Automatic Placement
In the following exercises you will learn how to configure a table to automatically place the
desired fittings at each bend of a centerline in an AutoPLANT drawing.
AutoBend Table
When modeling in AutoPLANT, you can draw a centerline to define the piping path.
Typically, you would then manually place fittings at each bend of the centerline.
The AutoBend table is used to automate which fittings are automatically placed on each
bend.
Î Exercise 1: Configure the AutoBend table to automatically place fittings
1. Add a third line to the Elbows section spec as shown below.

2. Select Spec > Auto Bend.
Specification Generator will first build the spec to ensure you have the latest fittings
before allowing you to continue.
3. The table appears enabling you to select the items you wish to place automatically.
For example, if you want to use a 90 LR Elbow for 8” angles, enable the check box in the
Base 90° Long Radius Elbow row under 8”.
Right‐clicking anywhere over the check boxes provides a context menu to enable or
disable all of the check boxes at one time.

If you close and then reopen the dialog, the system will automatically disable any
unavailable items. You can then review the settings and disable any additional
unwanted items with a right‐click, and select Check All.
4. Edit your Auto Bend settings to match those shown in the figure, and click OK.

5. Click OK to close the dialog and save the settings.
6. Now reselect Spec > Auto Bend.
Notice that items that were not available in your spec have been removed.
Note: At this time you cannot change the angle ranges from the Auto Bend dialog. Contact Bentley
Support on details regarding how to change this.

Now that you have created the AutoBend table:
90‐degree Long‐Radius elbows will be placed for sizes ¼" to 18”, 32” and 34” lines for
angles of 45.1 to 92 degrees.
90‐degree Short‐Radius elbows will be placed for sizes 24”, 26”, 30” and 36” lines for
angles 45.1 to 92 degrees.
Reducing elbows will be placed when the centerline has two different sizes. The
reducing elbow will place for sizes 3” to 4” and 8” to 24”.
45‐degree Long‐Radius elbows will be placed for all sizes when the angle is 22.6 to 46
degrees.
Note: For angles in the 45.1 to 46 degree range, the software will prompt for which elbow the user
wants to use.

AutoBranch Table
Similar to the AutoBend table, the AutoBranch table is used for intersecting centerlines. It
determines if a Tee, a reducing Tee, or some form of Olet should be used.
Î Exercise 2: Configure the AutoBranch Table
1. To open the Branch Table dialog select Spec > Branch Editor.
Specification Generator will calculate which items to use and display them in the dialog.
The Header Size is displayed across the top of the Branch Table dialog, while the Branch
Size is displayed along the left side. Each grid point may have a code for the assigned
branch component.
For example, in the figure below a 36” header with a 1/2” branch would use a WOL
(Weldolet), while a 2” header with a 1/2” branch would use a LOL (Latrolet).
Note: “S” items are Stub in’s. The system assigns this value when no other option is available.

The WOL, LOL, and all other codes are defined using the Branch Code Editor.


2. Click Branch Code Editor to display the dialog shown below.
Expanding a node will display the class assigned to that code.

3. Click Cancel to close the dialog.
For this example, you will want to use weldolets whenever possible. Fittings generally
cost more than welders when building a plant.
4. Select the 36” x 16” gridpoint.
5. From the drop‐down list, select WOL to change RT to WOL.
6. Changing each setting individually would be a tedious operation. To make bulk changes,
you can use the following technique.
Right‐click on any WOL and then select Copy from the context menu.
Highlight the whole grid. It does not matter if you get blank areas. Right‐click again
and select Paste. The software will change a grid item to WOL if and only if a WOL is
available in that size.


7. Realizing now that WOL is not desired to replace straight Tees, turn the non‐reducing
gridpoints back to T. Your grid should look similar to the one shown below.

8. If you enable the Filter button in the lower left corner of the dialog, only these items will
remain in the spec.
If you disable this check box, all of the selections will remain in the spec, but the
automatic placement is set to the selected item.
9. In this instance, disable the Filter button, and click OK.
This may take a while to complete as the branch table updates.


AutoMate Table
The AutoMate table is used when a flanged component (e.g., gate valve) is inserted in an
AutoPLANT drawing. In most modeling situations, two flanges are placed on either side of
the valve. In an effort to automate the valve‐flange‐flange placement, the AutoMate table
can be configured to automatically place the mating flanges.
1. Open the Auto Mate dialog, select Spec > AutoMate.
Note: The spec may rebuild before opening the dialog.
2. Configure the table to use socketweld flanges (SW FLG) for sizes under 2‐1/2, and
Weldneck flanges (WN FLG) for all flanges 3” and above.

Note: Remember that you can multi‐select and use the right‐click context menu to apply these
Testing the Spec
Now would be an appropriate time to load AutoPLANT PIPING and test out the new spec.
Build the spec one more time and then follow the instructor's directions to test your new
spec in AutoPLANT.

Module Review
Module Review
Questions
1. You can set your piping application to automatically place the correct fitting.
True
False

2. The AutoBranch table is used for creating the intersecting lines of a pipe run.
True
False

3. The AutoMate table is used when placing flanges on either side of a valve.
True
False


Summary
Answers
1. True: Once you draw a centerline that defines the piping path you can configure the
AutoBend table to automatically place the correct fittings at each bend in the pipe run.

2. False: The AutoBranch table is not used for creating the pipe run. It is used for
determining which fitting should be placed at the intersecting pipe runs. Properly
configured will place the components as indicated by the setting you have selected.

3. True: By configuring the table to choose the specific class of fitting to use, you can
automate the modeling process.

Summary
Set the AutoBend table to automatically place the desired fittings at each bend of a
centerline.
Set the AutoBranch table to automatically place the desired branching components.
Set the AutoMate table to automatically place the desired mating flange.



Creating & Modifying Catalogs
Overview
So far, this course has been concentrating on how to create a spec from catalog data. Focus
will now shift to discuss the management of catalog data.
In this module the student learns to utilize the spec sheet interface to create and modify
catalogs and freeform specs.
For example, there may be situations where you need to add a record to a catalog, or
perhaps you simply want to sort through the catalog and examine existing item details
before adding them to a spec.

Prerequisites
Objectives
Learn how to create a new catalog.
Learn how to create and use filters.
Learn how to add new records to a spec.
Learn how to add fields to a catalog.
Feb‐10 111 Creating & Modifying Catalogs

Questions
1. The AutoPLANT Piping application is delivered with component catalogs used for
component placement.
True
False
2. Sample specs are installed with the AutoPLANT application.
True
False
3. Catalogs cannot be modified.
True
False

Answers
1. False: While Catalogs contain thousands of component descriptions in the form of
Microsoft Access database files, these tables are used for building specs to be used on a
project. When “manufacturer‐specific” specs are created for a project, the component
selection process becomes more efficient.
2. True: Sample Specs are delivered with the application to help you get started on a
project. One example is the Carbon Steel spec based on 150lb American Standard
Institute.
3. False: Although catalogs, delivered with the application are generally used to build
specifications, catalogs can also be modified. A user can add new fields to an existing
catalog, or to build a new catalog to conform to company standards.
Creating & Modifying Catalogs 112 Feb‐10

Creating a New Catalog
You can edit an existing catalog with the Specification Generator, but in this exercise you
will learn how to create a new catalog.
Importing the Data
Î Exercise 1: Create a new catalog with imported tables
1. If the Spec Generator is not open, start it now. Select All Programs > Bentley > Plant >
SpecGen > Specification Generator from the Windows Start menu.
2. Create a new catalog, select File > New.

3. Enable the Catalog button, and click OK.
4. Name the catalog My_Catalog.
5. You will be prompted to add the Catalog Tables. Click Yes.

6. The Catalog Editor dialog displays.
At this point, the catalog is new, and therefore has no component records. You will start
by adding large pipe.

7. To open the Edit Database Schema dialog, select Edit > Edit Database Schema.
The dialog lists the tables currently in the spec.

You could use the Add New Table button to manually define the PIPE table.
Instead, you will copy the PIPE table from the ANSI‐ASME catalog.
8. Click Import Table.
9. Select the ANSI‐ASME catalog and click Open.

The Select Tables to Import dialog displays.

10. Press and hold down the Ctrl key and select the PIPE and the VALVFL tables.
In this exercise, you want to include the data and add these selected tables to
CatalogTable.
11. Check Import with Data and Add to Catalog Tables boxes and click OK.
You are including this data because it is easier to create new records if there is an
existing record to mimic. You will erase most of these imported items.
12. The Edit Database Schema dialog appears as shown. Click Close to return to the main
catalog editor interface.

13. Open the PIPE table by selecting PIPE from the Tables drop‐down list.
A table with pipe and nipple records will display.

Filtering the Catalog
When you delete records, it may be difficult to determine if you have selected all the
records you want to delete. To make this easier, the Catalog Editor provides filtering tools.
Since you only want to copy schedule 20 pipe to a larger size you will erase all other records,
starting with the nipples.
Î Exercise 2: Delete all of the nipple records from the Pipe table
1. Click Build Filter to open the Filter Builder dialog.
2. Highlight SHORT_DESC. The String Criteria field becomes enabled. Select Nipple.
3. Select the + button in the Modify Filter section.
4. Click Apply.

5. Right‐click anywhere within the record grid, and choose Select All Records from the
context menu displayed.
6. Right‐click again to display the context menu, and then choose Delete Record.
7. You will be prompted to confirm the deletion. Click Yes.


Î Exercise 3: Create a new filter for Schedule 20.
You still have a lot of pipe records in the catalog. You will start by creating a filter so that
only pipe records whose SCHEDULE field value is 20 are displayed, making it easier to select
a specific record to copy.
2. Name the filter. Type SCH20 in the Select/Save Filter field, and click Save.
Note: Remove the filter created previously by selecting it in the Filter window and pressing the ‐ button.
3. To create a filter that will only include pipe records whose SCHEDULE field value is 20,
select SCHEDULE from the Select a Field list, and then select 20 from the Like drop‐down
list.
4. Press the + button in the Modify Filter area to add this definition to the Filter text field
as shown below.

5. Click Save to save the filter definition.

6. Press Apply to close the dialog and filter the PIPE table so that only SCHEDULE = 20 pipe
records are displayed as shown.

Notice that there is no 42” Schedule 20 pipe record in the table. You will add this record
by copying a size 30 pipe.
7. Select the 30” record, and select Edit > Copy.
8. Select Edit > Paste to add the record to the bottom of the grid.
At the bottom of the grid will be a copy of the 30" record. Update the record by
changing the values of the fields shown in the following table using the drop‐down lists
provided in each field.
FIELD VALUE
COMP_INDX PIP………….42
PIECE_MARK PIP42
MAIN_SIZE 42
PIPE_OD 42
PIPE_ID 41.25
WEIGHT_DRY 209


Î Exercise 4: Build a filter to exclude 42” Schedule 20 pipe.
2. Name the filter. Type Not42Sch20 in the Select/Save Filter field, and click Save.
Note: Remember to remove the SCH20 Filter from the Filter window.
3. Highlight SCHEDULE. The String Criteria field becomes enabled. Select 20.
4. Check the Not field and select the + button in the Modify Filter section.

5. Click Save and Apply.
6. Right‐click anywhere within the record grid, and choose Select All Records from the
context menu displayed. Right‐click again to display the context menu, and then choose
Delete Record.
7. Select ALL from the Filter drop‐down list.
8. Select and delete all of the records displayed in the grid (Edit > Delete) except for the
42" pipe that we copied and edited earlier.
9. Close the Catalog Editor from File > Exit.


Î Exercise 5: Repair SYS_ID for a new catalog component 42” Schedule 20 pipe in the
PIPE table.
1. Click the Preview Spec button in the PIPE section and locate the SYS_ID column for a
new 42” dia pipe.
You should see a much shorter value. This happens automatically when the Copy and
Paste commands are used to create a new component in a catalog.

2. Select File > Repair SYS IDs command and click the Add button to add the catalog
My_Catalog.mdb.

3. Click the Start Repair button to repair SYS_IDs.
4. Click the Preview Spec button in the PIPE section again. You will notice that all SYS_ID
values are repaired.


Adding New Records to the Spec
Adding New Records to the Spec
Now we will to add the new catalog created in the previous exercise to the new spec you
have created.
Î Exercise 1: Add the new catalog to My_New_Spec.mdb
1. If My_New_Spec is not open, open it now by selecting File > Open.
2. Disable the Expert Mode check box for the PIPE section.
3. Update the Max_Size to include 42” dia pipe.
4. Add this new catalog to the spec, choose Catalog > Select Catalogs.
Notice that the record count for pipe in the 30” to 42” range now shows 6 records since
the 42" pipe record from the new catalog is now included.
Before adding the new catalog:

After adding the new catalog:
Additional Exercise
Use the techniques described in this chapter to add 30” RF Blind and Weldneck flanges to
the new catalog, and therefore to the spec.

Adding Fields to a Catalog
Adding Fields to a Catalog
This exercise teaches you how to add a new field to the catalog and propagate this field with
data. In some instances, you may need to track additional component fields in your catalogs
and specs. Therefore you will also learn how adding a new field to a catalog automatically
makes the data available to any spec that uses the catalog.
Î Exercise 1: Add a new field called Costcode to your catalog
1. In the Catalog Editor select File > Open.
2. Select My_Catalog from the list.
3. Select Edit > Edit Database Schema, to open the dialog.
4. To add a new field, select the PIPE table and then click New Field.
5. Enter the definition for the new COSTCODE field as shown below to create the field as a
20 character long text field.

6. Repeat this procedure for VALVFL table in the new catalog.
7. Click Close to close the Edit Database Schema dialog.
8. Select PIPE from the Table drop‐down list, and then in the Catalog Editor grid enter a
value for the COSTCODE field.
9. Repeat for all items in the catalog.
When you rebuild the spec, the COSTCODE will be added for records created from the
new catalog.
Note: If it is more convenient, you can add fields and define field values in MS‐ACCESS. Your instructor
can demonstrate this procedure.


Module Review
Module Review
Questions
1. Creating new Catalogs enables you to clearly specify which components will be used to
create a spec.
2. New catalogs are created by selecting Tables from existing catalogs.
True
False
3. Filters are created to select and remove unwanted components in a spec.
True
False

Summary
Answers
1. True: The ability to easily create a new catalog will reduce the number of unwanted
components to choose from when building a spec for a project.

2. True: An easy method to create a new Catalog is to copy an existing Catalog and
modifying the tables. Or creating a Catalog to contain tables from multiple catalogs.

3. True: By using the Filter Builder utility, complex queries can be created to select and
then delete and modify the component records in a catalog.
Summary
Create a new catalog.
Create and use filters.
Add new records to a spec.
Add fields to a catalog.



Course Summary
Review
You have now completed this course and learned how to create custom specs from catalogs
of components installed with the application.
Questions
1. Component catalogs delivered with AutoPLANT have thousands of components ready
for the user to pick from.
True
False
2. Specifications can be created from one catalog.
True
False
3. Specs are created using the Specification Generator application.
True
False
4. By selecting a sample project when you build a spec, you can automatically define the
project paths and unit information.
True
False
5. All Header information is automatically generated whenever you create a new spec.
True
False
6. When you Preview a spec, you can easily view all component details.
True
False
Feb‐10 125 Course Summary

Review
7. By applying constraints, you reduce the number of records included in the spec.
True
False
8. Filters are applied when you select a component during the modeling session.
True
False
True
False
10. It is impossible to remove unwanted types of OLETs from the spec section.. This section
must contain all types of Weldolets, Sockolets, Sweepolots, etc.?
True
False
11. You can easily set your piping application to automatically place the correct fitting.
True
False
12. The AutoBranch table is used for creating the intersecting lines of a pipe run.
True
False
13. The AutoMate table is used when placing flanges on either side of a valve.
True
False
14. Creating new Catalogs enables you to clearly specify which components will be used to
create a spec.
True
False
15. New catalogs are created by selecting Tables from existing catalogs.
True
False
16. Filters are created to select and remove unwanted components.
True
False
Course Summary 126 Feb‐10

Review
Answers
1. True: Component catalogs are used for building spec from which the user can select
from. Components in a model are NOT selected directly from a catalog. Sample specs
are included in the install that will help to get the user started.
2. True: If the catalog contains all the components required to complete the model, then a
spec could be created from one Catalog, but in most cases multiple vendor catalogs are
required to supply all of the fittings and sizes required for a specific project.
3. True: Specs are subsets of Catalog data. Thousands of components are installed when
you install the Catalogs. You can build a spec using the Specgen application.
4. True: If you select a Imperial sample project, the specs that you define all use the
Imperial standard of measurements. The appropriate catalogs are listed for selection.
Also the spec will be saved to the correct location, ready for a project.
5. False: Header information defined for the spec, contains both automatically generated
information as well as information manually entered by the creator. This information
provides details such as who created the spec, when it was last modified, and the
services applicable.
6. True: When you select the Preview button, a listing of the resulting records for the
constraints you have defined appears. All component details for a specific record are
shown by selecting a record and right clicking to display a dialog containing all
description and dimensional data, including a graphic image of the component.
7. True: When you define the sizes and ratings for specific components, such as Butterfly
Valves, you can further reduce the total number of records by selecting specific
catalogs. Other constraints such as the Schedule or Material Grade will further define
your list.
8. False: Filters are applied to the spec to remove unwanted components, before the spec
is used during model creation.
also add your own static text, to further define the component.
10. False: When you first define the constraints, such as size and rating, your record count
includes all types of OLETS. You can further define the type of OLET by using a right‐click
in the Class_Name field and checking only those types you want to include for selection
in the spec.
11. True: Once you draw a centerline that defines the piping path you can configure the
AutoBend table to automatically place the correct fittings at each bend in the pipe run.
12. False: The AutoBranch table is not used for creating the pipe run. It is used for
determining which fitting should be placed at the intersecting pipe runs. Properly
configured will place the components as indicated by the setting you have selected.
Feb‐10 127 Course Summary

Review
13. True: By configuring the table to choose the specific class of fitting to use, you can
automate the modeling process.
14. True: The ability to easily create a new catalog will reduce the number of unwanted
components to choose from when building a spec for a project.
15. True: An easy method to create a new Catalog is to copy an existing Catalog and
modifying the tables. Or you can create a new Catalog to contain tables from multiple
existing catalogs.
16. True: By using the Filter Builder utility, complex queries can be created to select and
then delete and modify the component records in a catalog.

Course Summary 128 Feb‐10


Appendix A
This section is not intended to be included in a scheduled training course. It is provided for
the convenience for the existing user who wishes to use an existing specification generated
with an older version of AutoPLANT software.
Converting V2.0 Specs to V8i
When you install a new version of the software you may be required to convert your
existing specs to be compatible. Although your existing specs will continue to function in
AutoPLANT 2004 and V8i Edition, you will not be able to configure the AutoFit, AutoMate
and AutoBend tables to utilize the Auto functions that are available in the V8i version.
Also, the older specs will need to be upgraded before they can be edited using the SpecGen
V8i interface.
Specs created from previous versions of AutoPLANT can be updated using the Spec Upgrade
wizard. This exercise teaches you how to add support for the Auto functions available in V8i.
Before you begin, you will need to have completed a set of Auto‐ tables that can be copied.
Î Exercise: Steps for upgrading a v2.0 spec
1. Start the Spec Generator application, select Bentley > Plant V8i> SpecGen >
Specification Generator.
2. Open a version 2.0 spec. Select File > Open. The following error dialog displays
indicating that you must run the upgrade wizard on this spec before opening it in the
application.

3. Click Yes to run the wizard.
Feb‐10 129 Appendix A

4. Login to the project that will use this specification.. The Welcome dialog will display as
shown below.
5. Click Next to continue.
6. The Select Specs to Upgrade dialog displays. This dialog lists the specs that will be
converted. You can use the Add button to upgrade additional specs. In this exercise, you
will only upgrade FlangeSpec.mdb.
7. Click Next to continue.

8. The Select Destination Directory dialog displays. This dialog enables you to specify the
destination directory for the upgraded specification.
Appendix A 130 Feb‐10

9. Use the Browse button to navigate and select the desired destination directory

To edit the spec after it is upgraded, you must indicate the catalogs used to build the
spec. When you open the spec after the upgrade, each section row indicates the catalog
and respective filter used to build the spec. If you do not specify the catalogs, then the
catalog field and filter will be blank. Selecting catalogs without a defined filter would
add all records of that section type to the spec, which is not what you want.
10. The View and Select Catalogs button displays the following dialog, which enables you to
select the catalogs used by the spec.
11. Click Add to navigate and select custom catalogs that are not listed, or select a catalog
and click Remove to delete a catalog from the list used by this spec.
12. Click OK when you are done.

13. Accept the catalogs as shown and click OK to close the dialog.

14. Click Next > to continue.
15. The Select Fields dialog displays.
This dialog enables you to select the fields to use to match data between the selected
specs and catalogs in order to eliminate duplicated data and to ignore certain fields that
do not affect the basic properties of a component.

16. Accept the default settings in this dialog and click Next > to continue.
17. The Ready to Upgrade dialog displays.
This dialog enables you to verify that all of the conversion information is correct before
the upgrade starts. If you want to modify any information, use the < Back buttons.
18. When you are satisfied with the information click Next.

The wizard will now upgrade the select spec.

19. Once the conversion is complete, the details will display in a dialog.
This information is saved in a file called REPORT.TXT, which can be found in the
..\SpecGen directory.

20. When you are finished reviewing the log information, click Finish to close the wizard.
21. SpecGen will open the new spec as shown below:

Note: All the components in the old spec are classified into Spec Groups based on the Spec_Group
defined for their classes in the CLASS.INI. Classes that do not belong to any Spec Group are added
to the Miscellaneous group.
22. Re‐build the new spec. The resulting spec will contain all the data from the old spec and
can be updated using the Specification Generator V8I Edition interface.



Appendix B
SpecGen Data Fields
This list contains only those items that are in every SpecGen table (unless otherwise noted).
Field Name AutoPLANT Component Use
MEAS_UNITS This field is used to set the unit values; “IM” for imperial, “ME” for metric, “MM” for mixed
metric, and “DN” for DIN. (Mixed metric specs have the main size in imperial units and all other
dimensional data in metric units. DIN specs have the main size in metric millimeters, but other
measurements could be in meters.) The subdirectory (IMPERIAL, METRIC, MMETRIC, or DIN) for
the resulting SpecGen catalog and spec must match the field meas_units.
MAIN_SIZE Cannot be empty. The main size field is generally the nominal size of a component but is also
used as the large size for reducing fittings or valves, and the header size for tees, etc.
RUN_SIZE “True OD” for the appropriate run nominal diameter. The run size of a component is generally
the smaller size of a reducer, for instance. (The RUN_SIZE field is not present in all SpecGen
tables.)
BRAN_SIZE “True OD” for the appropriate branch nominal diameter. The branch size of a component
generally refers to the branch of a tee or cross, for instance. (The BRAN_SIZE field is not present
in all SpecGen tables.)
GTYPE Cannot be empty. This is the parent class designation of a component class and sometimes
referred to as the “General Type”. Use the SpecGen popup table to set the appropriate class.
STYPE This field refers to the child class designation of a component class and referred to as the “Sub
Type”. For instance, some child classes of valves are gate, check, ball, plug, etc. Use the SpecGen
popup table to apply the appropriate designation.
END_COND_1 Leave empty or pick an appropriate value from SpecGen popup table END_COND.DBF. For
flanges use “FL”, for other components use “SCF”, “SWF”, “FL”, and “BW” for types threaded,
socketwelded, flanged, and welded, respectively, etc.
END_COND_2 For flanges use “SCF” for threaded, “SWF” for socketwelded, or “BW” for weld neck and “SOF” for
slip‐on or the appropriate end type for all other components, otherwise leave empty. If this field
is empty then AutoPLANT will use the END_COND_1 field to set the end type of the second port
and the remaining component ports, if any.
END_COND_3 See END_COND_2 above.
FACING_1 Use this field for flanges or flanged components only. Use the lookup tables to assign the
appropriate facing type.
Feb‐10 135 Appendix B

SpecGen Data Fields
FACING_2 If this field is empty then AutoPLANT will use the FACING_1 field to set the facing type of the
second port and the remaining component ports, if any.
FACING_3 See FACING_2 above.
TRIM_1 Use this field to input the valve trim information.
TRIM_2 If this field is empty then AutoPLANT will use the TRIM_1 field to set the trim type of the second
port and the remaining component ports, if any.
TRIM_3 See TRIM _2 above.
SCHEDULE Leave this field empty for flanges or pick an appropriate value from SpecGen popup table
SCHEDULE. Currently AutoPLANT will only use one or the other in generating the BOM report.
RATING Generally this field is only applied to flanges and valves except in the case of small bore
components, which may be assigned ratings. Leave this field empty or pick an appropriate value
from SpecGen popup table RATING.
MATERIAL A single value as chosen by the user for each invocation.
MANU_FACT This field contains a three character abbreviation of the component’s manufacturer.
OPTIONCODE This is a SpecGen field used to designate a component as a default spec item. This field is either
blank or set to one (1). The number one (1) being the default spec flag. This means that if the
user has selected the default spec item flag in the component properties dialog box, then
AutoPLANT will look for the spec default item of each subsequently placed component.
LONG_DESC This SpecGen component description field is eighty (80) characters long. The user may enter the
appropriate description for each component.
SHORT_DESC This SpecGen component description field is twenty (20) characters long. The user may enter the
appropriate description for each component.
WEIGHT_DRY Enter the components weight in this field.
REV Currently this field is always set to “0.0”.
SYS_ID Cannot be empty. Unique SpecGen identifier assigned automatically at component generation
time. Do not try to edit this field.
SORT_CODE SpecGen non‐valve tables and the values used, respectively are; BOLT=16, CROSSES=15,
ELBOW=4, FAB_FIT=13, FLANGE=2, FLGJOINT=0, GASKET=8, GEN_COMP=‐1, MISC_FIT=5,
MTUBE=13, NOZZLE=18, OLET=7, OPERATOR=18, ORIFICE=12, PIPE=16, REDUCER=6, SPACER=13,
STRAINER=13, SWAGE=5, and TEE=6. Values used in the eight SpecGen valve tables are: 12 for
VALVBW and VLVCNTBW; 9 for VALVFL, VLVCNTFL, and VLVRELFL; and 16 for VALVSCSW,
VLVCNTSC, and VLVRELSC.
SHOP_FLD Set to ‐1.00 for SpecGen table GEN_COMP. Set to 2.00 for SpecGen tables FLGJOINT, GASKET,
MTUBE, SPACER, STRAINER, VALVBW, VALVFL, VALVSCSW, VLVCNTFL, and VLVCNTSC. Otherwise,
the value is set to 1.00.
PIECE_MARK This field uses a different FoxPro user function for each table to automatically compose this value,
typically using values from fields GTYPE, STYPE, MAIN_SIZE, and RED_1. This function is not
under user control.
Appendix B 136 Feb‐10

SpecGen Data Fields
ALT_P_MARK This field is generally blank in all the spec tables.
CATALOG This field is used to input the catalog manufacturer name used to compile the component data.
TAG This field is used to input the catalog figure number used to compile the component data.
PIPE_OD_M “True OD” for the appropriate main nominal diameter
PIPE_OD_R “True OD” for the components run (smaller in the case of reducers, etc.) nominal diameter
THD_ENG_M If END_COND_1 is “SCF” or “SCM then enter the appropriate value based on the components
size, type etc., otherwise leave empty. (Field THD_END_M is not present in all SpecGen tables.)
SKT_DPTH_M If END_COND_1 is “SWF” or “SWM”, then enter the appropriate value based on the components
size, type etc., otherwise leave empty. (The SKT_DTPH_M field is not present in all SpecGen
tables.)
THD_ENG_R If END_COND_2 or END_COND_3 are “SCF” or “SCM then enter the appropriate value based on
the components size, type etc., otherwise leave empty. (The THD_END_R field is not present in
all SpecGen tables.)
SKT_DPTH_R If END_COND_2 or END_COND_3 are “SWF” or “SWM”, then enter the appropriate value based
on the components size, type etc., otherwise leave empty. (The SKT_DTPH_R field is not present
in all SpecGen tables.)
OFF_SET “True OD” for the appropriate main nominal diameter
COMP_INDX This is a component id which is used for component identification. This is generated by
concatenating the values of the following fields:
Catalog =
GTYPE;STYPE;MAIN_SIZE;RUN_SIZE;BRAN_SIZE;END_COND_1;END_COND_2;END_COND_3;FACIN
G_1;FACING_2;FACING_3;TRIM_1;TRIM_2;TRIM_3;SCHEDULE;RATING;MATERIAL;MANU_FACT;"
Spec =
"GTYPE;STYPE;MAIN_SIZE;RUN_SIZE;BRAN_SIZE;END_COND_1;END_COND_2;END_COND_3;MAT
ERIAL;OPTIONCODE;"
MAT_GRADE This field specifies the grade of the material. The Material field specifies the material specification
for the component and the Mat_Grade field specifies the grade for the material.
AUDIT The value of this field is set to 0 when a new record is added to the catalog. This means that the
component has not been checked or tested as yet. Once the component is tested by the testing
department this value is set to 1.
MODULE_NAME This field specifies the Module which the component belongs to. This is generated by SpecGen
and is based on the GTYPE and STYPE of the component.
CLASS_NAME This field specifies the Class which the component belongs to. This is generated by SpecGen and is
based on the GTYPE and STYPE of the component.
NOTES Generally this field is left blank. The user can add notes against the component using this field.
Feb‐10 137 Appendix B

SpecGen Data Fields

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Appendix B 138 Feb‐10


Appendix C
Common Industry Acronyms
As a piping facility becomes more complex, drawings become more detailed. To alleviate
crowding on a drawing and reduce space requirements for callouts and notes, abbreviated
terms are used. The following is an alphabetical listing of many common abbreviations
found on piping arrangement drawings, flow diagrams and isometrics.
A complete listing would be impossible to assemble because engineering companies often
have the own abbreviations that are particular to specific situations.
A C
A Alarm
CB Catch Basin
A Anchor
CHKV Check Valve
ACCUM Accumulator
Ch. Op. Chain Operator
AL Aluminum
CI Cast Iron
ANSI American National Standards Institute
CL Clearance
API American Petroleum Institute
CO Clean Out
ASSY Assembly
COL Column
ASTM American Society for Testing and
COLS Columns
Materials
CONC Condensate
ATMOS Atmosphere
CONN Connection
AUX Auxiliary
CORR Corrosion
AZ Asimuth
CPLG Coupling
CS Carbon Steel
Cast Steel
B Cold Spring
B Beveled CSC Car Seal Closed
BB Bolted Bonnet CSO Care Seal Open
BBE Bevel Both Ends CTRLV Control Valve
BBL Barrel(s) CWR Cooling Water Return
BC Bolt Circle CWS Cooling Water Supply
BD Blow Down
BE Beveled End(s)
BF Blind Flange D
BL Battery Limits DA Directional Anchor
BLDG Building DF Drain Funnel
BLE Bevel Large End DIA Diameter
BOM Bill of Materials DIM Dimension
BOP Bottom of Pipe DISCH Discharge
B&S Bell and Spigot DR Drain
BSE Bevel Small End DW Dummy Weld
BTY British Thermal Unit DWG Drawing
BV Ball Valve DRWN Drawn
BW Buttweld
Feb‐10 Appendix C
E I
E East IA Instrument Air
ECC Eccentric Insulation (anti sweat)
ELL Elbow IC Insulation (cold)
ELEV Elevation ID Inside Diameter
EQUIP Equipment IDD Inside Depth of Dish
ERW Electric Resistance Welded IET Electric Trace
EXCH Exchanger IGT Glycol Trace
EXIST Existing IH Insulation (heat conservation)
IN Inch(es)
INS Insulate or Insulation
F INST Instrument(ation)
INV Invert Elevation
FA Flow Alarm
IPS Iron Pipe Size
FBO Furnished By Others
IS Insulation Safety
FDN Foundation
ISA Instrumentation Society of America
FE Flow Element
ISO International Organization for Standardization
F/F Face-to-Face
Isometric
FF Flat Face
IST Steam Trace
Full Face
FI Flow Indicator
FIC Flow Indicator Controller
FIG Figure J
FLR Floor JCT Junction
FLD FAB Field Fabricate JS Jack Screw
FLG Flange JT Joint
FOB Flat On Bottom
FOT Flat On Top
FR Field Support L
Forged Steel
L Level
FT Foot or Feet
LA Level Alarm
FW Field Weld
LAH Level Alarm-High
LAL Level Alarm-Low
LBS Pounds
G LC Level Controller
GA Gauge or gage Lock Closed
GAL Gallon(s) LG Level Gauge
GALV Galvanized Level Glass
GPH Gallons Per Hour LI Level Indicator
GPM Gallons per Minute LIC Level Indicating Controller
GR Grade LLL Low Level Liquid
GaV Gate Valve LN Line
GIV Globe Valve LO Lock Open
LP Low Pressure
LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas
H LPT Low Point
LR Level Recorder
HCV Hand Control Valve
Long Radius
HDR Header
LRC Level Recording Controller
HIC Hand Indicating Controller
LS Level Switch
HLL High Liquid Level
HOR Horizontal
HP High Pressure
HPFS High Point Finished Surface
HPP High Point Paving
HR Hanger Rod
Hour
HTR Heater
HVAC Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning
HVY Heavy
HYD Hydralic
Feb‐10 Appendix C
M P
mm millimeter PA Pipe Anchor
M Meter Pressure Alarm
M&F Male and Female PC Pressure Controller
MATL Material PCV Pressure Control Valve
MAX Maximum PdRC Pressure Differential Recording Controller
MECH Mechanical PE Plain End
MFG Manufacturing PI Point of Intersection
MFR Manufacturer Pressure Indicator
MI Malleable Iron PIC Pressure Indicator Controller
MIN Minimum P&ID Piping and Instrument Diagram
Minute PLE Plain Large End
MISC Miscellaneous PO Pump Out
MK Piece Mark POE Plain One End
MW Manway POS Positive
Miter Weld PP Personnel Protection
PR Pressure Recorder
PRC Pressure Recording Controller
N PS Pipe Support
PSE Plain Small End
N North
PSI Pounds per Square Inch
NC Normally Closed
PSIA Pounds per Square Inch
NEC National Electric Code
PSIG Pounds per Square Inch Gage
NEG Negative
PSV Pressure Safety Valve
NIP Nipple
PT Point
NLL Normal Liquid Level
NO Normally Open
Number
NOM Nominal Q
NOZZ Nozzle QTY Quantity
NPS Nominal Pipe Size QUAD Quadrant
NPSH Net Positive Suction Head Quadruple
NPT National Pipe Thread
R
O R Radius
OAL Overall Length REC’D Received
OD Outside Diameter RED Reducer
OH Open Hearth REF Reference
OPP Opposite REINF Reinforce
OS&Y Outside Screw and Yoke REQ’D Required
OVHD Overhead REV Reverse
OWS Oily Water Sewer Revision
RF Raised Face
RJ Ring Type Joint
RPM Rotations Per Minute
RS Rising Stem
RTJ Ring Type Joint
Appendix C Feb‐10
S U
S South UA Utility Air
SC Sample Connection US Utility Station
SCH Schedule
SCRD Screwed
SECT Section V
ST (SHT) Sheet
VA Valve
SMLS Seamless
Vent to Atmosphere
SO Slip On
VB Vortex Breaker
Steam Out
VC Vitrified Clay
SOL Sockolet
VERT Vertical
SP Set Point
VF Vent to Flare
SP GR Specific Gravity
VOL Volume
SPEC Specification
VS Vent to Stack
SQ Square
SR Short Radius
STD Standard
STL Steel W
STM Steam w/ with
SUCT Suction W West
SUPT Support WB Welded Bonnet
SW Socketweld WE Weld End
SWG Swage WLD Weld
SWP Standard Working Pressure WN Weld Neck
SYS System WOG Water, Oil, Gas
WOL Weldolet
T WT Weight
T Steam Trap
TA Temperature Alarm
Tan Tangent X
TBE Thread Both Ends XH Extra Heavy
TC Temperature Controller XS Extra Strong
TCV Temperature Control Valve XXH Double Extra Heavy
TE Threaded End XXS Double Extra Strong
TEMP Temperature
T&C Thread and Coupled
T&G Tongue and Groove
THRD Thread
TI Temperature Indicator
TIC Temperature Indicating Controller
TLE Thread Large End
TOC Top of Concrete
TOG Top of Grout
TOL Threadolet
TOS Top of Steel
TR Temperature Recorder
TRC Temperature Recording Controller
TSE Thread Small End
T/T Tangent to Tangent
TW Temperature Well
Thermowell
Feb‐10 Appendix C

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Copyright © 2010 Bentley Systems Incorporated

Table of Contents ii Feb‐10

Feb‐10 iii Table of Contents

AutoPlant Specifications 10 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 11 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 12 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 13 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 14 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 15 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 16 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 17 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 18 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 19 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 20 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 21 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 22 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 23 AutoPlant Specifications

AutoPlant Specifications 24 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 25 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 26 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 27 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 28 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 29 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 30 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 31 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 32 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 33 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 34 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 35 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 36 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 37 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 38 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 39 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 40 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 41 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 42 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 43 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 44 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 45 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 46 Feb‐10

1" ‐ 1 ½ " RELIEF VALVE, 150LB, RF, CS

Feb‐10 47 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 48 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 49 Generating Specs

Generating Specs 50 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 51 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 52 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 53 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 54 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 55 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 56 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 57 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 58 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 59 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 60 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 61 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 62 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 63 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 64 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 65 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 66 Feb‐10

Feb‐10 67 Advanced Techniques

Advanced Techniques 68 Feb‐10