You can export the following Smart 3D model data to Plant Design Management System (PDMS):
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Equipment
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Piping
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HVAC
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Hangers and Supports
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Electrical
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Structure
The export to PDMS process involves transferring Smart 3D objects and their attribute values to a PDMS .datal file format. For information
supported object types, see Learn about the Smart 3D objects you can export to PDMS.
You must have a Smart 3D to PDMS Exporter license key installed on the SmartPlant License server to use the export to PDMS
functionality.
What points should I consider before exporting to PDMS?
When you export Smart 3D model data to PDMS, consider the key points listed below. For more information about
recommended workflows regarding design and data exchange between Smart 3D and PDMS, including step-by-step examples, see Best Practices.
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Follow the recommended naming conventions when modeling in Smart 3D:
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Create a unique name for each modeled object so that no duplicates exist.
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Make sure object names contain no spaces.
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Make sure object names do not exceed 50 characters.
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During export, if the software encounters a name that does not meet one of these conventions,
it modifies the name before writing it to the DATAL file, resulting in mismatched
object names between the two models.
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If an object name in Smart 3D contains a space, the software replaces the space with an underscore (_) character
in PDMS.
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We recommend that you clear all To Do List messages before starting the export process.
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Include first level objects when exporting Smart 3D model data to PDMS: Equipment, Pipeline, Duct Run, Cableway/Cable tray/Conduit run,
Member systems/Root plate system, and Support assembly.
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Export Smart 3D model data by discipline. Doing so reduces DATAL file size and assists in identifying
and resolving export issues.
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Export model data using the following sequence of supported object types: Equipment,
Piping, HVAC, Electrical, Structure, Hangers and Supports.
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Verify that the catalog component orientation in PDMS is correct before importing
the DATAL file.
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When exporting Smart 3D model data, you must create equivalent UDETs (User Defined Element Types) with relationships
before importing the hierarchy DATAL file into PDMS. For more information, see Hierarchy Translation Maps.
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Set Tolerance values (in the PDMS Piping Consistency Check options) to maximum before importing the DATAL files. Doing so helps resolve issues
related to port misalignment and sloped piping.
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Review the log file after each Smart 3D export for any errors or warnings.
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Review the log file generated during model data import to PDMS for any errors or warnings.
Export to PDMS workflow
The diagram below shows the recommend workflow for transferring model data from Smart 3D to PDMS. This workflow includes the steps you must take to get PDMS ready to receive
model data from Smart 3D.
Click a box in the diagram to go to the associated how-to topic.
What do you want to do?