CAD-systems for conceptual plant layout and piperouting

At present, conceptual plant layout for chemical plants is mainly based on the knowledge of experienced layout engineers. The design as well as the evaluation and optimization of alternative layouts are not sufficiently supported by currently employed CAD-systems. As part of the research project a system for a conceptual plant layout consisting of the following three main points of emphasis - equipment modeling, layout modeling and pipe routing - has been developed. The positioning of the equipment within the steel structure is calculated using algorithms based on heuristic rules and process requirements. An auto-routing system then works out the pipe routing and assesses the overall construction. Subsequent cycles of optimization lead to a detail optimization of the layout or may devise alternative layouts. The comparison of the pipe layout calculated through auto-routing with an actual construction of a real plant shows a satisfactory agreement.