Plant 3D Design Course

Lesson 1 • Project Structure and File Management

Defines project hierarchy, file types, and data organisation within the software. Proper file management prevents data loss and supports team collaboration.

Lesson 2 • Coordinate Systems and Navigation

Explains 3D coordinate systems, view orientations, and model navigation techniques. Accurate spatial understanding is essential for all modelling tasks ahead.

Lesson 3 • Software Interface and Workspace Setup

Introduces the 3D design application interface, toolbars, and workspace configuration. Students gain confidence navigating the environment before modelling begins.

Lesson 1 • Linking P&IDs to the 3D Model

Explains how P&ID data is imported or referenced within the 3D environment to drive model content. This connection ensures design consistency between documents.

Lesson 2 • Reading and Interpreting P&IDs

Guides students through systematic P&ID reading, tracing flow paths, and identifying design intent. Accurate interpretation prevents costly 3D modelling errors.

Lesson 3 • P&ID Symbols and Notation

Teaches standard symbols for equipment, instruments, valves, and lines used on P&IDs. Symbol literacy is the prerequisite for all piping modelling work.

Lesson 1 • Modelling Rotating Equipment

Addresses pumps, compressors, and heat exchangers as 3D catalogue or custom objects. Accurate rotating equipment models are critical for piping route planning.

Lesson 2 • Equipment Attributes and Properties

Covers assigning tag numbers, service descriptions, and material properties to equipment objects. Rich attribute data enables accurate material takeoffs and reports.

Lesson 3 • Equipment Specification Data

Explains how to extract dimensions, nozzle schedules, and orientation data from equipment datasheets. Specification-driven modelling ensures accuracy from the start.

Lesson 4 • Equipment Placement and Orientation

Teaches precise placement using coordinates, elevation references, and orientation constraints. Correct placement is the foundation for all downstream piping and structural work.

Lesson 1 • Fittings, Valves, and Inline Components

Teaches insertion of elbows, reducers, flanges, valves, and specialty items from the spec catalogue. Correct component selection ensures constructability and code compliance.

Lesson 2 • Piping Specifications and Line Lists

Explains piping class specifications, pressure-temperature ratings, and line list data. Specification selection governs every component placed in the piping model.

Lesson 3 • Pipe Supports and Hangers

Introduces standard support types, spacing guidelines, and anchor point placement in the model. Support modelling is essential for stress analysis and fabrication planning.

Lesson 4 • Branch Connections and Headers

Addresses tee, weldolet, and reinforced branch connections within the piping model. Proper branch modelling prevents structural weakness and supports stress analysis.

Lesson 1 • Concrete and Civil Elements

Covers modelling of foundations, pits, trenches, and paving within the 3D environment. Civil elements define grade-level constraints for all above-grade design work.

Lesson 2 • Structural Steel Fundamentals

Covers steel section types, member roles, and connection concepts used in plant structures. Understanding structural behaviour informs correct member selection and placement.

Lesson 3 • Modelling Pipe Racks and Sleepers

Teaches creation of pipe rack bents, longitudinal members, and sleeper supports. Pipe racks are the primary routing infrastructure in most plant layouts.

Lesson 4 • Structural and Piping Integration

Explains how structural and piping models are combined and checked for spatial conflicts. Integration at this stage prevents costly rework during detailed design.

Lesson 1 • Clash Detection Principles

Defines hard, soft, and clearance clashes and explains their impact on constructability. Understanding clash types guides prioritisation and resolution strategies.

Lesson 2 • Model Review and Walkthrough

Introduces virtual walkthrough tools, section cuts, and visual review techniques for design validation. Walkthroughs reveal spatial issues that automated tests may miss.

Lesson 3 • Resolving Clashes and Documenting Changes

Covers resolution strategies, design modification workflows, and change documentation practices. Proper documentation maintains design integrity and audit traceability.

Lesson 4 • Reviewing and Managing Clash Results

Teaches navigation of clash reports, grouping of related issues, and assignment to responsible parties. Structured management prevents clashes from being overlooked or duplicated.

Lesson 1 • Structural and Equipment Drawings

Addresses creation of structural arrangement and equipment layout drawings from model views. Accurate structural drawings support fabrication, procurement, and construction teams.

Lesson 2 • Material Takeoff and Reports

Explains generation of material takeoff reports, valve lists, and equipment lists from model data. Accurate reports drive procurement and cost estimation activities.

Lesson 3 • Drawing Quality Control

Covers drawing checking procedures, standard compliance verification, and revision management. Quality control ensures deliverables meet project and client requirements.

Lesson 4 • Plot Plan and General Arrangement Drawings

Covers extraction and annotation of plot plans and GA drawings from the 3D model. These drawings communicate overall plant layout to all project stakeholders.

Lesson 1 • Model Handover and As-Built Documentation

Teaches model handover preparation, as-built update procedures, and digital deliverable packaging. A complete handover enables efficient plant operations and future modifications.

Lesson 2 • Design Change Control

Explains change request processing, model update procedures, and impact assessment methods. Controlled change management protects schedule and budget integrity.

Lesson 3 • Multi-Discipline Coordination

Addresses coordination workflows between piping, structural, civil, and electrical disciplines. Structured coordination reduces rework and accelerates design completion.

Lesson 4 • Constructability and Operability Review

Covers constructability analysis, maintenance access verification, and operability checks in the model. These reviews ensure the plant can be built, operated, and maintained safely.