Given the scope and complexity of projects, the importance of correct design and documentation cannot be overstated in the field of operations and maintenance (O&M), particularly in the oil and gas sector. Whether it’s basic plant engineering, piping design, piping stress analysis, commissioning, review of design and detailed engineering services, or data transfer from facility engineers to the O&M team, advanced software and 3D designs are critical for operational readiness to improve asset data builds for plants. As the industry becomes more digital, the importance of 3D CAD Modeling becomes evident.
With rising worldwide competition, rising costs, and shifting energy prices, there is a strong focus on increasing profitability through leaner projects and faster turnaround times. To gain a competitive advantage, the oil and gas industry has become increasingly reliant on data and technology. Consider the following advantages of 3D modelling in engineering for improving operational efficiency:
Advantages of 3D CAD Modeling:
Simplified & Improved Piping Design
With user-friendly pipe routing, 3D CAD modelling aids in streamlining iterations. The advanced features of 3D CAD software, together with engineering and designed input, produce complete 3D pipelines with proper fittings from drawn paths, as well as supplementary component and connection setup. These programmes enable the validation of component compliance to parameters such as diameter, pressure, and other factors, resulting in extremely accurate pipeline design and process reliability. Smart P&ID allows for the creation of pipe and instrument diagrams based on the process.
Better Visualization & Future Forecasting Capabilities
For major plant design disciplines, 3D CAD modelling software aids productivity gains. It enables owner-operators and engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) firms to visualise the completed plant more clearly and make more informed decisions and forecasts based on data. Clients also have access to many “what-if” scenarios during the design process. Non-CAD and non-design stakeholders can engage in the process by creating virtual models.
Enhances Designer Output
By removing the laborious and arduous aspects of design, 3D CAD modelling makes better use of the designer’s resources. It also allows the designer to see all of the components in 3D during the initial design stage and modify/edit them immediately if necessary. This cuts down on the number of iterations and boosts designer output.
International Codes and Standards Compatibility
The specifications for each standard, such as BSI, ANSI, DIN, CSN, GB, ISO, and others, are integrated in 3D CAD modelling, making compliance with international codes and standards for diverse processes and plant designs much easier.
Better quality deliverables, faster and cheaper time to market
In a harsh and competitive climate, owner-operators and EPC firms are under a lot of pressure to meet global demands. Plant design software has advanced in terms of power, scope, and sophistication, allowing these businesses to produce higher-quality deliverables on a tight timeline and within budget. By advancing original concept layouts into detailed engineering, 3D modelling lowers remodeling between conceptual and detailed design.
Documentation
Engineering 3D modelling improves data management by allowing you to organize and manage your design assets and papers. It allows you to standardize your detailing and drafting techniques, automating your workflow and improving output speed and accuracy. Automatic ISO creation aids in material consumption accuracy as well as procurement and fabrication time efficiency.
Integration
Advanced CAD design software allows you to obtain GA, Layouts, Isometric Drawings, Cable Routing, BOM, Steel and Architectural Drawings, and other documents from a single file. This allows for a more comprehensive perspective of the design and quality across disciplines, as well as tighter control.
From concept through planning, accurate designs, and documentation for review, 3D CAD Engineering makes each stage of design and development easier. There are a variety of advanced plant design and 3D modelling software options available, each with its own set of features tailored to the scope and complexity of projects.
