DESIGN WITH INTENT
June 10, 2009

To design with intent, make your piping isometrics reflect your intentions. You can do this by conveying the things that do not ordinarily show up on piping isometrics dropped from a model. Convey the trouble spots and landmarks that will help the contractor get the overall picture. By allowing out of the box computer programs to define our deliverables, we limit the communications that enable our clients and contractors to see what we see.

For instance, showing where newly routed pipe comes within inches of existing steel or pipe leaves no doubt about your intentions as to where the new pipe is to be routed. It aids the pipe fitter in visualizing the new routing. Also, showing landmarks such as existing steel, and platforms etc., lend confidence to the project and again aids the pipe fitter in getting the big picture. Showing these items results in less confusion, fewer delays and fewer confrontations between the design team and the contractor. Usually, when pipe fitters know the designers intentions, they will make it happen.

Here is a short list of items that should be shown on piping isometrics.

  • Existing pipe running parallel or adjacent to new pipe
  • Existing steel columns
  • Near misses- existing pipe or structure within inches of new pipe
  • Conduit running close to new pipe.
  • Anchor the pipe with dimensions to an existing column or piece of equip on at least one end of the isometric.
  • Platforms
  • Penetrations through floors and platforms.

Cheers,
R. Van Hudson