CADD OPERATIONS & CAPABILITIES

JRME began employing computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) systems in May 1983. The following CADD deliverables constitute a partial list of those available:

Note: Systems denoted with " / " indicate dual capability.

SOFTWARE

JRME chose PDMS (Plant Design Management System) as its central CADD component for piping and structural design. We use AutoCAD for electrical and instrument drawings, as well as for other schematic products. Structural drawings are normally made with AutoCAD; however, JRME uses PDMS for structural drawings on projects with extensive piping, and electrical cable trays, switch racks, control panels, and other electrical and/or instrument equipment are entered into PDMS so that a clasher check can be performed.

• PDMS
• AutoCAD
• Intergraph PDS (Plant Design System)
• Conversion Software
• In-House Software

HARDWARE

The PDMS system is executed on Intel-based workstations running the Windows NT operating system. Tape-drive systems and CD-ROMs are used to archive and transfer project data. AutoCAD workstations utilize an IBM-compatible PC. Production plotting employs an electrostatic plotter. This unit runs PDMS and AutoCAD plots and can use bond or vellum paper. Although mylar plots are also available, normal practice is to create bond plots and have JRME's reproduction department shoot the images onto matted mylar film.

SUPPORT

Each CADD system used by JRME is supported by the system's creator, and we are continually provided with the latest system improvements. We maintain a management information system/data processing department which services the computer systems, and, additionally, each discipline retains an application development specialist who provides tools and techniques to facilitate drawing creation. These specialists are experienced designers who are knowledgeable in the drawing-creation process, as well as in CADD software.

ADVANTAGES

Use of 3D CADD systems tremendously increases JRME's productivity. Savings to customers result from the identification of interference problems in the design office instead of in the fabricator's yard. Information is available immediately after a model is completed, which eliminates delays associated with manual material takeoffs and the time required to produce fabrication isometrics. Use of 2D CADD systems improves the readability and consistency of fabrication and erection documentation. These systems favor the creation of work templates, allowing previous work to be re-used again and again without engendering generational, incremental errors.