Different geometries when inserting components from the tool palette

In this article you will learn how to handle different geometries when inserting components in Autodesk Plant 3D. You will get to know the default behavior of the software and learn how to place alternative components via the Spec Viewer or the substitution function.

Background and problem description

When inserting a component via the spec tool palette, the displayed geometry may deviate from your expectations. This is due to the default behavior of Autodesk Plant 3D in combination with the settings defined in the pipe class:

  • When a component is inserted from the tool palette, Plant 3D automatically attaches the part prioritized in the pipe class to the mouse cursor.
  • When placing on a pipe, Plant 3D checks whether the corresponding size is available in the pipe class.
  • If there are several variants for a nominal diameter, the prioritized component is always inserted.
  • The geometry can therefore differ depending on the selected nominal diameter.

Note: This behavior is not an error in SuCri, but the normal default behavior of Autodesk Plant 3D.

Step-by-step guide: Inserting alternative components

If you need a different geometry than the preset priority, you have two options:

Option 1: Using the Spec Viewer

  1. Open the Spec Viewer in Plant 3D.
  2. Select the desired pipe class and the corresponding nominal diameter.
  3. In the list, specifically mark the alternative component that is not prioritized as the default.
  4. Click Insert into model.

Result: The exact selected component is placed in the model regardless of the prioritization.

Option 2: Subsequent exchange (substitution)

  1. Select the component already placed in the model with a left click.
  2. Click on the blue arrow (substitution grip) that appears on the component.
  3. From the list of available variants, select the desired component.

Result: The component is replaced by the selected variant, whereby the connection points are retained.

Important notes

  • Standard cases: Use placement directly via the tool palette for a quick workflow.
  • Variants: With several component options within one nominal diameter, always use the Spec Viewer.
  • Adjustments: The blue arrow for substitution is the most efficient way for subsequent changes to the layout.