AutoCAD plant 3D

P&ID software

Create P&IDs and 3D models with the Plant 3D toolset included with AutoCAD.

Chemical plant

What is P&ID?

P&ID, or a Piping and Instrumentation Diagram, is a detailed drawing or schematic primarily utilised in the industrial process industry to illustrate the interconnection between piping, equipment and the instrumentation devices used to control plant processes.

Interior view of a modern wastewater treatment plant

What is P&ID used for?

P&IDs are used to help design the layout of engineering process systems. The graphical diagrams include important information for installation or the systems included and provide detailed specifications outlining operational schemes and procedures.P&IDs are also used for systems modification and maintenance.

P&ID in AutoCAD

Learn the workflow of how to design a P&ID drawing with Plant 3D.

Discover the main International Standards for P&ID drawings.

Dive into documentation, tutorials, videos, and troubleshooting resources.

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FAQs on P&ID

Learn more about P&ID software with these commonly asked questions.

What does P&ID stand for?

P&ID stands for Piping and Instrumentation Diagram and utilises a standard set of symbols to illustrate process systems flow for design, development, and operation.

Who uses P&ID?

P&IDs are typically developed by process design engineers for industrial processes (physical, electrical, or mechanical) for product manufacturing. Piping and instrumentation engineers follow the schematics to plan and develop plant build-out and coordinate with construction teams for installation. Process operators will also use the P&ID schematics for safety, training and operation.

Can AutoCAD software be used for P&ID?

P&IDs are typically developed by process design engineers for industrial processes (physical, electrical, or mechanical) for product manufacturing. Piping and instrumentation engineers follow the schematics to plan and develop plant build-out and coordinate with construction teams for installation. Process operators will also use the P&ID schematics for safety, training and operation. Yes, AutoCAD includes the Plant 3D toolset using industry-standard symbol libraries, drafting tools for quick P&ID schematics, and data validation to help identify potential errors in the design. AutoCAD also includes 3D modelling features to create rapid plant modeling in 3D.

What is AutoCAD Plant 3D used for?

AutoCAD Plant 3D is a toolset that is included with AutoCAD and is used to create and edit both P&ID and 3D plant models.

Is Plant 3D toolset included in AutoCAD?

Yes, all subscriptions of AutoCAD include the Plant 3D toolset. Learn more about Plant 3D toolset features.

How much does AutoCAD Plant 3D cost?

AutoCAD Plant 3D is included with your AutoCAD subscription. If you have infrequent users and are interested in a pay-as-you-go option, learn more about flex options.

What is the difference between P&ID and PFD?

A PFD is a process flow diagram which is a more general illustration of plant process flow between the major equipment in a plant. A P&ID is a more detailed schematic to show all the equipment, piping, instrumentation, and connexions at a plant.

What does a P&ID include?

A P&ID typically includes the following components:

  • Mechanical equipment and machinery
  • Lines and process piping
  • Piping fitting specifications
  • Other piping requirements (slope, special insulation, distance requirements, etc)
  • Manual and automated piping valves
  • Safety Values Drains and vents
  • Instruments and control devices Interconnections (OPC)
  • Notes and additional information

What standardised P&ID symbols and shapes does Plant 3D support?

All of the major industry-standard symbol libraries are available in Plant 3D including PIP, ISA, ISO/DIN, and JIS. Learn more.

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