Migrating AutoPLANT Models to Plant 3D 2024

[JVS_YYCMRDK8]

We have a lot of AutoPLANT 3D projects with multiple clients. Since AutoPLANT is retiring at the end of 2024, we are looking for a way to migrate AP Models to Plant 3D 2024. AutoPLANT only has an object enabler for AutoCAD 2020. I found a way to migrate the AP 3D models to P3D. These are the steps I am using:

1. XREF the AP model into Plant 3D 2019, then bind and explode it.

2. Copy the DWG into Plant 3D 2024. I am able to see the AP objects.

The issue I am having is that I can not connect even a line to the model. For example, when I try to draw a line from the center of a flange, I am unable to pick any points on the flange. I thought maybe I need to convert to a AutoCAD solid, but that still doesn't work. I also tried to WBLOCK the AP objects, but when inserted into P3D, most of the components are missing. 

As of right now, we do have the AP objects in Plant 3D. This might be enough for the clients. Just to be able to see the existing components. I was hoping to find a way in case they want to tie-into the components somehow. Does anyone have a an idea on how I can get this to work. Maybe there is a better way, than what I am doing, to get the AP models into P3D

Thanks,

[Tomislav.Golubovic · Accepted solution]

I've done this before with Smartplant. We got the PCF exports from Smartplant then imported the PCF into Plant3D which made it P3D items. You will need to recreate the spec though in P3D from AutoPlant. So if you can get PCF exported from AutoPlant, you can them import those to P3D as P3D pipe, elbows, flanges etc. There might be a little rework here and there but you should get most of it in.

[JVS_YYCMRDK8]

Thank you very much for the reply. I will test this method. I will update the post with my results.

[JVS_YYCMRDK8]

I did some tests with this and it works great. I use the PCF to Pipe tool of P3D. The components came in and I was able to connect to them with no issues. The only thing is the AutoPLANT specs have to be converted to Plant 3D prior to import. It will prompt you saying it couldn't find the spec. You have the option of mapping the missing spec with existing Plant 3D specs. 

Thanks again for your help. 

[Michiel.Valcke]

Don't forget that there's a convert option in the Spec Editor to convert your specs and catalogs. In the settings you can map properties and geometry.

MichielValcke_0-1708675018293.png

[JVS_YYCMRDK8]

Yes, I did convert the specs prior to the PCF import. I was prompted that it couldn't find the specs, so I just mapped them to the newly converted specs. I was even able to run an ISO on the imported components. So that's great. 

[salman_abeed]

there are paid products that do the conversions as well... are you looking to do it yourself or want to use paid services?

[JVS_YYCMRDK8]

We will just use the PCF method. It works great and we don't have to pay any extra for other applications to do basically the same thing. 

[K_Bande]

1 month before we are using 2019 plant 3D. But we move to 2024 version, WE migrate our library, but during modeling we face problem, we are not able to give our output, please help us.

[JVS_YYCMRDK8]

I am revisiting this topic as I have additional questions. I successfully converted some AutoPLANT specifications to Plant 3D, achieving a 100% conversion rate. Following this, I imported several PCF files from the AutoPLANT project. The PCF import process successfully connected to the converted specifications. However, I have encountered a couple of issues:

1. Missing Components: Many components do not import with the PCF file, and Plant 3D substitutes some parts with generic ones. This is confusing because, despite achieving a 100% conversion of the specifications to Plant 3D, the components seem to be missing from the spec.

2. Connection Issues: I am unable to connect to the imported components. When attempting to add a component, it does not connect to the port. Although I can click the “+” symbol to add additional components to the existing setup, I cannot connect items from the spec.

Does anyone have any insights to what I could try next with this? I have attached a couple PCF files and my spec if anyone can have a look to see if anything is wrong.

[salman_abeed]

Though I have not a solution for you but looking into this... I have few questions though from you to clarify a few things

1) AutoPlant to Plant3D spec mapping is based on sysid or just based on component type, specname and size ?

2) How you are generating PCF or AutoPLANT as PCF option is no more there in AutoPLANT.

3) Supports and Equipment won't come via PCF files .. how you will import them?