Dimension Tables

The primary use of dimension tables is to store the dimension parameters of the components, so that the part size information in CADMATIC corresponds to the relevant standards specifications. The dimensions are specified for certain types of Plant Modeller objects, including piping parts, standard components, beams, duct parts, and cable trays. Additionally, dimension tables are used for the following:

• To describe manufacturing processes, such as the parameters of a bending machine, as described in Bending machine dimension tables.

• To list extra materials, such as the bolts and nuts of flanged connections, as described in Flanged connections.

• To define duct profile types.

• To define cross-sections of standard profiles.

Each dimension table describes the parameters of a specific kind of part, and the table can be linked to the geometric GDL model and the isometric drawing symbol of the part. Multiple dimension tables can refer to the same GDL object. In the case of a primitive shape such as a cylinder or cone, the dimension table may simply refer to an internal shape definition.

The information in the dimension tables can be defined manually via the Dimension Table Edit dialog. Alternatively, existing information can be updated using Microsoft Excel as the editor. In the CADMATIC desktop, select Object > Tools > Run DM Tools and then Dimension table Excel tool, and open the dimension table that you want to edit.

Also, catalog parts and their dimension tables can be created via Excel import, as described in Creating catalog parts by import from Excel.