OpenPlant Modeler, the 3D modeling software of Bentley Systems' industrial installations, stands out for its ability to keep 3D process diagrams and models perfectly synchronized. This article focuses on this feature: the smart consistency between the P&ID and the 3D model.
What is OpenPlant Modeler?
OpenPlant Modeler makes it possible to quickly create factory 3D models: parametric equipment, piping defined by specifications, HVAC networks, electrical cable paths and metal structures, in an open, intuitive and collaborative environment built on Bentley's iTwin framework.
Designed for industrial projects of all sizes, it is intended for process engineers, pipers and design offices who must deliver reliable 3D models that meet contractual and regulatory requirements.
OpenPlant Modeler covers equipment, piping, HVAC, electricity and structures in the same model.Focus functionality: smart consistency between P&ID and 3D model
In an industrial project, one of the most costly risks comes from a gap between the P&ID and the 3D model built from it. OpenPlant Modeler reads the data directlyOpenPlant PID and the P&IDs provided, then verify that the 3D model meets the contractual and regulatory requirements of the project.
One source of truth, from diagram to model
Rather than manually comparing dozens of plans, the openPlant Modeler workflows ensure continuous consistency between 2D and 3D. Each element in the model remains traceable until it is defined in the P&ID, which significantly limits costly repeats during the construction phase.
Accurate technical data, project after project
Parametric modelling based on technical characteristics guarantees precise designs regardless of the type of project, while supporting PDS, AutoPLANT, PlantSpace catalogues and specifications as well as EN and DIN standards facilitates the recovery of existing data.
To the digital twin
By integrating PlantSight, OpenPlant Modeler allows you to generate a digital twin from the design stage, with workflows based on the components that free distributed teams from the boundaries of simple file work.
The 10 key points of OpenPlant Modeler
| Functionality | Benefit for your projects |
|---|---|
| Parametric modeling of equipment | Fast and consistent design of factory components. |
| Pipes defined by specifications | Automatic compliance with the technical rules of the project. |
| HVAC, electrical and structural networks | All disciplines in a single integrated 3D model. |
| Automatic consistency P&ID / 3D model | Early detection of differences between schema and model. |
| Multi-format support | DGN, DWG, JT, dot clouds and PDF for flexible workflow. |
| Open catalogues and specifications | Compatibility PDS, AutoPLANT, PlantSpace and EN/DIN standards. |
| Cloud collaboration via iTwin | Work online, offline or remotely without breaking. |
| PlantSight Integration | Digital twin generated from the design phase. |
| Workflows based on components | Multi-team collaboration without file lock. |
| Unlimited flexibility | Adapted both to small projects and to very large installations. |
Case of practical use
On a unit-of-process extension, the process team updates the P&ID while the 3D team advances on the model: OpenPlant Modeler allows to continuously check that the two remain aligned, instead of discovering the deviations during the end-of-phase review, when the corrections cost the most.
Why choose OpenPlant Modeler with beCAD?
Reseller, trainer and accredited integrator Bentley Systems, beCAD supports engineering and industrial offices in the deployment ofOpenPlant Modeler : advice on the adapted license, P&ID/3D workflow training and French technical support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does OpenPlant Modeler necessarily require OpenPlant PID?
No, it can also read P&IDs provided by other tools, but the association with OpenPlant PID offers the most complete 2D/3D consistency.
Can OpenPlant Modeler retrieve data from PDS or AutoPLANT?
Yes, it supports PDS, AutoPLANT and PlantSpace pipe catalogues and specifications, as well as EN and DIN standards.
Can we work several on the same model, remotely?
Yes, thanks to cloud collaboration via iTwin and component-based workflows, multiple designers can work simultaneously without the limitations of a file-based system.
Would you like to evaluate OpenPlant Modeler on your own industrial projects or train your teams? Discover the product sheet or contact the beCAD team.
