How to Make a Pipe Structure in SOLIDWORKS

Creating a "pipe structure" in SOLIDWORKS can refer to different tasks: either building a complete piping system within an assembly or preparing an individual pipe part ready for use in such a system. Based on the provided reference, we will focus on the latter: creating a specific type of pipe or tube part designed for use with SOLIDWORKS' routing functionalities.

Creating a Pipe Part for SOLIDWORKS Routing

To create an individual pipe or tube part that is recognized and usable within SOLIDWORKS Routing for building pipe structures, you need to follow specific steps to prepare the part file correctly.

The key is to create the necessary 3D geometry and add special configuration-specific properties that the Routing add-in looks for.

Here are the essential steps based on the reference:

1. Create the Base Part Geometry

   Start by creating a standard SOLIDWORKS part file. Design the 3D geometry of your pipe or tube. This usually involves creating a sketch of the cross-section (a circle or annulus) and extruding it, or using a sweep feature if the shape is more complex.

2. Add the $PRP@Pipe Identifier Property

   This is a crucial step for Routing. You must add a custom property named $PRP@Pipe Identifier to the configurations of your part. This property helps the Routing add-in identify the part as a routable pipe or tube component. The value of this property typically defines the size or identifier of the pipe (e.g., "2 inch SCH 40").

3. Add the $PRP@Specification Property (Optional)

   You can optionally add another configuration-specific custom property called $PRP@Specification. This property is used to define the material standard or specification for the pipe, such as "ASTM A106 Grade B". While optional, it's highly recommended for maintaining detailed information about your components.

4. Insert a Design Table

   Utilize a design table to manage different sizes, schedules, specifications, and other variations of your pipe or tube. A design table allows you to create and control multiple configurations of the part from a single spreadsheet. You will define rows for each configuration and columns for dimensions, features, and importantly, the custom properties like $PRP@Pipe Identifier and $PRP@Specification.

Summary Table for Part Creation:

Step	Description	Key Requirement
Create Geometry	Model the basic shape (cylinder/tube).	Standard SOLIDWORKS part modeling.
Add $PRP@Pipe Identifier	Add a custom property for each configuration.	Property name: $PRP@Pipe Identifier. Must be config-specific.
Add $PRP@Specification (Optional)	Add a custom property for material spec.	Property name: $PRP@Specification. Must be config-specific.
Use Design Table	Manage configurations based on sizes, specs, properties, etc.	Insert > Tables > Design Table. Control configurations and properties.

Reference: Creating a Pipe or Tube Part

Building a Pipe Structure Assembly

While the above steps detail creating the part component, building a complete "pipe structure" or system typically involves using the SOLIDWORKS Routing add-in. This tool allows you to automatically or manually route pipes, add fittings (like elbows, tees, flanges), and create detailed bills of materials within a SOLIDWORKS assembly.

This process utilizes the specially prepared pipe parts (like the one described above) and fitting parts (which also require specific setup, including routing points) to create the complete assembly structure. The Routing add-in automates many tasks, such as trimming pipes to length and adding necessary fittings as you sketch the route path.

However, the detailed process for building a full piping assembly using the Routing add-in is an extensive topic that goes beyond the scope of creating the individual pipe part as described in the provided reference.

By following the steps to create a proper pipe part with the required properties and configurations, you are preparing the fundamental building blocks necessary for efficient piping design using SOLIDWORKS Routing.