Component Connections
Plant Engineering > Part Tools > Exchange 
> Component connections
You can use component connections to extend general 3-D parts in such a way that pipelines can be attached to them with the help of the HiCAD module 3-D Plant Engineering.
A component connection consists of a sub-part that contains, as the only graphical object, a named isolated point (the so-called connecting point). Some properties which are to be assigned to this connection are saved with the part in the form of Plant Engineering attributes. These are:
- Connection type
- Pipe class
- Nominal diameter
Pipe class and Nominal diameter can later be applied to the pipeline to be connected. When allocating parts to guidelines automatically, the Connection type determines, amongst other things, the permissible part types (flange or pipe) for the part to be attached to the connecting point.
The following functions are available:
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Insert component connection
Plant Engineering > Part Tools > Exchange > Insert component connection 
First select the part for connection insertion.
The Create new connection dialogue box is displayed.
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Name |
Specifies the name of the sub-part. You can either accept the name suggested by HiCAD or specify another name. |
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Connection type |
Select the required connection type from a list box. |
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Isolated point |
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Select part |
Use this option to select, enter or pick a pipe class and nominal diameter, similar to the Create pipeline function. |
After confirming the entries with OK, you need to determine the position of the connecting point with the crosshairs.
The dialogue box reappears, enabling you to create another connection; a new name and a new number have already been generated. If you do not need any further connections, select Cancel.
Process component connection
Plant Engineering > Part Tools > Exchange > Process component connection 
If you want to process a part connection, call the function and identify the required connection.
As with the Insert connection function, HiCAD displays the Create new connection dialogue box. However, the input fields for the Name and the Number of the connection are blocked here.
Make the required modifications. Click OK to apply the changes or Cancel to reject them.
Delete component connection
Plant Engineering > Part Tools > Exchange > Delete component connection 
Use this function to remove part connections.
Identify the required connection. The associated sub-part will be deleted.
