Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Software to Create Flow Diagrams
(OP)
Any recommendations on basic software to create or modify flow diagrams?
I honestly do not want to learn CAD, either 2D or 3D. I'm a ChE, and we tend to stay away from too much detail.
It would be nice if I could import a DWG, but that's not necessary. I can already export my DWGs to JPG format if I need to.
I would like to be able to take that DWG or JPG, add a few lines, valves, pumps, whatever, and then save that back as a JPG, something I could email to others for final design. The drafting department is much better for detailed drawings. I just want to be able to get my design modification message across, using a somewhat simple diagram.
Thanks,
CJ711
I honestly do not want to learn CAD, either 2D or 3D. I'm a ChE, and we tend to stay away from too much detail.
It would be nice if I could import a DWG, but that's not necessary. I can already export my DWGs to JPG format if I need to.
I would like to be able to take that DWG or JPG, add a few lines, valves, pumps, whatever, and then save that back as a JPG, something I could email to others for final design. The drafting department is much better for detailed drawings. I just want to be able to get my design modification message across, using a somewhat simple diagram.
Thanks,
CJ711





RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Good luck,
Latexman
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
I also have used Excel often to create something from scratch. I've never tried to use it to modify an existing JPG or DWG, but I don't think it would be good at that.
I have also used PowerPoint many times to enhance photos for display, or to add text to them. I guess that "Shapes" could be beneficial to modify an existing JPG process flow or P&ID diagram.
I am pretty much "expert" level with PhotoShop, but it's over-kill for this.
I was hoping there was a nifty package designed specifically for Refinery/ChemPlant Tech support people, or plant design ChE's, to put together a Process Flow diagram, or a modified P&I, quickly.
CJ711
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
David Simpson, PE
MuleShoe Engineering
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"Prejudice" is having an opinion not supported by the preponderance of the data.
"Knowledge" is only found through the accumulation and analysis of data.
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Good on ya,
Goober Dave
Haven't see the forum policies? Do so now: Forum Policies
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Actually, I had given that some thought. In the long run, I do think I'll be more efficient and get the design message across better by using some drawing program.
>> I use Visio.
I think I'll go with Visio. I've used it a small bit before, but I have used other Office products a tremendous amount, and the menus for Visio look very similar to the other Office products. The downside is that I'll need at least Visio Professional (about $400) in order to have the refinery/chem_plant templates and symbols.
Thanks for the comments. Any other brainstorms, please let me know.
CJ711
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
However, you can with vision create small sketches. However, for e.g. manipulation on a scanned drawing or an existing autocad file i dont know.... I think hands would win "hands down"....
Best regards
Morten
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Look also at http://controldraw.blogspot.co.uk/2011/06/how-process-engineers-could-use.html
Francis
www.controldraw.co.uk
www.s88control.blogspot.com
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Excel, visio, Cad, PVElite etc....Go ahead
Regards
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
How about if I want to do both?
I am very good with software, lousy with free-hand. I can work faster, probably more accurately, with good software.
If the end result looks better with software, and does impress others, all the better. Even engineers appreciate the method of delivery of the answer, as opposed to only the answer.
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
I have visio. It will get the job done but not really any faster than ACAD.
I find having both pieces of software makes it hard to run either one because you forget what command goes with each one.
If you get visio the most important tip is hold down the shift key when you draw to make straight lines.
It took me forever to learn that.
Regards
StoneCold
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
Did you look at Controldraw yet?
Francis
www.controldraw.co.uk
www.s88control.blogspot.com
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams
There are some basic versions available free here:
http://www.serif.com/FreeDownloads/
JMW
www.ViscoAnalyser.com
RE: Software to Create Flow Diagrams