Catalog Keywords and Values

You need to add keywords and values for some parts to the catalog to enable certain behavior. The process for adding keywords and values is explained in Creating a Catalog. A list of keywords and values is given below. They should be entered exactly as they are shown below.

The keyword PlaceAndStretch allows parts to bridge the gap between two dissimilar ends, such as a round and square run, or different sized pathways. It has no values.

The keyword LoadType affects how a part should be loaded into memory from the catalog. If the keyword is not added then its values is assumed to be NewReference, which is explained below.

LoadType has two values. SameReference means the part is always an exact copy of the catalog part. None of the parameters of the placed part should ever be changed.  NewReference means the part has parameters that can be changed, and so new copies of the part will made as needed.

The keyword PlacementType

FreeSpaceOnly -- part can only be placed in free space.

Equipment -- same as FreeSpaceOnly.

Stretchable -- part is placed on straight segments in a run and stretches to fill available space. This keyword is necessary to make a stretchable place correctly. When using the multiplace (shift) option, stretchables will place on all open portions of straight segments.

Bendable -- part is placed on runs and fills available space, including going around corners (bends). This keyword is necessary to make a bendable place correctly. When using the multiplace (shift) option, bendables will place on all open portions of the run.

Inline -- part is normally placed on a run straight segment (e.g. a valve). Can also be placed on ends of parts and runs.

Reducer -- part is used to change size or shape. Usually placed on the node between two connected, colinear or parallel runs of different size or shape. Reducers can also be placed in the middle of segments and at the ends of runs and parts.

Turn -- part is usually placed at a corner (e.g. an elbow). It can also be placed at the ends of runs and parts. When using the multiplace (shift) option, turns will place on all open corners of a run.

Branch -- part is usually placed at the intersection of two straight segments, where the end of one segment intersects the middle of the other. Branches can also be placed at the ends of runs or parts, on straight segments, at corners and at intersections of the ends of no more than three segments. When using the multiplace (shift) option, branches will place on all intersections on a run that have exactly three pathways.

Cross -- part is usually placed at any intersection containing four pathways (e.g. four end segments, or two end segments meeting in the middle of another segment). Can also be placed on the ends of runs and parts, on straight segments or at corners. When using the multiplace (shift) option, crosses will place on all intersections on a run that have exactly four pathways.

Complex branch -- part can be placed anywhere a cross can, plus at intersection with more than four connections.

Offset -- part that connects runs that are offset from one another. It can be placed at the ends of parts or runs.

Terminus -- part placed at the end of a run or part (e.g. a cap).

Coupler -- small connecting part, such as a gasket or flange. It can be placed on part ends.

Support -- part used to support other parts, such as hangers. It can be placed in the middle of segments, or on the ends of parts and runs.

Strengthener -- part used to strengthen or stiffen. It can be placed in the middle of segments.

Nozzle -- part used to connect equipment to fluidic part (e.g. pipe). It can be placed on the ends of parts.