Co-ordinating Pipework

[doc]

What is your opinion on which method of drawing is quicker...coordinating pipe as you draw or drawing pipe flat just to get it in then going through and coordinating?

[jmerch]

I like to discuss with the other disciplines and set your zones of where everyone will try to run, then get all the content in, then coordinate.  Me personally, I also try to route around where I think HVAC is going to go, etc. as I draw it in so I'm kinda avoiding conflicts as I go...but spending too much time and thought on this could backfire.

To start out the model, I try to get all the sloped piping in first and keep it high (if I can).  Then I let HVAC know that we pretty much can't move that and give them that model so they can somewhat route around as they're drawing.

[mitchr_68]

I follow along same lines as jmerch. Get the gravity feed pipe in and fight a little with the duct guys. I also try to get my mains in on a rack to claim some space and coordinate with other trades as required.

[audiocycle]

Typical draw in 3D with order of precedence is as follows:
1) Plumbing Gravity Piping, Electrical racks of conduit & Lighting (Fire Protection for Upright systems)
2) Duct Mains & Branches
3) Pressure Piping (both HVAC & Plumbing)
4) Fire Protection & Miscellaneous Electrical Conduit

[cadbyken]

Agree with all that have posted.  The zone idea is the best and then people can eaisly denote when they have to go out of their zone.

[tnbndr]

and keep it high (if I can).  

Lately I have found that if the sloped piping is running down a corridor it is better to keep it low. Other trades can go over the top to get into rooms on the sides of the corridor with higher ceilings.
But I am a duct guy, what do I know.

[jmerch]

so far running it high has been the way to go to hit our inverts...gives us enough play too...then there's the "connect to existing" lines that are controlled by existing conditions.

[doc]

All good stuff to try/consider...thanks guys

[welchy78]

I agree with running the plumbing high. I always do my gravity pipe as high as possible; in coordination the other trades know that I'm as high as I can go and can only move it down.

[Zorg]

Always keep gravity dependant stuff as high as possible, it's an undisputable argument when other trades kick up a fuss. "It's shit.. it goes one way" if you want to avoid nasty clashes further into your model, modify the consultants routes as they will usually be the shortest (if they have thought about it at all). I suggest finding a wall to pin them to so you can maintain a sensible and linear route for your pipe and duct. The straighter your duct, pipe and containment, the less expensive it is to install/make and the less likely the site team will question your route intent. This will save you a few dozen phone calls during the lifetime of the site teams presence, I assure you 

Remember, if you're pipework main run goes up and down more than once you need to re-think the run. It's also easier and cheaper to set a duct over or under the pipework. The pipe runs should have no more than 2 levels (per floor) above the datum unless the structure makes it other wise. This excludes plantrooms of course  A well coordinated pipework run will vent/drain only at the units, once at the main & the riser.

[lsm_drafter]

It's also easier and cheaper for the plumber to set a duct over or under the pipework.

FTFY 

[Tstright]

Remember, if you're pipework main run goes up and down more than once you need to re-think the run.

Really?

[cgb]

Remember, if you're pipework main run goes up and down more than once you need to re-think the run.

Really?

The buildings I have been working on are so tight that site orders elbows by the gross.   If I went by this rule the pipe would all hang below the ceiling.

[cjehly]

2 offsets huh?

someone doesn't jobs like the typical ones I get.

[Zorg]

Depends how much planning you put into it and what the base design looks like. If I'm doing general floor plans, 2 different levels of pipework is my maximum, not taking into considering the 1 or 2 odd offset for jumping over mains etc.

Plantrooms I always modularize and always have only 2 levels of pipework, more often than not under slung and top side mounted on channel or something.