However, for organizations that have invested in PDMS previously, upgrading to E3D 3.1 is a low-risk, high-reward move. The automated isometrics alone typically pay for the licensing fees within a single project lifecycle.
| Feature | AVEVA E3D 3.1 | Smart 3D (2023) | AutoCAD Plant 3D | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Oracle / SQL | SQL (Oracle legacy) | DWG (File based) | | Point Cloud Handling | Excellent (Draping/Color) | Very Good | Moderate (Slow with >50M points) | | Isometric Production | ISO 3.1 Engine (Auto-clean) | Rule-based (Custom code required) | Manual clean-up often needed | | Learning Curve | Steep (3 months intensive) | Very Steep (6 months) | Moderate (2 weeks) | | Assembly Merging | Native (Design & MTO combined) | Add-on modules required | Basic | | Price Point | $$$ (Enterprise) | $$$$ | $$ | aveva e3d 3.1
Using E3D’s alignment tools, the scan is registered against the original design coordinates. However, for organizations that have invested in PDMS
A piping designer routes a new 8" chemical injection line. Because E3D 3.1 sees the point cloud as geometry, the line automatically avoids the existing structural steel. The designer receives a real-time notification: "Clearance to existing valve: 45mm (Requires 50mm)." The designer nudges the route by 5mm, and the warning clears. A piping designer routes a new 8" chemical injection line
Download the trial, load a 5GB point cloud of a congested pipe rack, and try to route a single line. You will feel the difference in an hour. That is the power of AVEVA E3D 3.1. Looking for training? Check official AVEVA Learning Hub courses specifically for E3D 3.1 Piping and Structural modules. For hardware, ensure your workstation meets the RAM specifications above—skimping on RAM is the #1 cause of user frustration in 3.1.
The survey team scans the existing FPSO topside. The 500GB point cloud is imported into E3D 3.1.