Here's a written article for Siemens Autocad Electrical Library:

Computer Software for the Plumbing Designer: An Overview

The plumbing design industry has traditionally lagged behind its mechanical and electrical counterparts in terms of access to specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software. However, with the advancement of technology, capable software is now becoming available specifically for the plumbing designer.

At recent trade shows like the American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Show in Long Beach, California, companies have been exhibiting plumbing design software that can help streamline the design process for plumbing engineers. These programs cater to the specific needs of plumbing designers, who require software that can handle tasks such as sizing water supply and drainage systems, designing sanitary building drain systems, and drawing plumbing pipe networks.

In addition to these specialized programs, general-purpose CAD software like AutoCAD can also be used to automate certain aspects of the design process. For instance, piping network drawings can be easily created using AutoCAD's CAD capabilities.

The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) in Walnut, California, is just one example of an organization that has recognized the need for specialized plumbing design software. Their efforts have led to the development of programs specifically designed for the plumbing industry.

In this article, we will explore the various computer software options currently available to the plumbing designer, including those from Elite Software of Bryan, Texas, and IAPMO. By understanding these options, plumbing engineers can better navigate the world of CAD software and make informed decisions about which tools best suit their needs.

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