01 / Size basis
Know which diameter you are using.
Nominal pipe size is the call-out. It is not always the actual outside diameter. For example, a 6-inch nominal pipe has a 6⅝-inch outside diameter; adding 2-inch insulation brings the standard finished diameter to 10⅝ inches.
Use measured finished diameter or circumference when the actual covering differs. Check the unit setting before entering the dimensions and review any allowances that apply to the selected construction.
Keep the catalogue lookup separate.Aluminum fitting-cover numbers depend on the particular manufacturer’s series, nominal pipe size and insulation thickness. A measured outside size does not establish a catalogue part number.
02 / Drawings and templates
Follow the baseline and stations.
A baseline is the straight working line you measure from. Station spacing tells you how far apart to mark the numbered positions along the development. Use a square to transfer the listed depth from the baseline to the cut line.
Where the geometry is symmetric, a highlighted quarter or half can be mirrored to mark the remaining shape. A leaning or unequal fitting may have less symmetry; follow the drawing’s indicators rather than assuming that all quarters match.
For branch and run patterns, the negative is the material outside the retained piece or the material removed for the opening. Preserve the orientation marks. A flat branch development and a flat run opening are different shapes; use the appropriate view for flat marking.
Keep the dimensions with the picture.Save a dimensioned PNG or use Save all images for a ZIP of related drawings. These are measurement references, not full-size printable cutting templates. Full-scale PDF, DXF and CNC output remain future development.
03 / Valves
Measure the body and bonnet separately.
Start with the flange diameter or circumference and insulation thickness, then review the finished body size. Measure the body length you need. Use the “where to measure” drawing to identify the bonnet dimensions.
Choose the shape that represents the bonnet: round, ellipse, oval with straight sides or rounded rectangle. Insulated and bare shapes need different size information. Check the generated body, bonnet and applicable cap drawings together before preparing a first piece.
An unusual stem or oversized bonnet can need an additional measured closure or a field-fit adjustment. Do not substitute a nominal pipe size for an irregular measured shape.
04 / Job organisation
Keep the layout and the inventory clear.
Use a project for the work package and separate systems for its different pipe and insulation sizes. Add run length and direction, then add the next run. Previous entries collapse to keep the phone screen manageable.
Use quick valves for flange size, insulation thickness, quantity and tags when planning the work. Use a measured valve layout when you are preparing its pattern. Saved measured valves can be reused in a project without re-entering every dimension.
After preparing a test piece, record the field fit and any correction with the original measurements. It makes the next review easier and gives useful evidence when reporting an issue.
05 / Your notebook
Keep a copy outside the app.
- Open Settings → Backup & restore.
- Choose Save full backup file and choose a location you control.
- Keep a backup before updating, changing phones or clearing app storage.
- Review the backup before restoring it over the current notebook.
Backup files contain readable project information. Use encrypted storage for sensitive work. A project backup does not transfer a paid subscription or grant access rights.
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