Select the saved PV Elite file. Configure your import preferences, such as mapping specific PV Elite materials to your internal Autodesk Inventor material library.
Check your Hexagon support contract today, download the latest PV Elite Inventor Plugin, and take your first step toward a truly integrated pressure vessel design system.
Rebuilding a pressure vessel model from scratch in Inventor after it has already been optimized in PV Elite is a massive waste of time. It introduces human error, mismatches in dimensions, and costly revisions during the fabrication phase.
The plugin syncs material properties specified in PV Elite (such as SA-516 Gr. 70 or SA-240 316L) with Inventor’s material library. This ensures that the generated Inventor Bill of Materials (BOM) is immediately populated with accurate weights, material grades, and quantities, streamlining procurement and estimation. Step-by-Step Workflow: From Math to Model
A mechanical engineer uses PV Elite to design a pressure vessel or heat exchanger, ensuring it complies with codes like ASME Section VIII Division 1 or 2. pv elite inventor plugin
The PV Elite Inventor plugin is a free add-in tool that provides a direct path to import a PV Elite model into Autodesk Inventor. It transfers the full analysis data from the PV Elite model, enabling engineers to generate 2D fabrication drawings, nozzle schedules, bill of materials (BOM), and other documentation directly within Inventor. The plugin eliminates the need for manual re-creation of 3D models and ensures that all design data is accurately captured and utilized in the drafting process.
A: No. It requires an active PV Elite maintenance/support subscription. However, it is included at no extra cost for current subscribers.
: Unlike a generic STEP file export, this plugin reads native .pvdb (PV Elite database) files. This means it recognizes individual components—like flanges, nozzles, and shells—as distinct layers and properties within Inventor, rather than just "dumb" geometry. PV Elite Inventor Plugin - Forums, Autodesk
The drafting team uses the generated 3D assembly to instantly create accurate 2D manufacturing drawings, detailing weld maps, dimensions, and assembly instructions. Business and Technical Benefits Select the saved PV Elite file
The plugin fosters closer collaboration between engineering and drafting departments. Because both teams work from the same core data set, miscommunications are minimized, and design reviews become much smoother. Streamlined Procurement and Fabrication
Manual redesign is one of the biggest bottlenecks in pressure vessel fabrication. By automating the transfer of geometry, the PV Elite Inventor Plugin can help reduce total design time by up to . This allows engineers to focus on optimization rather than data entry. 2. Elimination of Human Error PV Elite Inventor Plugin - Forums, Autodesk
Manually copying dimensions, nozzle orientations, and flange ratings from an analysis report into CAD introduces human error.
Once imported, users can easily create 2D General Arrangement (GA) drawings, projection views (top, side, bottom), and isometric views. Rebuilding a pressure vessel model from scratch in
By slashing the time required to move from approved calculations to fabrication drawings, engineering firms can bid on tighter project timelines and deliver equipment to clients faster. Reducing Engineering Scrap and Rework
Perform your standard wall-thickness calculations, MAWP (Maximum Allowable Working Pressure) determinations, and stress analyses under ASME Section VIII or EN 13445 codes.
By implementing the PV Elite Inventor Plugin, you transform pressure vessel engineering from a fragmented chore into a streamlined, intelligent process.