Models made in other AFT products such as AFT Fathom can be opened directly in AFT Impulse and vice versa. This can be a useful starting point when it is desired to perform additional analysis on a model that has already been built in another AFT product, such as if it is desired to perform transient analysis for a model originally built in Fathom.

To convert a model from one AFT product to another just browse to the model you would like to convert and open it in the software you are converting the model to. This can be done by changing the file extension selected, as is shown below in Figure 1. Note that though AFT Arrow and AFT xStream are not explicitly listed, models from Arrow and xStream can also be converted by selecting "All" and browsing to the model file.

When the model is opened in AFT Impulse a backup copy of the original model will be created from which the original model can be restored if needed. See the Backup Settings explanation for more information on backup files.

The conversion process will automatically change junction types not included in AFT Impulse to either a General Component or Branch junction. In addition, Impulse will provide the option to merge junctions with static losses into the connected pipes using the Combining Pipes feature. Combining pipes when a model is imported to Impulse typically results in a small decrease in accuracy for a large decrease in run time, as is discussed here.

Be aware that some features available for use in other AFT products are not available for use in AFT Impulse. If a junction is defined using a feature not available in AFT Impulse, the non-applicable information will be removed, and the user may be required to input additional information to fully define the model. It is advised to fully review the model after import.