Importing GIS Shapefiles

Import GIS Shapefile

GIS Shapefiles that adhere to the ESRI standard can be imported into xStream for ease of model creation. These files have the extension .shp, but there are two other supporting file types that need to be in the same folder as the .shp in order for the import to work correctly. These are .shx and .dbf file types. The option is located under File > Import Piping Layout From > GIS Shapefile (.shp). This opens the "Import Piping Layout Wizard" in the Quick Access Panel that allows the importing of one line .shp that is of pipes and multiple point .shp files for branches, valves, compressors/fans, and tanks. Once the .shp files have been added to this window the object type, scaling, and mapping can be selected.

Type

Any .shp files that are of lines are automatically set to the object type of "Pipes". Only one .shp file containing lines can be imported at a time. Any .shp file that is of points can be set to Branches, Valves, Compressors/Fans, or Tanks.

Scaling

The default scaling is 1 grid point to 1 foot. This can be adjusted by selecting the "..." button in the Scaling column. This button opens a new window in which a new scale can be committed to the shapefile. This window also allows the viewing the coordinates of specific points and parts of different shapes within the shapefile.

Mapping

The Data Mapping window allows the user to select what data fields have relevant data for xStream to import.

• Pipes can map:

• Labels - Names

• Length - If no length is imported, the pipe lengths will be calculated based upon the shapefiles scaling.

• Friction - Absolute Roughness, Relative Roughness, and Explicit Friction Factor friction models are available.

• Inner Diameter

• Branches can map:

• Labels - Names

• Elevation

• Compressors/Fans can map:

• Assigned Flow - Imports as a Fixed Flowrate compressor

• Labels - Names

• Elevation

• Tanks can map:

  • Labels - Names

  • Elevation

• Valves can map:        

  • Labels - Names

  • Elevation