Transferring data between different software programs and the fabrication shop exposed Bassett Mechanical to inefficiencies and potential for errors, so they adopted PypeServer software to streamline the process, which has saved time and cut down mistakes. A full-service contractor, Bassett Mechanical specializes in designing, fabricating, installing, and maintaining mechanical systems across several industries. Tyler Petersen, Bassett’s vice president of manufacturing, turned to PypeServer for seamless integration between Bassett’s multiple design software programs and the fabrication tools in the shop.
Improving Workflow
Bassett Mechanical creates piping, plumbing, and HVAC designs in Autodesk Revit and then processes them through MSUITE to form fabrication packages. Bassett also uses SpoolFab to create pipe spool drawings. Finally, Bassett uses SDS2 detailing software for structural steel, handrail, and other industrial projects. Historically, sending data from these different programs to the shop floor introduced inefficiencies, including the need to manually program automated machinery, with the associated potential for errors. Petersen explained, “We needed a solution that would streamline our process while maintaining flexibility for the variety of design programs we use.”
PypeServer’s software for fab shop tool control supports all of Bassett’s design software and other programs as well. As a result, Bassett can process cut parts from all of their software, with the same automated part nesting, label printing, and fabrication status tracking regardless of the source of the data or the way it was sent to the fab shop.
Bassett’s Revit data flows to MSUITE and then to the PypeServer software running the shop tools via PypeServer’s bidirectional application program interface (API) connection to MSUITE. Bassett’s SDS2 designs are sent to the shop using PypeServer’s Connect plug-in for SDS2, which allows the designer to select parts directly within SDS2 and send them to the PypeServer Cloud with all the data needed for fabrication with just a few clicks of the mouse. Bassett’s SpoolFab software outputs PCD files that PypeServer’s tool software can import directly.
Pipe parts are routed to an HGG 900 RB pipe profiler using PypeServer Enterprise, while saw-cut parts are sent to a Kentucky Gauge linear positioner system controlled by PypeServer Lyte and integrated with a Marvel Saw. This arrangement allows the Bassett team to send cut parts directly from the model to the most appropriate cutting equipment without having to manually program the machines. No matter which route the data takes, the fab shop machine operators have the same user interface and the same nesting and label printing capabilities. “The interface and usability stood out,” Petersen noted. “PypeServer made it simple to connect our design software, fabrication software, and cutting equipment.”
See this web page to learn whether your software is compatible with PypeServer: https://pypeserver.com/compatible-software/
Achieving Results
The implementation process was straightforward, but Bassett’s original, older pipe profiler was never designed for third-party software control and presented some challenges. However, with dedicated support from PypeServer’s team, including Kelly Dillon and Ricky Bell, these hurdles were quickly overcome. Petersen recalled, “Their support was instrumental in getting everything up and running, and now we’ve been processing parts seamlessly for over a year.”
Since adopting PypeServer, Bassett Mechanical has significantly optimized operations:
- Time savings: By eliminating manual programming, the company has reduced the time spent preparing cut files.
- Error reduction: Automating file transfer minimizes human error in programming.
- Increased flexibility: PypeServer supports files from various design programs, streamlining the production of diverse projects.
“The flexibility to process cut parts regardless of the design program is key for us,” Petersen emphasized.
Read the full Bassett case study at www.pypeserver.com/pypeserver-delivers-improved-fabrication-workflow-for-bassett-mechanical/
For Bassett Mechanical, PypeServer has become a critical component in the workflow. “We couldn’t run as efficiently without it,” Petersen stated. By integrating seamlessly from design through fabrication, PypeServer helped Bassett eliminate redundant steps, providing a strong return on investment.
Looking Ahead
Beyond its technical capabilities, Petersen appreciates PypeServer’s commitment to innovation. “They’re always willing to tackle new challenges and solve complex problems for us,” he said. With PypeServer’s support, Bassett Mechanical continues to deliver tailored, efficient solutions to its clients.
Bassett Mechanical found that embracing solutions like PypeServer transforms workflow efficiency and ensures reliable project outcomes. As Petersen concluded, “Optimizing information flow is just as crucial as optimizing physical material flow, and PypeServer makes that possible.”
For more information, visit PypeServer.com, send an email to info@pypeserver.com, or call 425-333-7736.
