Roymech engineering encyclopedia

Process Flow Diagram (PFD) and Engineering Symbols




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Process flow diagram (PFD) symbols are used to represent piping systems, equipment and flow paths in engineering drawings. These standardised symbols allow engineers to clearly communicate system layouts and operating principles.

This page provides a reference for common line types, pipe supports and piping symbols used in process flow diagrams and engineering line drawings in accordance with recognised standards.

What are Process Flow Diagram Symbols?

Process flow diagram symbols are graphical representations used to describe process systems. They are widely used in mechanical, chemical and process engineering to illustrate the flow of fluids, equipment connections and control elements.

Common Types of PFD and Piping Symbols

  • Line types (main process, utilities, signal lines)
  • Pipe supports and restraints
  • Valves and fittings
  • Instrumentation and control symbols

The following symbols are generally in accordance with BS 1553-1...and BS 5070


Line Types in Process Flow Diagrams


< h2>Pipe Supports and Restraints


Piping and Fitting Symbols


Symbols for Valves

v


Symbols for Valve Actuators.


Symbols for Instruments.





Instrument Indentifiers



Measured Variable Type of Conditioner Type of Component
F = Flow R = Recorder T = Transmitter
L = Level I = Indicator M = Modifier
P = Pressure C = Controller E = Element
Q = Quantity A = Alarm  
T = Temperature    


Symbols for Process Equipment.

The level of detail for the equipment relates to the type of schematic being produced.   A Process Flow Sheet will only show the basic level of information sufficient to show the essential process flowpaths.   An Engineering Line Diagram of P & ID drawing will show a much more detailed representation.








Line Tags and Equipment Identification.

Related Engineering Drawing Pages

Further information on engineering drawing symbols and standards can be found on related pages covering surface finish, geometric tolerances and technical drawing conventions.

See Also


Links Providing information on Drawing
  1. Process Flow Diagrams... A short download document including some symbols and some diagrams
  2. Designing a Proces Flow Sheet... A download document including some symbols and some diagrams


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