P&IDs are often confused with process flow diagrams (PFD). Since they aren’t drawn to scale, P&IDs should not be used as a map or floor plan of the system. P&IDs are used for the design and maintenance of the manufacturing processes they represent, and are imperative for troubleshooting and process monitoring. The purpose of a P&ID is to illustrate a system’s process. Symbols can also be marked with words, letters and numbers for more detail.īelow is an example of a P&ID for a heat exchange process: The symbols for these components aren’t drawn to scale and aren’t intended to be dimensionally accurate. The instruments’ function within a process.
P&IDs include standard symbols that explain: A P&ID is a detailed, visual representation of a process system.