In April 2025, four industry leaders - Smap3D Plant Design, Pipe Bending Systems, Polysoude and T-Drill - launch the Connected Pipeshop Alliance. After years of close collaboration, the companies are taking their partnership to a new, more engaging level, with the aim of increasing confidence in a fully integrated piping engineering and fabrication solution through a unique joint approach.
The Connected Pipeshop Alliance combines unparalleled expertise in pipe engineering, bending, collaring, and welding to provide plant manufacturers with an integrated turnkey solution for engineering and fabricating highly precise piping systems. By unifying cutting-edge software and equipment, the Connected Pipeshop Alliance ensures unmatched productivity, efficiency, and quality in plant construction.
Smap3D PIPEFAB as the Core of the Collaboration
As a long-time pioneer in seamless digital processes for pipeline engineering and fabrication, Smap3D is taking this collaboration to the next level: Its advanced Manufacturing Execution System (MES), Smap3D PIPEFAB, bridges the gap between pipe engineering and fabrication and builds the heart of the collaboration. The MES ensures that digital design data from Smap3D Plant Design software, which seamlessly integrates with leading CAD systems such as SOLIDWORKS, Inventor, and Solid Edge, is efficiently transferred into the fabrication process. As a result, it enables workflow-driven and precise manufacturing planning as well as complete control over the entire pipeline process. Data can also be imported from third-party systems via Step, Igas or PCF interfaces and pipes can be drawn directly in Smap3D PIPEFAB.
A Proven Partnership with Demonstrated Synergies
Since 2023, the four partners have been operating a joint showroom at Pipe Bending Systems' headquarters in Lennestadt, Sauerland, where numerous visitors were able to experience live demonstrations of this seamless synergy. The integrated overall process - from pipe engineering to fabrication - combines the individual expertise of all partners:
Expertise of the Alliance Members:
- Smap3D Plant Design (Germany): As a leading provider of solutions for integrated 2D and 3D engineering as well as pipe fabrication and control, enables a fully integrated process chain – from design to manufacturing. This digitalization not only increases efficiency but also significantly reduces error rates and material waste.
- Pipe Bending Systems (Germany): The machine manufacturer delivers high-precision pipe bending machines and measuring systems that are adaptable and modular. These machines allow for highly efficient production, even in single-part manufacturing scenarios, achieving smart, scalable, and flexible production lines.
- T-Drill (Finland): As a pioneer in collaring, flanging, and end forming technology, T-Drill offers machines designed to streamline tube and pipe fabrication processes. The T-Drill method for branch pipe connections reduces the need for additional fittings and cuts fabrication time and costs, adhering to the highest quality standards recognized by multiple classification societies.
- Polysoude (France): Recognized worldwide for expertise in orbital and automated welding, Polysoude’s fully digital Smart Welding Stations meet the highest standards of Industry 4.0, ensuring reliable, high-quality welding solutions for critical applications across industries.
Driving Industry 4.0 and Digital Transformation
The Connected Pipeshop Alliance is deeply committed to setting new standards in the digitalization of pipeline engineering and fabrication. Its innovative solutions include real-time data transfer, quality management, batch tracking, and production documentation. Additional features for warehouse management, assembly logistics, and welding documentation control ensure a truly digital and efficient process.
Revolutionizing Pipe Fabrication and Plant Engineering
With their combined expertise, innovative tools, and international market reach, the Connected Pipeshop Alliance is set to revolutionize the industry and to ensure a fully digitalized process landscape. It provides machine and plant manufacturers with seamless solutions to enhance quality, streamline operations, and embrace digital transformation.