Prerequisites for Auto Design
Before you can perform auto design, you need to create a basic one line. The following items are required or recommended:
- The one-line must have a source (utility or generator) connected.
- Define all the loads and motor HP. Upstream cables and protective devices can be sized based on downstream loads or the downstream bus rating. In the absence of load data, you can also specify the Amp rating for the downstream bus items like panels.
- For motors, make sure that the motor size (HP) and rated voltage is a standard/typical size. All motors sizes described in NEC are included in the Generic design template. For motors with different HP rating, you will need to include the motor data in the library.
- Define cable lengths. Lengths can affect project quantities and costs, and also affect voltage drop calculations at the downstream end. Cables with undefined length can be given a predefined length specified in Auto Design Options.
- Define bus type. For every bus equipment that needs to be sized, you need to define the type as switchgear, switchboard, panelboard, MCC, panel, and so on. Sizing of bus and the protective devices on the bus is based on the type of equipment.
- Check transformer kV. The primary and secondary kV and the size (kVA) of the transformer must be defined in the design sheet in the library. Typical sizes and voltages are listed in the Generic template. You can add new types of transformers.
