The Intergraph PDS module makes a standard neutral file (with a .n suffix). CAESAR II has an interface which will read this neutral file.

The PDS neutral file contains its own node numbers. The CAESAR II interface does have an option to renumber the nodes during the transfer, but node numbering has never presented a problem.

Assuming the material mapping file is present, material properties can be transfered into the CAESAR IImodel.

Temperatures and pressures should also be transfered with no problems. Allowable stress values are not present in the neutral file, so the stress analyst should set/check these.

If you encounter a PDS neutral file that will not transfer properly into CAESAR II, send the neutral file to COADE for evaluation (techsupport@coade.com).


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Regards,
Richard Ay (COADE, Inc.)