Pumps ‘n Pipeline (PnP) v2.0 is a hydraulic transport simulation tool for dredging and mining that has evolved into a comprehensive platform for modelling pump performance and pipeline behaviour. Now available as a web-based application, it offers improved accessibility, enhanced visual outputs and more efficient feature development. Built around a structured Define – Estimate – Perform workflow, PnP supports accurate, physics-based decision-making with reduced project risk.
Expanding Access to Hydraulic Transport Simulation
PnP is a hydraulic transport simulation tool developed by in2Dredging (i2D) to support accurate suction and discharge production estimates in dredging and mining applications. Designed for real-world engineering use, PnP delivers reliable pump performance modelling across a wide range of soil mixtures and conditions. It also accurately predicts pipeline pressure losses, helping users assess system performance with confidence.
As PnP has been applied across increasingly diverse range of projects and operating environments, its capabilities have continued to evolve. This ongoing development has enhanced to accurately represent project-specific operating conditions.
As a result, engineers and estimators can rely on consistent, physics-based insights when assessing hydraulic transport systems. This supports more informed decision-making throughout project planning, design and execution.
Since its initial release in 2017, PnP has undergone continuous development through near-annual updates. Each release has focused on expanding functionality rather than simply refining existing features. What began as a core hydraulic transport simulation tool has grown to incorporate a broader range of capabilities. These include particle size distribution, non‑Newtonian rheology, pump system analysis, energy-based evaluation and now also pump design analysis.
This steady, incremental development has enabled PnP to address a broad, increasingly diverse range of engineering scenarios. At the same time, it has remained grounded in practical real-world application.
Pumps 'n Pipeline Now Accessible via the Web
PnP is now available as a fully web-based application, allowing users to access the tool directly through a browser. As a result, there is no need for local installation, simplifying deployment across teams and projects.
This transition to a web application preserves the core functionality of Pumps ‘n Pipeline while introducing a more flexible and maintainable development framework. As a result, updates, enhancements and new features can be delivered more efficiently.
The web-based PnP engineering tool now offers:
- Simple, direct access from any standard browser
- Clear and more comprehensive visual outputs for hydraulic transport simulation results
- A more streamlined pathway for developing and integrating new features, such as the pump design review module. Additional functionality is also planned for future releases.
Define. Estimate. Perform | A Structured Engineering Workflow
At the core of Pumps ‘n Pipeline is a clear and structured engineering framework built around three core pillars: Define, Estimate and Perform. Together, these stages reflect the typical workflow used in hydraulic transport simulation. They guide users from establishing system parameters through to performance evaluation and operational decision-making.
This approach is designed to support successful project delivery with reduced risk. By grounding analysis in a solid physical understanding of system behaviour, PnP helps minimise uncertainty. It also reduces the risk of unexpected performance issues during execution.
By improving accessibility, the web-based platform strengthens the connection between analytical insight and practical real-world application.
The Role of AI in PnP’s Development
During the development of the web-based Pumps ‘n Pipeline platform, modern AI tools were introduced to assist and accelerate elements of the software development process. While AI contributes to improved efficiency, its limitations also became apparent, particularly in engineering contexts where physical accuracy is critical.
AI relies on patterns in existing code and language. It does not inherently understand the physics behind hydraulic transport simulation or what constitutes a realistic engineering outcome.
This reinforces the importance of a well-structured software framework, driven by engineering principles and domain expertise. The PnP engineering tool’s reliability depends on developers who understand the physical processes being modelled and the expected system behaviour. This ensures outputs remain accurate, interpretable and representative of real-world conditions.
AI therefore plays a supporting role in development. Meanwhile, the core functionality, validation of outputs, and overall system design remain firmly grounded in engineering judgement and experience.
Investing in a Practical Hydraulic Transport Engineering Tool
The shift to a web-based PnP platform reflects a focused investment in improving accessibility and usability within everyday engineering workflows. By eliminating installation requirements and standardising the operating environment, the tool can be deployed more efficiently across teams and projects. This also ensures consistency in how hydraulic transport simulations are performed and interpreted.
With this release, PnP becomes a more practical and accessible tool for engineers and estimators. The platform provides clear, informative visual outputs and streamlined access to reliable simulation results, supporting users in:
- Defining system parameters with confidence;
- Accurately estimating performance based on sound physical principles; and ultimately
- Delivering outcomes with reduced risk and greater certainty in execution.
Access PnP Easily
Via our webpage at: https://www.in2dredging.com/pumps-n-pipeline
Or subscribe directly at: https://www.in2dredging.com/shop.
Flexible
monthly and annual options are available, providing immediate access to a
powerful, web-based hydraulic transport simulation tool
designed for modern
dredging and mining projects.