If you’re new to API standards and their role in CML management, be sure to check out our article: How API 510, 570, and 653 Standards Shape Asset Integrity in the Petrochemical Industry — and How WebPano Visual Plant Helps.
Condition Monitoring Location point cloud
Do you manage critical Condition Monitoring Locations (CMLs) on your industrial assets in line with API inspection standards? Are you looking for a way to monitor pipeline integrity, prevent corrosion, and plan retrofits more effectively—including estimating the time and cost of scaffold installations? Your answer might be WebPano Visual Plant from 3Deling.
Visual Plant platforms like WebPano are redefining how CML management and pipeline modernization planning are done. Whether you’re working with a full 3D model or only point cloud data, WebPano allows you to locate, annotate, edit, and manage these crucial inspection points while staying fully compliant with industry codes.
What Are CMLs in API Standards?
CMLs (Condition Monitoring Locations) are strategically selected points on industrial systems—especially piping (API 570) and pressure vessels (API 510)—designated for regular monitoring. These locations are used to assess material loss due to corrosion (uniform, localized, or under insulation/CUI), erosion, wear, or other forms of degradation.
Ultrasonic thickness readings are often taken at CMLs during inspections. API 570 and API 510 recommend tracking the lowest or average readings from these points to calculate corrosion rates and remaining life. Accurate spatial placement of these locations is critical for mechanical integrity, failure prevention, and long-term maintenance planning—especially within Risk-Based Inspection (RBI) frameworks based on API RP 580.
Two Scenarios: Managing CMLs with and without a 3D Model
Scenario 1: CML Management with a 3D Model
Condition Monitoring Location with WebPano Visual Plant 3d model
WebPano enables CML workflows that integrate directly with a 3D model:
- Object Search & Navigation: Easily locate CML points via the search function in the LISTS panel.
- Pinpoint Accuracy: The target icon helps pinpoint specific CMLs directly on the 3D model in the viewport.
- Visibility: CML markers are clearly visible on the model, facilitating rapid inspection planning.
- Real-Time Measurement: Use the measurement tool to check distances, access routes, or clearance.
- Import Custom Geometry: Upload your own .obj files—such as scaffolding models—to simulate real-world interventions.
- Adjust for Reality: Move and rotate imported objects to test for fit within tight spaces.
- Editable Interface: Add, organize, and edit CML points through an intuitive browser-based interface.
Scenario 2: CML Management Using Only Point Cloud Data
Condition Monitoring Location with WebPano Visual Plant point cloud
Even without a full 3D model, WebPano delivers full CML functionality:
- Visual Identification: Locate and mark inspection points directly within the point cloud.
- Contextual Measurements: Check reach, clearance, and positioning using the built-in measurement tool.
- CML Editing: Create and manage points dynamically within the cloud viewer.
- Scaffold Simulation: Import 3D scaffolding models to assess space and access routes.
- Flexible Application: Ideal for brownfield sites, remote facilities, or assets lacking up-to-date 3D documentation.
Why Is This a Game-Changer for API Compliance and Maintenance Planning?
WebPano Visual Plant provides an API-compliant foundation for your inspection and maintenance workflows:
- ✔ Speeds up CML inspections in accordance with API 510/570 by making all data visible, traceable, and spatially accurate.
- ✔ Improves retrofit planning by virtually placing scaffolding or maintenance equipment to assess feasibility and risk.
- ✔ Supports smart location-based monitoring, empowering inspectors and engineers with instant visual data.
- ✔ Adaptable to your data: Whether you use BIM models, point clouds, or both, WebPano fits into your process.
From Compliance to Confidence
With WebPano, inspection teams, asset managers, and plant engineers can confidently manage their API-based maintenance programs. The platform offers more than compliance—it offers clarity, safety, and efficiency.
See WebPano in action: Watch our video:
CML Management with Point Cloud
Learn more: https://3deling.pl/webpano/index.html
Have a project in mind? Contact us at: mail@3deling.com
Want to dive deeper into API inspection strategies and how they influence digital workflows?
Read our related post:
How API 510, 570, and 653 Standards Shape Asset Integrity in the Petrochemical Industry — and How WebPano Visual Plant Helps
