OpenFlows WaterCAD logo

OpenFlows WaterCAD

by Bentley Systems · Since 1984
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ActiveAvailable globallyCloudOn-premise
Quick facts
VendorBentley Systems
Year launched1984
StatusActive
LocationBentley Systems, Incorporated 685 Stockton Drive Exton, PA 19341, United States
Countries servedGlobal
Languages10
Integrations
Free tier
Free trial
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About OpenFlows WaterCAD

OpenFlows WaterCAD is a water distribution modeling software from Bentley Systems that supports the planning, design, and improvement of water distribution systems. It provides features such as scenario management, hydraulic analysis, and user-friendly interfaces so engineers can make informed decisions about their water systems. This software enables users to efficiently model various scenarios, analyze hydraulic performance, and evaluate the impact of potential designs. Its reliable capabilities allow for accurate modeling of complex networks and real-time data analysis. Key capabilities: scenario management hydraulic analysis network modeling data visualization performance evaluation Best for: civil engineers and water resource managers that need to design and manage efficient water distribution systems.

OpenFlows WaterCAD, developed by the industry giant Bentley Systems, is a specialized and powerful Hydraulic Modeling Software essential for water distribution system analysis and design. Its strength lies in its exceptional interoperability, allowing users to leverage their existing CAD (AutoCAD/MicroStation) and GIS (ArcGIS Pro) environments, and its robust tools for Scenario Management and rapid model building from external data sources. While the software provides comprehensive features, including crucial Fire Flow Analysis and Water Quality modeling, the full suite of capabilities often requires an upgrade to the more expensive WaterGEMS or Water-Standard/Advanced tiers. As a high-end engineering tool, it is the industry standard for large utilities and civil engineering firms, but its subscription costs and technical complexity may be a barrier for smaller organizations.

Pros & Cons

What users like
  • +Includes crucial features like Fire Flow and Water Quality analysis in one package.
  • +Allows quick model creation and synchronization from various GIS/CAD sources
  • +Simplifies the evaluation of unlimited "what-if" conditions for long-term planning and operational changes
  • +Ability to run within the user's preferred CAD/GIS environment
What users flag
  • Full access to updates and support requires ongoing subscription payments.
  • Primarily a desktop application designed for the Windows operating system
  • It requires significant technical expertise in hydraulics and modeling to use effectively
  • The advanced packages required for full functionality is expensive for very small firms

Features

Key features

Hydraulic Modeling
Core capability to simulate water flow, pressure, and velocity throughout the entire distribution network. This is essential for understanding system performance under various conditions.
Multi-Platform Integration
Can run as a standalone application, or integrate directly within AutoCAD, MicroStation, and ArcGIS Pro. This provides users with flexibility to work within their preferred CAD or GIS environment.
Scenario Management
Allows engineers to configure, run, and compare an unlimited number of "what-if" scenarios within a single file. This helps evaluate different operational strategies, design alternatives, and planning horizons.
Fire Flow Analysis
Automatically simulates multiple fire flow events simultaneously to accurately assess the network's ability to provide adequate flow and pressure for fire protection. Ensures public safety and compliance with fire codes.
Model Building from Geospatial Data (LoadBuilder/TRex)
Includes tools (LoadBuilder and TRex) to automatically convert data from CAD, GIS (Shapefiles), databases, and DEMs into a working hydraulic model. This minimizes manual input errors and accelerates the initial model creation process.

Additional features

Water Quality Analysis
Tools for modeling constituent (e.g., chlorine) decay, water age, tank mixing, and source trace analysis. Helps develop effective chlorination schedules and simulate contamination events.
Extended Period Simulation (EPS)
Enables modeling the network's performance over a duration of time, factoring in changing demands and pump/tank operations. Crucial for operational planning and energy management.
Criticality Analysis
A utility to identify critical assets (pipes, valves) in the infrastructure and evaluate the risk associated with their failure. Helps prioritize capital improvement projects and minimize risk.
Pump Modeling and Control
Allows for the accurate modeling of pump types (fixed and variable speed) and the implementation of rule-based operational controls. Enables engineers to simulate real-time operations and find bottlenecks.
Pressure-Dependent Demands (PDD)
Models how demand is affected when pressure drops below an acceptable level. Provides a more realistic simulation of system performance during low-pressure events.
Data Exchange Capabilities
Supports a persistent, bidirectional connection with external data sources like GIS shapefiles, databases, and spreadsheets. Ensures the model remains synchronized with external asset management systems.
Advanced Visualization and Reporting
Provides thematic mapping, detailed charts, graphs, and customized reports to easily visualize and communicate analysis results. Makes complex hydraulic data understandable for decision-makers.

Pricing

Free trial
Free version
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Countries & Languages

Global
Countries served
10
Interface languages
1
Billing currencies

Interface languages

EnglishChineseFrenchGermanItalianJapaneseKoreanPolishPortuguese (Brazil)Spanish

Billing currencies

🇺🇸USD

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