Overview
ISO 14617-12:2002, "Graphical symbols for diagrams - Part 12: Devices for separating, purification and mixing," defines a standardized set of graphical symbols for representing separation, purification and mixing devices in technical diagrams. The standard is part of the ISO 14617 symbol library intended for process plant documentation and technical schematics. It provides basic symbol elements, supplementary symbols, application rules and worked examples to ensure consistent, unambiguous diagramming across industries.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: Specifies symbols for devices used in separating, purification by conversion, mixing, and air conditioners for pneumatic systems.
- Symbol sets: Basic symbols include identifiers such as:
- 2601 - Device for separating
- 301 - Envelope (tank/vessel)
- 2602 - Screen or filter element
- 2603 / 2604 - Fixed / fluidized bed filters
- 2651 - Purifier using conversion
- 2671 - Device for mixing (with rotary 2672 and static 2673 elements)
- 2691 - Air conditioner for pneumatic systems
- Supplementary information symbols: Symbols to indicate operational types or features, e.g. cyclonic, electrostatic, catalytic, ion-exchange, thermal, permanent-magnet and motion indicators.
- Application rules: Rules (R‑prefixed items such as R2601, R301, R2602, R2671) govern composition of composite symbols, placement of supplementary symbols, and when to use an envelope vs. elemental symbol. Examples illustrate how to combine elements (e.g., filter + spray nozzle, drum + scraper).
- Examples and usage: Multiple application examples (X‑prefixed) show common assemblies-filters, centrifuges, scrubbers, tray columns, mixers and pneumatic air conditioners-to guide consistent representation.
Practical applications and users
ISO 14617-12 is practical for:
- Process and chemical engineers creating P&IDs and process flow diagrams
- Instrumentation & control engineers documenting separation and mixing equipment
- CAD librarians and technical illustrators building symbol libraries for schematics
- Manufacturers and OEMs preparing datasheets, installation diagrams or maintenance manuals
- Standards committees and documentation teams seeking harmonized symbol usage
Benefits include clearer communication, easier cross-discipline interpretation, and improved interoperability of technical documentation.
Related standards
- ISO 14617-1: General information and indexes (symbol registration and presentation)
- ISO 14617-2: Symbols having general application
- ISO 81714-1: Basic rules for design and application of graphical symbols
Keywords: ISO 14617-12:2002, graphical symbols for diagrams, separator symbols, purification symbols, mixing device symbols, P&ID symbols, process plant documentation, ISO symbol library.