When building a Calculation, Pipeline LBM requires specific formatting and structure.
| Requirement | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Start with QTY | Each calculation must begin with QTY followed by an operator
(/, *, +, or -). QTY represents
the takeoff input quantity and must not be removed or replaced. |
QTY/16 |
| Use Parentheses Correctly | You may use paired parentheses to group operations. Nested parentheses are evaluated from the innermost expression outward. | QTY/100*(400/7200)
Pipeline evaluates 400/7200 first, then multiplies the result by 100. |
| Order of Operations | Pipeline follows standard mathematical order: Parentheses → Multiply/Divide → Add/Subtract (PMDAS). | A formula like QTY/4+2 divides first, then adds. |
| Avoid the Following | Do not use exponents, spaces in the formula, or remove the required QTY at the start. Removing QTY causes the calculation to fail. | Incorrect: 16/QTY (starts with a number)
Incorrect: QTY / 16 (contains spaces)
Incorrect: deleting QTY entirely |
Pipeline automatically inserts QTY for new Calculations – always leave it intact, as deleting it will cause the calculation to fail.
Examples of Common Calculations
- Feet to Inches: QTY/12
- Linear Feet to Stud Count: QTY*1.2
- Square Feet to 4×8 Sheets: QTY/32
These formulas are often used within Key Measures to translate wall lengths, areas, or volumes into material counts.