ISYBAU-XML: the exchange format for German sewer data
How ISYBAU-XML is structured
An ISYBAU wastewater exchange file distinguishes six data areas. Two matter for sewer inspection: master data, which describes the network, and condition data, which holds the inspection results.
Master data follows an object-based edge-and-node model – pipes and laterals are edges, manholes and structures are nodes, and both are treated as equals. Condition data is organised by object, with every inspected object assigned to a job. At object level the format distinguishes pipes, nodes and structures, because inspection methods differ between them.
The 2006, 2013 and 2017 versions
XML-2006
The first XML generation of the format.
XML-2013
Adapted to DIN EN 13508-2:2011. Schema structure unchanged, so the interface stayed backward compatible.
XML-2017
Structural changes to the schema, while still carrying all information the earlier versions could.
Pallon supports all three versions. ISYBAU 2017 is used as the default; where a dataset comes in as version 2013, that version is preserved on export.
Coding system and exchange format are different things
The ISYBAU format carries condition data but does not dictate which coding system was used. Its data model accepts inspection data to DIN EN 13508-2 and DWA-M 149-2, and still permits the older ISYBAU 1996 and ISYBAU 2001 catalogues. Pallon codes to DIN EN 13508-2 and DWA-M 149-2 in the 2006 and 2013 editions, in their ISYBAU variants, and exports the result as ISYBAU-XML. The 1996 and 2001 catalogues are not produced.
What Pallon exports
You upload the inspection footage and the accompanying master data. Pallon detects and codes the defects, calculates condition grading to ISYBAU, VSA or DWA methods where required, and returns the data as ISYBAU-XML for import into your GIS, asset management or rehabilitation planning system. Condition reports are also delivered as PDF.
Both pipes and manholes are supported. For manholes the data scope is narrower than for pipes – not every structural element and metadata field is written back in full. If your project is manhole-heavy, talk to us first and we will tell you what gets reproduced in your case.
Other formats and standards
Alongside ISYBAU-XML, Pallon delivers VSA-KEK for Switzerland. Supported coding systems include DIN EN 13508-2, DWA-M 149-2, DWA-M 150, the VSA guidelines and NASSCO PACP 7 and MACP 7. See What’s supported for the full overview.
Frequently asked questions
In which formats does Pallon deliver condition reports?
Condition reports are delivered as PDF. Coding data is exported as ISYBAU-XML or VSA-KEK for import into your own GIS, asset management or rehabilitation planning software. Please check in advance whether the supported exchange files are compatible with your system.
What is ISYBAU-XML?
ISYBAU-XML is the exchange format used by the German federal building administration to transfer wastewater data between systems. It is defined in Annex A-7 of the Baufachliche Richtlinien Abwasser and covers six data areas, of which master data and condition data matter most for sewer inspection. It is widely used by municipalities and engineering firms in Germany for moving inspection results into GIS and planning software.
What is the difference between ISYBAU-XML and DWA-M 149-2?
They operate on different levels. DWA-M 149-2, applied together with DIN EN 13508-2, defines how a defect is coded. ISYBAU-XML defines how the coded data is transferred between systems. The two are used together: Pallon codes to the standard and delivers the result in the exchange format.
Which ISYBAU version does Pallon export?
Pallon supports the 2006, 2013 and 2017 versions of the ISYBAU wastewater exchange format. ISYBAU 2017 is used by default. Where a dataset arrives as version 2013, that version is preserved on export.
How can we export data and import it into our GIS?
Pallon exports the standard interchange formats – ISYBAU-XML and VSA-KEK – so condition data flows straight into your GIS or asset management system and stays attached to the right pipe segment. Bidirectional integrations exist with GIS systems used across Switzerland and Germany; further integrations are built on request. Please check in advance whether the supported exchange files are compatible with your GIS.
Does Pallon support the older ISYBAU 1996 and 2001 catalogues?
No. The ISYBAU data model still permits those older coding catalogues, but Pallon codes to DIN EN 13508-2 and DWA-M 149-2 in their ISYBAU variants instead. If your existing records use the older catalogues, talk to us about how they fit into your project.
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