How To Fix PM162 - Loops in the hierarchy structure not allowed

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: PM - Extended Payment Functions

• Message number: 162

• Message text: Loops in the hierarchy structure not allowed

What causes this issue?

Cash deconcentration occurs within one of the hierarchy specified by
table TTRCD. The structure of this hierarchy corresponds to one of
header trees: One or more bank accounts have exactly one superior
clearing account. The same applies one level higher: One or more
clearing accounts have exactly one superior clearing account. The target
account is settled on the highest hierarchy level. It is therefore the
clearing account on the highest hierarchy level.
No loops are allowed within this structure as otherwise the algorithm
for optimizing the account balances runs in an endless loop.
Optimization must always go from the bottom to the target account at the
top of the hierarchy specified. The simplest loop occurs when the bank
account and the corresponding clearing account are identical.
In this case, such a loop was discovered in the hierarchy.

System Response

The system issues an error message and will not allow you to continue with this transaction until the error is resolved.

How to fix this error?

Check account table TTRCD.
Correct the incorrect entries.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message PM162 - Loops in the hierarchy structure not allowed ?

  The SAP error message PM162, which states "Loops in the hierarchy structure not allowed," typically occurs in the context of SAP Plant Maintenance (PM) or SAP Project System (PS) when there is an issue with the hierarchical structure of objects, such as functional locations, equipment, or project structures. This error indicates that there is a circular reference in the hierarchy, meaning that an object is indirectly referencing itself, which is not allowed in hierarchical structures.
  Cause:
  
  Circular References: The most common cause of this error is the presence of circular references in the hierarchy. For example, if Functional Location A is assigned to Functional Location B, and Functional Location B is assigned back to Functional Location A, this creates a loop.
  Incorrect Assignments: Sometimes, incorrect or unintended assignments of objects can lead to loops. This can happen during manual data entry or when importing data from external sources.
  Hierarchy Changes: Changes made to the hierarchy structure, such as moving or reassigning objects, can inadvertently create loops.
  
  Solution:
  
  Identify the Loop: Use transaction codes like IH01 (Functional Location Hierarchy) or IE03 (Display Equipment) to visualize the hierarchy and identify where the loop exists.
  Check Assignments: Review the assignments of the objects involved in the hierarchy. Look for any circular references and correct them by reassigning the objects appropriately.
  Use Hierarchy Tools: Utilize SAP tools or reports that can help identify and visualize the hierarchy structure to pinpoint the exact location of the loop.
  Data Correction: Once the loop is identified, correct the data by removing or changing the assignments that create the loop. Ensure that each object points to a valid parent without creating a circular reference.
  Testing: After making changes, test the hierarchy to ensure that the error no longer occurs and that the structure is functioning as intended.
  
  Related Information:
  
  Transaction Codes: Familiarize yourself with relevant transaction codes such as IH01, IH02, IH03, IE01, IE02, and IE03 for managing functional locations and equipment.
  Documentation: Refer to SAP documentation or help files for detailed information on managing hierarchies in PM and PS.
  SAP Notes: Check SAP Notes for any known issues or patches related to this error message, as there may be specific fixes or recommendations provided by SAP.
  User Roles: Ensure that users have the appropriate roles and permissions to make changes to the hierarchy structure, as this can affect their ability to resolve the issue.
  
  By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the PM162 error and maintain a valid hierarchy structure in your SAP system.