ABS vs Quickpen?

[jamese]

As most of you know, the ABS piping library has some limitations and was wondering if anyone can provide solutions to the ABS content? I was looking into Pipe Designer 3D as a possible option to file the void, but would like some suggestions. Is Revit MEP a possible solution?

[david_peterson]

I'm not sure about the new version, but the Mech pipe module of Revit System didn't exist before. I'm not sure if they've gotten that up and running yet.

[jamese]

I understand Revit MEP is progressing, but from what I hear it still needs more to go. I am told that the content is not even up to par with ABS?

[david_peterson]

I can't speak about the current release, but the previous one didn't even have any piping available. The duct tool looked like it work well though. I don't know how well it would have worked on a large MEP intensive project, but the Hvac and Electrical sections seemed like they would be good.

[jamese]

So, here is another point and really the main reason I"m asking these questions. AutoCAD MEP requires content. In particular as it pertains to plumbing - DWV - No Hub - Cast Iron fittings. My background is electrical, so I'm basing this on feedback. What I'm told is that the quantity of variations in this area is extensive, and I am hesitant to spend a tremendous amount of time adding this content, only to find out I have to do it all over again in Revit, once the product matures. I am interested in taking the path of least resistance. I hear some contractors use Quick-pen, so I'm really polling to find out what are the options users are taking to solve and fill this gap.

[david_peterson]

I'm not an mep guy at all, so I can't tell you much about what else is out there. I do know of a group that is using "Plant 4D". They work mostly on Pharma Production and Process plants. Very piping intensive. I guess the point that I'll make is that there are so many variations, that I don't think that Adesk is going to provide them all. What ever content you find in AMEP will most likely end up in Revit. They did it with the detail component manager, so I'd guess they do the same thing here. I will agree that Revit and ADT we short on OOTB content. I'm not sure what it's like creating the MEP content, but I know the structural stuff was easy to do in ADT. When we had to create content in Revit, I found that to be difficult. But I don't really know what I'm doing. My suggestion for the piping guys is to either pick up a 3rd party add on to Plain Jane Acad, such as a Plant 4d type product, and wait. Or, you could go all out and spend tons of time creating content that'll you'll get to recreate in Revit when they get the pipeing section done. Just 2 more cents.

[jamese]

I appreciate the feed back. Thanks.

[rb.72855]

I don't know a lot about Quick pen however The Waldinger Corporation use to use Quick pen for Design Build and now they are using ABS. Hope this helps.