Placing MEP objects into Revit with CAD Blocks.

[clint.hatcher]

I was wondering if it was possible to import a CAD dwg file with blocks on it, and place the blocks as MEP objects in the model. (I'm not familiar with this process what so ever.) For example, having a large damper, or water pump block in CAD that I want to import into revit to automatically place the object within the model according to the parameters in the block.
Is this possible?
If not, what are some possibilites for placing plumbing items; toilets, sinks, baths, etc. in the same manner?

Thanks,

[RevitNinja]

Sure, its possible. What's wrong with Revit's water heater?

[clint.hatcher]

Nothing is wrong, I'm just trying to figure out a faster way to place objects via translation from cad within revit. I guess my main question, is would it be more effective time-wise to place objects in revit with this command or not?

[kyle.bernhardt]

CAD Blocks are not 3D Parametric Families like other Revit objects, and aren't going to help you meet your BIM goals for the project. If you're simply looking for 2D CAD output with no intelligence in your models, you're fine with that approach, but why use Revit MEP if that's all you're seeking?

In the long run, you'll want to be creating, or obtaining from other sources, a library of Parametric Families to meet your modeling needs. There's a bunch of resources out there for content like Autodesk Seek. Even manufacturers like McQuay, York, Titus, Lightolier and Visa Lighting are offering Revit Families for you folks.

The more you as the community demand that as an offering from the manufacturers you specify, the more that will become available.

Cheers,
Kyle B

[clint.hatcher]

Thanks kyle, I was looking for some feedback about what was possible.
Appreciate the help, and that's the direction I was steering.

[mwiggins121466]

Clint,

I have also seen problems with CAD information in Revit models. As a rule of thumb we try to have only native Revit information in our models.

[framedNlv]

If you're simply looking for 2D CAD output with no intelligence in your models, you're fine with that approach, but why use Revit MEP if that's all you're seeking?



Cheers,
Kyle B

BANG....that is the exact quote I was looking for.

Chris

[steve922542]

I was wondering if it was possible to import a CAD dwg file with blocks on it, and place the blocks as MEP objects in the model. ...

Yes, but don't import them directly into the model. Import them into new families of the appropriate discipline. This will give you the control of placement (wall, floor based) and visibility that you would expect.

As others have mentioned, use this as a stop gap on your way to developing wholly Revit based content, even if it is just drawing revit lines over the CAD you have imported.