XS CAD Revit MEP Modeling

platforms had remained limited. For instance, when the ductwork model files designed in Revit had to be used for fabrication purposes on related software, due to its incompatibility on these softwares, the duct layouts had to be re-modelled leading to time delays and a more expensive fabrication process, resulting in fabrication errors which can have negative implications while assembling the ductwork.

To overcome the limitations for fabrication, Autodesk updated Revit features for ductwork modelling in its latest version - Revit 2017. Revit 2017 now has tools to design duct fabrication which are included within the package. This enables designers and modellers to create the ductwork models, layouts and designs for the entire project lifecycle, including fabrication teams. The files which have wider compatibility for fabrication tools such as FABMEP help designers and modellers to design ductwork seamlessly over various platforms and save the project in a single file without affecting the actual design. Historically, this level of interoperability has not been experienced from design, detailing and finally through to fabrication and in the future - facilities management.

In summary, Revit MEP is an established tool for ductwork modeling and it does address the core elements of a ductwork system and allow a reasonably sound set of design drawings to be issued.

The challenge for fabrication from Revit was always a concern and as briefly discussed, Autodesk have now started to address this and we are seeing fabrication interoperability at last. Added to this is the fact that Revit is working more closely with fabrication tools in its own right and therefore the fabrication (manufacturing) industry is now starting adoption of Revit models in a way that has not previously been experienced. The end game will surely mean accurate designs, delivered faster and therefore more efficiently - helping to reduce costs and improve timescales in the engineering and building industry.