How To Delete A Block In AutoCAD 2018?

Steps to Delete a Block in AutoCAD 2018

Removing blocks from an AutoCAD drawing is a straightforward process, and understanding the various methods to do so can enhance your efficiency within the software. Here is a detailed guide on how to delete blocks specifically in AutoCAD 2018.

Utilizing the PURGE Command

1. Initiate the Command:
   Start by typing PURGE in the command bar and press Enter. This command is designed to help you remove unused objects, including blocks, from your drawing.

2. Select Purgeable Items:
   Upon activation of the PURGE command, you’ll be presented with options regarding the types of objects to include. You can choose to include nested items or orphaned objects that aren’t directly referenced in your current drawing.

3. Choose Specific Objects:
   You will have the option to choose from a list of block definitions and other purgeable entities. You can either type the name of the specific block you wish to remove or use the wildcard * to select all blocks.

4. Confirm Your Selection:
   After deciding which blocks to remove, confirm your selections. You might be prompted for any unused items to retain or delete.

5. Execute the Purge:
   Finally, press Enter to execute the purge. This will permanently delete the selected blocks and any other unwanted entities.

Removing Block Definitions

1. Accessing Drawing Utilities:
   Click on the application menu located in the upper-left corner of the AutoCAD interface. Navigate to Drawing Utilities and then select Purge.

2. Exploring Purgeable Items:
   A dialog box will appear listing various items that can be purged from your drawing. Ensure that you check the option to view blocks.

3. Select Which Blocks to Purge:
   You will see a list of block definitions used in the drawing. Go through this list to identify the block definitions you wish to delete.

4. Confirm and Purge:
   Click on the Purge Checked Items button to confirm your selection. You can also select additional items if needed. When done, close the dialog box.

Manual Deletion of Blocks from the Drawing

1. Select the Block:
   Activate the Select tool and click on the block you want to delete in the drawing area.

2. Delete the Block:
   Press the Delete key on your keyboard or right-click and choose Erase from the context menu. This method effectively removes the block instance from your drawing.

3. Confirm Deletion:
   If required, ensure that the block is removed and check for any additional instances that may need deletion.

Clearing Nested Blocks

1. Open the Purge Dialog:
   Use the PURGE command as mentioned earlier. Make sure to expand the blocks section by double-clicking on it to view nested blocks as well.

2. Select Nested Items:
   Look for the option to select nested items within the dialog. Enable this to include all levels of blocks in the purge process.

3. Execute the Purge Again:
   Like before, confirm your selections and execute the purge to delete all selected blocks, including nested ones.

FAQs

Q1: Can I recover a deleted block in AutoCAD?
A1: Once a block is purged using the PURGE command, it cannot be recovered unless you have a backup of the drawing file or use the Undo command immediately after deletion.

Q2: What happens to associated attributes when I delete a block?
A2: When a block containing attributes is deleted, the associated attributes are also removed from the drawing, along with any data linked to them.

Q3: How do I check for unused blocks before purging?
A3: Use the BLOCK command to open the Block Palette, where you can find all blocks used in the drawing. Unused blocks will not appear there, helping you identify what can be purged.