How to Import AutoCAD File in Revit 2016?

Step-by-Step Guide to Import an AutoCAD File into Revit 2016

Importing an AutoCAD file into Revit is a crucial step for professionals in the architecture and construction industries. The process allows you to leverage existing designs while creating a sophisticated Building Information Model (BIM). Here’s how to do it effectively.

Prepping Your AutoCAD File

Before you begin the import process, ensure your AutoCAD file is well-prepared:

1. Cleanup: Open your AutoCAD file and remove unnecessary layers or elements to simplify the drawing. Aim for a clean file with only essential details.
2. Coordinate System: Check that the drawing is properly aligned to a known coordinate system. This is crucial for accurate placement within Revit.
3. Save the File: Save your cleaned AutoCAD drawing, ensuring it is compatible with Revit (preferably save as DWG or DXF format).

Importing the AutoCAD File

Follow these steps to import your AutoCAD file into Revit:

1. Open Revit: Start by opening the Revit project or family where you want to import the AutoCAD file.
2. Go to the Insert Tab: In Revit, click on the ‘Insert’ tab located at the top of the interface.
3. Access Import CAD: Under the Import panel, click on the ‘Import CAD’ option. This will prompt a dialog box.
4. Select the File Type: In the dialog box, choose the appropriate file type from the ‘Files of type’ dropdown menu (for example, DWG).
5. Locate Your AutoCAD File: Navigate through your folders to find and select the AutoCAD file you prepared earlier.
6. Set Import Options: Before clicking ‘Open’, review the import options:
   • Positioning: Choose how you want to place the file (e.g., Auto Origin to Origin).
   • Colors: Decide if you want to maintain the original colors or convert everything to black and white.
   • Layers: Select specific layers to import, or import all as needed.
7. Click Open: After configuring the options, click the ‘Open’ button to import the file into Revit.

Managing Imported CAD Files

After import, you may need to manage the CAD file effectively:

1. Visibility Control: Use Revit’s visibility settings to manage how imported CAD files appear on the drawing. Access the ‘Visibility/Graphics’ dialog from the ‘View’ tab to toggle visibility of certain layers.
2. Modify if Necessary: If you want to make changes to or delete parts of your imported CAD drawing, select the imported elements and use the toolbar options to modify or delete.
3. Purge Unused Content: To keep your Revit model clean, use the ‘Purge Unused’ option found under the ‘Manage’ tab to remove any elements that are no longer necessary.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, problems may arise during or after the import process:

• Linked CAD Files Not Showing: Ensure that the geometry within the AutoCAD file is not positioned outside the Revit’s 20-mile limit from the internal origin. Correct the positioning in AutoCAD if needed.
• File Appearing Blank: Verify that the CAD file has been set to the correct visibility settings within Revit’s ‘Visibility/Graphics’ options. Also, inspect layers to ensure they are not hidden.
• Import Quality: If the imported geometry appears distorted, revisit your AutoCAD file and simplify geometry where necessary or make adjustments to the drawing dimension.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I import other CAD formats besides DWG into Revit?
Yes, Revit can import various CAD formats, including DXF, DGN from MicroStation, SAT, and SKP files from SketchUp.

2. Is it possible to edit an imported AutoCAD file directly in Revit?
No, imported AutoCAD files cannot be directly edited in Revit. You would need to modify the original AutoCAD drawing and re-import it into Revit.

3. How do layers from AutoCAD files behave once imported into Revit?
When imported, layers from AutoCAD can be controlled within Revit’s visibility settings, allowing you to turn individual layers on or off as needed.