How to Change Arc to Polyline in AutoCAD?

Converting an Arc to a Polyline in AutoCAD

To change an arc into a polyline in AutoCAD, follow the detailed steps below to ensure a smooth conversion process. This method is particularly useful for when you want to manipulate the geometry of arcs as part of a polyline.

Step-by-Step Guide to Convert an Arc to a Polyline

1. Access the Command Line:
   Open AutoCAD 2025 and bring up the command line where you can enter commands.

2. Initiate the PEDIT Command:
   Type PEDIT and press Enter. This command allows you to edit polylines and arcs, among other drawing objects.

3. Select the Arc:
   You will be prompted to select an object. Click on the arc that you want to convert to a polyline.

4. Choose the Multiple Option:
   After selecting the arc, type M for Multiple and press Enter. This option enables you to select multiple objects for conversion if needed.

5. Convert to Polyline:
   When prompted, type Y to confirm that you want to convert the selected lines, arcs, or splines to polylines. This step is crucial for changing the arc into a polyline format.

6. Set the Precision:
   You will be asked to specify the precision for the conversion. Enter a value between 0 and 99, depending on how detailed you want the polyline to be, then press Enter.

7. Finishing Up:
   To exit the PEDIT command, simply press the Esc key. At this point, you should have successfully converted the arc to a polyline.

Additional Tips for Working with Polylines

• Editing the New Polyline: Once converted, you can edit the polyline using options like Edit Vertex or adjust the widths along the polyline using the Width function.

• Closing the Polyline: If you need to create a closed shape, use the C option when finishing the polyline.

• Saving Your Work: Don’t forget to save your drawing after making changes to avoid losing your work.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I revert a polyline back into an arc?
Yes, you can convert a polyline back to an arc using specific editing commands depending on your requirements, but the process may depend on the original geometry of the polyline segment.

2. How does the precision setting affect the polyline?
The precision setting determines how closely the polyline matches the original arc. A higher precision value will result in a more complex polyline that closely follows the curve of the arc, while a lower value will create a simpler, more angular approximation.

3. Are there any limitations when converting arcs to polylines?
Yes, while converting arcs to polylines, keep in mind that certain properties of the original arc, such as its curvature, may change, depending on the precision and settings chosen during the conversion process.