How to Generate BOM in AutoCAD Plant 3D?

Understanding BOM Generation in AutoCAD Plant 3D

Creating a Bill of Materials (BOM) in AutoCAD Plant 3D involves several organized steps to ensure accurate documentation of materials used in the design and layout of process plants. This guide provides detailed instructions for generating a BOM effectively in the latest version, AutoCAD 2025.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Project

Before generating a BOM, ensure that your project is properly set up. Open AutoCAD Plant 3D, and from the Project Manager, select the project you want to work with. It is crucial to have your 3D model complete, as the BOM will pull information directly from the objects included in your design.

Step 2: Accessing the BOM Report

1. Navigate to the Reports option in the main toolbar.
2. Select Bill of Materials from the dropdown menu.
3. A dialog box will appear, displaying the initial report configuration.

Step 3: Configuring the BOM Settings

1. In the BOM settings dialog, you will have various options to format your report:
   • Column Labels: Make sure to check the box for including column labels to give context to the data.
   • Title Options: Activate the option to include the current date and time in the report title for better reference.
2. Adjust any additional settings that fit your project requirements, such as filtering materials or selecting specific equipment.

Step 4: Placing the BOM on the Drawing

1. After configuring your BOM, look for the Put on Drawing button within the dialog.
2. Once clicked, your cursor will change to a crosshair indicating that you can place the BOM table directly onto your drawing canvas.
3. Determine the desired location in your drawing and click to position the BOM table.

Step 5: Finalizing the Report

1. After placing the BOM, you can make necessary adjustments to its formatting directly on the drawing. AutoCAD Plant 3D allows for manual edits, enabling you to rearrange columns or resize the table as needed.
2. Once satisfied with the placement and format, click the Close option in the Report Generator dialog to save your changes and exit.

Additional Features

For projects with specific needs, consider exploring advanced settings for the BOM within the Isometric Configuration File to include custom items or modify existing groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of items can be included in a BOM?
A BOM can include various components such as piping, valves, instruments, and any other items designed in the project. Each item contributes to the overall materials list required for construction or procurement.

Can I customize the BOM formatting within AutoCAD Plant 3D?
Yes, AutoCAD Plant 3D provides flexible formatting options, including the ability to modify column arrangements, add headers, and adjust font styles directly on the drawing area.

Is it possible to export the BOM to other formats?
AutoCAD Plant 3D allows you to export your BOM to formats such as CSV or Excel, making it easier to share with stakeholders or for further analysis.