How To Stop Dimensions From Exploding In AutoCAD?

Understanding Dimension Exploding in AutoCAD

When working with AutoCAD, one common issue that many users face is their dimensions exploding unexpectedly. This can lead to confusion and errors in your drawings. Fortunately, there are several strategies to prevent dimensions from exploding and to maintain the integrity of your designs.

Preemptive Measures to Prevent Dimension Exploding

1. Utilize Dimension Style Settings:
   Begin by establishing a consistent dimension style.

   • Type DIMSTYLE in the command line and press Enter.
   • In the Dimension Style Manager, either create a new style or modify an existing one.
   • Ensure that all options related to annotative properties are set correctly. This helps keep dimensions consistent across various scales.

2. Deactivate Exploding Options in Blocks:
   If you are working with blocks that may contain dimensions, you should adjust the settings for those blocks.

   • Open the block in the Block Editor.
   • With nothing selected, open the Properties palette using Ctrl + 1.
   • Find the “Allow Exploding” option under the Block section and ensure it is set to "No". This prevents dimensions from becoming explodable when the block is inserted.
3. Check Annotative Scales:
   Dimensions can behave differently based on the scale set in your drawing. To prevent undesired shrinking or exploding:
   • Ensure the current scale for your dimensions matches the viewport scale. This setting is found at the bottom right corner of the AutoCAD interface.
   • If your dimensions appear too small or do not display correctly, adjust the scale factor in the Dimension Style settings to correspond with your drawing’s requirements.

Handling Existing Exploded Dimensions

If your dimensions have already exploded, follow these steps to rectify the situation:

1. Rebuild Dimensions:
   Rather than trying to fix the exploded dimensions, which can be tedious and inaccurate, the best approach is to recreate them:

   • Use the DIMLINEAR, DIMANGULAR, or similar dimension commands to accurately replace the exploded snippets.
2. Use Burst Instead of Explode on Attributes:
   For attribute blocks, prefer using the BURST command instead of EXPLODE.
   • Burst retains the attribute text intact, while Explode converts it into basic text with potential alterations.

Confirming Layers and Text Sizes

Dimensions may become invisible or seem to disappear due to layer settings or text size issues.

• Layer Visibility: Double-check your layer settings to ensure the layers containing dimensions are turned on. If layers are locked or turned off, dimensions will not appear.
• Text Size Adjustments: If you can see the dimension lines but not the text, consider modifying your text style to ensure it is suitable for the current scale, enhancing visibility.

Steps to Lock Dimensions and Prevent Changes

To safeguard your dimensions from unintended modifications:

1. Lock Dimensions Within the Drawing:

   • Simply click on the lock icon next to the dimension in the drawing area.
   • If operating from the Family Types dialog, select the dimension, and navigate to the Properties panel to lock it from there.
2. Group Dimensions If Necessary:
   Grouping dimensions provides an additional layer of protection.
   • Select the relevant dimensions, right-click, and choose the option to create a group. Grouped dimensions are less likely to be accidentally modified or exploded.

FAQ Section

1. Why are my dimensions disappearing in AutoCAD?
Dimensions may disappear if layers are turned off or if the text size is set too small for the current viewport scale. Always check your layer visibility and text styles.

2. Can I prevent dimensions from exploding when using blocks?
Yes, preventing dimensions from exploding can be achieved by adjusting the "Allow Exploding" option to "No" in the Block Editor.

3. What is the difference between ‘burst’ and ‘explode’ in AutoCAD?
The BURST command maintains the attribute text as is, while EXPLODE alters the text into basic, editable content, potentially leading to loss of original formatting and data.