What Is Burst Command in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Burst Command in AutoCAD

The Burst command in AutoCAD serves a specific purpose when working with attribute blocks, offering a unique method to manage blocks and their contents. By using this command, users can explode selected blocks without losing valuable information contained within them.

What Does the Burst Command Do?

When the Burst command is executed on a block, it effectively explodes the selected block while ensuring that the block’s original layer assignments remain intact. This means that the inserted block components will take on the same layer as the block itself rather than returning to their default layer settings. A significant feature of the Burst command is its treatment of attribute values. Instead of transforming attributes into their underlying tag values, it converts attributes into text objects, preserving the visible information that was displayed in the original block.

How Does Burst Differ from Explode?

Both the Burst and Explode commands aim to break down blocks into their component parts, but they do so in fundamentally different ways. The Explode command takes attribute blocks and alters their content—it changes attributes to their original tag values. This can lead to loss of the user-friendly text that was displayed, making it challenging to work with the exploded components. In contrast, the Burst command maintains the integrity of the visible text, providing a clear and accurate transition from a block to its component parts.

Steps to Use the Burst Command

To utilize the Burst command in AutoCAD effectively, follow these steps:

1. Open your drawing: Launch AutoCAD and open the drawing containing the block you wish to burst.

2. Select the block: Use your mouse to select the block you would like to burst.

3. Input the Burst Command: Type BURST into the command line and press Enter.

4. Confirm the burst: Once the Burst command has been executed, check the results. The attribute values should now appear as text objects instead of their original tag values.

5. Inspect Layer Assignments: Verify that all individual components of the block are residing on the correct layer, as defined by the original block.

Common Commands in AutoCAD

AutoCAD comes with a myriad of commands designed to enhance user efficiency. Some frequently used commands include:

• Copy (Ctrl+C): Duplicates selected objects.
• Paste (Ctrl+V): Inserts copied data into the drawing.
• Undo (Ctrl+Z): Reverts the last action taken.
• Redo (Ctrl+Y): Reapplies the last action that was undone.

Understanding Blocks and Their Usage

A block in AutoCAD is a collection of objects that are combined into a single object. Blocks are used to simplify the drawing process and to ensure consistency in repeated design elements. They can be inserted multiple times throughout a drawing or across other drawings.

FAQ Section

1. Can I undo the Burst command?
   Yes, if you accidentally burst a block and want to revert to the original, you can use the Undo command (Ctrl+Z) immediately after bursting the block.

2. Are there scenarios where I should prefer using the Explode command instead?
   If you need to access the underlying tag values of attribute blocks for documentation purposes, the Explode command may be more beneficial.

3. How can I ensure my block can be exploded in AutoCAD 2025?
   You need to check the properties of the block in the Block Editor. Ensure that the "Allow Exploding" option is set to Yes in the Properties palette before saving the block definition.