Streamline MEP Fabrication: Autodesk Revit to AutoCAD MEP and DuctMaker Workflow

Updated at: 25/06/2025

Streamlining MEP fabrication workflows is crucial for efficiency and profitability. This article details a powerful process leveraging Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD MEP, and DuctMaker. We'll explore how to seamlessly transfer models from Revit, utilize AutoCAD MEP's powerful tools, and finally, leverage DuctMaker for precise fabrication drawings. Discover how this integrated approach minimizes errors, saves time, and enhances overall project delivery.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Configure Part Manager

    • Set up Manufacturer Defaults in Part Manager.
    • one 'free' (all parameters primary) and one 'standard' (shop standards applied as secondary parameters).
    • In the standard default, set shop standards for fittings as secondary parameters to ensure consistency regardless of engineer's drawings.
    In the standard default, set shop standards for fittings as secondary parameters to ensure consistency regardless of engineer's drawings. In the standard default, set shop standards for fittings as secondary parameters to ensure consistency regardless of engineer's drawings. In the standard default, set shop standards for fittings as secondary parameters to ensure consistency regardless of engineer's drawings.
    Configure Part Manager

  2. Enable Revit Integration in Fabrication for AutoCAD MEP

    • Enable the 'MEP Design to Fabrication' feature in Fabrication for AutoCAD MEP.
    • Verify the Revit feature is enabled by typing 'op' (for options) in the command line and checking the 'Revit Feature Enabled' option under the EC Tools tab. Restart AutoCAD MEP if necessary.
    Verify the Revit feature is enabled by typing 'op' (for options) in the command line and checking the 'Revit Feature Enabled' option under the EC Tools tab. Restart AutoCAD MEP if necessary. Verify the Revit feature is enabled by typing 'op' (for options) in the command line and checking the 'Revit Feature Enabled' option under the EC Tools tab. Restart AutoCAD MEP if necessary.
    Enable Revit Integration in Fabrication for AutoCAD MEP

  3. Set up Duct Fabrication Preferences

    • Set up Duct Fabrication Preferences.
    • Choose the appropriate manufactured default and specification (e.g., EC Rex standards with 2in water gauge) from the Fabricate dropdown.
    Choose the appropriate manufactured default and specification (e.g., EC Rex standards with 2in water gauge) from the Fabricate dropdown. Choose the appropriate manufactured default and specification (e.g., EC Rex standards with 2in water gauge) from the Fabricate dropdown.
    Set up Duct Fabrication Preferences

  4. Import Revit Data

    • Import data from Revit using MEP Design to Fabrication.
    Import data from Revit using MEP Design to Fabrication.
    Import Revit Data
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Tips

  • Create separate defaults for rectangular, round, and oval fittings.
  • Use the visibility button to select only the necessary fittings when setting up a default.
  • For the free default, set all parameters to primary to maintain the engineer's original data.
  • Use the EC Star drawing template (version 5.0) for optimal results, but you can transfer settings to your own template later.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent Units and Scales

Reason: Using different units (e.g., millimeters in Revit and inches in AutoCAD) or scales between Revit and AutoCAD models leads to significant inaccuracies in the fabricated components.
Solution: Ensure consistent units and scales are used throughout the entire Revit to AutoCAD MEP and DuctMaker workflow.

2. Improper Data Transfer and Coordination

Reason: Failing to properly transfer data between Revit and AutoCAD, or neglecting to coordinate changes made in one software with the other, results in discrepancies and errors in fabrication drawings.
Solution: Implement a robust data transfer process and establish a clear communication protocol between Revit and AutoCAD users.

FAQs

Why use AutoCAD MEP and DuctMaker after modeling in Revit?
While Revit excels at 3D modeling, AutoCAD MEP offers superior detail control for fabrication drawings, particularly for complex systems. DuctMaker further streamlines the process by automating the creation of fabrication-ready ductwork drawings from AutoCAD MEP data, reducing manual drafting time and errors.
What are the potential challenges in transferring data between Revit, AutoCAD MEP, and DuctMaker?
Data loss or corruption can occur if the models aren't properly prepared for transfer. Ensuring proper naming conventions, family loading, and thorough model cleaning in Revit are crucial. Checking for and resolving any geometry or parameter inconsistencies before exporting to AutoCAD MEP is also vital.