Ductwork/DW144 UK

[Sammyinnit]

Hi, is was thinking about getting into CAD/Drafting, but specifically wanted to look at duct work. I'm currently working as an on-site fitter, but have basic CAD experience from previous work experience placements. But I don't know where to start. What libraries are used, how would you start a drawing etc

 

 

Any help is appreciated

[ReMark]

Some programs come with their own libraries while others may require you to build your own or buy something created by a third-party.

 

What programs are you looking at? I'd think AutoCAD MEP might be one way to go.

 

You might try a search of this site using the words "duct work" and see what similar threads have been posted.

[Sammyinnit]

From videos I've seen on you tube of MEP, the only thing that puts me off is alot of the duct libraries within it don't match DW144. Eg, Mez/Metu flanges, 1500 standard lengths. Is this programmable within MEP?

[ReMark]

Sorry, I am not familiar with the standard libraries MEP ships with.

[tzframpton]

From videos I've seen on you tube of MEP, the only thing that puts me off is alot of the duct libraries within it don't match DW144. Eg, Mez/Metu flanges, 1500 standard lengths. Is this programmable within MEP?

Yes, you can make proper adjustments but remember this is not considered design to fabrication software. You can specify duct cut lengths, flange thicknesses/tolerances, the distances of elbow necks, etc, to give you a very accurate representation of real world dimensions while designing. There are a few great "add-ons" that is considered design to fabrication software, which being a sheet metal fitter, is exactly what you would be very good at eventually. Learning AutoCAD MEP will take some time. Once you get it down, then look into design to fabrication software. This is where you will literally build fabrication ready duct drawings that can be imported directly into a plasma cutter and it will go to town.

 

These types of software applications are extremely detailed with all the parameters for fabrication purposes which means only people with actual experience in a sheet metal fab shop will know these parameters. It will take a while to dig into the settings and create your templates for the different types of sheet metal requirements per job and I will admit it can be quite the task. Don't let that scare you off, it's just me making sure you realize this is not something you'll learn and be efficient at in 3 months. Once you get a good grasp on everything then you will see great designs and efficiency in your CAD work.

 

**EDIT**

Here are some "design to fab" links:

 

CAD-Duct

http://www.technicalsalesinternational.com/v2008/cad-duct.php

 

Eastcoast CAM

http://www.eccadcam.com/software_solutions/sheet_metal.shtml