Speeding up HVAC drawing

[ahawks]

I work for a small design/build firm that works primarily on large, custom residential buildings. The majority of our design work is done in 2D because the majority of our plans come in 2D from the architects.

 

I was wondering what the best way to speed up our duct drawing would be? We are currently running MEP 2014 but only use it for the straight cad portion of it. We don't have any blocks for the fittings or routines to draw multiple lines at once. We are open to pretty much anything at this point, whether it's developing or purchasing a set of blocks, lisp routines, plug-ins, etc.

 

Thanks in advance!

[ReMark]

There is a lisp routine that I know of that will draw a duct using two lightweight polylines. Bends can be mitered, segmented or drawn with a radius. Does that sound like something you might be interested in?

[tzframpton]

I have used this LISP routine for years on my 2D work:

http://www.cadtutor.net/forum/showthread.php?30545-*FREE*-HVAC-or-Piping-program-for-AutoCAD

 

But, since you have AutoCAD MEP, you can utilize it as well. What's good, is that you can use AutoCAD MEP as a "hybrid" CAD design program. Use the duct tool for running double lined duct, etc, and then use standard AutoCAD methods for the rest. The more you use AutoCAD MEP the faster you'll get and overall better outputs.

 

We do have a specific AutoCAD MEP forum here as well.

 

Welcome to the forum!

[ReMark]

I knew Tanner would show up sooner or later. Thank goodness because I only have a vague idea how the program functions. Word of advice...when you get to the end of your run don't hit Cancel; hit Enter.

[ReMark]

Sample output using the WPIPE.lsp routine.

See, I told you I had no idea how to run duct.

I use the program to draw soda straws.

[tzframpton]

Wow look at that ductwork, haha!! I need to pass this image around the office to give our engineers a heart attack, lol.

 

jk, I know you are just testing it out.

[ReMark]

Reminds me of the game Chutes and Ladders without the ladders.

 

Yeah, testing 1..2..3..testing.

 

So I guess the user can also change sizes on the fly as well? Say I want to transition from a 6" to an 8" duct.

[tzframpton]

So I guess the user can also change sizes on the fly as well? Say I want to transition from a 6" to an 8" duct.

Most definitely.

[ReMark]

Is there any other feature I failed to notice you'd like to call to our attention?

[tzframpton]

The only other thing of significance is the fact you can set the mitered fitting throat length, and the nominal centerline radius of the radius fittings. I have set macro's for these "presets" for short radius/long radius fitting duct, and short throat fittings. They are on a Tool Palette which acts like a "tool icon" for quick access.