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When should you use MEP Fabrication Parts instead of native Revit model elements? Here’s a practical guide to choosing the right tool at the right time.
What each option is best at
- Native Revit (duct/pipe/fittings): Ideal for early and detailed design, quick routing, analytical sizing, and documentation. Best for LOD 200–300 deliverables and coordination.
- Fabrication Parts (ITMs): Ideal for constructability, precise lengths/jointing, manufacturer-driven content, hanger workflows, and downstream CAM/spooling. Best for LOD 350–400 and shop deliverables.
Workflow recommendations by phase
- Concept/SD/DD: Route with native elements for speed, system analysis, and design iterations. Lock design intent with View Templates and routing preferences.
- CD/Pre-Fab: Convert targeted systems to Fabrication Parts for real-world spec, joint rules, and exact lengths. Maintain native elements for systems still in flux.
- Shop/Fab: Author/validate entirely in Fabrication Parts for accurate procurement, BOMs, and CAM exports.
Getting conversion right
- Before converting, set a vetted Fabrication Configuration and Service (Manage > MEP Fabrication Settings). Confirm specs, gauges, pressure classes, insulation, and liner rules.
- Use Systems > MEP Fabrication Parts > Convert to swap native runs to ITMs. Convert a pilot area first to verify fittings, jointing, and clearance.
- Avoid mixing on the same run. If you must, insert explicit transition parts and verify connector compatibility.
- Post-conversion, use the Part Editor to fix odd angles, notches, and couplings; run Optimize Lengths where appropriate.
Analysis and documentation considerations
- Analysis: Native elements support sizing and many Revit analysis features. Fabrication Parts may limit certain analytical workflows—finish analysis before conversion.
- Scheduling: For Fabrication, schedule Item Number, Service, Material, Gauge, Length, and Cost fields. For native, rely on System Type, Flow, Velocity, and calculated values.
- Graphics: Use View Templates to control Detail Level. Coarse/Medium typically speeds Fabrication-heavy views; apply Filters for Services and Phases.
Coordination and downstream deliverables
- Leverage Fabrication hangers and supports where shop coordination is required; verify clearance with Clash/Interference Check.
- Export Fabrication Parts to CAM (.maj) for downstream tools and shop workflows. Ensure your content is aligned with vendor capabilities.
- Use Assemblies and consistent Item Numbering to support spool drawing workflows; many teams pair Revit with shop add-ins for spooling.
Performance and model health
- Fabrication Parts are heavier. Segment views with Scope Boxes, limit links’ loaded views, and keep detail levels appropriate.
- Maintain clean Services; purge obsolete ITMs from your configuration source, not just the Revit model.
- Audit regularly and standardize browser organization to separate Design vs Fabrication views and schedules.
Team and standards tips
- Publish a one-page handoff checklist: which systems convert, target Services/specs, spool conventions, and approval gates.
- Train designers to recognize fittings that won’t convert cleanly (exotic angles, tight bends) and to route with fabrication-friendly geometry.
- Source licensed tools, content, and expert guidance from NOVEDGE; they can help you align Revit, Autodesk Fabrication, and add-ins.
Need help standing up a robust Fabrication configuration, content libraries, or CAM exports? Talk to NOVEDGE. If you’re refining your native design workflows before conversion, NOVEDGE can also recommend proven add-ins and training paths.
