topic Re: Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files in Revit Architecture Forum

Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files

johnal_l — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 19:42:37 GMT

We will be linking in approximately 20 CAD files and I've been instructed to use/create a "Revit CAD Model" that will reduce the size of our Central File, make it run more efficiently, and reduce the number of possible "issues" that can occur when working in a Revit project. The idea is to have a Revit model that will be used solely for linking in CAD files and then link that Revit model into our central.

The instruction guide I received for this task is 4 years outdated. In an attempt to be thorough, I tried to search the web for similar guides or How-To videos on YouTube but I came up short. I'm beginning to wonder if this process is perhaps not as necessary as it once was.

Posting here to see if there is an ideal practice for linking in multiple CAD drawings -- not necessarily in terms of speed like one might accomplish with batch linking, but, in terms of stability and efficiency.

Thanks!

Current Revit Version: 2018.3

Re: Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files

RobDraw — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 20:15:26 GMT

That four year old document is probably still a valid approach.

Re: Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files

Anonymous — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 20:33:07 GMT

I'd be asking....why? Are they used for reference or documentation? If for reference and turned off, I wouldn't bother. If for documentation, keep it in Autocad...too many graphic issues from Revit's translation of DWG's.

Re: Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files

Sahay_R — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 21:06:21 GMT

I'm with @Anonymous on this. The relationship between DWG and RVT is too messy to be endured.

Re: Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files

ToanDN — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 21:12:05 GMT

The approaches varies depend on the purposes of the CAD files? Are they for reference to build the Revit model? Are they to be showing in the official documents in lieu of the Revit model? Are they other trades drawings for coordination with the Revit model?

Re: Creating a Revit CAD model for linking 15+ CAD Files

SteveKStafford — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 21:20:41 GMT

I think doing that is just an illusion of avoiding the possible issues associated with DWG files. It's trading one set of issues with different issues like dealing with By Linked View overrides to even be able to see the DWG information in the linked Revit file.

As others have written...what meaningful thing do you/they think it will accomplish?