Adding Some HVAC To Architectural;

[PhilvK]

I want to add some basic ductwork to my architectural model for coordination purposes, and to be able to show the client how the ductwork, which will be exposed, will look in their space via a camera view. The image below is an example of the level of detail I need, but I am having a heck of a time getting a simple rectangular grille to attach to the end of the short ducts tapped into the main one. Can anyone please tell me what family to look for?

Also, in your opinion would you add the ductwork directly to the architectural model which displays better, or create a separate Mech model which shows the Architectural model as shaded, but almost in wireframe making it hard to read?

[PhilvK]

Update: i found the family for the simple rectangular diffuser, but would still like an opinion on if you folks would do simple HVAC modeling in the Arch model, or Mech model.

[RDAOU · Accepted solution]

@PhilvK 

Personally I am in favor of doing Mechanical models using a the Mechanical template... then when needed can load that into the Architectural or vise versa...

The downside...if you are working on your own, you will need to manage 2 models and jump in between (unload/open/save/reload) whenever you need to change something.

The upside

1. working with a link gives you more flexibility (definitely more graphics option) -
2. you would be able to display views in a way which if you would have placed both disciplines in one model your option would be to overlay several views on sheets to achieve the same...
3. in a discipline specific template you would have the basic if not most of the discipline related components (ex: fittings and terminals) preloaded and you do not have to go nuts looking for them 
4. ...

As for your first question: Terminals are usually face based families...if properly modeled you shouldn't have much trouble placing them in 3D view....the one showing in the OP image does look Odd though 

[PhilvK]

Thank you for your input!

[PhilvK]

When in hidden line or shaded mode, why doesn't ductwork hide elements in the model that is linked into the ductwork model?

[RDAOU · Accepted solution]

@PhilvK 

Depends on how the Revit Link display settings are set (under Visibility Graphics) - If it is set to Underlay...uncheck the box ... apply setting ... then on the properties panel set the Discipline to coordination. 

Showing elements through is useful in Discipline views though...lots of services are placed with respect to elements from other disciplines. 

You can set up the display of the link either to host, or to linked or a custom mix between linked and Host model

[PhilvK]

I'm still fighting the visibility of link models. My main model is loaded into my HVAC project. It is transparent even though 'Underlay' is not checked when I go into visibility graphics. How do I turn transparency off please?

[RDAOU · Accepted solution]

@PhilvK 

Change discipline of the view?

[PhilvK]

Yep, that worked. Thanks!