Why can't I create vertical columns in section views, elevations etc?

[Richard_Morin83KL6]

Hi, I'm trying to recreated a drain that was made in HSS so I'm using structural columns but i'm having a hard time understanding how or why a vertical column cannot be placed in a section view as you would for piping? I have created model lines and can place the slanted columns but cannot select the model lines in neither 3D view or section. If I insert a ''slanted'' column on the vertical model line, it just skews my HSS and makes the faces of the drain not parallel with each other and slanted does not offer the option of rotating after placement. What approach should I be taking to recreated this? Thanks

[jay_colc]

To get this to works I always place a Reference Plane or Grid Line in Plan on the line i wish the Column to Follow and in the Section Set this as the Workplane, this should allow you to then pick Point  on that plane or Model Line ends.  I think the issue comes from 3D snapping in these environments/views

[nozci]

Edit the column family, make a copy and change the family type to beam.

[Richard_Morin83KL6]

Still very new to Revit so forgive my beginner understanding, maybe i'm just not understanding how grids actually work in this scenario but aren't they more for locational points for the centre of columns? I am not drawing a structure per say so the members and are all variable etc and drawing it in top view is sort of redundant. Why can't I just open a section, draft a ''path'' with model lines and lay structural members along the path? I need to see the paths shape as there is alot of wrapping around members and angles coming into play with the piping around the bridge.   How can I get the program to acknowledge I am drawing on a same plane whether the members are vertical or angled. the points are all drawn consecutively in the same view so why is it changing it to a skewed plane as soon as I draw a straight line along the Y axis? Thanks again.

 

[ToanDN]

Placing beams by 3d snapping and picking model lines. Or create in place sweep which isight be the easiest way.

[Richard_Morin83KL6]

I ended up just going with a duct since I was easily able to create the path and have a visible square representation similar to an HSS. This was for inventory purposes only so it was good enough for the task at hand. Thank you for all the help and suggestions.