User guide

M09 RELEASE

The application suite for fluid professionals

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1/2

Basic settings.........................................................03 Equipment bills ............................................................. 32

Treatment of architectural files .............................05 Computations and texts of water levels ...................... 34
Calculation of air network duct sizes....................06 Text ................................................................................ 35
Calculation of sanitary network pipe sizes...........07 Dimensioning ................................................................ 37
Handling thicknesses.............................................08 Modification commands ............................................... 38
Introduction to double line drawing......................09 Swapping one object with another.................................. 39
Structure of a conduit ............................................10 Changing pipe sizes................................................. 41
Operations on conduits..........................................11 Modify texts... .......................................................... 42
Double line air networks drafting..........................12 Deleting an object.................................................... 43
Double and single line drain drawing.................. 16 Moving an object or a conduit................................... 43
Drawing a single line set of pipes..........................20 Openings ....................................................................... 44
Drawing under slab piping.....................................25 Terminals....................................................................... 46
Network crossings.................................................29 Layout............................................................................ 47
Defining zones........................................................30 Calculation of pressure drops in a network................. 48
Network bills..........................................................31 Creation of a cross section ........................................... 49
...

Table of contents 2/2

TABLE OF CONTENTS 2/2

3D Transformation.................................................52
Link with Revit - RVT-CONNECT............................ 52
Link with Revit - How to export 2D plans..............53
2D network quality................................................... 56
Definition of terms .................................................. 57
Annotating the 2D network (levels) ....................... 61
Annotating the 2D network (water levels)............. 64
3D network creation................................................ 65
Creating 3D architectural elements........................ 68
3D views snapshots ............................................... 69
Modeling.................................................................. 70
Link with Revit - Importing a 3D network.............. 71
Contact (technical support, trainings) ..................73

Table of contents 1/2

BASIC SETTINGS 1/2

Set up AUTOFLUID for the floor plan you are going to work on. 1 - The working unit of the architect’s drawing
Two parameters must be set first: To find this value you can measure a simple door with the command «DIST»
in your CAD software.
Two values must be set first:
If the value reads approximately:
0.80 then the unit is METER
80.0 then the unit is CENTIMETER
800.0 then the unit is MILLIMETER

2 - The scale of the drawing

This is the scale that you will specify in the title block of your plan.

A few examples of the parameters AUTOFLUID can adjust, thanks to these 2

values:

• The size of texts

• The appearance of dimensioning

• The appearance of frames and leader lines

• The calculation of levels.

And more...

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BASIC SETTINGS 2/2

Other parameters can be set. Click on and name the

For instance:
new file.
• The list of layers
Change it according to your needs by navigating the preference settings.
• Colors, types of lines and thicknesses Once the changes are made the file can be imported by other users.
• The graphic style of the network It is possible to come back and modify your preferences further at a later
stage.
• Texts
Changes made on a .PREF file are not automatically updated in the DWG.
• Units

• Etc.

To change these parameters you must create a new preference file.

Create a new preference file
The preference file contains all the settings which run the AUTOFLUID
package.
The file extension is «PREF» settings.
You will use these as a basis to create your OWN preference.
Change the list of layers
AUTOFLUID runs with default BASE file.

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TREATMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL FILES

This module allows you to amend the structure of a file.

It is possible to change colours, to handle the Z coordinate of entities, to
isolate texts, hatches, dimensioning, etc…

DWG file treatment

Example:

File to work on: C:\archi\floor3.dwg

1. Open the file to treat. «C:\archi\floor3.dwg»
2. Launch the command
3. Choose options
4. Launch treatment.

At the end of the operation, verify that the file «C:\archi\Files treated by
AUTOFLUID\floor3.dwg» is correct and save it.
NB: The « Purge by WBLOCK » option will save the file under the same name.

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CALCULATION OF AIR NETWORK DUCT SIZES

Step 1 Step 2
Draw the skeleton of your network. Click on the flow(s).
Place the text indicating the flow. Confirm and place the text containing the selected added flows and the pipe
sizes.
Example:

Calculation of air network duct sizes

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CALCULATION OF SANITARY NETWORK PIPE SIZES

Step 1
Draw the skeleton of your network. Step 2
Place your flows using the command «calculation of typical flows».
Select the flow(s).
Example: Confirm and place the text containing the selected added flows and the pipe sizes.

Calculation of sanitary network pipe sizes

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HANDLING THICKNESSES

The thickness of each entity drafted with AUTOFLUID is automatically Whether in color or not, the relief of your drawing will be preserved.
managed to be compatible with basic CTB files (acad.ctb or monochrome.
ctb.) The above settings must be adjusted BEFORE drawing.
If you would like to change thicknesses AFTER drawing you can modify
them by using the following command:

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INTRODUCTION TO DOUBLE LINE DRAWING

GRAPHIC STRUCTURE OF A NETWORK DRAFTED WITH AUTOFLUID Each object contains information serving the following purposes:

Each entity created belongs to only one object. • Modifications on a network

There are 3 types of objects:
• Modifications on text
• Conduits (colored black) • Network bill
• Parts (colored blue) • Calculation of pressure drops
• Equipment (colored green)
Each part must be created using the appropriate command.
Otherwise the part may seem right graphically but the bill will be wrong and
the commands for quick modifications may not work correctly.

Structure of a network

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STRUCTURE OF A CONDUIT

THERE ARE 3 TYPES OF CONDUITS: • The «ADJUST» and the «BREAK» commands in your CAD software

• 3 lines with 1 axis (circular duct or tube)

• 2 lines (rectangular duct)
• 1 line or 1 polyline (single line)

When a circular conduit contains no additional information, it will only be

composed of 3 independent lines.
In AUTOFLUID, each line of the conduit acknowledges the 2 others. A partially cut conduit (2 out of 3 lines) will generate 2 conduits com-
For this reason all conduits must be properly structured. posed of 3 lines.

FACTORS THAT CAN ALTER THE STRUCTURE OF A CONDUIT: • Text on a line

• Crossings

If only the centre line of a conduit is cut with the “BREAK” command in
your CAD software then AUTOFLUID will generate 2 conduits composed
of 3 lines.

Structure of a conduit

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OPERATIONS ON CONDUITS

RE-BUILDING A CONDUIT OUT OF 2 PARTS

Select two conduits with a similar size and form one out of the two.

PREVIEWING THE STRUCTURE OF A CONDUIT

This allows all the conduits to turn into one colour and all the parts into another colour. If a conduit contains wrong information or if it is badly structured
then it will turn red.
When this happens you must re-structure the conduit.

RE-STRUCTURING A CONDUIT:

Select the lines that form the conduit and specify the pipe size.
This information will be updated and the conduit will be acknowledged by all the commands.
Operations on aeraulic
and hydraulic conduits

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DOUBLE LINE AIR NETWORKS DRAFTING 1/4

The duct below can be drafted in 4 steps:

LET’S USE THE EXAMPLE OF A CIRCULAR DUCT
There are 3 types of commands in this tool bar:

1. The routing command lets you draft circular ducts regardless

of the shape of the network.

It contains many options (elbows, reducers, etc.) to model ducts while

building them.
The command also takes into account layer management when
drafting and allows the insertion of text relating to the drawing.

2. The pick up commands allow you to «hook»

onto a pipe you’ve already drawn and then
continue building on it.

3. All the other commands are intermittent or dressing commands.

Examples: Elbow, Tee, Break…

Damper, Insulation, Fire protection…

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DOUBLE LINE DRAFTING AIR NETWORKS 2/4

Step 1 Step 2
Start with the longest section and continue to the end of a branch (All the Pick up again from a diverging piece and as in part 1, continue until the end
way to the cap). of the branch.

Double line air networks drafting 1/10

Double line air networks drafting 2/10

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DOUBLE LINE DRAFTING AIR NETWORKS 3/4

Step 3
Create each of the branches - This can be done in 2 ways:

1. Start from the register and work your way towards the main duct (it is compulsory in the case of a flexible duct).

2. Start from the main duct and work your way towards the register.

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DOUBLE LINE DRAFTING AIR NETWORKS 4/4

Step 4
Dress the duct with equipment: valve, damper, fire proofing, registers on networks…

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DOUBLE AND SINGLE LINE DRAIN DRAWING 1/4

DOUBLE LINE DRAWING:

Several steps are necessary to draw the network below:

There are 3 types of commands in this toolbar:

1. The routing command lets you draft circular ducts whatever

the shape of the network.
It contains many options (elbows, reducers, etc.) to model ducts while
building them.
The command also takes into account layer management when
drafting and allows the insertion of text relating to the drawing.

2. The pick up commands allow you to «hook»

onto a pipe you’ve already drawn and then
continue building on it.

3. All the other commands are intermittent or dressing commands.

Examples: Elbow, Reducer…

Inspection plug…

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DOUBLE AND SINGLE LINE DRAIN DRAWING 2/4

Step 1 Step 2
Start from the furthest point and continue towards the end of the network. Make each connection - This can be done in 2 ways:

1. Start from a symbol and continue towards the main sewer.

2. Start from the main sewer and continue towards the symbol.

Double and single line drain drawing 1/7 Double and single line drain drawing 2/7

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DOUBLE AND SINGLE LINE DRAIN DRAWING 3/4

Step 3
Add the other connections.

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DOUBLE AND SINGLE LINE DRAIN DRAWING 4/4

Step 4 Step 5
Use the «MODIFY» command to adjust the network. Add the equipment.

Double and single line drain drawing 6/7 Double and single line drain drawing 7/7

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DRAWING A SINGLE LINE SET OF PIPES 1/5

This toolbar helps you draw several single line networks side by side simultaneously.

These commands produce the same graphics and information as the one contained in the toolbar below:

1. The routing command lets you draft circular ducts regardless of the shape of the network.

It contains many options (elbows, reducers, etc.) to model ducts while building them.
The command also takes into account layer management when drafting and allows the insertion of text relating to the drawing.

2. The pick up commands allow you to «hook» onto a pipe you’ve already drawn and then continue building onto it.

3. All the other commands are intermittent or dressing commands.

Examples: Elbow, Reducer…

Gates, Thermometers…

These commands are intermittent and are used to dress the drawing generated by the Set of pipes command:

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DRAWING A SINGLE LINE SET OF PIPES 2/5

Several steps are necessary to draw the set of pipes below:

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DRAWING A SINGLE LINE SET OF PIPES 3/5

Step 1: Define the set of pipes You must specify:

1. The number of tubes

2. And for each tube:

-- the name of the network (layer)
-- the specification
-- the pipe size
-- the thickness of insulation (if applicable)
3. The distance between each tube.

Single line set of pipes 1/5

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DRAWING A SINGLE LINE SET OF PIPES 4/5

Step 2 Step 3
Layout the main path. Add the additional branch without creating a connection.

Single line set of pipes 2/5

Single line set of pipes 3/5

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 DRAWING A SINGLE LINE SET OF PIPES 5/5

Step 4 Step 5
Create intermittent connections using commands in the «single line» toolbar. Manage crossings.

Single line set of pipes 5/5

Single line set of pipes 4/5

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DRAWING UNDER SLAB PIPING 1/4

The pipe set below can be drafted in a few steps:

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DRAWING UNDER SLAB PIPING 2/4

Step: Position the distribution boxes. Step 3: Routing pipe set.

Start to draw from the manifold towards one of the entry points.

Step 2: Position the distribution manifold.

Under slab piping 1and 2/5 Under slab piping 3/5

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DRAWING UNDER SLAB PIPING 3/4

Step 4

Feed each entry point using the pick up commands.

Under slab piping 4/5

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DRAWING UNDER SLAB PIPING 4/4

Step 5 A drafted network can be repositioned.

Add un under slab pipe to the pipe set.

Reposition under slab pipes

Once the network is designed, specify the diameters.

Now the bill of materials can be produced.

Under slab piping 5/5

Under slab piping bill of materials

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NETWORK CROSSINGS

THERE ARE 2 POSSIBLE MODES:

• With dotted lines

• Cuts with gaps

THERE ARE 2 WAYS TO OPERATE (regardless of the chosen mode):

• Simple case: one conduit crosses another

-- Select the conduit to modify (the one below).
-- Select the boundary conduit (the one above).

• Other cases (colored red)

-- Select the conduit to modify (the one below).
-- Confirm (to alter the selected entity).
-- Click on the first and the second intersection.

Crossings

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DEFINING ZONES

ZONES WILL BE USED TO QUANTIFY NETWORKS AND MATERIALS. Once the new zone is named, select the points forming the outline of this zone.

Bills can be based on layers (frozen or not) and zones. If the last point clicked is different to the first, then the zone will close automa-
tically.

To create a zone:

Defining zones

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NETWORK BILLS

Objects drawn on FROZEN layers won’t be taken into account.

You can create a bill based on zones or networks (via layers).
Once the drawing is complete you can create a table listing all the different
objects created in the «Model space»:

1. Click on «NETWORK QUANTITY»

2. Choose the appropriate zone

3. Choose the type of table (in the paper space of your CAD software or
in Excel)

4. Click OK and place the table.

The table will not automatically update with new changes to your drawing.
If you have to make amends to your drawing, delete the existing table and
create a new one.

Network bills

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EQUIPMENT BILLS 1/2

To create an equipment bill (registers, valves, dampers, etc.) you must tag Select the assigned block with which to tag the equipment:
the equipment first.
In order to do this you need to use assigned blocks.
A few ready-made assigned blocks come with AUTOFLUID. You can use
them as they are or use them as a basis to create new ones.
To tag equipment while drawing you must assign blocks to equipment
pieces:

If the box is ticked, then the tag will be inserted whilst the equipment is
added to the drawing.

The button lets you insert blocks once the equipment has been added
to the drawing.

Equipment bills 1/2

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EQUIPMENT BILLS 2/2

When the equipment has been tagged it can be listed into a table.

1. Select the equipment you wish to list

2. Choose the zone affected

3. Choose the type of table (In the paper space of your CAD software or in Excel)

4. Click OK and place your table.

Objects drawn onto a FROZEN layer will not be taken into account.
Therefore you can create a bill according to zones and networks (via layers).

The table will not automatically update with new changes to your drawing.
If you have to make amends to your drawing, delete the existing table and create a new one.

Equipment bills 2/2

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COMPUTATIONS AND TEXTS OF WATER LEVELS

This command lets you compute different levels of a drain network. Indicate a few key points in order to calculate the new water level in relation to the
network’s segments.

Water levels

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TEXT 1/2

Let’s use the example of a circular duct: select the relevant entity. The dialogue box below opens. It is pre-populated with the information already available.

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TEXT 2/2

1. Choose texts to write: tick the box beside the text you would like to N.B.
include.
When calculating one level in relation to another level and according to
2. Choose the text appearance: the pipe size, check the level’s unit in the preferences panel (calculation
-- Height and justification variables) to ensure the calculation is right.
-- Type of frame Types of default values and values that can be changed in the preferences
-- Type of leader line
panel (or by clicking: )
-- Number of lines.
3. Choose options of presentation: • Text style
-- Text only
• Type of text (simple or paragraph)
-- Framed text
-- Underlined text with leader line • Height and justification
-- Framed text with leader line. • Pipe size format
• Prefixes and suffixes
• Type of frame.

Texts Text variables

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DIMENSIONING

AUTOFLUID manages most of the dimenisioning variables featured in your

CAD software.
The following variables can be changed:
• Style of dimensioning text
• Height of text
• Unit of dimensioning text
• Appearance of tags
• The dimensions of tags
• The zero before a decimal point
• The display of extension lines.

N.B.
To add a new style to the list simply create a new style with the «STYLE»
command of your CAD software.
(Height must be 0).
The height of the text will stay the same on screen as on the printed
drawing since it is related to the UNIT and the SCALE of the drawing.

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MODIFICATION COMMANDS 1/6

«MODIFY» COMMAND «DELETE» COMMAND

• Swapping one object with another. • Delete an object (elbow, conduit or valve) and adjust surrounding gra-
phics.
• Changing pipe sizes:
-- On a duct
-- On a part. «MOVE» COMMAND

• Modify texts:
-- Change text with automatic update of the frame and/or the
leader line • Move an object on a conduit (valve, reducer, insulation...) and adjust
surrounding graphics.
-- Move text with automatic update of the lead er line
-- Move a leader line. • Move a conduit between two objects and adjust surrounding graphics.

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MODIFICATION COMMANDS 2/6

Other Examples:
SWAPPING ONE OBJECT WITH ANOTHER

Click on: It will change into:

Click on: It will change into:
An elbow going upward An elbow going downward
An elbow A descent
An elbow going downward A cap
A descent An ascent
A cap An end
An ascent An elbow
An end An elbow going upward

This command works on a wide range of AUTOFLUID objects and on all

types of routing commands (circular, rectangular, tube, drain,as well as
single line drawings).

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MODIFICATION COMMANDS 3/6

It operates in two ways: in a loop as already described OR via drop down Another example:
menus:

In this particular example the angle of the Tee is wrong. Simply click on it to
change its direction:

Modify 1/3

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MODIFICATION COMMANDS 4/6

MODIFY PIPE SIZES

Change a pipe sizes directly on the conduit. The parts will then adapt to it.
It is not possible to change the pipe size of a part directly without changing
the size of the conduit

1. First click on a conduit, choose the new pipe size and then the modifi-
cation will take place.
The clicked line doesn’t move. Instead the two others adapt.

2. Then click on the objects adjacent to the already modified conduits to

change them.

Modify 2/3

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MODIFICATION COMMANDS 5/6

1. Amend the text with the modify command in your CAD software.
MODIFY TEXT The frame and the leader line adjust automatically.
Depending on where you click, suitable actions will be triggered:
2. Vertical edge of the frame.
Lets you drag the whole content. (Text, frame, leader line).

3. Horizontal edge of the frame.

Lets you drag the text and frame.
The leader line adjusts automatically.

4. Lets you move the start of the leader line without changing the other
segments.

5. Lets you move the intersection of the two segments of the leader line
without changing neither the start nor the tip.

6. Allows you to move the tip of the leader line without changing the
other segments.

Modify 3/3

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MODIFICATION COMMANDS 6/6

DELETING AN OBJECT MOVE AN OBJECT ON A CONDUIT

Allows you to delete an AUTOFLUID object by clicking only on one of the

entities that form the object. The remaining entities will automatically
update.
With update:

MOVE A CONDUIT BETWEEN TWO OBJECTS

Erase all the entities of the valve and then close the conduit.

Without update:

Delete an object

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OPENINGS 1/2

OPENINGS WITH NETWORKS

Rectangular opening in a wall

Circular opening in a wall

Rectangular opening in a slab

Circular opening in a slab First define the distance between the conduit and the edge of the opening
(in the preferences panel). Then simply select 3 points that belong to the
Triangular opening in a slab conduit and to the wall. The command will automatically calculate the
dimensions of the opening, draw it, and tag it.
Tagging allows you to list the openings in an Excel or in a table in your CAD
software.

Openings with networks

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OPENINGS 2/2

FREE OPENINGS (WITHOUT NETWORKS)

This opening is drafted and tagged in the same way as the

‘openings with networks’.
Tagging allows you to list the openings in Excel or in a table
in your CAD software.

Free openings

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TERMINALS

1. Indicate the position of the equipment part

2. Choose the type of equipment

3. Choose the desired thickness

Click on the image to position the element.

The element’s position is indicated (centered between

2 points or in a corner): this will guide you to place the 3
points correctly.

Terminals

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LAYOUT

1. Choose a presentation or create a new one.

2. Choose a format.

3. Choose ‘to print’ or ‘not print’ the window

(on a layer that won’t print).

You can create a quick layout with the following

settings:
• double frame
• window (automatic scaling)
• title block (if the name is specified).

N.B. The title block has to be made as a block.

The bottom right hand corner of the outer frame
of the title block must have the coordinates
(0,0).
This point will overlap the bottom
right hand corner of the inner frame
of the page.

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 CALCULATION OF PRESSURE DROPS

3. Describe the parts of the network to compute:

- Select the network branch by branch from the terminal to the source
or in the opposite direction.
4 STEPS ARE NEEDED: - A check up table lets you highlight any missing part in the previous
step.
1. Check the connections: - You can name your network in this table.
1.1. Save your file under a new name - The described network will be redrawn in a presentation with the
1.2. Isolate the network that you would like to compute same name.

1.3. Check the connections:

4. Exporting to Excel:
1.3.1. Check the conduits (colored white).
If they appear in red then re-build them. - Export the calculations to Excel from the presentation.
1.3.2. Rebuild the conduits that might have been cut for display If Excel requests that you activate macros when it starts automati-
reasons. cally, please do so.
1.3.3. Delete flocking and insulation… - The macro will run an automatic formatting of the table.
- You will then be able to edit all the parts of this file as if you had
created it yourself.
2. Annotate the network: After having drafted the network you must
add any missing information.
2.1. Flow rate:
Click on any element of a branch (duct, elbow,...).
BEFORE clicking on an intersection (tee, cross, wye) all adjacent
branches must be informed.
General principle Annotate the tees, grids...
2.2. Flow direction:
In intersections, reductions, transformations.
2.3. Vertical duct lengths: for descents, through floors, or in topside Limits of the software (tips to get around them)
and underside connections…
2.4. The manufacturer data for the equipment: valves, dampers …

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CREATION OF A CROSS SECTION 1/3

Step 2 : Annotate the cutting plane

Four steps are required to draw a cross section from a plan view :
1. Place the cutting plane In this dialog box, you will set the horizontal elements of your
2. Annotate the cutting plane background :

3. Annotate the elements of the plan view

4. Build and place the cross section - the upper slab
- the false ceiling
- the technical floor
Step 1 : Place the cutting plane
- the lower slab

Levels and thicknesses have

This is the line (linking the 2 arrows) which contains all the informations in to be set for each object.
Step 2. The length of this line defines the length of the cross section.

If there are several levels :

Define the most common one,
the setting can be refined afterwards.

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CREATION OF A CROSS SECTION 2/3

Step 3 : Annotate the elements of the plan view Example on a circular duct :
-> Click on one of the three lines

In this dialog box, you will define each object’s size and position by
selecting only one part of this object.
-> Choose the corresponding image

-> Set the size

-> Click on one of the grey dots and it will turn red. The dot shows two
elements :
1) The line you have selected
2) The level you will have to specify
-> Set the level
-> Choose the texts to write

Repeat these operations for each object that should appear in the
cross-sectional.

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CREATION OF A CROSS SECTION 3/3

Step 4 : Build and place the cross section RED DOT PRINCIPLE
To build the section : make a simple capture of the predefined elements It shows the positioning and the level you wish to specify:
and of the section line’s letter. You can verify the objects lateral position
by hovering your mouse over the top view.
-> (p1)
-> (p2) To get this overview of your cross section, slowly hover your
mouse from the top to the bottom and vice versa.
-> (p3) or Enter and the cut will disappear.
A cross section block is created. It is named AF-COUPE-A.
You can then zoom on the plan zone dedicated to crosssectional views,
and use the command to position the cross-section drawing.

WARNING : You must only select the section A elements. It might

happen that an element from section B is in you selection field: do not
select it.

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 3D TRANSFORMATION 1/21
RVT-CONNECT: AUTOFLUID’S REVIT RIBBON

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16
1. Import a DWG 3D duct network into a current model. It will be imported as file into your CAD software preferences. This step informs your preferences
a ‘block’ which cannot be modified inside the current model. Read more... with the model’s floor names and levels. From then, the connection between
the two softwares is set up. Read more...
2. Link a .DWG 3D duct network into the current model. It will be embedded as
an ‘external reference’, which cannot be modified. However, it will automatically 8. Once your 2D plans and duct network are designed in your CAD software,
update if the linked .IFC is modified. Read more... export them in IFC format and use this command to incorporate them in the
model. They will be automatically located at the right place with the correct
3. Link a .IFC 3D duct network into the current model. It will be embedded as height. Read more...
an ‘external reference’, which cannot be modified. However, it will automatically
update if the linked .IFC file is modified. Read more... 9. List and select embedded duct network with the ‘embed IFC’ command.
4. Link a .RVT 3D duct network into the current model. It will be embedded as 10. To send .RVT files to your clients, embed your duct network into a blank
an ‘external reference’, which cannot be modified. However, it will automatically model and then save it in .RVT format. Read more...
update if the linked .RVT file is modified. Read more...
11. Create a text using the information provided in each duct network objects.
5. Manage external linked or imported files (.DWG - .IFC - .RVT - ...)
13. Generate detailed bills of materials from your .IFC duct network.
6. Generate 2D plans from the model. This command lists all the
model views and levels. Select the views to generate and then choose 14. Show possible interferences between the AUTOFLUID .IFC duct network
a destination directory where the new .DWG files will be created. and the architecture or any other object in the model.
Read more... 15. TeamViewer module for hotline service assistance.
7. Generate a linked file that feeds into the AUTOFLUID preference file. This
16. Information about the software.
command lists all the model floors. Select the floor(s) you need and then choose
a destination directory where the new .LST file will be created. Next, import this

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3D TRANSFORMATION 2/21

RVT-CONNECT - HOW TO EXPORT 2D PLANS

1. Create DWG
From the model, you can generate 2D plans of each floors then integrate their level into AUTOFLUID. With the AUTOFLUID toolbar in REVIT, ensure the
compatibility between your CAD software to the model.
Click on ‘Create DWG’ and select the 2D plans you wish to extract. Click on ‘Save’ and select a destination directory.

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3D TRANSFORMATION 3/21

2. Floors properties
This tool makes you export all the informations about the levels in a .LST file.
Click on ‘Floors properties’, select the levels. Click on ‘Export’ then choose a folder.

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3. Import the floor properties
Open your CAD software then import this file in the AUTOFLUID preferences :

3
4
2

The connection with the model is set up. Use the 2D plan for background to work on as usually :
- as an XREF (recommended)
- as a block
- by opening it
If necessary, perform a file treatment as you would on a usual architectural plan (see page 5). You can now draw with all the AUTOFLUID modules on your
2D plans.

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2D NETWORK QUALITY N.B.

The 2D network structure must be correct, in order to ensure AUTOBIM3D
functions properly. • The following parts must be drafted with AUTOFLUID c.12 patch version
and later to be compatible with AUTOBIM3D or AUTOCOUPE:
Do not forget to rebuild the conduits that you may have cut fto improve - Vertical dampers
visibility.
- Vertical fire dampers
- Flocking and insulation
See chapters:
- Tap fittings
- p.9: INTRODUCTION TO DOUBLE LINE DRAWING - Sanitary connections.
- p.10: STRUCTURE OF A CONDUIT
• All parts must be surrounded by their conduits.
- p.1: OPERATIONS ON CONDUITS
Examples:
- A Tee must be surrounded by 3 conduits
- A ‘flat’ Elbow > 2 conduits, etc…
- The oblique conduits must be linked to at least 1 horizontal
conduit.

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DEFINITION OF TERMS
Example below:
• The network
- 1. The ‘topside connection’ graphical object contains 3 elements:
ELBOW / CONDUIT / TEE
It is composed of graphical objects such as conduits, elbows,
reducers, connections... - 2. The ‘flat elbow’ graphical object contains 1element: ELBOW

• ‘On line’ equipment

These are the small pieces linked to the networks: fire dampers,
dampers, grids, tap fittings...
This type of equipment is ‘made’ on demand while routing the
networks, in order to be drafted quickly and to fit any network sizes.
It looks graphically simple, or even schematic, however it is sized at
the required dimensions. It can be automatically replaced by more
detailed graphic blocks if needed.

• Main equipment

Main equipment blocks aren’t provided with AUTOFLUID. Many users

already have their own block libraries. Nowadays manufacturers
themselves provide the needed elements in different formats (DWG,
RFA, IFC...) for integration of their pieces into your plans and models. • Elements

• Graphical objects See example above.

They contain the information that allows:
They represent the network routing.
- Quick modifications of graphical objects
For example: a ‘flat’ elbow, an elbow going ‘through upper floor’, a
connection... - Pressure drop calculation
One graphical object may contain several elements. - 3D model creation.

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DEFINITION OF TERMS

• Horizontal conduits Represented by:

Circular > 3 lines

Rectangular > 2 lines
Smoke exhaust rectangular > 4 lines
Single line > 1 line (according to the routing
command used: line/polyline)

• Vertical conduits Represented by:

Circular > 1 circle

Rectangular > 1 square/1 rectangle
Smoke exhaust rectangular > 1 doubled square/rectangle
Single line > 1 circle
• Oblique conduits

• Sanitary conduits (drain) They are represented as the horizontal ones plus the angle information.

The drain conduits are by definition slightly oblique. There are 2 possibilities to get oblique conduits:
The drain networks have always been graphically drafted as the - using the «Break» local commands or routing commands option
horizontal ones. - transforming a horizontal conduit
The slight slope generates ellipses on connection pieces that are so
thin that they are ignored (elbows, wye branches…). In order to create them using an already existing conduit, run the
« REVERSE AN OBLIQUE / HORIZONTAL PIPE » command. Then run
The angle of a slightly sloping conduit needs not be given.
the « MODIFY 1 OBJECT » command to adapt the adjacent pieces.
(See Exercise in 9 steps p.62)

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DEFINITION OF TERMS

• Branches

A branch is a segment in a network. It is defined by its extremities: a diversion, a terminal or a level breakage.
Example: a Tee to a Grid, a Wye branch to an Elbow ‘Through lower floor’.

Example: In the draft below, 3 branches can be identified:

• Spread

It means giving an information to a graphical object and then spread this information to all the branch’s graphical objects.
Each branch must be annotated: the information does not automatically go from one branch to another.

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INFORMATION AND TEXTS

Be careful to differentiate the «TEXT» command from the «Information» commands.

The «Information» commands allow you to read or assign some information to the elements composing the «graphical objects» .
The «TEXT» command lets you retrieve information and allows you to complete it with more text.
Texts can be framed and/or can come with a leader line.

• The «Information» commands:

4 commands will allow you to get some information or assign some information to a network:

- EQUIPMENT BILLS:

- DZETACAD:

- AUTOCOUPE:

- AUTOBIM3D:

These 4 dialog boxes are adapted to the corresponding modules:

As far as DZETACAD is concerned, the main information is Flow, whereas with AUTOCOUPE and AUTOBIM3D, it is the Level and the Water level that
matter the most.

A value information that was confirmed in one of the dialog boxes is valid for the others.

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ANNOTATING THE 2D NETWORK (LEVELS)

The levels are given branch by branch.

The selected branches levels can be quickly specified, either by

typing the level value directly, or by retrieving the level from ano-
ther conduit.

The level information must mainly be given to the horizontal

conduits. The levels of the other graphical objects will automatically
derive from the adjacent conduits level.
Example: spreading the level along a network that contains a level
breakage.

The missing or false levels may be automatically replaced by levels

allowing a correct 3D modeling.

The 2D insulation drafted (Insulation / Flocking) will not generate a

3D insulation.
Check the « INSULATION » box if you wish to integrate it into your
3D model.

Specifying the levels

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Exercise Drafting and annotating the conduits below can be done in 9 steps.
In this exercise, you will learn how to assign information to the oblique
conduits, how to add and adjust adjacent pieces (breaks, elbows...) and
therefore how to get a 2D network that can be ‘transformed’ into 3D.

This exercise contains all of the difficulties you may face when giving
information to the 2D network.

Steps 1-2-3
Draft the conduits and add a « BREAK » using the local command. 3D Transformation 1-2-3/9

1. Draft the main conduit 2. Draft the branch 3. Add the break

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Steps 4-5-6
Cut the horizontal conduits to get some oblique conduits. 3D Transformation 4-5-6/9

4. Cut the conduits 5. Adapt the adjacent pieces 6. Add the elbows
Specify the angles

Steps 7-8-9
3D Transformation: 7-8-9/9
Assign the levels to the horizontal conduits, adjust the elbows position, and spread the levels.

7. Specify the levels without spreading them 8. Adjust the elbows position 9. Spread the levels

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ANNOTATING THE 2D NETWORK (WATER LEVELS)

In order to assign the levels to sanitary conduits, run the same « NETWORK INFORMATION » command as for the other networks.

Using this command, you will quickly specify the water levels:
Choose the starting point for the water level and type its value
as well as the slope value, then click progressively downwards
or upwards along the branch. The adjacent water levels are thus
automatically calculated.
The water level settings of a network can be modified.
See video p.60.

Specifying the water levels

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3D NETWORK CREATION

3D network creation
• Selection

The 3D network is created by simply selecting the 2D network.

The whole network does not have to be selected at one time. It is recommended to break up the process and select one network part at a time.
For Deleting / Merging / Renaming / Exporting networks, see p.64, chapter ‘MODELLING - 3D NETWORKS MANAGEMENT’.

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CHANGING WATER LEVEL SETTINGS OF A NETWORK When network graphics are modified, corresponding water level settings can
also be changed.
Click on the logo/text of the water level in order to:

• Redefine the starting point of the water level

• Redefine the slope

• Add/delete a branch

• Redefine the slope of a segment.

Water level modification

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VISUALISATION

• 3D Orbit:

Allows orbiting in any direction around your network. It is the native command of the CAD software you use (see your CAD software User Guide).

• Plan view:

Allows going back to plan view with a zoom onto the selected entity (prevents the Zoom Extents activation of your CAD software command).

• Visual styles:

- 2D Wireframe
- Conceptual style, with visible edges
- Realistic style: this is the most appropriate aspect for creating 3D snapshots.

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CREATING 3D ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS The transparency of architectural elements can be set in the Preferences file.

An example of a bottom view:

3D Architecture

This is not an architectural design software, but a tool that will enable
you to make 3D elevations of the most common architectural elements
drafted in 2D.
You will thus be able to visualize the networks in their environment wit-
hout having to transfer them into the 3D model. This tool can also be used
to design the structure of machine rooms.

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3D SNAPSHOTS - CREATION 3D SNAPSHOTS - POSITIONING

Position the 3D view snapshot in Model or Layout space.

The « SNAPSHOT » command allows you to enrich your 2D plan

presentation. It is not part of the modeling process.
After choosing the view using the visualisation tools (positioning and
aspect), run the « TAKE A SNAPSHOT » command, position the marker and
select the 3D elements.

- The orientation of the marker number corresponds to the initial UCS

- Make sure to position the marker accordingly to the plan view: it must
indicate the 2D views elements.

The marker « 2 » below is incorrect as it points to the 3D network in

Orbit view, but it is placed behind the 2D network in Plan view:

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MODELING - 3D NETWORKS MANAGEMENT

This command will allow you to merge the different segments of a network
(from the same layer). Networks can also be renamed or deleted. Lastly, select
the desired networks and click on «DWG Export». The selected networks will be
automatically combined into one DWG or IFC file.

When saving, a default folder and file name are suggested - they can be modified.
The resulting IFC can then be imported into a modelling software like Revit.

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LINK WITH REVIT : 1. How to import or link your 3D duct network in a .DWG format
IMPORTING 3D DUCT NETWORKS INTO REVIT MODELS
1. Open the project (.RVT file)
2. In the project path window, select the floor plan matching
When your duct networks are completed, import them in REVIT. the AUTOBIM3D model to import (the positioning is automatic)
There are several ways they can be imported:
1. Import or link your 3D duct network in a .DWG or .IFC format
2. Embed your IFC files into the model
3. Create a .RVT file that will be ‘linked’ inside the model

3. In the AUTOFLUID toolbar

The purpose of AUTOBIM3D is to use your 2D plans as a key part of the
production process. All changes to the 3D model will have to be done
through the 2D plan first in order to be reflected in the modified 3D model
part.

- «Import CAD» DWG file

- «Link CAD» .DWG file
- «Link IFC» .IFC file
If you use the ‘Link...’ tools , REVIT will automatically
The REVIT «Link...» tool is equivalent to the XREF
update the model.
command in AUTOCAD.
-> Now you can see your duct networks inside the model. However they
cannot be modified directly.

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2. Embed your .IFC files into the model 3. Create an .RVT to ‘Link’ it into the model
- Open the architect’s model - Open a new project using the ‘AUTOFLUID 20xx.rte’ template
- Embed your .IFC files

- Select your files (multiple selection is possible)

- Click ‘Open’

3 1 2

- Compile the different floors of your IFC duct networks (1)

- Save your compilation as an .RVT file (2)
-> Your duct networks are reachable, able to be modified and you’ll find - Open the architect’s model
all the elements information according to the BIM standard. - Link your .RVT file (3)

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CONTACT

TECHNICAL SUPPORT TRAINING

Are you not finding the answers you’re looking for in this manual? To ensure that you will yield 100% of AUTOFLUID’s benefits in your field we
provide training programs designed specifically for our users. They are aimed
Are you having trouble using our software? at beginners as well as confirmed users and they can take place at your offices
or in ours during mixed companies sessions.

Visit www.autofluid.fr -> Hotline Whichever your level you will be trained by instructors who are specialised in
the field. Traceocad’s instructors are professionals in the field of CAD for fluid
You will find: engineering.
To request a quote for training sessions, please contact us on:
• Frequently Asked Questions and a ‘How to’ section.
For topics such as:
- ‘How to add a type of line’
- ‘How to add or modify an assigned tag’
- Etc...
Sales Department
contact@traceocad.fr
• The form to fill in in order to be called back by a technician.
Tel: 0033 486 79 20 00
Technical support can also be contacted at hotline@traceocad.fr

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contact@traceocad.fr • Tel: 0033 486 79 20 00
www.autofluid.fr • www.traceocad.fr