Building Information Modeling (BIM) is one of the most important technologies for the design and construction of structures. BIM software such as Revit allows architects and engineers to digitally model the entire building and simulate its physical and material properties. IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is an open, neutral and internationally accepted standard for BIM data. Exporting Revit models as IFC files allows project teams to share BIM data with other stakeholders such as architects, engineers and contractors.
However, there are some challenges in IFC export from Revit. The quality of the exported IFC file depends on the model quality and the export setting. An incorrect export can cause significant problems for further modeling, clash checking, or construction. This guide is designed to help you understand the best practices for IFC export from Revit, so you can ensure your BIM data is accurate and in order.
The following guide provides step-by-step instructions for IFC export from Revit. We start with the preparation of the model and adjust the export settings to get a high quality IFC file. We’ll also show you how to check for issues in the exported file and fix them to ensure smooth collaboration with other stakeholders in the construction project. All information in this guide is based on best practices and Autodesk recommendations.
Step 1: Setting up the model
Before you can start exporting IFC from Revit, you need to make sure your model is set up correctly. Here are some important steps to follow:
- Check your elements: make sure that all elements in your model are correctly categorized and that they have a unique name.
- Check your geometry: verify that all geometry elements are correctly positioned and aligned.
- Check your parameters: Make sure all required parameters are listed and filled correctly.
Once you have completed these steps, you are ready to start IFC exporting. Don’t forget to save your work periodically to avoid data loss.
One important thing you can do at this stage is to create a checklist. Make sure you have completed all the required steps before moving to the next step of exporting IFC from Revit.
Ultimately, careful model setup will ensure that you can export a high-quality IFC model that imports well into other applications.
Step 2: Select export format
Once the Revit model has been prepared for IFC export, you need to select the correct export format. There are several options, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.
First you need to select the IFC format. IFC stands for Industry Foundation Classes and is an open standard for describing BIM data. Revit offers IFC 2×3 TC1 as the default format, but there is also the option to select IFC 2×3 Coordination View 2.0 or even IFC 4.
In addition to the IFC format, you can also select other export options. This includes, for example, exports of 2D CAD drawings, DWF files, or exports of specific Revit elements in the form of IFC objects.
It is important to consider the requirements of the project and the requirements of the receiving party to choose the right export format. For example, if the goal of the IFC export is to visualize the model in an online viewer, you may want to select the lightweight IFC XML format to minimize the file size.
- Make sure you select the correct export options before performing the export.
- Consider the requirements of the project and the receiving party.
- Consider selecting lightweight export formats to minimize the file size.
Export the model from Revit to IFC format
Exporting the model from Revit to IFC format is an important step in the architecture and construction industry. IFC is an international file format supported by multiple software applications to ensure interoperability of BIM projects.
To export the model, you must first define the required IFC settings. This includes, for example, the definition of the classification, the conversion of entities and attributes, and the COBie attributes needed. Once set, users can export the model directly to IFC format.
It is important to note that the export process can vary depending on the size and complexity of the Revit model. Some models may require a longer export time or manual fine-tuning of the model before it can be exported.
Once the model has been successfully exported to IFC format, it can be imported into other BIM-compatible software applications. This allows architects, engineers and contractors to collaborate more effectively and ensure that the model is represented correctly and accurately.
Instructions for IFC export from Revit
Exporting IFC files from Revit is an important step in the BIM process to facilitate collaboration between different disciplines. After the export settings have been made, the exported data should be carefully checked.
One way to review the data is to open it in a viewer. There are several free and paid viewers on the market that support IFC files. An important factor when selecting a viewer is the version of the IFC schema used. It is important to ensure that the viewer supports the same schema as Revit.
During the review of the exported data, various aspects should be considered, including geometry, attributes and relationships. The geometry should be correct and complete, and attributes such as materials and room numbers should be assigned correctly. Relationships between different elements should also be checked to make sure they are correct.
Another way to review the exported data is to import it into another BIM program. Importing it into another program can identify potential errors or missing data. However, it is important to note that different programs may have different interpretations of IFC files.
Importing IFC models to other software
Once you have successfully exported an IFC model from Revit, you can now import it into other software to perform further tasks. Most BIM software supports the IFC standard and can accept and edit the model.
Commonly used tools that can import IFC models include Autodesk Navisworks, ArchiCAD, Tekla BIMsight, and Solibri Model Checker. You can also open the IFC model in 3D viewer software such as SketchUp Viewer or BIMx.
If you open the IFC model in the other software, you should make sure that the objects are displayed correctly and all information is present in the model. In some cases, you may find that some information is lost or that certain elements are not displayed as they should be. In this case, you may need to revise the model in Revit and then export it again.
It is important to regularly share models between different BIM software to keep the whole process running smoothly and ensure all parties are on the same page. The IFC standard provides a comprehensive solution for this and continues to be supported by leading software developers.