TubeCAD - Importing DXF Files

TubeCAD can import DXF files directly. The DXF import feature in TubeCAD...

• Imports the DXF data
• Sorts the centerline segments into the proper order
• Performs 3D intersection between the intersecting lines
• Detects and removes inherent intersection errors

Programs That Can Create DXF Files

There are many CAD programs on the market that can create the "Drawing Interchange Format". This format has been around for years and was originally designed by AutoDesk for use with AutoCAD. The DXF file is way to export to other programs the data inside a drawing.

Use the Unigraphics NX DXF building capability to create parts for TubeCAD Pro.

Step 1: Export the Drawing as a DXF from the General CAD Package

Design the tube in general CAD package. This is an image of the DWGeditor program from SolidWorks. It is based on the CADopia software package. If you receive DXF files from customers, then it is appropriate to use a general CAD program like CADopia to check that the file is setup properly: The tube centerline needs to be placed on a unique layer. The tube arc centerlines should be placed on another unique layer. There should be no extraneous entities (lines or arcs) on those layers. If you have made changes, then after the drawing meets these qualifications, export the drawing to a new DXF file that can be imported to TubeCAD Pro.

Step 2: Load TubeCAD Pro and Initialize the Units

Load TubeCAD Pro. If your incoming part was drawn in inches, then press the New Part in Inches button. (This is the button with the blue ball.) If your incoming part was drawn in millimeters, then press the New Part in Millimeters button. (This is the button with the red ball.)

Step 3: Start the DXF File Import Feature

In the File pulldown menu, select the Import - DXF File command. Select the DXF file to import then press OK. Select DXF file. Select the centerline layer name and the centerline arc layer name Press "Load File"

Step 4: Organize the Layout

The display will change. It may look something like this. If you see nothing, then press the Zoom Extents feature. Type the word "auto" in the command line and press the Enter key. Enter "4" and press Enter. This selects the most comprehensive formatting available for TubeCAD Pro layouts. The layout will reorganize itself like this:

Step 5: Set the Diameter

The incoming data will not contain a diameter, so you can set that value in the General Spec menu. Either press the GS button or type "spec" and press Enter. Enter the diameter in the Outer Diameter field Press the "Reset View Diameters" button. Press the OK button at the bottom of the window

The image will display something like this:

Step 6: Zoom Extents

Zoom to the extents to see the entire layout. This entire process takes just a few minutes.

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