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

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

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.

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