Posted on by

QuickBlock C.M.U. Block Coursing Try It Now!

CMU Block Coursing

C.M.U. Block Coursing App QuickBlock is now available in the AutoCAD Exchange Store and on the SoftDraft website.

C.M.U. Block Coursing for Wall Sections

Quick Block is a user-friendly dialog box interface that allows you to create Concrete Masonry Unit (C.M.U.) Block coursing. It offers a range of C.M.U. Block types, joint selections, and wall thickness options. The image on the right illustrates a Solid C.M.U. Coursing Wall, an 8-inch C.M.U. Hollow Wall, and a 10-inch Cavity Wall with a 4-inch Brick (using the QuickBrick App) and a 4-inch Solid C.M.U. Wall.

QuickBlock™ Includes:

  • User Selected Layers for C.M.U., Block Hatch, and Joint Hatch
  • Various Joint Types Include None, Struck, Concave, Flush, Weathered, V-Shaped, and Raked
  • Different Joint Types may be set for the Left and Right side of the Block
  • Block Start Options include Full Joint, Half Joint or Block
  • Block End Options include Joint or Block
Posted on by

Extrude 2D Profile to 3D in AutoCAD Try Now!

Extrude-2-3D Path App

The Extrude-2-3D Path App is now available in the AutoCAD Exchange Store and on the SoftDraft website.

The Extrude-2-3D Path application is a user-friendly tool designed to transform 2D polyline profiles into 3D objects. The process begins with the creation of a 2D profile using a polyline. Once the profile is ready, you can launch the application. The next step involves selecting the 2D profile and specifying an insertion point. Finally, you select the path for the object and two alignment points. This straightforward process allows for the quick and efficient conversion of 2D profiles into 3D objects, making it a valuable tool for those working in 3D modeling or similar fields. Please note that the application is compatible with Autodesk® AutoCAD® versions from 2012 to current version.

Posted on by

CS ButtWeld Fittings 2D App

buttweld pipe fittings

CS ButtWeld Fittings 2D App is now available in the AutoCAD Exchange Store and on the SoftDraft website.

Carbon Steel ButtWeld Fittings 2D

Pipe Spool Feature draws a pipe spool with two selection points, and your selection of a specific start and end fitting. Start and end fittings include, Plain End, Break, Stub-In, 90 Down, 90 Up, Cap, Tee Plan, Tee Turned Up, Tee Turned Down.

Fittings include:

  • Pipe sizes include 1/2″ to 24″
  • 90 degree long radius elbows
  • 90 degree short radius elbows
  • 45 degree elbows
  • Caps
  • Tee
  • Crosses
  • Eccentric and Concentric Reducers

CS ButtWeld Fittings 2D App

Posted on by

Base Mounted 3D Pumps App Now Available!

3D Base Mounted Pump

Base Mounted End Suction Pumps 3D is now available in the AutoCAD Exchange Store and on the SoftDraft website.

This application enables you to create an extensive range of 3D end suction pumps using data sheets from various manufacturers. All you need to do is enter the specific dimensions for each pump. The app has a feature that allows you to save these dimensions for future reference and even retrieve the pump data in a different drawing file. It offers flexibility with discharge positions, including options for left, center, and end. The app also provides a wide selection of suction and discharge sizes, ranging from 1/2″ to 42″. Additionally, it includes a variety of flange ratings. This makes it a comprehensive tool for creating 3D models of end suction pumps.

Posted on by

Wood Framing Beams 3D Try It Now!

Wood Framing Beams 3D App

Wood Framing Beams 3D App

Wood Framing Beams-Columns 3D

The Wood Framing Beams-Columns 3D App is now available for download on the AutoCAD Exchange Store and on the SoftDraft website. This application is a time-saver for those who create 3D models of wood framing.

You can represent the framing elements of the model using just a single line. The app allows you to choose from a variety of preset sizes for Laminated Veneer Lumber (LVL), 2x’s, 4x’s, and 8x’s. If you need a size not listed in the presets, you can manually enter the width and height of the beam or column.

The app provides options for the insertion point of each beam or column. You can choose the center, top, or bottom of the framing beam or column for all selected framing lines.

For example, a single line can represent the center-lines of wood studs, and the studs are then inserted using the center insertion point. For wood floor joists, you use the top of the wall line and the joists are inserted using the bottom insertion point. You have the flexibility to insert rafters using either the top or bottom insertion points.

This app is designed to streamline the process of creating 3D wood framing models, saving you significant time and effort.

App has now been added to the AutoCAD Exchange Store for download and to the SoftDraft website at the link below.

This app will definitely save you a huge amount of time when creating a Wood Framing 3D model using a single line to represent the framing elements of the model. Choose from a variety of preset LVL’s, 2x’s, 4x’s, and 8x’s or just enter the width and height of the beam or column you require not listed in the pre-sets. Insertion Point selections for each beam or column, for all selected framing lines, can represent the Center, Top, or Bottom of the framing beam or column.

A single line represents the wood stud center-lines and the wood stud is then inserted using the center insertion point. Wood Floor Joists use the top of wall line and wood joists are inserted using the bottom insertion point. Rafters are inserted using the top or bottom insertion points.

Posted on by

Introducing Steel3D-DIN: A New App For 3D Steel Modeling In AutoCAD

Steel Shapes 3D DIN App

Steel3D-DIN Steel Shapes

App Steel3D-DIN now available on the AutoCAD Exchange Store and on our website.

Steel3D-DIN Structural Steel Shapes creates a 3D solid as columns or beams. Turning on the “Select Lines For Extrusion” toggle enables you to select multiple lines, pre-drawn in 3D model space. Toggled Off, allows you to place a single shape in the current UCS, then specify the rotation angle and height by moving the cursor out to the required height or type the height in.

Posted on by

AutoCAD vs. Joist2K: Conquering Steel Bar Joists in Your Drafting Workflow

Steel bar joists are the workhorses of modern construction, providing robust support for roofs and floors. But translating their intricate geometries into AutoCAD drawings can be a time-consuming and error-prone task. Enter Joist2K, a dedicated AutoCAD app promising to revolutionize your joist-drafting experience. We’re about to match up these two drafting strategies, weighing their pros and cons, so you can nail down the best fit for your project’s rhythm.

The AutoCAD Way: A Measured Approach

Drawing steel bar joists manually in AutoCAD is a meticulous process. You’ve got to weave through a ton of commands, double-check technical guides for the exact sizes and shapes, and nail every calculation to get those steel bar joists just right.

Pros:

  • Granular control: You have complete control over every aspect of the joist, from individual web components to connection details.
  • Flexibility: AutoCAD’s versatility allows you to create custom joist shapes and profiles beyond standard offerings.
  • No additional software: If you already own AutoCAD, you’re good to go, eliminating the need for additional purchases.

Cons:

  • Time-consuming: The manual process can be slow and tedious, especially for complex joists or repetitive drawings.
  • Prone to errors: Slipping up on the details or crunching numbers wrong can seriously hike up construction costs.
  • Requires expertise: Proficiency in AutoCAD and understanding of steel joist specifications are essential.

Joist2K: Automation Takes the Reins

Joist2K throws a wrench (pun intended) into the traditional workflow. Joist2K streamlines your design process by quickly whipping up precise steel bar joist elevations with just a couple of clicks.

Pros:

  • Speed and efficiency: Dramatically reduces drawing time, allowing you to focus on more strategic tasks.
  • Accuracy: Eliminates the risk of human error in calculations and dimensions.
  • Ease of use: Intuitive interface requires minimal AutoCAD knowledge or understanding of joist specifications.
  • Versatility: Offers a comprehensive library of pre-defined joist types and sizes, with options for customization.
  • Automatic annotations: Includes labels and dimensions for joist type, size, span, and bearing points.

Cons:

  • Limited control: Compared to manual drawing, customization options are restricted to predefined parameters.
  • Additional cost: Requires purchasing the Joist2K app, adding to your software expenses.

The Verdict: A Matter of Priorities

Choosing between manual AutoCAD drafting and Joist2K ultimately comes down to your priorities and project needs. If you value granular control and customization above all else, the traditional approach might be your knight in shining armor. But for those seeking speed, accuracy, and efficiency, Joist2K shines as a powerful ally.

Consider these factors to make an informed decision:

  • Project complexity: For simple, repetitive joist drawings, Joist2K’s automation shines. For highly customized or unique joist designs, manual drafting might offer more flexibility.
  • Time constraints: Tight deadlines call for Joist2K’s rapid drafting capabilities. With manual drawing, be prepared to invest significant time and effort.
  • Budget: If cost is a major concern, manual drafting using your existing AutoCAD license might be the more economical option. However, factor in the potential time savings and reduced error risk that Joist2K offers.

At the end of the day, you’ve got to pick a path that nails both precision and speed in your steel bar joist designs, all while sliding into your process like it was made for it. So, whether you wield the mighty commands of AutoCAD or embrace the automation magic of Joist2K, conquer your next steel bar joist project with confidence!

Ultimately, there are merits to both AutoCAD and Joist2K for steel bar joist drafting, so the ideal approach depends on one’s specific workflow and needs. Joist2K debate. Keen to hear your perspective – any particular experiences or preferences that you want to bring up in our discussion? So, I’d love to hear your thoughts—ever picture a scene while reading, only to see it unfold differently on screen? Let’s get into that in the comments.

Posted on by

PVC 3D Pipe and Fittings App Get It Now!

PVC40-3D App

PVC403D AutoCAD App has been added to AutoCAD Exchange Store Landing Page_English as New Apps.

PVC-40 3D creates a variety of PVC Schedule 40 Pipe and Fittings as 3D solids for easy placement in the 3D-PVC piping drawing.

A dialog box interface provides an easy method for the selection of each fitting with different size selections and in one of three views, side, turned down or turned up. Place PVC pipe and fittings in a 3D model from within the WCS and without changing your UCS.

PVC Schedule 40 Fittings 3D App will revolutionize the way you do 3D Piping drawings. The Pipe Spool feature makes it easy to add a pipe segment with selected starting and ending fittings. This allows you to place a starting fitting of a 90 Elbow turned down and an ending fitting of a Tee turned up, with the connecting pipe segment, within the 3D model space without changing your UCS. Fitting view or UCS selections include, plan, up, down and vertical.

The unique Pipe Spool Feature allows you to draw a pipe spool with two selection points and a specific start and end fittings. Start and end fittings include, Plain End, 90 Elbow plan, 90 Down, 90 Up, Cap, Tee Plan, Tee Turned Up, Tee Turned Down.

https://www.softdraft.com/product/pvc-valves-3d

Posted on by

Buttweld Fittings 3D App Now Available!

Buttweld Fittings 3D

Carbon Steel Buttweld Fittings 3D has been added to AutoCAD Mechanical_English Exchange Store as Featured Apps.

Carbon Steel Buttweld Fittings 3D App is used to create 3D Buttweld piping drawings. The unique features in this app will make 3D piping drawings easier to produce from an isometric view point. The unique Pipe Spool Feature allows you to draw a pipe spool with two selection points with selected start and end fittings. This feature alone will save many hours of pipe drawing time. First draw the center-lines for the piping route, and than you will be ready to drop the fittings at each point for elbows and tees. Or use the Pipe spool feature to go from point to point, two points at a time with the fittings included.

Buttweld Fittings 3D App Now Available!

Posted on by

Steel Bar Joist App Joist2D Try It Now!

K-Series Bar Joist Joist2D

Introducing Steel Bar Joist 2D App for AutoCAD: A Featured App for AutoCAD Mechanical_English

Do you REALLY have time to take out the Joist Manufacturer’s catalogue and look up the dimensional data needed to create a  Steel Bar Joist?

Joist2D: Your Time-Saving Partner for Steel Bar Joist Drafting

This Steel Bar Joist 2D App keeps you from struggling to draw steel bar joists in minutes? Ditch the tedious manual process and embrace Joist2D, the app that revolutionizes your workflow. With just two clicks, watch intricate joist elevations materialize on your screen, saving you precious time and effort.

Joist2D isn’t just fast, it’s versatile. Say goodbye to limited options. Choose from a comprehensive database of K and KCS steel bar joist types and sizes, catering to every project’s needs. Need further customization? Dive deeper and tweak properties like depth, seat, and web thickness. Adjust spacing, layout, and alignment with ease, crafting the perfect joist arrangement.

Forget about messy calculations and deciphering complex data manuals. Joist2D takes the hassle out of accuracy. Watch as the app automatically generates precise steel bar joist elevations, complete with the right size, shape, and orientation. And to top it off, intelligent labels and dimensions instantly appear, showcasing joist type, size, span, and crucial bearing dimensions.

Investing in Joist2D is an investment in efficiency. Ditch the 10-15 minute manual slog and see joists materialize in seconds. It’s the perfect tool for architects, engineers, and anyone who wants to streamline their steel bar joist drafting process. So, say goodbye to wasted time and hello to a smarter, faster way to work. Download Joist2D today and experience the difference!

Steel Bar Joist 2D App for AutoCAD is a featured app in the AutoCAD Mechanical_English Exchange Store.

Steel Bar Joist and Joist Girders