How to Export Revit System to Fabrication MEP

Required Revit Addins:

Overview

This article explains how to export a Revit MEP system to Autodesk Fabrication MEP (CADmep) using the .RIF file format.
This workflow enables MEP designers to transfer design line data from Revit into Fabrication MEP for detailing, coordination, and fabrication-ready modeling.

Step-by-Step Workflow

1. Isolate the Desired System in Revit

1. In Revit, hover over the desired system (e.g., duct, pipe, or electrical service).

2. Press Tab until the entire system is highlighted.

3. Click once to select all connected elements.

2. Export the Design Line Elements

1. Go to the Add-Ins tab.

2. Click Store Design Line Elements.

3. Select the Out button (with the arrow icon).

4. Choose a save location and file name for the .RIF export.

3. Open the File in Fabrication MEP

1. Launch Fabrication CADmep.

2. Type Processrun in the command line and press Enter.

3. Browse to and select the .RIF file exported from Revit.

4. Configure the Mappings

When the Mappings window appears:

• Match the Revit Service with the corresponding Fabrication Service on the Services tab.

• Right-click each line item individually and select Edit to assign the appropriate mapping.

5. Load and Review the Imported Data

1. Click OK after verifying all mapping settings.

2. The .RIF file will load into your Fabrication drawing.

   • If the elements are not visible, perform a Zoom Extents to locate them.

6. Activate and Refine the Design Line

1. Double-click the imported Design Line to activate it.

2. Review all imported elements and correct any components that did not process correctly.

3. Replace fittings or adjust elements as needed to finalize the system for fabrication.

Best Practices

• Verify that your Fabrication Database aligns with the Revit service prior to export.

• Maintain consistent service mapping across projects to prevent import conflicts.

• Check the Fitting Ignores setting before running Processrun to ensure fittings are included.

• Save and back up your Fabrication drawing before processing any imports.

About the Author

Sr Technical Support Specialist<br><br> Skilled in AutoCAD, Mixed-use, Renovation, Revit, and Sustainable Design. Strong arts and design professional with a BA in Urban design focused in Architecture from University of Washington.

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