4.2.17. Support + Clamping system [x] (SuCri2AutoSelectMultipleSupportClamp)

Overview

This guide describes the automatic creation of supports and clamping systems with the SuCri plugin in AutoCAD Plant 3D and Advance Steel. You will learn how to use structures as a reference in order to model pipe supports efficiently and precisely.

Where do I find the function?

Called via the command SuCri2AutoSelectMultipleSupportClamp or via the ribbon SuCri > Module 2.

Plant 3D™ command

Video

How it works in detail

Step 1: Starting the function

1. Open your project in AutoCAD Plant 3D or Advance Steel.
2. Navigate to the SuCri tab in the ribbon.
3. Click the Support + Clamping system [x] button (command: SuCri2AutoSelectMultipleSupportClamp).

Expected result: The command line is activated and prompts you to select components.

Step 2: Selecting the structure

1. Select the desired structure (e.g. steel beam) in your model that is to serve as the mounting base.
2. Confirm the selection with Enter.

Expected result: The structure is highlighted and the system prompts you to select the pipe.

Step 3: Defining the pipe selection

1. Select the pipes to be supported:

   • Individually: Click directly on the respective pipe.
   • Area: Drag a selection window over the desired pipes.
2. Confirm with Enter.

Expected result: The software marks the pipes and calculates possible mounting points.

Step 4: Adjusting the settings

1. Make the configuration in the Support + Clamping system [x] Settings dialog box that appears:

   • Support type: Select the desired type (e.g. U-bolt, threaded rod).
   • Material: Define the material (e.g. galvanized steel).
   • Spacing: Define the Maximum spacing and Minimum distance to component ends.
   • Connection type: Choose between clamp fixing, welding or bolting.
   • Layer assignment: Determine the target layer for the components.
2. Click OK or Apply.

Expected result: The plugin automatically generates the supports and clamping systems in the model.

Step 5: Checking and fine-tuning

1. Visually check whether all pipes are correctly supported and there are no collisions.
2. If necessary, use the standard AutoCAD commands to move or delete individual components.
3. Some parameters can be adjusted afterwards via the Properties Palette.

Expected result: A fully modeled support system according to the technical specifications.

Tips and best practices

• Model precision: The accuracy of the automatic placement depends directly on the geometric precision of the structure.
• Performance: For very large models you should apply the function in smaller sections to optimize the computation time.
• Collision check: After generation, carry out a final check (e.g. with Navisworks) to rule out overlaps.
• Standard shortcuts: Use Enter (confirm), Esc (cancel), F3 (object snap) and F8 (ortho mode).

Troubleshooting

• Command not visible: Check whether the plugin was loaded correctly and the license is active.
• No placement possible: Check the minimum distances in the settings. If these are set too large, this prevents placement.
• Wrong dimensions: Make sure that the pipe diameter is compatible with the clamp sizes stored in the SuCri library.

Related articles

• Selection, marks the components of an assembly.
• Attaching, combines components into an assembly and assigns the SU number.
• Detach, removes individual components from the assembly again.