4.2.17. Bracket + Clamping System [x] (SuCri2AutoSelectMultipleSupportClamp)

Support + Clamping System [x] (SuCri2AutoSelectMultipleSupportClamp)

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

Prerequisites

• Installed AutoCAD Plant 3D or Advance Steel.
• Activated SuCri-Plugin (Module 2).
• An existing 3D model with at least one structural member (e.g., steel beam) and one pipe.
• Access to SuCri commands via the Ribbon.

Step-by-Step Guide

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 on the button Support + Clamping System [x] (Command: SuCri2AutoSelectMultipleSupportClamp).

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

Step 2: Selecting the Structural Member

1. Select the desired structural member (e.g., steel beam) in your model that will serve as the mounting base.
2. Confirm the selection with Enter.

Expected Result: The structural member is highlighted, and the system prompts for the selection of the piping.

Step 3: Defining the Pipe Selection

1. Select the pipes to be supported:
   • Individual: 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. Configure the settings in the appearing Support + Clamping System [x] Settings dialog box:
   • Support Type: Select the desired type (e.g., U-bolt, threaded rod).
   • Material: Specify 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: Review and Fine-Tuning

1. Visually check if all pipes are correctly supported and no collisions exist.
2. If necessary, use 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 technical specifications.

Important Notes

• Model Precision: The accuracy of automatic placement depends directly on the geometric precision of the structural member.
• Performance: For very large models, you should apply the function in smaller sections to optimize processing time.
• Collision Check: Perform a final check after generation (e.g., with Navisworks) to exclude overlaps.
• Standard Shortcuts: Use Enter (Confirm), Esc (Cancel), F3 (Object Snap), and F8 (Ortho Mode).

Troubleshooting

• Command not visible: Check if the plugin is correctly loaded and the license is active.
• No placement possible: Check the Minimum distances in the settings. If these are set too high, it prevents placement.
• Incorrect dimensions: Ensure that the pipe diameter is compatible with the clamp sizes stored in the SuCri library.