MTO on the drawing – incorrect representation of profiles
In this article, you will learn how to ensure a correct evaluation of profiles on your drawings by choosing the right bill of materials templates and configuring filters. This is crucial to avoid an unwanted mixing of piping and structural components in the Material Take-Off (MTO).
Prerequisites
- You are working with AutoCAD Plant 3D and using the MTO function directly on the drawing.
- You are using profile systems (e.g., Sikla) or Python profiles in your project.
Step-by-Step Instructions
To correct the incorrect representation of profiles, please perform the following steps:
- Choosing the Correct Template: For structural components and profiles, always use the Steel Bill of Materials Template instead of the pipe template. Result: Plant 3D only evaluates components assigned to the correct profile class.
- Adjust Filters (for Python profiles): If you are using Python profiles that are technically assigned to the Support class, you must open the filter settings of the bill of materials. Click on Set Filter.
- Restrict Object Classes: Configure the filter so that only the Supports class is displayed and the Pipes class is explicitly hidden. Result: The list now only shows the desired profiles without the associated pipelines.
- Update Project Templates: Check your drawing templates (DWT files) and store the correct bill of materials templates there for the respective evaluation.
Important Notes
- Automation: If the Pipe Bill of Materials template is used, Plant 3D automatically pulls in all components of the Piping class – this is the main cause of incorrect lists.
- Best Practice: Define standards within your project team so that the Steel Bill of Materials is consistently used for steel or support profiles.
Troubleshooting
- Problem: Profiles do not appear in the list despite using the steel template.
Solution: Check the class assignment of the component in the catalog or in the model. Components must be defined as Steel or Support. - Problem: The bill of materials on the drawing does not update.
Solution: Run the command to synchronize the bill of materials manually or re-place the table.