What Is The Difference Between AutoCad Compare with HVAC CAD?

AutoCAD is used extensively by engineering and architectural companies when they design structures. Both software packages are able to be used for the creation of plans for construction, but there are also important distinctions. AutoCAD is often seen as competing products, but they actually complement each other and are both offered by Autodesk.

AutoCAD is a drafting software that depicts buildings based on their geometry. Plant 3D on contrary, is a modeling tool that allows buildings' components to be identified by their function. The model may include technical specifications as well as pricing information.

AutoCAD's air ducts, for example are lines used to indicate dimensions and layout.

On the other hand, HVAC CAD can identify ducts as MEP CAD system components, with their corresponding specifications.

These features allow HVAC CAD to function as the Building Information Modeling tool (BIM) which is not available using AutoCAD.

The HVAC and AutoCAD CADs: A Brief Introduction to Each Software

AutoCAD has been in use for longer than MEP CAD, since the 1982 release by Autodesk. Since the time, AutoCAD has been upgraded often, and current versions have cloud storage as well as mobile device compatibility. AutoCAD is a leading drawing software manufacturer that has been in existence for more than 40 years.

HVAC CAD Technology Corporation launched the first version of HVAC CAD in the year 2000. The name of the product is a contraction of "revise it". HVAC CAD goes beyond simple drafting, allowing the creating of intelligent building models within an environment that is virtual. After recognizing the power of HVAC CAD Technology Corporation, Autodesk bought it in 2002.

Overview of AutoCAD

AutoCAD can be described as a digital drawing tool, meaning that the drawings are rendered geometrically. For the program, all elements of a building are geometric and there is no data regarding their physical properties or how they interact.

Assume you have four separate views of the same building.

Because you're using a geometric representation, updating one view is not a factor on the others.

Each view has to be edited in a separate way to reflect changes.

AutoCAD is a tool that can be used to create precise linework and 2D drafting, however it's not a tool to build modeling. AutoCAD can create 3D models and renders. But, they're still geometric models without any details about the components.

When creating with AutoCAD collaboration between engineering teams is crucial as every change must be updated individually. Before you make any modifications you should ensure that it does not conflict with the building systems designed by other teams.

When is AutoCAD recommended?

AutoCAD is a great tool to assist in renovations or upgrades of buildings that are already in use, even if the original designs were created in 2D. It is extremely compatible among versions from different years, and working with older version is not a problem. A lot of engineers and property managers have large collections of AutoCAD files in the format DWG. This makes difficult to create HVAC CAD models to be used in these projects. Keep in mind that when we are executing an 2D or 3D modeling design project, you require a top-quality workstation together with high-quality equipment like mice for 3D modeling and CAD as well as powerful software. There are many AutoCAD alternative products in the marketplace.

AutoCAD's latest version now supports the integration of PDF. This is a useful option for plans of construction that aren't available in DWG format.

AutoCAD is able to import PDF files and transform the files into DWG and then identify linework and text.

AutoCAD can be used to share views via cloud-based technology. Views can be viewed by the other employees without having to install the software.

AutoCAD is now compatible with 3D printing making it simpler to design prototypes.

HVAC CAD Overview

HVAC CAD allows for the creation of 3D models of buildings. These include not only geometry but also the physical properties as well as the interactions between the parts. HVAC CAD also makes modifications simpler, as all design teams work on the same model.

For example, if plumbing installation is in conflict with HVAC installations, HVAC CAD can detect the conflict immediately and notify the designers.

The management of changes managing changes HVAC CAD is easier because changes reflect on all the existing views. In AutoCAD, design engineers may need to modify several files if there is an alteration.

This is a benefit of HVAC CAD. Project documents are completed faster.

HVAC CAD can also be useful for material takeoff as well as when preparing the bid for a project. It is able to automatically create cost schedules since it includes technical specifications, as well as price of components.

The primary drawback of HVAC CAD is that the model of the building is governed by a set of rules that are rigid. This is true for 2D view and drafts. AutoCAD allows for more flexibility when working using linework.