RFA files (Revit Family) are object or component families used in Revit, a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software. These files are essential for creating parametric models and components in Revit. However, AutoCAD, a computer-aided design (CAD) software, does not support the direct import of RFA files. To use an RFA file in AutoCAD, it first needs to be converted into a format that AutoCAD can recognize, such as DWG.
This guide will walk you through the steps to convert an RFA file and successfully insert it into AutoCAD.
How to Insert an RFA File in AutoCAD
Step 1: Export the RFA File to DWG Using Revit
To insert an RFA file into AutoCAD, you’ll first need to open the file in Revit and export it as a DWG file, which AutoCAD can read.
- Open Revit and load the RFA file.
- Navigate to the File tab in Revit.
- Select Export > CAD Formats > DWG.
Tip: Before proceeding with the export, it’s important to verify your export settings to ensure the resulting DWG file is properly formatted. Under the Export Options, you can adjust the DWG layer mapping and the level of detail to ensure that the file suits your needs in AutoCAD.
- Choose the appropriate export settings and save the DWG file.
Step 2: Open the DWG File in AutoCAD
Once the file has been exported from Revit, you can now open it in AutoCAD:
- Launch AutoCAD and open the DWG file by navigating to File > Open or by dragging the file directly into AutoCAD’s workspace.
- Verify that all the components of the Revit Family have been successfully converted and are visible in AutoCAD.
Step 3: Insert the Converted DWG File into Your AutoCAD Project
If you want to insert the DWG file into an existing AutoCAD drawing:
- Type
INSERTin the command line in AutoCAD. - Select the DWG file you converted.
- Place the file in the desired location in your AutoCAD project.
Tip: After inserting the file, ensure that the units and scale of the imported DWG file align with the rest of your project. You can check and adjust the units by typing
UNITSin the command line and setting them according to your requirements.
Step 4: Adjust Scale and Layers
After inserting the DWG file, you might need to make additional adjustments to ensure that everything integrates smoothly:
- Scale the Drawing: If the imported objects appear too large or too small, you may need to scale them. Use the
SCALEcommand in AutoCAD to adjust the size as needed. - Manage Layers: Depending on how the Revit export settings were configured, the objects from the DWG file may appear on different layers. You can manage these layers in AutoCAD by using the
LAYERcommand to turn layers on/off or adjust their properties.
Alternative Methods: Using Conversion Tools
If you do not have access to Revit, there are other methods you can use to convert RFA files into a format that AutoCAD can read:
- Third-Party Converters: Tools like AnyCAD Converter or online services that convert RFA to DWG or DXF are available. These tools allow you to convert RFA files without needing Revit, making it possible to work with the file in AutoCAD.
- Revit to AutoCAD Plugins: Some AutoCAD plugins also support RFA conversion, though they may require additional software.
Final Thoughts
While AutoCAD cannot directly open or insert RFA files, the method of converting RFA to DWG via Revit is a practical workaround. For users without Revit, third-party converters provide an alternative solution. By following these steps and adjusting units and layers, you can seamlessly integrate Revit Family components into your AutoCAD projects.