MEP Designer is shipped with a Global library: a collection of library packages that contains preconfigured parametric equipment, terminals, and accessories ready to place on your routes.
You can also add or embed additional objects (stay with the project only), or create your own custom library and link to any project as needed.
To view and manage loaded content, open Library Manager at File > Libraries and Objects > Library Manager.
Objects vs Equipments in MEP Designer
In MEP workflows, you will encounter
general Objects and dedicated
MEP Library elements.
Equipment, Terminals, and Accessories are
optimized for MEP workflows: they know how to
connect to routes, inherit system settings, and drive correct transitions.
Use these when you are placing actual MEP devices that must participate in the system.
While
Objects are for placing
generic or architectural content and won't inherit any system settings and can't be connected to the MEP route.
The Object library can contain MEP-compatible parts and/or objects that can be converted to Equipment (depending on the object) by selecting the placed object and using the "
Convert Selection to Equipment" command.
Create Custom Equipment and 2D symbols
You can create your own MEP related Objects and symbols when the default library does not contain the exact component you need.
The usual process is to model the geometry, then save it as a GDL Object into a library, including a clear 2D symbol.
Model the 3D Geometry
- Use basic modeling tools (Slab, Morph, Shell, Beam, Column) to build the required shape at the correct size.
- Add MEP connections where needed:
- Go to Floor Plan or 3D and select the element.
- From the MEP Library, choose the MEP Connection object and place it where a duct/pipe/cable tray should connect.
- Open the MEP Connection’s Settings and set:
- Connection Type / Class: Duct or Pipe (etc.) so it matches the system you want.
- Diameter/size and length to match the manufacturer data.
- MEP System if needed (or let the connecting route drive system)
Save as a custom MEP part
-
Select the 3D elements.
-
Choose File > Libraries and Objects > Save Selection As > MEP Part
-
Give it a meaningful name (e.g. “Manufacturer XYZ AHU 1200”)
-
Choose a subtype from the Type drop-down list.
-
Click Save.
-
The new MEP object is accessible from the tool settings of the chosen subtype.
Create the 2D Symbol
-
Switch to Floor Plan and create a symbol using lines, arcs, fills, and text.
-
Align the 2D graphics with the 3D model’s footprint to ensure a clear plan symbol.
-
Select your symbol drawing.
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Use File > Libraries and Objects > Save Selection As > MEP Symbol.
-
Enter a file name and click Save.
-
Select the MEP object symbol to be replaced (for example, this valve) and open its Object Settings.
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On the MEP Custom Settings page, go to the Visualization tab. Instead of the Built-in Plan Symbol, choose Custom Plan Symbol.
-
-
Click Save.
Import external objects
Many manufacturers provide BIM content in formats like IFC or Revit. With MEP Designer, you can bring these objects into your project and align them with your systems and documentation.
Import Revit content
Import IFC content
- Use File > Interoperability > Merge > Merge from File (works only in floor plan view)
- Select the IFC file and choose a translator from the dropdown menu
- Once imported, you can simplify or group the geometry, add the MEP Connections and save it as an MEP Library part (following the steps above) into your library.
- Depending on the source and the selected translator, it can be imported as an equipment directly