The pipe networks feature references a part catalog and a parts list that define the size, shape, and certain behavior of the parts (pipes and structures) you insert into drawings.
The AutoCAD Civil 3D part catalog contains definitions for all the pipe network parts that you can insert into a drawing. It is organized at the top level into two basic domains — one for pipe parts, such as cylindrical or rectangular pipes, and another for structure parts, such as headwalls, catch basins, and so on.
Part catalog content is further organized into types, subtypes (also referred to as shapes), and part families. The following table illustrates how the default part catalogs are organized for pipe parts and structure parts.
The files that make up the part catalog content are typically installed to this location: C:\Documents and Settings\All Users\Application Data\AutoCAD\AutoCAD Civil 3D2013\enu\Pipes Catalog.
A parts list contains a set of pipe network parts – pipes and structures – that you can use in a pipe network. You have parts lists so that you do not have to navigate through the entire part catalog looking for the specific pipe network part that you need.
When you open a new blank drawing by selecting a AutoCAD Civil 3D drawing template, you will typically find default parts lists available, such as Standard. You can create your own parts lists to suit the needs of each project. For example, you may want to create a parts list that contains only the types of parts you will use in a particular project or pipe network. This saves you from having to navigate through the entire part catalog to select a part. While there is only one pipe network part catalog included with AutoCAD Civil 3D, you can create multiple parts lists for your projects.
A parts list also serves as a way to store defaults, such as styles, render materials and design criteria (rules) to any given part upon creation. Parts lists are objects that you can access through the Pipe Network Properties dialog box, the Pipe Network Layout Tools toolbar, and the Toolspace Settings tree.
You can also create a Full Parts list that contains all of the parts that exist in the current metric or imperial part catalog. For more information, see Creating a Full Parts List.
Topics in this section
- Creating a Parts List
You can create a parts list that contains only the parts (pipes and structures) you will need on a specific pipe network, drawing, or project.
- Creating a Full Parts List
You can create a parts list that contains all of the part types and associated sizes that exist in the currently selected metric or imperial part catalog.
- Copying a Parts List
You can copy an existing parts list in your drawing and give it a new name, or you can copy a parts list from one drawing to another.
- Adding a Part Family to a Parts List
Add a part family from the pipe network part catalog to a parts list.
- Adding Part Sizes to a Parts List
After a part family is added to a parts list, select the part sizes you want to be available in that part family.
- Assigning Optional Properties to a Part Size
To add further definition to a part, such as a name for a material, you can assign optional properties to a part size definition in a parts list.
- Setting the Pipe Network Part Catalog
You can configure AutoCAD Civil 3D to access the imperial or the metric pipe network part catalog, or to access specific folders for pipe and structure parts content.
- Editing Part Family Sizes
Use the Part Builder feature to change the part sizes that are available in a part family.
- Sample Part Family Size Editing
This sample exercise walks you through how to edit the part sizes that are available in a part family.
- Viewing Part Catalog Content
Use an Internet Explorer window to view content from a published part catalog.