MEP Element Settings

MEP-compatible Library Parts (with smart connections for use in duct, pipe and cabling systems) are found in both the MEP Library and in the regular ARCHICAD Library. Both libraries are loaded automatically as part of the default ARCHICAD template

MEP element Tool Settings are analogous to ARCHICAD’s Object settings.

See also MEP-Compatible Library Parts.

MEP Element Display on Stories

Use the “Show on Story” setting (Floor Plan and Section panel).

The default option for all MEP elements is “All Relevant Stories”.

Straight segments are displayed as cut on the intersected stories.

Other (non-straight) MEP elements that intersect stories do not have cut displays - they are shown either on one story or the other.

MEP Custom Settings Panel

This has two or three tab pages depending on the object: General, Visualization, and Connection Settings.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/081_mepmodeler/DuctBendDB.png 

General Settings (MEP Element Custom Settings)

Enter the basic geometry of this MEP object (such as Length of the duct).

For some MEP objects, the range of possible values depends on other values.

For example, the Length of a Duct Tee (set here in the General Settings tab page) cannot be less than the width of the T-Branch (set in the Connections tab page) that comes off of it.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/081_mepmodeler/TeeLength.png 

Bend Radius

For Bend-type elements. When Routing, you can use this default value (“as in element settings”). (See Bending Radius (Routing Options).

Insulation

Check this box if you wish to include an insulating layer on the element’s outside surface. Then enter the insulation’s Thickness value in the field below.

MEP System

See Assign MEP System in Tool Settings.

Visualization Tab (MEP Element Custom Settings)

Assign custom parameters for the element’s Plan Symbol and 3D View.

These custom parameters override the MEP System attributes assigned to this element.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/081_mepmodeler/VizTabPage.png 

If you have adjusted the surface definition here, the MEP System definition applied to this MEP element changes to “Undefined.”

To revert to the surface defined in the MEP System:

1.Go to the MEP System control (on the General or Connections tab): it is currently “Undefined.”

2.Choose a specific MEP System

3.Return to the Visualization tab page

4.Check the Use System Surface box.

Connections Tab (MEP Element Custom Settings)

Set parameters for each connection port.

Use the pop-up to switch among the connections (if there is more than one), and edit each of them separately.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/081_mepmodeler/EditWye.png 

The 2D Symbol object preview on the Preview and Positioning panel gives you feedback on which connection you are editing.

https://helpcenter.graphisoft.com/wp-content/uploads/archicad-25/081_mepmodeler/2DSymbolMEP.png 

Wall Thickness

This is the thickness of the MEP element’s wall.

Connection Type

Choose a Connection Type as applicable. For example, a ductwork element’s connection can either be simple or flanged.

MEP System

See Assign MEP System to Each Element Connection

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