Manually placing elbows and tees takes hours.VBO Piping Pro automatically generates: Standard 90-degree and 45-degree elbows. Tee junctions and sanitary tees. Concentric and eccentric reducers. Custom-angle bends based on your path. 2. Extensive Component Libraries
: Exports a Bill of Materials (BOM) containing precise lengths, counts, and components.
: Select a group or component of edges, and the tool converts them into pipes based on user-defined settings for size, collection type, and end fittings. Branches Modifier
Use SketchUp’s and 2-Point Arc Tool (A) to draw the route of your pipeline.Ensure all lines are connected continuously. Step 2: Configure Pipe Properties Open the VBO Piping Pro toolbar interface. Select your: Pipe standard (e.g., ASME B36.10). Nominal pipe size (NPS). Schedule/Wall thickness (e.g., Schedule 40, Schedule 80). Insulation thickness (if applicable). Step 3: Choose Connection Types Decide how the fittings should connect. Choose between: Welded : Smooth transitions without visible joints. Flanged : Automatically adds matching flanges at joints. Threaded/Socket Weld : Adds collar extensions to fittings. Step 4: Generate the 3D Model Vbo Piping Pro V2.1.7 Sketchup Plugin
Use the standard SketchUp or Arc tools to trace the path of your pipeline. The plugin utilizes these paths as the core reference axis for extrusion. 2. Configure Piping Properties
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Version 2.1.7 introduces incremental but valuable improvements. Reports from users highlight a more responsive “dynamic preview” mode, where the pipe geometry updates in real time as the centerline is dragged. Additionally, the plugin now exports better data for clash detection—a critical feature when coordinating with structural or HVAC models. Manually placing elbows and tees takes hours
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of what VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 offers, how it improves your workflow, and tips for maximizing its utility. What is VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7?
If you are placing identical valves or specialized pumps, save them as SketchUp components so that updating one updates all instances across your piping network.
: Real-time component adjustments including manual fitting replacement, rotation tweaking, and line breaks for in-line valves. Custom-angle bends based on your path
Previously, editing a pipe’s diameter after placement would break connected fittings. Version 2.1.7 introduces "Smart Propagation," where changing the diameter of a main line automatically resizes branch tees and reducers without manual reconstruction.
Automatically matches the turning angle of your lines.