Adding a new system type in Revit is typically done by duplicating an existing system type and then customizing its properties to meet your specific design requirements. This allows you to create variations of standard systems with unique graphical appearances, material properties, and other settings.
Understanding System Types
In Revit MEP, systems like Mechanical, Piping, or Electrical have predefined types (e.g., Supply Air, Return Air, Hydronic Supply, Domestic Cold Water). Creating a "new" type means defining a custom version of one of these categories.
Steps to Create a New System Type
Follow these steps to add a new system type:
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Select an Existing System Element: Find an element (like a duct, pipe, or electrical conduit) that belongs to the system category you want to create a new type within (e.g., a piece of Supply Air duct if you want a new Supply Air type).
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Access Type Properties: With the element selected, locate the Properties palette. At the top of the palette, you will see the Type Selector. Click on the "Edit Type" button. This opens the Type Properties dialog box for that specific system type.
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Duplicate the Type: In the Type Properties dialog box, click the "Duplicate" button.
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Name the New Type: A dialog box will appear asking you to name the new type. Enter a clear and descriptive name for your custom system type (e.g., "My Custom Supply Air," "Process Chilled Water"). Click "OK".
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Customize Type Properties: You are now editing the properties for your newly created system type. This is where you define its characteristics.
- According to the reference provided, after accessing the system type and clicking type properties, "Now you can customize type properties such as graphical overrides and materials."
- You can modify settings like:
- Graphical Overrides: Define how elements belonging to this system type will appear in different views (line color, pattern, weight).
- Materials: Assign materials for calculations or rendering.
- Calculations: Adjust settings relevant to analysis (e.g., friction loss factors, voltage drop).
- Abbreviations: Set abbreviations used in tags.
- Rise/Drop Graphics: Define how vertical segments are represented.
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Apply Changes: Once you have finished customizing the properties, click "OK" in the Type Properties dialog box.
Your new system type is now available in the Type Selector for any element belonging to that system category. You can assign this type to new or existing elements.
Why Duplicate an Existing Type?
Duplicating ensures that your new type inherits all the default settings of the original system category, saving you time and ensuring consistency. You only need to modify the settings that you want to be different for your custom type.
By duplicating and customizing, you effectively "add" a new system definition that adheres to your project's specific standards for appearance, calculations, or material specifications.
