Autodesk Fabrication CADmep
Fabrication CADmep is a detailing and documentation software designed for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors. Built on the AutoCAD platform, it enables precise modeling of fabrication-ready MEP systems to support accurate construction and off-site prefabrication.
Fabrication-Ready MEP Modeling
CADmep allows you to design detailed MEP models using real-world manufacturer content, including ductwork, piping, and electrical systems. With data-rich components, the software supports accurate material quantities and labor estimates for more predictable project outcomes.
Seamless Integration with BIM Workflows
Easily coordinate your fabrication models with BIM teams using Autodesk Revit and Navisworks. CADmep supports importing and exporting of design-intent models, enhancing collaboration between design and construction teams.
Accurate Takeoffs and Cost Tracking
Generate precise bill of materials (BOMs), spool drawings, and reports for procurement and fabrication. CADmep supports labor tracking, fabrication-level detailing, and job costing—helping contractors stay on budget and on schedule.
Key Features
- Fabrication-ready modeling for duct, pipe, and electrical systems
- Extensive manufacturer content libraries
- Integration with ESTmep and CAMduct for end-to-end workflows
- Real-time BOMs, costing, and material tracking
- Built on AutoCAD for familiar drafting environment
- Supports spool drawing generation and prefabrication planning
Who Uses Fabrication CADmep?
Fabrication CADmep is used by MEP contractors, detailers, and fabrication shops involved in commercial and industrial building projects. It’s ideal for teams that require constructible models, precise takeoffs, and smooth handoff between design and fabrication.
⚠️ IMPORTANT:
Windows Only: Fabrication CADmep is Windows Only. It does not support macOS.
Host Software: CADmep is an add-on. You must have a compatible version of AutoCAD (or AutoCAD Architecture/MEP) already installed to run it.
Configuration Database: Performance is heavily dependent on the location of your Fabrication Database (ITM content). Storing this on a slow network drive will severely impact performance.
🔧 System Requirements: Fabrication CADmep (2023–2026)
| Operating System (OS) |
64-bit Windows 10 (v1809+)<br>64-bit Windows 11
|
Windows 11<br>(Aligned with host AutoCAD requirements)
|
| Host Software |
Autodesk AutoCAD 2023–2026 |
Autodesk AutoCAD 2023–2026 |
| Processor (CPU) |
2.5–2.9 GHz (Basic Processor) |
3.0 GHz+ (Base), 4.0 GHz+ (Turbo)<br>(Detailing and "Fill" commands are single-threaded; High GHz is essential)
|
| Memory (RAM) |
16 GB |
32 GB (Standard)<br>64 GB (For large multi-floor coordination models)
|
| Graphics (GPU) |
4 GB VRAM<br>DirectX 11 compliant
|
8 GB – 12 GB VRAM<br>DirectX 12 compliant<br>(Required for smooth orbiting of high-LOD fabrication models)
|
| Disk Space |
2 GB (Add-on only)<br>+ 10 GB (Host AutoCAD)
|
SSD (Solid State Drive)<br>Critical: The local cache and Database folder should be on an NVMe SSD.
|
| Display |
1920 x 1080 True Color |
3840 x 2160 (4K)<br>Dual Monitors highly recommended
|
| Network |
TCP/IP capable |
Gigabit LAN / Fiber<br>(If the Database is stored on a server, low latency is vital)
|
| Framework |
.NET Framework 4.8 |
.NET 8 (For 2025/2026) |
💡 Performance Advice for Fabrication CADmep Users
The Database Bottleneck:
Fabrication CADmep reads thousands of small files (ITM items) from the database folder.
Best Practice: Store the master database on a server, but copy/sync it to a Local SSD (C: Drive) for daily work. Working directly off a slow VPN or Wi-Fi connection is painfully slow.
RAM Usage:
Fabrication models (LOD 400) contain fully detailed hangers, flanges, and valves. These are much heavier than standard design models. 32 GB RAM is the industry standard for Detailers.
Graphics (GPU):
Viewing a fully detailed mechanical room with "Shaded" or "Conceptual" visual styles requires a strong GPU. An NVIDIA RTX 4060 or RTX A2000 is a good starting point.
Mac Users:
Not Supported.
Running CADmep via Parallels Desktop is possible (since it runs inside AutoCAD), but maintaining the link to the company database can be tricky in a virtualized network environment. A native Windows PC is strongly preferred.
