Example : identifies a flanged ball valve, while VBSW identifies a socket-welded ball valve. AutoCAD Plant 3D 2025 - Isometrics SKEYS / End Connections
Are you working with projects? What specific piping component are you trying to map?
: Never allow designers to manually type SKEYs into the 3D model properties palette. SKEYs should always be locked down at the Spec and Catalog level to maintain data integrity.
. It serves as the primary link between the physical model and the schematic output, ensuring that a complex 3D valve or fitting is translated into a standard industry symbol. The Mechanics of SKEY Mapping
Standard out-of-the-box symbols do not always meet specific company or project requirements. When custom instruments or specialized components are added, you must manually assign or modify SKEYs. 1. Assigning SKEYs in the Spec Editor autocad plant 3d iso symbol skey
Input the correct four-character code (e.g., ELBW for a butt-weld elbow).
3D Component → SKEY Attribute → 2D Block in DWG → Isometric Linework
If your project requires a custom component (e.g., a proprietary sampling valve or specialized instrument) that doesn't fit standard conventions, you must configure a custom SKEY. Step 1: Create the 2D Graphical Block
(e.g., VALVE, FLANGE) defines how a component behaves and is categorized in the bill of materials, the determines its visual appearance on the isometric drawing. How SKEYs Work An SKEY is typically a combination of two letters for the component type and two letters for the end connection : For example, in the SKEY stands for "Valve, Ball." stands for "Butt Weld." Example : identifies a flanged ball valve, while
If the standard library doesn't have what you need, you can build your own by following these steps from the Official Autodesk Documentation :
If you are using a socket-weld valve, verify the SKEY ends in SW (e.g., VTSW ), which tells the engine to automatically insert socket weld symbols at the ports. Issue 3: The Custom Symbol Scaling is Distorted
The final step is to create the actual 2D symbol that will appear on your isometric drawings. The block name must match the AcadBlock from the XML file.
When your breaks, the symptoms are usually: : Never allow designers to manually type SKEYs
Many owners (refineries, chemical plants) have their own isometric symbol standards (e.g., a specific way to draw a rupture disc or a steam trap). By modifying the SKEY mapping, you can make Plant 3D follow client rules without changing the 3D model.
Standard catalogs cover roughly 90% of industrial piping components. However, when your project requires specialty items—such as a specific automated control valve, a proprietary sampling port, or a custom strainers—you must map a custom SKEY.
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