From SAP2000 to IFC

This article explains how to send a SAP2000 model to IFC file, using BIM Expert.

1. Preparation in SAP2000

An IFC file can handle geometry and loads.  So, the export can be as complete as you prefer, as long as these items are present in SAP2000.

2. Send the SAP2000 model to IFC

2.1 From SAP2000 to BIM Expert

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination software manufacturer, namely ‘Computer and Structures, Inc’ (CSI) . Click  to continue. Choose ‘SAP2000’

2.2.1 Settings

Select your SAP2000 version, the destination and analysis model.  The destination can be either:

• To a new empty model in a new instance – after the file is loaded you immediately will be prompted to save the file
• To current instance and new empty model

SAP2000 will launch automatically in case of ‘new instance’ choice. Next, the BIM Expert sections and materials must be mapped with SAP2000’s section and materials. BIM Expert will try to find as many automatic mapping matches as possible. In case all sections and materials find a match, you will not see any dialogs for mapping.

2.2.2 Material mapping

In a new file, SAP2000 only has 2 materials present: Steel S355 and Concrete 30/37. Chances are real that you see the material mapping dialog.  If you cannot find a suited counterpart in the SAP2000 model, the material can be added as new.

2.1.3 Section mapping

A new SAP2000 model has no cross-sections. So all will be added as new.  

2.2 From BIM Expert to IFC

In the Model tab, select ‘Export’. Next, choose the destination, namely “IFC’. Click to continue.

By default, your IFC file be saved in the following folder

%localappdata%\BuildSoft\BIM Expert\Ifc

2.2.1 Export options

You can specify the defaults in ‘File > Settings > IFC’, such as the IFC version (scheme), file format, the destination folder and action to take after the save.

Unchecking the ‘Always use default settings’, will allow you set the options at every export operation.