How to Merge an IFC Project or File in Archicad?

Important note: We do not recommend using this method to work with IFC files, due to the slowdown this will cause to the project in Archicad.

Merging a project or IFC file into your Archicad project lets you integrate external models smoothly. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth merge process:

1. Start the Merge Process

1. Open your Archicad project.
2. Go to File > Interoperability > Merge...
3. In the dialog box, select the IFC file format and choose the IFC file you want to merge.
4. Merge Options: File vs. BIMcloud:
   • Merge from File: Use this option when the IFC file is stored locally on your computer or network. Go to File > Interoperability > Merge > Merge from File... Select the file containing the existing project model and proceed with the merge settings.
   • Merge from BIMcloud: Use this option when the IFC file is stored in BIMcloud, allowing collaborative access and management. Go to File > Interoperability > Merge > Merge from BIMcloud... Select the file from BIMcloud and proceed with the merge settings.

2. Choose an IFC Translator

1. If the required IFC Translator setting is not available in the Archicad project file, use an Archicad template file that contains the required Translator.
2. Make sure the template file is correctly set up with the necessary settings before proceeding.
3. From the drop-down list, select an IFC Translator from the current host project.
4. You can view a summary of the selected Translator's settings by choosing Info... in the Merge dialog box.

3. Building and Site Selection

1. If the IFC file contains multiple buildings or sites, a Building Selection dialog box will appear.
2. Archicad can import multiple buildings if they are included in the IFC file. However, if the file contains several buildings, it will only import the site and building the user chooses in the Building Selection dialog box.

4. Library Parts Location

1. Choose where to save the Library Parts generated during IFC import. The external location is recommended.
2. Make sure the destination folder has write permissions to avoid import failures.

5. Position of the Merged File

1. Align the merged file with the Project Origin or the Survey Point of the Archicad model.
2. Match the stories automatically or customise the story placement as needed.
3. Adjust the vertical position of the imported model using the Elevation Offset.

Best Practices for Merging IFC Projects

1. Check for Duplicate Elements: Before merging, make sure there are no duplicate elements in the IFC file and the Archicad project to avoid conflicts and redundancies.
2. Use Layers Effectively: Import IFC elements on separate layers to manage and isolate them easily. This helps keep a project clean and organised.
3. Regularly Update Translators: Keep your IFC Translators up to date to ensure compatibility with the latest IFC standards and improve import accuracy.

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Performance Optimisation: For large IFC files, consider using simplified geometry import settings to improve performance and reduce file size.

By following these steps and best practices, you can effectively merge a project or IFC file into your Archicad project. This process makes sure the imported elements integrate correctly and retain their intended structure and data.

If you have any specific questions or need further help, feel free to ask us!