🛠 A Smarter Way to Process Ductwork in CAMduct
If a model already exists that has been drawn using fabrication parts, you’re sitting on a massive time-saving opportunity — even if it wasn’t drawn in your own configuration or database.
⚠️ The biggest mistake in CAMduct?
Re-entering all the data from existing models manually.
✅ Step 1: Import Using a Temporary Profile
Open the foreign MAJ file in a dedicated import profile. This profile should be a copy of your clean workshop database — one that’s safe to “dirty” temporarily. The goal is to keep your production config safe.
🧰 Step 2: Correct the Essentials with Scripts
Run your automation scripts to:
- Correct connectors, seams, and specs
- Swap incorrect ITMs
- Check sizes, lengths, and anything your team flags
This step alone can save hours compared to manual fixes.
🔢 Step 3: Numbering and Visual Checks
Make sure items are clearly and consistently numbered — especially if a drawing was supplied. It helps both manufacturing and installation teams stay aligned.
🧹 Step 4: Purge Unwanted Data
Before switching to your main profile, purge the job of:
- Redundant specs
- Incorrect connectors
- Unused services/materials
You don’t want leftover junk creeping into your production database.
📂 Step 5: Load Into Your Production Profile
Now that the job is clean, load it into your normal workshop profile. You’re ready to:
- Nest
- Run reports
- Print labels
- Export to production
All without duplicating effort — and without compromising your clean setup.
💡 Final Tip
Ductwork should only be drawn once — it doesn’t matter who did it or which config was used. You’re working smarter, not harder.
Need help putting this workflow in place?
Book a call here — let’s talk.
