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Civil 3D 2021
by: Shawn Herring
What’s New in Civil 3D 2021
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ES!! Another release of Civil 3D, just as you probably finished installing the latest 2020 “fix”. That was somewhat sarcastic, but I do see some much needed improvements to Autodesk Civil 3D 2021 and all other 2021 products. Anymore, we can’t just look at what’s new in our hero product, but all other complimentary products as well, so I will briefly mention a few of those.
VERSION INTEROPERABILITY Typically, the first question asked is about prior version interoperability. The AutoCAD format for 2021 is also the 2018 format they previously introduced. Meaning you should have no problem going back and forth between 2018, 2019 and 2020. The only exceptions to Civil 3D objects would be the newer Civil 3D object/features will not go backwards, but this shouldn’t be a problem.
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NEW AND ENHANCED PRESSURE NETWORK One of the bigger changes in Civil 3D 2021 is the introduction of path-based pressure networks, and multiple enhancements to the overall Pressure Network workflows. For those that do a lot of subdivision work, or complex pressure systems, you will really like these changes! •
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Pipe Runs – This is a fantastic change to how pressure networks are created and modified. I wish they would do this for gravity networks now. Your pressure network can still remain as one entire network, but you can have separate “runs” within the network. This is great for subdivision development and will make your network much easier to manage. Paths – Fittings can be added and updated automatically when grip edited or moved. For example, if you have a 45-degree bend, and you grip edit a portion of a pipe, that bend can now change to the proper angled bend! Very cool addition. June 2020
