Let’s walk through a real-world example using the new v217 features.
Step 1: Configuration
Launch the VBO Manager. Set your project standard to "ASME B16.9." Select "Schedule 40 Steel" and set the default diameter to 4 inches.
Step 2: Drawing the Main Header
Use the Draw Pipe tool. Unlike older versions where you had to click center points, v217 allows "Surface Snapping." Click on a pump nozzle. Hold Ctrl (Option on Mac) to lock the axis. Draw a 20-foot run. Notice the real-time clamp detection? It turns yellow when you are close to a wall.
Step 3: Branching
Select the main pipe where you want a branch. Use the new Auto Tee tool. The plugin cuts the pipe, inserts a reducing tee, and allows you to drag the branch line upward. In v216, this required three separate steps. In v217, it is one fluid motion.
Step 4: Adding Valves
Open the Library v217. Search for "Butterfly Valve." Click to place it between two flanges. The plugin automatically shortens the pipe spool on either side to accommodate the valve length.
Step 5: The BOM
Right-click a group of pipes. Select Generate Report. v217 exports a CSV file listing every elbow, flange, gasket, and length of straight pipe needed for the purchase order.
If you want, I can:
VBO Piping Pro is a SketchUp extension designed to automate the creation of complex piping systems from simple edge paths
. While version "v217" typically refers to an older iteration (the current version on the Extension Warehouse is 3.1.1.1), the core workflow remains consistent. SketchUp Extension Warehouse 1. Installation : The plugin is usually delivered as a : In SketchUp, go to Window > Extension Manager Install Extension Activation
: For Pro versions, you will receive login credentials via email (often within 12 hours of purchase) to activate the license within the plugin's menu. SketchUp Community 2. Core Workflow
The plugin operates by converting basic geometry into detailed MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems. SketchUp Extension Warehouse How to Download and install SketchUp Plugins?!
The VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 SketchUp plugin is a powerful extension designed for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) professionals and 3D modelers looking to automate complex piping layouts. This latest iteration streamlines the conversion of simple edges and vertices into detailed 3D pipe branches with automated fitting placement. Core Capabilities of VBO Piping Pro
The plugin's primary function is to transform wireframe lines into fully realized MEP systems. Key features included in this professional suite are:
Automated Branch Building: Converts all interior edges within a selected group or component into 3D pipes. Users can specify pipe collections, sizes, and the types of fittings for both endpoints and junctions through a dedicated input box. vbo piping pro v217 sketchup plugin new
Branch Modification Tools: A versatile toolset for post-generation editing. You can manually rotate or replace fittings, add or swap reducer bushes, and redraw entire branches.
2D/3D Instant Switching: Effortlessly toggle between 2D schematic views and 3D detailed models. This is managed via dedicated layers (8_mep_piping2D and 8_mep_piping3D), allowing for fast drafting and final presentation.
Dynamic Updating: Double-clicking a branch enters the "source" group where you can edit the original lines and vertices. Once you exit the group, the 3D pipe model automatically updates to match the new geometry. Pipe Collections & Material Support
The Pro version comes pre-loaded with seven comprehensive pipe collections to meet various industry standards:
Metals & Plastics: Includes Metal, PVC (Class 8.5 & 13.5), HDPE, and PPR. Specialty Pipes: Weld, Electrical conduit, and more.
BOM Generation: In conjunction with the VBO_Schedule Plugin, users can generate a complete Bill of Materials for all pipes and fittings in the model. Version 2.1.7 Specifics
The v2.1.7 release focuses on stability and performance enhancements across newer versions of Trimble SketchUp. While earlier versions were often optimized for SketchUp 2018-2020, this update ensures smoother operation on modern operating systems like Windows 10 and 11. Developer VBO Solutions / KCDA Compatibility SketchUp 2019 or newer (optimized for Windows) File Format .rbz (Install via SketchUp Extension Manager) Licensing
Pro account supports use on up to 2 computers simultaneously Installation & Usage Tips To get started with VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7: Facebook·SKETCHUP & LAYOUT ARTIST SketchUp & Layout Plumbing thanks to VBO Piping pro plugin
Streamlining MEP Workflows with VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 for SketchUp
The VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 plugin is a powerful script for Trimble SketchUp designed to automate the creation of complex piping systems from simple edge networks. By transforming lines within selected groups or components into detailed 3D pipes and automatically placing fittings at vertices, this extension significantly reduces the time required for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) modeling. Key Features of VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7
This version introduces several advanced tools aimed at professional designers who need precision and efficiency:
Build Pipes Branch: Instantly converts all internal edges of a selected group into pipes. Users can customize the collection type, pipe size, and specific fitting types (ending and continue) through a dedicated input box.
Comprehensive Branches Modifier: A versatile editing tool that allows users to rotate fittings, manually replace components, add or replace reduced bushes, and redraw entire branches. It also supports copying/pasting fittings and replacing custom SKP components. Let’s walk through a real-world example using the
Dual 2D/3D Display: Quickly toggle between a detailed 3D view for presentation and a simplified 2D view for technical drawings by switching the "8_mep_piping2D" and "8_mep_piping3D" layers.
Dynamic Updating: Double-clicking a branch enters an edit mode where you can modify the source edges. Once you finish editing the group, the branch automatically updates to match its predefined settings.
BOM Generation: The plugin can generate a detailed Bill Of Materials (BOM) for all pipes and fittings, which is essential for cost estimation and material procurement. Supported Pipe Collections
VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 comes pre-loaded with seven distinct pipe collections to cover various engineering needs: PVC (Class 8.5 & 13.5) Electrical System Requirements and Installation
To ensure optimal performance, the following specifications are recommended:
Operating System: Windows 10 or newer (Mac users may have success with BigSur, though it is less tested).
Software: SketchUp 2019 or newer is required, with SketchUp 2020.1 and later versions offering the best stability and speed.
Installation: The plugin is typically delivered as a compressed .zip file. After purchasing from sites like the SketchUp Extension Warehouse, you will receive an installer and license keys.
Licensing: A single account generally supports use on two different computers or versions of SketchUp simultaneously. Professional Impact
For designers, the primary benefit of VBO Piping Pro is its ability to bypass the "ugly" and tedious manual process of using the "Follow Me" tool for complex paths. By automating fitting placement and allowing for easy 2D/3D toggling, it serves as a bridge between conceptual 3D design and practical MEP documentation. VBO PIPING PRO - SketchUp Extension Warehouse
The VBO Piping Pro plugin is a widely recognized tool for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) modeling within Trimble SketchUp. Version 2.1.7 is a significant iteration of the software that automates the creation of 3D piping systems from simple edge networks. Core Functionality
The plugin's primary workflow revolves around converting selected edges or components into detailed piping branches.
Build Pipes Branch: Converts all internal edges of a selected group into pipes. Users can select the collection (material), size, and fitting types from an input dialog. VBO Piping Pro is a SketchUp extension designed
Automatic Fittings: Automatically adds appropriate fittings (elbows, tees, etc.) at vertices based on the angle and pipe size.
2D/3D Toggling: Allows users to switch rapidly between 2D schematic views and 3D geometric models by managing dedicated layers (e.g., 8_mep_piping2D). Key Features in V2.1.7
While the latest version of the software has moved to Version 3.x, version 2.1.7 remains popular for its stability on older SketchUp versions.
Collection Support: Includes presets for Metal, PVC, HDPE, PPR, Weld, and Electrical systems.
Branches Modifier: A manual editing tool that lets you rotate or replace fittings, add reduction bushes, and redraw specific segments without re-modeling the entire branch.
BOM Generation: Can generate a Bill of Materials for all pipes and fittings when used in conjunction with the VBO Schedule Plugin.
Dynamic Updates: If you edit the source edges (by double-clicking the group), the 3D pipe updates automatically upon exiting the group. Technical Considerations VBO pipe plugin - Extensions - SketchUp Community
The wait is over. We are thrilled to announce the release of VBO Piping Pro v217, the latest update to the essential piping plugin for SketchUp professionals.
Whether you are designing complex industrial piping systems, HVAC layouts, or residential plumbing, VBO Piping Pro has become a go-to tool for SketchUp users who need parametric control without the heavy learning curve. With version v217, the toolset becomes even more powerful, stable, and user-friendly.
Here is everything you need to know about the new release.
In the world of 3D modeling, SketchUp has long been celebrated for its intuitive approach to architecture and woodworking. However, for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) engineers and piping designers, the native tools often fall short. That gap has been aggressively closed with the release of the VBO Piping Pro v217 SketchUp plugin new update.
This latest iteration isn't just a minor patch; it is a paradigm shift in how professionals handle fluid transport design within the SketchUp ecosystem. Whether you are designing a complex chemical plant, a residential HVAC system, or a firefighting water line, this plugin promises to cut your modeling time by over 50%.
Let’s dive deep into what makes VBO Piping Pro v217 the must-have tool for 2025.
The headline feature of the v217 release is the "Smart Route Finder." Previously, connecting two points required manually placing elbows, tees, and reducers. Now, you simply select two connectors (or faces) and the plugin analyzes the 3D space. It automatically avoids existing geometry, selects the shortest path with the fewest fittings, and generates a fully flanged system in seconds.
