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Documentation

How to Simplify a Revit Model for CFD?

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Revit to SimScale Workflow


The Revit to SimScale Workflow is described in 3 main steps that are listed below:

1- Clean and Prepare in Revit
2- Export in ASIC/ .SAT format from Revit
3- Import to SimScale and finalize for Simulation


It is sensible to simplify most Revit models before attempting a CFD analysis.

1. Clean and Prepare model in Revit

The first step is to “Check Model & Define Scope”. Decide what to include for analysis from the below example list :

– Main Components
– External furniture
– Minor furniture
– Insignificant internal detail
– Complex components




The second step is to use the Visibility Graphics Override (vg) to simplify and suppress groups.

– Type keyboard “vg”
– Turn off useless groups and components
– Keep essential groups ON

The Essential groups may include e.g Ceilings, Columns, Curtain panel, Curtain system, walls, Doors, Ducts, Duct fittings, Floors, Mass, Roofs, Parts, Windows

Turn OFF annotations
– Type keyboard “vg” again and click the Tab: Annotation Categories and Uncheck All

Use section box to export only a Section of the full model in Revit.

2. Export in ASIC/ .SAT format from Revit

  • Click ‘File’
  • ‘Export’ > ‘CAD Formats’
  • “ACIS (.SAT)”

3. Prepare model for Simulation in SimScale CAD Mode

Click on the model to edit in CAD Mode, see details Here on how to ?

Main preparation steps:
– Delete parts
– Replace parts
– Close gaps
– and the final step to Create Flow Volume


Here is a short (3 minute) guide on how to do the main steps:

Last updated: April 6th, 2026

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