After installing v2.17, go to Extensions > VBO Piping Pro > Reset Toolbars. The new icons for “Quick Tee” and “Flange Rotate” have been rearranged for easier access.
Also, clear your old pipe library cache (Preferences > VBO > Clear Cache) before loading an older project. This prevents mismatched fitting definitions.
Have you tried v217 yet? Let us know in the comments what you think of the new features and how it’s helping your current projects! Happy Modeling
The VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 plugin is widely regarded as one of the fastest and most efficient tools for creating plumbing plans and 3D piping layouts in SketchUp. It streamlines the process of converting simple lines into complex 3D MEP systems with automatic fittings. Key Features and Performance
Automated Pipe Generation: It automatically converts edges within selected groups or components into 3D pipes.
Intelligent Fittings: The plugin adds appropriate fittings (elbows, tees, etc.) to vertices automatically.
Comprehensive Collections: Version 2.1.7 includes 7 pre-set pipe collections, including Metal, PVC (Class 8.5 & 13.5), HDPE, PPR, Weld, and Electrical.
Dynamic Modifiers: The "Branches Modifier" tool allows you to rotate, manually replace fittings, add or replace reducing bushes, and redraw branches.
2D/3D Toggle: You can quickly switch between detailed 3D views and 2D graphics by toggling specific MEP layers.
Bill of Materials (BOM): It can automatically generate a BOM for both pipes and fittings, which is crucial for estimation. Expert and User Insights My work flow - SketchUp Forums
VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 is an extension for Trimble SketchUp that automates the creation of 3D piping systems and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) layouts from simple line networks. While newer versions (v3.1+) have since expanded into full MEP systems including ducts and cable trays, version 2.1.7 remains a stable iteration for focused piping workflows. Key Features and Capabilities Automated Generation
: Converts all inside edges within a selected group or component into a piping branch with customizable sizes and collections. Intelligent Fittings
: Automatically adds fittings (such as sockets, elbows, and end caps) to the vertices of your line path. Advanced Branch Modifier Manual Replacement vbo piping pro v217 sketchup plugin new
: Allows you to right-click a fitting to swap it with alternatives like ball valves or flanges. : Click on a fitting to rotate its position on the pipe. Reductions
: Add or replace "reduce bushes" to change pipe diameters within a single run. 2D/3D Toggle
: Quickly switch between detailed 3D models and lightweight 2D symbolic views by toggling specific layers. Bill of Materials (BOM) : Integrates with the VBO_Schedule Plugin to generate a complete inventory of pipes and fittings. Extension Warehouse Usage Tips VBO PIPING PRO - SketchUp Extension Warehouse
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.
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 After installing v2
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 release of the vbo piping pro v217 sketchup plugin new marks a maturation of SketchUp as a serious MEP tool. If you are a freelancer, small engineering firm, or HVAC installer who relies on accurate fabrication drawings, this $199 upgrade (or $399 full license) will pay for itself on the first project.
Don't get left behind using static, dumb solids. Embrace the intelligence of parametric elbows, AI routing, and real-time clash detection.
Ready to install? Visit the official VBO Software website or the SketchUcation store to download the VBO Piping Pro v217 trial (15 days full functionality). Revolutionize your piping workflow today.
Note: “VBO Piping Pro v217 SketchUp plugin new” is a fictional software title created for this writing exercise, representing current industry trends in MEP plugins.
The VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 plugin is a specialized extension for SketchUp designed to automate the creation and management of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) piping systems. This version continues to build on the core functionality of converting simple line segments into complex 3D pipe networks with automatic fitting placement. Key Features and Functions
The plugin streamlines the modeling of pipe branches, conduit systems, and other linear MEP components. Have you tried v217 yet
Build Pipes Branch: Select a group or component containing edges, and the tool converts all internal lines into 3D pipes. Users can specify the pipe collection, size, and the type of ending or continuous fittings through an input dialog.
Intelligent Fittings: Fittings are automatically added to vertices where edges meet. The Branches Modifier tool allows you to manually rotate, replace, or add reducers and bushes.
Dynamic Updating: Double-clicking a pipe branch allows you to edit the original source edges and vertices; the 3D geometry updates automatically once you exit the edit mode.
2D/3D Display Toggle: Rapidly switch between 2D schematic views and 3D models by toggling specific MEP layers ("8_mep_piping2D" and "8_mep_piping3D") for better performance or documentation.
BOM Generation: When used with the VBO_Schedule Plugin, it can generate a detailed Bill of Materials (BOM) for all pipes and fittings in the model. Workflow Integration
For professionals using SketchUp for mechanical or plumbing design, the VBO Piping Pro is often paired with a LayOut workflow to create technical elevation drawings and construction documents directly from the 3D model.
Installation Note: The plugin is typically delivered as a compressed ZIP file upon purchase. Users must install it via the SketchUp Extension Manager and activate it using account credentials provided by the developer. My work flow - SketchUp Forums
The update is live now on the SketchUcation Plugin Store and the developer’s own Gumroad page.
Compatibility note: Requires SketchUp 2019–2024 (Windows & Mac). Not compatible with SketchUp Free (web) due to Ruby API limitations.
Users of older plugins complained about lag when modeling large skids with 1000+ fittings. The core engine of v217 has been rewritten in C++. Users report a 300% increase in viewport smoothness and virtually zero load time when opening the "Pipe Properties" dialog.
How does this stack up against other SketchUp piping tools (like "SketchUp Pipe" or "Medeek Piping")?
If you work in MEP, process piping, HVAC, or industrial design, you know that manual pipe routing in SketchUp can be tedious. That’s why the release of VBO Piping Pro v2.17 is such exciting news.
This latest update isn’t just a maintenance patch — it brings meaningful workflow improvements to one of the most popular piping extensions for SketchUp.
Initial testing of VBO Piping Pro v217 indicates a performance improvement of approximately 15-20% when generating large pipe networks compared to the previous v210 release. The reduction in file size is achieved through optimized component definitions, preventing the "heavy model" issue common with complex piping arrays in SketchUp.