VBO Piping Pro V2.1.7 is a specialized extension for Trimble SketchUp designed to automate the creation of complex 3D piping systems from simple 2D or 3D wireframe edges. Developed by
(VBO Solutions), it is a staple tool for MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) designers, architects, and engineers looking to streamline industrial modeling workflows. SketchUp Extension Warehouse Core Functionality
The plugin transforms a network of selected edges into full-scale piping with automatic fitting placement at every vertex. Build Pipes Branch
: Select a group or component of edges, and the tool converts them into pipes based on user-defined settings for size, collection type, and end fittings. Branches Modifier
: A dedicated editing tool that allows users to manually rotate fittings, replace them (e.g., swapping a socket for a valve), or add reduction bushes. Automatic Updating Vbo Piping Pro V2.1.7 Sketchup Plugin
: If you double-click a branch to edit the original source edges, the plugin automatically regenerates the pipe and fittings once the edit is closed. SketchUp Extension Warehouse Key Features 6 Pipe Collections : The Pro version includes specialized libraries for Metal, PVC, HDPE, PPR, Weld, and Electrical BOM Generation : Automatically creates a Bill of Materials for all pipes and fittings in the model using the VBO Schedule 2D/3D Toggle
: Users can rapidly switch between 2D and 3D views by toggling specific layers ( 8_mep_piping2D 8_mep_piping3D
), allowing for cleaner plan views or heavy-render 3D models. Customization
: Supports adding specific names and colors to individual branches for better organizational clarity. SketchUp Extension Warehouse Technical Specifications VBO PIPING PRO - SketchUp Extension Warehouse VBO Piping Pro V2
Click the "Project Settings" icon. Set your global standard to ANSI or DIN. For this tutorial, select 6-inch Schedule 40 Steel as the default line size. Set the "Fitting Gap" to 2mm to account for weld seams.
While not a full Navisworks replacement, V2.1.7 includes a visual clash detector. When a proposed pipe route intersects a solid object (e.g., a beam or tank), the pipe segment highlights in red. This prevents costly on-site rework.
Select the Branch Tee tool. Click on an existing straight pipe segment. The plugin asks for branch angle (default 90°). Enter a branch length of 5 feet. The tee fitting appears instantly, and a new blue path line allows you to continue drawing the branch line.
VBO Piping Pro V2.1.7 is more than just a convenience—it is a necessity for any SketchUp user who regularly models cylindrical networks. By automating repetitive tasks, enforcing real-world piping standards, and preserving parametric editability, the plugin elevates SketchUp into the realm of true mechanical design software. While it cannot replace dedicated plant design suites like AutoCAD Plant 3D or Revit for fully integrated BIM workflows, it offers an accessible, cost-effective, and highly efficient alternative for the vast majority of piping modeling tasks. Version-specific notes for 2
For professionals who need to produce accurate piping layouts quickly without leaving the SketchUp environment, VBO Piping Pro V2.1.7 stands as a proven, reliable, and powerful solution.
Open the plugin’s main dialog (Extensions > Vbo Piping > Project Settings). Define:
"The clash detection in 2.1.7 saved me from routing a 6" steam line through an electrical tray. Worth the update price alone." – Industrial Engineer, Ontario
"I use Vbo for residential fire sprinkler design. The new tri-clamp fittings are perfect for dairy processing layouts I'm testing." – MEP Designer, Wisconsin
To truly appreciate the power of the Vbo Piping Pro V2.1.7 Sketchup Plugin, let’s walk through a practical mini-project: designing a chilled water loop between an Air Handling Unit (AHU) and a chiller.