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ArchiCAD Insights Tutorial: An IFC file is the best solution for transferring BIM models — but what is it?

Because more firms are embracing BIM (building information modeling) as their preferred design tool, questions are arising about how to work together more efficiently. As the old standards of DWG and PDF exchange are slowly fading away, BIM offers a better exchange of information allowing the exchange of intelligent 3D data. This is obviously more valuable as the data is being used for things such as energy analysis and facilities management. So what is the best way to exchange this data with the people you work with? The new standard is evolving around IFCs.

But what the heck is an IFC? While various BIM applications have their own file formats, there is a universal format that allows these applications to talk to each other. IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is a vendor-neutral file format that handles the information in a BIM model. With IFC, you can use your BIM of choice and have the confidence that your files will be compatible with minimal effort. There is no longer any need to worry about which software your consultants are using.

When you transfer information with an IFC file, walls remain walls, doors remain doors, etc. Material and 2D data can be transferred with this file format as well, but it is really the 3D model and underlying data that makes it the best solution for transferring BIM models. In addition, IFC further extends the data in model elements. For instance, an ArchiCAD wall contains information regarding size and shape, structure and finish. The IFC data can add information such as fire rating, manufacturer, reinforcement, etc. This data becomes part of the BIM model and is transferred through the IFC exchange.



Communication is key to a good translation. Before saving a model as an IFC, it is important to know what data is needed by your colleague and to filter your model accordingly. You can use ArchiCAD's layer controls for this first step; simply turn the appropriate layers on and off with the Layer Manager. It is a good idea to save a Layer Combination so you can return to this model state at any time.


You can also fine-tune the specific portions of structural elements that will be transferred. Partial Structure Display controls what portions of Composites and Profiles are displayed. For instance, when viewing a wall in an architectural model, you want to see the structure and finishes. However, when you send it to your engineer, you want to turn off the finishes to show just the load-bearing core. Doors and windows can also be turned off so that only the openings are shown in a structural model.