Navigate to your project directory: Your Project > Isometrics > [Your Iso Style, e.g., Final_ANSI] . Open the file named . Open the Block Editor ( BEDIT ).
| Location | File Type | Role | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | .pcat / .xml | Stores the Skey property for the component. | | IsoConfig.xml | XML | The master lookup table. Maps SKEYs to block names, symbol types, and annotation rules. | | Symbol Block Library | .dwg | The actual 2D geometry (lines, polylines, hatches) representing the component on the isometric. |
Consistency across isometrics is vital for fabrication and site teams. If SKEYs are incorrect, missing, or inconsistently applied, the resulting isometric drawings can show wrong symbols or omit essential graphical cues. That leads to misinterpretation, fabrication errors, rework, and increased cost and schedule risk. Properly managed SKEYs support standardization, reduce manual symbol editing, and enable automated stamping of additional data (e.g., bolt counts, flange class notes).
The relationship between your 3D model and the final PDF isometric is bridged by the . The workflow follows these steps: autocad plant 3d iso symbol skey
Sometimes you don't need to draw a new symbol; you just need to tell Plant 3D that a specific part in your Spec sheet should use an existing SKEY.
Set its to match your XML configuration (e.g., VALVE ).
All isometric blocks are stored in a template drawing hidden within your project files. Navigate to your project directory: Your Project >
You assign an SKEY and an Iso Icon Definition (Type) to a component in the Plant 3D Spec Editor.
When you generate an isometric drawing, Plant 3D does not simply "copy" the 3D model. Instead, it reads the component’s SKEY and references an XML file ( IsoSymbols.dwg or IsoSkeyAcadBlockMap.xml ) to determine which 2D block should replace the 3D solid on the isometric sheet.
Crucial Rule: Ensure your geometry is drawn on layer and uses ByBlock or ByLayer color settings. | Location | File Type | Role | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | |
(Butt Weld Elbow), directing both to the same general "Elbow" block. Autodesk Community, Autodesk Forums, Autodesk Forum SKEY Structure and Naming Conventions
While the 3D model prioritizes physical dimensions, weight, and spatial routing, the isometric drawing prioritizes clear, schematic readability. The SKEY bridges these two worlds. The Anatomy of an SKEY An SKEY is split into two distinct parts:
Keep a spreadsheet documentation of all custom SKEYs used across your company's projects to avoid duplicate assignments.