For users who find the limitations of VBO Piping Pro v2.1.7 to be a deal-breaker, there are alternatives within the SketchUp ecosystem. is a powerful, professional tool for MEP design, though it is often considered "too much, having to buy all the different libraries". Medeek HVAC is another alternative specifically for HVAC design, though it is noted to still be in an alpha stage of development.
Smoother generation along complex, multi-axis curves without geometry twisting.
If you edit the source edges (by double-clicking the group), the 3D pipe updates automatically upon exiting the group . Technical Considerations VBO pipe plugin - Extensions - SketchUp Community vbo piping pro v217 sketchup plugin new
VBO Piping Pro is a professional-grade script designed to automate the creation of pipes and fittings. Instead of manually modeling every elbow and T-junction, you simply select your group of edges, and the plugin automatically populates the paths with pipes and the correct fittings at every vertex. New in v2.1.7
From pressure piping and drain/waste/vent (DWV) systems to electrical conduit and HVAC ductwork, VBO Piping Pro supports a wide range of applications. For users who find the limitations of VBO Piping Pro v2
SketchUp has long been a favorite for architects and designers, but when it comes to complex MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) tasks, the native tools often fall short. That is where VBO Piping Pro comes in. With the release of version 2.1.7, this plugin has solidified its place as the industry standard for piping design within SketchUp.
The routing logic has been refined to minimize manual corrections. Instead of manually modeling every elbow and T-junction,
Managing massive MEP layouts is simplified through an integrated input dashboard. The "Branches Modifier" tool allows you to click on any node to manually rotate or hot-swap a fitting. You can also introduce reduction bushes for varying pipe widths, add custom labels, and apply distinct display colors to isolate specific mechanical loops. 3. Seamless 2D to 3D Toggling
The offers numerous advantages for professionals: