Why IFC Settings Are Important

Correct IFC settings help:

• Improve interoperability between BIM software

• Prevent data loss

• Maintain model accuracy

• Ensure proper collaboration

• Support BIM standards like ISO 19650

Common IFC Settings in BIM Software

1. IFC Version Selection

Different IFC versions support different features.

IFC VersionPurposeIFC2x3Widely used older standardIFC4Improved geometry and data supportIFC4.3Infrastructure and civil projects

Recommended

• Use IFC4 for modern BIM workflows.

• Use IFC2x3 only if required by project standards.

2. Export Settings

These settings define what information is included in the IFC file.

Typical Export Options

• Export geometry

• Export property sets

• Export quantities

• Export materials

• Export schedules

• Export linked files

Best Practice

Always enable:

• Property Sets (Psets)

• Base Quantities

• Element Properties

3. Coordinate Settings

Correct coordinates ensure proper model positioning.

Common Coordinate Options

SettingPurposeShared CoordinatesAligns models between disciplinesProject Base PointDefines local project originSurvey PointReal-world geographic location

Important

Incorrect coordinates may cause:

• Misaligned models

• Clash detection issues

• Positioning errors

4. Geometry Settings

Geometry settings control how building elements are exported.

Options Include

• Tessellation quality

• Solid geometry export

• Extrusion handling

• Surface smoothing

Recommended

Use high-quality geometry only when necessary because larger files may slow performance.

5. Property Set (Pset) Mapping

Psets store metadata about BIM objects.

Examples:

• Material data

• Fire ratings

• Manufacturer details

• Asset information

Best Practice

Use standardized property sets for consistency.

6. IFC Classification Settings

Classification systems organize BIM elements properly.

Popular systems include:

• OmniClass

• UniClass

• MasterFormat

These help maintain standardized BIM data structures.

7. Level of Detail / Development Settings

IFC export settings may include:

• LOD 100–500 filtering

• Simplified geometry options

• Construction detail levels

Recommendation

Match IFC detail level to project requirements.

8. Space and Room Export Settings

These settings manage:

• Room boundaries

• Areas

• Space naming

• Facility management data

Essential for:

• Energy analysis

• Facility operations

• COBie workflows

9. File Splitting and Model Segmentation

Large BIM models may be split into:

• Architecture

• Structure

• MEP

• Site models

This improves performance and coordination.

10. IFC Import Settings

When importing IFC files, software may allow:

• Automatic element mapping

• Material conversion

• Layer mapping

• Object classification recognition

Proper import settings reduce translation errors.

IFC Settings in Popular BIM Software

SoftwareIFC SupportAutodesk RevitIFC export/import customizationArchiCADStrong open BIM supportTekla StructuresDetailed structural IFC workflowsSolibriIFC model checkingNavisworksIFC coordination and clash detection

Best Practices for IFC Settings

Use Standardized Templates

Create company IFC templates for consistency.

Test Before Final Export

Always validate IFC models before sharing.

Use IFC4 When Possible

Provides better interoperability and modern support.

Maintain Clean Model Data

Remove unnecessary objects and duplicate elements.

Coordinate Across Teams

Ensure all disciplines use aligned settings.

Common IFC Problems

ProblemCauseMissing ObjectsIncorrect export settingsGeometry ErrorsUnsupported geometry typesMisaligned ModelsCoordinate issuesLost DataImproper property mappingLarge File SizesExcessive detail levels