Rfa To Dwg Online Convert [better] -

Converting RFA (Revit Family) files to DWG (AutoCAD) files can be a bit tricky, but there are several online tools and methods that can help you achieve this. In this post, we'll explore some of the best online converters and methods to convert RFA to DWG.

What are RFA and DWG files?

Before we dive into the conversion process, let's quickly understand what RFA and DWG files are.

  • RFA (Revit Family) files are a type of file used in Autodesk Revit, a building information modeling (BIM) software. RFA files contain 3D models, families, and other design elements that can be used in Revit projects.
  • DWG (AutoCAD) files, on the other hand, are a type of file used in Autodesk AutoCAD, a computer-aided design (CAD) software. DWG files contain 2D and 3D designs, models, and other graphical data.

Why convert RFA to DWG?

There are several reasons why you might need to convert RFA to DWG:

  • Compatibility: Not all CAD software supports RFA files, but DWG is a widely supported format. By converting RFA to DWG, you can use the models in other CAD software.
  • Collaboration: If you're working with a team that uses AutoCAD, converting RFA to DWG can make it easier to share and collaborate on designs.
  • Legacy data: If you have older RFA files that you want to use in newer CAD software, converting them to DWG can be a good option.

Online Converters

Here are some online converters that can help you convert RFA to DWG:

  • Convertio: Convertio is a popular online file conversion tool that supports over 300 file formats, including RFA and DWG. Simply upload your RFA file, select DWG as the output format, and download the converted file.
  • Zamzar: Zamzar is another online file conversion tool that supports RFA to DWG conversion. Upload your RFA file, select DWG as the output format, and download the converted file.
  • AnyConv: AnyConv is a free online file conversion tool that supports RFA to DWG conversion. Simply upload your RFA file, select DWG as the output format, and download the converted file.

Method 2: Using Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD

If you have access to Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD, you can also convert RFA to DWG using these software. Here's how:

  1. Open the RFA file in Revit: Open the RFA file in Autodesk Revit.
  2. Export to DWG: Go to the "File" menu, select "Export", and choose "DWG" as the export format.
  3. Set the export options: Set the export options as desired, such as the DWG version and the level of detail.
  4. Export the file: Click "Export" to export the RFA file to DWG.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Software

There are also third-party software available that can help you convert RFA to DWG, such as: Rfa To Dwg Online Convert

  • RFA to DWG Converter: This software is specifically designed to convert RFA files to DWG.
  • BIMTrack: BIMTrack is a BIM data management platform that supports RFA to DWG conversion.

Conclusion

Converting RFA to DWG can be a bit tricky, but there are several online tools and methods that can help you achieve this. Whether you use online converters, Autodesk Revit and AutoCAD, or third-party software, make sure to check the compatibility and accuracy of the converted file.

Key Features to Look For

  • ✅ No software installation – works in browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
  • ✅ Batch conversion – upload multiple RFA files at once
  • ✅ View options – choose which view(s) to export (floor plan, front elevation, 3D)
  • ✅ Layer mapping – preserve category-based layering (e.g., A-DOOR, A-GLAZ)
  • ✅ Scale control – set output drawing units (mm, inches, feet)
  • ✅ Privacy – automatic file deletion after 1–24 hours

⚠️ Critical Limitation: RFA is NOT a direct drawing format

  • RFA files are parametric BIM (Building Information Modeling) components used in Autodesk Revit. They contain intelligent data, parameters, and 3D geometry.
  • DWG files are 2D/3D vector drawings without built-in parametric intelligence.

No online converter can fully convert RFA to a usable, layered, editable DWG while preserving all Revit data. Most "converters" actually:

  • Extract only the 3D geometry as a dumb solid/mesh.
  • Lose all family parameters, types, and metadata.
  • Often fail or produce corrupted outputs.

Overview

Converting Revit family files (.rfa) to AutoCAD drawing files (.dwg) is a common but often challenging task for architects, MEP engineers, and contractors. While Revit and AutoCAD are both Autodesk products, their file structures are fundamentally different – one is parametric BIM, the other is CAD. An online RFA to DWG converter bridges this gap, allowing users to extract 2D representations of Revit families for use in traditional CAD workflows without owning a Revit license.

Top Methods to Convert RFA to DWG Online

Despite the challenges, several reliable methods exist to perform this conversion without installing Revit locally. Converting RFA (Revit Family) files to DWG (AutoCAD)

Part 9: Alternatives to Online Conversion

If online conversion fails (or feels unsafe), consider these workflows:

  • Use IFC as a Bridge: Convert RFA to IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) using a free viewer. Then, import IFC into AutoCAD (limited support).
  • Screenshots to Vector: For simple 2D elevation symbol, take a screenshot and use Vectorization software (very low quality, not recommended).
  • Outsource: Hire a freelancer on Fiverr or Upwork with Revit. For $5-$10, they can export the RFA to DWG perfectly.

Why Convert RFA to DWG?

You might need to convert a Revit family to AutoCAD format for several reasons:

  1. Collaboration: Your consultant uses AutoCAD, not Revit.
  2. Detailing: You need to add 2D annotations that are cumbersome in Revit.
  3. Backup: You want a geometric backup of a family in a universal format.
  4. Lack of License: You do not own Revit, but you need the geometry of a specific object (e.g., a specific HVAC unit).

Method 2: Using AutoCAD Architecture

Requires specific AutoCAD vertical.

  1. Use the Revit import tools (limited functionality).
  • Cons: Still requires a paid license; does not work with all RFA files.

Alternatives to Online Conversion

If you consistently find online conversion lacking, consider these alternatives:

| Tool | Type | Best For | Cost | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Revit | Desktop | Full control, layers, colors | $$$ (Paid) | | DWG TrueView | Desktop | Viewing + limited export | Free (Autodesk) | | Blender (with add-ons) | Desktop | Converting to 3D DWG | Free (OSS) | | Any DWF to DWG Converter | Desktop | Batch processing | $ | RFA (Revit Family) files are a type of