Complex Proxy or Custom Objects in DWG or DXF import files

The first thing to check for when a DWG or DXF reference file import is not visible in Tekla Structures is that the version in which the file was exported is compatible with the version of Tekla Structures being used. See the following article titled Supported AutoCAD versions DWG import. If you have checked that the version of the DWG or DXF reference file is compatible, and there is nothing showing up still, check if the file contains proxy objects or graphics. If it does, they must be removed from the file to make it viewable in Tekla. Instructions in this article titled DWG reference file not visible will show you how to remove proxy graphics. 

Some DWG/DXF drawings, however, contain proxy and/or custom objects that are highly elaborate and the process of exploding may take a very long time. This is mostly true if the file was generated from software that uses object enablers such as AutoCAD Architecture, and AutoCAD Mechanical among others. In this case, exporting the drawing as IGES from the CAD software should allow you to skip the process of attempting to get rid of Proxy objects, and it can be imported into Tekla Structures as you would any other reference file.

Initial Graphics Exchange Specification (IGES) is a neutral file format that is designed to transfer 2D and 3D drawing data between dissimilar CAD systems. Later versions of AutoCAD have the Other Formats export functionality under the file drop down, where IGES is one of the options. See below:

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