Tampermonkey®
by Jan Biniok
Embeds quick visibility controls mapped to native system tags ( 8_mep_piping2D and 8_mep_piping3D ). This permits drafting in lightweight 2D views and converting them to full 3D layouts when preparing final renders or construction documents. Pre-Built Material and Channel Collections
In the world of 3D modeling and BIM (Building Information Modeling), SketchUp has long been celebrated for its intuitive interface and architectural prowess. However, when it comes to MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) engineering—specifically complex piping networks—native SketchUp often falls short. Enter , the latest iteration of a game-changing extension that transforms SketchUp into a full-fledged piping design powerhouse.
At 4:00 AM, she realizes the client changed the pump orientation. Instead of weeping, she selects the entire pipe network, right-clicks, and chooses “VBO → Re-Route from Source.”
The "v217" designation marks a significant update focusing on stability, speed, and compatibility with SketchUp 2021 through 2024. It bridges the gap between conceptual layout and detailed shop drawings. vbo piping pro v217 sketchup plugin
To modify a pipe, double-click the branch to enter the line editing mode. Once you exit, the 3D geometry updates automatically based on your new line path.
When paired with the VBO_Schedule Plugin , it can automatically generate a detailed Bill of Materials (BOM) for all pipes and fittings in the model. Supported Systems and Collections
belongs to the legacy 2.x branch of the software, which laid the groundwork for the more expansive features found in modern versions like VBO Piping Pro 3. Core Functionality Embeds quick visibility controls mapped to native system
One veteran user who has relied on the free version for years provided a detailed troubleshooting guide that speaks volumes about the plugin's stability:
Perhaps the most critical issue for a professional tool is ongoing support and compatibility. Discussions from late 2025 indicate a worrying trend. When a prospective user, "jer1," asked on the SketchUp forum if the plugin worked with newer versions like SketchUp 2026 (having seen a notice for 2024), they received a stark reply suggesting the extension likely hasn't been updated. Worse, when they attempted to contact the developer directly via their website, they received after a week.
| Feature / Aspect | VBO Piping Pro v217 | 3skeng Pipe Tool | Medeek Plumbing | PomPi Pipeline | Profile Builder | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Automated from schematic lines | A full MEP engineering suite | Parametric residential/commercial systems | Lightweight pipe creation & editing | Parametric profile extrusion | | Automation Level | High (auto-fittings from lines) | Very High | Very High | Medium (requires more manual steps) | Low (user defines path/profile) | | Pricing Model | One-time purchase (affordable) | Modular libraries (expensive) | Subscription / One-time purchase (mid-range) | Free or Pay-what-you-want | One-time purchase (mid-range) | | Fitting Library | Good (6 material types) | Excellent (vast, international standards) | Very Good (focus on USA standards) | Basic | N/A (user must create) | | Ease of Use | Moderate (simple logic, buggy UI) | Steep learning curve | Moderate | Easy | High | | BIM Data / BOM | Yes (basic) | Yes (detailed) | Yes | No | Yes (advanced) | | Developer Support | Poor (reports of no response) | Excellent | Excellent | Good (community-driven) | Excellent | | Known Limitations | Buggy in complex models, no 22.5° fitting support | High cost, overkill for simple projects | Still evolving, USA-centric | Manual work required | Not a dedicated piping tool | | Best For | Budget-conscious users doing small to medium MEP projects. | Professional engineering firms needing a full suite. | Residential plumbing designers. | Users wanting a simple, free tool. | Users needing custom profiles (e.g., structural steel). | However, when it comes to MEP (Mechanical, Electrical,
The primary purpose of VBO Piping Pro is to convert edges inside a selected group or component into 3D pipes. Extension Warehouse Automated Pipe Generation
VBO Solutions Piping Pro install help - Extensions - SketchUp Forums
Click the button located at the base of the dialogue box.
Ensure the extension is marked active; look for the independent VBO floating panel or use the native search feature to activate the tool icons. Best Practices for Optimal Performance VBO Piping - SketchUp Extension Warehouse