Revit MEP - working with pipes, pipe fittings, and pipe accessories.

[Solved] Error When Attempting to Rotating Multiple Connected Elements in Revit

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There are times when you may have attempted to rotate multiple connected objects and receive an error: “Can’t rotate element into this position.”

Revit error - Can't rotate element into this position.

At this point, beginners and seasoned Revit users both might decide that the only option is to model the elements again. Lucky for you, there is a workaround.

Multiple Pipes, Fittings, and Pipe Accessories

In this example, we will use a group of pipes and valves, which need to be rotated. You will receive an error if you try to rotate these elements while connected, even if you select every element that is connect to your selection even if you group the elements.

Pipes, fittings, and accessories in Revit
Pipes, fittings, and accessories in Revit.

The Fix

To rotate these elements without an error, you  simply use the Mirror – Draw Axis (DM) tool and draw your line at 45 degrees. Remember to uncheck the “Copy” option in the design bar if you do not want to duplicate this group of elements.

Use the Mirror Draw Axis command to Rotate complex connected elements in Revit
Use the “Mirror – Draw Axis” command to Rotate complex connected elements in Revit
Revit - Rotate connected pipes and ducts without disconnecting them
Draw your mirror axis at a 45 degree angle.
Revit - Rotate connected objects by using the Mirror Command
Elements have been successfully rotated and all elements remain connected.

I can’t explain why this solution works, but it does. I thought I would share this technique because it has saved me countless hours of modeling duplicate elements.

Published by Jay Merlan