1
New Poll Available
 
HOME/USEFUL GUIDES/GUIDE TO 3D FILE FORMATS/RFT FILE FORMAT EXPLAINED
RFT Icon

RFT File Format Explained

The Revit Family Template (RFT) format is a family template file used within Autodesk Revit to start the creation of parametric 3D components. These files serve as the starting point for building Revit Families (RFA), ensuring consistency in data structure and hosting behavior. They are family template files used to create new families, and in typical Revit workflows the result is saved as an RFA file.

IconExtensionOriginal SoftwareYearPrimary IndustryGeometryUV MapsTexturesPBRAnimationRiggingOpen Use
RFT Icon.RFTRevit2000Architecture
Engineering
Construction		Parametric✔✔✔–––

RFT File Format Details

What It Stores

RFT files can contain predefined parameters, reference planes, and category-specific settings. They can include hosting conditions, visibility settings, reference geometry, and parameters that drive family behavior.

Primary Use Cases

  • Standardizing the creation of custom architectural components.
  • Establishing hosting behaviors for MEP fixtures and equipment.
  • Defining parametric constraints for furniture and cabinetry.
  • Creating consistent title blocks and annotation symbols.

Strengths

  • Ensures specific Revit categories are correctly assigned from the start.
  • Provides a reference- and constraint-based structure to support parametric behavior.
  • Streamlines BIM workflows by pre-loading commonly used parameters and settings.

Limitations

  • Proprietary format restricted almost exclusively to the Autodesk ecosystem.
  • In normal Revit workflows, families are saved as RFA files rather than back into the original RFT template.

Common Software Support

Primarily supported by Autodesk Revit. Some third-party BIM tools may use Revit templates in automated workflows, depending on the product.

Close WindowRenderHub Login

Show Password

Reset password
Create Account