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NWC and NWF files at a glance

Software

Autodesk Navisworks

Extensions

.nwc (cache), .nwf (links)

NWC content

Geometry and data converted from a source model

NWF content

Links to source files plus review work

Related format

.nwd (published, self-contained)

3D InterOp
Read Write

Reads .nwc and .nwd, not .nwf

  • Building software that needs to read Navisworks files?

    3D InterOp is an SDK that lets your application import Navisworks alongside 30+ CAD and BIM formats.
Format Role Contains geometry

NWC

Cache of a converted source model

Yes

NWF

Coordination project that links source files

No, only references

NWD

Published, self-contained model with review data

Yes

  • Geometry

    Meshes and primitives converted from the source

  • Hierarchy

    Layers, collections, groups and inserts

  • Colors

    Display colors of objects

  • Object properties

    Data carried over from the source model

  • Document information

    Units, version and source system

  • Instances

    Repeated geometry referenced several times

Data Support

.nwd and .nwc files

Read through UConnect, since Release 2024 1.0.1

.nwf files

Not supported

Hierarchy

Every node as a product structure instance

Geometry

Tessellated data, with cylinders and elliptical shapes as B-rep

Colors and document information

Read

BIM properties, textures and PMI

Not imported

  • Spatial doesn’t provide a Navisworks viewer or converter for end users. 3D InterOp is for software developers who want their own application to read Navisworks files.
  • Relying on an outdated cache

    An NWC is regenerated from its source. If the source changed and the cache wasn’t updated, the NWC shows an old version of the model.

  • Moving an NWF without its links

    An NWF only references models. Sent alone, it opens without geometry.

  • Sending NWC or NWF to reviewers

    Reviewers using Navisworks Freedom can’t open NWC or NWF files. Publish an NWD for them.

  • NWD

    Navisworks published models
    NWD
  • Revit

    Autodesk BIM projects and families
    Revit
  • IFC

    Open BIM exchange standard
    IFC
  • DWG

    AutoCAD drawings
    DWG
  • DGN

    MicroStation design files
    DGN
  • Industry · BIM / AEC

    3D InterOp for AEC and BIM applications

    Support for major AEC, BIM and plant design formats, so your application can cover a construction project’s entire lifecycle.
  • Add Navisworks import to your software

    Evaluate 3D InterOp on your own models with support from Spatial’s engineers.

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