How to Sweep in AutoCAD: Step-by-Step Guide

In AutoCAD, use the Sweep command to create a 3D solid or surface by moving a 2D shape along a specified path. First, select the profile, then select the path to sweep along, and AutoCAD generates the 3D object.

Syntax

The Sweep command syntax in AutoCAD involves two main selections:

• Profile: The 2D shape or object you want to sweep.
• Path: The line, polyline, arc, or curve along which the profile will be swept.

After selecting the profile and path, AutoCAD creates a 3D solid or surface by moving the profile along the path.

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Command: SWEEP
Select objects to sweep: (select the 2D profile)
Select sweep path or [Follow/Right/Left/Twist/Twist angle/Base point]: (select the path)

Output

3D solid or surface created by sweeping the profile along the path

Example

This example demonstrates sweeping a circle along a straight line to create a cylinder.

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Command: CIRCLE
Specify center point for circle or [3P/2P/Ttr (tangent)]: 0,0
Specify radius of circle: 5
Command: LINE
Specify first point: 0,0,0
Specify next point: 0,0,20
Command: SWEEP
Select objects to sweep: (select the circle)
Select sweep path or [Follow/Right/Left/Twist/Twist angle/Base point]: (select the line)

Output

A 3D cylinder with radius 5 and height 20 is created

Common Pitfalls

• Not selecting a closed profile: The profile must be a closed 2D shape to create a solid; open shapes create surfaces.
• Path issues: The path must be a single continuous curve; disconnected or multiple paths cause errors.
• Profile and path on different planes: Ensure the profile and path are correctly oriented; otherwise, the sweep may produce unexpected shapes.

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Wrong way:
Command: SWEEP
Select objects to sweep: (select an open polyline)
Select sweep path: (select a disconnected path)
Result: Error or unexpected surface

Right way:
Command: SWEEP
Select objects to sweep: (select a closed circle)
Select sweep path: (select a continuous line)
Result: 3D solid created

Quick Reference

Step	Action
1	Draw a closed 2D profile (e.g., circle, rectangle)
2	Draw a continuous path (line, polyline, arc)
3	Type SWEEP and press Enter
4	Select the profile
5	Select the path
6	Press Enter to create the 3D object

Key Takeaways

Use the SWEEP command to create 3D shapes by moving a 2D profile along a path.

Always select a closed profile for solids and a continuous path for smooth sweeping.

Ensure the profile and path are properly aligned to avoid unexpected shapes.

The sweep path can be a line, polyline, arc, or spline.

Use the Quick Reference steps to perform a sweep efficiently.