3DARRAY command in AutoCAD : Creates nonassociative, 3D rectangular or polar arrays

If you work in AutoCAD and need to create repeated objects in three dimensions, the 3darray command is a fast way to produce rectangular or polar 3D arrays of copies. This guide explains what the command does, shows step‑by‑step usage with examples, lists alternatives, covers common problems and fixes, and gives practical tips so you can use 3darray reliably.

What is the 3DARRAY command?

The 3darray command in AutoCAD creates nonassociative 3D arrays — either rectangular (X, Y, Z) or polar (around an axis/center) — by making copies of selected objects and placing them in a 3D grid or circular pattern. “Nonassociative” means the copies are independent of the original: editing the source object does not update the copies.

Common uses:

• Lining up repeated components in 3D (bolts, structural members, modules).
• Creating stacked rows of objects at specified levels.
• Generating circular arrangements of objects around a center and at multiple heights.

Quick overview (command access and shortcut)

• Type 3darray at the command line and press Enter.
• In the ribbon: Home > Modify > Array (older/3D toolsets may show 3darray).
• If your AutoCAD version uses the modern ARRAY command (associative), use ARRAY for editable arrays. 3darray is the legacy nonassociative 3D array in some releases.

How to use 3darray — Step by step

Below are clear steps for both Rectangular and Polar 3D arrays. Replace example numbers with your values.

Common first steps

1. Select the object(s) you want to array (solids, surfaces, blocks, etc.). Ensure they are selectable and not on a locked or frozen layer.
2. Start the command: type 3darray and press Enter.

Rectangular 3D array (grid: columns × rows × levels)

1. After starting 3darray, choose the Rectangular option (if prompted).
2. Specify the number of items in each direction:
   • Columns (X)
   • Rows (Y)
   • Levels (Z)
     Example: 4 columns × 3 rows × 2 levels → 4 × 3 × 2.
3. Specify spacing or total extent for each direction:
   • You will typically enter the distance between items along X, Y, and Z (e.g., 100 mm apart).
   • Some prompts allow choosing between Spacing (distance) and Total (overall distance), so pick the one needed.
4. Accept the preview and press Enter to create the array.

Example: To create 4 wide, 3 deep and 2 high copies spaced 150 mm apart in X and Y and 300 mm between levels:

• Columns = 4, Rows = 3, Levels = 2
• Spacing X = 150, Spacing Y = 150, Spacing Z = 300

Polar 3D array (circular around a center, with levels)

1. Start 3darray and choose Polar option.
2. Specify center point of rotation (pick a point or enter coordinates).
3. Enter the number of items around the circle.
4. Specify the angle to fill (360° for full circle, less for arcs).
5. For 3D polar arrays, you may also be prompted for number of levels (Z direction) and spacing between levels.
6. Accept preview and press Enter.

Example: 12 items around a full circle with 3 stacked levels 200 mm apart:

• Items = 12, Angle = 360
• Levels = 3, Spacing Z = 200

Practical examples with visuals (conceptual)

• Example A (Rectangular): Place a 1-meter cube into a 3 × 2 × 4 array with 2m spacing → positions form a 3 × 2 grid horizontally and 4 stacked levels.
• Example B (Polar): Place a lamp model into a circle of 8 around a central column, with two vertical tiers → a double-ring of lamps at two heights.

(When working in AutoCAD, use the preview the command provides to verify positions before finalizing.)

Differences vs. ARRAY (modern associative array)

• 3darray: creates nonassociative copies. You cannot edit the array as a single object after creation.
• ARRAY / Associative array: modern command that supports associative editing (change counts, spacing, angle, or modify a single source and propagate changes). Use ARRAY if you need editability.
• Many newer AutoCAD versions favor ARRAY (with Path, Polar, Rectangular options) — check your version and workflow to decide.

Why 3darray might not work (common causes) and how to fix them

• Objects are on a locked or frozen layer:

  • Fix: Unlock or thaw the layer, then try again.

• Selection set includes objects that cannot be arrayed (annotative text, certain 2D-only items, or special entities):

  • Fix: Select only the compatible objects (solids, surfaces, blocks). Convert or explode unsupported entities if appropriate.

• Wrong UCS (User Coordinate system) or view orientation:

  • Fix: Set the UCS so the X, Y, Z directions align with the intended array directions (use WORLD or create a rotated UCS).

• Using AutoCAD LT or a version without 3D features:

  • Fix: Confirm your AutoCAD edition supports 3D array operations. If not, use alternative methods (COPY, blocks, or ARRAY if supported).

• The 3darray command is deprecated or replaced in your version:

  • Fix: Use the modern ARRAY command (associative) which provides equivalent Rectangular and Polar options and may be the recommended tool.

• Too many items cause performance issues or long processing:

  • Fix: Reduce count, create arrays in sections, or use simplified geometry (blocks) to reduce memory load.

• Command prompts confusing (Spacing vs Total):

  • Fix: Read the prompt carefully and try both options (enter spacing or overall dimension) depending on how you want layout behavior.

Alternatives and workarounds

• Use the modern ARRAY command for associative arrays you can edit later.
• Use COPY with the Multiple option to place repetitions where exact spacing or irregular placement is required.
• Use BLOCK insertion and then array the block for lighter geometry and easier management.
• For complex paths, use ARRAYPATH (or ARRAY with Path option) to distribute copies along a curve. In newer AutoCAD, Path is an ARRAY option.
• Use scripts or dynamic blocks if you need parameterized modular repeats.

Tips for efficient 3D arrays

• Convert repeated parts to blocks before arraying to reduce file size and improve performance.
• Use preview before committing to ensure orientation and spacing are correct.
• If you need later changes, prefer associative ARRAY so you can edit counts and spacing without recreating geometry.
• Keep track of UCS and work in a coordinate system that makes specifying spacing easy.
• For physical fabrication or BIM workflows, ensure units and spacing match your model requirements.

FAQ

What is the main difference between 3darray and ARRAY?

3darray creates nonassociative copies; ARRAY (modern command) produces associative arrays that can be edited as a group after creation.

Can I convert a 3darray result into an associative array later?

No direct conversion exists. To get an associative array, recreate the pattern using the ARRAY command (or undo and use ARRAY instead).

Will 3darray work on blocks and groups?

Yes — blocks typically work well and are recommended for performance. Some grouped or special entities may require ungrouping or exploding first.

Why are my arrayed objects rotated or oriented incorrectly?

Check the UCS and the selection base point. The array uses the current coordinate orientation — set UCS so X/Y/Z align with your intended directions.

How do I reduce file size when creating large arrays?

Use blocks for repeated geometry, reduce geometry detail, or create arrays procedurally in smaller sections.

Is 3darray available in AutoCAD LT?

AutoCAD LT has limited 3D functionality. Verify your LT features — if 3darray is unavailable, use blocks and COPY or upgrade to full AutoCAD for full 3D array tools.

My 3darray command doesn’t appear — what should I check?

Ensure your AutoCAD version supports 3darray and that 3D toolsets are enabled. Try the modern ARRAY command if 3darray is missing.