IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is used to create a standardized format for sharing construction-related information and managing data in architecture and building projects.
It is a file format designed for storing and exchanging BIM (Building Information Modeling) data. IFC enables seamless data exchange between different CAD and BIM systems, helping optimize workflows and improve collaboration among stakeholders throughout the development and management of construction projects.
Learn More: Things You May Not Know About Open BIM
In BIM, all real-world components used in construction—such as walls, columns, windows, doors, and stairs—are modeled in a 3D environment. IFC stores information about all components of this BIM model, making it easier to share data between different software platforms.
Unlike drawing elements in CAD, which only contain information about lines or curves, IFC in BIM combines both 3D geometric representation and property information, such as dimensions, materials, and costs. The ability to transfer data—including property information—through IFC enables the exchange of 3D data for architectural and civil engineering projects.
Learn More: IFC in BIM
Because an IFC model is a 3D dataset, it contains information about geometry such as area, volume, and centroid location.
Data describing the entire building typically includes the following information:
In addition, information about individual architectural elements can also be exchanged between different software platforms. With the ability to include information about equipment and many other elements, IFC can also be used for facility management and maintenance after project completion.
IFC files can be viewed using dedicated viewers even without BIM software such as Autodesk Revit or Archicad. With an IFC viewer, users can easily examine the data structure and geometry contained in the provided model.
Learn more: How does BIM Collaboration Format (BCF) work?
Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) has undergone multiple releases (versions) to continuously improve its capabilities as a BIM data standard.
Over time, IFC has been established as a recognized data standard in the architecture and construction industry. In March 2013, IFC was officially published as the international standard ISO 16739:2013, upgrading it from an industry-specific specification to a globally recognized international standard.
| Version | Date | Description |
|---|---|---|
| IFC Version 1.0 | 01/1997 | Experimental release |
| IFC Version 1.5.1 | 07/1998 | Improved version |
| IFC Version 2.0 | 04/1999 | Marked the beginning of comprehensive testing |
| IFC 2x | 10/2000 | The original foundation of the current IFC2x3 and IFC4 versions |
| IFC 2x2 | 05/2003 | Expanded the data model in equipment and structural domains |
| ISO/PAS 16739 | 10/2005 | Near-ISO specification |
| IFC 2x3 | 12/2005 | Version widely adopted in BIM applications |
| IFC2x4 | Around 04/2008 | Start of international standardization activities (later renamed IFC4) |
| IFC4 Official Release | 03/2013 | - |
| ISO 16739:2013 | 03/2013 | - |
*** Since 2013, the specifications of Industry Foundation Classes (IFC) for the infrastructure sector have continued to be under development.
The IFC compatibility status of commonly used BIM software as of June 5, 2018, is as follows:
| Software | Supported IFC Versions |
|---|---|
| Autodesk Revit |
|
| Archicad |
|
| Vectorworks |
|
| FlowDesigner | IFC2x3 |
| ASCAL | IFC2x3 (Import only) |
| AS TIM | IFC2x3 (Import only) |
In summary, IFC is designed to manage data models throughout the entire lifecycle of a building, from the design stage to construction, and later operation and maintenance.
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