How Do I Round a Circle in AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is a powerful software that allows you to create precise and detailed 2D and 3D designs. One common task in AutoCAD is rounding circles. Rounding a circle can be useful when you want to add a smooth edge to your design or when you need to specify a specific radius for manufacturing purposes.

Using the FILLET Command

The easiest way to round a circle in AutoCAD is by using the FILLET command. The FILLET command allows you to create a rounded corner between two objects, such as lines, arcs, or circles.

To round a circle using the FILLET command, follow these steps:

  1. Select the FILLET command from the Modify panel or type ‘FILLET’ in the command line and press Enter.
  2. Specify the radius of the fillet by typing ‘R’ in the command line followed by the desired radius value and pressing Enter.
  3. Select one of the edges of the circle that you want to round. This can be done by clicking on the edge with your mouse or by typing ‘E’ in the command line and selecting one of the available options.
  4. Repeat step 3 for any additional edges you want to round.
  5. Press Enter when you are done selecting edges.

Note: The FILLET command can also be used to round other objects such as lines and arcs. Simply select two objects instead of just one edge of a circle.

An Alternative Method: Trimming with an Auxiliary Circle

If you prefer not to use the FILLET command, another method for rounding a circle involves trimming it using an auxiliary circle.

To round a circle using this method, follow these steps:

  1. Draw an auxiliary circle with the desired radius and position it so that it intersects the original circle at the points where you want to round the edges.
  2. Select the TRIM command from the Modify panel or type ‘TRIM’ in the command line and press Enter.
  3. Select the original circle as the cutting object by clicking on it with your mouse.
  4. Select the parts of the original circle that you want to remove by clicking on them with your mouse. These are typically the sections outside of the auxiliary circle.
  5. Press Enter when you are done selecting parts of the original circle.

Note: The TRIM command can be used to remove parts of other objects as well, not just circles. Simply select different objects as cutting objects instead of a circle.

In Conclusion

Rounding a circle in AutoCAD is a simple task that can be achieved using either the FILLET command or by trimming it with an auxiliary circle. Both methods provide different ways to achieve a desired rounded edge, giving you flexibility in your designs. Whether you prefer one method over the other or use them interchangeably, mastering these techniques will allow you to add smooth and precise curves to your AutoCAD drawings.