How to create the reference axis for a 3D tube from the .STP file?

I have a model of a 3D tube which is in .STP format. Now I want to create a axis for that tube, so that I can follow the same path to sweep with  a different contour.

How can I do it? I tried to create the axis using reference axis command, but it didn't worked because the tube is a 3D tube, where as reference axis command works for only single plane!!!

Pls help.

SolidworksImport export