How Tekla Structures Helps With Steel Detailing
Accurate 3D Modeling From the Start
At the core of Tekla Structures is a true 3D model. Every beam, column, plate, bolt, weld, and cut is modeled exactly as it will be built. This isn’t a visual approximation. The model contains real dimensions and real connections.
For steel detailers, this means fewer assumptions. You’re not guessing how members come together. You can see it, measure it, and check it before anything reaches the shop floor.
Because everything lives in one model, changes update automatically. If a beam size changes, connected plates and bolts can update with it. That saves hours of manual rework and reduces the risk of inconsistencies in drawings.
Built for Steel Connections
Tekla Structures comes with a large library of predefined steel connections. These include base plates, moment connections, bracing connections, end plates, and many others. Detailers can use these as-is or customize them to meet project or fabricator standards.
This is a big advantage over general CAD tools. Instead of drawing each plate and bolt from scratch, you apply a connection and let Tekla handle the geometry. You still stay in control, but the repetitive work is reduced.
For complex joints, being able to rotate the model and inspect every angle helps catch issues early. That’s much harder to do in 2D.
Clash Detection Before Fabrication
One of the most valuable benefits of Tekla Structures is clash detection. Because the model is highly detailed, clashes between steel members, bolts, plates, or other trades can be identified early.
Finding clashes during detailing is far cheaper than discovering them during fabrication or erection. For example, you can catch:
Bolts clashing with stiffeners
Beams interfering with bracing
Connections conflicting with architectural or MEP elements
This leads to cleaner drawings, fewer RFIs, and smoother site work.
Fabrication-Ready Drawings
Tekla Structures generates shop drawings directly from the model. These drawings are consistent because they all come from the same source. If the model is correct, the drawings are correct.
Detailers can produce:
Assembly drawings
Single part drawings
Bolt lists
Material lists
When revisions happen, drawings update automatically. You don’t need to track changes across dozens of files. This reduces errors and saves time, especially on fast-track projects.
Accurate Material Takeoffs and Reports
Because Tekla Structures knows exactly what’s in the model, it can produce accurate material quantities. Weight, length, bolt counts, and plate sizes are all calculated automatically.
This helps fabricators with pricing, procurement, and scheduling. It also helps reduce waste. When quantities are accurate, steel orders are more precise.
For large projects, this level of data control makes a real difference.
Better Collaboration Across Teams
Tekla Structures supports collaboration between detailers, engineers, fabricators, and contractors. Models can be shared, reviewed, and combined with other discipline models.
This makes coordination easier. Engineers can review connections. Fabricators can check buildability. Contractors can understand erection sequences. Everyone is working from the same source of truth instead of disconnected drawings.
Supports Complex and Large-Scale Projects
Tekla Structures is particularly strong on complex steel structures. This includes industrial plants, stadiums, high-rise buildings, and bridges. These projects often involve thousands of parts and tight tolerances.
The software is designed to handle large models without breaking them into separate files. That helps maintain consistency and reduces coordination issues.
Fewer Errors, More Confidence
At the end of the day, steel detailing is about confidence. Confidence that parts will fit. Confidence that drawings are correct. Confidence that fabrication and erection will go smoothly.
Tekla Structures supports that confidence by keeping everything connected. The model, the drawings, and the data all come from the same place. When something changes, everything updates together.
Final Thoughts
Tekla Structures helps steel detailers work faster, more accurately, and with fewer surprises. Its detailed 3D modeling, strong connection tools, clash detection, and fabrication-ready output make it well suited for modern steel projects.
For teams dealing with tight deadlines, complex geometry, or high fabrication demands, Tekla Structures isn’t just helpful. It’s often essential.