Steel Detailing | Precast Detailing

Category: Shop Drawing Problems

This one is the shop drawing issues we have encountered.
We have detailed thousands of projects. Some surely had problems. Instead of sweeping under the carpet, we find out the root cause, analyse and counter measure.
Generally counter measure involves raising awareness, asking the particular member to write a summary of the problem, how it happened.
for counter measure, we have a discussion and then decides what to do.
It might involved setting up tutorials, setting up tests, developing new process, or developing APIs

  • Cloning of Assembly Drawings in Tekla

    Cloning of Assembly Drawings in Tekla

    Cloning of Assembly Drawings in Tekla is the Smartest Way to Improve Detailing Efficiency

    In structural steel detailing, efficiency and accuracy are critical to delivering projects on time. As projects grow larger and more complex, detailers must find smarter ways to manage repetitive components and maintain consistency across drawings. One powerful feature that helps achieve this in Tekla Structures is Assembly Drawing Cloning.

    Cloning assembly drawings is a highly effective method that allows detailers to duplicate an existing assembly drawing and apply it to similar assemblies within the model. Instead of creating drawings from scratch every time, detailers can reuse a well-configured drawing layout, saving significant time while maintaining uniform standards across the project.

    In steel structures, many assemblies such as beams, columns, bracing members, and connection components often share similar configurations. When these assemblies are modeled with comparable geometry and detailing requirements, cloning becomes an invaluable tool. By copying an existing drawing and adapting it automatically to another assembly, Tekla helps detailers maintain consistency in dimensions, views, marks, and annotations.

    Another advantage of cloning is its ability to intelligently adapt to small variations between assemblies. Tekla automatically adjusts views, dimensions, and annotations to match the geometry of the new assembly. This allows detailers to reuse drawings even when there are minor differences in member length, hole positions, or connection details

    Please refer to the video below, which elaborates on the cloning process and the working method in Tekla Structures

  • Weld Clearance

    Make sure there is sufficent clearance for welds.

    The cost of not providing weld clearance is significant.

    These type of errors chips away at our credibility

  • Can You Spot the Mistake in This Handrail drawing?

    Can You Spot the Mistake in This Handrail drawing?

    Please review both the 3D and 2D views to identify any potential errors. Additionally, confirm whether any additional views are required for fabrication.

    Sounds fine, right? But here’s the catch—is it actually possible to fabricate with these views? 

    The Hidden Problem

    If we fabricate by 3D view alone, there might be a potential error. In reality, the fabrication needs to be done upside down.

    • Fabrication Assumption: The 3D view is correct, but the plan & elevation view is incorrect.
    • As a result, the fabricator may assume the wrong orientation and fabricate it incorrectly.

    The Right Approach

    We need to provide an additional section view C-C and ensure the 3D view is correctly oriented.

    Actually, in the above drawing shows, the 3D view is placed as the underside view, which may visually appear as downside up.

    Please review correct drawings attached below.

    Always make sure any potential confusion is resolved before starting fabrication.

    So next time you see a similar detail, take a closer look—is it actually can fabricate?

  • How an Experienced Detailer Can Save on Rework

    How an Experienced Detailer Can Save on Rework

    At TEK1, our extensive experience in detailing bridge projects has equipped us with the knowledge and foresight to minimize rework. Recently, we have been detailing two bridges for a leading company in Australia. Here’s a glimpse into how our expertise can prevent costly mistakes and ensure smooth project execution.

    Addressing Cladding Design Challenges

    We received design drawings for the cladding around the bridges, one of which showed cladding with only one horizontal split at the bottom location, while the rest was a single piece. However, to facilitate easier handling and reduce the risk of damage, we identified the need for two horizontal splits instead of one.

    Why Split the Cladding?

    1. Handling Issues: Large, single-piece cladding can be difficult to manage in the shop.
    2. Material Sensitivity: The cladding is made from a small aluminum sheet with perforations, making it prone to damage.

    When modeling this type of cladding, it is crucial to consider the fabricator’s handling challenges and potential issues they might face.

    TEK1’s Proactive Approach

    Given our extensive experience with similar bridge projects, we anticipated these issues. TEK1 arranged for our detailers to visit the factory directly, allowing them to understand firsthand the difficulties fabricators might encounter.

    For this particular bridge job, TEK1 proactively raised queries about the maximum length of the cladding before starting the project. By addressing potential issues early on, we can significantly reduce the risk of rework.

    The Benefits of Experienced Detailing

    By leveraging our experience and proactive approach, TEK1 ensures:

    1. Enhanced Efficiency: By identifying and solving potential issues early, we streamline the fabrication process.
    2.Cost Savings: Minimizing rework leads to significant cost savings for our clients.
    3.Quality Assurance: Ensuring that the design is practical and feasible reduces the likelihood of damage and maintains high-quality standards.


    At TEK1, our goal is to deliver projects that not only meet client requirements but also stand the test of time. By understanding and addressing fabrication challenges, we ensure that our detailing work is both precise and practical, ultimately saving time and resources for everyone involved.

    Stay tuned for more insights and updates on how TEK1 continues to lead the way in bridge detailing and beyond.

  • Simplifying Erection with Steel Columns at 14 Ridgeway AV Kew

    Simplifying Erection with Steel Columns at 14 Ridgeway AV Kew

    Author: RAJ (Arokiaraj Arputharaj)

    Introduction

    At TEK1, we recently took on an exciting project at 14 Ridgeway AV Kew. This project is a testament to our commitment to delivering innovative solutions in steel detailing. During the design phase, we identified a potential erection issue involving the use of timber columns to support steel beams. Our proactive approach led us to recommend a change that would streamline the construction process and enhance the overall efficiency of the project.

    Project Overview

    The 14 Ridgeway AV Kew project involves the construction of a structure where two steel beams are supported by timber columns. This design posed a significant challenge: coordinating the efforts of two different types of erectors—one for steel and another for timber. This not only complicates the erection process but also introduces potential delays and additional costs.

    Identifying the Issue

    As steel detailers, our primary goal is to ensure that every aspect of the project is executed smoothly. We quickly realized that having two different erectors on-site to handle the steel beams and timber columns would create unnecessary complications. The need for precise coordination between the steel and timber erectors could lead to scheduling conflicts, increased labor costs, and potential delays in the project timeline.

    Proposed Solution: Steel Columns

    To mitigate these issues, we suggested replacing the timber columns with steel columns. This change offers several advantages:

    1. Streamlined Erection Process: With steel columns, a single erector can handle both the beams and the columns, simplifying coordination and reducing the risk of delays.
    2. Enhanced Structural Integrity: Steel columns provide better support for the steel beams, ensuring a more robust and reliable structure.
    3. Cost-Effective: By minimizing the need for multiple erectors, we can reduce labor costs and improve overall project efficiency.
    4. Consistency in Material: Using steel for both the beams and columns ensures uniformity in the materials, which can lead to better performance and durability over time.

    Client Approval and Implementation

    We presented our recommendation to the client, highlighting the benefits of using steel columns instead of timber. The client appreciated our foresight and agreed to the change. This decision not only simplified the erection process but also contributed to a more streamlined and cost-effective construction phase.

    Conclusion

    At 14 Ridgeway AV Kew, our proactive approach and attention to detail allowed us to foresee potential issues and implement effective solutions. By suggesting the use of steel columns, we ensured a smoother erection process and enhanced the overall quality of the project. At TEK1, we are dedicated to delivering excellence in steel detailing and construction, always putting our clients’ best interests at the forefront of our projects.

    Stay tuned for more updates on our innovative solutions and project successes!

  • How We are helping our Client Save $100,000s on the Iconic “EMU IN THE SKY” Project

    How We are helping our Client Save $100,000s on the Iconic “EMU IN THE SKY” Project

    How we saved our 30% (i.e. hundreds of thousands of dollars) in Costs on the “Emu In the Sky” Project

    Recently, we have been detailing one of Australia’s most iconic projects, the “EMU IN THE SKY.” The structure of this project is a 30m globe,
    and as part of the steel detailing, numerous connections are involved.

    How did we do it?

    TEK1 has proposed

    • several solutions for the connections required.
    • proposed as easy way to acheive more accurate fabrication
    • Reduce Fabrication Time
    • and ultimately saved the client in the order of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

    Hexagon Joint Connections:

    The Problem

    • This design contains numbers of Hexagon join involved & it required six cruciform connections per hexagon joint. The weight of one Cruciform joint is 60-70kg approx

    The Solution

    • The TEK1 Team (Ramakrishnan)proposed an alternative solution that reduced the number of cruciform connections required for a hexagon joint..
    • By implementing our proposal, we eliminate two cruciform connection per hexagon joint, resulting in substantial savings N-numbers of connections in terms of fabrication.
    • This involves saving of Material cost & Fabrication cost.
    • Our client was very pleased to see these cost-saving proposals coming from the steel detailer.
    • Please refer to the following snaps which showing the detailed info about the proposal

    Cruciform Connection Accuracy

    The Problem

    Another example involves the cruciform design connection, where the initial design called for three 20mm thick plates to be welded
    together to form the joint. This connection demands high accuracy in fabrication, as all plates must be perfectly aligned at 90º to avoid
    significant erection issues. During welding, there is a possibility of distortion, making it difficult to maintain the desired shape.

    This is risky for the client – if they get it wrong they will lose: $abc and lose xyz months

    The Solution

    To address these challenges, TEK1 proposed a notched cruciform connection. Instead of three plates, we use only two plates, each with a
    notch. By interlocking the notched plates, we can avoid steel distortion and achieve the desired design shape more easily. This approach
    not only improves fabrication accuracy but also simplifies the assembly process.

    Again our client was very pleased to see these cost-saving proposals coming from the steel detailer & we implemented this in our current model.

    If you’re interested in having TEK1 manage your project, please send a quote request to our principal, Koshy, at koshy@tek1.com.au, and specify that you want Ramakrishnan to manage your project. We look forward to bringing our expertise to your next venture.