Recently, we were awarded a project to detail a curved section on the bridge for a reputed organization in Australia. The geometry involved presented some unique challenges.
From the elevation, the structure followed a non-linear zig-zag curvature, creating a dynamic and aesthetically driven form.
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In this blog, we will look at how to create and share new materials in a Tekla model. By default, Tekla comes with a predefined list of materials stored in the system drive (C drive). However, in many projects, we often need to add custom materials based on project requirements. To add a new material, go to the Menu at the top left corner, navigate to Catalogs, and then open the Material Catalog. From there, select an existing material, right click & selct “Add Grade,” rename it as required, and assign the appropriate density. Once saved, the new material will be available in the model.
When sharing the model, especially using the db1 file to reduce file size, the newly added materials may not be available to the recipient. This is because custom materials are stored separately. To ensure the other user can access the same materials, you need to share the file named “matdb.bin” from the model folder. This file is created only when new materials are added and must be included along with the db1 file.
Alternatively, there is another method to share materials. In the Material Catalog, you can use the “Export” option available at the bottom to save the material data as a separate file. This file can then be shared, and the recipient can import it into their Material Catalog to access the same materials.
Watch the video below for a step-by-step demonstration of this process.
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
This blog provides an overview of the modelling and detailing work completed for the Lathe place project at Unanderra.
This industrial development has 3 block comprising of 12 units. Each block has precast panels all around with steel roof & awnings.
For the 27 Scott Street project, the client requested that the façade posts be installed with sufficient clearance so that the fixing anchors do not clash with the PT cable lines.
We carefully followed the client’s requirements and coordinated the design to ensure that the anchors clear the PT cable lines. The steel was successfully erected without any issues.
We would like to thank the client for giving us the opportunity to be part of this project.
hess Engineering.
Detailed expertly by Tek1 with the following scope
Tek1’s A team was proud to be involved.
We have completed this project with NIL errors for detailing side. It went extremely well with Chess too.
Chess too hadextremely low stuff ups (as reported) You can see the trimble connect model of the entire proejct at our blog post
In Australian steel detailing, understanding roof and purlin specifications is essential for delivering precise and efficient designs. In this blog, I’ll share an experience highlighting the significance of addressing roof slope issues during detailing.
The Issue
In a structural drawing, the purlins were shown running north-south, which suggested that the roof slope would be east-west (since purlins are always perpendicular to the roof slope). However, when we reviewed the architectural drawings, the roof slope was indicated as running north-south—a direct contradiction.
The Resolution
We raised the issue with the client, who confirmed that the architectural drawings superseded the structural ones. Following this clarification, updated drawings were issued, with the roof slope correctly aligned in the east-west direction.
Key Takeaways
Roof and purlin alignment might seem straightforward, but even small errors can have significant implications. Attention to detail and proactive communication are key to successful detailing.
