Tekla Structures

Use Measurement tools to inspect distances, angles, areas, and volumes. Access mass properties (volume, center of mass, moments of inertia) from the Properties panel—assign material density for accurate weight calculation. Use section analysis for cross-sectional properties. Export measurements to spreadsheets for documentation.

Model steel members from standard section profiles (W, HSS, L, C) with proper orientation and end conditions. Apply connections (bolted, welded) from the connection library—automatically generates plates, bolts, and welds. Number parts using Assembly/Part numbering series. Generate shop drawings with automatic dimensioning.

Model cast-in-place concrete by defining pour units (slabs, walls, columns, beams) with proper geometry and material grades. Add construction joints and pour sequences. Embed rebar and post-tensioning within pour elements. Generate formwork drawings showing dimensions, elevations, and embedded item locations.

Place reinforcement using bar shapes from the rebar catalog. Define spacing rules, cover dimensions, and hook types per design code (ACI, Eurocode, BS). Use rebar sets for distributed bars and single bars for special conditions. Generate bending schedules with automatic weight calculations and bar mark numbering.

Enable multi-site collaboration using Tekla Model Sharing—each user works on a local copy with changes synchronized via cloud delta packets. Share models with team members regardless of location. Write out changes regularly and read in others' updates before starting new work to minimize conflicts.

Build Custom Components to automate repetitive modeling: parametric connections, detail assemblies, and structural nodes. Use the Component Editor to define input points, geometry rules, and parameter dialogs. Catalog custom components for team reuse. Update definitions centrally—instances update automatically throughout the model.

Manage project drawings using the Drawing List view: filter by type (GA, fabrication, erection), status (planned, up-to-date, locked), and revision. Track drawing production progress and identify outdated sheets. Use batch operations to freeze, lock, or re-number multiple drawings simultaneously.

Generate assembly drawings automatically showing the main member with all attached parts. Configure templates with appropriate views (front, top, end), dimensioning rules, and bill of materials format. Add weld symbols, bolt callouts, and paint specifications. Issue for workshop fabrication using revision management.

Run Clash Check between structural members to detect physical interferences—set tolerance per member type. Review clashes in the 3D view with highlighting. Use Clash Grouping rules to categorize issues by severity and location. Track clash resolution status through the clash manager for coordination meetings.

Use Model Organizer to create custom groupings of objects by property (phase, material, status, zone). Build hierarchical breakdowns for project management visibility. Use Property Organizer for tabular data views with editing capabilities. Create custom properties for project-specific classification needs.

IronCAD supports 30+ file formats natively: STEP, IGES, Parasolid, ACIS, CATIA V5, NX, SolidWorks, Inventor. Configure import healing (stitch surfaces, remove tiny edges) per format. For export, select appropriate version and units. Use batch translate for library conversions when migrating from other CAD platforms.

Extend Tekla using the .NET Open API for custom tools, data exchange, and workflow automation. Access model objects, drawings, and property data programmatically. Use Tekla Developer portal for documentation and examples. Distribute plugins via Tekla Warehouse or deploy internally as compiled .dll macros.

Export IFC 2x3/4.0 for BIM coordination with architects and MEP engineers. Map Tekla classification to IFC entities using the IFC Export settings. Import IFC models as reference objects for clash checking against the structural model. Use view filters to visualize only relevant IFC categories.

Define weld specifications (type, size, length, standard) on connections. Weld marks display in drawings with proper AWS/ISO symbology. Use weld preparation types (bevel, J-groove, V-groove) from the catalog. Generate welding procedure specifications (WPS) reports. Track total weld lengths per assembly for cost estimation.

Assign model objects to construction phases representing project schedule milestones. Visualize phase-by-phase erection sequences in the 3D model. Generate phase-filtered reports for material procurement and crane pick planning. Use phase overlays in drawings to show what's erected vs. future work.