Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
Steel Detailing
Modeling
Training Manual
Product version 16.0
February 2010
Introduction 9
LESSON 1 13
1 Starting Tekla Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2 Creating a new model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3 Opening a model . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
3.1 Model created in a previous version ..................................................................................................... 17
4 Saving a model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
4.1 Saving a model with a different name................................................................................................... 18
5 Moving around in the view . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
5.1 Zooming................................................................................................................................................ 19
5.2 Panning................................................................................................................................................. 19
5.3 Rotating ................................................................................................................................................ 19
6 Views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
6.1 View properties ..................................................................................................................................... 19
6.2 Display .................................................................................................................................................. 21
6.3 Creating a basic view............................................................................................................................ 23
6.4 Creating a top view ............................................................................................................................... 23
6.5 Creating a grid view using two points ................................................................................................... 24
6.6 Creating a view using three points........................................................................................................ 25
6.7 Opening, closing, and deleting named views ....................................................................................... 26
6.8 Rollover highlight .................................................................................................................................. 27
6.9 Changing part representation in model views....................................................................................... 27
7 Common buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
LESSON 2 31
8 Grids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
8.1 Creating grids ....................................................................................................................................... 32
8.2 Creating a second grid.......................................................................................................................... 33
8.3 Creating a grid on a shifted work plane ................................................................................................ 34
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 1
8.4 Adding a grid line to an existing grid ..................................................................................................... 34
8.5 Modifying grid lines ............................................................................................................................... 35
9 Work area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
10 Creating plane views along grid lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
LESSON 3 39
11 Snapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
11.1 Snap switches....................................................................................................................................... 40
11.2 Dimensions in snapping ........................................................................................................................ 41
11.3 Orthogonal snapping............................................................................................................................. 42
12 Mini Toolbar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
12.1 Mini Toolbar examples.......................................................................................................................... 42
12.2 Customizing Mini Toolbar...................................................................................................................... 44
13 Part properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
13.1 Attributes tab......................................................................................................................................... 46
13.2 Position tab ........................................................................................................................................... 47
13.3 Modifying part properties....................................................................................................................... 48
14 Steel parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
14.1 Creating steel columns.......................................................................................................................... 49
14.2 Creating steel beams ............................................................................................................................ 49
14.3 Creating curved steel beams ................................................................................................................ 50
14.4 Creating steel polybeams...................................................................................................................... 50
14.5 Creating orthogonal steel beams .......................................................................................................... 51
14.6 Creating steel twin profiles.................................................................................................................... 51
14.7 Creating steel contour plates ................................................................................................................ 51
15 Part modifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
15.1 Moving start and end points.................................................................................................................. 53
Extending and shortening parts........................................................................................................ 55
15.2 Bending parts........................................................................................................................................ 55
15.3 Tubular sections.................................................................................................................................... 56
16 Corner chamfers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
16.1 Chamfering example............................................................................................................................. 58
17 Selection switches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
17.1 Selection filters...................................................................................................................................... 61
Selection filter example .................................................................................................................... 61
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17.2 Selection examples ............................................................................................................................... 62
LESSON 4 67
18 Copying and moving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
18.1 Copying ................................................................................................................................................. 69
18.2 Copying linearly ..................................................................................................................................... 70
18.3 Copying and rotating ............................................................................................................................. 70
18.4 Copying and mirroring ........................................................................................................................... 71
18.5 Copying to another plane ...................................................................................................................... 72
18.6 Copying to another object...................................................................................................................... 73
18.7 Copying from another model ................................................................................................................. 73
18.8 Moving ................................................................................................................................................... 74
18.9 Moving linearly....................................................................................................................................... 75
18.10 Moving and rotating ............................................................................................................................... 76
18.11 Moving and mirroring............................................................................................................................. 76
18.12 Moving to another plane ........................................................................................................................ 77
18.13 Moving to another object ....................................................................................................................... 77
19 Detailing profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
19.1 Fit part end ............................................................................................................................................ 77
19.2 Cut part with line.................................................................................................................................... 78
19.3 Cut part with another part ...................................................................................................................... 79
Solid error ......................................................................................................................................... 79
19.4 Cut part with a polygon.......................................................................................................................... 80
19.5 Detailing multiple profiles....................................................................................................................... 81
19.6 Surface treatment .................................................................................................................................. 81
Adding surface treatment to selected area ....................................................................................... 81
20 Welds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
20.1 Creating welds between parts ............................................................................................................... 82
21 Bolts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
21.1 Bolt properties ....................................................................................................................................... 83
Holes................................................................................................................................................. 85
21.2 Creating a bolt group ............................................................................................................................. 86
21.3 Modifying bolt groups ............................................................................................................................ 87
21.4 Inserting a divided bolt group ................................................................................................................ 87
21.5 Creating slotted holes............................................................................................................................ 87
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22 Splitting and combining parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
22.1 Splitting parts ........................................................................................................................................ 88
22.2 Combining parts.................................................................................................................................... 89
23 Points. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
23.1 Creating points along a line................................................................................................................... 90
24 Assemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
24.1 Creating an assembly ........................................................................................................................... 91
24.2 Creating a subassembly........................................................................................................................ 91
24.3 Adding objects to assemblies................................................................................................................ 91
24.4 Removing objects from assemblies ...................................................................................................... 92
24.5 Highlighting objects in an assembly...................................................................................................... 92
24.6 Assembly hierarchy............................................................................................................................... 93
24.7 Changing the assembly main part......................................................................................................... 93
24.8 Changing the main assembly................................................................................................................ 94
24.9 Creating assembly views ...................................................................................................................... 94
24.10 Assembly examples .............................................................................................................................. 95
LESSON 5 97
25 Modifying the work area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
25.1 Fit work area to selected parts.............................................................................................................. 98
25.2 Fit work area using two points............................................................................................................... 98
25.3 Fit work area to entire model in selected views .................................................................................... 99
25.4 Finding distant objects .......................................................................................................................... 99
25.5 Finding distant points ............................................................................................................................ 99
25.6 Finding distant reference models........................................................................................................ 100
25.7 Hide the work area lines...................................................................................................................... 100
26 Clip planes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
26.1 Creating clip planes............................................................................................................................. 101
26.2 Moving clip planes............................................................................................................................... 101
26.3 Deleting clip planes............................................................................................................................. 102
27 Work plane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
27.1 Set work plane parallel to a plane....................................................................................................... 103
27.2 Set work plane using three points....................................................................................................... 103
27.3 Set work plane parallel to view plane.................................................................................................. 104
27.4 Set work plane to top plane of a part .................................................................................................. 104
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28 Advanced snapping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
28.1 Numeric snapping................................................................................................................................ 104
28.2 Numeric location coordinates .............................................................................................................. 105
28.3 Using temporary reference points ....................................................................................................... 106
28.4 Locking coordinates............................................................................................................................. 106
28.5 Snapping examples ............................................................................................................................. 107
LESSON 6 115
29 Component catalog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .116
30 Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
30.1 Creating components .......................................................................................................................... 117
30.2 Component status ............................................................................................................................... 118
30.3 Modifying component properties ......................................................................................................... 118
30.4 Saving component properties.............................................................................................................. 118
30.5 Conceptual components...................................................................................................................... 119
Converting conceptual components................................................................................................ 119
30.6 Example............................................................................................................................................... 119
Creating a base plate detail ............................................................................................................ 119
Modifying the base plate detail ....................................................................................................... 120
31 Creating component default views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
32 Material catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
32.1 Adding a material grade ...................................................................................................................... 123
32.2 Deleting a material grade .................................................................................................................... 124
33 Profile catalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
33.1 Adding profiles..................................................................................................................................... 125
33.2 Modifying profiles................................................................................................................................. 126
33.3 Deleting profiles................................................................................................................................... 126
34 Parametric profiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
LESSON 7 129
35 Entering project information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130
36 Switching between single-user and multi-user modes . . . . . . . 131
37 Phase Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
37.1 Dividing the model into phases............................................................................................................ 133
37.2 Filtering phases ................................................................................................................................... 133
37.3 Switching phases................................................................................................................................. 133
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37.4 Bolts in phases.................................................................................................................................... 133
38 Representing objects in model views . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
38.1 Creating object representation settings............................................................................................... 134
39 Checking the model. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
39.1 Performing a clash check.................................................................................................................... 136
Setting a minimum clearance for bolts for a clash check ............................................................... 136
39.2 Flying through the model..................................................................................................................... 137
39.3 Checking using reports ....................................................................................................................... 138
40 Inquire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
40.1 Inquire object....................................................................................................................................... 139
Inquire object for bolts .................................................................................................................... 139
40.2 Inquire assembly objects..................................................................................................................... 140
40.3 Inquire welded parts............................................................................................................................ 140
40.4 Inquire center of gravity....................................................................................................................... 140
41 Measuring distances, angles, and bolt spaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141
LESSON 8 143
42 Custom components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
42.1 Custom component types ................................................................................................................... 144
42.2 Exploding components........................................................................................................................ 144
42.3 Defining custom components.............................................................................................................. 144
42.4 Exporting and importing ...................................................................................................................... 145
43 Reference models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145
43.1 Inserting a reference model ................................................................................................................ 146
43.2 Hiding a reference model.................................................................................................................... 146
43.3 Updating a reference model................................................................................................................ 147
43.4 Detecting changes in reference models.............................................................................................. 147
Example ......................................................................................................................................... 148
43.5 Handling large reference models ........................................................................................................ 149
44 WebViewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149
44.1 Publishing a model as a web page ..................................................................................................... 150
45 Tekla Structures Model Reviewer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151
45.1 Opening a model in Model Reviewer .................................................................................................. 151
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LESSON 9 153
46 Windbracing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154
46.1 Windbracing in a front plane................................................................................................................ 154
46.2 Windbracing in a straight roof plane .................................................................................................... 155
46.3 Windbracing in a sloping roof .............................................................................................................. 156
Moving the work plane parallel to the roof plane ........................................................................... 156
Making the view parallel to the sloping roof plane .......................................................................... 156
Windbracing using the roof plane view ........................................................................................... 157
Windbracing without using the roof plane view............................................................................... 157
46.4 Shortening windbracing ....................................................................................................................... 158
Checking windbracing..................................................................................................................... 159
46.5 Shortening examples........................................................................................................................... 159
46.6 Windbracing examples ........................................................................................................................ 160
LESSON 10 163
47 Component examples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164
47.1 Steel components................................................................................................................................ 164
End plate (144) ............................................................................................................................... 164
Two-sided end plate (142) .............................................................................................................. 165
Stiffened end plate (27)................................................................................................................... 165
Partial stiff end plate (65) ................................................................................................................ 166
Bolted gusset (11)........................................................................................................................... 166
Central gusset (169) ....................................................................................................................... 167
Column seating (39)........................................................................................................................ 168
Cranked beam (41)......................................................................................................................... 168
Haunch (40) .................................................................................................................................... 169
Joining plates (14)........................................................................................................................... 169
Stub (28) ......................................................................................................................................... 169
Column two beams (3).................................................................................................................... 170
Base plate (1004)............................................................................................................................ 170
Base plate (1029)............................................................................................................................ 170
Stiffeners (1003) ............................................................................................................................. 172
Stub (1011) ..................................................................................................................................... 172
End plate (1002) ............................................................................................................................. 172
Stanchion weld (85) ........................................................................................................................ 173
Round tube (23).............................................................................................................................. 173
Bolts in a part (1006)....................................................................................................................... 173
Manlock column (1032)................................................................................................................... 174
Manlock beam (1033) ..................................................................................................................... 174
Array of objects (29)........................................................................................................................ 174
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 7
LESSON 11 177
48 Using Tekla Structures Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178
48.1 Opening Tekla Structures Help ........................................................................................................... 178
48.2 Browsing Help topics by subject ......................................................................................................... 178
48.3 Finding Help topics using the index .................................................................................................... 178
48.4 Searching for Help topics.................................................................................................................... 179
Viewing the search results ............................................................................................................. 179
Using search filters......................................................................................................................... 179
48.5 Saving favorite Help topics.................................................................................................................. 180
8 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Introduction
Tekla Structures is Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that enables the creation
and management of accurately detailed and highly constructable 3D structural models
regardless of material or structural complexity. Tekla models can be used to cover the entire
building process from conceptual design to fabrication, erection, and construction
management.
The 3D structural model includes the geometry and design of the structure, and all the
information about profiles and cross sections, connection types, materials, structural analysis,
etc. Tekla Structures drawings and reports are integrated with the models. Consequently,
dimensions and marks are always correct. Drawings and reports can be created at any stage of
the project and updated according to the changes in the model.
Tekla helps all new Tekla Structures users to get started and to maintain their development. Our
well-defined training course is a jump start to Tekla Structures software and helps to maximize
using Tekla Structures to its full potential. During the basic training course, you will be taught
the basic principles of Tekla Structures. Each training day contains several exercises so you
will learn to apply what you have learned in theory. The instructor will show the correct
solution to each exercise. You can freely ask the the instructor questions to make sure you have
understood each point correctly.
This training manual is intended to be used during a basic Tekla Structures training course, but
you can also use it on your own after the training course. In addition, Tekla provides online
learning material so the users can learn how to benefit from version improvements and adapt to
using the new features.
The following learning and support material is available on the Tekla Extranet (https://
extranet.tekla.com) for all our customers with a valid maintenance agreement. When the
material is available also in the Tekla Structures software via the help menu, it is separately
indicated.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 9
Type Material Language Location
Training manuals Steel Detailing, English, French, Extranet:
Modeling German, Dutch,
Self-learning > Manuals & instructions
Italian, Spanish,
Steel Detailing,
Russian, Japanese,
Drawings
Chinese
Precast Concrete
Detailing,
Modeling
Precast Concrete
Detailing,
Drawings
Engineering,
Modeling
Engineering,
Drawings
Construction
Management
Cast-in-place English
Concrete Detailing,
Modeling
Cast-in-place
Concrete Detailing,
Drawings
Product Help file English, French, Help > Tekla Structures Help
documentation German, Dutch,
Manuals in PDF Extranet:
Italian, Spanish,
format
Russian, Japanese, Self-learning > Manuals & instructions
Release Notes Chinese Help > Release Notes
Quick reference Extranet:
guide to Tekla
Self-learning > Manuals & instructions
Structures
Keyboard shortcuts Extranet:
Self-learning > Manuals & instructions
Videos and tutorials First Steps with English, Finnish, Help > Learning Center > First Steps with
Tekla Structures - Swedish, German, Tekla Structures
Interactive Tutorial Dutch, French,
Extranet:
Spanish, Italian,
Russian, Self-learning > Interactive tutorials & videos
Japanese, Chinese http://www.tekla.com/firststeps
Top New Features English, German, Help > Learning Center > Top New Features
Videos Dutch, French,
Extranet:
Spanish, Italian,
Russian, Self-learning > Interactive tutorials & videos
Japanese, Chinese http://www.tekla.com/topnewfeatures
More videos and English Extranet:
tutorials
Self-learning > Interactive tutorials & videos
10 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Type Material Language Location
Other support Start-up checklist English Extranet:
material
Self-learning > Start-up checklist
Frequently Asked Extranet:
Questions
Self-learning > Questions & answers
Discussion Forum Extranet:
Discussion Forum
Product English, French, Extranet:
Information German, Japanese,
Product
Chinese
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 11
12 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 1
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to start Tekla Structures
• how to create, open, and save a model
• how to move around in the model
• what views are and how they are created
• how to use the common buttons in the dialog boxes
> LESSON 1
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 13
1 Starting Tekla Structures
1. Click the Windows Start button.
2. Click All Programs.
3. Go to the Tekla Structures 16.0 menu item and click Tekla Structures 16.0.
The Tekla Structures - Login dialog box opens.
4. In the dialog box, select the license, role and environment you want to use.
5. Click OK to start Tekla Structures.
14 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
2. Enter the name of the model in the Model name box.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 15
3 Opening a model
16 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
The information in the Designer and Description columns comes from
the Project Properties dialog box.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 17
It is recommended that you complete any models you have started using
your current Tekla Structures version. Custom components and drawings
created in an older version may not work properly in the new Tekla
Structures version.
4 Saving a model
Tekla Structures prompts you to save the open model when you close Tekla Structures. You
should also save your model regularly to avoid losing any work. Autosave also automatically
saves your work at regular intervals.
To save the model, click File > Save, or click . Tekla Structures saves the model and the
message database stored appears on the status bar.
18 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
5.1 Zooming
The zoom tools allow you to focus in on a particular area, or pull out for a wider view.
Use the mouse wheel to zoom in and out in the model: scroll forward to zoom in, scroll
backward to zoom out.
You can also zoom by clicking View > Zoom and selecting an option.
5.2 Panning
To pan, hold down the middle mouse button. When the pointer changes to a hand symbol, click
and drag the model to move it anywhere in the view window.
To activate or disable the middle button pan, click Tools > Options > Middle Button Pan, or
Shift + M. There is a checkmark next to the menu option when the middle button pan is active.
5.3 Rotating
1. To set the center of rotation, use the keyboard shortcut V.
2. Pick the center of rotation.
3. Hold down the Ctrl key and drag with the middle mouse button to rotate the model.
6 Views
A view is a representation of a model from a specific location. Each view is displayed in its
own window in the Tekla Structures. There are several types of views. For example, you can
create views
• of the entire model
• of selected parts and components
• of selected assemblies and cast units
• along grid lines.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 19
The View Properties dialog box contains the following options:
Option Description
Name Name of the view. You should give a view a unique name if
you need to open it in later sessions. When you exit the
model, Tekla Structures only saves named views.
Angle Switch between the 3D and Plane angle.
Projection Switch between the Orthogonal and Perspective projection.
The options are available only in the rendered view type.
Rotation around Z Rotation angle around the z axis.
Rotation around X Rotation angle around the x axis.
View type View type defines the appearance of the view. The view type
options are Rendered and Wire frame.
Color and transparency Color and transparency settings that are applied to object
in all views groups in all views.
View depth: Up View depth upwards from the view plane. The objects within
the displayed depth and the work area are visible in the
model
View depth: Down View depth downwards from the view plane. The objects
within the displayed depth and the work area are visible in
the model
Visibility of object types Define the visibility and representation of object types.
Visible object group Define the visibility of object groups.
LESSON 1
Views
20 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
6.2 Display
You can define visibility and representation settings of object types in the Display dialog box.
To open the Display dialog box, click View > View Properties... and then click Display... in the
View Properties dialog box.
The Display dialog box contains the Settings and Advanced tabs.
Settings tab You can define the visibility of object types in the Settings tab. You can also define the
representation settings of model parts and components.
LESSON 1
Views
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 21
The Fast option is the recommended representation mode for bolts. This option increases
display speed significantly and consumes less system memory. The Fast option displays the
axis and a cross to represent the bolt head. Exact shows bolts, washers, and nuts as solids.
Advanced tab You can define the visibility of a part center line, part reference line, part labels and connection
texts in the Advanced tab.
You can also define the size of points in views. In model increases the point size on the screen
when you zoom in. In view does not.
Sometimes the work area in the model can be huge because points are
positioned far away from the origin of the model. To easily locate these
points for deletion, change the Point size to 1000 or 1500.
LESSON 1
Views
22 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
6.3 Creating a basic view
Basic views are those parallel to the global basic planes, i.e. xy, xz, and zy. In basic views two
axes always define the view plane and they appear in the plane name. The third axis is
perpendicular to the view plane. It does not appear in the plane name. In the basic plane view,
the model is shown from the direction of that third axis.
To create a basic view:
4. Click View > Create View of Model > Basic View... or to open the Create Basic
View dialog box.
5. Enter the level distance in the Coordinate box. For example, if you want that the plane
view is at level +4500, enter 4500 in the box.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 23
1. Click the view.
A red frame appears in the edge of the view. The view is now selected.
2. Right-click and select Move Special > Linear....
The Move - Linear dialog box opens.
3. Enter the moving distance in the dZ box and click Move.
The Confirm View Move dialog box opens.
4. Click Yes.
The plane moves.
If you want to change the name of the view, double-click the view and enter the name in the
View Properties dialog box.
5. When the direction is correct, pick the second point on the grid line.
A new view is created.
LESSON 1
Views
24 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
6.6 Creating a view using three points
You can use the Create View of Model > Using Three Points command to create, for
example, views perpendicular to a plane of a part. To create a view:
1. Hold down the Shift key and click View > Create View of Model > Using Three Points
to open the View Properties dialog box.
2. Define the properties and click OK.
3. Pick the first point to indicate the origin of the view plane.
4. Pick the second point to indicate the direction of the view x axis.
5. Pick the third point to indicate the direction of the view y axis.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 25
6.7 Opening, closing, and deleting named views
You can open, close, and delete named views in the Views dialog box. To open the dialog box,
The Named views list contains the named views that are closed.
LESSON 1
Views
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Opening views To open views, select them and click the arrow to move the views to the Visible views list.
The number of the named views is unlimited, but the maximum number
of open views is nine.
Closing views To close a view, move the view to the Named views list.
Deleting views To delete a view, select the view and click Delete.
To select multiple views on lists, use the Shift and Ctrl keys when you
select views. To deselect views, hold down the Ctrl key.
To turn Rollover highlight on and off, press H or click Tools > Options > Rollover highlight.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 27
Example
Rendered (Ctrl + 4)
7 Common buttons
Most of the Tekla Structures dialog boxes contain common buttons. These buttons mean the
same thing in all dialog boxes. The common buttons are:
Button Description
Retains the properties in the dialog box without closing the dialog
box. Tekla Structures uses these properties the next time you create
an object of this type.
Closes the dialog box without retaining the properties in the dialog
box or modifying objects.
Creates a new object using the properties in the dialog box.
Fills the dialog box with the properties of the selected object. When
you select several objects, Tekla Structures takes the properties from
one of the selected objects.
Displays the help topics for the dialog box.
Common buttons
Modifies the selected objects using the properties in the dialog box,
but does not retain the properties in the dialog box.
LESSON 1
28 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Button Description
Retains the properties in the dialog box and closes the dialog box.
Tekla Structures uses these properties the next time you create an
object of this type.
Toggles all the modify filter check boxes in the dialog box on and
off.
Common buttons
LESSON 1
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 29
30
LESSON 1
Common buttons
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 2
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to create and modify grids
• what the work area is
• how to create plane views along grid lines
> LESSON 2
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 31
8 Grids
The Tekla Structures grids are rectangular and they are shown on the view plane by dash-and-
dot lines. Using grids makes it easy to create a model and to locate objects in the model.
When you create a new model, Tekla Structures creates a default grid which can be modified.
You can have one or more grids for one model. You can create one large grid for the entire
model and one or more smaller grids for detailed sections. You can also create single grid lines
and attach them to an existing grid.
32 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
2. Adjust the grid properties by entering the x, y, and z coordinates and the labels for the
grid lines.
The coordinates in the x and y directions are relative distances. The coordinates in the z
direction are absolute distances.
Use spaces to separate the coordinate values. Enter zero as the first
coordinate value to show the first grid line on the 0,0 coordinate.
Note that the origin must be different from the origin of the first grid.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 33
8.3 Creating a grid on a shifted work plane
The current work plane defines the local coordinate system of a Tekla Structures model. You
can shift the current work plane to any position by picking three points. The current work plane
is model specific so it is related to all views.
You can create a new grid and rotate the grid according to a shifted work
plane. This makes it easier to model in the shifted work plane.
34 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
8.5 Modifying grid lines
1. Activate the Select grid line selection switch .
2. Double-click the grid line you want to modify.
The Grid Line Properties dialog box opens.
3. Make the necessary modifications in the Grid Line Properties dialog box.
4. Click Modify.
9 Work area
The work area is the primary area where you can edit the model. Tekla Structures indicates the
work area of a view using green dashed lines.
You can define the work area to suit any particular situation. For instance, you can concentrate
on just one area of the model or the complete model. Objects outside the work area are invisible
but they still exist in the model.
Work area
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 35
10 Creating plane views along grid lines
1. Click View > Create View of Model > Along Grid Lines....
The Creation of Views Along Grids Lines dialog box opens.
4. Move views from the Named views list to the Visible views list.
The direction of all views is -x, +y, and -z.
LESSON 2
36 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 2
Creating plane views along grid lines
37
38
LESSON 2
Creating plane views along grid lines
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 3
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to snap on points
• how to use and customize Mini Toolbar
• how to create parts such as columns and beams
• how to modify parts
• how to create chamfers in part corners
• how to control the selection of objects.
> LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 39
11 Snapping
Many Tekla Structures tools prompt you to pick points to position objects in a model. To make
it easier for you to pick points, as you move the mouse pointer it locks to the closest point and
the pointer changes to a cross-hair symbol. This is called snapping.
Button Description
Snaps to the nearest points on objects, e.g. any point on part edges or lines.
40 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Button Description
Snaps to grid lines, reference lines, and the edges of existing objects.
You can pick the object reference points, i.e., the points that have handles.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 41
11.3 Orthogonal snapping
Use the shortcut O (Tools > Ortho) to snap to positions in orthogonal directions on the work
plane (0, 45, 90, 135, 180 degrees, etc.).
12 Mini Toolbar
You can modify the most common properties of modeling objects with the Mini Toolbar.
The Mini Toolbar appears next to the mouse pointer when you select an object and fades out
when you move the mouse further away or change the selection. You can change the position of
the toolbar by dragging it and locking it to a new position with the lock button in the top right
corner.
42 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
2. Move the pointer over the Mini Toolbar.
3. Modify the profile in the Mini Toolbar and press enter.
The profile of the column is changed.
Changing part In this example we modify the position of a beam using the Mini Toolbar:
position
1. Click in the Mini Toolbar.
A window with additional options appears.
Mini Toolbar
LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 43
Part orientation
Angle
Plane offset
Depth offset
2. To change the overall position of the beam, use the round selection dial. Click and drag to
select a position.
3. To change the rotation angle, click and drag the green rotation angle knob.
4. To change the Angle, Plane offset, or Depth offset, enter a value in the corresponding
box.
44 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
3. Select the elements you want to show or hide in the Mini Toolbar.
The Preview area shows what the toolbar will look like.
4. Add macros and user-defined attributes to the Mini Toolbar.
a Select a macro or user-defined attribute from the list.
b Click Add to Mini Toolbar to add the macro or user-defined attribute to the list of
visible elements.
5. When you have finished customizing the Mini Toolbar, click OK.
13 Part properties
In addition to the Mini Toolbar, you can use the part properties dialog box to view or modify
the properties of a part.
The basic options of the Attributes and Position tabs are described in this section. In addition,
instructions on how to modify part properties are provided.
To open a part properties dialog box, double-click the button of the part, or click Modeling >
Properties and select an option.
Part properties
LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 45
13.1 Attributes tab
The Attributes tab includes options for entering the name and defining the material of the part,
for example.
Option Description
Name The name of the part is user-definable. Tekla Structures uses part
names in reports and drawing lists, and to identify parts of the same
type, for example, beams or columns
Profile / Shape Enter the profile of the part. Click the button next to the box to select
the profile from the catalog.
Material Enter the material of the part. Click the button next to the box to
select the material from the catalog.
Finish Finish is user-definable. It describes how the part surface has been
treated, for example, with fire retardant coating.
Class Use Class to group parts wit different colors.
User-defined User-defined attributes provide extra information about a part. Attri-
attributes butes can consist of numbers, text, or lists. Click User-defined attri-
butes... to enter user-defined attrubutes.
Part properties
LESSON 3
46 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
13.2 Position tab
The Position tab contains options for defining the placement of the part. The available options
vary from part to part.
Option Description
Position The Position area contains options for defining the location of the
part relative to its reference point or the work plane.
Levels For parts that you create by picking only one point (for example,
columns), you can enter the positions of the part ends, relative to the
picked point, in the global z direction. Use Bottom to define the
position of the first end. Use Top to define the position of the second
end. For example, the height of a column is defined with the entered
values.
End offset Use end offsets to move the ends of a part, relative to its reference
line. You can enter positive and negative values.
Part properties
LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 47
Option Description
Curved beam Define the curvature of the part by entering the radius and the plane
of curvature.
Mutual The Position tab in the Twin Profile Properties dialog box contains
position of the Mutual postion of members area. Select an option from the
members Twin profile type list to define how the profiles are combined. To
define the clearances between the profiles, enter values in the
Horizontal and Vertical boxes.
If you click OK to close the dialog box, the modified properties are
retained and will be used the next time you create parts of the same type.
A quick way to modify the properties of a part is using the mini toolbar.
For more information, see Mini Toolbar (p. 42).
14 Steel parts
LESSON 3
You can create steel parts by using the buttons in the Steel toolbar, or select a command from
Steel parts
48 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Button Command Description
Column Creates a steel column at a picked position.
Curved Beam Creates a steel beam with its radius defined by three picked
points.
Twin Profile Creates a twin profile between two picked points. A twin
profile consists of two beams.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 49
When you create horizontal parts such as beams be consistent and
always pick points from left to right, and from bottom to top. This
ensures that Tekla Structures places and dimensions the parts in the same
way in drawings, and that part marks automatically appear at the same
part end.
Do not enter any values for the radius or the number of segments in the
polybeam properties, because it will have a negative effect on the output.
For curved beams, you can enter values for the radius or the number of
segments.
Curved sections You can create curved sections for polybeams. Use the chamfer feature to create the curved
sections. For more information, see Corner chamfers (p. 57).
LESSON 3
Steel parts
50 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
To ensure that you will have correct information in NC files, create
polybeams a little shorter than needed (1). Fit them afterwards or
connect them by using a component (2).
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Setting contour You can set the contour plate main axis to follow the line created by the first and second points
plate orientation you pick. This enables you to manually define the plate orientation in drawings and reports.
To set the contour plate orientation:
1. Create the contour plate. The first and second points you pick define the main axis of the
plate.
2. Double-click the plate to open the Contour Plate Properties dialog box.
3. Click the User-defined-attributes... button and go to the Orientation tab.
4. Select From 1st to 2nd creation point from the Main axis direction list.
LESSON 3
Steel parts
52 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
5. Click Modify and OK to close the dialog box.
6. Click OK to close the properties dialog box.
7. Click Drawings & Reports > Numbering > Number Modified Objects to update
numbering.
8. Create a single-part drawing of the contour plate to view the orientation.
15 Part modifications
This section provides information on part modifications. The following topics are explained:
• Moving start and end points
• Bending parts
• Tubular sections
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 53
Start point
End point
You can use the boxes in the End Offset area located in the part properties dialog box to move
the reference points of the part.
Part modifications
LESSON 3
54 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
It is not recommended to use the boxes in the End Offset area for
extending or shortening parts.
You can see the dimension of extension or shortening when you drag the handle.
Drag the handle along the blue dashed line (the line extension of the
part). This way you do not change the orientation of the part.
To extend or shorten parts by dragging, the Drag and Drop feature must
be enabled. When Drag and Drop is enabled, the D letter is displayed in
the status bar.
To activate Drag and Drop, click Tools > Options > Drag and Drop, or
press the D key.
You can create curved parts by defining a radius and the plane of curvature in the part
LESSON 3
properties dialog box. You can bend beams, panels and strip footings. To bend a part:
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 55
1. Double-click the part to open the part properties dialog box and check the Curved beam
area.
2. Enter the radius in the Radius box.
3. Define the plane of curvature, which is relative to the current work plane.
4. Enter the number of segments.
The number of segments determines how realistic the curved part looks. The more
segments, the less angular the part appears.
5. Click Modify to bend the part.
Use the following advanced options in Tools > Options > Advanced Options... > Speed and
Accuracy to control the chord tolerance:
• XS_CHORD_TOLERANCE_SMALL_TUBE_SIZE_LIMIT
Part modifications
Use to define the limit that determines whether a tube is considered small when calculating
the chord tolerance. The value is compared to the diameter of the profile. Enter the value in
LESSON 3
56 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
• XS_CHORD_TOLERANCE_FOR_TUBE_SEGMENTS
Use to define the chord tolerance for round tubes larger than the limit set by the advanced
option XS_CHORD_TOLERANCE_SMALL_TUBE_SIZE_LIMIT. Enter the value in
millimeters. The default value is 1.0.
• XS_CHORD_TOLERANCE_FOR_SMALL_TUBE_SEGMENTS
Use to define the chord tolerance for round tubes smaller than or equal to the limit set by
the advanced option XS_CHORD_TOLERANCE_SMALL_TUBE_SIZE_LIMIT. Enter the
value in millimeters. The default value is 1.0.
16 Corner chamfers
Some part corners can be chamfered. You can use the Chamfer command to shape the
following parts: concrete and steel polybeams, contour plates, strip footings, concrete slabs,
and concrete panels.
The end points of a part do not have corner chamfers. The handles that
you select must be at corner points or between two segments of a part.
When Tekla Structures creates a part, by default it has a rectangular chamfer at each corner,
which does not change the geometry of the part.
Default chamfer
Modified chamfers
Corner chamfers
LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 57
Tekla Structures creates chamfers using the active properties in the Chamfer Properties dialog
box. Click Detailing > Properties > Chamfer > Part Corner Chamfer... to open the dialog box,
or double-click an existing chamfer.
Option Description
Type Defines the shape of the chamfer.
x The dimension of the chamfer.
y The second dimension of straight chamfers.
dz1 Moves the top surface of the part corner in the local z direction of
the part.
dz2 Moves the bottom surface of the part corner in the local z direction
of the part.
58 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
17 Selection switches
You can control object selection by using the selection switches. The selection switches are
located in the Selecting toolbar.
Button Description
Turns all switches on. Select all object types, except for
single bolts.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 59
Button Description
Select points.
Select welds.
Select planes.
Select distances.
Select selection filters. The list lists both standard and user-
defined selection filters.
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17.1 Selection filters
Tekla Structures contains several selection filters by default. By using selection filters you can
select particular objects. If you use, for example, the columns filter, you can only select
columns in the model. The Selection Filter list lists the standard and user-defined filters.
Selection filters
1. Click the Selection Filter button, or click Edit > Selection Filter... to open the
Object Group - Selection Filter dialog box.
2. Find a filter which has close to the same settings as you need.
3. Modify the settings, then enter a new name in the Save as box.
4. Click Save as, then OK to exit.
You can now choose the new filter from the list.
1. Click the Selection Filter button, or click Edit > Selection Filter... to open the
Object Group - Selection Filter dialog box.
2. Click Delete all to remove all the rows.
LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 61
Now the Object Group - Selection Filter dialog box contains one row where you can
define the filter.
4. Click the box in the Property column to show the list arrow.
5. Open the list and select Class.
6. Click the box in the Value column.
7. Enter 2.
8. In the box next to the Save as button, enter Class_2.
9. Click Save as to save the selection filter.
Use the selection filter to select the parts whose class is two.
62 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
The Select assemblies switch must be active if you want to copy the whole assembly
(the beam with the end plate and the holes).
Scrolling To define the level on which to select objects in nested components or assemblies, hold down
assembly levels the Shift key and scroll with the mouse wheel. Level 0 is the highest assembly level.
Selection switches
LESSON 3
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 63
Level 0
Level 1
Level 1:
When you generate reports, drawings, NC files or other types of output of the beam, you should
use the Select objects in components switch to select all objects. The report displays
information of the beam and the end plates.
The Select components switch selects objects at the highest level. The end plates
Selection switches
created by a component are highlighted but are not selected, and the information of them is not
displayed in the report.
LESSON 3
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TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 3
Selection switches
65
66
LESSON 3
Selection switches
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 4
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to copy and move objects
• how to detail profiles
• how to create welds
• how to use bolts
• how to split and combine parts
• how to create points
• how to work with assemblies
> LESSON 4
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 67
18 Copying and moving
You can copy and move objects linearly, with rotation, and with mirroring. Copying creates a
new object, leaving the existing object in its original position. Moving relocates the existing
object. Moving can be used to relocate the original component to a new place in the model.
copy
move
Tekla Structures has the following options for copying and moving components:
Command Description
Edit > Copy or Ctrl + C Copies selected objects
Edit > Copy Special > Linear... Creates copies of selected objects at a
specified distance from the original.
Edit > Copy Special > Rotate... Creates a copy and rotates it either
around a specified line on a work plane
or around the work plane z axis.
Edit > Copy Special > Mirror... Creates a mirrored copy of an object
through a specified plane.
Edit > Copy Special > To Another Creates a copy on another plane using
Plane three specified points.
Edit > Copy Special > To Another Copies selected objects from one object
Object to another.
Edit > Copy Special > From Another Copies selected objects from another
Model... model.
Command Description
Edit > Move or Ctrl + M Moves selected objects.
Edit > Move Special > Linear... Moves selected objects a specified
distance.
Edit > Move Special > Rotate... Moves the object and rotates it either
around a specified line on a work plane
or around the work plane Z axis.
Edit > Move Special > Mirror... Mirrors the object and moves it through
a specified plane.
LESSON 4
68 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Command Description
Edit > Move Special > To Another Moves the object using three specified
Plane points.
Edit > Move Special > To Another Moves selected objects from one object
Object to another.
18.1 Copying
1. Select the objects to copy.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 69
18.2 Copying linearly
Linear copying creates one or several copies of a selected object at a specified distance from
the original. Use linear copying when you want to make many copies of objects at equal
distances. For example, use linear copying to create floors of a building.
To copy linearly:
1. Select the object(s) to copy.
If the dialog box is open but the command is not active anymore, click
the Pick button to re-activate the command.
3. Pick a point, or enter the coordinates of the rotation axis in the Origin area.
LESSON 4
70 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
5. If required, enter the dZ value, which is the difference in position between the original
and copied object in the z direction.
6. Enter the angle of rotation.
7. Click Copy to copy and rotate.
An example of copying and rotating:
Rotation point
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 71
18.5 Copying to another plane
You can create a copy of an object on another plane using three specified points.
1. Select the object to copy.
Selecting objects
Copied objects
LESSON 4
72 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
18.6 Copying to another object
You can make copies of selected objects from one object to another. This functionality is
useful, for example, when detailing previously modeled parts. The objects between which you
copy, can have different dimensions, length, and rotation.
To copy to another object:
1. Select the objects you want to copy.
LESSON 4
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 73
2. Select the source model from the Model directories list.
3. Enter the number(s) of the phase(s) from which to copy objects.
When you insert several phases, separate different phase numbers with a space. If
additional phases are not created, all the objects in the model are in phase one.
4. Click Copy.
18.8 Moving
1. Select the objects to move.
74 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
4. Pick the destination.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 75
If the dialog box is open but the command is not active anymore, click
the Pick button to re-activate the command.
4. Pick a point, or enter the coordinates of the rotation axis in the Origin area.
5. Enter the angle of rotation.
6. Click Move to move and rotate the object(s).
4. Click Move.
The objects are moved and mirrored.
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18.12Moving to another plane
You can move objects from the first plane you specify to another plane, which you specify by
picking three points. The moved objects remain in the same position on the second plane as the
original objects on the first plane.
1. Select the objects to move.
2. Click Edit > Move Special > To Another Plane
3. Pick a point of origin for the first plane
4. Pick a point on the first plane in the positive X direction.
5. Pick a point on the first plane in the positive Y direction.
6. Pick a point of origin for the second plane.
7. Pick a point on the second plane in the positive X direction.
8. Pick a point on the second plane in the positive Y direction.
19 Detailing profiles
You can use Tekla Structures for detailing profiles in the following ways:
• fit part end to fit a profile to the selected fitting line
• cut part with line to reshape the end of a profile
• cut part with another part to create part-shaped cuts
• cut part with a polygon to cut a polygon shape into a part
Fit part end fits a profile end to the selected fitting line. When fitting, the shortest part of the
profile is deleted automatically.
LESSON 4
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When you shorten a profile, always use the Fit Part End command.
When the Cut Part with Line command is used, the profile length values
in NC files can be incorrect.
Do not apply a second fitting on the same part end, because then Tekla
Structures will ignore the first fitting. This happens if you use the Fit
Part End command for cutting and try to make two cuts on the same part
end.
When you fit parts, ensure that the cutting plane is perpendicular to the model view. Use a
plane view when fitting.
78 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
5. Pick the side to be removed.
Circular holes can be made with the Cut part with another part
command. Circular holes are also dimensioned in drawings. However,
when creating circular holes, it is better to use the Create bolts
command. For larger holes, increase the tolerance of the holes.
1. Click Detailing > Cut Part > With Another Part or click .
2. Pick the part to be cut.
3. Pick the other part that will be used for cutting.
The dark blue lines are the cutting lines. It is possible to double-click the cutting line and
change its shape and size. You can delete the part used for cutting and the cutting line
will remain.
Solid error
You may get a solid error when cutting parts. This type of error occurs when Tekla Structures
experiences difficulties in calculating the part cut operation. In such cases, the cut profile is
highlighted in a transparent color.
Usually, the part cut can be made if an angular rotation is applied to the cut profile:
solid error
OK
Detailing profiles
LESSON 4
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 79
A solid error can also occur when using component 23 (Round tube). To solve the problem, set
a slight rotation for the component. A solid error needs to be corrected before you can continue.
Leaving it unsolved results in the profile lengths being wrong and it may not be possible to
create drawings.
The dark blue lines are cutting lines. They can be used for copying the cutting shape.
Detailing profiles
LESSON 4
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19.5 Detailing multiple profiles
You can modify multiple profiles at the same time. This applies also to fitting and welding.
The following example illustrates how you can modify multiple profiles at the same time:
1. Click Detailing > Weld > Create Weld Between Parts.
2. Select the main part and the secondary parts using cross selection.
1. Click Detailing > Create Surface Treatment > To Selected Area on Part Face.
2. Pick the origin of the surface treatment.
3. Pick a point to indicate the direction of the surface treatment.
4. Select an area of the part face on which to apply the surface treatment.
a Move the mouse cursor over a part. The faces that you can select appear in blue.
b Select the part face.
c Pick three or more points on the part face to define a polygonal area.
Detailing profiles
LESSON 4
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20 Welds
The Create weld between parts command is used to form assemblies. An assembly always
consists of one main part and one or more secondary parts. The welding order determines
which part of the assembly is the main part. When you create welds, you need to pick the main
part first and then pick the secondary part(s).
If the weld type and size are vital, the settings in the Weld Properties dialog box are important.
In case the welds are less important, for example, a weld that is not displayed in drawings, only
the weld size is important. If the weld will not be displayed in drawings, the weld size has to be
set smaller than the default size.
In most cases, workshop welds are used. It is also possible that on-site, or field welds, are
required. For example, when parts need to be welded to an existing structure. In such cases, you
must also select on-site or field welds in your model.
When you select on-site or field welds, the parts are not actually welded.
In the drawings, a flag indicates the on-site welds.
Do not use the Create weld between parts command to create sub-
assemblies or super assemblies. For example, do not weld a stud into a
beam.
Workshop weld
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21 Bolts
To create bolts, you can either create a single bolt group or apply a component that
automatically creates bolt groups.
You can create different part marks for holes and bolts in drawings.
You cannot use bolt elements such as screws, washers, and nuts, while creating holes, because
Tekla Structures uses the same command for creating bolts and holes.
LESSON 4
Bolts
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 83
Option Description
Bolt size Bolt diameter. Available diameters depend on the bolt
standard chosen.
Bolt standard Bolt assembly standard that is defined in the bolt
catalog.
Bolt type Indicates if bolts are fixed on-site or in the shop.
Default setting is Site.
Connect part/assembly Indicates whether you are bolting a secondary part or
a sub-assembly.
LESSON 4
84 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Option Description
Cut length Indicates which parts the bolt connects. Tekla
Structures searches for parts using half the cut length
value in both directions from the bolt group plane. If
you want to force a bolt to a certain length, enter a
negative value for length.
Extra length Extra bolt length.
Shape The shape of the bolt group. The options are Array,
Circle, and xy list.
Bolt dist X Bolt spacing, number, or coordinate, depending on the
bolt group shape.
Bolt dist Y Bolt spacing, group diameter, or coordinate,
depending on the bolt group shape.
Tolerance Clearance between bolt and hole.
Hole type Oversized or slotted. This list activates after you
select Parts with slotted holes check boxes.
Slotted hole X X allowance of a slotted hole. Zero for a round hole.
Slotted hole Y Y allowance of a slotted hole. Zero for a round hole.
Rotate slots Rotation of slots. Options are Odd, Even, and
Parallel.
On plane Bolt group location relative to the bolt group X axis
on the work plane.
Rotation How far the bolt group is rotated around its X axis.
At depth Bolt group location relative to work plane.
Dx, Dy, Dz Offsets that move the bolt group by moving the bolt
group X axis.
Holes
Tekla Structures uses the same command for creating bolts and holes. Before creating holes,
you need to change some of the properties in the Bolt Properties dialog box.
If you want to create only holes without any bolts, clear all the Include in bolt assembly check
boxes.
LESSON 4
Bolts
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 85
21.2 Creating a bolt group
Bolt groups are used to connect profiles. Bolts can penetrate one profile or multiple profiles. By
default, bolt groups are rectangular, but it is also possible to make circular bolt groups. When
you insert a bolt group, you need to pick two points. These two points determine the local x
direction of the bolt group. It is important that the points you pick to create the bolt group are
close enough to the parts you want to connect. The cut length property of a bolt group defines
how far along the bolt axis the parts must be in order to hit the bolt group.
86 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
21.3 Modifying bolt groups
If the bolts in a bolt group are too short, you can modify them.
1. Right-click the bolt group and select Bolt parts.
The parts are highlighted.
2. Follow the instructions in the command bar to select the connected parts.
The bolt length is adjusted to the new material thickness.
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1. Double-click the Create Bolts button.
The Bolt Properties dialog box opens.
2. Select the profiles that should contain the slotted holes by selecting one or more check
boxes in the Parts with slotted holes.
When a bolt penetrates more than one profile, you can determine whether slotted holes
are created for each profile individually.
3. Set the length of the slotted holes in the Slotted hole X and Slotted hole Y in the Bolt
Properties dialog box.
4. If the bolt connects several parts, you can rotate alternate holes by 90 degrees by
selecting one of the rotating options in the Rotate Slots list.
Options to rotate the slots:
• even
• odd
• parallel
88 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
You can create points first before picking the parts if necessary. New start and end points
are placed on the splitting spot.
If the numbering has already been done, the part and assembly number is allocated to the
part that was closest to the initial starting point of the profile. The other part gets a new
number and you must create a new drawing of it.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 89
Space is filled when combining
23 Points
To place an object in a model you may need to pick points. To place an object where no lines or
objects intersect, you have the following options:
• Use snapping commands. See Snapping (p. 40).
• Use construction planes, lines and circles.
• Create points.
To create points, use the buttons in the Points toolbar, or select a command from Modeling >
Add Points.
For more information on creating points and using construction planes, lines and circles, see
Tekla Structures online help.
90 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
2. Enter the number of dividing points.
3. Click OK.
4. Pick the starting point of the line.
5. Pick the end point of the line.
24 Assemblies
Tekla Structures creates basic assemblies of steel parts when you use a workshop weld or bolt
to join parts together. Assemblies and their main parts are automatically defined when you:
• create single workshop welds or bolts
• apply automatic connections which create workshop welds or bolts
You can also create nested assemblies by adding sub-assemblies to existing assemblies, or by
joining assemblies together.
The main part in a steel assembly has other parts welded or bolted to it. By default, the main
part is not welded or bolted to any other parts. You can change the main part in an assembly.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 91
To Do this
Create a basic assembly Do one of the following:
• Add parts to an existing assembly as secondary
parts.
• Bolt or weld parts to an existing assembly as
secondary parts.
Create a nested assembly Do one of the following:
• Add parts to an existing assembly as secondary
parts.
• Bolt or weld assemblies to an existing assembly
as sub-assemblies.
• Add assemblies to an existing assembly as sub-
assemblies.
• Join existing assemblies together without adding
any loose parts.
Reinforcement blue
92 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
Object type Highlight color
Steel part - main part orange
Steel part - secondary part yellow
Assembly hierarchy in nested assemblies affects drawings and reports. You can create separate
drawings and reports of the sub-assemblies and the nested assembly, and still produce
dimensions, marks, fabrication information, etc. for all assembly levels.
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 93
2. Ensure that the Select objects in assemblies selection switch is active.
3. Click Modeling > Assembly > Set as New Main Object of Assembly.
4. Select the new main part.
Tekla Structures changes the main part.
3. Right-click and select Create View, then select one of the options.
Tekla Structures creates the assembly view.
Assemblies
LESSON 4
94 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
24.10Assembly examples
Column corbel A column corbel is fabricated in one workshop, and then attached to the column in another
workshop. Model the corbel as a sub-assembly of the column. Then create an assembly
drawing for each workshop: one assembly drawing showing how the corbel is welded together,
another assembly drawing showing how the corbel and the other part are welded to the column.
Assemblies
LESSON 4
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Drawing 2, Workshop 2
Drawing 1, Workshop 1
Complex truss Model the halves of a complex truss as assemblies. Create assembly drawings for the workshop
to fabricate the truss halves. Then create another assembly drawing showing how the halves
should be joined on site.
Built-up profile In a frame of built-up columns and beams, each built-up profile can be a sub-assembly. You can
create an assembly drawing showing the entire frame, and separate drawings showing how the
columns and beams are built up.
Assemblies
LESSON 4
96 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 5
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to modify the work area
• how to create, move, and delete clip planes
• how to use work planes
• how to use more advanced snapping features
> LESSON 5
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16 97
25 Modifying the work area
You can modify the work area to suit particular situations. You can fit the work area and locate,
for example, distant objects from an oversized work area. It is also possible to hide the work
area lines.
2. Click View > Fit Work Area > To Selected Parts in Selected Views or click .
The work area concentrates on the selected objects. The objects outside the work area
still exist, but they are not visible.
1. Click View > Fit Work Area > Using Two Points or click .
2. Pick the two points you want as corner points for the work area.
LESSON 5
98 TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
The work area is changed according to the points you picked.
Selected Views or click . The work area includes all model objects in selected views.
The work area in a model view can be oversized if, for example, one or more points have been
positioned too far from the origin.
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To find distant points:
1. Activate the Select points and Select objects in components switches.
The other switches in the Selecting toolbar must not be activated.
2. Click Edit > Select All Objects or press Ctrl + A to select all points.
3. Check the number of selected points in the status bar and press Delete.
4. Click View > Fit Work Area > To Entire Model in Selected Views or click to fit
the model in the work area.
2. Click View > Fit Work Area > To Selected Parts in Selected Views or click .
The work area is resized to the reference model.
3. Move the reference model.
Hidden To hide the work area lines, keep the Ctrl and Shift keys
pressed and click View > Redraw All. The work area lines
are now hidden.
Visible Clicking View > Redraw All again makes the work area lines
visible again.
LESSON 5
Clip planes
LESSON 5
If you cannot see the arrow symbol because the parts block the view,
press Ctrl + 2 to make the parts transparent.
1. Click View > Set Work Plane > Parallel to XY(Z) Plane... or click .
The Work plane dialog box opens.
1. Click View > Set Work Plane > Parallel to View Plane or click .
2. Select the view you want to modify.
1. Click View > Set Work Plane > To Part Top Plane or click .
2. Select the part.
28 Advanced snapping
You can use advanced snapping features to control snapping accurately.
To display the toolbar, initiate a command that requires you to pick positions, and then do one
of the following:
You can
enter Description Example
Cartesian The x, y, and z coordinates of a
coordinates position separated by commas.
Creating a beam 1. Click Modeling > Create Steel Part > Beam and pick the start point.
at a certain level
2. Snap to the start point and press Z to lock the z direction.
Creating a beam 1. Click Modeling > Create Steel Part > Beam.
with a certain
length 2. Pick a start point for the beam.
3. Move the pointer.
The dimension changes as you move the pointer. The zooming level affects the precision
of snapping.
6. Pick the start point for the second beam on the extension line.
7. Snap to the end point of the first beam.
You can now snap on the extension line of the first beam end point. The snap point is
parallel to the first beam, when a blue line runs through the beam.
Advanced snapping
8. Pick the end point for the second beam on the extension line.
LESSON 5
4. Enter a distance from the temporary reference point and press Enter or click OK.
The start point of the beam is picked.
5. Move the pointer in the direction of the end point of the beam.
Advanced snapping
LESSON 5
Creating a beam 1. Click Modeling > Create Steel Part > Beam.
using snap
override 2. Use a temporary reference point to pick the start point of the beam at the center of the
grid line.
Advanced snapping
LESSON 5
4. Move the pointer in the direction of the end point of the beam.
Advanced snapping
LESSON 5
Advanced snapping
LESSON 5
114
Advanced snapping
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 6
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to use the component catalog
• how to create and modify components
• how to create component default views
• how to use the material catalog
• how to use the profile catalog
> LESSON 6
Search
View folders
View details
View thumbnails
Double-click the name to set the properties and create the component.
LESSON 6
30 Components
Components are tools that you can use to automatically create the parts, welds, and bolts
required to connect parts. They are linked to main parts, so, when you modify a main part, the
associated component also changes.
Components are divided into three sub-types:
You can recognize the properties file by checking the file extension. For example, if you save
the properties of the End plate detail (1002) component, the file extension is j1002.
Components
LESSON 6
Symb
Type ol Configuration Description
Conceptual Engineering Conceptual component does not create
assemblies, cast units, or reinforcing
bars.
The dialog box is the same as in
detailed component, but does not
contain options for part and assembly
positions.
Detailed Precast Concrete Fully detailed component contains part
Detailing and assembly numbering boxes and
creates needed assemblies, cast units
Steel Detailing
and reinforcing bars.
Full Detailing
30.6 Example
Two examples of using a component are presented here. In the first example, a base plate detail
is created. In the second example, the geometry of the base plate detail is modified.
6. Check that the connection symbol is green, which indicates that the connection was
created successfully.
4. Click Modify.
Components
Tab Description
The General tab The General tab has boxes for three alternative
names for the material. These are usually the
material names used in different countries or
standards. It also contains the profile and plate
density values.
The Analysis tab The Analysis tab has information on the
properties used in structural analysis. The
structure is analyzed using the Finite Element
Method.
The Design tab The Design tab has information on the design-
specific properties such as strengths and partial
safety factors.
The User attributes tab The User attributes tab can be used to create
your own attributes for material grades.
33 Profile catalog
The profiles in the Modify Profile Catalog dialog box are displayed in a tree structure. They are
grouped according to rules such as profile type (for example, I profiles) and profile sub-type
(for example, HEA).
Profile catalog
LESSON 6
34 Parametric profiles
Parametric profiles
A lot of parametric user-defined profiles, such as gutter profiles or spheres, are available in
Tekla Structures.
LESSON 6
Tekla Structures includes a cross section sketch editor that you can use to create your own
profile cross sections. Sketched cross sections are parametric so you can change their
dimensions each time you use them in a model.
Parametric profiles
LESSON 6
128
Parametric profiles
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 7
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to enter project information
• how to switch between single and multi-user modes
• how to use the phase manager
• how to represent objects in model views
• how to check the model
• how to make inquiries about objects
• how to check distances and angles
> LESSON 7
4. Click OK to save your changes and close the Tekla Structures Project (1) dialog box.
5. Click OK to save your changes and close the Project Properties dialog box.
3. Right-click and select Open as single-user model from the pop-up menu.
37 Phase Manager
The Phase Manager dialog box can be used to create phases. Phases are useful for splitting the
model into separate sections. Only parts can be split into phases. It is not possible for grids and
points. You can open the Phase Manager dialog box from Tools > Phase Manager... or by
using the shortcut Ctrl + H.
LESSON 7
objects.
LESSON 7
By default, several standard settings are included in the object representation, but you can also
create object representation settings by yourself.
You will be able to reuse the new object condition in other models.
11. Click Close.
The Object Group - Representation dialog blox closes. Note that the Object
Representation dialog box is still open.
12. In the Object Representation dialog box, click Color by class in the Color column to
Representing objects in model views
The Fly command only works rendered views with Projection set to
Perspective.
3. To stop flying, right-click and select Interrupt or press the Esc key.
40 Inquire
The inquire tool displays the properties of a particular object, or a group of objects, within the
model.
The Inquire Object dialog box displays information relevant to the objects you select.
LESSON 7
Inquire
The selected object and all parts of the object are highlighted.
Click Tools > Inquire > Primary Welded Part to highlight the
primary part when you select the secondary part.
Tools > Inquire > Welded Parts to highlight the selected part and all
the parts that are welded to it.
When calculating an object’s center of gravity, bolts and welds are not
taken into account, whereas polygon cuttings, part cuttings, fittings, and
line cuts are considered.
1. Select an object.
When you measure horizontal and vertical distances, use a plane view.
To switch to a plane view, press Ctrl + P.
142
Measuring distances, angles, and bolt spaces
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 8
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to define custom components
• how to use reference models
• how to publish models as web pages
• how to open models in Model Reviewer
> LESSON 8
Type Description
Connection Creates connection objects and connects secondary part(s) to a main
part.
Detail Creates detail objects and connects them to a main part at a picked
location.
Seam Creates seam objects and connects parts along a line picked with two
points.
Part Creates a group of objects which may contain connections and details.
Component Wizard.
To learn more about custom components, click Help > Learning Center
> Custom Component Tutorials and select an option.
43 Reference models
A reference model is a file which helps you to build a Tekla Structures model. Reference
models keep the size of model files relatively small, because the reference files are considered
as single objects.
Reference models
• AutoCAD (*.dwg)
2. Click Browse... next to the File name box to locate the reference model file.
3. Change the scale if it is different from the one in the Tekla Structures model.
4. Click OK.
5. Pick the position for the reference model origin.
Tekla Structures inserts the reference model.
1. Click File > Reference Model List... to open the Reference Models dialog box.
LESSON 8
Reference models
LESSON 8
Example
The following example shows how the changes are displayed in the reference model:
The old file:
44 WebViewer
You can publish your Tekla Structures models as web pages that can be viewed via the Internet
WebViewer
LESSON 8
using a web browser. The WebViewer files can also be used as reference models.
2. If you want to publish a web page of selected parts, select Selected parts.
3. Change the page title if required.
4. In the File name box, enter the destination path and file name for the published model.
By default, Tekla Structures creates a PublicWeb folder with sub-folders in the current
model folder, and places the published model there.
5. Click Publish. If you select the Open in browser check box, the model opens in your
web browser.
WebViewer
LESSON 8
When you save the model and the markups in Model Reviewer, the file is saved in .wmr
format.
152
Tekla Structures Model Reviewer
TEKLA STRUCTURES 16
LESSON 9
In this lesson, you will learn the following things:
• how to use windbracing
> LESSON 9
By default, an angle steel profile is loaded. In case of windbracings in front planes, flat
bracings are often used. Therefore, change the Profile to, for example, FL10*60.
3. Open the Position tab.
4. Select Middle in the On plane list and enter 5 in the box.
The windbracing will be positioned on the right side with an extra distance of 5 mm.
5. Click OK.
LESSON 9
6. Click OK.
7. Click the Create Beam button and place a windbracing profile from the left bottom side
LESSON 9
2. Click View > Creat View of Model > On Work Plane or click .
A new view looking perpendicularly to the roof plane is created.
3. Change the name of the view if you want to store it for later use.
When entering values to the Tekla Structures Beam dialog box, there is
a difference between entering the value 0 (zero) and leaving the box
empty.
4. Click Modify and Cancel, or click Modify and close the dialog box.
Checking windbracing
• Reports
You can use the reports User Defined Attributes (UDA) and id_part_list. In these reports,
the Shorten column displays which profiles are shortened.
• Object representation
You can create object representation settings to display shortened components.
Example 1 In this example, we have a windbracing that is 6000 mm in length. The windbracing has holes
at a bolt distance of 60 mm and an edge distance of 40 mm. Without shortening, the distances
would be: 40-60-5800-60-40.
If we shorten the windbracing by 4 mm, the total length should be 5996 mm. However, also the
holes have to be taken into consideration. Tekla Structures divides the total length after
shortening by the initial length of the bracing, that is, 5996 / 6000 = 0.9993. Each individual
distance is multiplied with this factor:
• 0.9993*40 = 39.973 mm
• 0.9993*60 = 59.960 mm
• 0.9993*5800 = 5796.133 mm
By default, the dimensions are rounded off in millimeters. The dimensioning in this example
will be: 40-60-5796-60-40. The shortening value of 4 mm will be applied to the largest
distance, that is the distance between the two bolt groups.
Example 2 In this example, we have a windbracing that is 2000 mm in length. It is shortened by 20 mm.
Tekla Structures divides the total length after shortening by the initial length of the bracing, that
is, 1980 / 2000 = 0.99. Each individual distance is multiplied with this factor:
• 0.99*40 = 39.6 mm
• 0.99*60 = 59.4 mm
• 0.99*1800 = 1782 mm
LESSON 9
Welded connections
Cross bolted
Cross welded
LESSON 9
Flat bar
LESSON 9
> LESSON 10
LESSON 10
Stub (28)
LESSON 10
Stub (1011)
Use the bolt delete option to determine which holes are deleted from the stub.
copied
If you modify the original objects, for example, a column, Tekla Structures
changes the copied objects as well.
LESSON 10
> LESSON 11
3. Use the blue-and-white arrow buttons to move to the next or previous topic.
To open or close all books on the Contents tab, right-click one of the
topics and select Open all or Close all from the pop-up menu.
If a keyword is associated with more than one topic, a list of topics appears and you are
prompted to select one of them.
If you want to find an exact phrase, or if the search term contains special
characters, enclose the phrase in double quotation marks. For example,
"bolt catalog" or "objects.inp".
To Do this
Display the search results in Click the Title column heading.
alphabetical order
Display the location of a topic in Click Locate on the Help toolbar.
the hierarchical list of topics
Find a specific word or phrase in Click the topic and press Ctrl + F.
the open topic
Move forward and backward Click Forward or Back on the Help toolbar.
through previously viewed topics
Show or hide the navigation pane Click Show or Hide on the Help toolbar.
Disable the highlighting of Click Options > Search Highlight Off.
search terms in the search results
Return to the Help cover page Click Home on the Help toolbar.
To enable or disable a search filter, select or clear the corresponding check box on the Search
tab.