Tekla Structures: Detailing Manual

Tekla Structures
Detailing Manual
Product version 10.0

January 2004
Copyright © 2004 Tekla Corporation

Copyright© 1992-2004 Tekla Corporation. All rights reserved.
This Software Manual has been developed for use with the referenced Software. Use of the
Software, and use of this Software Manual are governed by a License Agreement. Among
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ual, disclaims other warranties, limits recoverable damages, defines permitted uses of the Soft-
ware, and determines whether you are an authorized user of the Software. Please refer to the
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tered trademarks or trademarks of Tekla Corporation in the European Union, the United States,
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claims any such affiliation or endorsement, except where otherwise expressly stated.
Elements of the software described in this Manual may be the subject of pending patent applica-
tions in the European Union and/or other countries.
Contents
Preface......................................................................................................... 1
1 Getting Started ............................................................................................ 5

1.1 Basics .................................................................................................... 5
1.2 Using components................................................................................. 14
1.3 Defining parts and plates........................................................................ 18
1.4 Defining bolts and welds ........................................................................ 22
1.5 AutoConnection..................................................................................... 31
1.6 AutoDefaults ......................................................................................... 34
2 Steel Connection Properties .................................................................. 37

2.1 Notch ................................................................................................... 37
2.2 Haunch................................................................................................. 44
2.3 Stiffeners .............................................................................................. 46
2.4 Beam cut .............................................................................................. 50
2.5 Doubler plate ........................................................................................ 53
2.6 Angle box ............................................................................................. 55
TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL i

Contents
3 Concrete Detailing .................................................................................... 59
3.1 Corbel connection (14) ........................................................................... 59
3.2 Seating connections............................................................................... 63
3.3 Seating with dowel (75) .......................................................................... 63
3.4 Two-sided seating with dowel (76)........................................................... 68
3.5 Seating with dowel to flange (77)............................................................. 72
3.6 Two-sided seating with dowel to flange (78) ............................................. 74
3.7 Concrete stairs (7) ................................................................................. 76
3.8 Slabs .................................................................................................... 78
3.9 Slab generation with polygon plate (61) ................................................... 79
3.10 Slab generation with points (62) .............................................................. 81
4 Reinforcement ........................................................................................... 83
4.1 Getting started with reinforcement ........................................................... 84
4.2 Basic reinforcement properties................................................................ 85
4.3 Working with reinforcement..................................................................... 90
4.4 Reinforcement for foundations ................................................................ 96
4.5 Strip footing (75) .................................................................................... 96
4.6 Pile cap reinforcement (76) ..................................................................... 98
4.7 Pad footing (77) ................................................................................... 104
4.8 Starter bars ......................................................................................... 105
4.9 Beam, column, and slab reinforcement .................................................. 108
4.10 Beam reinforcement (63) ...................................................................... 108
4.11 Double tee reinforcement (64)............................................................... 111
4.12 Beam end reinforcement (79)................................................................ 114
4.13 Corbel reinforcement (81) ..................................................................... 117
4.14 Round column reinforcement (82) ......................................................... 120
4.15 Rectangular column reinforcement (83) ................................................. 124
4.16 Hole reinforcement for slabs and walls (84) ............................................ 128
4.17 Hole creation and reinforcement (85) ..................................................... 130
4.18 Slab bars (18)...................................................................................... 134
4.19 Single bars, bar groups, and meshes..................................................... 136
4.20 Lifting anchor (80)................................................................................ 137
ii TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Contents
5 Built-up Components............................................................................. 143
5.1 Beams................................................................................................ 143
5.2 Box girder (S13) .................................................................................. 144
5.3 Cross profile (S32)............................................................................... 146
5.4 Cross plate profile (S33)....................................................................... 147
5.5 Tapered beam (S98)............................................................................ 148
5.6 Tapered beam 2 (S45) ......................................................................... 150
5.7 Columns ............................................................................................. 154
5.8 Tapered column (S99) ......................................................................... 154
5.9 Tapered column 2 (S44)....................................................................... 157
5.10 Frames............................................................................................... 159
5.11 Tapered frame comonor (S53).............................................................. 159
5.12 Connections and details ....................................................................... 162
5.13 Tapered beam to column (197) ............................................................. 162
5.14 Tapered column to beam (199) ............................................................. 164
5.15 Tapered beam to beam (200) ............................................................... 165
5.16 Tapered column base plate (1068)........................................................ 167
5.17 Tapered component properties ............................................................. 168
6 Custom Components ............................................................................. 175

6.1 Defining custom components................................................................ 176
6.2 Editing custom components.................................................................. 184
6.3 Defining variables................................................................................ 189
6.4 Managing and using custom components .............................................. 201
6.5 Custom components reference ............................................................. 210
Appendix B : Connection Map ........................................................... 211
Index ........................................................................................................ 255
TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL iii

Contents
iv TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL
Contents
Preface
Introduction
This is the Tekla Structures Detailing Manual, a comprehensive guide to Tekla
Structures modeling, analysis, and design software. The following paragraphs
explain how this guide is organized, suggest different paths for different types of
user, describe the other guides provided in the package, and tell you how to
report any problems you have with the software or guides.
Audience
This guide is aimed at structural engineers, detailers and designers who model,
analyze, and design concrete and steel structures.
We assume that you are familiar with the processes of structural engineering.
Additional help resources

The following resources also provide information about Tekla Structures:
Web site
http://www.tekla.com
E-mail
Contact your local helpdesk via e-mail:
Area office E-mail address

China TeklaStructures.Support.CHI@Tekla.com
Finland TeklaStructures.Support.FI@Tekla.com
France TeklaStructures.Support.FR@Tekla.com
Germany TeklaStructures.Support.GER@Tekla.com
TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 1

Preface
Area office E-mail address
Japan TeklaStructures.Support.JPN@Tekla.com
Malaysia TeklaStructures.Support.MY@Tekla.com
Middle East TeklaStructures.Support.ME@Tekla.com
Sweden TeklaStructures.Support.SWE@Tekla.com
UK TeklaStructures.Support.UK@Tekla.com
US TeklaStructures.Support.US@Tekla.com
If you believe you have discovered a problem with this software, please report it
to your Tekla Structures Reseller using the maintenance request form provided at
Help > Tekla on the Web > Maintenance request....
Please send any comments or suggestions about Tekla Structures documentation
to BetC_Documentation@tekla.com.
Conventions used in this guide

Typefaces We use different typefaces for different items in this guide. In most cases the
meaning is obvious from the context. If you are not sure what a certain typeface
represents, you can check it here.
• Any text that you see in the user interface appears in bold. Items such
as window and dialog box titles, field and button names, combo box
options, and list box items are displayed in this typeface.
• New terms are in italic bold when they appear in the current context
for the first time.
• All the text you enter yourself appears in "quotation marks".
• We use italics for emphasis.
• Extracts of Tekla Structures’s program code, HTML, or other mate-
rial that you would normally edit in a text editor, appears in mono-
spaced Courier font.
• Program names, such as functions, environment variables, and
parameters, appear in Courier bold.
• Filenames and folder paths appear in Arial.
Noteboxes We use several types of noteboxes, marked by different icons. Their functions are
shown below:
A tip might introduce a shortcut, or suggest alternative ways of

doing things. A tip never contains information that is absolutely
necessary.
2 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Preface
A note draws attention to details that you might easily overlook.
It can also point you to other information in this guide that you
might find useful.
You should always read very important notes and warnings,

like this one. They will help you avoid making serious mistakes,
or wasting your time.
This symbol indicates advanced or highly technical informa-

tion that is usually of interest only to advanced or technically-
oriented readers. You are never required to understand this kind
of information.
Related guides
Tekla Structures includes a comprehensive help system in a series of online
books. You will also receive a printed installation guide with your setup CD.
• Modeling Manual
How to create a physical model.
• Analysis Manual
How to create loads and run structural analysis.
• Detailing Manual
How to create reinforcement, connections, and details.
• Drawing Manual
How to create and edit drawings.
• System Manual
Covers advanced features and how to maintain the Tekla Structures environ-
ment.
• TplEd User’s Guide
How to create and edit report and drawing templates.
• SymEd User’s Guide
How to use the SymEd graphical interface to manipulate symbols.
• Installation Guide
Printed booklet explaining how to install Tekla Structures.

Preface
Organization
This guide is divided into the following chapters and appendices:
Chapter 1: Getting Started

Explains basics of Tekla Structures connections.
Chapter 2: Steel Connection Properties

Explains common properties of Tekla Structures steel connections.
Chapter 3: Concrete Detailing

Explains how to create concrete connections, details, and parts.
Chapter 4: Reinforcement
Explains how to create reinforcement components and single reinforcing bars.
Chapter 5: Built-up Components

Explains the built-up components that create different built-up beams, columns,
and frames.
Chapter 6: Custom Components

Explains how to define your own connections and details.
Appendix B: Connection Map

Contains illustrations of Tekla Structures connections, grouped according to
framing and connection type.

Preface
1 Getting Started
Introduction Once you have created a frame of parts in your Tekla Structures model, you will
need to connect those parts to complete the model. Tekla Structures contains a
wide range of components that you can use to automate the process of creating a
model.
This chapter explains the basics about components - what they are and how to
create them using Tekla Structures. We will begin with the basic concepts, fol-
lowed by a general description of components properties. Finally, we will show
you how to use components in practice.
Contents This chapter is divided into the following topics:
• Basics (p. 5)
• Using components (p. 14)
• Defining parts and plates (p. 18)
• Defining bolts and welds (p. 22)
• AutoConnection (p. 31)
• AutoDefaults (p. 34)
1.1 Basics
Introduction 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.

Getting Started
Benefits The main benefits of working with components are:
1. You can save the properties of a component using an easily-identifiable
name and keep it for future use. For example, you could save the properties
of a W12x65 column base plate connection as W12x65.j*, and use it for sev-
eral projects.
2. When you modify the size of a profile, Tekla Structures automatically modi-
fies the relevant components.
3. When you use Copy or Mirror, Tekla Structures automatically includes all the
associated components.
Component concepts
Components are tools that automate tasks and group objects so that Tekla Struc-
tures treats them as a single unit. Components adapt to changes in the model, so
that Tekla Structures automatically modifies a component if you modify the parts
it connects.
This is an example of how to apply a connection:
1. Pick the main part
To see information
about the connection,
click the connection
symbol
2. Pick the secondary

part.
The connection auto-

matically creates the
required parts, fittings,
bolts, etc.

Getting Started
Component types Components have the following subtypes:
Item Description Examples Symbol

Connections Connect two or more parts, and Two-sided
create all the required objects clip angle,
(cuts, fittings, parts, bolts, bolted gusset.
welds etc.).
Macros Automatically create and Stairs, frames
assemble the parts to build a
structure, but does not connect
the structure to existing parts.
Macros can include connec-
tions and details.
Details Add a detail to a main part. A Stiffeners,
detail is only connected to one base plates,
part. When you create a detail, lifting hooks
Tekla Structures prompts you
to pick a part, followed by a
point to locate the detail.
System and Tekla Structures contains hundreds of system components by default. You can
custom also create your own components, custom components. They have following
components sybtypes:
• connection
• detail
• part
• seam
See also Exploding components (p. 177)
Component catalog
Tekla Structures contains a component catalog, where you can:
• search for components using name, number, or keywords
• start creating a component
• view component properties
• collect your own favorites
• define keywords for components
• import/export components

Getting Started
To open the component catalog, use the keyboard shortcut Crtl + F, or click the
Search component icon on the component toolbar (shown below).
Example This example shows the search results for the search term "Part":
To sort a column,
click the header cell.
System compo-
nents have blue
symbols.
Custom compo-
nents have yel- Double-click the name to
low symbols. set the properties and
create the component.
Symbols The first column in the catalog indicates the component types with following
symbols:
Symbol Component type

System connections
System detail
System macro
Custom connections and seams
Custom details
Custom parts

Getting Started
Pop-up menu Right-click the list to open a pop-up menu containing the following commands:
• Edit keywords
• Add to Favorites
• Properties
• Import
• Export
See also Managing custom components (p. 209)
Component toolbars
Introduction You will find all the available components on the component toolbars, located to
the right of the main Tekla Structures window. If the toolbars are not visible,
click Window > Toolbars > Components to display them.
Usage This is an example of toolbars and the functions they contain:
Initiates the last

connection you
used Opens compo-
nent catalog
Use the arrows to flip
through the toolbars
to check which com-
ponents are available
Toolbar num-
ber or symbol
Component
icons
Component dialog box

The component dialog box is in two sections.
Upper part You use the upper section of the dialog box to save and load predefined settings,
see Save, Load, Save as, Help in the Modeling manual. For some components,
it also contains buttons for accessing the bolt, weld and DSTV dialog boxes.

Getting Started
For information on handling the saved properties, see Component properties
files in the System manual.
Tabs
The green symbol indi-

cates the correct direction
for the connection or
detail. Tekla Structures
uses the automatic
property value
Tekla Struc-
tures uses the
default prop-
erty value
The parts you select The parts the compo-
appear in blue. nent creates appear in
yellow
Lower part The lower section of the dialog box is divided into tabs. This is where you define
the properties of the parts and bolts that the component creates. The most com-
mon tabs that appear here are:
• Picture illustrates the component. It shows just one example, but you
can usually use one component in many situations.
• Parts is where you define the properties of the parts the component
creates
• Parameters is where you set parameters to control the component (for
example, for stiffeners, end plates, chamfers, etc.)
• Bolts is where you define the number of bolts and their edge distances
• General is where you define the direction of the connection or detail
and AutoDefaults rules

Getting Started
Picking order
To create a connection you need to pick existing parts or points. The default pick-
ing order for a connection is:
1. Main part
2. Secondary part(s)
3. If there is more than one secondary part, click the middle mouse button to
finish selecting parts and create the connection.
Some connection dialog boxes illustrate the picking order for parts using num-
bers, as shown below:
Pick the parts in the

order shown in the
Picture
Details The default picking order for a detail is:

1. Main part.
2. A point in the main part to show the location of the detail.
Macros The default picking order for a macro is:

1. Pick one to three point(s) to show the location of the objects the macro cre-
ates.
Up direction
The up direction of a connection or a detail indicates how the connection is
rotated around the secondary part, relative to the current work plane. If there are
no secondary parts, Tekla Structures rotates the connection around the primary
part. The options are: +x, -x, +y, -y, +z, -z.

Getting Started
The Picture tab in the dialog box shows the up direction Tekla Structures will use.
Tekla Structures also indicates the up direction in the connection symbol:
Manually defining To manually define the up direction:

up direction
1. Double-click the connection symbol to open the connection dialog box.
2. On the General tab, change the x, y, or z direction. Try positive directions
first.
3. Click Modify to use the new values.
Automatic and default properties

Some connection dialog boxes contain list boxes that show property options as
graphics. You can select system defaults, AutoDefaults, or have Tekla Structures
automatically set the properties.
System default If you leave fields in connection dialog boxes blank, Tekla Structures uses the
properties system default properties. Manual entries, default, automatic and properties in
the joints.def file, all override these system defaults. You cannot change system
default properties.

Getting Started
Default and
automatic Icon Desciption More information
properties
To have Tekla Structures use a default Using AutoDefaults
property in a connection, select the (p. 34)
option marked with this symbol.
If you use AutoDefaults for the connec-
tion, Tekla Structures uses the property
defined in the AutoDefaults rules. If
you are not using AutoDefaults, Tekla
Structures creates the connection using
the system default property.
To have Tekla Structures automatically
determine which option to use for a
property, select the option marked with
this symbol.
Example, Boomerang bracing connec-
tion (60):
Use the Automatic option

on the Gussetbolt1 tab to have Tekla
Structures determine how the clip angle
is connected to the gusset plate and
beam.
General tab
All connections and details have the same General tab. It contains the following
properties:
Field Description More information

Up direction Rotates the connection around Up direction (p. 11)
the secondary part or detail
around the main part.
The fields next to the image
define rotation angle around
the x- and y-axis of the sec-
ondary. The upper one is for
y- and the lower one for x.
Locked Prevents modifications. Locking objects

Getting Started
Class A number given to all parts Colors
the connection creates. You
can use class to define the
color of parts in the model.
Connection code Identifies the connection.
Tekla Structures can display
this connection code in con-
nection marks in drawings.
AutoDefaults Automatically sets connection Using AutoDefaults
Rule Group properties according to the (p. 34)
selected rule group. To switch
AutoDefaults off, select the
rule group None.
AutoConnection Automatically switches the
Rule Group connection to another accord-
ing to the selected rule group.
1.2 Using components

Introduction This section explains how to use components. It also includes an example.
Creating components
You create different types of component in different ways. For example, you
pick existing parts to indicate which members a connection or a detail is
attached to. You need to pick points to indicate the location or length of a detail
or a macro. See also Picking order (p. 11).
When you create connections, Tekla Structures prompts you to pick the primary
part (the part secondary parts connect to), then the secondary part(s). For an
example of using a connection, see Example (p. 15).

Getting Started
Status Tekla Structures uses different-colored connection symbols to show the status of
connections and details, as shown below:
Color Status Tip

Green Connection created suc-
cessfully.
Yellow Connection created, but Often occurs when bolts or
has problems. holes have an edge distance
less than the default value for
that connection.
Red Connection failed. A common reason is that the
up direction is not appropri-
ate. See Up direction (p. 11).
Example
When applying a component that you are unfamiliar with, accept the default
properties and apply the component. Then look to see what needs to be modified.
This is quicker than trying to set the values for the component before seeing what
the component actually creates.
This is an example of how to generate an end plate connection. The End plate
(144) connection connects two beams, or a beam to a column, using a bolted end
plate.
To create the end plate connection:
1. In the Component catalog (p. 7), type "144" and click Search.
2. Double-click the End plate (144) line. Tekla Structures displays the compo-
nent dialog box and starts the End plate (144) command.
3. Tekla Structures prompts you to pick the main part (column) and then the
secondary part (beam). Tekla Structures creates the connection.

Getting Started
4. Select the next main part or interrupt the command.
If you need to change the number of bolts or plate dimensions, for example, you
need to modify the component. For more information, see Modifying compo-
nents (p. 16).
If you use incorrect properties, Tekla Structures may fail to create the component
(see Creating components (p. 14)).
Modifying components
To modify a component, double-click the component symbol in the model. The
component dialog box appears. This is where you modify the component proper-
ties.
If you have Select component swicthed on , you do not

have to pick component symbol, but you can just pick any
object belonging to a component. This is the only method for
selecting custom parts, because they do not have any symbol.
You can also indicate which connections and details are affected by the modifica-
tions:
• Modify connection type: If you have selected several connections
details, clicking the Modify button modifies all the selected connec-
tions and details irrespective of their type. If the connection type is
not the same as in the dialog box, Tekla Structures changes the con-
nection type.
• Ignore other types: Tekla Structures only modifies connections and
details of the type shown in dialog box.

Getting Started
Conceptual components
Conceptual components help create a smooth workflow from engineer to
detailer. Engineers do not have to consider fabrication details, they simply create
conceptual components that look real. The detailer then takes the conceptual
components and creates fully-detailed components that include all the informa-
tion needed for fabrication, such as assemblies, cast units, and reinforcing bars.
The Tekla Structures configuration you have determines which components you
can create:
Type Symbol Configuration Description

Conceptual Basic Design Conceptual component does
not create assembly, cast
Standard Design
unit, or reinforcing bars.
Engineering
The dialog box is same as in
Rectan- detailed component, but
gular does not contain fields for
part and assembly positions.
Detailed Steel Detailing Fully detailed component
contains part and assembly
Concrete Detailing
numbering fields and creates
Full Detailing needed assemblies, cast
Round units and reinforcing bars.
Changing You cannot create conceptual components using the Steel Detailing, Concrete
component type Detailing, or Full Detailing configurations, but they do include a tool that you
can use to change individual conceptual components to detailed components.
The Basic Design, Standard Design, and Engineering configurations also include
a tool to change individual detailed components into conceptual components.
To change a conceptual component to a detailed component:
1. Select the component symbol.
2. Click Tools > Change to detailing component.
Changing part properties, such as changing the size of the main part, do not auto-
matically change the component type. So someone using thte Basic Design con-
figuration can change the model without automatically changing detailed
components back to conceptual ones.

Getting Started
Tips on working with components
No component If you have difficulty applying a component, check the status bar for prompts.
created For example, you may need to click the middle mouse button to stop selecting
parts, before Tekla Structures creates the component.
Many parts found If you are applying a connection that only allows for one secondary member, you
may see the message Many parts found on the status bar. This means that Tekla
Structures cannot determine which parts to connect. You may have several parts
in the same location, or the view may be set too deep.
Switch parts on/ If the component does not create the parts you need by default (for example,
off stiffener plates), look for a switch to turn them on. If there is no switch, try enter-
ing a value in the thickness field for that part (for example, on the Stiffeners tab).
If the component creates parts you do not need, look for the switch to turn them
off. If there is no switch, enter a zero (0) in the thickness field for that part.
Default: Tekla Structures creates stiffeners or uses

value retrieved from AutoDefaults.
Automatic: Tekla Structures creates or omits stiffen-

ers depending on the situation in the model.
Tekla Structures does not create stiffeners.
Tekla Structures creates stiffeners.
Entering valid You need to specify profiles for some components. If a component fails, try
profiles entering a valid profile.
1.3 Defining parts and plates

Use the Parts tab to define the parts that Tekla Structures creates when you use a
component.

Getting Started
Using the dialog box
Some components list all parts on one tab, others list parts on separate tabs as
shown in the following examples.
One Parts tab Where there is one tab, the label is usually Parts or Plates.
Several Parts Plates can also appear on separate tabs. For example, in connection 56, Corner
tabs tube gusset, the parts appear on both the Gusset and Tube diag tabs.
Dimensioning parts
Use the Parts tabs to dimension specific part types in components.
To delete a part, enter zero (0) in the t (thickness) field.

Getting Started
Plates
Enter the following dimensions for plates:
Dimension Description
t Plate thickness
b Plate width
h Plate height
You do not have to enter these dimensions for every component type, as Tekla
Structures determines the plate shape differently for different components. For
example, in end plate connections, Tekla Structures calculates width and height
using the number of bolts and bolt edge distances. Click Help in a component dia-
log box to check which dimensions you need to enter.
Beams
To specify a library or parametric profile to use for beams:
• Enter the profile name.
• Or click , and select a profile from the profile catalog.
The profile must exist in the profile catalog.
Part position number

Use the Pos_no field to enter the part position number for each part the compo-
nent creates. This overrides the settings on the Setup > Options > Preferences tab.
Specify a prefix and a start number, as shown below.
Prefix
Start number
Some component dialog boxes have a second row of Pos_no fields for you to
enter the assembly position number.

Getting Started
Using the Preferences tab
To set the default prefix and start number for all the parts that components create,
click Setup > Options > Preferences tab. You define different prefixes and start
numbers according to the part’s relationship to other parts in the component.
Separate the prefix and part number using the \ character (for example, p\1).
Prefix Part number

Getting Started
Defining materials
To define the materials for the parts that components create, click against the
Material field. Tekla Structures opens the Select material dialog box. Click a mate-
rial type, then click the material to use for the part.
Using the Preferences tab

To set the default part material for the parts that components create, click Setup >
Options > Preferences tab > Part material. Tekla Structures uses this default if you
leave the Material field blank in the component dialog box when you apply the
component.
1.4 Defining bolts and welds

Use the Bolts or Welds tabs to define which bolts, assemblies, and welds to use in
specific components.

Getting Started
Using the Bolts tab
This illustration shows the properties you can set in the Bolts tab of component
dialog boxes:
Slotted hole Slotted to create

dimensions slotted hole in part
Check bolt com-

ponents to
include (bolt,
washer, screw)
Position of
Shank length
bolt group:
protruding
from the nut
Vertical
Horizontal Bolt spacing -

vertical
Bolt group Number of bolts
pattern
Enter bolt order
number of bolt
Number of bolts to delete
Bolt spacing (horizontal)
Edge distance

Getting Started
Defining bolts
Use the following fields on the Bolts tab to specify the type of bolts to use in indi-
vidual components:
Dialog box text Description

Bolt size Must be defined in the bolt assembly catalog. See also The
bolt and bolt assembly catalogs in the online help.
Bolt standard The bolt standard to use inside the component. Must be
defined in the bolt assembly catalog.
Tolerance Gap between bolt and hole.
Thread in mat Indicate if the thread can be inside bolted parts when using
bolts with a shaft. Has no effect if using full-threaded
bolts.
Site/Workshop Location where bolts should be attached.
Increasing bolt length

To allow for additional material thickness, increase the length of the bolt on the
Bolts tab. For example, you could use this for painted parts.
Enter extra
bolt length
Tekla Structures uses this value in bolt length calculation. See Bolt length calcu-
lation in the online help.
Creating holes
To only create a hole, deselect all the components on the illustration in the Bolts
tab.

Getting Started
Number of bolts and spacing
Use the Bolts tab to specify the number of bolts and bolt spacing, both horizon-
tally and vertically.
Enter the number of bolts in the shorter field, and the spacing between bolts in
the longer field, as shown below. Use a space to separate bolt spacing values.
Enter a value for each space between bolts.
Example For example, if there are 3 bolts, enter 2 values.
Number of Bolt spacing

bolts
The settings above result in this bolt group layout:
Bolt group orientation

Some connections include the following options on the Bolts tab to orientate bolt
groups:
Option Description
Square.
Staggered in the direction of the secondary part.
Sloped in the direction of the secondary part.

Getting Started
Bolt group pattern
For some components you can select different bolt group patterns. You have the
following options:
Option
Edge distance
Edge distance is the distance from the center of a bolt to the edge of the part.
Enter top, bottom, left, and right edge distances on the Bolts tab. A dimension
line on the illustration shows each dimension.
Edge distance
dimension line
Enter edge distances here

Getting Started
Bolt position
In the list box on the Bolts tab, select an option to indicate how to measure
dimensions for vertical and horizontal bolt position.
Then enter the dimension in the fields indicated below. If you leave this field
blank, Tekla Structures uses a system default value.
Enter dimensions
Measure dimension
from....
Vertical bolt position

Use these options to indicate how Tekla Structures measures vertical dimensions:
Option Dimension from Illustration

Top Upper edge of secondary part to
uppermost bolt.
Middle Centerline of bolts to centerline of

secondary part.
Bottom Lower edge of secondary part to

lowest bolt.

Getting Started
Horizontal bolt position
Use these options to indicate how Tekla Structures measures horizontal dimen-
sions:
Option Dimension from Illustration

Left Left edge of secondary part to far
left bolt.
Middle Centerline of bolts.
Right Right edge of secondary part to far

right bolt.
Defining slotted holes

To define slotted holes in components:
1. Open the component properties dialog box and click on the Bolts tab. Differ-
ent bolt groups may appear on different tabs in different dialog boxes.
2. Set Hole type to Slotted.
3. Select which parts have slotted holes from the Slots in list box. Select No to
create round holes.
4. To shape slotted holes, enter the x or y dimensions of the hole. To produce a
round hole, enter zero (0) for both dimensions.

Getting Started
Slotted hole length =
x or y dimension +
Bolt size +
Tolerance
For some components you can specify which parts have slotted
holes using the Bolts tab. For example, Clip angle (141), Shear
plate simple (146).
You can also use the Bolt command to modify bolt groups after creating compo-
nents.
Deleting bolts
To delete bolts from a bolt group:
1. Double click the component symbol to open the component dialog box.
2. Go to the Bolts tab.
3. Check Delete.
4. Enter the bolt number(s) of the bolt(s) to delete, separated by a space. Bolt
numbers run left to right and top down.
5. Click Modify to change the selected component.
6. Click OK to exit the component dialog box.

Getting Started
Example You start with this bolt group:
1 2
3 4
5 6
You enter the following bolt numbers:
The bolt group now looks like this:
Defining bolt assemblies

On the illustration on the Bolts tab, check the pieces to use in the bolt assembly
(bolt, washers, and nuts).
To change the bolt assemblies in the current component:

1. Click the component symbol to select it.
2. Check the pieces to use.
3. Check Effect in modify.
4. Click the Modify button.

Getting Started
Welds
To define the properties of the welds Tekla Structures uses in a component, click
the Welds button in the component properties dialog box. Tekla Structures dis-
plays the appropriate weld dialog box.
The illustration identifies each weld using a number. For each weld, use row 1 to
define the arrow side of the weld, and row 2 for the other side.
See also Welds in the online help
1.5 AutoConnection
Introduction Use AutoConnection to automatically select and apply connections with pre-
defined properties to selected parts. Use AutoConnection to have Tekla Struc-
tures automatically create similar connections for similar framing conditions.
Using AutoConnection
Use AutoConnection to have Tekla Structures automatically create connections
using a predefined set of rules, or rule group.

Getting Started
Creating To create connections using AutoConnection:
connections
1. Pick the parts to connect.
2. Click Detailing > AutoConnection... to display the AutoConnection dialog
box.
3. Select a rule group in the first list box on the Rule groups tab as shown
below.
Rule group for

AutoConnection
Rule group for

AutoDefaults
4. Click the Create connections button.

When you use AutoConnection, Tekla Structures ignores the properties in the
connection dialog boxes and creates connections using the properties defined in
the rule group. Tekla Structures does not modify existing connections.
You can change the properties of connections you create using AutoConnection.
Additional Use the options on the Advanced tab to indicate which rule groups you want to
options use for each Framing condition (beam to beam web, beam to beam flange, etc.).
You also have the option not to apply a rule group, or to apply a specific connec-
tion.

Getting Started
Example You can use a rule group for all framing types other than beam to column flange,
and indicate a particular connection to use for that framing type.
Options Use Connection selection to indicate your preferences for each framing condition.
You have the following options:
Option Result
None Tekla Structures does not create a connection.
AutoConnection Tekla Structures applies the connection defined in
the rule group you have indicated in the first list
box on the Rule groups tab.
A named connection Click Select to pick from a list of available connec-
tions. Click a connection, then OK.
Tekla Structures creates the connection you specify
using the default properties. See Automatic and
default properties (p. 12).
Use Parameters selection to indicate which connection properties you want to

use. The options are:
Option Result
AutoDefaults Tekla Structures applies the properties of the rule
group you have indicated in the first list box on
Rule groups tab.
No AutoDefaults Tekla Structures applies the default connection
properties. See Automatic and default properties
(p. 12).

Getting Started
1.6 AutoDefaults
Introduction Use AutoDefaults to automatically apply connections. When you use AutoDe-
faults, Tekla Structures automatically creates connections with predefined prop-
erties.
For example, you can use AutoDefaults to automatically adjust the thickness of
each base plate you create, according to the primary part profile. If the primary
part profile changes, Tekla Structures will also automatically adjust the thickness
of the base plate.
Using AutoDefaults
With AutoDefaults you can have Tekla Structures apply connection properties
using a predefined set of rules. You can use AutoDefaults together with Auto-
Connection to define connection properties, or separately to define the properties
of a single connection.
To use AutoDefaults for a single connection:
1. Open the connection dialog box.
2. On the General tab, select a rule group (the rule group cannot be None).
3. On all the tabs, set the fields that you want AutoDefaults to override to
Default by selecting the options marked with the arrow symbol ).
4. Click Apply to create the connection using AutoDefaults.
To quickly set all the fields in a dialog box to Default, load

<Defaults> in the connection dialog box.

Getting Started
How to use AutoDefaults effectively
Use default values when you create a connection, then use AutoDefaults to mod-
ify the properties.
If you manually modify connection properties after using AutoDefaults, Tekla
Structures will not automatically update the connection properties, even if Auto-
Defaults is active. AutoDefaults does not change connection properties that have
been modified. It only modifies connection properties in fields containing the
default properties.
For example, you have manually set a base plate thickness of 20 mm in the Base
plate dialog box of a connection. AutoDefaults is active and sets plate thickness
according to the primary part profile. If you modify the primary part profile,
Tekla Structures does not update the base plate thickness. It remains at 20 mm.
Checking AutoDefaults properties

To check the properties AutoDefaults has applied to a connection:
1. Double-click the connection symbol to open the connection dialog box.
2. In the list box in the upper left corner of the dialog box, select <AutoDe-
faults>.

Getting Started
3. Click Load. Tekla Structures shows the applied properties in the fields. You
can also see all the combined properties used for that connection.
Checking AutoDefaults rules

You can check which rules AutoDefaults has used for a particular connection.
1. Select the connection symbol and right-click.
2. Select Inquire.
Tekla Structures shows the rule group and rule sets that the connection passed.
You can also see all the properties files used for that connection.

Getting Started
2 Steel Connection
Properties
Introduction Once you have created a frame of parts in your Tekla Structures model, you will
need to connect those parts to complete the model.
This chapter explains the properties that are common to many different Tekla
Structures connections and details.
• Notch (p. 37)
• Haunch (p. 44)
• Stiffeners (p. 46)
• Beam cut (p. 50)
• Doubler plate (p. 53)
• Angle box (p. 55)
2.1 Notch
Use the options on the Notch tab to automatically create notches for the second-
ary beam, and control the notch properties. The Notch tab has two sections:
• automatic properties (top section)
• manual properties (bottom section).
Automatic and manual properties work independently of each other.

Steel Connection Properties
Automatic To switch on automatic notching, select an option in the notch shape list box. The
notching fields on the Notch tab are:

Notch shape. Turns auto- Notch shape (p. 39)
matic notching on and off.
Notch size. Notch size (p. 40)
Flange cut shape. Flange cut shape

(p. 40)
Notch dimension rounding. Notch dimension

rounding (p. 41)
Notch position. Notch position

(p. 42)
Notch chamfer. Notch chamfer

(p. 43)
Automatic notching options affect both the top and bottom

flange.
Manual notching Use manual notching when a part that does not belong to the connection clashes
with the secondary part. When you use manual notching, connections create cuts
using the values you enter in the fields on the Notch tab. You can use different
values for the top and bottom flange. Use the following fields to define manual
notches:

Side of flange notch. Side of flange notch
(p. 43)
Flange notch shape. Flange notch shape

(p. 44)

Field Description
The cut dimensions of the top and
A
bottom flange in the dx and dy
B direction. Enter values for options in
the flange notch shape list box, if
possible.
The gap between the notch edge and
B the primary beam flange is equal to
the primary web rounding. The
notch height is then rounded up to
A the nearest 5 mm.
Flange notch depth dimension.
Notch shape
Use the following options to define how Tekla Structures notches the secondary
beam:
Option Description More information

AutoDefaults can change this Automatic and
option. default properties
(p. 12)
Notches the secondary beam
with the cuts square to the
main beam web.
with the cuts square to the
secondary beam.
with the dy cut square to the
main beam, and the dx cut
square to the secondary
beam.
Turns off automatic notch-
ing.

Notch size
Use the following options to define notch size.

(p. 12)
Tekla Structures measures
the notch size from the edge
of the main beam flange, and
from underneath the top
flange of the main beam.
Tekla Structures measures
the notch size from the cen-
terline of the main beam and
from the top flange of the
main beam.
Enter the horizontal and vertical dimensions for these options in the fields shown
below:
Flange cut shape

Use these options to define the shape of flange cut.

(p. 12)
Cuts the secondary beam
flange parallel to the main
beam.
Cuts the secondary beam
flange square.

Notch dimension rounding
Use these options to indicate if Tekla Structures should round up notch dimen-
sions. Even if this setting is active, Tekla Structures only rounds up dimensions
when necessary.

(p. 12)
Tekla Structures does not
round notch dimensions.
Switches on notch dimension

rounding.
Tekla Structures rounds up the dimension to the nearest multiple of the value you
enter. For example, if the actual dimension is 51 and you enter a round-up value
of 10, Tekla Structures rounds the dimension up to 60.
Enter the increment for horizontal and vertical dimension rounding in the follow-
ing fields:

Example This example shows the effect of using rounding:
Before: Tekla Structures applies these horizontal

and vertical rounding values:
After:
Notch position
Use the following options to indicate the horizontal position of the cut:

(p. 12)
Cut below the flange.
Cut above the flange.

Notch chamfer
Use the following options to define notch chamfering:

(p. 12)
Does not chamfer the notch.
Creates the notch with a line

chamfer.
Chamfers the notch.
Enter a radius for the chamfer in the field shown below:
Side of flange notch

Use the following options to indicate which side of the beam flange Tekla Struc-
tures notches:

(p. 12)
Notches both sides of the
flange.
Notches the near side of the

flange.
Notches the far side of the

flange.

Flange notch shape
Use the following options to indicate the notch shape in the beam flange.

(p. 12)
Tekla Structures removes the
entire flange of the second-
ary as far back as you spec-
ify. The default depth for the
notch is twice the thickness
of the secondary flange. The
cut always runs the entire
width of the secondary
flange.
Chamfers the flange. If you Manual notching
do not enter a horizontal (p. 38)
dimension, Tekla Structures
creates a chamfer of 45
degrees.
Cuts the flange with default Manual notching
values unless you enter val- (p. 38)
ues in fields A and B.
Does not cut the flange.
Cuts the flange according to Manual notching

the value in field A to make (p. 38)
it flush with the web.
Cuts the flange according to Manual notching
the values in fields A and B. (p. 38)
2.2 Haunch
You can use several options to define haunch plates. The Haunch tab has two sec-
tions that control the following:
• Creating haunch plates
• Haunch plate chamfer.

Creating haunch plates
Use the Create plate field to define when Tekla Structures should create haunch
plates. The options are:

Default Same as the Auto option.
Auto When a clip angle crosses the
secondary beam flange(s),
Tekla Structures automati-
cally creates top or bottom
haunch plates, or both, as
needed.
Yes Always creates top and bot- To create a single plate,
tom haunch plates. enter zero in the thickness
(t) field for the plate you
do not need (top or bottom
plate).
No Does not create haunch
plates.
Enter values in the following fields, for the top and bottom plates, if needed:
• t - thickness
• b - width
• h - height
• Pos_no - Part position number. Enter the part prefix in the first field, the part
number in the second field.
• Material - Click ... to select a material from a material catalog
• Name - The part name, for example TOP_PLATE

Haunch plate chamfer
To define haunch plate line chamfer properties, enter horizontal and vertical
dimensions for the top and bottom plates, as indicated below:
Top plate line

chamfer
Vertical Horizontal
dimensions dimensions
Bottom plate line

chamfer
2.3 Stiffeners
Use the following fields to define stiffeners. (These fields do not appear in the
dialog box of every connection that creates stiffeners):

Creates stiffeners. Creating stiffeners
(p. 47)
Select chamfered or square Stiffener type (p. 47)

stiffeners.
Stiffener size.
Stiffener orientation. Stiffener orientation

(p. 49)
Stiffener position. Stiffener position

(p. 49)

Stiffener chamfer.
Gap between stiffener and

the bottom flange of beam.
Creating stiffeners
Use the following options to define when Tekla Structures creates stiffeners:

(p. 12)
The Automatic option. Tekla
Structures creates stiffeners
when necessary.
Tekla Structures does not
create stiffeners.
Tekla Structures creates stiff-

eners.
Stiffener type
You can use several options to define stiffener type. The Stiffeners tab may con-
tain two types of options, to define:
• Whether the stiffeners are chamfered or square
• Stiffener size.

Chamfered or Use the following options to create chamfered or square stiffeners:
square
(p. 12)
Creates line chamfers.
Creates square stiffener

plates leaving a gap for the
primary web rounding.
Creates line chamfers.
Stiffener size Use the following options for stiffener size:

(p. 12)
Creates a full stiffener of the
same height as the web of the
main part.
Tekla Structures determines
the size based on the size of
the shear plate.
Tekla Structures attempts to
keep the bottom edges of the
stiffener plate and shear plate
level, if possible.
Leaves a gap between the
stiffener plate and the bottom
flange of the main part bot-
tom.
Does not create stiffeners.

Stiffener orientation
Use the following options to define stiffener orientation:

(p. 12)
Creates stiffeners in the
direction of the secondary
part.
Creates stiffeners perpendic-
ular to the main part.
Stiffener position
Enter the following dimensions to define the position of the stiffener:
B B
B B
A - The gap between the main part web and the stiffener plate.
B - The vertical location of the near side or far side stiffener. Enter positive or
negative dimensions to move the stiffener.
By default, Tekla Structures positions the edges of the stiffener level with the
flanges of the secondary part.

2.4 Beam cut
Use the options on the Beam cut tab to define rat holes, flange cuts, and end prep-
aration for beams. You can use different values for top and bottom flanges. The
Beam cut tab contains the following fields:

Rat hole. Rat holes (p. 51)
Flange cut. Flange cut (p. 51)
End preparation. End preparation

(p. 52)
Field Description
A A: The vertical dimension of the top
and bottom rat hole.
C
B: Gap between the web of the sec-
ondary part and the main part. Tekla
B Structures adds the value you enter
here to the gap you enter on the Pic-
C ture tab.
C: The horizontal dimension of the

A top and bottom rat hole.
D D: Gap between the secondary part
flange and the main part. Tekla
Structures adds the value you enter
here to the gap you enter on the Pic-
ture tab.

Rat holes
These options control rat hole settings.

(p. 12)
Creates a round rat hole.
Creates a square rat hole.
Creates a rat hole with a line

cut.
Creates a round rat hole with

a radius that you specify in
this field:
.
Creates a cone-shaped rat
hole with a radius that you
specify in this field:
Flange cut
Use the following options to define flange cuts:

(p. 12)

Does not cut the flange.
Cuts the flange.
End preparation
Use the following options to define end preparation:

(p. 12)
The Automatic option.
Prepares both top and bottom
flange.
Does not prepare the beam
end.
Prepares both top and bottom

flange.
Prepares the top flange.
Prepares the bottom flange.

2.5 Doubler plate
Doubler plates are used to strengthen the web of the main part. Tekla Structures
does not create them by default. Use the following fields to create and define
doubler plates:

Creates doubler plates. Creating doubler
plates (p. 54)
Defines the shape of the edge Doubler plate edge

of the doubler plate. shape (p. 55)
General settings
Use the following fields to determine the location of the doubler plate in the web,
and control plug weld hole settings.
A: Edge distance from the

A
face of the column flange.
B: Plug weld hole location
from the edge of the doubler
E
plate.
B C: Number of holes.
D: Hole spacing.
C D
E: Top edge of doubler plate
in relation to the top of the
B secondary part.
B B
C D

Plug weld hole size
Enter the following dimensions to define the size of plug weld holes:
Hole diameter.
Slot length.
Slot width.
Creating doubler plates

Use the following options to define if Tekla Structures creates doubler plates and
where they are located:

AutoDefaults can change this
option. By default, Tekla
Structures does not create
doubler plates.
Does not create doubler
plates.
Creates a doubler plate to the

near side.
Creates a doubler plate to the

far side.
Creates doubler plates to

both sides of the web.

Doubler plate edge shape
Use the following options to define the shape of the edge of the doubler plate:

option.
Creates a bevelled
plate.Enter the angle of the
bevel in this field:
Creates a square plate.
2.6 Angle box

The purpose of seat angles is to carry loads from the secondary part. Only the
Angle profile box (170) connection and Angle profile box (1040) detail create seat
angles by default.
Seat angles can be located to the top, bottom or both flanges of the secondary
part. The seat angle can be stiffened, and bolted or welded to the main and sec-
ondary parts.
Use the following fields to create seat angles and define their properties:

Seat angle position. Seat angle position
(p. 56)
Seat angle orientation. Seat angle orienta-

tion (p. 57)
Seat angle rotation. Seat angle rotation

(p. 57)

Seat angle attachment. Seat angle attach-
ment (p. 58)
Stiffener type. Seat angle stiffener

type (p. 58)
Stiffener chamfer type.
Bottom plate chamfer.
Notching.
Middle stiffener position.
End stiffener position.
Seat angle position

Use the following options to define the position of seat angles:

option.
Does not create seat angles.
Creates a seat angle on the

top flange.
Creates a seat angle under

the bottom flange.
Creates a seat angle to both

the top and the bottom
flange.

Seat angle orientation
Use the following options to define if the longer leg of the angle profile connects
to the main or the secondary part:

option.
Connects the longer leg of

the angle profile to the sec-
ondary part.
the angle profile to the main
part.
the angle profile to the part
where bolts reach further
from the angle corner.
Seat angle rotation

Use the following options to define seat angle rotation. The Angle profile box
(170) connection also includes an option to use a plate as the seat instead of the
angle profile:

option.
Does not rotate the angle

profile.
Rotates the angle profile hor-

izontally 90 degrees.
To stiffen the rotated angle,
select the Middle option in
the Middle stiffener position
list box.
Uses a bottom plate as the
seat instead of the angle pro-
file.

Seat angle attachment
Use the following options to define how the angle profile is attached to the main
and secondary parts:

option.
Bolts the angle profile to

both the main and secondary
parts.
Welds the angle profile to the
main part and bolts it to the
secondary.
Bolts the angle profile to the
main part and welds it to the
secondary.
Welds the angle profile to
both the main and the sec-
ondary parts.
Seat angle stiffener type

Use the following options to define the seat angle stiffener:

option.
Creates a rectangular stiff-

ener plate.
Creates a triangular stiffener

plate.
The line connecting the ends

of the angle profile legs
determines the stiffener plate
shape.

3 Concrete Detailing
Introduction This chapter introduces the concrete detailing tools available in Tekla Structures.
Audience This chapter is aimed at concrete detailers and designers.
Assumed We assume that you have read Parts in the Modeling Manual and created parts.
background
Contents This chapter contains the following topics:
• Corbel connection (14) (p. 59)
• Seating connections (p. 63)
• Concrete stairs (7) (p. 76)
• Slabs (p. 78)
3.1 Corbel connection (14)

Connects a beam to a column using a straight, beveled, or rounded corbel and
reinforcing bars or fastening plates.
Parts created • Corbel
• Bearing plate
• Reinforcing bar (optional)
• Fastening plates (2) (optional)
The Getting Started (p. 5) chapter introduces the concept of

using elements to automatically connect parts and create model
objects.

Concrete Detailing
Where to use
Situation More information
Connects a beam to a column using a rein-
forcing bar and a beveled corbel.
Connects a beam to a column using fasten-

ing plates and a rounded corbel.
Before you start Create the following parts:

• Concrete column
• Concrete beam

Concrete Detailing
Defining Use the tabs in the Corbel connection (14) dialog box to define the following
properties properties:
Tab Contents See also

Picture Corbel dimensions, corbel Chamfering corbels (p. 61)
shape, tolerances
Parts Bearing plate properties Creating a bearing plate
(14) (p. 62)
Rebar Option to use reinforcing bar or Connecting material for
fastening plates to connect cor- corbels (14) (p. 62)
bels, reinforcing bar and fasten-
ing plate properties
General General tab (p. 13)
Analysis Information used in structural Analysis properties of com-
analysis ponents
Picking order 1. Column

2. Beam
Chamfering corbels
The options for chamfering corbels are:
Option Description
Beveled
(Default)

Concrete Detailing
Option Description
Straight
Rounded
Creating a bearing plate (14)

To create the bearing plate, define the thickness, material, and name of the bear-
ing plate, and enter the plate distances from the edges of the corbel.
Connecting material for corbels (14)

Select one of the following options to specify the parts to use to connect the cor-
bel to the beam or column:
Option Connect by using

One reinforcing bar
(Default)
Two fastening plates

Concrete Detailing
3.2 Seating connections
Tekla Structures includes several seating connections that you can use to connect
concrete columns and beams using anchor bolts. The seating connection tools
are:
Command Icon Description

Seating with dowel (75) Connects a column and beam using
(p. 63) an anchor bolt.
Two-sided seating with Connects a column and two beams
dowel (76) (p. 68) using anchor bolts.
Seating with dowel to Connects the flanges of a beam to a
flange (77) (p. 72) column using anchor bolts.
Two-sided seating with Connects the flanges of two beams to
dowel to flange (78) (p. 74) a column using anchor bolts.
3.3 Seating with dowel (75)

Connects a column and a beam using an anchor bolt.
Parts created • Anchor bolt
• Nut
• Washer plate
• Bearing plate
• Fittings for beam and column
• Hole for bolt
• Corbel (optional)
• Recess for nut and washer plate (optional)

using components to automatically connect parts and create
model objects.

Concrete Detailing
Where to use
Connects a beam and a column using an
anchor bolt. Washer plate and nut protrude
from the beam.
Connects a beam and a column using an

anchor bolt and a beveled corbel. Washer
plate and nut recessed into the beam.

• Concrete column (round or rectangular profile)
• Concrete beam (rectangular, HI, I, L, or inverted T profile)

Concrete Detailing
Defining Use the tabs in the Seating with dowel (75) dialog box to define the following
properties properties:

Picture Position of anchor bolt, bolt Defining bolt hole dimen-
hole and bearing plate, bolt hole sions (p. 65)
dimensions, option to fit beam
Fitting the beam or column
or column, grout type, beam
(75) (p. 66)
clearance
Defining grout (75, 76)
(p. 66)
Parts Bearing plate, grout, washer Creating a recess (75, 76)
plate, nut, recess, and anchor (p. 67)
bolt properties
Corbel Option to create corbel, corbel Chamfering corbels (p. 61)
properties
Analysis Information used in structural Analysis properties of com-
analysis ponents

2. Beam
Defining bolt hole dimensions

Enter the following bolt hole dimensions:
Field Description
1 Hole dimension in the direction of the beam
2 The distance from beam centerline to hole center and bolt.
3 Hole dimension in the direction perpendicular to the beam.

Concrete Detailing
Fitting the beam or column (75)
Select one of the following options to have Tekla Structures fit the column or the
beam:
Option Description
Fits the column.
(Default)
Fits the beam.

The beam must be sloped.
Defining grout (75, 76)

Select one of the following options to include and define grout:
Option Description
No grout.
(Default)
Bolt hole grouted. No nut or washer plate.
Bolt hole grouted. Bolt, washer plate, and anchor bolt

protruding.

Concrete Detailing
Creating a recess (75, 76)
Select one of the following options to define if the nut and washer plate are
recessed into the beam:
Option Description
Nut and washer plate on the surface of the beam.
(Default)
Nut and bolt plate recessed into the beam.
Defining recess dimensions

If you choose to recess the nut and washer plate into the beam, enter the follow-
ing dimensions to define the recess:

Concrete Detailing
Bearing plate position (75, 76)
Select one of the following options to define the position of the bearing plate:
Option Description
Square with beam.
(Default)
Square with column.
3.4 Two-sided seating with dowel (76)

Connects a column and two beams using anchor bolts.
Parts created • Anchor bolts (2)
• Nuts (2)
• Washer plates (2)
• Bearing plates (2)
• Fittings for beam and column (2)
• Holes for bolts (2)
• Corbels (optional) (2)
• Recesses for washer plate and nut (optional) (2)

model objects.

Concrete Detailing
Where to use
Connects two beams to a column using
anchor bolts and creates corbels. Nuts and
washer plates on the surface of the beams.
Connects two beams to a column using

anchor bolts. Nuts and washer plates
recessed into the beams. Second beam is
sloped, and is cut to create a gap between
the beam and the column.

• Concrete column (round or rectangular profile)
• Two concrete beams (rectangular, HI, I, L, or inverted T profile)

Concrete Detailing
Defining Use the tabs in the Two-sided seating with dowel (76) dialog box to define the fol-
properties lowing properties:
Tab Contents More information

Picture Dimensions defining the posi- To use the same dimensions
tion of the anchor bolts relative for both beams, set Use the
to the beams and bearing plates. same parameters for left and
right beams to Yes and enter
Options to cut and shape the
the dimensions for the left
ends of the beams and to fit col-
beam only.
umn or beams.
Shaping beam ends (76, 78)
(p. 71)
Fitting beam or column
(76) (p. 71)
Parts Bearing plate, bolt, nut and Dimensioning parts (p. 19)
anchor bolt properties
Left beam Left beam is the first beam Defining bolt hole dimen-
Right beam picked and right is the second. sions (p. 65)
Anchor bolt, bolt hole and Creating a recess (75, 76)
recess properties. (p. 67)
Clearance between beam and Defining recess dimensions
column if beam is sloped. (p. 67)
Corbel Option to create corbel, corbel Chamfering corbels (p. 61)
properties
Analysis Information needed for struc- Analysis properties of com-
tural analysis ponents

2. Beam 1
3. Beam 2
Click the middle mouse button to finish picking and create the connection.

Concrete Detailing
Fitting beam or column (76)
Select one of the following options to fit the beams or the column:
Option Description
Fits column.
(Default)
Fits beam.

Select one of the following options to define how the end of the beams are cut
and shaped:
Key Options
1 = column
2 = first beam picked
3 = second beam picked

Concrete Detailing
3.5 Seating with dowel to flange (77)
Connects the flanges of a beam to a column using anchor bolts and an optional
corbel.
• Nuts (2)
• Bearing plate (1)
• Corbel (optional)
• Recess for nut and washer plates

model objects.
Where to use
Connects the flanges of a beam to a col-
umn using anchor bolts and a beveled cor-
bel. Nuts and washer plates recessed.

• Concrete column (Round or rectangular profile)
• Concrete beam with flange (rectangular, HI, I, L, or inverted T pro-
file)

Concrete Detailing
Defining Use the tabs in the Seating with dowel to flange (77) dialog box to define the fol-

Picture Dimensions defining the posi- Defining bolt hole dimen-
tion of the anchor bolt relative sions (p. 65)
to the beam and bearing plate,
length of anchor bolt in beam
and column, bolt hole dimen-
sions and position
Parts Bearing plate, washer plate, nut Creating a recess (77, 78)
and anchor bolt properties, (p. 73)
option to create recess, recess
properties
Corbel Options to create corbel, corbel Chamfering corbels (p. 61)
properties
Creating a recess (77, 78)

To cut a recess in the beam web, select the Yes option in the Create recess drop-
down list. Enter the following dimensions to define the recess:

Concrete Detailing
3.6 Two-sided seating with dowel to flange (78)
Connects the flanges of two beams to a column using anchor bolts and optional
corbels.
• Nuts (4)
• Bearing plate (2)
• Corbels (2) optional
• Recesses for nut and washer plate (4)

model objects.

Concrete Detailing
Where to use
Connects the flanges of two beams to a
column using anchor bolts.
Connects the flanges of two beams to a

column using anchor bolts and beveled
corbels.

• Concrete column (Round or rectangular profile)
• Concrete beam with flange (rectangular, HI, I, L, or inverted T pro-
file)

Concrete Detailing
Defining Use the tabs in the Two-sided seating with dowel (78) dialog box to define the fol-

Picture Dimensions defining the posi- Defining bolt hole dimen-
tion of the anchor bolts relative sions (p. 65)
to the beam and bearing plate,
length of anchor bolts in beam
(p. 71)
and column, beam ends
Parts Bearing plate, washer plate, nut Dimensioning parts (p. 19)
and dowel properties
Left beam Left beam is the first beam Defining bolt hole dimen-
Right beam picked and right is the second. sions (p. 65)
Bolt hole, nut and washer plate Creating a recess (77, 78)
properties. Option to create (p. 73)
recess, recess properties.
Left corbel Option to create corbel, corbel Chamfering corbels (p. 61)
Right cor- properties
bel
3.7 Concrete stairs (7)

Creates concrete stairs.

model objects.

Concrete Detailing
Where to use
A concrete staircase connected to
two concrete slabs.
Before you start Create two concrete slabs to connect the stairs to.
Defining Use the tabs in the Concrete stairs (7) dialog box to define the following proper-
properties ties:

Parameters Run and rise dimensions, Defining stair properties
stair slab thickness (p. 78)
Part Stairs properties Part properties
Notch Tolerance between the stairs Defining stair properties
and adjacent parts (p. 78)
Picking order 1. Pick a point to indicate the level of the lowest step.
2. Pick a point to indicate the level of the highest step.
3. Click two parts to which to connect the stairs. Tekla Structures fits the stairs
to these parts using the values in the Tolerance fields on the Notch tab.
Click the middle mouse button to finish picking and create the stairs.

Concrete Detailing
Defining stair properties
The illustration below shows the stairs properties that you can define.
Length at Tolerances
Length top
Length at
bottom
Height Width
Slab
thickness
In the Which dimension list box, select whether you want to specify the rise
(Height) or the run (Length).
Defining stair tolerances

Tolerances are the gaps that Tekla Structures leaves between the ends of the stairs
and adjacent structures. Use the Notch tab to define length, height, and width tol-
erances.
3.8 Slabs
Tekla Structures includes several tools you can use to create concrete slabs of
various types. The tools are:

Slab generation with poly- Creates slabs based on the shape of a
gon plate (61) (p. 79) auxiliary slab or plate. Change the
size or shape of the slab by dragging
the handles of the plate.
Slab generation with points Creates slabs based on points you
(62) (p. 81) pick. You cannot change slab shape
after creation.

Concrete Detailing
3.9 Slab generation with polygon plate (61)
Creates slabs based on the shape of an auxiliary plate.
Parts created Concrete slabs.
Where to use
Hollow core slab created using
an auxiliary plate.
To change the shape or size of
the plate, use the Polygon
shape command. See Edit >
Polygon shape in the online
help.
Before you start Create a contour plate or a concrete slab in the shape of the slabs you want to cre-
ate. This is the auxiliary plate.
Defining Use the tabs in the Slab generation with polygon plate (61) dialog box to define the
properties following properties:

Parameters Slab dimensions, gaps between Defining slab properties
slabs, slab direction and distri- (p. 80)
bution
Parts Slab properties Defining slab type (p. 79)
Part properties
Picking order Auxiliary plate.
Defining slab type

To select a slab type from the profile catalog, click the button against the
Slab field on the Parts tab.
The profile catalog includes the following profile types:
• Hollow-core slabs
• Double tee slabs
• Thin-shell slabs
• Composite slabs

Concrete Detailing
To find these profiles:
1. In the Profile category list box, select Library profile.
2. In the tree, click User-defined, fixed.
or:
1. In the Profile category list box, select Parametric profile.
2. Set profile type to User-defined, parametric.
3. In the Profile subtype list box, select a slab profile.
Defining slab properties

Use these options to define slab properties:
Property Description
Gap between slabs. To create overlapping slabs,
enter a negative value.
Use this to allow for joint reinforcement, grouting,
etc.
Distance from the outer edges of the slabs and the

corner of the auxiliary plate. To create a slab larger
than the auxiliary plate, enter a negative value.
Use this option to allow space for other parts, such
as bearing beams.
Generation direction Defines the direction in which Tekla Structures cre-

ates the slabs.
Adjustment Defines which slab(s) to truncate or delete for even
slab distribution. The options are first, last, and first
and last.
Slab profile Click the browse button to select a slab profile
from the profile catalog.

Concrete Detailing
3.10 Slab generation with points (62)
Creates slabs based on the corner points you pick.
Parts created Concrete slabs.
Where to use
Double tee slabs created by
picking eight points.
You cannot change the slab
area once the slabs are cre-
ated.
Defining Use the tabs in the Slab generation with points (62) dialog box to define the fol-

Parameters Slab dimensions, gaps between Defining slab properties
slabs, slab direction and distri- (p. 80)
bution
Parts Slab properties Defining slab type (p. 79)
Part properties
Picking order Pick any number of points to indicate corners of the slab. Close the shape by
picking the first point you picked.

Concrete Detailing
Concrete Detailing
4 Reinforcement
Introduction Once you have created a model of concrete parts, you will need to reinforce the
parts.
This chapter explains how to create reinforcement in Tekla Structures. It also
includes a general description of reinforcement properties and an overview of
reinforcement commands. You can find step-by-step instructions for these com-
mands in the online help.
Audience This chapter is aimed at concrete detailers and designers.
Assumed Before you start to create reinforcement, you need to have concrete parts in your
background model, as explained in Parts in the Modeling Manual and in Concrete Detailing
(p. 59).
Running the structural analysis as explained in Analysis and Design in the Anal-
ysis Manual gives you the required area of reinforcement. Read Loads in the
Analysis Manual for instructions on how to create loads.
Contents This chapter is divided into the following sections:
• Getting started with reinforcement (p. 84)
• Basic reinforcement properties (p. 85)
• Working with reinforcement (p. 90)
• Reinforcement for foundations (p. 96)
• Beam, column, and slab reinforcement (p. 108)
• Single bars, bar groups, and meshes (p. 136)

Reinforcement
4.1 Getting started with reinforcement
In Tekla Structures, you can use different methods to create reinforcement. You
can create:
• Single reinforcing bars
• Reinforcing bar groups
• Reinforcement meshes
• Reinforcement components.
Concepts We recommend that you use reinforcement components to create reinforcement
whenever possible. They are adaptive, attached to a concrete part, and updated
automatically if the dimensions of the reinforced part change, for example. Then
create additional reinforcing bars using other tools.
Reinforcing bar groups consist of several identical, or very similar, bars. Tekla
Structures always treats these bars as a group, modifies them in the same way,
deletes them all at the same time, etc.
Reinforcement meshes include bars in two perpendicular directions, i.e. main
bars and crossing bars. Tekla Structures treats mesh bars as one unit but distin-
guishes the main and crossing bars.
Reinforcement Every reinforcement object has properties which define it (for example, grade,
properties diameter or size, minimum bending radius). Use the reinforcement properties
dialog boxes to view or modify the properties of reinforcement. Click
Properties > Reinforcing bars to open reinforcement properties dialog boxes, or
double-click an existing reinforcement object in the model.
Filtering by You can use reinforcement properties in filters. For example, you can select,
properties modify, or hide reinforcing bars based on their properties. See Filter in the Mod-
eling Manual.
In reports and You can include reinforcement properties and user-defined attributes in drawing
drawings and report templates.
See also Basic reinforcement properties (p. 85)
Reinforcement in drawings
Getting Started (p. 5) with Detailing

Reinforcement
4.2 Basic reinforcement properties
This section explains properties that are common to most types of reinforcement
in Tekla Structures.
Name You can enter names for reinforcing bars. Tekla Structures uses names in reports
and drawing tables.
Grade The strength of the steel used in reinforcing bars. Can also indicate other factors,
such as the weldability or surface deformations of the bar.
Size Depending on the environment, the nominal diameter of the bar, or a mark that
defines the diameter.
Bending radius Complies with the design code you are using. Main bars, stirrups, ties, and hooks
usually have their own minimum internal bending radii, which are proportional
to the diameter of the reinforcing bar. The actual bending radius is normally cho-
sen to suit the size of the mandrels on the bar-bending machine.
Reinforcement Grade–size–radius combinations are predefined in the reinforcement catalog.
catalog You can select which catalog to use, and add, modify, and delete the information
it contains. See The reinforcing bar catalog in the online help.
Select... To define the grade, size, and bending radius of a reinforcing bar, click Select...
next to the Grade, Size, and Bending radius fields in the Reinforcing bar properties
dialog box. The Select reinforcing bar dialog box appears, showing the available
bar sizes for the chosen grade. You can also define whether the bar is a main bar
or a stirrup or tie:
You can also enter the grade, size, and bending radius of indi-
vidual reinforcing bars using the appropriate fields in the Rein-
forcing bar properties dialog box.

Reinforcement
Class Use Class to group reinforcement. To display reinforcing bars of different classes
in different colors, click Setup > Colors... and select By class from the Colors list
box. See also Colors in the Modeling Manual.
Bar groups Reinforcing bar groups mainly have the same properties as single reinforcing
bars. They can also have the following extra properties:
• Number of bars
• Spacing (see Spacing reinforcing bars (p. 89))
• Tapering
See also Numbering reinforcement (p. 94)
Hooks
To add hooks to the ends of reinforcing bars for anchoring purposes, use the
Hooks section of the Reinforcing bar properties dialog box:
The options for the hook at the beginning and end of the bar are:
Option Description
No hook
Standard 90-degree hook
Custom hook
The reinforcement catalog contains predefined dimensions for all standard hooks
(minimum bending radius, minimum hook length). See The reinforcing bar cat-
alog in the online help.

Reinforcement
Custom hook To manually define the angle, radius, and length of a hook, select the Custom
hook option and complete the following fields in the Reinforcing bar properties
dialog box:
Field Description
Angle Enter a value between
–180 and +180 degrees. Length
Radius Internal bending radius of
the hook. Angle Radius
Length Length of the straight part
of the hook.
Concrete cover
Reinforcing bars need a concrete cover, to protect them against harmful ele-
ments, such as the weather and fire. When you create single bars, Tekla Struc-
tures uses the thickness of concrete cover to determine the position of the bar.
You pick points to define the shape and plane of the bar.
Cover thickness Use the Cover thickness fields in the reinforcement properties dialog boxes to
define concrete cover.

Reinforcement
Example To create a beam stirrup, pick the corner points on the cross-sectional end plane
of the beam to define the bar shape and plane. The cover thickness on the plane
is the distance from beam’s bottom, top, and side surfaces to the stirrup. The
cover thickness from the plane is the distance from the end surface of the beam
to the stirrup, and perpendicular to the bar plane.
Concrete cover Description

Concrete cover on the plane
For example, the distances from a beam’s bottom,
top, and side surfaces to a stirrup.
To specify different concrete covers on the differ-
ent legs of a reinforcing bar, enter a thickness value
for each leg in the On plane field, in the order you
pick points to create the bar. If you enter less values
than there are bar legs, Tekla Structures uses the
last value for remaining legs.
Concrete cover from the plane
For example, the distance from a beam’s end sur-
face to the closest stirrup, perpendicular to the stir-
rup plane.
Leg length At the start and end point of a reinforcing bar, you can also define the concrete
cover in terms of cover thickness or leg length.
Option Description
Cover thickness Defines the distance from the bar end to
the concrete surface.
Leg length Defines the length of the ultimate leg of
the bar.
To define the length of an ultimate leg of a bar, use the Leg

length option and the Snap to nearest points switch. Then pick
anywhere on a part edge or line to indicate the direction for the
bar leg.

Reinforcement
Reinforcement When you use reinforcement components, Tekla Structures places the reinforce-
components ment using the dimensions of the part and the values in the Cover thickness field,
or the graphic fields shown below:
Spacing reinforcing bars

Bar groups There are several ways to distribute bars in a reinforcing bar group.
To create a bar group, open the Reinforcing bar properties dialog box. On the
Group tab, select an option from the Creation method list box. The options are:
Option Description
By exact spacing value Creates fixed, equal spaces between the bars. The
with flexible first space first space adjusts to even out bar distribution.
Enter the spacing value in the Exact spacing value
field. If the first space is less than 10% of the exact
spacing value, Tekla Structures removes one bar.
By exact spacing value Same as the first option, but the last space adjusts
with flexible last space to even out bar distribution.
By exact spacing value Same as the first option, but the middle space
with flexible middle adjusts to even out bar distribution. If there are an
space odd number of bars (two middle spaces), the other
middle space adjusts to even out bar distribution.
By exact spacing value Same as the first option, but both the first and last
with flexible first and spaces adjust to even out bar distribution.
last space
By exact spacings Distributes the bars using the information you
specify in the Exact spacing values field, so you can
enter every spacing value manually. Use the multi-
plication character to repeat spacings, e.g. 5*200,
to create five spaces of 200.

Reinforcement
Option Description
Equal distribution by Tekla Structures determines the spacing value
number of reinforcing based on the fixed number of bars. Enter the num-
bars ber in the Number of reinforcing bars field.
Equal distribution by Tekla Structures aims the spacing value as closely
target spacing value as possible at the value in the Target spacing value
field and determines the number of bars compati-
bly.
Omitting reinforcing bars

You may occasionally need to omit specific reinforcing bars. For example, when
several reinforced areas intersect, causing reinforcing bars to overlap, or when
you want to start bar distribution at a specific distance from the end of a part.
To indicate which bars to omit, select an option from the Reinforcing bar(s) not to
be created to the group list box:
• None (all reinforcing bars included)

• First
• Last
• First and last
User-defined attributes of reinforcement

Create user-defined attributes to add information about reinforcing bars, bar
groups, or reinforcement meshes. Attributes can consist of numbers, text, or lists.
To create user-defined attributes, click the User-defined attributes button in the
reinforcement properties dialog box. Use the User field 1...4 fields to define the
attributes you need.
You can also change the name of these fields, and add new ones, by editing the
objects.inp file. For more information, see Adding properties in the online help.
4.3 Working with reinforcement

This section explains how to create, place, attach, and modify reinforcement.

Reinforcement
Placing reinforcement
To place a reinforcing bar group, pick two sets of points:
1. The first set of points defines the plane of the first bar and the shape of a sin-
gle bar in the group. Click the middle mouse button to end picking.
2. Pick a second set of points to indicate the distribution direction and length of
the bars.
To place reinforcement components, select the part to reinforce.
See also Using reinforcement handles (p. 92).
Attaching reinforcement to parts

Attach reinforcement to a part or cast unit when you want the reinforcing bars to
follow the part or cast unit if it is moved, copied, deleted, etc.
Tekla Structures automatically attaches a reinforcement to the part you pick
before you place the reinforcement. You can also manually attach reinforcement
to a part or cast unit.
You must attach reinforcement to a part or cast unit to have

Tekla Structures merge automatic reinforcing bar marks. See
Merging reinforcing bar marks in the Drawing Manual.
Attaching To manually attach reinforcement to a part or cast unit:

manually
1. Select the reinforcement to attach.
2. Right-click and select Attach to part from the pop-up menu.
3. Select the part to attach the reinforcement to.
Detaching To detach reinforcement from a part:
1. Select the reinforcement to detach.
2. Right-click and select Detach from part from the pop-up menu.
Modifying reinforcement
To modify a single reinforcing bar, bar group, or reinforcement mesh, double-
click the reinforcement to open the properties dialog box.
To modify the properties of a reinforcement component, double-click the blue
macro symbol (M).

Reinforcement
To update the reinforcing bar, bar group, reinforcement mesh, or component you
selected, click Modify.
Changing reinforcement shape

To change the shape of the reinforcement, you can:
• Add bar corners
• Remove bar corners
• Move bar and mesh corners
• Change the direction of the longitudinal mesh bars
• Change the distribution length of bar groups
Using reinforcement handles

Tekla Structures uses handles to indicate:
• The ends and corners of a reinforcing bar
• The distribution length of a bar group
• The corners and main bar direction of a mesh
When you select a reinforcement, the handles turn magenta.
Examples Here are some ways to use handles to modify reinforcement:

Reinforcement
Handles to change
group distribution length
Handles to move
bar corners
Handles to move
mesh corners
Handles to change
main bar direction
To use handles to modify reinforcement:

1. Select the reinforcement to display its handles.
2. Click the handle you want to move. Tekla Structures highlights the handle.
3. Move the handle(s) like any other object. See Move in the Modeling Man-
ual. If Drag and drop is active, just drag the handle to a new position. See
Drag and drop in the Modeling Manual.
See also Polygon shape in the Modelin Manual.
Exploding reinforcement
Before you can modify or remove single bars in a reinforcement component, you
need to use the Explode component command to ungroup the bars that the rein-
forcement contains.
Reinforcement
To ungroup reinforcing bars:
1. Click Detailing > Explode component.
2. Select the blue macro symbol (M) on the reinforcement. Tekla Structures
ungroups the reinforcing bars.
Numbering reinforcement
Tekla Structures numbers reinforcement in the same way as it numbers parts. See
Numbering parts in the Modeling Manual. This section contains information
that you should consider when you plan reinforcement numbering.
See Numbering in the Modeling Manual for information on how to set up and
carry out numbering.
What affects reinforcement numbering

Tekla Structures treats reinforcing bars as identical, and gives them the same
number, if the following properties are the same:
• Bar geometry
• Numbering series
• Size
• Grade
• Bending radius
Defining identical Tekla Structures uses the values in the rebar_config.inp file in the ..\environ-
bar geometry ments\*your_environment*\system\ folder to round bar dimensions up or down.
For example, if you set the rounding accuracy for bar dimensions to 5 and round-
ing direction to up, Tekla Structures rounds all bar dimensions up to the nearest
5 mm. So, bars with dimensions of 131 mm and 133 mm would both round up to
135 mm. This gives them identical bar geometry.
You can edit the rebar_config.inp file using any standard text editor (e.g. Note-
pad).

Reinforcement
The entries in the rebar_config.inp file are:
Entry Description
ScheduleDimension- Options:
RoundingDirection
"UP": rounds bar dimensions up
ScheduleTotalLength-
"DOWN": rounds bar dimensions down
RoundingDirection
ScheduleDimension- Sets the rounding accuracy for bar dimen-
RoundingAccuracy sions. Default is 1 mm.
Tekla Structures rounds individual bar
dimensions up or down according to the
option you select for ScheduleDimen-
sionRoundingDirection.
ScheduleTotalLength- Sets the rounding accuracy for the total bar
RoundingAccuracy length. Default is 10 mm.
Tekla Structures rounds individual bar
dimensions up or down according to the
option you select for ScheduleTotal-
LengthRoundingDirection.
Class Class does not affect numbering. Tekla Structures gives the same number to
identical reinforcing bars that belong to different classes.
User-defined Tekla Structures treats reinforcing bars as different, and so numbers them differ-
attributes ently, if the values of a user-defined attribute differ. If a user-defined attribute has
the variable consider_in_numbering set to yes, Tekla Structures takes this
user-defined attribute into account when numbering.
For more information on defining user-defined attributes, see Adding properties
in the online help.
How reinforcement affects part numbering

To force Tekla Structures to give otherwise identical concrete parts and cast units
different numbers if they have different reinforcement:
1. Click Setup > Numbering....
2. In the Numbering setup dialog box, select the Reinforcing bars checkbox.
3. Click OK.
Cast unit numbering does not affect reinforcement numbering. For more infor-
mation on cast units, see Cast units and assemblies in the Modeling Manual.

Reinforcement
4.4 Reinforcement for foundations
Tekla Structures includes the following components that you can use to automat-
ically create reinforcement for foundations:
Component Icon Description

Strip footing (75) (p. 96) Creates reinforcement for a concrete
strip footing.
Pile cap reinforcement Creates reinforcement for a concrete
(76) (p. 98) pile cap.
Pad footing (77) (p. 104) Creates reinforcement for a concrete
pad footing.
Starter bars (p. 105) Creates starter bars in a footing and a
pedestal for a column.
Creates starter bars in a footing for a
column.
4.5 Strip footing (75)

Creates reinforcement for a concrete strip footing.
Bars created • Longitudinal bars for the top and bottom surfaces and sides of the footing
• Stirrups

model objects.
Use for
Straight strip footings that have rectangular cross sec-
tions

Reinforcement
Main bars entirely
inside the footing, no
side bars, stirrup laps
at stirrup corners.
Main bars protruding

from the footing, two
bars on both sides,
stirrup laps in the
middle of the top sur-
face.
Do not use for Footings that have:

• Irregular cross sections
• Skew or cut corners
Before you start • Create the concrete strip footing.
• Calculate the required area of reinforcement.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Strip footing (75) dialog box to define the properties
properties of the objects that this component creates:

Picture Concrete cover thickness, loca- Concrete cover (p. 87)
tion of side bars and first stirrups
Main bars Grade, size, number, spacing, Basic reinforcement
and bond lengths of the top, bot- properties (p. 85)
tom, left, and right bars
Strip footing reinforce-
Stirrups Grade, size, spacing, and bend ment properties (p. 98)
type of stirrups
Attributes Numbering properties, name,
and class of the top, bottom, left,
and right bars, and stirrups
Picking order 1. Concrete strip footing

Reinforcement
Strip footing reinforcement properties
Bond length of Bond lengths define how far main bars extend into adjacent structures at the ends
main bars of strip footings. Use the Bond length 1 fields on the Main bars tab for the first end
of the footing (with the yellow handle), and the Bond length 2 fields for the sec-
ond end of the footing (with the magenta handle).
You can define bond lengths separately for:
• Top bars
• Bottom bars
• Bars on the left side of the footing
• Bars on the right side of the footing
Bend type for To define the location of the stirrup laps in the strip footing, select an option from
stirrups the Bend type list box on the Stirrups tab. The options are:
Option Examples
At mid
At corner
4.6 Pile cap reinforcement (76)

Creates reinforcement for a concrete pile cap.

Reinforcement
Bars created • Bars in two directions for the top and bottom surfaces of the pile cap
• Lacer bars

model objects.
Use for
Bottom bars concentrated over the
piles, top bars under the column.
Two lacer bars.
Bars evenly distributed on the bot-

tom and top surfaces. No lacer bars.
Rectangular footings with or without Pad footing and pile cap shapes
cut corners, footings that are skewed on (p. 100)
one or both sides
Bars on the top, bottom, or both sur-
faces of the footing
Straight or bent bar ends
Before you start • Create the concrete pile cap.

Defining Use the following tabs in the Pilecap reinforcement (76) dialog box to define the
properties properties of the objects that this component creates:

Picture Concrete cover thickness, pri- Concrete cover (p. 87)
mary bar direction

Reinforcement
Primary top Grade, size, hooks, bend lengths, Hooks (p. 86)
bars distribution (by number or spac-
Bar distribution
Secondary top ing), and arrangement/location
(p. 101)
bars of the top and bottom bars in two
Primary bottom directions
bars
Secondary bot-
tom bars
Lacer bars Option to create lacer bars, Lacer bars for pad
grade, size, number, spacing, footings and pile caps
location, type, orientation, and (p. 102)
laps of lacer bars
Attributes Numbering properties, name, Basic reinforcement
and class of the top, bottom, and properties (p. 85)
lacer bars
Picking order 1. Concrete pile cap

2. Piles and/or columns
3. Click the middle mouse button to finish.
Pad footing and pile cap shapes

Use the Pile cap reinforcement (76) and Pad footing (77) tools to create reinforce-
ment for the following shapes of foundations:
Shape Description
Rectangular
Skewed on two sides

Reinforcement
Shape Description
Skewed on one side
Rectangular with cut corners
Bar distribution
Pad footings In pad footings, you can arrange the main reinforcing bars into:
• One zone of bars that have the same bar properties
• Three zones of bars that have different bar properties
You set the options separately for primary and secondary bars. Select an option
from the Arrangement list box on the relevant tab in the Pad footing (77) dialog
box.
Pile caps Define the pile cap reinforcement using the following properties in the Pile cap
reinforcement (76) dialog box:
Field Description
To suit pile/column Select Yes to concentrate main bars over
piles and under columns.
% of pile/column width The area where the bars are concentrated, as
a percentage of the width of the pile or col-
umn.
For example, if the pile diameter or width is
500 mm, enter 120 in the % of pile width
field to concentrate bars in a 600 mm-wide
area over the pile.
Bar portioning (%) The proportion of bars concentrated over a

pile or under a column.
Bar portioning (number of The number of bars concentrated over a pile
bars) or under a column.

Reinforcement
You can define these properties separately for:
• Primary top bars
• Secondary top bars
• Primary bottom bars
• Secondary bottom bars
Lacer bars for pad footings and pile caps

Lacer bars are reinforcing bars that loop around the sides of a concrete footing.
You can create up to six different groups of lacer bars in a footing. Each group
can contain different values for:
• Grade
• Bar size
• Number of bars
• Spacing
• Shape
• Dimensions
To create lacer bars for a footing:
1. Open the footing reinforcement properties dialog box and click the Lacer
bars tab.
2. In the Lacer bar option list box, select Yes to create lacer bars.
3. Enter properties for each lacer bar group:

Reinforcement
Quantity, spacing, and location of lacer bar
groups.
Tekla Structures only uses information from
some of the fields, in this order of priority:
1. Number of bars and Spacing
2. Number of bars, Start, and End
3. Spacing, Start, and End
Type The number and location of laps. The options

are:
Orientation The options are Default, Front, and Back.

p1...p4 The exact locations and lengths of lacer bar
L1...L4 laps. Locations are measured from the corner
of the bar to the midpoints of laps.
The location of the topmost lacer bar, mea-

sured from the end of main bars.
Entering a value here overrides the location
defined in the End field.

Reinforcement
4.7 Pad footing (77)
Creates reinforcement for a concrete pad footing.
Bars created • Bars in two directions for the bottom surface of the pad footing
• Lacer bars

model objects.
Use for
Rectangular footing, 90-degree
hooks at the primary bar ends, 180-
degree hooks at the secondary bar
ends, no lacer bars.
Rectangular footing, three zones of

primary bars with different spacing,
straight bar ends, three lacer bars.
Footing skewed on two sides, two

groups of lacer bars with different
spacing.
Rectangular footings with or without Pad footing and pile cap shapes
cut corners, footings that are skewed on (p. 100)
one or both sides

Reinforcement
Before you start • Create the concrete pad footing.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Pad footing (77) dialog box to define the properties
properties of the objects that this component creates:

Picture Concrete cover thickness Concrete cover (p. 87)
Primary bar Arrangement, grade, size, hooks, Hooks (p. 86)
Secondary bar bend lengths, and distribution
Bar distribution
(by number or spacing) of the
(p. 101)
primary and secondary bars, pri-
mary bar direction
Lacer bar Grade, size, number, spacing, Lacer bars for pad
location, type, orientation, and footings and pile caps
laps of lacer bars (p. 102)
Attributes Numbering properties, name, Basic reinforcement
and class of the primary, second- properties (p. 85)
ary, and lacer bars
Picking order 1. Concrete pad footing
4.8 Starter bars

Starter bars for pillar (86) and Starter bars for footing (87) create starter bars in a
footing for a column. Starter bars may go through a pedestal or straight to the
column. Starter bars can be in a rectangular or circular form.
Bars created • Starter bars (straight or L-shaped)
• Stirrups (optional)

model objects.

Reinforcement
Use for
Starter bars for footing (87) places
starter bars in a footing in rectangu-
lar or circular form. Starter bars can
be straight or L-shaped, and can
have stirrups.
Starter bars for pillar (86) creates

straight or L-shaped starter bars
that go through a rectangular or cir-
cular pedestal. Starter bars can have
stirrups.
Before you start • Create the footing.

Defining Use the following tabs in the Starter bars for pillar (86) and Starter bars for footing
properties (87) dialog boxes to define the component properties:

Picture 86: Bar dimensions and loca- Concrete cover (p. 87)
tions, number and spacing of
Starter bar stirrups
bars, stirrup type, concrete cover
(p. 107)
thickness
87: Bar dimensions and loca- Concrete cover (p. 87)
tions, number and spacing of
bars, concrete cover thickness
Location 87 only: Location of bars, stirrup Starter bar location
type (p. 107)
(p. 107)
Parameters Grade, size, name, class, and Basic reinforcement
numbering properties of bars properties (p. 85)

Reinforcement
Picking order 1. Footing
2. Pedestal (only for Starter bars for pillar (86))

Use these options to define stirrup laps in footings:
Option Description
Laps on the side of the stirrups
45-degree hooks at bar ends
Laps at stirrup corners


If the starter bars are in a circular form,

you must define the angle of stirrup
overlap.
Starter bar location

When you use Starter bars for footing (87), you must define the location of starter
bars. Enter the distance from the center of the bar group to the center of the foot-
ing, in two directions:

Reinforcement
4.9 Beam, column, and slab reinforcement
Tekla Structures includes the following components that you can use to automat-
ically create reinforcement for beams, columns, and slabs:
Component Icon Description

Beam reinforcement Creates reinforcement for a concrete
(63) (p. 108) beam.
Double tee reinforce- Creates prestressed strands and other
ment (64) (p. 111) reinforcement for a concrete double tee.
Beam end reinforce- Creates reinforcement for the end of a
ment (79) (p. 114) concrete beam or strip footing.
Corbel reinforcement Creates reinforcement for one or two
(81) (p. 117) corbels in a concrete column.
Round column rein- Creates reinforcement for a concrete
forcement (82) (p. 120) column that has a round cross section.
Rectangular column Creates reinforcement for a concrete
reinforcement (83) column that has a rectangular cross sec-
(p. 124) tion.
Hole reinforcement for Creates a hole in a concrete slab or wall
slabs and walls (84) and reinforcement around the hole.
(p. 128)
Hole creation and rein- Creates a hole in a concrete part and
forcement (85) (p. 130) reinforcement around the hole.
Slab bars (18) (p. 134) Creates the main reinforcement for a
concrete slab.
4.10 Beam reinforcement (63)

Creates reinforcement for a concrete beam.
Bars created • Longitudinal main bars
• Corner and side bars
• Main and additional stirrups (2 groups)

model objects.

Reinforcement
Use for
Rectangular beams
L-shaped beams (RCL pro-

files)
RCX profiles
Inverted T-beams (RCDL

profiles)

Reinforcement
Before you start • Create the concrete beam.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Beam reinforcement (63) dialog box to define the

Parameters Concrete cover thickness, num- Concrete cover (p. 87)
ber, size, and location of bars,
Beam reinforcement
stirrup size
properties (p. 111)
Stirrup spacing Distances from the part ends to
the first stirrups, number of
spaces and spacing of main and
additional stirrups in five zones
along the length of the part
Advanced Grade, name, class, and number- Basic reinforcement
ing properties of the bottom, top, properties (p. 85)
and side bars, and main and
additional stirrups
Picking order 1. Concrete beam

Reinforcement
Beam reinforcement properties
Use the following fields on the Parameters tab in the Beam reinforcement (63) dia-
log box to define the beam reinforcement properties:
Main stirrup
size
Size of corner
bars
Additional
stirrup size
Number and size of bars
4.11 Double tee reinforcement (64)

Creates prestressed strands and other reinforcement for a concrete double tee.
Bars created • Prestressed strands in double tee ribs
• Stirrups in double tee ribs
• Reinforcement mesh on the top surface of the double tee

Reinforcement
model objects.
Use for
Straight strands
Different strand pattern and
number of strands
When you use different stirrup
shapes and spacings
Before you start • Create the concrete double tee.

• Calculate the required area of strands and other reinforcement.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Double tee reinforcement (64) dialog box to define
properties the properties of the objects that this component creates:

Parameters Concrete cover thickness, size, Concrete cover (p. 87)
number, and pattern of strands,
Double tee reinforce-
stirrup size and type, size and
ment properties
spacing of longitudinal and
(p. 113)
crossing bars in the mesh
Stirrup spacing Distances from the part ends to
the first stirrups, number of
spaces and spacing of stirrups in
five zones along the length of
the part
Advanced Grade, name, class, and number- Basic reinforcement
ing properties of the strands, stir- properties (p. 85)
rups, and mesh bars
Reinforcement
Picking order 1. Concrete double tee
Double tee reinforcement properties

Strand pattern Use the following options to define the strand pattern in double tee ribs:
Grid Staggered 1st Staggered 2nd
Stirrups Use the following options to define the stirrups and stirrup hooks in double tees:
Option Example
Closed
Open

Reinforcement
Option Example
Open with 90
degree hooks
Open with 135

degree hooks
Open with 180

degree hooks
4.12 Beam end reinforcement (79)

Creates reinforcement for the end of a concrete beam or strip footing.
Bars created • Horizontal U-shaped bars (types 1 and 2)
• Framing bars (types 3A and 3B)
• Oblique bar (type 4)
• Stirrups (types 5A and 5B)

Reinforcement
Framing bars
(type 3A)
Horizontal U
bars (type 2)
Framing bars
(type 3B)
Horizontal U
bars (type 1)
Stirrups
(type 5A)
Oblique bar
(type 4)
Stirrups
(type 5B)

model objects.
Use for
Standard beams Use bars 3A and 5A for the beam end.
Dapped beams
Beams with anchor bolt hole in
the notched area
Beams and strip footings that
have a rectangular cross section
Do not use for Parts that have irregular cross sections.

Before you start • Create the concrete beam or strip footing.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Beam end reinforcement (79) dialog box to define
properties the properties of the objects that this component creates:

Picture Concrete cover thickness, dis- Concrete cover (p. 87)
tances from the concrete surface
to the bars, angle of bar 4
Bars Bar dimensions of each bar type, Beam end reinforcing
which bars to create bars (p. 116)

Reinforcement
Groups Number and spacing of bars in
each group of bar types. If the
spacing varies, enter each value
individually.
In the Bar 4 list box, select Yes to
create the bar.
Attributes Grade, size, class, and number- Basic reinforcement
ing properties of the bars properties (p. 85)
Picking order 1. Concrete beam or strip footing
Beam end reinforcing bars

Horizontal U bars 1 and 2
Use the following options to create bars in the lower area of the beam end, in the
horizontal planes (bar type 1):
Option Description
Two bars on each plane. One in
the middle of the beam end, the
other extending to the sides of
the beam.
One bar on each plane, extend-

ing to the sides of the beam.

Reinforcement
Option Description
One bar on each plane, in the
middle of the beam end.
Two identical, overlapping bars

on each plane.
To create bars in the upper area of the beam end, around a hole, enter dimensions
for bar 2.
Vertical framing bars 3A and 3B

To create vertical framing bars, enter dimensions for:
• Bar 3A: for the notched area of the beam.
• Bar 3B: for the higher part of the beam.
Stirrups 5A and 5B
To create stirrups for beam ends, enter dimensions for:
• Bar 5A: for the notched area of the beam.
• Bar 5B: for the higher part of the beam.
4.13 Corbel reinforcement (81)

Creates reinforcement for one or two corbels in a concrete column. The two cor-
bels must have the same top level, thickness, and horizontal location.
Bars created • Main bars
• Stirrups
• Additional bars

Reinforcement
model objects.
Use for
Two corbels, beveled and rounded, with
the same top level, thickness, and horizon-
tal location.
Two additional bars crossing each other.
One straight corbel.

One additional bar.
Do not use for Two very different corbels.

Before you start • Create the concrete column and beam(s).
• Create the corbel(s). See Corbel connection (14) (p. 59) and Seating con-
nections (p. 63).

Reinforcement
Defining Use the following tabs in the Corbel reinforcement (81) dialog box to define the

Main bars Dimensions, grade, size, name, Basic reinforcement
class, numbering properties, properties (p. 85)
number, and spacing of main
bars, distances from the concrete
surface to the bars
Stirrups Distances from the concrete sur- Representation of stir-
face to the stirrups, length of rups (p. 124)
stirrup hooks, number, spacing,
grade, size, name, class, and
numbering properties of stirrups
Additional bars Distances from the concrete sur- Additional bars in cor-
face to the additional bars, bels (p. 120)
dimensions, number, grade, size,
name, class, and numbering
properties of additional bars
Picking order 1. Concrete column

2. Corbel(s)

Reinforcement
Additional bars in corbels
Use these options to define the number of additional bars in corbels:
Option Description
No additional bars.
One additional bar.
Two additional bars parallel to each other.
Two additional bars crossing each other.
4.14 Round column reinforcement (82)

Creates reinforcement for a concrete column that has a round cross section.
Bars created • Longitudinal main bars
• Stirrups
• Column end reinforcement

model objects.

Reinforcement
Use for
Main bars bent outside the column. Con-
tinuous spiral stirrup.
Straight main bars protruding from the col-

umn, or entirely inside the column. Sepa-
rate stirrups. End of column reinforced.
Ends of column cut or fitted

Exact or variable stirrup spacing
Do not use for Rectangular columns.

Before you start • Create the concrete column.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Round column reinforcement (82) dialog box to
properties define the properties of the objects that this component creates:

Main bars Horizontal and vertical bond Concrete cover (p. 87)
lengths at the top and bottom of
Basic reinforcement
the column, thickness of con-
properties (p. 85)
crete cover over stirrups
Number, rotation, grade, size,
class, name, and numbering
properties of the bars
Stirrups Thickness of concrete cover over Column stirrup prop-
stirrups at the top and bottom of erties (p. 123)
the column, spacing and number
Group 1 is the top stir-
of stirrups or turns in each stir-
rup group, 5 is the bot-
rup group, stirrup types, overlap
tom one. Group 3 is
angle
always created.

Reinforcement
Stirrup Grade, size, name, class, and Basic reinforcement
attributes numbering properties of each properties (p. 85)
stirrup group
Top Concrete cover thickness, Column top and bot-
dimensions, rotation, number, tom reinforcement
grade, size, class, name, and (p. 124)
numbering properties of the top
Concrete cover (p. 87)
reinforcement
Bottom Concrete cover thickness, Basic reinforcement
dimensions, rotation, number, properties (p. 85)
grade, size, class, name, and
numbering properties of the bot-
tom reinforcement

Reinforcement
Column stirrup properties
Use these options to define the stirrups in round and rectangular columns:
Option Description Applies to

Separate stirrups Round columns
Single, continuous spiral stir-

rup
Separate spiral stirrups
Angle of stirrup overlap
Laps at stirrup corners Rectangular columns


Use these options in the Bars/laps list box to define the spacing of stirrups:
Option Description
Exact space, flexible at Tekla Structures uses exactly the spacing value
ends you specify, and evens out the stirrup distribu-
tion at the column ends.
Target space Tekla Structures creates the stirrups at even
spacings and tries to use the spacing value you
specify.

Reinforcement
Representation of stirrups
Use these options to define how Tekla Structures shows stirrups in the model and
drawings:
Option Description
Stirrup corners collide. Use this option to show stirrups as
single lines in drawings, even if they do not look realistic in
the model.
Stirrup corners do not collide.
Column top and bottom reinforcement

Use these options to define the rotation of the reinforcement at the top or bottom
of columns:
Option Description Applies to

No rotation. Rectangular columns
Transverse bars are perpendicu-
lar to the longer side of the col-
umn.
Rotation angle is 90 degrees.
Transverse bars are parallel to
the longer side of the column.
Rotation angle of the reinforce- Round columns
ment at the ends of round col-
umns.
4.15 Rectangular column reinforcement (83)

Creates reinforcement for a concrete column that has a rectangular cross section.

Reinforcement
Bars created • Longitudinal main bars: corner bars (4), side bars
• Stirrups
• Intermediate links
• Column end reinforcement

model objects.
Use for
Main bars bent outside the column. Side
bars on long sides. Intermediate links tie
side bars at every second stirrup.
Straight corner and side bars entirely

inside the column. End of column rein-
forced.
Ends of column cut or fitted

Exact or variable stirrup spacing
Do not use for Round columns.

Before you start • Create the concrete column.

Reinforcement
Defining Use the following tabs in the Rectangular column reinforcement (83) dialog box to

Picture Rotation of reinforcement in Square columns
square columns, number and (p. 127)
spacing of side bars, options to
Intermediate column
create intermediate links and
links (p. 127)
define which side bars to tie,
thickness of concrete cover over Concrete cover (p. 87)
stirrups
Main bars Horizontal and vertical bond
lengths, at the top and bottom of
the column, for corner and side
bars
Main bar Grade, size, class, name, and Basic reinforcement
attributes numbering properties of the properties (p. 85)
main bars
Stirrups Thickness of concrete cover over Column stirrup prop-
stirrups at the top and bottom of erties (p. 123)
the column, spacing and number
Group 1 is the top stir-
of stirrups in each stirrup group,
rup group, 5 is the bot-
stirrup types
tom one. Group 3 is
always created.
Stirrup Grade, size, name, class, and Basic reinforcement
attributes numbering properties of each properties (p. 85)
stirrup group
Intermediate Grade, size, name, class, num- Intermediate column
links bering properties, and spacing of links (p. 127)
intermediate links in each stirrup
group
Top Concrete cover thickness, Column top and bot-
dimensions, direction, number, tom reinforcement
grade, size, class, name, and (p. 124)
numbering properties of the top
reinforcement
Bottom Concrete cover thickness, Basic reinforcement
dimensions, direction, number, properties (p. 85)
grade, size, class, name, and
numbering properties of the bot-
tom reinforcement

Reinforcement
Square columns
In square columns, you must identify the perpendicular sides of a column if they
require different reinforcement. Use the list box on the Picture tab to rotate all
reinforcement in a square column by 90 degrees:
Intermediate column links

If you have rectangular columns that have very large cross sections, the side bars
may be a long way from the corners of the stirrups. You will need to create inter-
mediate links in order to tie all side bars, and prevent them from buckling when
they are in compression.
On the Picture tab, define the distance

from the stirrup corner within which
stirrups tie the side bars.
Tekla Structures creates intermediate

links to tie side bars outside stirrup
corners.

Reinforcement
Use these options to define the spacing of intermediate links:
Option Description
Spacing is the same as stirrup spacing.
Spacing is double the stirrup spacing

(intermediate links at every second stir-
rup).
Same as above, but for alternate stir-
rups.
4.16 Hole reinforcement for slabs and walls (84)

Creates a hole in a concrete slab or wall and reinforcement around the hole.
Bars created • Straight bars along hole edges

• Diagonal bars close to hole corners
• U-shaped edge bars

model objects.

Reinforcement
Use for
Rectangular holes in concrete slabs
and walls
Straight and edge bars only, no diago-
nal bars.
Diagonal and edge bars only, no

straight bars.
Hole rotated from the direction of the

slab.
One diagonal bar at each corner.
Different number of bars on each side

of the hole in the wall. No diagonal
bars.
Do not use for Round holes.

Reinforcement
Before you start • Create the concrete slab or wall.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Hole reinforcement for slabs and walls (84) dialog
properties box to define the properties of the objects that this component creates:

Picture Hole dimensions, bar dimen- Concrete cover (p. 87)
sions and location, concrete
cover thickness
Rotation angle of the hole:
Horizontal and Which bars are closest to the sur- Basic reinforcement
vertical bars face of the concrete (vertical or properties (p. 85)
horizontal), number, grade, size,
The slab or wall direc-
numbering properties, name, and
tion defines the direc-
class of each bar group along the
tion of the hole and
sides of the hole
which bars are to the
Edge bars Spacing, grade, size, numbering left and right of, and
properties, name, and class of above and below the
bar group on each side hole.
Diagonal bars Number, grade, size, numbering
properties, name, and class of
bar group at each corner of the
hole
Picking order 1. Center of the hole

2. Concrete slab or wall
4.17 Hole creation and reinforcement (85)

Creates a hole in a concrete part and reinforcement around the hole.
Bars created • Straight bars at hole edges
• Stirrups
• Z-shaped bars

Reinforcement
model objects.
Use for
Rectangular hole, stirrups on each side
of the hole, no Z-shaped bars.
Round hole, Z-shaped bars, no stirrups

around the hole.
Concrete beams or columns

Round or rectangular holes Hole only. No additional reinforcement
around it.
With or without Z-shaped bars or
stirrups
Do not use for Parts that have round or irregular cross sections.
Before you start • Create the concrete part.

Reinforcement
Defining Use the following tabs in the Hole creation and reinforcement (85) dialog box to

Picture Hole shape, direction, and Reinforcement around
dimensions, bar dimensions and holes (p. 132)
location, concrete cover thick-
ness, angle of Z-shaped bars
Bars The number, grade, size, name, Basic reinforcement
class, and numbering properties properties (p. 85)
of:
• Straight bars above and
below the hole
• Z-shaped bars on the left
and right side of the hole
Stirrups Number, spacing, grade, size, Basic reinforcement
name, class, and numbering properties (p. 85)
properties of stirrups
Additional stirrup settings Stirrups at holes
(p. 134)
Picking order 1. Center of the hole

2. Concrete part
Reinforcement around holes

Use these options to create holes and additional reinforcement:
Option Description
Creates a hole and addi-
tional reinforcement
around it.
Only creates a hole, no

reinforcement.

Reinforcement
Use these options to define the direction of holes:
Option Description
Hole along the local y
direction of the part.
Hole along the local z

direction of the part.
Use these options to define Z-shaped bars around round holes:
Option Description
Concrete cover measured
in the direction of the
radius of the hole.
Concrete cover measured

from the corner of the
bounding box around the
hole.
Use these options to define the direction of Z-shaped bars:
Option Description

Reinforcement
Stirrups at holes
Use these options to define the stirrups around holes:
Option Description
Single stirrups
Bundled stirrups
Hooks
Option Description
135-degree hooks
90-degree hooks
See also Representation of stirrups (p. 124)
4.18 Slab bars (18)

Creates reinforcement for a concrete slab.
Bars created Main slab bars.

model objects.

Reinforcement
Use for
Slab bars (18) creates reinforcement for
the bottom or top surface of the slab, or
for both. See Slab reinforcement
properties (p. 136).
Before you start • Create the concrete slab.

Defining Use the following tabs in the Slab bars (18) dialog box to define the properties of
properties the objects that this component creates:

Picture Concrete cover thickness, which Concrete cover (p. 87)
bars to create (bottom/top/both),
Slab reinforcement
primary bar direction
properties (p. 136)
Bottom bars Grade, size, spacing, and genera- Basic reinforcement
tion type of bottom bars properties (p. 85)
Top bars Grade, size, spacing, and genera- Slab reinforcement
tion type of top bars properties (p. 136)
Attributes Numbering properties, name,
and class of bars
Picking order 1. Concrete slab

Reinforcement
Slab reinforcement properties
Tekla Structures creates slab reinforcement using the properties in the Slab bars
(18) dialog box:

Create bars Defines on which surface(s) to
create bars. The options are:
• Both sides
• Bottom side
• Top side
Primary bar direc- The direction of primary bars.
tion Use to change bar direction.
The options are:
• Use slab x direction
• Use slab y direction
• Use global x direction
• Use global y direc-
tion
Bar generation type Defines whether Tekla Struc- Getting started with
tures treats the bars as a group reinforcement
or a mesh. (p. 84)
4.19 Single bars, bar groups, and meshes

Tekla Structures includes the following tools to create single reinforcing bars, bar
groups, and reinforcement meshes:

Reinforcing bar Creates a single reinforcing bar.
Reinforcing bar group Creates a reinforcing bar group.
Reinforcement mesh Creates a reinforcement mesh.
Lifting anchor (80) Creates two lifting anchors or anchor

(p. 137) groups for a concrete part.

Reinforcement
See the online help for detailed instructions on how to use these tools.
4.20 Lifting anchor (80)

Creates two lifting anchors (or anchor groups) for a concrete part and places
them symmetrically on either side of the part’s center of gravity.
30% of part length (default)
Center of gravity
Objects created Lifting anchors (2 or more).

model objects.
Use for
Straight anchor with
straight legs
(Type A in the anchor
properties file, see
Anchor properties
from file (p. 140))
Straight anchor with L-

shaped legs
(Type D)

Reinforcement
Angle anchor with
straight legs
(Type B)
Angle anchor with L-

shaped legs
(Type C)
Before you start Create the concrete part.

Defining Use the following tabs in the Lifting anchor (80) dialog box to define the proper-
properties ties of the objects that this component creates:

Picture Anchor dimensions and loca- Lifting anchor proper-
tions, number and spacing of ties (p. 139)
anchors, basic anchor properties
Basic reinforcement
properties (p. 85)
Picking order 1. Concrete part

Reinforcement
Lifting anchor properties
The properties of lifting anchors are:
Field Description
Anchor dimensions The options are:
• Use dialog values
• Select from file, see Anchor proper-
ties from file (p. 140).
You need to enter different dimensions for dif-
ferent anchor types.
The distance between an anchor (or anchor
group) and the center of gravity of the part.
Default is 30% of the part length.
The distance between an anchor (or group) and

the center line of the part.
Number of bars/spacings The number and spacing of anchors in a group.

If the spacing varies, enter each value individu-
ally.
Side The side of the part where Tekla Structures cre-
ates the anchors. The options are Front, Top,
Back, and Below.
Grade, Size, Name, Series, See Basic reinforcement properties (p. 85).
Start number

Reinforcement
Anchor properties from file
You can define lifting anchor properties by entering values in the dialog box (see
Lifting anchor properties (p. 139)), or you can create a file containing the
anchor properties you want to use. Use any standard text editor to create the file
and save it as LiftingAnchors.dat in the model folder.
To use the anchor properties you define in a file:
1. In the Lifting anchor (80) dialog box, select Select from file from the Anchor
dimensions list box.
2. Click the ... button to browse for the file.

Example Create a row in the file for each lifting anchor. Enter the following properties,
separated by spaces:
• Anchor capacity [kN], including safety and material factors
• Type [A, B, C, or D], see the Use for table in Lifting anchor (80) (p. 137)
• Grade [characters]
• Size [characters]
• Anchoring length 1 [mm]
• Anchoring length 2 [mm]
• Protruding dimension of the anchor outside the part [mm]
• Penetrating dimension of the anchor inside the part [mm]
• Bending radius [mm]
• Hook length [mm] (0 = no hook)
• Angle of leg 1 [degrees]
• Angle of leg 2 [degrees]
Here is an example of a lifting anchor file (Tekla Structures ignores the com-
ments enclosed in /* */):
LiftingAnchors.dat
10 B A500HW 10 400 400 100 0 30 75 30 30 /* /\ */
20 B A500HW 12 600 600 150 0 36 100 30 30 /* / \ */
30 B A500HW 16 900 900 200 0 80 150 30 30 /* \/ \/ */
10 B A500HW 10 400 400 100 0 30 0 30 30 /* /\ */

20 B A500HW 12 600 600 150 0 36 0 30 30 /* / \ */
30 B A500HW 16 900 900 200 0 80 0 30 30 /* / \ */
10 C A500HW 10 400 400 100 200 30 75 30 30 /* /\ */

20 C A500HW 12 600 600 150 300 36 100 30 30 /* _ / \ _ */
30 C A500HW 16 900 900 200 500 80 150 30 30 /* |__/ \__| */
10 C A500HW 10 400 400 100 200 30 0 30 30 /* /\ */

20 C A500HW 12 600 600 150 300 36 0 30 30 /* / \ */
30 C A500HW 16 900 900 200 500 80 0 30 30 /* ___/ \___ */

Reinforcement
Tekla Structures will use the first anchor in the file that:
1. Has the shape and type you define using the graphic list boxes in the Lifting
anchor (80) dialog box.
2. Can carry the part’s weight with other identical anchors. The total number of
anchors is two times the number you specify in the Number of bars field.

Reinforcement
Reinforcement
5 Built-up Components
Introduction This chapter introduces the built-up components available in Tekla Structures.
• Beams (p. 143)
• Columns (p. 154)
• Frames (p. 159)
• Connections and details (p. 162)
5.1 Beams
Use these componentss to automatically create built-up beams:
Component Image Description

Box girder (S13) Creates a built-up beam using
(p. 144) four plates welded together.
Cross profile (S32) Creates a built-up beam using

(p. 146) an I profile and two T profiles
welded to the I profile web.

Built-up Components
Cross plate profile Creates a built-up beam from
(S33) (p. 147) seven plates welded together.
Tapered beam Creates a tapered or straight

(S98) (p. 148) built-up beam with I shape.
Tapered beam 2 Creates a tapered or straight

(S45) (p. 150) built-up beam with I shape.
Flange and web plates can be
spliced.
5.2 Box girder (S13)

Creates a built-up beam with box cross section.
Use for Straight built-up beams.

Do not use for Tapered built-up beams.
Before you start Ensure that you have two points to pick.

Built-up Components
Defining Use the following tabs in built-up beam dialog boxes to define the properties of
properties the component:

Picture Dimensions of plates.
Parts Properties of plates. Dimensioning parts
(p. 19)
Parameters Part names, classes and finishes. Built-up beam param-
Beam location and length. eters (p. 145)
Picking order 1. Starting point for the beam.

2. End point for the beam.
Built-up beam parameters

The Parameters tabs for the following built-up beams are the same:
• Box girder (S13)
• Cross profile (S32)
• Cross plate profile (S33)
Use the following fields to change part properties and length and location of
beams:
Field Description
Name See Part properties.
Class
Finish
Move end 1 Moves the end of the beam you pick first. Negative
values shorten the beam, positive values lengthen
it.
Move end 2 Moves the end of the beam you pick second. Nega-
tive values shorten the beam, positive values
lengthen it.
Position in plane See Horizontal position.
Position in plane offset
Rotation See Rotation.
Rotation offset
Position in depth See Position depth.
Position in depth offset

Built-up Components
5.3 Cross profile (S32)
Creates a built-up beam using an I profile and two T profiles welded to the I pro-
file web.

Before you start Check that you have two points to pick.
properties the parts the component creates:

Picture Dimensions of profiles. Eccentricity (p. 146)
(p. 19)
Beam location and length. eters (p. 145)

Eccentricity
Use eccentricity to adjust the location of horizontal parts relative to vertical parts
in the following built-up beams:
• Cross profile (S32)
• Cross plate profile (S33)

Built-up Components
By default the eccentricity is zero. So T profiles or plates are connected to the
middle of the I profile web or vertical plate.
5.4 Cross plate profile (S33)

Creates a built-up beam using seven plates welded together.

properties the parts this component creates.

Picture Dimensions of plates. Eccentricity (p. 146)
(p. 19)
Location and length of beam. eters (p. 145)


Built-up Components
5.5 Tapered beam (S98)
Creates a tapered or straight built-up beam with I shape.
Parts created • Web plate
• Top flange plate
• Bottom flange plate

model objects.
Use for
Creates a simple built-up beam between
two picked points.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered beam (S98) dialog box to define the proper-
properties ties of the component:

Picture Height of the web or the entire
beam, depending on the option
in the Height type field on the
Parameters tab. Sloping rise and
run values.
(p. 19)
Parameters Height type, type of reference Tapered beam param-
point, type of cut, end plate eters (p. 149)
thickness, position of web plate.

Built-up Components
Picking order 1. Pick a start and end point to indicate beam length:
Tapered beam parameters

The properties on the Parameters tab in the Tapered beam (S98) dialog box are:
Height type Affects the height values entered in the Picture tab.
Type of reference point Location of the end of the beam, relative to a point
you pick:
Top profile, end of endpl
Top profile, end of webpl
Top webpl, end of endp
Top webpl, end of webpl

Built-up Components
Type of cut Shape of beam ends:
• Vertical in global system
• Perpend to top flange
• In Z of current plane: depends on the position of

the work plane
Position of web plate Adjusts the location of web plate. See also Position
depth in the online help.
Thickness of endplate Set-back distance of beam ends.
5.6 Tapered beam 2 (S45)

Creates a built-up beam with I shape. The beam can be tapered or straight. You
can control the size of the spliced material.
Parts created • Web plates
• Top flange plates
• Bottom flange plates

model objects.

Built-up Components
Use for
A simple, straight beam built up from two
flange plates and a web plate.
A tapered beam built-up from several

spliced plates.
The points you pick determine beam
length. You can adjust the length on the
Picture tab.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered beam (S45) dialog box to define the proper-
properties ties of the parts this component creates:

Picture Beam dimensions and location, Picture (S45) (p. 152)
relative to the points picked.
(p. 19)
Picking order 1. Pick a start and end point to indicate beam length:

Built-up Components
Picture (S45)
The Picture tab in the Tapered column (S45) dialog box contains the following
dimensions:

1 Distance from the first point picked to
the end of the beam. Negative value
lengthen the beam, positive values
shorten it.
2 Beam depth at the first end. The height of the web
or the entire beam,
depending on the
option Depth measure
(p. 170).
3 Length of top flange plates. For example, to have

4 Length of web plates. four one-meter sec-
tions, enter 4*1000.
5 Length of bottom flange.
Leave blank to create
the flange or web from
a single plate.
6 Gap between the top flange plates.
7 How much the beam slopes from the Enter a percentage.
horizontal.
8 Gap between the bottom flange plates.

Built-up Components
9 Distance from the last point picked to
the end of the beam. Negative value
lengthen the beam, positive values
shorten it.
10 Beam depth at the second end. The height of the web
or the entire beam,
depending on the
option Depth measure
(p. 170).
See also Use the following options to define beam location and dimensions:
Option See also

Beam position to picked point (p. 169)
Web plate orientation (p. 170)
Beam end alignment (p. 170)
Depth measure (p. 170)

Built-up Components
5.7 Columns
Use these components to automatically create built-up columns:

Tapered column Creates a single built-up col-
(S99) (p. 154) umn, which can be straight or
tapered.
Tapered column 2 Creates a built-up column,

(S44) (p. 157) which can be straight or
tapered. Flange and web plates
can be spliced.
5.8 Tapered column (S99)

Creates a single built-up column, which can be straight or tapered.
Parts created • Vertical web plate
• Vertical outside flange plate
• Inclined inside flange plate
• Top plate
• Flange stiffeners (2)
• Horizontal stiffeners (2)

model objects.

Built-up Components
Use for
A tapered built-up column with a stiffened
corner.
Flange stiffeners
A straight built-up column.
Before you start Ensure that you have a point to pick.

Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered column (S99) dialog box to define the prop-
properties erties of the parts this component creates:

Picture Column dimensions. Picture (S99) (p. 156)
(p. 19)
Parameters Plate sizes, distances and other Parameters (S99)
properties. (p. 157)

Built-up Components
Picking order 1. Pick a point to indicate the location of column:
Picture (S99)
Use the following options on the Picture tab in the Tapered column (S99) dialog
box to define the dimensions of the parts this component creates:
Field Description
1 Extra length for top plate.
2 Extra length for outer flange.
3 Length of horizontal stiffener.
4 Top level of horizontal stiffener.
5 Bottom level of column.
6 Roof slope as a percentage, for example 10.
7 Distance from the top corner to the top of the stiffener.

Built-up Components
Field Description
8 Distance from the top of the stiffener to the inner corner of the
web plate.
9 Web plate width at bottom.
Parameters (S99)
Use the Parameters tab in the Tapered column (S99) dialog box to define the fol-
lowing properties:
Field Description
Outer flange profile Profile size of plates. The file std_flange_plates.dat
Inner flange profile defines the available plate profiles.
Top plate profile
Horizontal stiff-
ener profile
Outer flange splice If the plate is longer than the maximum plate length
distance (defined in std_flange_plates.dat), Tekla Structures
Inner flange splice creates a splice.
distance
Horizontal stiff- Dimension of internal chamfer in horizontal stiffener.
ener chamfer (Default is 15.)
Orientation Rotates the column web relative to the work plane.
5.9 Tapered column 2 (S44)

Creates a welded built-up column, which can be tapered or straight. You can con-
trol the taper and the size of the spliced material.
Parts created • Web plates
• Top flange plates
• Bottom flange plates

model objects.

Built-up Components
Use for
Situation Example
A simple straight column built up from
two flange plates and a web plate.
A more complex tapered column, with

several plates forming the web, top, and
bottom flanges.

Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered column 2 (S44) dialog box to define the
properties properties of the parts this component creates:

Picture Column dimensions and location Similar to Tapered beam
relative to points picked. 2 (S45), see Picture
(S45) (p. 152).
(p. 19)
Picking order 1. Pick the position of the column.

Built-up Components
5.10 Frames
Use the following components to automatically create built-up frames, beams,
and columns:

Tapered frame Creates a built-up frame or
comonor (S53) parts of it. You can control the
(p. 159) taper and the size of the spliced
material.
5.11 Tapered frame comonor (S53)

Creates a built-up frame or parts of it. You can control the taper and the size of
the spliced material.
Parts created • Built-up columns with base plate and end plate (2)
• Built-up beams with end plates (2)
• Built-up beams with end plates (2)

model objects.

Built-up Components
Use for
Beam 1 Built-up frame.
Use the following options:
• Frame options to Column and beams
• Symmetry to Yes
Beam 2
Sloped built-up frame.

• Frame options to Column and beams
• Symmetry to Yes
Only half of the frame.

• Frame options to Column and first
beam
• Symmetry to No
Built-up column with base plate and end

plate.
• Frame options to Column
• Symmetry to No

Built-up Components
Built-up beam (1) with end plates.
• Frame options to First beam
• Symmetry to No
Built-up beam (2) with end plates.
• Frame options to Second beam
• Symmetry to No

Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered frame comonor (S53) dialog box to define
properties the properties of the parts this component creates:

Picture Column dimensions and location Works similar to
relative to points picked. Tapered beam 2 (S45),
see Picture (S45)
(p. 152).
(p. 19)
Column Column dimensions.
Column2 Base plate bolts.
Column3 End plate bolts between column
and beam 1.
Beam1 Beam 1 dimensions.
Beam1_2 End plate bolts between beam 1
and beam 2.
Beam2 Beam 2 dimensions.
Beam2_2 End plate bolts at the hip
between beam 2 and beam 2.
Picking order 1. Pick the position of the column.

2. Tekla Structures creates the frame.

Built-up Components
5.12 Connections and details
Use the following components to automatically create connections and details
for built-up beams and columns:

Tapered beam to Creates a connection between a
column (197) tapered beam and a tapered
(p. 162) column.
Tapered column to Creates a connection between a

beam (199) tapered beam and a tapered
(p. 164) column.
Tapered beam to Creates a connection between

beam (200) tapered beams.
(p. 165)
Tapered column Creates a base plate detail to a

base plate (1068) tapered column.
(p. 167)
5.13 Tapered beam to column (197)

Creates a connection between a tapered beam and a tapered column.
Parts created • Plate to the top of the column
• Stiffeners (2 or 4)
• Plate to the beam flange (optional)

model objects.

Built-up Components
Use for
Situation Example
Connection created using two stiffeners
and flange and column plates. Plates are
connected with four bolts, but you can use
any number.
Connection created using four stiffeners

and a column end plate. Does not create a
separate plate for the beam flange.
Before you start • Create the tapered beam.

• Create the tapered column.
Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered beam to column (197) dialog box to define

Picture Dimensions of end plates and Column fitting option
stiffeners. Location of stiffen- (197) (p. 171)
ers. Options to fit column flange.
Parts Properties of column plate, beam Dimensioning parts
plate and stiffeners. (p. 19)
Bolts Bolt properties, number of bolts, Defining bolts (p. 24)
spacing. Option to create slotted
holes.
(p. 28)
Defining bolt assem-
blies (p. 30)
Number of bolts and
spacing (p. 25)

Built-up Components
Picking order 1. Pick the flange of the beam.
2. Pick the web of the column.
5.14 Tapered column to beam (199)

Creates connection between a tapered beam and a tapered column. All parts are
optional.
To omit a part, set its thickness to 0 on the Parts tab.
Parts created • End plates: to top of column and beam flange (optional)
• Web stiffeners (8) (optional)
• Triangular beam flange stiffener (optional)
• Triangular flange stiffeners (2) (optional)
• Beam web stiffeners (2) (optional)

model objects.
Use for
Situation Example
Beam flange Beam web Connection created using all possi-
stiffener stiffeners ble parts.
Plates are connected using four
bolts, but you can use any number.
Flange
stiffeners
End- Web
plates stiffeners
Before you start • Create the tapered beam.

• Create the tapered column.

Built-up Components
Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered column to beam (199) dialog box to define

ers. Option to fit column flange.
Corner fitting option
(199) (p. 172)
Parts Properties of column plate, beam Dimensioning parts
plate and stiffeners. (p. 19)
holes.
(p. 28)
blies (p. 30)
Number of bolts and
spacing (p. 25)
Picking order 1. Pick the web of the beam.

2. Pick the web of the column.
5.15 Tapered beam to beam (200)

Creates a connection between tapered beams.
To omit a part, set its thickness to 0 on the Parts tab.
Parts created • End plates (2)
• Flange stiffeners (4) (optional)
• Web stiffeners (8) (optional)

model objects.

Built-up Components
Use for
This example is created with all stiffeners
and end plates.
Plates are connected with eight bolts, but
you can use any number.

• Tapered beam
• Another tapered beam
Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered beam to beam (200) dialog box to define the
properties properties of the parts this component creates:

ers. Option to fit column flange.
Parts Properties of end plates, web Dimensioning parts
stiffeners and flange stiffeners. (p. 19)
holes.
(p. 28)
blies (p. 30)
Number of bolts and
spacing (p. 25)
Picking order 1. Pick the flange of the first beam.

2. Pick the flange of the second beam.

Built-up Components
5.16 Tapered column base plate (1068)
Creates a base plate detail to a tapered column.
Parts created • Base plate
• Web stiffeners (4)
• Flange stiffeners (2) (optional)

model objects.
Use for
Situation Example
Detail uses four web stiffeners and with-
out flange stiffeners.
The end plate is connected using four
bolts, but you can use any number.
Detail uses four web stiffeners and two

flange stiffeners.
Before you start Create a tapered column.

Built-up Components
Defining Use the following tabs in the Tapered column base plate (1068) dialog box to
properties define the properties of the parts this component creates:

Picture Dimensions of base plate and Column fitting option
stiffeneres. Location of web (1068) (p. 171)
stiffeners. Option to fit column
flange.
Parts Properties of base plate, web and Dimensioning parts
flange stiffeners. (p. 19)
holes.
(p. 28)
blies (p. 30)
Number of bolts and
spacing (p. 25)
Picking order 1. Pick the tapered column.

2. Pick a point to indicate the location of base plate.
5.17 Tapered component properties

This section describes the options that appear in many of the tapered component
dialog boxes. In the table below, the Option column shows the default option. To
see all available options, click the link in the See also column.
Option Description See also

Position of the beam, rel- Beam position to
ative to the point picked. picked point (p. 169)
Orientation of the web Web plate orientation

plates. (p. 170)
Alignment of beam end Beam end alignment

cut. (p. 170)

Built-up Components
Option Description See also
How the depth of the Depth measure
beam is measured. (p. 170)
Option to fit the flanges Column fitting option

of a tapered column (1068) (p. 171)
(1068).

(197).

(199).
Option to fit corner of Corner fitting option

tapered beam. (199) (p. 172)

of tapered beams (200). (200) (p. 173)
Beam position to picked point

Use the following options to move the beam relative to the point picked. Sepa-
rate options may be available for both beam ends:
Option Description
Moves the beam so that the point is located at the
top of the top flange.
Moves the beam so that the point is located at the

bottom of the top flange.
Moves the beam so that the point is located in the

middle of beam cross-section.

Built-up Components
Web plate orientation
Use one of the following options to set the orientation of web plates for built-up
sections:
Option Description
Web plates cut perpendicular to the top flange.
Web plates cut vertically.
Beam end alignment

Use one of the following options to cut the beam end:
Option Description
Cut is vertical or horizontal.
Cut is perpendicular to top flange.
Cut is relative to the current position of the work

plane.
Depth measure
Use one of the following options to define beam depth:
Option Description
Depth calculated from outer surfaces of top and
bottom flanges.
Depth is the depth of the web.

Built-up Components
Column fitting option (1068)
Use one of the following options to define how the column flange is cut in the
Tapered column base plate (1068) (p. 167) detail:
Option Description
Column flange fitted to be level with the base
plate.
Column flange is perpendicular to column axis.

This option defines how the column flange is cut in the Tapered beam (S98)
(p. 148) connection.
Option Description
Column flange fitted to be level with the end plate.
Column flange perpendicular to column axis.

Built-up Components
This option defines how the column flange is cut in the Tapered column to
beam (199) (p. 164) connection.
Option Description
Column flange fitted to be level with the end plate.
Column flange perpendicular to column axis.
Corner fitting option (199)

This option defines how the corner is cut in the Tapered column to beam (199)
(p. 164) connection.
Option Description
Corner is fitted.
Corner is not fitted.

Built-up Components
This option defines how the column flange is cut in the Tapered beam to beam
(200) (p. 165) connection.
Option Description
Beam flanges fitted to be level with the end plates.
Beam flange perpendicular to beam axis.

Built-up Components
Built-up Components
6 Custom Components
Introduction Tekla Structures contains a set of tools for defining intelligent connections, parts,
and details, called custom components. These tools are easy to use and require
no programming skills. You can create your own components, similar to Tekla
Structures standard components. Tekla Structures creates a dialog box for the
custom component, which you can easily customize, if required.
You can then use custom components in the same way as any standard Tekla
Structures component.
You can also edit custom components to create parametric custom components
that automatically adjust to changes in the model.
Audience This chapter is aimed at people who know how to use Tekla Structures compo-
nents.

Custom Components
Contents This chapter includes the following topics, which are the steps you follow to cre-
ate custom components:
• Defining custom components (p. 176)
• Editing custom components (p. 184)
• Defining variables (p. 189)
• Managing and using custom components (p. 201)
• Custom components reference (p. 210)
6.1 Defining custom components

Introduction You can build custom components either by exploding and modifying an existing
component, or by creating the component objects individually.
You then define a custom component by picking the objects to include in the cus-
tom component, and specifying the information the user needs to input, for
example, main part, secondary parts, or points they need to pick. You can now
apply the custom component in a similar locations in the model to where it was
originally created.
To create a parametric custom component, you need to do some

more editing. For more information, see Editing custom com-
ponents (p. 184).
Use the New custom component dialog box to define the properties of a new cus-
tom component.
To browse a list of custom components:
1. Click the Find a component icon on a component toolbar to open the

Component catalog.
2. Select Custom from the second list box.

Custom Components
Exploding components
Explode component is a very useful command to use when defining custom com-
ponents. It ungroups the objects in an existing component, you can then remove
and modify parts and other objects in the component.
To explode a component:
1. Click Detailing > Explode component.
2. Select the component to explode.
3. Tekla Structures ungroups the objects in the component.
Defining a custom component

You can define and save custom components in the component library.
Before you can define a custom component, you need to create a sample custom
component in the model containing all the necessary component objects, such as
parts, fittings, bolts, etc.
To quickly create a custom component, explode a similar exist-

ing component, then change it to suit your needs.
Follow the steps in the custom component wizard. Some steps

are different for different types of custom component.

Custom Components
Example In the following example we will create a custom component based on an exist-
ing end plate component.
1. Click Detailing > Define custom component to open the following dialog box.
2. On the Type/Notes tab, set Type to Connection. Enter a Name for the custom
component.
3. On the Position and Advanced tabs, set the Position type and other properties
for the custom component.
4. Click Next.

Custom Components
5. Select the objects to use in the custom component and click Next.
You can use area select to

select the objects to
include. Tekla Structures
ignores the main part, sec-
ondary parts, grids and
component symbols when
you are selecting objects
to include in the custom
component.

Custom Components
6. Select the main part and click Next.
7. Select the secondary part(s). To pick several secondary part(s), hold down
the Shift key while you pick the parts.
Pay attention to the order in which you pick secondary parts.

The custom component will use the same picking order when
you use it in a model.

Custom Components
8. Click Finish.
9. Tekla Structures displays a component symbol for the new component.

You have now defined a simple custom component, which you can use in similar
locations to where it was originally created. This component is not parametric
and Tekla Structures does not adjust dimensions to suit any changes in the model.
To create a parametric custom component, see Editing custom components
(p. 184).

Custom Components
Custom component types
Custom component types are:
Type Description Example

Connection Creates connection Main part
objects and con-
nects secondary
part(s) to a main
part. Secondary
part
Detail Creates detail

objects and con-
nects them to a
main part at a
picked location.
Main part
Seam Creates seam

objects and con- Main part
nects two parts
along a line picked
with two points.
Secondary
part
Part Creates a group of

objects which may
contain connec-
tions and details.
Gets no symbol,
has same position
properties as
beams.

Custom Components
Custom component basic properties
Tekla Structures automatically creates each custom component with a set of basic
properties, which we describe in this section. To view the properties of a custom
component:
1. Click the Find a component icon . Tekla Structures displays the Com-
ponent catalog dialog box.
2. Select the custom component from the list.
To list all custom components, select Custom from the second

list box.
3. Right-click the custom component and select Properties... from the pop-up
menu.
Basic properties Custom connections and details have the following basic properties:
of custom
connections and Field Description More information
details
Up direction Rotates the component. Up direction (p. 11)
Definition axis position Defines the location of
component axis.
Class The class of the parts Part properties in the
that the custom compo- Modeling Manual
nent creates.
Connection code Identifies the connec- Mark contents in the
tion. Tekla Structures Drawing Manual
can display this con-
nection code in connec-
tion marks in drawings.
AutoDefaults rule The rule group used for Using AutoDefaults
group setting the connection (p. 34)
properties.
AutoConnection rule The rule group Tekla Using AutoConnec-
group Structures uses to select tion (p. 31)
the connection.

Custom Components
Basic properties Custom parts have the following basic properties:
of custom parts
On plane Changes part location Position on work
on work plane. plane
Rotation Rotates part in steps of Rotation
90 degrees.
At depth Changes part location Position depth
perpendicular to work
plane.
6.2 Editing custom components

Introduction To make a simple custom component parametric, so that it adapts to changes in
the model, you must edit it in the Custom component editor. Here you can build
dependencies between component objects and model objects. For example, you
could specify that the size of a stiffener depends on the size of the beam. So, if
you change the size of the beam, the size of the stiffener also changes. You can
also add distance variables, for example to specify the gap between a plate and a
beam.
Custom component editor

Use the custom component editor to modify custom components and create intel-
ligent, parametric custom components.
First, create a custom component in the model.
Opening the To open the custom component editor:
editor
1. Check that the select switch is active, and then select the custom com-
ponent.
2. Click Detailing > Edit custom component.... The Custom component editor
opens. It shows the Custom component editor toolbar, the Model browser and
four views of the custom component.

Custom Components
Custom The toolbar contains the following icons:
component
toolbar Creates a Plane types Shows all cre- Saves and updates the
distance ated variables existing component(s) in
the model
Creates Creates dis- Displays Saves the custom Closes

user-defined tances auto- Model component with the editor
plane matically Browser another name
Editing You can add and edit many custom component properties:
properties
Editing task More information
Create fields for material grade, Creating parameter variables
profile, bolt size, and other prop- (p. 193)
erties that will be visible in the
custom component dialog box.
Define part dimensions, spacings, Creating distance variables
gaps, etc. that will be visible in (p. 190)
the custom component dialog box.
Bind component objects to model Creating distance variables
objects so that component objects (p. 190)
adjust for new beam size or pro-
file.
Create formulas to calculate val- Creating parameters that use
ues, for example for calculating formulae (p. 195)
bolt edge distance using bolt size.
Library Use the custom component editor to modify custom component. You can open a
component vs. custom component in the editor even if you have already used it in a model.
model
component When you have edited the custom component, you can choose to apply the
changes to all copies of the custom component, or only to the library copy of the
component.
• To apply your changes to the library and to all copies of the custom compo-
nent in the model, use the Save command.
• To only save the changes to the copy of the custom component in the
library, use the Save as command. Tekla Structures does not apply the
changes to the other copies of the custom component in the model.

Custom Components
Closing the editor To close the custom component editor:
1. Click the Close icon .

2. Tekla Structures asks if you want to save the custom component with its
original name.
If you click Yes, Tekla Structures will overwrite the copies of

the custom component in the library and the model.
See also Model browser (p. 187).

Custom Components
Model browser
The model browser shows the contents of a custom component in a hierarchical,
tree-like structure. The model browser works with Custom component editor
views. Click a part in the view and Tekla Structures highlights it in the browser.
Or click a part in the browser to have Tekla Structures highlight it in the view.
The model browser contains the following information about a custom compo-
nent:
Model objects, to which

custom component is
attached.
The objects the cus-

tom component cre-
ates.
You can create links

between custom compo-
nent variables and compo-
nent object properties. .
You can create links between custom component parameter variables and com-
ponent object properties. For example, variable "m" defines the material grade
for all plates in your component. It appears as "Material = m" in the model
browser (see above illustration). "m" is also a field in the custom component dia-
log box. When a user enters a value in the "m" field in the dialog box for plates,
Tekla Structures saves the value to the part properties in the model.

Custom Components
Popup menu You can also use the popup menu in the model browser to copy names, values,
and references from primary and secondary parts in the component. Then use
them in the Variables dialog box to define the properties of custom components.
Copies just the value

the object currently
has.
Copies the link to the property. Link is

dynamic, so when the property later
changes the reference reflects the change.
See also Creating parameter variables (p. 193)

Creating parameters that use formulae (p. 195)

Custom Components
6.3 Defining variables
Variables are the properties of a custom component. Some of them appear in the
custom component dialog box, others are hidden and are only used in calcula-
tions.
There are two types of variable:
Variable type Description See also

Distance Distance between two planes or Creating distance
between point and plane. Binds variables (p. 190)
parts together.
Parameter All other properties, including Creating parameter
name, material grade, bolt size, variables (p. 193)
etc. Also used in calculations.
Creating parame-
ters that use formu-
lae (p. 195)
Viewing variables To see all distance and parameter variables in a component, in the custom com-
ponent editor, click the Display variables icon
.
The Variables dialog box appears:
When you select a distance variable from a list, Tekla Structures highlights it in
the model.
To delete the selected distance or parameter, click Delete.
Custom Components
To add a new parameter variable, click Add.
The bolt size and bolt standard parameters work together.
Creating distance variables

Use distance variables to bind handles, fittings, cuts, etc. to planes, so that the
custom component can adapt to different situations, such as different main pro-
file shapes and sizes.
You can create a distance variable from point to plane or from plane to plane.
These distances can be visible or hidden. Use visible distances when you want
the user to enter a distance value in the custom component dialog box. To simply
bind objects to planes, use hidden distances.
Use the automatic distances command to automatically create

distances for picked objects:
How In this example we will create a distance variable that binds the upper edge of the
end plate to the upper flange of the secondary part. Whenever you create this
custom component in the model, the end plate will follow the upper flange,
regardless of the profile or size the secondary part.
To create the distance variable:
1. Select the object from which to measure the distance. This object will follow
the plane to which you bind it. In this example, select the plate’s topmost
reference point (magenta or yellow)
2. Click the Create plane-point distance icon .

Custom Components
3. Move the mouse cursor over a view to see the available planes.
Highlighted
boundary plane
You can change plane

types before select-
ing the plane.
You can also use Hide command if the plane is not accessible.
4. To create the distance, click when the plane you want to use is highlighted.
Tekla Structures draws a distance symbol in the views of the custom compo-
nent editor. Tekla Structures displays a distance symbol in the custom com-
ponent editor views. You can bind one object to a maximum of three planes.
5. To end the command, right-click and select Interrupt.
Distance
object

Custom Components
6. Double-click the distance object. The Distance properties dialog box
appears.
7. Enter a descriptive Name for the distance.
To test the distance variable, enter different values and click

Modify to see the changes in the model.
8. Click Cancel.
9. To hide or show the distance variable in the dialog box and to set the other
properties, click to open the Variables dialog box.

Limitations You cannot pick points in secondary or primary parts.
You cannot change an existing distance binding. You must delete the distance
and then rebind it.

Custom Components
Binding using magnetic user planes
You can bind several objects at one time using magnetic user planes. The objects
directly on a magnetic plane will move with the plane. So you only need to create
a distance variable for the plane and not for each object separately.
As you can see from the example below, it is much easier and faster to use mag-
netic user planes than to bind handles with individual distance variables.
Example Different methods of binding chamfers to the inner face of a flange:
Option 1: Control the

stiffeners by using 4 mag-
netic user planes - one in
each direction. Then you
only bind each magnetic
plane with one distance
variable.
Option 2: Bind each
chamfer separately - a total
of 32 bindings.
For more information on magnetic user planes, read User-defined planes in the
online help.
Contour plates do not have handles, so the only way to control

the position of contour plates is to use magnetic planes. The
plate position At depth must be Middle and the magnetic plane
must be located in the middle of plate.
Creating parameter variables

You can use parameter variables to set basic properties for objects that custom
component creates, for example, name, material, profile, position number, etc.
Example In this example we create a parameter variable "Weldsize" that sets all welds in a
custom component to a given size:
1. On the Custom component editor toolbar, click to open the Variables

dialog box.
2. Click the Add button.

Custom Components
3. Enter following information:
• Name = Weldsize
• Formula =
• Value = 0.0
• Variable type = parameter
• Value type = length
• Visibility = Show (this makes Weldsize visible in the dialog box)
• Label in dialog box = WeldSize
4. Click OK button to close the dialog box.
5. In the Model browser, click Component objects > Weld > General properties
and right-click Size above line and select Add equation. Type after the equal
sign "Weldsize". Repeat this step for all welds.
6. Click Save.
7. Click Close icon to exit the Custom component editor.
Your custom component dialog box should now contain the field WeldSize. When
anyone creates the component, all welds are of the size you enter in the WeldSize
field.

Custom Components
Creating parameters that use formulae
This example shows how to create a hidden parameter variable that includes a
formula to set weld size to half the thickness of the secondary part flange. This
variable will not be visible in the custom component dialog box. When you cre-
ate the component, Tekla Structures uses the thickness of the secondary part
flange to calculate the size of the weld(s).
1. In the Model browser, click Input objects > Secondary parts > Part > Profile
properties and right-click Flange thickness 1 and then select Copy reference.
Tekla Structures copies the reference to secondary part flange thickness to
the Windows Clipboard.
2. In the Custom component editor toolbar, click to open the Variables

dialog box.
3. Click Add button.
4. Set Variable name to w.

Custom Components
5. Click the Formula field, type =, then right-click and select Paste. Tekla
Structures pastes the reference to flange thickness from the Clipborad. Now
enter *0.5. Formula should now read:
=fP(Flange thickness 1.1525)*0.5.
6. Set other values:

• Variable type = Parameter
• Value type =Length
• Visibility = Hide
7. In the Model browser, click Component Objects > Weld > General properties
and right-click Size above line and select Add equation. Type in after the
equal sign "w".
8. Click OK button to close the dialog box.
Functions to use in formulae

This section lists all the functions you can use in formulae in custom compo-
nents. Formulae always begin with the equals character (=). You can use the fol-
lowing functions in formulae:
Reference function
A reference function refers to the property of another object, such as the plate
thickness of a secondary part. Tekla Structures refers to the object on the system
level, so if the object property changes, so does the reference function value.
fP(propertyname, ObjectId)

Custom Components
To ensure the function includes the correct parameters, cut and paste it from the
model browser:
1. Right-click the property in the model browser and select Copy reference.
2. Right-click the Formula cell in the Variables dialog box and select Paste.
Arithmetic operators
You can also use the following arithmetic operators:
Operator Description Notes

+ addition Use also to create strings of parame-
ters.
- subtraction
* multiplication Multiplication is faster than division,
so it is faster to use
=D1*0.5
rather than
=D1/2.
/ division
Logical statement
You can use if-then-else statements to test a condition and set the value accord-
ing to the result:
=if (D1>200) then 20 else 10 endif
You can also use the operators && (the logical AND operator) and || (the logical
OR operator) inside the if statement.
• && - both conditions must be true
• || only one condition must be true
For example to use a value 6:
• =if (D1==200 && D2<40) then 6 else 0 endif
D1 must be 200 and D2 must be less than 40.
• =if (D1==200 || D2<40) then 6 else 0 endif
D1 must equal 200, or D2 must be less than 40.

Custom Components
Mathematical functions
The mathematical functions are:
Name Description Example

fabs(parameter) Returns the absolute fabs(D1) returns 15
value of the specified
if D1 = -15
parameter.
exp(power) Returns e raised to the exp(D1) returns 7.39
specified power.
if D1=2
ln(parameter) Natural logarithm of the ln(P2) returns 2.71
specified parameter (base
if P2=15
number neper).
log(parameter) Returns the logarithm of log(D1) returns 2
the specified parameter
if D1=100
(base number 10).
sqrt(parameter) Returns the square root sqrt(D1) returns 4
of the specified parame-
if D1=16
ter.
mod(dividend, Modulo mod(D1, 5) returns 1
divider)
if D1=16
pow(base number, Returns base number pow(D1, D2) returns 9
power) raised to the specified
if D1=3 D2=2
power.
hypot(side1,side2) hypot(D1, D2) returns 5
hypotenuse
side1 if D1=3 D2=4
side2
n!() Factorial n!(4) returns 24
(=1*2*3*4)
round(parameter, Round off according to round(P1, 0.1) returns
accuracy) given accuracy. 10.600
if P1=10.567

Custom Components
Statistical functions
The statistical functions are:
Name Description Example (P1=1.4 P2=2.3)

ceil() Returns the smallest whole num- ceil(P1) returns 2
ber greater than or equal to the
specified parameter.
floor() Returns the largest whole num- floor(P1) returns 1
ber less than or equal to the
specified parameter.
min() Returns the smallest of specified min(P1, P2) returns 1.4
parameters.
max() Returns the largest of specified max(P1, P2) returns 2.3
parameters.
sum() Sum of specified parameters sum(P1, P2) returns 3.7
sqsum() Sum of squared parameters: sqsum(P1, P2) returns 7.25
(parameter1)2 + (parameter2)2
ave() Average of parameters ave(P1, P2) returns 1.85
sqave() Average of squared parameters. sqave(P1, P2) returns 3.625
Data type conversions

Conversion functions perform conversions between the three supported data
types, integers, doubles and strings.
Name Description
int() Conversion to integer. This is useful espe-
cially for calculating profile dimensions:
100.0132222000 -> 100
double() Converts data to a double
string() Converts data to string

Custom Components
String operations
Include string parameters inside double quotation marks within the argument list
of string operations.
Name Description Example

(P1="PL100*10")
match(parameter1 Returns 1 if parameters match(P1, "PL100*10")
, parameter2) are equal and 0 if differ- returns 1
ent.
length(parameter) Returns the number of length(P1) returns 8
characters in the parame-
ter.
find(parameter, Returns the order number find(P1, "*") returns 5
string) (starting at zero) of the
specified string and -1 if
the specified string is not
found from the parameter.
getat(parameter, Returns the n:th (starting getat(P1, 1) returns "L"
n) at zero) character from the
parameter.
setat(parameter, n, Sets the n:th (starting at setat(P1, 0, "B") returns
character) zero) character to the "BL100*10"
specified character in the
parameter.
mid(string, n, x) Returns x characters from mid(P1,2,3) returns
the given string starting
"100"
from n:th (starting at zero)
character. If you leave out
the last argument (x),
returns the last part of the
string.
reverse(string) Reverses the given string. reverse(P1) returns
"01*001LP"
When you handle strings in formulas, you must use quotation marks. For exam-
ple, to define profile size PL100*10 with two variables P2=100 and P3=10 enter
the formula as follows:
="PL"+P2+"*"+P3

Custom Components
Tekla Structures handles bolt spacings as strings. To define bolt
spacing, select variable type to distance list and enter the for-
mula like this:
=P1+" "+P2
This results in 100 200, if P1=100 (length) and P2=200 (length).
Trigonometric functions
You can include trigonometric functions in the formulae. Be sure to include the
unit using the following prefixes. If you do not include a prefix, Tekla Structures
uses radians as the default unit:
• d is degree. For example sin (d180)
• r is radians (Default). For example sin (r3.14) or sin (3.14)
Name Description
sin() Sine
cos() Cosine
tan() Tangent
asin() Inverse function of sin(), return value in radians
acos() Inverse function of cos(), return value in radians
atan() Inverse function of tan(), return value in radians
sinh() Hyperbolical sine
cosh() Hyperbolical cosine
tanh() Hyperbolical tangent
atan2(,) Returns the angle whose tangent is the quotient of
two specified numbers. Return value in radians
6.4 Managing and using custom components

This section describes the custom component dialog box and explains how to use
and manage custom components.

Custom Components
Custom component dialog box
Tekla Structures automatically creates a dialog box when you define a custom
component. By default the dialog box has a General tab for connections, details,
and seams and a Position tab for parts.
Tekla Structures automatically creates tabs containing the parameters and dis-
tances you set to visible in the custom component editor. Tabs are named Param-
eter 1, Parameter 2, etc. Each tab can contain up to 25 fields. If you have more
than 25 visible fields, Tekla Structures creates another tab.
A typical custom component dialog box looks like this:
This infor-
mation
relates only
to details.
Tekla Structures creates an input file with the extension .inp for each dialog box
in the model folder. You can modify the input file.
If you modify the input file, then edit and save the custom com-
ponent dialog box using the custom component editor, you will
lose the changes you made to the input file.

Custom Components
Customizing the dialog box
To customize the dialog box that Tekla Structures creates for the custom compo-
nent you need to modify the input file which defines the dialog box. The input
file has the same name as the custom component and file extension inp. It is
located in the model folder.
This topic is for advanced users. Take care when modifying an

input file. Errors may cause the dialog box to disappear.
The input file is a text file that you can edit using any text editor, for example
Notepad.
You can customize the dialog box by:
• Changing the order of fields (p. 204)
• Changing the location of fields (p. 205)
• Renaming tabs (p. 206)
• Adding more tabs (p. 207)
• Adding pictures (p. 208)
To use the modified custom component dialog box, save the

input file, then close and restart Tekla Structures.

Custom Components
Changing the order of fields
To change the order of fields, in the input file, change the last number in the
parameter definition, as shown below:
Change these numbers to change the

order of fields (listed from to bottom
of dialog box)

Custom Components
Changing the location of fields
To change the location of fields, in the input file, change the last number in the
parameter definition. Enter three numbers to define the exact location of the field
in the dialog box: the x coordinate, y coordinate, and length of field. The exam-
ple below shows these values for the second field in the dialog box:
y = 25
x = 374
length = 160

Custom Components
Renaming tabs
To rename a tab, change the tab definition in the input file. You can rename any
tab except the General tab. In the example below, you would change the text
Parameters 1 to the new tab name (for example, Parts):

Custom Components
Adding more tabs
Each tab can contain 25 fields. If there are more than 25 visible fields, Tekla
Structures creates another tab. You can also add tabs by modifying the input file.
To add a second tab, edit the input file as shown below. Remember to adjust the
location of the fields, if necessary.
Remember to
adjust the field
location.
The fourth tab is reserved for the General properties, so you

cannot add your own parameter to it.

Custom Components
Adding pictures
Add images to make your custom component easier to use. First create the image
and save it as a bitmap file (file extension bmp)in the C:\Tekla Struc-
tures\10.0\nt\bitmaps folder. To add the image to the custom component dialog
box, edit the input file as shown below:
y = 100
x = 50 height
= 75
width = 100
The first pixel in the top left corner of a bitmap must be the
same color (gray) as the background of the dialog box.
Using a custom component

To use a custom component in a model:
1. Use the keystrokes Ctrl + F to open the Component catalog dialog box.
2. Select Custom from the second list box. Tekla Structures lists all available
custom components to the list.
3. Double-click a custom component in the list to open it’s properties dialog
box..
4. Enter the properties you want to use and click Apply.
5. Tekla Structures prompts you to pick the parts or points and parts needed to
create the component.

Custom Components
Managing custom components
Use the Component catalog to manage custom components. To open the Compo-
nent catalog, use:
• keystrokes Ctrl + F or
• the Find a component icon on a components toolbar
To find all available cus-

tom components, select
Custom from the list box.
All custom components

have always number
-1.
To view the custom compo-

nent’s properties, right-click its
name and click Properties.
Exporting and importing

You can export custom components to a file, and then import the file into another
model.
Exporting To export custom components to a file:
1. Select the custom components in the component catalog.
2. Right-click and select Export.... The Export components dialog box opens.
3. Enter a name for the file in the Selection field. By default, the file extension
is .uel and the file is located in the current model folder.

Custom Components
Importing To import custom components from a file:
1. Right-click the list in the component catalog and select Import.... The Import
components dialog box opens.
2. Browse to find the exported file (*.uel), click the file name and then click
OK.
6.5 Custom components reference

The following table lists the commands used to define, create, and manage cus-
tom components. For detailed instructions, see the online help.

Define custom component Starts the custom component wizard
which guides you through defining a
custom component.
Variables Displays a list of distance and parame-
ter variables.
Distance properties The command to create distance vari-

ables.
Automatic distances Automatically generates distance vari-

ables for custom component objects.
Plane types Defines which planes can be selected.

User-defined plane The command to create your own plane.

Custom Components
B Connection Map
Introduction This appendix contains example illustrations of different connections, grouped

according to their usage.
Contents This appendix is divided into the following sections:
• Beam to beam framing (p. 211)
• Beam to column framing (p. 220)
• Splice connections (p. 230)
• Joist connections (p. 234)
• Vertical member to beam (p. 235)
• Bracing connections (p. 237)
• Welded connections (p. 246)
• Details (p. 248)
Beam to beam framing

Shear tabs
Full depth shear plate - secondary beam
cut short of primary member.
Use connection Beam with stiffener (129)
on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Full depth shear plate -secondary mem-
ber sloped and/or skewed.
Use connection Beam with stiffener (129)
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam.

Use connection Shear plate simple (146)
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam - bolt elimina-

tion option.
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam - skewed sec-

ondary member.
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam - sloped (and

skewed) secondary member. Bolts and
plate oriented with secondary member.
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to beam - sloped and

skewed secondary member. Valley con-
dition.
on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Simple shear tab to beam - sloped and
skewed secondary member. Valley con-
dition.
on toolbar 1.
Partial depth shear tab to top flange of

beam - square or skewed, stiffener
option.
Use connection Welded to top flange
(147) on toolbar 1.

beam. Sloped/ square or skewed.
Use connection Welded to top flange
(147) on toolbar 1.

beam, secondary beam cut short of pri-
mary member. Square, sloped, skewed.
Use connection Welded to top flange S
(149) on toolbar 1.
Full depth shear tab. Square, sloped,

skewed.
Use connection Full depth (184) on tool-
bar 1.
Full depth shear tab. Secondary beam

cut short of primary member.
Use connection Full depth S (185) on
toolbar 1.

Connection Map
cut short of primary member. Sloped
secondary.
toolbar 1.

cut short of primary member. Sloped
and skewed secondary (hip &valley).
toolbar 1.

cut short of primary member. Second-
ary offset. Bolt elimination option.
toolbar 1.
Clip angles
Clip angle connection – single sided
clip/double sided clip.
Use connection Clip angle (141) on tool-
bar 1.

clip/double sided clip. Sloped second-
ary member. Various notching options.
bar 1.

Connection Map
clip/double sided clip. Weld prep
option.
bar 1.

clip/double sided clip. Sloped second-
ary member.
bar 1.

clip/double sided clip. Two secondary
members. Bolted/bolted, welded/bolted,
welded/welded options.
Use connection Two sided clip angle
(143) on toolbar 1.

members at differing heights.
(143) on toolbar 1.

members. Safety connection.
(143) on toolbar 1.

members. One sloped.
(143) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
End plates
End plate connection - level or sloped,
square or skewed secondary member.
Various notching options.
Use connection End plate (144) on tool-
bar 1.
End plate connection – extended plate

with or without haunches.
bar 1.
End plate connection – two secondaries.

Automatic notch for bolt clearance.
Use connection Two sided end plate
(142) on toolbar 1.
End plate connection – two secondaries

at differing heights.
(142) on toolbar 1.

Square and /or skewed.
(142) on toolbar 1.

Safety connection.
(142) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Level and/or sloped.
(142) on toolbar 1.
Bent plate
Bent plate connection – skewed or
square secondary, plate near side and
far side.
Use connection Bent plate (190) on tool-
bar 1.

square secondary, plate one side.
bar 1.

square secondary, plate one side. Vari-
ous plate placing options.
bar 1.
Bent plate connection – skewed and

sloped (Hip & Valley).
bar 1.

Connection Map
Bearing type
Beam to beam bearing connection.
Options for 1,2,3, or 4 bolts.
Use connection Seating (30) on toolbar
7.

Spacer option.
7.

Brace support.
7.
Beam to beam bearing connection with

stub column. Square, sloped and
skewed conditions.
Use connection Cross (4) on toolbar 7.
Beam to beam bearing clamp type con-

nection.
Use connection Seating with nail (36) on
toolbar 7.
Beam to beam bearing purlin connec-

tion to single purlin.
Use connection Purlin connections (93)
on toolbar 7.

Connection Map
Beam to beam bearing purlin connec-
tion to two purlins.
Use connection Purlin connections (93)
on toolbar 7.
Beam to beam bearing notched seating

connection. Square and skewed condi-
tions.
Use connection Notched seating (9) on
toolbar 7.
Beam to beam bearing tube steel rails to

primary member. Cope or hole bolt
access options.
Use connection Tube rail (113) on toolbar
7.
Beam to beam bearing notched seat

with angle.
Use connection Rail joint (70) on toolbar
12.
Beam to beam bearing rafter connection

to two secondary members. Notching
required.
12.

to two secondary members. Plate.
Notching required.
12.

to two secondary members. Sloped/
level notching required.
12.

Connection Map
Beam to beam full bearing rafter con-
nection to two secondary members.
Plate.
Use connection Cold rolled overlap (1)
on toolbar 13.

Angle.
on toolbar 13.

Knee brace option.
on toolbar 13.
Beam to column framing

Shear tabs
Simple shear tab to column flange.
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to edge/column flange.

on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Simple shear tab to column flange with
seat angle options.
on toolbar 1.
Simple shear tab to column flange. Bolt

elimination options.
on toolbar 1.
Shaped shear plate with column stiffen-

ers.
Use connection Column with stiffeners
W (182) on toolbar 1.

ers. Sloped secondary.

ers. Bolts aligned with secondary mem-
ber.

ers. Bolt elimination option.
Shear plate with column stiffeners.

(186) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Sloped secondary.
(186) on toolbar 1.

Skewed secondary.
(186) on toolbar 1.
Shear plate to column flange with col-

umn stiffeners.
(188) on toolbar 1.
Shear plate to column flange with col-

umn stiffeners. Weld prep and rat holes
for moment connection option.
(188) on toolbar 1.
Bolted moment connection to column

flange with column stiffeners.
Use connection Bolted moment connec-
tion (134) on toolbar 1.

web.

web. Sloped secondary member.

Connection Map
Welded moment connection to column
flange. Beam weld prep and rat hole
options.
Use connection Moment connection
(181) on toolbar 1.
Welded moment connection to column

flange. Sloped.
Use connection Moment connection
(181) on toolbar 1.
Shear plate through tube column.

Use connection Shear plate tube column
(189) on toolbar 1.
Shear plate through tube column. Two

secondaries.
(189) on toolbar 1.

secondaries. Plate extended to top of
column option.
(189) on toolbar 1.

secondaries, level and/or sloped. Bolt
alignment options.
(189) on toolbar 1.
Shear plate through tube column. Third

secondary member after connection
applied to original two secondaries.
(189) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Clip angles
Clip angle connection to column flange
or web. Single sided /double sided clip.
Welded/bolted, bolted/bolted, welded/
welded options.
bar 1.

Sloped secondary. Square or bevel cut
secondary options.
bar 1.

Weld prep and rat holes for moment
connection.
bar 1.
Clip angle connection to column knife

connection. Bottom flange blocked or
stripped for erection.
bar 1.
Clip angle connection to column. Seat

angle option. Top/Bottom/Both.
bar 1.

Haunch extension option. Top/Bottom/
Both.
bar 1.

Connection Map
Rotated secondary
bar 1.
Clip angle connection. Single sided /

double sided clip. Two secondary mem-
bers. Bolted/bolted, welded/bolted,
welded/welded options.
(143) on toolbar 1.

bers. Haunch extension option. Top/
Bottom/Both.
(143) on toolbar 1.

bers. Weld prep and rat holes for
moment connection.
(143) on toolbar 1.
Clip angle connection. Automatic

notching of secondary member to pro-
vide bolt clearance.
(143) on toolbar 1.

bers rotated.
(143) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
End plates
End plate connection to column flange
or web. Level or sloped, square or
skewed secondary member
bar 1.
Full depth end plate connection to col-

umn flange or web. Level or sloped,
square or skewed secondary member.
bar 1.
End plate connection to column web.

Extended plate with haunches option.
bar 1.
End plate connection to column flange.

Column stiffener option.
bar 1.
End plate connection to column. Sec-

ondary member rotated.
bar 1.
End plate connection. Two secondaries.

Automatic notching for bolt clearance.
Haunch option.
Use connection Two sided end palte
(142) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
Bent plate
Bent plate connection to column flange.
Skewed or square secondary. Plate Near
side\Far side\Both sides.
bar 1.
Bent plate connection to column web.

Skewed or square secondary. Plate Near
side\Far side\Both sides.
bar 1.
Welded tee
Welded tee to column.
Use connection Welded tee (32) on tool-
bar 2.
Seated connection
Beam seat with stiffeners.
Use connection Rail joint (170) on tool-
bar 12.
Beam seat top and bottom with stiffen-

ers. Various bolting options.
bar 12.

Connection Map
Beam seat. Multiple stiffener options.
bar 12.
Beam seat. Offset secondary member.

bar 12.
Bearing type cap plate

Beam cantilever over column with cap
plate.
Use connection U.S. Base plate joint (71)
on toolbar 5.

plate. Sloped secondary.
on toolbar 5.

plate. Beam stiffener option.
on toolbar 5.

plate. Column stiffener option.
on toolbar 5.

Connection Map
Two beams to column cap plate. Beam
stiffener options.
7.
Beam column cap plate. Tube steel rails

to primary member. Cope or hole bolt
access options.
Use connection Column tube seating
(100) on toolbar 7.
Wind column to beam connection.

Use connection Wind column (5) on tool-
bar 12.
Wind column to beam connection. Plate

offset option
Use connection Wind column (5) on tool-
bar 12.
Girt to column
Single girt to column. Angle connec-
tion.
12.
Two girts to column. Angle connection.

12.

Connection Map
Beam to column outrigger connection.
Primary and secondary member stiff-
ener options.
Use connection Stub (28) on toolbar 12.
Two girts to column. WT connection.

Use connection U.S. seat joint 3 (74) on
toolbar 12.
Splice connections
Beam to beam
Clip angle splice connection. Bolted/
bolted, welded/bolted, welded/welded
options.
(143) on toolbar 1.
Clip angle splice connection. One sided.

Bolted/bolted, welded/bolted, welded/
welded options.
(143) on toolbar 1.
Clip angle splice connection. Beams in

differing planes.
(143) on toolbar 1.

Connection Map
To make a clip angle type splice connection it is necessary to
create a "dummy" primary part to bolt through. The beams to be
spliced will be the secondary members.
Make the "dummy" plate 1/8" thick with special properties so
that it can be filtered out when making drawings. Use the set-
tings shown below on the Picture tab.
Beam to beam web splice plate welded

to primary/ bolted to secondary.
Use connection Tab plate (33) on toolbar
8.

to primary/ bolted to secondary. Beams
in differing planes.
8.

to primary/ bolted to secondary. Mem-
bers rotated.
8.
Beam to beam web splice plate bolted

to both members. Both members in
same plane.
Use connection Column splice (42) on
toolbar 8.
Beam to beam end plate splice.

Use connection Joining plates (14) on
toolbar 8.

Connection Map
Beam to beam end plate splice. Mem-
bers of different depths.
Use connection Joining plates (14) on
toolbar 8.
Beam to beam welded splice. Stair

stringer to landing.
Use connection Cranked beam (41) on
toolbar 7.
Note: Does not work on very shallow
slopes, or beams in same plane.
Beam to beam bolted end plate splice.

toolbar 7.
Beam to beam bolted end plate splice

with haunch.
toolbar 7.
Beam to beam bolted end plate splice

with haunch stiffener plate option.
toolbar 7.
Beam to beam welded splice, "Z" cut.

Use connection Offshore Z (192) on tool-
bar 8.

Connection Map
Beam to beam welded splice, "Z"
square cut.
Use connection Offshore Z (192) on tool-
bar 8.
Column splice
Column splice. Bolted to both mem-
bers. Both members in same plane.
toolbar 8.

bers. Shim plates for differing profiles.
toolbar 8.

bers. Lifting hole option.
toolbar 8.
Column splice with division plate and

connection angles.
toolbar 8.

Connection Map
Joist connections
Joist to beam/ Joist to column
Joist bearing on beam.
Use connection Joist to beam, type 1
(160) on toolbar 12.
Joist bearing on beam. Top chord exten-

sion option.
Use connection Joist to beam, type 1
Joist bearing to column. Cap plate, sta-

bilizer bar or angle option. Top chord
extension option also available.
Use connection Joist to column, type 1
Two joists bearing to column. Cap

plate, stabilizer bar or angle option.
Use connection 2 sided joist to column
Two joists bearing to column. Cap

plate, cap plate level or on slope of
joists.
Use connection 2 sided joist to column
Joist framing to side of column. Stabi-

lizer bar or angle option.

Connection Map
Joist framing to side of column. Seat
angle across toes of flanges.
Joist framing to joist girders at column.

Use connection Joist to beam and col-
umn (164) on toolbar 12.
Vertical member to beam

Post and door jamb to top of beam
Post base plate to top of beam. Primary
and secondary stiffener options.
Use connection U.S. base plate joint (71)
on toolbar 5.
Simple shear tab to post or channel

jamb.
on toolbar 1.
Clip angle to channel jamb.

bar 1.

Connection Map
Clip angle to railing post.
Use connection Stringer stanchion L pro-
file (68) on toolbar 11.
Railing post connection plate to beam

stiffener.
Use connection Stringer stanchion st
(69) on toolbar 11
Railing post elbow to connection plate.

Use connection Stanchion curved (84) on
toolbar 11.
Shear tab to railing post.

Use connection Stanchion side profile
(86) on toolbar 11.
Built–up plate railing post connection.

Use connection Stanchion double plate
(87) on toolbar 11.
Hangers from underside of beam

Clip angle hanger connection.
bar 1.

Connection Map
Simple shear tab hanger connection.
on toolbar 1.
Bracing connections
Simple gusset plate connections
Gusset plate to single brace. Horizontal
and vertical bracing. Various bracing
profiles.
Use connection Bolted gusset (11) on
toolbar 4.
Load connection attribute < Defaults >
and select Defaults for Rule Group for
best results.
Gusset plate to single brace. Horizontal

and vertical bracing. Hollow round
brace with pin bolt option.
toolbar 4.
best results.
Gusset plate to single brace. Brace and

primary member at same elevation
toolbar 4.

Connection Map
Gusset plate to single brace at base plate
of column.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate hollow section "Birds

mouth" connection to secondary mem-
bers.
Use connection Tube gusset (20) on
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate hollow section tongue

plate connection to secondary members.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate to twin profile brace. Verti-

cal or horizontal brace. Multiple brac-
ing members.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate to twin profile brace. Twin

profile primary member. Weld or bolt to
primary.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate with connection plate.

Bolted to primary option.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate with connection plate.

Bolted to primary option. Various gus-
set plate shaping options.
toolbar 4.

Connection Map
Gusset plate to hollow section brace.
Pin bolt and tension angle option.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate to hollow section brace.

Pin bolt and tension angle option.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate to WT section brace.

Notching option.
toolbar 4.
best results.
Gusset plate through hollow section

column to hollow section bracing at
base plate.
toolbar 4.
Select column, then brace and brace.

column to WT bracing at base plate.
toolbar 4.

column to angle bracing at base plate.
Single or twin profile.
toolbar 4.

Connection Map
Wrapped gusset plate W section brac-
ing. Various bracing connection
options. Welded/bolted, bolted/bolted.
Use connection Gusset wrapped cross
(62) on toolbar 4.

ing. Various bracing connection
options. Welded/bolted, bolted/bolted.
(62) on toolbar 4.

ing. Various bracing connection options
for each brace.
(62) on toolbar 4.

ing. Various gusset plate connection
options.
(62) on toolbar 4.
Hollow section bracing tongue plate

connection to existing gusset plate.
Use connection Tube crossing (22) on
toolbar 4.
Wrapped gusset W section bracing con-

nection to existing gusset plate.
Use connection Wrapped cross (61) on
toolbar 4.
Hollow section bracing WT end con-

nection to existing gusset plate.
Use connection Portal bracing (105) on
toolbar 4.

Connection Map
Bolted brace connection to existing gus-
set plate.
Use connection Bracing cross (19) on
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate at "X" bracing cross

Gusset plate WT section bracing.
toolbar 4.
Load connection < Defaults > properties
and select Defaults for Rule group for
best results.
Gusset plate angle bracing to angle or

other type of section.
toolbar 4.
best results.
Gusset plate to top of primary and mul-

tiple bracings.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate through hollow section pri-

mary to multiple bracings.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate bolted to top of primary

and multiple bracings.
toolbar 4.

Connection Map
Gusset plate hollow section bracing.
Tongue plate connection to secondary
members.
toolbar 4.
Gusset plate hollow section bracing. Pin

bolt to secondary members.
toolbar 4.
best results.
Gusset plate hollow section "Birds

mouth" connection to secondary mem-
bers.
toolbar 4.
Load connection attribute"birdsmouth".
Gusset plates top and bottom to W sec-

tion bracing.
Use connection Diagonal splice (53) on
toolbar 4.
Gusset plates top and bottom to W sec-

tion bracing. Gusset welded to primary
member.
Use connection Diagonal splice (53) on
toolbar 4.

Connection Map
Corner bracing gusset (boomerang)
Corner gusset plate connection for ver-
tical or horizontal bracing.
Use connection Boomerang bracing
cross (60) on toolbar 4.

best results.
Corner gusset plate connection. Pin bolt

option for hollow section brace.

best results.
Corner gusset plate connection. Multi-

ple braces supported (9-max.).
Corner gusset plate connection. Vari-

ous plate cutting and connection
options.
Corner gusset plate connection. Primary

members at differing elevations.
Bracing connection at column base

plate.
Select base plate as secondary primary

member.

Connection Map
Corner gusset plate to hollow section
bracing. Members with tongue plate
connection.
Use connection Boomerang tube diago-
nal (59) on toolbar 4.
Corner gusset plate to hollow section

bracing. Members with "Birds mouth"
connection.
Use connection Boomerang tube diago-
nal (59) on toolbar 4.
Wrapped corner gusset plate to W sec-

tion bracing members.
Use connection Boomerang wrapped
diagonal (58) on toolbar 4.
Wrapped corner gusset plate to hollow

section bracing members. Angles top
and bottom.
Use connection Boomerang wrapped
diagonal (58) on toolbar 4.
Corner gusset plate welded to extended

end plate. Pin bolt option for hollow
section bracing.
Use connection Corner bolted gusset
(57) on toolbar 4.
Select end plate as secondary primary

member.

end plate. Various bracing sections sup-
ported.
Use connection Corner bolted gusset
(57) on toolbar 4.

member.

Connection Map
end plate. Tongue plate to hollow sec-
tion bracing.
Use connection Corner tube gusset (56)
on toolbar 4.
member.
Wrapped corner gusset plate welded to

extended end plate for W section brac-
ing.
Use connection Corner wrapped gusset
(63) on toolbar 4.

member.
Wrapped corner gusset plate. Welded to

ing. Angles to bracing flange only
option.
(63) on toolbar 4.

member.
Wrapped corner gusset plate. Welded to

ing. Web connection plate only option.
(63) on toolbar 4.
member.
Rod bracing
Rod bracing through web of primary
member.
Use connection Windbracing (1) on tool-
bar 4.

Connection Map
Turnbuckle between two rods.
Use connection Muffe (26) on toolbar 8.
Rod bracing bent plate connection.

Use connection Diagonal brace connec-
Rod bracing bent plate connection.

Bolted to primary member.
Use connection Diagonal brace connec-
Welded connections
Beam to beam
Welded beam to beam.
Use connection Fitting (13) on toolbar 3.
Welded beam to beam with horizontal

stiffeners.
Use connection Fitting (13) on toolbar 3.

Connection Map
Welded beam to beam with primary.
Vertical stiffeners.
Use connection Welded beam to beam
(123) on toolbar 3.
Welded beam to beam with haunch.

Use connection Offshore (194) on tool-
bar 3.

Various haunch options.
bar 3.

Various haunch options.
bar 3.
Welded round profile to round profile.

Use connection Round tube (23) on tool-
bar 3.
Welded round profile to round profile

Differing profile size and skewed sec-
ondary.
Use connection Round tube (23) on tool-
bar 3.

Connection Map
Beam to column
Welded to column with weld prep and
stiffener options.
Use connection Welded column with
stiffeners (128) on toolbar 3.
Welded to column.
Use connection Welded column (31) on
toolbar 3.
Details
Base plates
Column base plate with grout hole
option.
Use connection U.S. base plate (1047) on
toolbar 5.
Column base plate with shear key

option.
toolbar 5.
Column base plate with stiffener option.

toolbar 5.

Connection Map
Offset column base plate (shear key and
grout hole optional).
toolbar 5.
Column base plate bolt elimination and

interior corner chamfer option.
toolbar 5.
Column base plate located from face of

flange.
Use connection Base plate (1042) on
toolbar 5.
Circular column base plate with stiff-

ener option.
Use connection Circular base plates
Horizontal base plate to sloped post.

Use connection Base plate (1053) on
toolbar 5.
Stiffeners
Stiffener plate detail to column.
Use connection Stiffeners (1003) on tool-
bar 5.

Connection Map
Stiffener plate detail to beam.
bar 5.
Partial depth stiffener plate detail to

beam.
bar 5.
Partial depth stiffener plate detail to col-

umn.
bar 5.
Parallel stiffener plates.

Use connection Horizontal stiffener
Flange stiffener plates.

bar 5.
Stiffened notch.
Use connection Stiffened notch (1006) on
toolbar 5.
Stiffened notch. Notch cut on bevel to

member.
Use connection Stiffened notch (1006) on
toolbar 5.

Connection Map
Manlock holes and lifting lugs
Manlock holes in column.
Use connection Manlock column (1032)
on toolbar 6.
Manlock holes in beam.

Use connection Manlock beam (1033) on
toolbar 6.
Lifting lug to beam.

Use connection Lifting/alignment pieces
Lifting lug to beam chamfered plate.

Use connection Lifting/alignment pieces
Seat details
Plate seat with stiffeners.
Use connection Stub plate (1013) on
toolbar 12.
Angle seat with stiffener.

Use connection Angle profile box (1040)
on toolbar 12.

Connection Map
Angle seat with stiffener. Bolt to pri-
mary and through seat options.
Use connection U.S. seat detail (1048) on
toolbar 12.
Angle seat with stiffener. Bolt to pri-

mary placed at a given distance apart.
Use connection U.S. seat detail (1048) on
toolbar 12.
WT seat detail.
Use connection U.S. seat detail 2 (1049)
on toolbar 12.
Rotated angle seat. Stiffener plate

option available.
Use connection U.S. seat detail 2 (1049)
on toolbar 12.
Cap plate and bearing plate

Bearing plate at end of beam.
Use connection U.S. bearing plate (1044)
on toolbar 7.
Cap plate.
Use connection End plate detail (1002)
on toolbar 5.

Connection Map
Miscellaneous
Spacer plate between twin profiles.
Welded or bolted.
Use connection Twin profile connection
plate (1046) on toolbar 6.

Connection Map
Connection Map
Index
A bolts
bolt group orientation .......................25
acos ................................................ 201 bolt group pattern ............................26
anchoring hooks ................................... 86 bolt position ...................................27
asin ................................................. 201 bolt spacing ...................................25
assemblies defining ..................................22, 24
defining ........................................ 22 deleting ........................................29
atan................................................. 201 edge distance ................................26
atan2 ............................................... 201 increasing bolt length .......................24
attaching number of .....................................25
reinforcement to parts ...................... 91 overview of properties on the bolts tab .23
AutoConnection box girder (S13)..................................144
using ........................................... 31 built-up
automatic properties .............................. 13 beams ........................................143
ave.................................................. 199 columns ......................................154
connections and details ..................162
frames ........................................159
B
beam end reinforcement (79) ................ 114 C
beam ends
concrete components 76, 78 ............. 71 ceil ..................................................199
beam profiles column reinforcement
selecting ....................................... 20 intermediate links ..........................127
beam reinforcement (63) ...................... 108 rectangular columns (83) ................124
bearing plate round columns (82) .......................120
concrete components 75, 76 ............. 68 stirrups .......................................123
creating in concrete component 14 ..... 62 top and bottom .............................124
bending radius ..................................... 85 component catalog ..................................7
bind to plane ..................................... 190 components
binding using magnetic planes ............... 193 toolbars ..........................................9
bolt assemblies conceptual components..........................17
defining in connections .................... 30 concrete components ............................59
bolt hole dimensions in concrete components65 stairs (7) .......................................76
concrete cover .....................................87
concrete detailing..................................59
concrete slab
generation with points (62) ................81
generation with polygon plate (61) ......79

Index
concrete stairs fitting options
properties .....................................78 concrete component 75 ....................66
connections concrete component 76 ....................71
defining bolt assemblies ...................30 floor .................................................199
seating (concrete) ...........................63 flooring decks.......................................79
corbel connection (14) ...........................59 formulae ...........................................195
corbel reinforcement (81)......................117 fP() ..................................................196
additional bars .............................120 functions for equations .........................196
corbels
chamfering ....................................61
defining connecting material ..............62 G
cos ..................................................201
cosh ................................................201 general tab ..........................................13
cross plate profile (S33) .......................147 getat ................................................200
cross profile (S32)...............................146 grout
Custom component editor .....................184 concrete components 75, 76 ..............66
custom component wizard ....................177
custom components
defining ..............................176, 177 H
custom connections ............................176
properties ...................................183 handles
custom details ....................................176 of reinforcement..............................92
custom elements hole reinforcement
interface .....................................202 creation and reinforcement (85) ........130
for slabs and walls (84)...................128
holes
creating ........................................24
D hypot................................................198
default properties ..................................13
detailed components .............................17
distance ...........................................190 I
double ..............................................199
double tee reinforcement (64) ................111 In ....................................................198
int ....................................................199
intermediate links in columns .................127
E
edge distance L
bolts ............................................26
exp ..................................................198 lacer bars in footings ............................102
exploding length ...............................................200
reinforcement.................................93 lifting anchor (80) ................................137
exploding components .........................177 log ...................................................198
F M
fabs .................................................198 magnetic planes .................................193
find ..................................................200 match ...............................................200
materials
defining.........................................22

Index
max ................................................. 199 reinforcement
min.................................................. 199 basic properties ..............................85
mod................................................. 198 bending radius ...............................85
Model browser ................................... 187 exploding ......................................93
modifying for foundations ...............................96
reinforcement ................................ 91 hooks ...........................................86
modifying ......................................91
numbering .....................................94
N omitting bars ..................................90
spacing.........................................89
n! .................................................... 198 user-defined attributes .....................90
numbering round ...............................................198
reinforcement ................................ 94 round column reinforcement (82) ............120
reinforcement, what affects ............... 94
S
O seam ...............................................182
omitting reinforcing bars ......................... 90 seating connections ...............................63
seating with dowel (75)...........................63
seating with dowel to flange (77) ..............72
P setat ................................................200
sin ...................................................201
pad footing reinforcement (77) ............... 104 sinh .................................................201
panels ................................................ 79 slab
parameters ....................................... 193 properties ......................................80
part position number ............................. 20 type .............................................79
parts slab bars (18) .....................................134
defining ........................................ 18 slab generation with points (62) ................81
dialog box tabs ............................... 19 slab generation with polygon plate (61) ......79
dimensioning ................................. 19 slabs ..................................................79
part position number........................ 20 about ...........................................78
setting default prefix and start number . 21 slotted holes
pile cap reinforcement (76) ..................... 98 defining ........................................28
plates spacing reinforcing bars .........................89
defining ........................................ 18 sqave ...............................................199
dimensioning ................................. 20 sqrt ..................................................198
pow ................................................. 198 sqsum ..............................................199
properties stairs
automatic ...................................... 13 concrete .......................................76
default.......................................... 13 stairs, concrete
system default ............................... 12 properties ......................................78
starter bars (86, 87) .............................105
string ...............................................199
R strip footing reinforcement (75).................96
sum .................................................199
recess nut and washer plate
system default properties ........................12
concrete components 75, 76 ............. 67
concrete components 77, 78 ............. 73
rectangular column reinforcement (83) .... 124
reference function ............................... 196

Index
T
tan ..................................................201
tanh .................................................201
tapered beam (S98) ............................148
tapered beam 2 (S45) ..........................150
tapered beam to beam (200) .................165
tapered beam to column (197) ...............162
tapered column (S99) ..........................154
tapered column 2 (S44) ........................157
tapered column base plate (1068) ..........167
tapered column to beam (199) ...............164
tapered component properties ...............168
tapered frame comonor (S53) ................159
tolerances
in concrete stairs ............................78
two-sided seating with dowel (76) .............68
two-sided seating with dowel to flange (78) .74
U
up direction .........................................11
user connections
creating ......................................208
user-defined planes .............................193
user-defined reinforcement attributes ........90
V
variables ...........................................189
W
welds
defining ..................................22, 31

Index

Tekla Structures: Detailing Manual

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Tekla Structures

Product version 10.0

Copyright © 2004 Tekla Corporation

1 Getting Started ............................................................................................ 5

2 Steel Connection Properties .................................................................. 37

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL i

ii TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

6 Custom Components ............................................................................. 175

Appendix B : Connection Map ........................................................... 211

Index ........................................................................................................ 255

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL iii

Additional help resources

Area office E-mail address

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 1

Conventions used in this guide

A tip might introduce a shortcut, or suggest alternative ways of

2 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

You should always read very important notes and warnings,

This symbol indicates advanced or highly technical informa-

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 3

Chapter 1: Getting Started

Chapter 2: Steel Connection Properties

Chapter 3: Concrete Detailing

Chapter 5: Built-up Components

Chapter 6: Custom Components

Appendix B: Connection Map

4 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 5

1. Pick the main part

2. Pick the secondary

The connection auto-

6 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Item Description Examples Symbol

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 7

Symbol Component type

Custom connections and seams

8 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Initiates the last

Component dialog box

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 9

The green symbol indi-

10 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Pick the parts in the

Details The default picking order for a detail is:

Macros The default picking order for a macro is:

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Manually defining To manually define the up direction:

Automatic and default properties

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Use the Automatic option

Field Description More information

TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL 13

1.2 Using components

14 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Color Status Tip

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If you have Select component swicthed on , you do not

16 TEKLA STRUCTURES - DETAILING MANUAL

Type Symbol Configuration Description

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Default: Tekla Structures creates stiffeners or uses

Automatic: Tekla Structures creates or omits stiffen-

Tekla Structures does not create stiffeners.