Steel detailing is a critical process in structural engineering that translates design intent into precise instructions for fabrication and erection. It is the communication bridge between the structural engineer, fabricator, and construction team.
Understanding the Project Scope
The first step of steel detailing begins with reviewing structural and architectural drawings provided by the design team. At this stage, the steel detailer understands the project requirements, building codes, connection standards, and material to be used.
It’s a very crucial step that ensures before modeling begins, any ambiguities or missing information about the project are cleared.
Preparing the 3D Model
Steel detailers prepare three models using software like Tekla Structures, Advance Steel, or Revit. A comprehensive 3d steel framework model includes components like beams, columns, braces, plates, bolts, and welds. This model forms the backbone of the detailing process and helps in accurate visulation and early clash detection.
Coordination and Clash Detection
Once the 3D model of the steel structure is developed, the next critical step is coordination and clash detection. In modern construction, where multiple systems are tightly packed into complex structures, coordination is not optional—it’s essential. The 3D steel model is integrated with BIM (Building Information Modeling) platforms to identify and resolve clashes between steel components and other building systems. This proactive approach reduces conflicts during fabrication and erection, saving time and cost.
Creating Shop Drawings
Once the model is validated, the detailer generates shop drawings. Shop drawings are detailed technical drawings that contain all the information required by the fabrication shop to produce individual steel parts and assemblies. These drawings include detailed dimensions, material specifications, cutting lengths, bolt holes, weld types, and any other manufacturing instructions. Every part is uniquely labeled for tracking, and a bill of materials (BOM) is generated to list all required components for fabrication.
Drawings are focused on precision, constructability, and fabrication feasibility.
Producing Erection Drawings
With fabrication instructions ready, the focus shifts to erection drawings. These are detailed layout plans that show how and where each steel component should be installed on-site. Drawings indicate the position of each member in the overall framework, connection details, and alignment references and often suggest erection sequences.
Quality Checks and Revisions
After shop and erection drawings are produced and before anything is sent for fabrication or construction, one of the most important steps is to carry out quality checks and revisions. It includes verifying dimensions, validating connections, and ensuring compliance with design standards and client specifications. If any discrepancies or errors are found, revisions are made, and updated drawings are issued accordingly.
Approval and Issue for Fabrication/Erection
After internal checks, the shop and erection drawings are submitted to the structural engineer or project consultant for review and approval. Once approved, they are officially released to the fabricators and site teams for production and assembly.
As-Built Drawings (if required)
Once the steel structure has been entirely fabricated and erected on-site, the steel detailer is responsible for creating as-built drawings. These drawings are the final version of the project documents, showing the exact configuration of the steel structure as it was actually constructed.
