Steel Detailing

CAD Software

We use Tekla Structures to produce accurate models & drawings fast. With Tekla Structures, our detailers can create and store drawings electronically so that they can be viewed, printed, or programmed directly into automated manufacturing systems. Tekla allows detailers to quickly modify and update designs if required.

Process

A detailer's drawings generally go through several phases including:

If there is any unclear information that would prevent the detailer from creating or completing the drawings accurately, a request for information (RFI) is sent to the relevant trades (typically the general contractor, architect or structural engineer before proceeding.
If the required information is not needed immediately, then the detailer can opt to list the questions on the drawings.
Following creation of the drawing, the detailer must usually submit a copy of the drawing to the architect and engineer for review ("approval").
Copies of the drawings may be sent to other recipients at this time as well, such as the general contractor, for informational purposes only.
The drawing must also be checked for accuracy and completeness by a "checker".
Comments arising from approval and corrections made during checking must be resolved, and the original drawing must be updated accordingly.
After this, the drawing may be released to the fabricator and/or erector for use in construction.

Deliverables

Vaga use their understanding of standardised building techniques, engineering and construction to create a model of the structure. Vaga fill in technical details using drawings, rough sketches, specifications, and calculations made by engineers, surveyors, architects, and/or scientists.

Vaga builds the project in 3D using Tekla Structures before producing quality detailed shop drawings and erection plans from the model, including:

General Arrangements
Marking Plans
Fabrication drawings
Material lists
NC data

Quality

Vaga detailers must comply with the requirements of the design drawings and with all industry standards and protocols, such as those established by …..

The detailer is usually not responsible for design, including structural strength, stiffness, and stability (which are the responsibility of the structural engineer), major dimensions of the structure and compliance with relevant building codes (which are the responsibility of the architect).

Detailers are generally required to submit drawings to the structural engineer and/or architect for review prior to the release of drawings for fabrication. However, to complete the drawings, our experienced steel detailers will suggest connections subject to the approval of the structural engineer in cases where the structural drawings have insufficient information. In these situations, Vaga steel detailers are guided by their experience and knowledge of existing engineering codes such as the ….

Knowledge & Skills

Although detailers use CAD extensively, it is only a tool. Detailers still need knowledge of traditional drafting techniques, in addition to CAD skills. Structural steel detailing requires skills drafting, mathematics (including geometry and trigonometry) logic, reasoning, spatial visualisation, and communication. A basic knowledge of general engineering principles and the methods of structural and steel fabrication is essential to the practice of this discipline.