20 Popular Tekla Macros Every Modeler Should Know

Tekla Structures is widely used by structural engineers and detailers to create complex and accurate models of steel and concrete structures. One of the standout features of Tekla is the ability to use macros to automate repetitive tasks, save time, and increase accuracy. But with hundreds of macros available, it can be tough to know which ones are the most beneficial. Here’s a look at some of the 20 popular Tekla macros every modeler should know to streamline workflows and maximize productivity.

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What is a macros in Tekla?

Macros or Components are tools that you can use to connect parts in the model. Components automate tasks and group objects so that Tekla Structures treats them as a single unit. You can save the properties of a component and use them in other projects.

There are three types of components:

1. Connections – connect two or multiple parts, and create all the required objects such as parts, bolts, cuts, fittings, and welds.
2. Details – add a detail to the main part, so they are connected to one part only.
3. Detailing components – automatically create the parts to build a structure, but do not connect the structure to existing parts.

Setting up these macros can speed up your work and reduce the chance of making mistakes. Most of them are installed by default in Tekla Structures. Use shortcut  CTRL+F to search specific component.

1. Cap plate detail

The Cap Plate Detail component in Tekla Structures is commonly used to create a plate at the end of a column or other structural members, typically in steel construction. This macro is applicable for Wide flange and HSS profiles.

2. Swap handles

This macro changes the start and end points of the selected object. It is beneficial for asymmetric shapes like angles and channels when you try to rotate them the right way. The start and end point of the beam have other roles too. It is very handy while ABM member placing to swap yellow and magenta points.

3. Extend adjust elevation

This tool is best used on beam framing more specifically at a roof and you want to change the slope of the primary beams, then just select all the other secondary framing beams to adjust their elevations to match exactly the new slope of the primary.

4. New notch (49)

This component joins two beams through welding. It allows you to define the notching style for the beam ends and to add horizontal stiffeners if required.

5. Fitting (13)

This component is useful for connecting two beams with welds, eliminating the need to create a separate view and apply tools like line cuts or part cuts.

6. Shear plate simple (146)

This component facilitates the connection of two beams or a beam to a column using either a single or double square shear tab. The shear tab is welded to the primary part and bolted to the web of the secondary beam. Additional options include attaching a stiffener plate on the opposite side of the main part, as well as haunch plates and seat angles.

7. Stiffeners (1064)

Utilize this component to easily add one or more stiffeners to steel members. Simply select the thickness, width, and height tolerances between the I-beam flanges, and the setup is complete.

8. Bolted gusset (11)

These components Bolted gusset (11) and Tube gusset (20) allow you to connect a bracing profile to a column or beam using a gusset plate. Depending on whether you’re working with a hollow/HSS profile or an open section for bracing, you can select the appropriate component. The gusset plate can be either bolted or welded to both the main part and the bracing, with options to add clip angles and to seal hollow sections with end plates.

9. Base plate (1047)

This component is essential for creating a base plate with anchors. It generates an end plate that is welded to the column and secured to the base with anchors. You can also add a cast plate for anchoring and grout, which aids in accurately modeling columns atop concrete elements.

10. End plate (144)

This component allows you to connect two beams or a beam to a column with a bolted end plate. The secondary part can be sloped, leveled, squared, or skewed. Various end plate connections are possible, such as full-depth and partial-depth end plates. Additionally, you have options to add haunches, shims, stiffeners, and notches if required.

11. Cranked beam (41)

This component connects the ends of two beams, aligning them to an angle that averages the angles of each beam end. You can add a plate between the beams as well as haunches if needed. However, it is primarily used for creating miter cuts. The beams are automatically welded, with options to specify the weld type and size. This component is suitable for all profile types, including tubular shapes.

12. Stiffened end plate (27)

This component is intended for the same beam arrangement as Shear Plate Simple (146) but designed to create an end plate connection. An end plate is welded to the secondary beam, while a stiffener and shear tab are welded to the main beam. The plates are then bolted together.

13. Two sided end plate (142)

Use this component to connect two beams to a beam or a column with the same bolt group through all three parts. Take into account the installation of the beams on site.

14. Clip Angle (141)

Clip angle (141) connects beam to a column, using bolted or welded clip angles. The secondary beam can be leveled or sloped. Welded haunch plates and seat angles are optional.

15. Two Sided Clip Angle (143)

Two sided clip angle (143) connects two supporting beams using single or double clip angles. The secondary beam can be leveled or sloped. Welded haunch plates and a seat angle are optional.

16. Columns Splice (132)

Column Splice (132) component facilitates a splice connection between two columns, offering options for configurations like two outer flange plates with two web plates, or four inner flange plates with two web plates, among others.

17. Cast-in Plate (1069)

Cast-in plate (1069) Cast-in plate (1069) creates a cast plate at the selected end of a beam. Studs, bolts, bent anchor bolts, or nail holes can be added to the plate.

18. Stairs (S71)

This macro is especially useful for automating stair creation, accommodating future modifications, and speeding up the process as you become more familiar with its setup.. It’s designed for straight stairs with optional top and bottom landings, allowing you to add stringers, steps, landings, brackets, and plates. Be mindful of the selection order when using this component.

19. Haunch (40)

Use this component to connect a beam to a column with a welded plate or profile haunch and a bolted end plate. You also have the option to include additional elements like a top plate, stiffeners, cap plate, or web plate.

20. Stanchion weld (85)

This component also allows you to fit and weld a profile to the flat surface of another part, functioning similarly to the Fit Part End command in Tekla but without needing a perpendicular view of the element.

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What is the red component symbol in Tekla?

A green symbol means that the component is up to date, a yellow symbol means that the component has been modified but not updated, and a red symbol means that the component is outdated and needs to be updated.