Tag: RAJ (Arokiaraj Arputharaj)

  • Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes

    Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes

    This article explains the Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes and provides a practical solution.

    One common issue in Tekla Structures is assigning the same part mark to different-looking plates.

    This occurs when two plates have identical dimensions, thickness, material, and slotted hole size.

    One plate contains a standard horizontal slotted hole.

    The other plate has the same slot rotated by only 1°.

    Although the slot orientations differ, Tekla evaluates both plates using its 1 mm geometry tolerance.

    The 1° rotation creates a geometric difference within this tolerance.

    Therefore, Tekla considers both plates identical.

    As a result, Tekla automatically assigns the same part mark.

    The Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes occurs because Tekla compares geometry using its default tolerance.

    Please see the attached snapshot. Tekla is assigning different part marks to plates even though the only difference is that the slots are rotated by 1°. This results in additional time and cost for both the detailing and fabrication processes.

    This behavior can create confusion during detailing and fabrication.

    Detailers may expect different part marks because the slot directions are different.

    Fabricators may struggle to identify the correct plate for each connection.

    The issue can also affect CNC data generation.

    Quality inspections may become more difficult.

    Site assembly can also be affected when slot orientation is important.

    Solution to Resolve the Part Mark issue Between Plates with Horizontal Slots and 1° Rotated Slotted Holes

    Understanding the Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes helps detailers avoid unnecessary part variations.

    A simple solution is to standardize the slot geometry.

    Avoid creating separate plates with slightly rotated slots.

    Instead, use a larger diameter horizontal slot for all similar plates.

    The larger diameter slot accommodates the required installation tolerance for the 1° Rotated Slotted Holes.

    Every similar plate then shares the same geometry.

    All plates also receive the same part mark by design.

    This approach removes unnecessary part variations.

    It also maintains the required functionality and installation fit.

    By following this method, you can permanently resolve the Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes.

    Please see the attached snapshot. When comparing the overall height of the standard horizontal slot with the slot rotated by 1°, there is only a 1 mm difference. Therefore, we can increase the standard horizontal slot diameter by 1 mm so that the same slot size can be used for both situations. This will allow us to assign a single part mark to all identical plates, simplifying both the detailing and fabrication processes.

    Standardizing slotted holes provides several additional benefits.

    It reduces the number of unique parts in the model.

    It simplifies detailing and drawing production.

    Fabrication becomes easier and more consistent.

    CNC programming also becomes simpler.

    The risk of manufacturing errors is reduced.

    Assembly errors are less likely to occur.

    Inventory management also becomes easier.

    Fewer unique plate types need to be tracked.

    This method is considered a best practice whenever extra slot tolerance is acceptable.

    Always verify that the larger diameter slot meets project requirements.

    Confirm compliance with engineering specifications before implementation.

    Also ensure the connection design remains unchanged.

    Using standardized slots creates cleaner Tekla models.

    It improves fabrication efficiency

    and reduces unnecessary detailing work.

    also eliminates part mark conflicts caused by minor slot rotations.

    By following this method, you can permanently resolve the Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes.

    Key Benefits

    • Eliminates duplicate part mark issues.
    • Standardizes plate geometry and fabrication.
    • Reduces the number of unique plate types.
    • Simplifies detailing and CNC programming.
    • Improves manufacturing efficiency.
    • Prevents confusion during production and assembly.
    • Helps maintain a cleaner and more consistent Tekla model.

    We hope this guide helps you solve the Tekla Part Mark Issue with 1° Rotated Slotted Holes in your future Tekla projects.

    Read more Tekla tips and technical guides on our Blog

  • The Lonsdale-27 Scott St-FACADE COLUMNS

    The Lonsdale-27 Scott St-FACADE COLUMNS

    For the 27 Scott Street project, the client requested that the façade posts be installed with sufficient clearance so that the fixing anchors do not clash with the PT cable lines.

    We carefully followed the client’s requirements and coordinated the design to ensure that the anchors clear the PT cable lines. The steel was successfully erected without any issues.

    We would like to thank the client for giving us the opportunity to be part of this project.

  • Understanding PFC Shear Connection: A Practical Discussion

    Understanding PFC Shear Connection: A Practical Discussion


    Based on this scenario, what would you propose as an alternative to balance structural performance and fabrication efficiency? Share your thoughts in the comments!

    Introduction

    Shear connections play a crucial role in structural steelwork, ensuring the stability and strength of a framework. One common method is the extended shear plate connection, as seen in the R1 to J1 connection detail. However, this method introduces bolt eccentricity, which could impact the overall efficiency of the joint.

    The Challenge

    In the given design, the PFC (Parallel Flange Channel) shear connection is detailed using an extended shear plate. While this is a standard approach, it inherently results in increased eccentricity due to the offset load transfer through the bolts. This can lead to additional bending moments in the connection, requiring careful consideration in the design phase.

    Possible Solution

    A potential improvement is to introduce a cope in the PFC section and utilize a simple shear connection instead. This modification would:

    • Reduce bolt eccentricity
    • Simplify force transfer
    • Enhance structural performance

    However, this approach was not accepted by the client due to fabrication ease considerations.

    Key Learning for Junior Engineers

    This case highlights a key engineering principle: design optimization vs. fabrication practicality. While structural efficiency is paramount, practical considerations such as ease of fabrication, cost, and site constraints often dictate final design choices.

  • Erection Issue Eliminated Through Suggested Changes in the Splice Connection During Detail Engineering

    Erection Issue Eliminated Through Suggested Changes in the Splice Connection During Detail Engineering

    Issue Identified During Detail Engineering

    • During detail engineering, it was identified that the design specifies both-side web plates, with shop weld on one side and field bolts on the other.
    • This would have created a field erection issue, as the shop-welded web plate on both sides prevents secondary beam placement.

    Proposed Solution: Fully Bolted Connection

    • Use bolted connections on both sides instead of welding one side.
    • This allows the web plate to be shipped loose, making field installation easier.
    • At the site, the secondary beam can be placed first, followed by the web plate installation and bolting.
    • Factory-drilled holes ensure precise alignment and better quality.
    • Eliminates on-site welding hazards and inspection issues.

    Client Approval

    • The client accepted the suggestion due to its practical benefits and ease of installation.
    • The change improves efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and safety.

    Conclusion

    • Switching from welded-bolted to fully bolted improves constructability.
    • Ensures stronger, safer, and more efficient structural connections.
    • Small design changes can greatly impact project success.
  • 14 RIDGEWAY AVENUE, KEW

    14 RIDGEWAY AVENUE, KEW

    Author: RAJ (Arokiaraj Arputharaj), an expert in simplified structures for residential projects, also specializes in structural steel drafting.

    Simple to fabricate and easy to install, is the mantra when it comes to structural steel for residential.

    Residential projects run on a budget. When they do, cost saving detials are usually missed by the engineer and architect.

    At Tek1, we see, check and recommend cost saving alternatives. 90% of the time our proposals are accepted saving cost to fabricator and builder.

    Our simple philosophy is , if it complicated to detail, it will be more expensive for fabricator. Keep it simple.

  • NO 11 CATHERINE PDE FRANKSTON

    NO 11 CATHERINE PDE FRANKSTON

    Author: RAJ (Arokiaraj Arputharaj)

  • UPGRADED ROCK REVETMENT AT FLIGHT DECK

    UPGRADED ROCK REVETMENT AT FLIGHT DECK

    Author: RAJ (Arokiaraj Arputharaj)