Two options available to export files from Tekla Structures:

• Download the Tekla Structures TSEP plugin and generate the correct project ZIP automatically;
• Piece together the ZIP file manually via individually exported files provided by your detailer.

Export Project IFC - With TSEP Plugin

Before we start 🏁:

Please install and open the app in Tekla Structures

You can download the app via the link below:

The tool can be found and opened from the Applications and Components panel at the right-hand side of Tekla Structures under the FabStation Tools group.

Double click on the icon to launch the tool.

I have installed and opened the app, what's next? 👇

Overview

Whenever you decide to assemble a new project, you need to proceed with 2 steps:

💡 Step 1: Export For Fabrication Data such as:

• KSS file;
• assembly Orientation file;
• shop drawing PDFs (General Arrangement / Erection drawings excluded).

💡 Step 2: Export IFC Model all of the parts that:

• were selected as drawings in step 1 (released for fabrication);
• any additional parts near or connected to that steel in the model for reference.

This includes parts like concrete, joist, existing steel, or steel at match lines that have been previously released for fabrication or will be released in subsequent submittals.

Let us show you how to quickly assemble the files!

Step 1: Export For Fabrication Data

Here you will create a KSS file and the drawing PDF files for export to the FabStation Web-portal.

You will need to do 6 actions on this page one by one. Let's start:

Step 2: Export IFC Model

In the previous step you selected the main parts, so now you need to select the additional parts that are near or connecting to the assemblies and part released for fabrication.

Examples: joist, concrete, existing steel, steel at match lines being released in other submittal packages etc.

2.1 Open a window/area with the project designs and select all the additional parts that you want to be included in the IFC model file export.

2.2 Ensure that all the parts associated with the drawings released for fabrication are selected along with any additional parts you want to be exported for reference.

2.3. Once all the parts are selected, press the "2. Export IFC of Selected Area" button.

An IFC 2×3 SteelFabricationView IFC file will be exported, and then a zip file will be created in the FabStation sub folder found inside the Tekla Structures model folder.

This is the zip file that will be imported into the FabStation Web-portal. It will look like this:

Export Project IFC - Without TSEP Plugin

To export the complete project IFC file from Tekla Structures:

Step 1: Go to Export and select IFC (2×3).

Once selected, a dialogue window will open. Follow these guidelines:

Step 2: Configure Parameters Tab for IFC:

• Output file – Select the desired location of the output file and file name. We suggest using the project name in the file
• File Format – IFC
• Export Type – Steel Fabrication View (critical)

Step 3: Configure Advanced Tab for IFC

3.1 Object Types Section (CHECKED ON):

• Assemblies (critical)
• Bolts (optional)
• Welds (optional)
• Surface treatments and surfaces

3.2 Other Section (CHECKED ON):

• Export flat and wide beams as plates
• Spatial hierarchy from Organizer

3.3 Once complete, select Export to export the project IFC

Done? Let's continue with creating a KISS file as well 👇

Step 4: Create a KSS file

Now you have both IFC and KISS files. Let's complete the final steps!

Step 5: Get PDF files from your detailer that contain assembly drawings

PDF files are optional, however, if you want to have PDF drawing files available on the tablet, please get them from the detailer.

🎉 Congrats! You project is ready! 📄📧