Tekla Structures 2026 continues to set the standard for Building Information Modeling (BIM) and structural detailing. While 3D modeling is critical for clash detection and coordination, transforming a complex 3D model into a clear, precise 2D drawing remains an essential requirement for site execution and client approvals. Among these documentation outputs, General Arrangement (GA) drawings are paramount.
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the essential workflow for generating clean, professional GA drawings in Tekla Structures 2026.
Step 1: Prepare Your Model and Define Views
Before generating any documentation, ensure your 3D model is fully detailed, correctly numbered, and audited. GA drawings display the overall layout of structures, including plan views, elevations, and sectional details.
To start, open the view list and select the specific grid lines or plan levels you wish to document. Creating dedicated, clean plan and elevation views in your 3D workspace serves as the foundation for your drawing creation.
Step 2: Generate the General Arrangement Drawing
Navigate to the Drawings & Reports tab on the Tekla ribbon and select Create General Arrangement Drawing. Choose the pre-defined views you set up in the previous step. Tekla Structures 2026 features refined automated algorithms that instantly convert your 3D geometry into an editable 2D drawing layout.
Step 3: Customize Layouts, Marks, and Dimensions
Once your GA drawing is generated, open it from the Document Manager to perform fine-tuning:
- Adjust View Properties: Ensure the scale fits appropriately within your title block and border settings.
- Apply Smart Dimensions: Utilize Tekla's auto-dimensioning features or add manual dimensions to highlight key grid distances, centerlines, and overall structural bounds.
- Configure Part Marks: Set up mark properties to display crucial information such as profile names, material grades, and elevation levels without cluttering the sheet.
Step 4: Final Quality Check and Export
After finalizing your annotations, perform a final audit. Delivering a crisp, easy-to-read 2D drawing set eliminates misinterpretations during the fabrication and site erection phases. Finally, export your completed GA drawings to PDF, DWG, or DXF formats for seamless distribution to project stakeholders.
By mastering this streamlined GA drawing workflow in Tekla Structures 2026, you will optimize your drafting process and deliver industry-standard structural documentation every time.
