Why SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS is the ideal tool for all steel design requirements

Why is SolidSteel parametric the ideal tool for all your steel design needs?

Technical background

SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS is an add-in module for SOLIDWORKS that extends SOLIDWORKS with all types of steel design functionality. Unlike SOLIDWORKS Weldments, SolidSteel parametric works at assembly level.

All parts created, such as profiles or connection components, are individual parts within the assembly. However, part editing, such as cuts or bores, is done at the part level, not as an assembly feature.

The SolidSteel parametric core is used to manage dependencies, so no SOLIDWORKS mates or external references are created. However, the design is still 100% parametric.

Highlights:

Work at assembly level

No external references

Fully parametric

Geometric identical part recognition

If all inserted parts become individual components within the assembly, what happens to identical parts?

This is a legitimate question because SOLIDWORKS does not recognize geometrically identical parts, it only determines if the parts are identical by name. That is why SolidSteel parametric comes with geometric identical part recognition. This can be started at any time to find identical parts.

This algorithm is not based on metadata, but actually compares the geometry of the parts.

For example, two profiles of the same length and type, but with different hole patterns, will be assigned different position numbers.

Rotational invariances are also taken into account. In the following example, the components are assigned identical position numbers even though the angle is different in the global coordinate system and the orientation is mirrored in the component level coordinates:

Typical steel connections

Of course, SOLIDWORKS can be used to design all kinds of typical steel connections without SolidSteel parametric. However, this is a very time-consuming and repetitive task.

SolidSteel parametric can create over 500 different standard connections, such as end plates, gusset plates, ribs, or angle connections. All connections can also be combined.

When you create a connection, SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS does most of the work for you.

For example, to create a clip angle connection, you simply select the two faces of the connection and select an appropriate clip angle from the library.

You then use SolidSteel parametric part selection to define an appropriate bolt set (i.e., the entire set including bolts, nuts, and washers), and SolidSteel parametric does the rest.

Highlights:

Create typical steel connections with just a few clicks

Self-learning database for standards or company standards

Large library of standard connections

Large, international bolt library

Custom connections

One (or two, if desired) clip angle(s) is (are) inserted into the assembly, all holes are placed in the angle(s) and also in the connected parts, and all bolts are inserted.
Optionally, a welded assembly will also be created automatically if it is a welded clip angle.

Once a connection is configured, SolidSteel parametric can store that connection in a self-learning database. You no longer need to select the clip angle and the bolts, just the faces and your own standard. Of course, this is possible for all connections, not just clip angles.

In the video, starting at about 2 minutes, the creation of a connection with clip angles is shown.
However, the video is also worth watching in its entirety and shows, for example, at the beginning how to create complete frame corners and how to create user-defined connections from any connections.

The game changer: Custom Joints

If you've seen the video above, you've already come across Custom Joints. If the standard connections do not fit, or if you often have to place a combination of standard connections (e.g. an end plate, a haunch and several ribs), the Custom Joints feature will help you.

This feature allows you to teach user-defined connections. Simply select two profiles and all the connection elements and machining operations (cuts, etc.).

SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS then saves this joint in the database and you can use it again and again - regardless of the project or assembly.

This not only saves a lot of time, but also minimizes the potential for errors in recurring tasks.

FeatureDetail "Custom Joints"

This topic is only briefly touched on this page, but it is a real secret weapon when it comes to saving time and reducing the potential complexity of joints.

Read all the details here:

Custom Joints blog post

Stairs and railings

Have you read this far and thought to yourself with almost all the descriptions: "I can do all that with just SOLIDWORKS!"? That's certainly true, but don't forget the time factor. And when it comes to that critical factor, we've got you covered!

With SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS, you can create an industrial staircase in seconds. This includes extensions for landings, precise calculation of tread position, dozens of settings for offsets, floor heights, etc., all the holes in the stringers, automatic creation of welded assemblies, and more.

Oh yes, and of course, the creation of all the parts and their insertion into the assembly.

But pictures are worth a 1000 words. See for yourself how easy it is to design stairs and railings with SOLIDWORKS. Here is a recording of a webinar that covers the process in detail:

Highlights:

Create stairs at the touch of a button

Large, expandable library of stair steps

Automatic cuts and boreholes in stair stringers

Automatic generation of all welded assemblies

Individually customizable railings

A staircase complete with handrail in real time - watch the recording of our webinar to see how easy it is to create a staircase with SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS in less than 15 minutes.

Learn more about our Apps for SOLIDWORKS in our brochure:

Brochure Apps for SOLIDWORKS English

28 Pages / PDF / 4,6 MB

Download PDF

You have additional questions about this topic? Our experts are pleased to help you. Just send us a Message or give us a call at +49 271 23167 0.