A Beginner’s Guide to Steel Detailing: Tools, Terms, and Techniques

Structural steel detailing is the precise, technical process of transforming structural design drawings into detailed instructions and 3D models that are ready for fabrication and construction. It acts as the critical link between architects, engineers, fabricators, and installers — defining exactly how each steel component will be manufactured, assembled, and erected on site.

Without accurate steel detailing, a structure simply can’t be built. But when done right, everything fits — down to the last bolt.

(toc) #title=(Table of Content)

What Does a Steel Detailer Do?

Structural engineers usually provide the big picture—main framing elements, general locations, and typical connection details. But it’s the steel detailer who brings the design to life.

The detailer takes this design and develops it down to the smallest components, accounting not just for the primary steel but also for secondary or auxiliary steel that often isn’t shown on plans and appears only in sections. 

Connections are fully developed based on the actual layout, member sizes, and elevations, ensuring the design can be accurately fabricated and erected in the field.

Structural steel detailing ensures:

• Fabricators have exact cut lengths, copes, hole patterns, weld types, and BOMs
• Erectors know where each member goes and how it connects
• Coordinated installation with other trades (concrete, MEP, building envelope)
• Fewer RFIs, less rework, and tighter construction schedules

The steel detailing process typically involves creating a detailed 3D model of the structure using specialized software such as Tekla Structures or Autodesk Advance Steel. This model is then used to generate a series of detailed fabrication and assembly drawings that provide instructions for the steel fabricator and erector.

Steel detailing involves the creation of detailed drawings for fabricators and contractors, and includes plans and estimates, as well as other reports and important tasks. The steel detailing process includes the creation of a variety of drawings and documents. The process involves two main types of drawings—shop drawings and erection drawings.

What a Steel Detailer Actually Does

Steel detailers serve as the technical translators between structural engineers and steel fabricators. Their job is to turn design intent into precise, buildable instructions — ensuring that every steel component is modeled, documented, and ready for fabrication and erection.

🧱 1. Modeling the Steel in 3D

Using advanced software like Tekla Structures, SDS/2, or Advance Steel, detailers build a comprehensive 3D model of the entire steel framework. This model includes:

Primary Structural Elements
Columns, beams, trusses, braces — the main load-bearing members.

Secondary Structural Elements
Lintels, kickers, edge angles, support frames, and other components that support finishes or equipment.

Connections and Materials
Shear plates, clip angles, stiffeners, base plates, and gussets — all fully modeled and coordinated.

📌 Want to dive deeper in steel structural elements? Check out our article on Steel structure members and materials

Welds, Bolts, and Finishes
Every weld type, bolt size, hole tolerance, and surface finish are specified in detail.

This 3D model isn’t just visual — it’s data-rich. Every part has a unique ID and is linked to specific material specs, member sizes, weights, finishes, and fabrication instructions. It becomes the single source of truth for fabrication, erection, and coordination with other trades.

🖨️ 2. Creating Drawings & Reports

Once the 3D model is complete, the steel detailer generates all the documentation needed to fabricate and erect the structure:

Shop Drawings

Used by fabricators to cut, weld, and assemble each steel member with precision.

Erection Drawings
Guide field crews on how and where to install each piece of steel on site.

Anchor Bolt & Embed Plans
Coordinated with concrete teams to ensure accurate placement of embedded items.

📌 Want to know more about anchor bolts? Check out our article on Anchor rod embedment length and projection 

BOMs & CNC Files

Includes Bills of Materials and machine-readable files (DXF, DSTV, KSS) for automated cutting, drilling, and welding equipment.

🔄 3. Managing RFIs & Revisions

Steel detailers don’t just model — they also help resolve design issues and keep the project moving. This includes:

Flagging Incomplete or Conflicting Info
Such as missing dimensions, unclear framing details, or elevation mismatches.

Coordinating Design Changes
Whether due to engineering updates, site conditions, or client revisions.

Clash Detection with Other Trades
Identifying and resolving conflicts with HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or architectural elements.

By managing RFIs (Requests for Information) and revisions proactively, detailers help reduce delays, minimize rework, and keep the steel package aligned with the overall construction schedule.

🛠️ The Structural Steel Detailing Process: Step-by-Step

Steel detailing is a collaborative, multi-stage process that transforms design intent into fabrication-ready documentation. Here’s how it typically unfolds:

1. Kickoff Meeting

• Align on project scope, timelines, deliverables, and client-specific standards.
• Clarify submittal requirements and communication protocols.

2. “Plain Steel” or “Stick” Modeling

• Build the core steel frame based on the structural engineer’s drawings.
• Focus on primary members like beams, columns, and braces.

3. Connection Modeling & Design (if delegated)

• Model all connections (shear, moment, bracing, etc.).
• Coordinate with a licensed PE or in-house engineer for connection design approval.

4. Clash Coordination

• Run clash detection to identify spatial conflicts with MEP, concrete, or architectural elements.
• Resolve issues early to avoid costly rework on site.

5. Create Erection Drawings

Generate field-use drawings showing part marks, member locations, and assembly sequences.

6. Generate Shop Drawings

Produce detailed fabrication drawings, CNC files (DSTV, DXF), bolt lists, and BOMs.

7. QA Review

• Conduct internal quality checks.
• Coordinate with the GC and fabricator to ensure accuracy and constructability.

8. Submittals & Revisions

• Submit drawings for approval.
• Incorporate markups and revisions, then resubmit as needed.

9. As-Builts & “For Record” Packages

• Update models and drawings to reflect field changes.
• Deliver final documentation for record-keeping and future maintenance.

💬 Communication is Key

Throughout the process, detailers stay in constant contact with engineers, architects, project managers, and shop crews to ensure alignment and resolve issues quickly.

🏗️ Structural Steel vs. Miscellaneous Steel: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to steel in construction, not all steel plays the same role. Here’s a quick breakdown of Structural Steel vs. Miscellaneous Steel — and why both are essential to a successful project.

Structural Steel	Miscellaneous Steel
Load-bearing frame: beams, columns, braces	Non-structural: stairs, railings, ladders
Governed by AISC 360 & OSHA codes	Governed by IBC, OSHA, and ADA
Focused on strength and load capacity	Focused on functionality and aesthetics
Installed early, tied to erection sequencing	Installed later in the schedule

🧰 Software & Standards Steel Detailers Use

Steel detailing relies on a combination of powerful software tools and strict industry standards to ensure accuracy, safety, and coordination.

💻 Software Tools

• Tekla Structures: Industry-leading 3D modeling software with automation for connections, drawings, and reports.
• SDS/2: Fast and intelligent steel modeling with built-in connection design capabilities.
• AutoCAD: Widely used for 2D drafting, especially for simpler or legacy projects.
• Bluebeam Revu: Essential for PDF markup, drawing reviews, and collaboration with project teams.
• Navisworks: Used for BIM coordination, clash detection, and model aggregation across trades.

📏 Industry Standards

AISC Steel Construction Manual & Design Guides
Governs steel design, fabrication, and erection practices in the U.S.

AWS D1.1 Structural Welding Code
Defines welding procedures, symbols, and quality requirements.

ASTM Standards
Material specifications like A992 (wide flange), A36 (plates), A325 (bolts), etc.

OSHA Safety Standards
Ensures safe practices during steel erection and site work.

ADA / IBC Codes
Applied for stair, handrail, and accessibility compliance.

Steel detailing is a critical part of the steel construction process, as it ensures that the steel components are fabricated and erected correctly, and that the finished structure is strong, safe, and meets all design requirements. 

⚙️ What Makes Steel Detailing Complex?

Even with powerful software, steel detailing is far from simple. It’s a high-stakes, detail-driven process that requires technical expertise, coordination, and constant problem-solving. Here are some of the key challenges that make it complex:

1. Connection Design Responsibility (CDR)

When engineers delegate connection design to the fabricator, detailers must:

• Coordinate with a licensed Professional Engineer (PE)
• Calculate and model shear, moment, and bracing connections
• Ensure compliance with design loads and code requirements

🛠️ 2. Field Fit Issues

On retrofit projects or poorly coordinated sites, detailers often need to:

• Add slotted holes or field welds for flexibility
• Design shim packs or adjustable connections
• Flag potential clashes with existing structures or unknown conditions

🚧 3. Fast-Track Projects

In accelerated schedules, detailing happens while construction is already underway. This requires:

• Phased submissions (e.g., anchor bolts first)
• Real-time coordination with site teams
• High efficiency and trust between all stakeholders

📐 4. Incomplete or Error-Prone Design Drawings

Design drawings often arrive with missing or conflicting information. Detailers must:

• Interpret and clarify design intent
• Communicate with engineers to resolve gaps
• Avoid assumptions that could lead to costly errors

🔄 5. Coordination with Other Trades

Steel detailing must align with:

• HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems
• Architectural finishes and concrete embeds
• Fireproofing, insulation, and façade systems

This requires constant model coordination and clash detection to ensure everything fits together seamlessly.

🎯 Precision Is Everything

Steel detailing demands accuracy at every level — from bolt sizes to elevation marks. A single oversight can lead to:

• Fabrication errors
• Costly field fixes
• Project delays

That’s why skilled detailers are essential to the success of any steel structure.

Who Relies on Steel Detailing?

Steel Fabricators:

Rely on shop drawings, bolt lists, and CNC files to cut, weld, and assemble steel accurately.

General Contractors:

Erection plans and anchor bolt layouts can be used to plan site activities and ensure the steel is installed safely and efficiently.

Engineers:

Review connection details and respond to RFIs to ensure the design intent is maintained throughout the fabrication & erection process.

Architects:

Coordinate stairs, railings, and miscellaneous steel details to align with architectural finishes and accessibility requirements.

Erectors:

Depend on field-ready part marks, piece lists, and clear sequencing to streamline installation and reduce crane time.

Developers and Owners:

Benefit from smoother schedules, fewer delays, and cleaner builds, thanks to accurate detailing that reduces field issues and rework.

In conclusion, the steel detailer works closely with the structural engineer, architect, and other members of the construction team to ensure that the steel detailing is accurate and meets all project specifications. They usually find employment with steel fabricators, engineering firms, or independent steel detailing companies.