When it comes to structural steel detailing in Australia, the choice of software plays a crucial role in delivering accurate, compliant, and cost-effective shop drawings. Two of the most widely used programs in the industry are Tekla Structures and Autodesk Advance Steel. While both are powerful tools, their strengths, workflows, and cost structures make them suitable for different project needs.
At Staren Steel Detailing, we work with both platforms to meet our clients’ requirements across residential, commercial, and industrial projects, ensuring compliance with Australian Standards (AS/NZS 5131, AS/NZS 4100, AS 1627) and project specifications.
1. Tekla Structures – The Industry Benchmark for Complex Projects
Tekla Structures by Trimble is widely regarded as the most advanced BIM-based steel detailing software available today.
Key advantages for Australian projects:
- Comprehensive BIM integration – Seamlessly works with architects, engineers, and fabricators in a collaborative 3D environment.
- Australian Standards compliance – Built-in libraries and customization to match AS/NZS codes.
- Complex geometry support – Ideal for large-scale infrastructure, high-rise buildings, and industrial plants.
- Advanced clash detection – Reduces on-site errors and rework.
Drawbacks:
- Higher licensing cost – Annual subscriptions can exceed AUD $10,000 per seat.
- Steeper learning curve – Requires more experienced detailers to operate efficiently.
2. Autodesk Advance Steel – Flexible and Cost-Effective
Advance Steel, part of the Autodesk suite, offers a powerful yet more affordable detailing solution, especially suited to small-to-medium projects.
Key advantages for Australian projects:
- Lower software cost – Subscriptions start from around AUD $4,000 per year.
- Familiar AutoCAD-based interface – Easier transition for CAD users.
- Efficient for standard structures – Residential, light commercial, and straightforward industrial projects.
- Good connection detailing – Includes parametric connections that can be adapted to Australian requirements.
Drawbacks:
- Less robust for extremely complex projects – May require workarounds for advanced geometries.
- Limited BIM collaboration compared to Tekla – Better suited to projects where full BIM integration is not mandatory.
3. Which One Should You Choose?
The answer depends on your project type, complexity, and budget:
- Choose Tekla Structures if you need full BIM integration, handle complex geometries, and want maximum precision for large-scale or high-profile projects.
- Choose Advance Steel if your project is simpler, budget-sensitive, and you prefer faster onboarding with an AutoCAD-style interface.
At Staren Steel Detailing, we work with both Tekla and Advance Steel to offer the best of both worlds. This flexibility allows us to match the right software to your project, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and compliance with Australian building codes.
4. Why Partner with Staren Steel Detailing?
Based in Vietnam and servicing Australia-wide, we deliver:
- Accurate, fully compliant shop drawings
- Competitive pricing without compromising quality
- Experienced detailers proficient in Tekla, Advance Steel, and other platforms (Revit, AutoCAD, FrameCAD)
- Fast turnaround to meet tight project deadlines
Contact us today for a consultation on your next project:
📧 staren.vietnam@gmail.com
🌐 www.starengroup.com
🏢 282 Nguyen Huy Tuong Str, Thanh Xuan Dist, Hanoi, Vietnam
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