One of the deliverables for steel detailers is drawings. But unlike artistic drawings, these drawings provide crucial information for any steel project. Let’s take a look at the most common drawings in steel projects – shop drawings and erection drawings.
What’s the difference between them?
What are Shop Drawings?
In steel detailing, shop drawings are detailed plans used by steel fabricators to manufacture each steel component. Each drawing focuses on a single part or assembly. Here at Nexsteel Detailing, we use Tekla Structures, a specialised software for steel detailing, to generate shop drawings. These drawings are first reviewed and approved by structural engineers before fabrication can begin.
What is included in a Shop Drawing?
To help you remember, think of shop drawings as drawings made in a workshop. Shop drawings are used by steel fabricators.
A typical shop drawing may include some or all of the following:
- Exact dimensions of part or assembly
- Part mark, which is then used as reference in erection drawings
- Weld symbols
- Hole placements
- Material specifications
- Fabrication notes
- Bolt size and type
- Assembly or part cut
- Section view of part or assembly
- Detailed view of part or assembly
What is an Erection Drawing?
Once the parts have been fabricated, they need to be assembled safely and correctly on-site. Erection drawings provide an overall view on how each component fits together within the steel structure.
While shop drawings are used by steel fabricators, erection drawings are used by site crews, riggers, and crane operators to place and connect each piece in the right order and position. Clear labeling is critical, and part marks are used as reference. Here at Nexsteel Detailing, we use Tekla Structures to create erection drawings, too. This ensures that part marks are consistent between our shop drawings and erection drawings.
What is included in an Erection Drawing?
To help you remember, think of erection drawings as drawings that are used on-site to erect the building.
A typical erection drawing created by steel detailers may include all or some of the following:
- An overall view of the assemblies and parts within the steel structure
- Elevation and grid references
- Section views
- Part marks corresponding to shop drawings
Work with a Trusted Steel Detailing Partner
At Nexsteel Detailing, we provide accurate steel detailing services for fabricators and contractors locally and overseas. Based in New Zealand, we combine international standards with clear communication and fast delivery. Whether you’re building residential or industrial, we’re here to support your team with highly qualified steel detailers to provide you with high quality shop drawings and 3D models that get the job done right.
Ready to start your next project?
Contact us today for a free quote or consultation. Let’s bring your vision to life – with steel detailing you can trust.