What Is Structural Steel Detailing Types and Process

Structural steel detailing is a specialized process that involves the creation of detailed drawings and plans used for the fabrication and erection of steel structures. These drawings are crucial in ensuring that steel components fit together correctly and meet safety standards set by organizations like the American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), the National Institute of Steel Detailing (NISD), and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). 

At Simsona Steel, we specialize in producing high-quality structural steel and miscellaneous metal fabrication shop drawings, ensuring that all client requirements are met while adhering to industry standards. Our detailing services support fabricators, engineers, and contractors, making the entire construction process smoother and more efficient. 

Importance of Steel Detailing in Construction Projects 

Steel detailing plays a critical role in construction by ensuring accuracy in the fabrication and erection of steel structures. Without detailed shop and erection drawings, projects may face delays, cost overruns, and structural failures. 

Key benefits include: 

Enhanced Structural Integrity – Ensures precise fabrication and proper alignment of steel components. 

Improved Project Efficiency – Reduces rework and material waste through detailed planning. 

Compliance with Safety Standards – Adheres to AISC, NISD, and OSHA guidelines for safety and durability. 

Seamless Communication – Provides a clear blueprint for fabricators, engineers, and construction teams. 

Types of Structural Steel Detailing 

1. Shop Drawings 

Shop drawings are detailed blueprints used by fabricators to cut, weld, and assemble steel components. These include: 

• Dimensions and specifications for each steel member 

• Connection details (welding, bolting, or riveting) 

• Material specifications to ensure structural integrity 

Simsona Steel ensures highly accurate shop drawings through consistent communication with clients and an experienced staff, delivering on-time reports and drawings customized to client standards. 

2. Erection Drawings 

Erection drawings provide instructions for assembling steel components on-site. These include: 

Precise positioning of steel members in the structure 

Bolting and welding specifications 

Crane placement details for heavy lifting operations 

Our team can provide Production Tracking Reports, including Anchor Bolt Maps (ABM), Shop and Field Bolt Lists, Material Summaries, and Gather Sheets, ensuring a seamless fabrication and erection process. 

3. Miscellaneous Metal Detailing 

This category includes non-structural steel components like: 

Handrails, ladders, and stairs 

Metal grating and ornamental structures 

Support brackets and frames 

We guarantee precision and efficiency in all miscellaneous metal detailing projects, helping clients streamline the entire workflow. 

4. As-Built Drawings and 3D Modeling 

Using advanced LiDAR technology, Simsona Steel provides highly accurate as-built drawings and 3D models, ensuring quality control and clash detection. This reduces rework and material wastage, saving both time and cost. 

Structural Steel DetailingProcess 

Step 1: Gathering Information 

The detailing process begins with collecting architectural and engineering design plans. These drawings serve as the foundation for creating detailed shop and erection drawings. 

Step 2: 3D Modeling & Clash Detection 

Using advanced 3D modeling software, the structure is modeled digitally to detect potential clashes and errors before fabrication begins. Simsona Steel offers CNC, KSS, DXF, and VRML files for material management software systems, ensuring compatibility with clients’ shop production lines. 

Step 3: Shop Drawings & Reports 

Detailed fabrication and erection drawings are created, ensuring each component is correctly designed. Simsona Steel offers CNC files, reports, and data compatible with Controlled Automation, Peddinghaus/Peddimat, Fabtrol, and custom programs, enabling seamless fabrication and erection workflows. 

Step 4: Quality Control & Revisions 

Each drawing undergoes strict quality control checks to ensure accuracy. At this stage, any necessary revisions are made before final approval. 

Step 5: Fabrication & Erection Support 

Once approved, the shop drawings guide the fabrication process. The erection drawings are then used to assemble the steel structure on-site. Dropbox access is provided for secure and convenient file transfers, ensuring a smooth communication flow between all stakeholders. 

Why Choose Simsona Steel for Structural Steel Detailing? 

• Expertise Across All 50 States: We provide structural calculations and PE-stamped drawings in all 50 states. 

• More Than 25 Years of Industry Experience: Our top management brings decades of experience in steel detailing, ensuring industry-leading solutions. 

• Imperial & Metric Measurement Formats: We produce drawings in both Imperial and Metric systems to meet global project requirements. 

• Advanced Technology & Accuracy: Our team utilizes 3D modeling, LiDAR technology, and clash detection systems to enhance accuracy and efficiency. 

• Customizable Data Integration: We can produce CNC files and reports tailored to your specific software and equipment. 

Final Thoughts 

Structural steel detailing is a crucial step in any construction project, ensuring that steel components are fabricated and erected with precision. With Simsona Steel, you get a dedicated team, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled expertise, delivering high-quality drawings and reports that keep your projects on track. Whether you need shop drawings, 3D models, or as-built reports, we have the experience and technology to provide it efficiently. 

Partner with Simsona Steel today for reliable, accurate, and industry-compliant structural steel detailing services.