Quick Overview
- 1#1: Tekla Structures - Comprehensive BIM software for 3D modeling, automated detailing, fabrication management, and construction coordination of steel structures.
- 2#2: SDS/2 - Intelligent 3D steel detailing software with automated connection design, clash detection, and fast production of fabrication drawings.
- 3#3: Advance Steel - Parametric 3D modeling tool for steel structures, generating fabrication drawings, BOMs, and NC files within the AutoCAD environment.
- 4#4: ProSteel - Integrated 3D steel detailing software for creating precise fabrication models, shop drawings, and CNC data in infrastructure projects.
- 5#5: AVEVA Bocad - Specialized 3D CAD software for complex steel detailing, automated fabrication outputs, and erection planning.
- 6#6: StruM.I.S - Full ERP platform for steel fabricators, handling estimating, production control, inventory, and project management.
- 7#7: FabSuite - End-to-end production control software optimizing steel fabrication processes from nesting to shipping.
- 8#8: SteelProjects - 3D CAD/CAM system for steel detailing, automated nesting, and direct CNC machine interfacing.
- 9#9: FrameWorks - 3D structural steel design software with automated modeling, drawing generation, and code checking.
- 10#10: StruCAD - Robust 2D/3D steel detailing application for producing fabrication drawings and CNC data efficiently.
Tools were selected and ranked based on key features like 3D modeling, automation, integration capabilities, and clash detection, alongside factors such as user-friendliness, reliability, and value for fabricators.
Comparison Table
This comparison table examines leading structural steel fabrication software, including Tekla Structures, SDS/2, Advance Steel, ProSteel, AVEVA Bocad, and more, offering insights into key features, workflow integration, and performance to aid in software selection. It guides readers through evaluating tools based on their specific project requirements and fabrication processes, ensuring informed decisions for efficient steel detailing and production.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tekla Structures Comprehensive BIM software for 3D modeling, automated detailing, fabrication management, and construction coordination of steel structures. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| 2 | SDS/2 Intelligent 3D steel detailing software with automated connection design, clash detection, and fast production of fabrication drawings. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 3 | Advance Steel Parametric 3D modeling tool for steel structures, generating fabrication drawings, BOMs, and NC files within the AutoCAD environment. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | ProSteel Integrated 3D steel detailing software for creating precise fabrication models, shop drawings, and CNC data in infrastructure projects. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | AVEVA Bocad Specialized 3D CAD software for complex steel detailing, automated fabrication outputs, and erection planning. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | StruM.I.S Full ERP platform for steel fabricators, handling estimating, production control, inventory, and project management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 7 | FabSuite End-to-end production control software optimizing steel fabrication processes from nesting to shipping. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 8 | SteelProjects 3D CAD/CAM system for steel detailing, automated nesting, and direct CNC machine interfacing. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.8/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 9 | FrameWorks 3D structural steel design software with automated modeling, drawing generation, and code checking. | specialized | 8.0/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 10 | StruCAD Robust 2D/3D steel detailing application for producing fabrication drawings and CNC data efficiently. | specialized | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.0/10 |
Comprehensive BIM software for 3D modeling, automated detailing, fabrication management, and construction coordination of steel structures.
Intelligent 3D steel detailing software with automated connection design, clash detection, and fast production of fabrication drawings.
Parametric 3D modeling tool for steel structures, generating fabrication drawings, BOMs, and NC files within the AutoCAD environment.
Integrated 3D steel detailing software for creating precise fabrication models, shop drawings, and CNC data in infrastructure projects.
Specialized 3D CAD software for complex steel detailing, automated fabrication outputs, and erection planning.
Full ERP platform for steel fabricators, handling estimating, production control, inventory, and project management.
End-to-end production control software optimizing steel fabrication processes from nesting to shipping.
3D CAD/CAM system for steel detailing, automated nesting, and direct CNC machine interfacing.
3D structural steel design software with automated modeling, drawing generation, and code checking.
Robust 2D/3D steel detailing application for producing fabrication drawings and CNC data efficiently.
Tekla Structures
enterpriseComprehensive BIM software for 3D modeling, automated detailing, fabrication management, and construction coordination of steel structures.
Direct, error-free generation of NC/DSTV files for CNC plasma cutters, saws, and drills, bridging design and fabrication perfectly.
Tekla Structures is a premier BIM software platform from Trimble, designed specifically for structural steel design, detailing, fabrication, and construction management. It enables users to build intelligent 3D models of steel structures, automatically generating fabrication drawings, CNC machine files, erection plans, and reports with high accuracy. Widely adopted in industries like bridges, stadiums, and industrial plants, it supports end-to-end workflows from engineering to on-site assembly.
Pros
- Exceptional accuracy in 3D steel modeling and automated detailing
- Seamless integration with CNC fabrication machines via direct NC file output
- Advanced clash detection, collaboration tools, and customizable reporting
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High cost with resource-intensive system requirements
- Complex interface can overwhelm beginners
Best For
Large-scale steel fabricators, detailers, and engineering firms handling complex structural projects like bridges and high-rises.
Pricing
Annual subscription starts at around $15,000-$25,000 per user, with tiered plans, add-on modules, and maintenance fees.
SDS/2
specializedIntelligent 3D steel detailing software with automated connection design, clash detection, and fast production of fabrication drawings.
Fully automated production of CNC machine files directly from the 3D model, minimizing manual data entry.
SDS/2 is a leading 3D structural steel modeling and detailing software used for designing, fabricating, and erecting steel structures. It automates the creation of shop drawings, CNC files, bills of material, and erection plans from intelligent 3D models. The software excels in handling complex connections, plate processing, and integration with fabrication machinery, making it a staple in the steel industry.
Pros
- Advanced automation for connection design and detailing
- Seamless CNC file generation and fabrication integration
- Robust handling of large-scale, complex steel projects
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High initial and ongoing costs
- Less intuitive interface compared to newer competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large steel fabrication shops managing intricate structural projects requiring high automation and precision.
Pricing
Quote-based pricing; typically $12,000–$25,000 per license annually, plus modules and training.
Advance Steel
enterpriseParametric 3D modeling tool for steel structures, generating fabrication drawings, BOMs, and NC files within the AutoCAD environment.
Intelligent, rule-based connection modeling that automatically adjusts to member geometry and loads for fabrication-ready designs
Advance Steel, developed by Autodesk, is a specialized 3D modeling software for structural steel detailing and fabrication, built on the AutoCAD platform. It enables users to create intelligent 3D models of steel structures, including beams, connections, stairs, and railings, with automatic generation of 2D fabrication drawings, BOMs, and NC files for CNC machines. The software supports international design codes and standards, facilitating efficient workflows from design to shop floor production.
Pros
- Comprehensive library of parametric connections and custom profiles for complex steel structures
- Automated production of fabrication drawings, lists, and CNC outputs saving significant time
- Deep integration with AutoCAD, Revit, and the Autodesk AEC Collection for BIM workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to reliance on AutoCAD expertise
- High subscription cost may not suit small firms
- Occasional performance lags with very large models
Best For
Mid-to-large steel fabrication shops and detailing firms handling complex projects that benefit from Autodesk ecosystem integration.
Pricing
Annual subscription starting at approximately $2,310 USD; included in Autodesk AEC Collection for broader access at $3,035/year.
ProSteel
enterpriseIntegrated 3D steel detailing software for creating precise fabrication models, shop drawings, and CNC data in infrastructure projects.
Intelligent parametric connection library that automates design and adapts to custom fabrication requirements
ProSteel from Bentley Systems is a robust 3D modeling and detailing software designed specifically for structural steel fabrication workflows. It allows users to create intelligent 3D models of steel structures, automate the production of fabrication drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and CNC machine files. Integrated within Bentley's MicroStation platform, it supports seamless collaboration across design, detailing, and fabrication phases.
Pros
- Advanced parametric modeling for complex steel connections and structures
- Automated generation of shop drawings, BOMs, and NC files for fabrication
- Strong integration with Bentley's ecosystem including OpenBuildings Designer
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to reliance on MicroStation interface
- High cost may deter small fabrication shops
- Less intuitive for users unfamiliar with Bentley workflows compared to standalone competitors
Best For
Large fabrication shops and engineering firms integrated into the Bentley software ecosystem seeking enterprise-grade steel detailing.
Pricing
Subscription-based, typically $6,000–$12,000 per year per user depending on modules and enterprise licensing.
AVEVA Bocad
enterpriseSpecialized 3D CAD software for complex steel detailing, automated fabrication outputs, and erection planning.
Intelligent, parametric connection modeling that automatically updates drawings and NC data with design changes
AVEVA Bocad is a specialized 3D modeling software suite for structural steel detailing, fabrication, and erection, enabling precise modeling of complex steel frameworks from beams to connections. It automates the generation of fabrication drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), NC/CNC files, and erection plans, streamlining the workflow from design to shop floor. Integrated within the AVEVA portfolio, it supports clash detection and collaboration for large-scale industrial projects.
Pros
- Advanced automated connection design and 3D modeling for complex structures
- Direct output of fabrication-ready NC data and shop drawings
- Strong integration with AVEVA's engineering ecosystem for seamless workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training
- High enterprise-level pricing not suited for small firms
- Primarily steel-focused with limited multi-material support
Best For
Large steel fabrication shops and engineering firms handling industrial-scale projects like plants and bridges.
Pricing
Enterprise subscription licensing with custom quotes; typically starts at tens of thousands annually per seat.
StruM.I.S
enterpriseFull ERP platform for steel fabricators, handling estimating, production control, inventory, and project management.
Integrated production control system with real-time shop floor tracking and automatic CNC file generation
StruM.I.S is a comprehensive software suite designed specifically for structural steel fabrication, integrating detailing, CNC nesting, production control, and project management into a single platform. It supports the full workflow from engineering drawings to shop floor execution, including advanced material optimization and real-time tracking. Developed by StruSoft, it caters to fabricators handling complex steel structures with modules like StruCNC for nesting and StruM.I.S Production for scheduling.
Pros
- End-to-end integration from design to delivery minimizes data silos
- Advanced nesting algorithms optimize material usage and reduce waste
- Robust CNC integration supports multiple machine types for seamless production
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its comprehensive and modular nature
- Primarily desktop-based with limited cloud or mobile accessibility
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small fabrication shops
Best For
Mid-to-large structural steel fabricators managing complex projects that require integrated detailing, nesting, and production control.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on modules and users; typically perpetual licenses starting at $20,000+ with annual maintenance, or subscription models upon request.
FabSuite
specializedEnd-to-end production control software optimizing steel fabrication processes from nesting to shipping.
Advanced automated nesting engine that optimizes plate and bar stock to minimize waste and maximize throughput
FabSuite is a comprehensive ERP/MRP software suite tailored for structural steel fabrication operations, managing everything from quoting and estimating to production control, inventory, and shipping. It features advanced nesting optimization, shop floor tracking, and integration with detailing tools like SDS/2 and Tekla. Designed for efficiency in steel fab shops, it reduces waste and streamlines workflows across the fabrication process.
Pros
- Fully integrated shop management from cradle to grave
- Superior nesting and material optimization tools
- Robust production scheduling and real-time tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex initial setup
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile access
- High cost for smaller operations
Best For
Medium to large structural steel fabricators needing end-to-end production control and scalability.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing based on modules, users, and shop size; typically starts at several thousand per month with implementation fees.
SteelProjects
specialized3D CAD/CAM system for steel detailing, automated nesting, and direct CNC machine interfacing.
Integrated nesting optimization with real-time production scheduling to minimize material waste and maximize throughput
SteelProjects is a cloud-based software suite tailored for structural steel fabricators, covering the full lifecycle from estimating and quoting to detailing, nesting, production control, and project management. It integrates with major CAD tools like Tekla Structures and SDS/2, enabling seamless data flow and automation across workflows. The platform emphasizes efficiency through real-time tracking, waste reduction via advanced nesting, and customizable reporting for better decision-making.
Pros
- Comprehensive end-to-end workflow automation for fabrication processes
- Robust integrations with Tekla, SDS/2, and other industry tools
- Cloud accessibility for real-time collaboration and remote monitoring
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Pricing scales quickly with additional modules and users
- Limited mobile app functionality compared to desktop experience
Best For
Mid-sized structural steel fabrication companies handling complex projects that need integrated estimating, production, and project management.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $500/month for basic modules, scaling with users and add-ons; quotes required.
FrameWorks
specialized3D structural steel design software with automated modeling, drawing generation, and code checking.
CodePipe automated connection detailing engine for rapid, standards-compliant joint design
FrameWorks by Elecosoft is a comprehensive 3D CAD software tailored for structural steel detailing, design, and fabrication management. It allows users to model complex steel frames parametrically, automate the generation of fabrication drawings, bills of materials (BOMs), and NC data for CNC machines. The software supports clash detection, project reporting, and seamless integration from design through to shop floor production, making it a reliable tool for steel fabricators.
Pros
- Robust parametric 3D modeling with extensive steel component libraries
- Automated drawing production and NC file generation for efficient fabrication
- Strong integration with CNC machinery and fabrication workflows
Cons
- Steeper learning curve due to traditional CAD interface
- Limited native cloud collaboration or BIM interoperability compared to newer tools
- Custom pricing can be prohibitive for small firms
Best For
Medium to large steel fabrication companies requiring detailed 3D modeling and end-to-end production management.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses with annual maintenance; custom quotes starting around $10,000+ per seat, contact vendor for details.
StruCAD
specializedRobust 2D/3D steel detailing application for producing fabrication drawings and CNC data efficiently.
Seamless CNC code generation directly from 3D models for multiple fabrication machines, reducing manual data transfer errors.
StruCAD by Graitec is a specialized software for structural steel detailing, design, and fabrication, offering 3D modeling tools to create accurate models of steel structures from engineering drawings. It automates connection detailing, clash detection, and generates comprehensive bills of materials (BOMs) along with CNC files for plasma cutting, drilling, and other fabrication processes. The software streamlines the workflow from design to shop floor production, making it suitable for steel fabricators handling complex projects.
Pros
- Powerful 3D modeling and automated connection design for complex steel structures
- Direct generation of fabrication-ready CNC files and BOMs
- Reliable integration with common fabrication machinery
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dated interface
- Limited modern cloud or BIM collaboration features compared to competitors
- High initial cost and maintenance fees
Best For
Mid-sized steel fabrication shops focused on detailed modeling and efficient shop-floor production outputs.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at approximately $15,000-$25,000 per seat with annual maintenance around 20%; volume discounts and subscriptions available—contact Graitec for quotes.
Conclusion
Across the reviewed tools, Tekla Structures emerges as the top choice, offering unmatched comprehensive BIM capabilities, automated detailing, and construction coordination for steel projects. SDS/2 follows as a strong alternative, excelling in intelligent 3D design and clash detection, while Advance Steel impresses with its parametric modeling within the AutoCAD environment, catering to users preferring familiar interfaces. Each tool stands out in specific areas, ensuring there is a solution tailored to diverse needs in steel fabrication.
Take the next step in optimizing your steel fabrication workflow—explore Tekla Structures to unlock its seamless integration of design, detailing, and management, and see how it can transform your projects.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison