Importing an IFC model into Tekla Structures is a straightforward process primarily used for collaboration and overlaying designs from other software. You import an IFC file into Tekla Structures as a reference model.
Here are the steps to bring your IFC model into Tekla:
Steps to Import an IFC File as a Reference Model
To insert an IFC file into your current Tekla Structures project, follow these simple steps:
- Open Your Tekla Model: Launch Tekla Structures and open the specific model where you want to add the IFC reference file.
- Access the Import Menu: Navigate to the main application menu. Go to the File menu, and select Import > Insert reference model. This action opens two crucial windows: the Reference Models list, which shows models already inserted, and the Add model dialog box, which you will use to select your new file.
- Select the IFC File: In the Add model dialog box, browse to the location of your IFC file (
.ifc,.ifczip) on your computer or network. Select the file and click Open. - Adjust Import Settings (Optional): Before inserting, you might see options to adjust the file's insertion point, rotation, and scale. By default, Tekla often uses the coordinates defined within the IFC file, which is recommended if the originating software used shared coordinates. You can modify these settings if needed, but be cautious as it affects the model's position.
- Insert the Model: Click the Add model button in the dialog box. Tekla Structures will then process and insert the IFC file into your current view as a reference model.
- View the Reference Model: The inserted IFC model will now appear in your Tekla view. You can manage its visibility, color, and other properties via the Reference Models list (which opened in Step 2).
Managing Reference Models
Once imported, the IFC file is listed in the Reference Models panel. From here, you can:
- Toggle its visibility on or off.
- Change its color or transparency.
- Move, rotate, or scale the reference model relative to your Tekla model.
- Refresh the reference model if the original IFC file has been updated.
- Remove the reference model from your Tekla project.
Importing IFC files as reference models is essential for clash detection, coordination, and visualizing how your Tekla-created structures interact with elements designed in other BIM software.
