Save the .lis file to a shared network location or your firm's firm folder. Importing Profiles: Open the Profile Catalog in the target model. Click the button. Browse to the desired .lis file. Review the conflicts or merge options, then click OK . Save the catalog changes. Profile Properties and Analysis Attributes
The in Tekla Structures is a centralized, parametric database of cross-sectional shapes used in structural modeling. It replaces the legacy profdb.bin file from older versions (pre-2017) and provides a more flexible, user-friendly interface for managing, searching, and customizing profiles. The catalog supports standard shapes (I-beams, channels, angles, hollow sections) as well as parametric and user-defined profiles. Its efficient management is critical for accurate detailing, material estimation, and connection design.
In Tekla, navigate to .
Customize the profile catalog - Trimble User Assistance - Tekla
Change the name in the field (e.g., rename HEB300 to HEB300_MOD ). Update the dimensions on the General tab. Click Update and save the changes to the model directory. Method B: Creating Parametric Profiles Using profitab.inp tekla structures profile catalog
Standard, static shapes available directly from manufacturers (e.g., W-shapes, UC beams, hollow sections). Their dimensions cannot change dynamically in the model.
Tekla Structures Profile Catalog is the digital backbone of a BIM (Building Information Modeling) model, serving as a comprehensive library of all the cross-sections—like beams, columns, and plates—that make up a project. It’s more than just a list; it’s a dynamic database where standard engineering shapes meet custom architectural designs. What’s Inside the Catalog?
Mastering the Tekla Structures Profile Catalog: A Comprehensive Guide
The profile catalog in Tekla Structures is the foundational database that defines the cross-sectional shapes and dimensions of structural elements used in a Building Information Modeling (BIM) project. It contains standard parametric profiles, library profiles, and user-defined shapes required for modeling steel, concrete, and timber structures. Save the
Cross-sectional area, Moment of Inertia (I), Torsional constant (J)
Browse to the DXF file, assign a profile name, and map it to a profile type.
The right-hand pane displays critical geometric metadata used by downstream engineering and detailing teams. This includes the cross-sectional area, moments of inertia ( ), section moduli (
Standard shapes do not always cover architectural or heavy industrial requirements. Tekla Structures allows users to define custom cross-sections using three distinct methods. Method 1: Defining a Cross-Section Using a Polygon Browse to the desired
Cause: The upgrade process overwritten or replaced the local environment catalog files.
Tekla Structures categorizes profiles into five distinct types:
"Fixed profiles" are standard sections like W200x100. To modify or create these:
When you open a model, Tekla loads profile data from specific files located in your environment, firm, or model folders:
When standard geometric shapes are insufficient, you can draw a custom cross-section using the . This tool allows you to draw any arbitrary shape, define parametric variables (like making the flange thickness editable), and save it directly into the Profile Catalog for repetitive use. Best Practices for Catalog Management