Trimble brings connected workflows to UK Metals Expo

Bringing its powerful Tekla BIM software tools to UK Metals Expo 2023 (Stand P34), Trimble is looking forward to demonstrating its design to manufacturing workflow to visitors, with a host of technological solutions available for the metal fabrication industry.

Taking place at Birmingham’s NEC on 13-14 September, visitors to the Trimble stand (P34) will have the opportunity to learn more about its Tekla software tools for the entire metal fabrication workflow, including Tekla Structures, Trimble Connect and Tekla PowerFab.

Tekla PowerFab was created specifically for and with steel fabricators, putting fabricators in true control of their operations. A comprehensive software suite, Tekla PowerFab connects all processes from estimating, project, procurement and fabrication teams into one centralised hub, enabling fabricators to make more informed decisions and have real-time visibility to all important project information.

Combined with Tekla Structures (the BIM modelling software) and fabricators stand to benefit from constructible data and a streamlined flow of information - benefits that ultimately translate through to a successful and problem-free erection on site.

As well as learning more about Tekla Structures and Tekla PowerFab, the Trimble team will also be on hand to show visitors how Tekla’s connected workflows can be applied to materials other than steel, with the software able to be used with multiple materials and covering all workflow stages. In fact, Tekla Structures’ capabilities extend far beyond structural steel, commonly used for temporary works, smaller items like staircases and balconies, rebar and precast concrete too.

For example, Small Projects winner at the Tekla Awards 2023 were Delta Fabrications, who created stairs and drinks baulastrades for @Soho Place Theatre in Tekla Structures.

Joining Trimble on its stand is Lindapter International, renowned in the industry for manufacturing and supplying innovative steelwork connections. After partnering with Trimble in 2022 with the launch of a new Tekla plug-in tool, enabling the efficient and accurate detailing of the Hollo-Bolt system into structural steel models, Lindapter will be doing live demonstrations of its Hollo-Bolt tool on the stand. The demonstration will showcase the ease and efficiency with which the Hollo-Bolt can be installed, highlighting its ability to streamline construction processes, saving time and money.

Sunny Bansal, Engineering Director at Lindapter, explains the impact of the plug-in: This plug-in provides a simplified and improved user experience for fabricators and steel detailers, enabling them to utilise our Steelwork Connection Solutions within Tekla's digital and automated 3D environment.

As well as exhibiting, Trimble is proud to be sponsoring the Innovation & Technology theatre, where Duncan Reed, Trimble’s Business Development Manager, will be hosting the Connected Construction keynote. Also speaking will be Craig Johnson, Trimble’s Business Development Manager for Detailing & Manufacturing, chairing a panel discussion on connected construction with a range of businesses from SME to large fabricators, structural steel & rebar engineers and robotics manufacturer & suppliers due to take part.

Speaking about the event, Craig Johnson, Business Development Manager for Detailing & Manufacturing at Trimble said: We’ve very much been looking forward to the UK Metals Expo, our first time exhibiting at the show in recent years. Working closely with our customers in the steel and fabrication industry, we know that the last few years have been incredibly challenging, with rising prices and increased client demand, as well as the push on sustainability. We’re here to show that digital technologies and tools can help to take some of this pressure off, helping fabricators and contractors to make their businesses more efficient, profitable and productive, all while offering added value to clients.

Part of Trimble’s Construction portfolio, Tekla software drives more detail and data into structural BIM workflows for a deeper understanding of your designs at every phase. It includes powerful BIM software tools for structural design and analysis and steel detailing, as well as steel fabrication management with Tekla PowerFab.

UK Metals Expo is an annual event that brings the entire metals supply chain together with engineering and manufacturing. Designed to foster relationships across the supply chain, the event is also an opportunity to share best practices, showcase top solutions and drive innovation in the industry. In addition to hundreds of exhibitors, UK Metals Expo also features a comprehensive conference programme with over 50 sessions across four seminar theatres.

For more information about Tekla PowerFab, please visit: www.tek.la/tpf.