About a year ago, we developed a FERBOX® joint reinforcement plugin for Tekla Structures for Semtu Oy. The goal was straightforward: bring manufacturer-specific products directly into the structural engineer’s workflow so that FERBOX reinforcement units can be inserted into a Tekla model just like any other structural component.
The first version focused on the FERBOX B07S product, which is typically used in corbel connections cast into concrete walls. The plugin automatically generated the correct geometry, product parameters, and ordering code directly from the model.
The tool has now been updated.
The latest version expands support to FERBOX B05, B06, and B06S product families, increasing the number of available configurations to over 600 FERBOX variations.
Designers can download the plugin free of charge from Tekla Warehouse.
Modeling FERBOX joint reinforcement directly in Tekla Structures
FERBOX is a rebend connection reinforcement system used when reinforcement needs to continue across two separate concrete pours. The reinforcement is delivered in a protective casing and installed during the first pour. When the second pour is carried out later, the bars are exposed and bent out to create the connection.
In structural design, these solutions are commonly used in situations such as:
construction joints in concrete walls
wall–slab connections
corbels cast after the main wall structure
By modeling these details using manufacturer-specific FERBOX products, the model automatically contains the correct geometry, product parameters, and ordering information.
New FERBOX product types included in the update
The latest update introduces three additional FERBOX product types: B05, B06, and B06S. These are rebend connection reinforcement units designed for connecting reinforced concrete elements across different casting stages.
Adding these product families significantly expands the range of FERBOX solutions that can now be modeled directly within Tekla Structures.
Over 600 product configurations available
FERBOX products are available in a wide range of dimensional variations. Parameters such as bar diameter, casing width, spacing, and element length determine the final product configuration.
With the latest update, over 600 FERBOX product combinations can now be selected directly from the plugin interface.
For designers, this means the reinforcement no longer needs to be modeled manually. The correct product configuration can be selected in the tool and inserted into the model in just a few clicks.
Automatic product codes for drawings and IFC models
The plugin automatically generates the correct FERBOX product code based on the selected product parameters.
This ensures that:
product codes appear automatically in Tekla drawing material lists
the same information is included in IFC models
designers do not need to manage product codes manually
As a result, the products used in the model directly correspond to the manufacturer’s catalog.
Available on Tekla Warehouse
The Semtu FERBOX® plugin for Tekla Structures is available for download on Tekla Warehouse. The tool continues to evolve based on feedback from designers, with the aim of making manufacturer-specific concrete connection solutions a natural part of the Tekla modeling workflow.
The plugin is available free of charge on Tekla Warehouse.
If you are interested in making your own products available to designers in digital form, feel free to get in touch.