Export to IFC, STEP, IGES, OBJ ,STL, DGN, DWG, DXF, and SKP with the Multi Converter
Not version-specific
Tekla Structures
Environment
Not environment-specific
In this article we will explain the process needed to export your Tekla model to IFC, STEP, IGES, OBJ, STL, DGN, DWG, DXF, and SKP formats. In prior versions the STEP/IGES converter was used to export to IGES or STEP, this has been replaced by the Multi Converter.
Prerequisites
Before you start, see if the Multi Converter application is added to Tekla Structures. This can be checked by opening Tekla Structures and open a model you wish to export. Then, go to Applications and Components catalog and search for Multi Converter.
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If the Multi Converter is not present it may be necessary to add the Multi Converter from Tekla Warehouse. (Please note that you must be logged in to see the download buttons.)
Getting started with the Multi Converter
To open Multi Converter, simply double click its icon in the Applications & components catalog. Available export formats are:
- IFC — Typically an IFC export is created using ☰ (File) > Export > IFC. Using Multi Converter is generally used when multiple individual files is desired.
- STP — This exports the model as STEP AP214.
- IGS — This exports the model in IGES format.
- OBJ — This is a Geometry definition file (not extrusion) and can be used for 3D printers and rendering software.
- STL — Typically used for additive manufacturing (3D printing) machines.
- DGN — This format is typically used with Bentley Systems, MicroStation and Intergraph's IGDS (Interactive Graphics Design System) CAD programs.
- SKP — For use with SketchUp
- DWG
- DXF
Options in the Multi Format Converter
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Please see the Multi converter support article for additional information not presented here.
- 1 file by part mark - This option will create one file per part mark and label the file with the part mark. For example, if I have 10 C1's, 4 C3's, and 2 B2's and I run the converter I will get 3 files named
C1.ifc,C3.ifc, andB2.ifc. - 1 file by assembly mark - This option is similar to the 1 file by part mark except it will export one file per assembly mark.
- 1 file by object - This option gives you one file per object in the model, so if you have 50 parts in the model you will get 50 files. These files are named with the object ID number and you cannot adjust the naming schema. When using this option you can choose to include or exclude bolts.
- 1 file by phase - This option allows you to use the already created phases in your model and export one file per phase. When using this option you can include or exclude bolts.
- 1 file for all - This option allows you to export the entire model to one file. Bolts can be excluded or included.