Metsec Roof and Side Rail Accessories

Modelling directions

Metsec Purlins (Zed sections) are to be modelled in the counter clockwise direction.

Metsec Eaves Beams and Side Rails are to be modelled in the clockwise direction.
Metsec Purlins
Default Metsec section along with settings can be loaded from the Tekla beam dialogue box.

To select the desired section size, click the Select button, and find the profile from the database.

The “At depth” value field controls how far off the rafter the Purlin is placed (8mm is default setting). Increasing this value
will give an extended sheeting line.
Metsec Side Rails

The “On Plane” value field controls how far off the column the rail will be placed.
Increasing this value will give an extended sheeting line.
Metsec Eaves Beams

The “On Plane” value, controls how far off the column the Eaves Beam is placed. The Metsec Eaves Beam range contains
two different flange sizes.

Table for values to achieve a flush sheeting line.

Rail Size Sheeting Line Eaves Beam Offset – (“On Plane” value)
(column to sheeting face, 170, 230 and 330 Eaves 270 Eaves Beam
mm) Beams - 90mm flange - 100mm flange
142 150 60 50
172 180 90 80
202 210 120 110
232 240 150 140
262 270 180 170
302 310 220 210
342 350 260 350
Metsec Eaves Brace (24)

The Metsec Eaves Brace macro can be used to

define an Eaves Brace individually between an Eaves
Beam and Purlin / Rail or between Two Purlins / Rails.

Requirements
For this macro the parts must be selected as follows:

An Eaves Beam and a Purlin, or Two Purlins / Side Rails.

A Point or Bolt for the position at which to insert the Tie.

Geometric Limitations

All Purlins must be parallel.

All Purlins must have the same offset from the Rafter.

Settings

Allows the Eaves Brace which is

asymmetrical to be rotated “left” or “right”

Allows the use of the Web Stiffening cleat

Eaves Strut can be fixed to the opposite side

of the cleat

Ensure “Select objects in components” is

selected.

An Eaves Beam then a Purlin or Two Purlins,

Select a Point or Bolt for the position at which to

insert the Tie
Metsec Eaves Beam to Stanchion (104)

The Metsec Eaves Beam to Stanchion macro can be used to

define a fixing bracket between a column and either one or
two Metsec Eaves Beams or Metsec Channel sections.

Requirements
For this connection the parts must be selected as follows:

A Stanchion, which can be of any type - connection can go to the web or flange.
1 or 2 Eaves Beams or C-Sections. Both secondaries should have identical profiles.

Geometric Limitations of the Eaves Beam to Stanchion Connection

At a gable or corner, the user must have already defined a short Eaves Beam to act as a stub if required.
Secondaries selected must be perpendicular to the Stanchion.

Settings

Bracket can either be welded or bolted to

Column.

Plate size and location can be controlled

Connecting profile can be rotated to suit

“left” or “right” depending on condition.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select a column, followed by 1 or 2 Eaves

Beams or a C Section.
Metsec Non-Standard Horizontal Cladding (34)
The Metsec Non-Standard Horizontal Cladding macro can be used to
define HCS or a PCR strut between two rails or an Eaves
Beam and a Rail.

Requirements
For this connection the parts must be selected as follows, either:

Two Metsec rails and a point, bolt or hole along the rail
Or an Eaves Beam, a rail and a point, bolt or hole along the rail.

Geometric Limitations

Sheeting face must be parallel.

Rails can be either C’s or Z’s or a mixture.

Settings

Chose between either a PJR or HCS type strut.

PJR and HCS can be rotated “left” and “right”.

Struts can be used with different end cleats.

PJR profile type can be changed.

Bolt grade, and type can be changed for each

end of the strut.

Ensure “Select objects in components” is

selected.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the two rails in any order.

Select either a bolt, hole or point along one
of the rails.
Metsec Base Plate (1006)
The Metsec Base Detail will add cleats to the end of a
Metsec column to provide a base for the connection of the column.

Requirements
For this macro the parts must be selected as follows :

Primary member can be C Section or Compound C Section.

Point indicating the position along the member at which
to place the base detail.

Geometric Limitations

Compound members must be parallel.

Column must be a Metsec C Section.

Settings

Pick which side of column to fix cleat to.

Control for the column cut back.

The base plate can either be defined with

holes or bolts.

Allows control of the number, pitch,

spacing and type of bolts used.

Ensure “Select objects in components”

is selected.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the column (if compound

member just select one of the columns)
Pick a point on the column.
Metsec Diagonal Ties (27)
The Metsec Diagonal Tie macro allows the placing of one or two
Diagonal Tie Wires between any two or three selected bolts.

Requirements
To apply the macro select two appropriate bolts from the model.
Both bolts must pass through a rail.

Geometric Limitations
The Metsec diagonal tie is designed to cater for angles
Between 25o and 65o but the macro will allow the tie to be
placed for angles from 10o to 80o.

Notes
It is important to realise that any modification of the parts to which this macro applies is likely to cause incorrect results in the
model. If it is necessary to change any of the members upon which the macro is dependent, then first delete all the parts
created by the macro, then make the required changes and finally re-apply the macro.

Settings

When used with side rail support struts the

standard hole offset is 70mm.
For the HCS and PJR application, the standard
offset is 100mm.
These values have to be manually entered
by the user, default setting is zero.

Offset can be set for each end of the

diagonal tie.

Ensure “Select objects in components” is

selected.

Select the required bolts, normally a bolt on

the cleat, and one on the strut.
Metsec Simple Hip (14)
The Simple Hip Joint is provided to form a connection between a
single cold-rolled Purlin and a hip or valley rafter.

Selecting Members

A Hot Rolled rafter (UB, UC or Channel), and a single Purlin.

Settings

The position between the Rafter and

the Purlin will define the plate size

If required a stiffener can be added

to the connection.

Purlin length can be controlled,

along with position of bolts.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select a Hip or Valley Rafter, then a Purlin.

Metsec Non-Standard Anti-Sag (25)
The Metsec Non Standard Anti-Sag macro can be used to define
Round Loks / Anti-Sag bars individually between selected Purlins.

Selecting Members
For this macro the parts must be selected as follows:

Two Purlins (the order in which the Purlins are selected will
determine the up direction of any Round Lok created by this macro.
The Round Lok will always be placed going to the top gauge line
on the 1st Purlin and the bottom gauge line on the 2nd Purlin.)
Point or Bolt for position at which to insert the Anti Sag.

Geometric Limitations

All Purlin lengths must be parallel.

All Purlins must have the same offset from the Rafter.

Note :- It is important to realise that any modification of the parts to which this macro applies is likely to cause incorrect results
in the model. If it is necessary to change any of the members upon which the macro is dependent, then first delete all the parts
created by the macro, then make the required changes and finally re-apply the macro.

Settings

Select between Round Lok and

Anti-Sag Bars

Anti-Sags can be switched “left”

or “right” depending on the
circumstances.

Ensure “Select objects in components” is

selected.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the two Purlins in any order.

Select a bolt, hole or point along the Purlin.

Metsec Non Standard Side Rail (32)
The Metsec Non Standard Side Rail support macro can be used to
define individual supports between two Side Rails, or a Side Rail and an
Eaves Beam

Selecting Members
For this macro the parts must be selected as follows:

Two Rails or an Eaves Beam followed by a Rail.

Point or Bolt for the position at which to insert the support.

Geometric Limitations

All Rail lengths must be parallel.

An Eaves Beam must be parallel to the Rail.
The outside of the Rails or Eaves beams must align.

Settings

Chose between Standard and

Heavy Duty type struts.

The end cleats can be rotated

through 1800.

The bolt type at each end of the

strut can be controlled.

Ensure “Select objects in components” is

selected.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the two Purlins in any order.

Select a bolt, hole or point along the Purlin.

Metsec Gable Post Shear Plate (105)
The Metsec Non Standard Side Rail support macro can be used to
define individual supports between two Side Rails, or a Side Rail and an
Eaves Beam.

Selecting Members
For this macro the parts must be selected as follows:

Two Rails or an Eaves Beam followed by a Rail.

Point or Bolt for the position at which to insert the support.

Geometric Limitations

All rail lengths must be parallel.

An Eaves Beam must be parallel to the rail.
The outside of the Rails or Eaves Beam must align.

Settings

Controls the cut back

of the column.

Cleat can placed on either the

inside or outside of the column.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the rafter and then the column.

Metsec Apex Ties (30)

The Metsec Apex Tie macro can be used to define various

types of Apex Ties between the two purlins which form the apex.

Geometric Limitations

Selected Purlins must be facing each other.

Selected Purlins must have the same section depth.

Settings

Pick between Std Apex Tie,

and Angle Apex Strut.

The Angle Apex Strut can be rotated

“Left” or “Right”.

Std Apex Tie can either fit through

the top or bottom holes. (Default = Top)

Ensure “Select objects in components” is

selected.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the two purlins in any order.

Select either a bolt, hole or point along the
purlin.
Metsec Cold Rolled Sleeve (102)
The Metsec Cold Rolled Sleeved connection is used to connect
one or two purlins/rails to a rafter/stanchion. It can be
used for sleeved joints; butt joints; in the middle of
double span purlins/rails; and at gable ends.

Geometric Limitations

Selected Purlins must be the same distance

from the Rafter / Column.

Selected Purlins must be the same section depth.

Settings

Default - When picking two secondary members

, a sleeve will automatically be applied.

Default Cleat type is welded V type.

Cleats can be bolted or welded.

Cleats are Galvanised if bolted, Black if welded

as Default.

Stays are turned off as default.

Heavy End Sleeve will be applied if two

sections of same depth but different
gauges are selected.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Pick the Rafter or Column where the connection

will be applied.

Select 1 or 2 purlins / rails depending on the

situation. Then click the middle mouse button.
Metsec Cold Rolled Cleat (101)
The Cold Rolled Cleats joint uses manufacturers Trimmer
Cleats or Mezzanine Floor Cleat to provide connections between
various combinations of compatible ‘I’, ‘Z’ and ‘C’ sections.

Geometric Limitations

Selection of Member for Cold Rolled Cleat joint

Primary member can be I Section, C Section /

Channel, Compound C Section / Channel or Z Purlin.

Secondary members can be C Section, Compound

C Section or Z Purlin.

Secondary members must be perpendicular to the

primary member and have the same orientation.

Requirements if two secondary members are to be connected

Both secondary members must be of the same type and section depth.
Secondary must go to the web and their centre-lines must align.

Settings

Choose between standard Window

Trimmer or Mezzanine Floor Cleat.

For MIC type Mezzanine Floor Cleat

select the cleat thickness.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

The primary member (short leg of cleat will

be fixed to)

Select 1 or 2 secondary members depending

on the situation. Then click the middle
mouse button.
Metsec Shearplate to Hip (8)
The Shear plate joint is used to connect two
Purlins to a Hipped / Valley Rafter.

Geometric Limitations

Purlin must intersect at the centre

of the Rafter.

Settings

Cleat can either be a Plate, Angle

or Tee.

Cleat is welded for Plate or

Angle, for Tee, bolted is the default.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the Hip / Valley beam that the joint

will attach to.

Select two secondary members. Then click

the middle mouse button.
Metsec Standard Anti Sag (23)

The Metsec Anti-Sag macro can be used to define

Round Loks / Anti-Sag bars and Eaves Braces between
selected Purlins to produce a standard Anti Sag System.

Geometric Limitations

Only one Eaves Beam may be selected for inclusion in the bay.
All Purlins in the bay must have the same section depth.
All Purlin lengths must be parallel.
All Purlins must have the same offset from the Rafter.

Settings

Default will automatically put in the

advised Metsec strut type
based on section and bay size

Leave blank for Metsec default number

of struts based on bay width.

If selecting an Eaves Beam, option to

use a Web Stiffener cleat

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Pick the rafters (two max) to get the bay

size

Pick the Purlins which you wish to

connect. Then middle mouse button.
Metsec Side Rail Supports (28)
The Metsec Standard Side Rail support macro can be used
to define an arrangement of Side Rail supports between the
rails of a bay. The macro can also provide the necessary
connections between the top Rail and an Eaves beam.

Geometric Limitations

Only one Eaves Beam may be selected for inclusion in the bay
All Rails in the bay must have the same section depth
All Rail lengths must be parallel
Eaves Beam must be parallel to Rails and above the last Rail
The outside of the Rails / Eaves beams must align.

Settings

Leave blank for Metsec default number

of struts based on bay width.

If an Eaves Beam is selected there is an

option of using a web stiffener.

Option of selecting bolt types, so that CSK

bolts can be used at a specific point.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Pick the columns (2 max) to get the

bay size

Pick the side rails which you wish to

connect. Then middle mouse button.
Metsec Standard Horizontal Cladding Support (31)
The Metsec Standard Horizontal Cladding Support macro can be used
to define an arrangement of PJR’s and HCS’s between the
Rails of a bay. The macro can also provide the necessary
connections between the Top Rail and an Eaves beam

Geometric Limitations

Only one Eaves Beam may be selected for inclusion in the bay.
All Rails in the bay must have the same section depth.
All Rail lengths must be parallel.
Eaves Beam must be parallel to Rails and above the last Rail.
The outside of the Rails / Eaves beams must align.

Settings

Leave blank for Metsec default number

of struts based on bay width.

Default strut type is PJR, but HCS can be

used or a mixture of both.

Tie Wire can be used at multiple locations;

1 = between 1st & 2nd rails.
2 = between 2nd & 3rd rails.
1 (space) 2 = between 1st, 2nd & 3rd rails.

Option of selecting bolt types, so that CSK

bolts can be used at a specific point.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Pick two columns to get the bay size

Pick the side rails which you wish to

connect. Then middle mouse button.
Metsec Horizontal Cladding Support – Column (33)
The Metsec Horizontal Cladding Support – Column macro can be used
to define an arrangement of PJR’s and HCS’s between the
Rails of a bay at column position. The macro can also provide the necessary
connections between the Top Rail and an Eaves beam

Geometric Limitations

Only one Eaves Beam may be selected for inclusion in the bay.
All Rails in the bay must have the same section depth.
All Rail lengths must be parallel.
Eaves Beam must be parallel to Rails and above the last Rail.
The outside of the Rails / Eaves beams must align.

Settings

Default strut type is PJR,

but HCS can be used.

Control of cleat type is possible.

Defaults are as per Metsec’s Purlin
and Rail manual.

Macro auto cuts back the strut, but

it can be taillored to your own specification.

Ensure “Select parts” is selected.

Select the Column you wish to fix against.

Select multiple secondary members. Then

click the middle mouse button.
Metsec File Transfer (26)

Number the Model

Select “Objects in Components”

Select the items you wish to transfer.

Macro will only transfer Metsec items.

Select the File Transfer Macro (26)

from the component catalog.

Enter the file name, leaving blank will

automatically use the model name.

Producing the CAM file.

Any problems creating the file will be written to a log file (Metsec Log.dat), which will be in the current Tekla Structures model
directory.

The macro will use a tolerance of 1mm when checking a part against the Metsec standard.
Both the transfer file and the report file, Metsec Report.dat will also be written to that directory. These files will overwrite
existing files with the same name without any prompt or warning to the user.
ASCII File Name, This is used to specify the file that is created for the file transfer. If the field is left completely blank, the
default is based on the name of the current Tekla Structures model with a “.cam” extension. This file will overwrite an existing
file with the same name without any prompt or warning to the user.
If you want to split the order into phases, filter the model by phase and include some reference to the phase in the file name.
Procedure outlined below :-

1. This macro automatically excludes non-Metsec parts from the order, but check the currently active view and select
filters, to ensure that they are not excluding any parts that are required. Also ensure that “object in components” is
selected if necessary.
2. Select that area / whole model that you wish to order.
3. Select the file transfer icon from the Metsec component catalog.
4. Enter the required file name into the dialog box.
5. Press the Create Button.
6. If Tekla Structures warns of errors and/or warnings in creating the file, see Metsec Log.dat in the model directory.
7. If the transfer file is successfully created, but the log file contains warnings that drawings are required for some parts,
then a simple list of those drawings will be in the file “RequiredDrawings.dat”. Create the relevant Tekla Structures
drawing or check that they are up-to-date and ensure that they contain sufficient information for fabrication, eg sizes
 of non-standard end cleats and dimensions to intersection of strut with end cleats relative to holes. Then “plot” them
to DXF files.

The required files that need to be sent to Metsec are as follows :-

ASCII file e.g. <model name>.cam

Metsec Report.dat
RequiredDrawings.dat
all the required dxf files