SkyCiv’s Steel Connection Design Software runs the design checks for a steel connection from geometry through to a signed-off calculation report. It is a standalone, cloud-based module: nothing to install, no licence keys, and it runs in the browser.
Our features include:
- Over 80+ pre-configured connection templates, catalogued and searchable
- Section databases for Wide Flange, HSS, WT, L and 2L shapes, to AISC and Australian standards, with pre-loaded steel grades and custom Fy and Fu inputs
- Interactive 3D modelling with real-time dimensioning, and auto-render of the connection as you design
- Ability to switch between bolted and welded connections within one connection type, and to swap bolts, welds or plates without losing your member or load data
- Detailing checks before the solve: bolt edge distances, spacing, tool clearances, plate dimensions, plus clash detection between plates, stiffeners, bolts and welds
- Summary table of design check values, utilization ratios and pass/fail indicators
- Detailed, step-by-step calculation report with clause-level references and embedded graphics (PDF or HTML download)
- 2D detail drawing sheets in CloudCAD, editable in-app
- IFC export of the 3D connection geometry for BIM coordination in Revit, Tekla or Navisworks
Support for:
- AISC 360-16 in ASD and LRFD, in Imperial or Metric units
- AS 4100:2020, in Metric units
- W to W connections (column to beam, and beam to beam)
- HSS to W connections (column to beam)
- Channel to channel connections
- Shear connections and moment connections
- Shear plus axial connections
- Column splices and beam splices
- Bracing connections: vertical, chevron, knee and horizontal
- Bolted connections and welded connections
- Coping considerations on beam webs
AS 4100:2020 coverage is shear connections, W to W only. The HSS, channel, bracing and splice categories are AISC 360-16. For the full breakdown by code and category, see the list of supported connection types.
Quick Start
There are a few ways into the software, depending on how you prefer to start. If you are not sure which connection you need, choosing a connection walks through it, and the guide to connection design covers the workflow end to end.
Steel Connection Design Free Tool
The free tool gives you the software without an account. If you prefer to learn by doing, open it alongside this documentation: pick a connection, enter your sections and loads, and run the design checks as you read. It runs in the browser, with nothing to install.
Sign-up to Free Account
A free account lets you save and reload your connection files, which the free tool does not. Signing up also gives you access to the rest of SkyCiv’s structural software, including Structural 3D.
Connection Design Standalone
Want the connection design module on its own, without the rest of the suite? Click below for standalone pricing.
Unlimited Access
Ready to jump in? SkyCiv Professional covers the full suite, with flexible plans and no lock-in contracts. Visit the pricing guide and pick the plan that fits how you work.
Design a connection now
The fastest way to see what the module does is to build something in it. Pick a configuration, enter your sections and loads, and every design check and code reference is shown in full.
