Various software tools are used for creating shop drawings, as they offer the functionality needed for precise, detailed, and accurate drawings for fabrication and construction. These software programs are tailored to meet the demands of structural, architectural, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) shop drawings. Here’s a list of the most commonly used software for creating shop drawings:

1. AutoCAD

Description: AutoCAD is one of the most popular and widely used software for creating 2D and 3D shop drawings. It provides comprehensive drawing tools, precise dimensioning, and extensive libraries for various structural and architectural elements. Best for: 2D and 3D drafting, creating accurate plans, sections, details, and elevations.

Features:

Precision drawing tools

Layer management for better organization

3D modeling capabilities

Easy integration with other software tools (like Revit and BIM systems)

2. Revit

Description: Revit is a Building Information Modeling (BIM) software that is widely used in architecture, engineering, and construction industries for creating 3D models, but it also supports generating detailed shop drawings from those models. 

Best for: BIM-based design, MEP, structural, and architectural shop drawings.

Features:

Automated updates across drawings when the model changes 3D modeling for structural and MEP elements Collaboration tools for project teams Integrated with other BIM tools for a comprehensive design process

3. Tekla Structures

Description: Tekla Structures is a powerful software that focuses on structural detailing and is widely used for generating shop drawings of steel, concrete, and precast structures. It is particularly effective in the fabrication process.

Best for: Steel structures, precast concrete, and complex 3D modeling.

Features:

3D modeling of steel and concrete structures

Automated generation of detailed shop drawings and reports

Integration with CNC machinery for automated fabrication

Clash detection to ensure compatibility between structural and MEP elements

4. SolidWorks

Description: Primarily used in product design and mechanical engineering, SolidWorks is also used for creating detailed 3D models and shop drawings for structural elements that require high precision and technical detailing.

Best for: Mechanical, metal, and detailed fabrication work.

Features:

3D modeling and simulation tools

Part and assembly modeling for precise fabrication

Automatic creation of detailed drawings from 3D models

Integration with other CAD tools and CAM systems

5. Bentley ProStructures

Description: Bentley ProStructures is a BIM software focused on structural steel and concrete detailing. It’s designed to produce highly accurate shop drawings and fabrication information for structural components.

Best for: Steel and concrete structural detailing, bridge construction, and civil infrastructure projects.

Features:

3D modeling of structural elements

Automatic generation of shop drawings and material reports

Support for both steel and concrete designs

Integration with Bentley’s BIM platform for project collaboration

6. Navisworks

Description: Navisworks is commonly used for project review, coordination, and clash detection. It allows for collaborative design and is often used to check for conflicts between the architectural, structural, and MEP systems before generating shop drawings.

Best for: Project coordination and clash detection before generating detailed shop drawings.

Features:

Model aggregation from various sources (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.)

Clash detection and issue resolution tools

4D simulation and project scheduling

Visualization tools for design review

7. ProNest

Description: ProNest is a specialized software used for nesting, cutting, and fabrication processes. It helps in creating detailed drawings for the fabrication of parts, especially for industries that require CNC cutting or laser cutting.

Best for: Metal fabrication, especially for laser, plasma, and waterjet cutting.

Features:

Automated nesting for efficient material use

Detailed part drawings and CNC programming

Integration with CNC machines for direct fabrication

Material optimization and cost calculation

8. Advance Steel

Description: Advance Steel is a steel detailing software used for generating shop drawings of steel structures, such as frames, trusses, and beams. It integrates with AutoCAD for detailed, accurate drawings.

Best for: Steel structure detailing, fabrication, and shop drawings.

Features:

Automatic generation of fabrication drawings and BOM (Bill of Materials)

3D modeling for steel structures

Clash detection and integration with structural analysis tools

Drawing automation for repetitive tasks

9. Chief Architect

Description: Chief Architect is used mainly for residential and light commercial construction. It is a popular software for generating 2D and 3D drawings of building structures, particularly for architectural elements.

Best for: Residential architecture and construction with a focus on interiors and building systems.

Features:

3D visualization of building designs

Automatic generation of material lists and detailed drawings

Building code compliance checking

Intuitive interface for designers and contractors

10. CNC Software (e.g., Radan)

Description: CNC (Computer Numerical Control) software like Radan is specialized for sheet metal fabrication. It integrates with shop drawing systems to automate the cutting and shaping of metal components based on the
shop drawings.

Best for: Sheet metal and fabrication shops, particularly for CNC machinery.

Features:

CNC code generation from drawings

Sheet metal nesting and optimization

Integration with CNC cutting, punching, and laser machines

Design-to-manufacturing integration

Conclusion

The choice of software for shop drawings largely depends on the specific needs of the project, including the type of materials used, the complexity of the design, and the level of collaboration required. Popular software like AutoCAD and Revit are essential for general drafting, while more specialized tools like Tekla Structures and Advance Steel are better suited for complex structural detailing. Additionally, CNC software is often used for fabrication-focused projects, helping automate the manufacturing process based on shop drawings. By using the right software for your shop drawings, you can ensure that your project runs smoothly, meets all specifications, and is built to the highest standards.