Structural tagging in Revit: beam tags, column tags, and framing tags

A structural plan is a grid of members, each one labeled with its section. Beams run between columns, secondary framing runs between beams, and slabs, openings, and braces sit on top. The tags tell the fabricator and the contractor what to order and where it goes.

What structural tags carry

• Beams and structural framing. The section size, a mark, and in some offices the top-of-steel elevation.
• Columns. The section size and a mark for the column schedule.
• Rebar. The bar mark, size, and spacing.

Where structural tags belong

A beam tag belongs on the beam it describes, near its middle, readable along its direction. When beams are short, or sit close together, the tags need a leader. The same section repeated along a row of beams does not need a new tag on every one. The reader needs it once, and again wherever the section changes. Column tags sit beside the column, in a consistent position across the plan.

How RayCAD approaches it

RayCAD tags MEPF drawings inside Revit. It works from a method that holds for any element.

• It reads the real size of your tag before placing it, and keeps it clear of the members and of other tags. See intelligent placement.
• It tags where information changes. See information-based tagging.
• It uses your tag families and your standard. See using your own tag families and firm standards.
• It tells you what it could not place. Review Tags lists those tags with the reason, and takes you to them.

RayCAD tags HVAC and piping today, and structural tagging is coming soon. To push it up our list, email founder@raycad.in. Structural engineers and detailers can see what's planned.