To open the Profile Catalog, navigate to the . The interface is divided into three functional zones:
When you export an entire profile catalog, the software creates three separate files: profiles.clb , profiles.lis , and rules.lis . The .lis file contains the core profile definitions, the .lis file holds the organizational rules (or group definitions), and the .clb file contains definitions for any parametric profiles used. This is a critical step for backing up customizations before a software upgrade.
Tekla Stores profile data in two main places: tekla structures profile catalog
Importing a model from an external software (like Revit or Autodesk Advance Steel) without proper mapping files forces Tekla to generate automated, duplicate names.
In Tekla Structures, the Profile Catalog is the foundational database that defines the cross-sectional shapes and geometric properties of all structural elements used in a Building Information Modeling (BIM) project. Whether you are modeling a standard hot-rolled steel I-beam, a precast concrete hollow-core slab, or a custom cold-formed light-gauge track, Tekla relies entirely on this catalog to accurately render 3D geometry, calculate material weights, and export data for fabrication. To open the Profile Catalog, navigate to the
Poor catalog management leads to naming conflicts, incorrect material orders, and drawing errors. Implement these industry best practices to maintain database integrity:
This error occurs when opening a model or importing an IFC/CIS2 file containing a profile name string that does not exist in your local profdb.bin or profitab.inp files. This is a critical step for backing up
For projects with an existing, heavily customized catalog, Tekla provides a "Convert Rules to Groups" tool to facilitate migration. This utility reads the legacy rules.lis and profiles.lis files and generates a new ProfileCatalog.Groups.xml file, which defines the group hierarchy for the new catalog. This file can then be placed in the appropriate profil\profiles folder for the software to load. This tool ensures a smooth transition, preserving custom organizational logic while moving to a more modern system.
Do you need help using the Sketch Editor, or are you looking to export your catalog to another environment?
Clean the DWG/DXF file in your CAD software, ensuring the shape is a single, closed polyline with no overlapping lines or gaps. Save it with the origin point (0,0) at the intended center of gravity. In Tekla, open the Profile Catalog and click .
