Automate RC Beam Detailing in AutoCAD with KBeamDetailing (Free Tool)
KBeamDetailing is a powerful VBA automation tool designed to streamline the tedious process of Reinforced Concrete (RC) beam detailing in AutoCAD.
Stop drawing individual polylines and manually counting bars. This tool automates the drafting of rebar shapes, handles labeling, and instantly generates accurate Bar Bending Schedules (BBS).
Key Features
Rapid Rebar Drafting: Quickly insert standard rebar shapes into your beam elevations and sections.
Smart Labeling: Automatically tag bars with their diameter, spacing, and mark numbers.
One-Click BBS: Generate a complete Bar Bending Schedule table directly inside AutoCAD based on the bars you drew.
Excel Export: Need to order materials? Export your schedule to Microsoft Excel with a single command.
Installation Guide
Download and unzip the
KBeamDetailingfolder.Open AutoCAD.
Type
APPLOADin the command line and press Enter.Navigate to the unzipped folder and select the following two files:
RebarVBA.dvbRebarLISP.lsp
Click Load.
Pro Tip: Add these files to the “Startup Suite” in the APPLOAD window if you want them to load automatically every time you open AutoCAD.
Command List
Once loaded, you can use these simple keyboard shortcuts to run the tool:
| Command | Function |
| BD | Opens the Main User Interface (Start here to define beam geometry). |
| BL | Bar Label: Adds callouts/tags to specific rebars. |
| BS | Beam Section: Quickly inserts cross-section reinforcement. |
| BSC | Generate Schedule: Creates the Bar Bending Schedule (BBS) table in the drawing. |
| XPT | Export: Exports the current BBS data to an Excel spreadsheet. |
See it in Action
I have prepared a full workflow tutorial showing how to detail a continuous beam from start to finish using KBeamDetailing.
Watch the video tutorial HERE ON YOUTUBE
Note that if you have AutoCAD 2010 or a newer version, you will have to download and install VBA module of your AutoCAD, otherwise the above program will not work.