Let’s model a simple reinforced concrete beam using Eptar in ArchiCAD 26. This demonstrates the automation power.
While this article focuses on ArchiCAD 26, Graphisoft has announced that Eptar will continue to be a strategic partner. Expect tighter integration with BIMcloud Saas and possibly AI-based optimization of rebar layouts to minimize cutting waste.
However, for professionals working in AC26 today, the Eptar workflow is mature, stable, and proven.
A recent case study from a Brazilian engineering firm used Eptar Reinforcement in ArchiCAD 26 to detail the shear walls and coupling beams of a 30-story tower. eptar reinforcement archicad 26
Results:
The project’s BIM coordinator noted: "ArchiCAD 26’s stability with Eptar means we can keep rebar models live until the last moment — no exporting to 'dumb' formats."
Reinforced concrete detailing is a specialized requirement in BIM workflows. While Archicad possesses native "Reinforcement" tools, they can sometimes be limited regarding complex shapes, advanced scheduling, and localized detailing standards. EPTAR Reinforcement (developed by Eptar) plugs into Archicad to provide an extended set of tools for modeling rebar, cages, and mesh, specifically tailored for detailed structural documentation. Let’s model a simple reinforced concrete beam using
This document provides a broad, detailed guide for working with EPTAR reinforcement concepts and workflows in ARCHICAD 26 — covering terminology, modeling methods, reinforcement detailing, interoperability, documentation, and best practices. Assumptions: “EPTAR” refers to reinforcement engineering/standards or a proprietary reinforcement system; where EPTAR-specific tooling is unavailable in ARCHICAD, the guide maps its requirements onto ARCHICAD 26 native reinforcement and documentation features plus recommended add-ons and exchange workflows.
A dialog box appears. Here you set:
If you’re upgrading from ArchiCAD 25, here are the specific improvements you’ll notice: ArchiCAD 26 tip: EPTAR reads the beam’s actual
| Feature | AC25 + Eptar | AC26 + Eptar | |--------|--------------|----------------| | Slab reinforcement zones | Manual polyline limits | Parametric edge detection | | Rebar bending schedules | Separate Excel export | Native BIMcloud-linked schedules | | Hooks & bends preview | 2D symbolic | Real-time 3D in ArchiCAD 26’s enhanced 3D window | | Performance | Lag on >500 rebars | Smooth pan/zoom up to 2,000 rebars | | IFC export type | IfcReBar (often lost) | IfcReBar with correct shape parameters |
Additionally, Eptar for AC26 introduces "Smart Grouping" — where identical bars in a column array are stored as a single object in the BIM database, drastically reducing file size.