Cost Savings through Accurate Quantity Take-Offs

Cost optimization is one of the major advantages that 3D structural steel modeling has to offer. Creating detailed digital models of steel components such as beams, columns, braces and connections helps in creating an exact Bill of Materials (BOM) and quantity take-offs.

Precision drawings ensure that the least amount of waste material and excess material is created, that cutting is more efficient, and that materials are used more effectively all factors that contribute to lower fabrication costs. There is less room for error. Both contractors and fabricators have a better understanding of the project budget and are able to maximize their profitability.

Reduced Rework and Design Errors

Re-work is undoubtedly one of the primary factors behind the increase of costs in projects and the consequent prolongation of times for the completion of the works. In actual fact, in 2D workflow systems, discrepancies and misunderstandings between structural drawings, architectural drawings, and MEP drawings are rarely detected. This only occurs when it is already too late, during the execution stage.

All elements in the BIM 3D steel model are produced with the required precision of measurement, tolerance and specification to ensure that accurate detail drawings can be produced for fabrication, for bolt connections and for site erection. This helps to eliminate errors in the design which is easier to correct at an early stage in the project, and reduces the need for rework on site and re-fabrication in the workshop.

Effective Clash Detection and Coordination

Clash detection is a very important aspect in 3D structural steel modeling for interdisciplinary coordination. Using the advanced BIM applications such as Navisworks, we can clash detect all the components of a project automatically. Thus enabling us to determine at an early stage where structural steelwork is interfering with other components of the project. This can range from HVAC ducts to pipes and conduits etc.

Early clash detection is an essential step in solving design conflicts before they become construction problems on site. Any interference or design conflicts are identified and resolved during the design stages, thus allowing design changes to be made before they become a problem on site. It shortens construction time, eliminates costly changes to work on site, and improves communication between architects, structural engineers, and MEP consultants. The building construction process becomes both more efficient and interference-free.

Improved Visualization and Design Clarity

A 2D drawing can only show you a 2D view of a structure. A 3D structural steel model will give you a much more accurate and detailed 3 dimensional view of the overall structure. It will also give you a more complete understanding of all the components involved.

In a 3D CAD model, an engineer and customer can look at any face of the part to verify that the design intent has been met and to prevent any potential problems from developing. Proper visualization of the design also ensures that all parties involved in a project are reading from the same page of instructions, thus reducing the time required for discussion and expediting the pace of project completion.

Enhanced Fabrication Accuracy and Efficiency

3D structural steel modeling is used to ensure greater accuracy in the fabrication process and to provide all of the information required to fabricate the steel components specified. Data is extracted from the 3D model to ensure that the components are fabricated to a greater degree of accuracy and to provide information for use in CNC cutting, drilling and welding operations.

Steel detailing involves creating 3D computer models with minute details of all the components. Once these models are created, all the components can be fabricated to the exact requirement which helps in reducing human errors during fabrication. Components fabricated to the exact detail also helps in saving a huge amount of time during construction. The components will fit into place perfectly, hence reducing any bottlenecks in construction.

Faster Project Delivery and Scheduling

One of the great benefits of 3D structural steel modeling is time efficiency. Once the structural steel has been modelled and the coordinated 3D model, and associated documentation are on site, the erection sequence and fabrication methods can be quickly arranged.

Further details to be included in the Erection Drawings and sequencing are required to assist with the efficiency of construction works on site, reduce plant and equipment down time and consequently increase production. A more efficient construction phase will enable the contractor to complete their work in a shorter period and ultimately to deliver the required milestones and points to the satisfaction of the Client.

Improved Safety and Risk Mitigation

We always prioritize safety when working with heavy steel on our construction projects. We can detail a sequence of construction and then analyze and mitigate potential hazards on site.

This section is useful to the project manager to verify in advance the best possible method for installation, and the amount of uncertainties that have to be dealt with. In addition, a thorough analysis of the model may assist the project manager in his planning of safer procedures. Also, correct and coordinated drawings enable the right job to be done in the right place at the right time, thereby preventing accidents and promoting site safety.

Better As-Built Documentation and Lifecycle Management

3D structural steel models are commonly associated with the design and construction phases of a project, but they can also play a valuable role in the documentation and maintenance phases of a facility’s lifecycle. A 3D structural steel model can be updated to reflect the current condition of a structure after construction is complete.

An as-built model is a model of a building that accurately shows the state of the building at a particular time. This information is invaluable to on-going maintenance and renovation work as well as future developments. This information is a huge asset to building owners and facility managers for all stages of a building’s life cycle.

Seamless Collaboration Using BIM Workflows

Nowadays most building projects involve a number of parties working on site and project information at the same time. Thanks to the 3D structural steel modeling functionality integrated with BIM, real time collaboration and data exchange becomes possible.

By making models and design updates available in the cloud to all stakeholders including design teams, contractors and builders, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page and prevent costly mistakes due to miscommunication. With Cloud Model, you get instant access to the latest version of your design model, making it easier to collaborate and work faster.

Conclusion

3D structural steel modeling is an essential part of the modern methods of construction. It not only helps in reducing the costs but also in reducing the rework, clashing and giving a much better visualization of the project. 2D structural steel modeling is an old school method and has a lot of limitations.

Comparing with the traditional design way, 3D steel modeling will help to achieve the efficient production, to optimize the construction schedule, and to enhance the communication between different departments. Now, a large number of construction enterprises begin to accept BIM technology, so the 3D structural steel modeling will become an important component in the development of smart construction, cost saving and sustainable construction.