MEP professionals have upgraded their construction process over time with various technologies and construction models. One of the latest trends in MEP constrictions that we can see now is the use of BIM coordination. Business Information Modeling or BIM is a 3D model-based intelligent process that assists the MEP professionals in fabricating the building systems. It makes designing and detailing the construction plans efficient. MEP professionals have been able to speed their construction and documentation significantly with the help of BIM coordination. Let us take a detailed look at how MEP BIM Coordination helps in the construction process!
Challenges of using traditional coordination systems
The BIM coordination was introduced to tackle some of the common challenges that the MEP contractors face while constructing with the traditional coordination process. Some of these issues are:
- Lack of visualization of designs
- Inefficiency in reviewing the pre-construction designs
- A decentralized system of construction responsibility
- Problems of congested spaces
- Time consuming and expensive process to accommodate unexpected changes
Benefits of using a BIM Coordination
3D models to enhance Visualization
BIM coordination processes have a 3D model of the pre-construction design. This model helps the MEP professionals in understanding how the actual outcome after the construction will look like. It also highlights any clashes in the designs that might need a rework. It also gives an estimation of the space available. MEP contractors can plan how to accommodate tier services using these 3D models. It results in optimum utilization of resources. It also reduces the cost and time of construction as there are lesser chances of rework. Since the contractors can visualize the designs beforehand, they can make the necessary changes in the pre-construction stage and then start the construction process.
Automatic Clash Detection features
There are several elements in the construction process that often complicates the project. Ensuring proper coordination between electrical, plumbing, ductworks, and mechanical areas often requires huge manpower and investments. The BIM process ensures smooth coordination between all such MEP elements in a cost-effective way It identifies the clashes in the pre-construction stage itself and helps in solving the pertaining issues automatically. This helps in making the construction smarter and faster along with huge savings in the man-hours.
Integration of all models and teams
Traditional coordination systems include a separate model and plan for every design that is required in the process. This makes a huge pile for the stakeholder’s ad teams to go through during the initial meetings. The process delays opinions and changes from the stakeholders which can result in a delayed or complicated construction process. The BIM process tackles this issue by integrating all models and teams on one page. The 3D modeling system highlights all plans and designs on a single platform. This becomes easy to understand and give opinions on in the initial meeting. This saves time and makes the work transparent and clear to everyone.
Smooth renovation of existing projects
Accommodating changes in the existing buildings using the traditional system is an expensive process. The BIM process can also ensure a smooth renovation of the existing building at a lesser cost. MEP professionals can create a BIM model of any existing building. This will give them the details of all spaces, floorwork, and ductwork along with the measurements. Installing new MEP elements thus gets easier as the contractors know their available areas of operations. This makes renovation hassle-free and cost-effective.
Provides accuracy of planning on-site activities
Understanding the exact placement of MEP services using traditional coordination systems was impossible. The lack of visualization and ineffective coordination in such systems made it harder to plan the site activity accurately. The BIM coordination process is a boon for MEP contractors for such accurate site planning. It not only helps in placing all material components but also coordinates the scheduling and delivery of materials on site. It ensures transparent communication between different stakeholders and coordinates their workforces. This prevents the chances of any clashes during the construction process, ensuring smooth and accurate on-site activity.
Eliminates chances of rework
The pre-construction stage is crucial for MEP contractors to understand the construction process and direct their services. The BIM coordination process undertakes the responsibility to make this pre-construction stage detailed and accurate. It provides the exact dimensions of MEP components, the number of materials required, and proper fabrication. This reduces and eventually eliminates the chances of rework on the site.
Enhances facility management
The BIM model works like a wonder for all existing facilities as well, alongside the new projects. MEP contractors can also use this model for the maintenance of plumbing lines, air conditioners, and electric wires. The model creates a detailed outline of passages to the facilities. This helps the vendors in accessing it smoothly. It can also upgrade the existing technology used in such facilities. This can help in energy conservation, savings, and efficient operation of the equipment.
Technological advancements have made the traditional construction process reliable and efficient. MEP professionals have found numerous solutions to their construction issues using the BIM model. We hope this article gave you detailed insights into the BIM coordination process. If you are looking to invest in a BIM process, contact and exert today!
