14 March 2017
In the realm of 3D, building information modelling (BIM) is the link that connects all the key players and stages of a building project’s lifecycle. Wavin understands the intricacies involved in such a collaboration of this magnitude. So we created a custom Revit content package that supports the industry by providing MEP BIM modellers with the ability to intuitively create a full and detailed plumbing system which is a 100% accurate installation model.
BIM is transforming the construction industry, as the number of projects being 3D modelled has increased exponentially and the need to save substantial costs by optimising designs at an early stage has become more of a priority. As industry innovators, Wavin has not only embraced BIM but has also developed custom BIM Revit content packages. With built-in intelligent assistance, these packages effectively eliminate any uncertainty in pipe design and makes specifying Wavin’s extensive range of above ground drainage products accurate, cost effective and efficient. And we did this because our priority is to support and assist MEP professionals, contractors and installers in their projects – from beginning to end.
The process of using BIM models collaboratively, from concept to installation and construction, is very lengthy. It begins with the architect preparing a schematic model and renderings, and then presenting them to the building owner (the client). Based on feedback from the client, tweaks will be made and then the model will be ready to move to the design phase of the project.
During the design phase, the scheduling and estimating teams begin to get involved. The person responsible for scheduling must make sure that the building can be built in the time allocated for the project. Concurrently, the person in charge of estimating needs to continuously track the cost of the project. For this to happen seamlessly and without any mishaps, the BIM models need to be set up correctly from the get-go. At this stage, collaboration is key. Each team must know what the other is doing – the architects, engineers, project managers, estimator, scheduler, and construction manager. And BIM is the best way to manage this process.
Wavin has taken all of this into account. With Wavin’s Revit content packages, MEPs or Revit piping modellers will be able to produce precise designs easily – and without the use of product catalogues or any product knowledge. Thanks to the software's intelligent assistance, an accurate installation model can be made very quickly and easily so any potential problems like clashes (i.e. check whether the pipes will clash with the structure or other pipe systems), will be precisely detected. These can be corrected more easily and efficiently in the design phase before they become real problems – saving time and significantly minimizing the chance of failure. The content package will only allow designs to be created which can be delivered from the available product portfolio, providing confidence that what is designed is available and can be installed.
Once the design is complete, construction is ready to commence. BIM has created a tight connection between design and construction that never existed before. The ease with which project estimation and scheduling can be updated (as the project progresses) is simply unprecedented. We no longer need to ask the architects, engineers, operations and construction managers to collaborate efficiently. Instead, we look to how we can use BIM to make the whole process faster and more efficient.
So now there are efficiencies not only in the design phase, but also in the installation phase. When a design is complete, you immediately have a correct and complete material order. Previously, the planner had to extract information from the drawings and create the order himself, thus generating additional work and increasing the chance for human error. Now, however, everything is already automatically in the system.
Contractors and installers will enjoy the ease of use of Wavin’s predefined pipe and fitting schedules, which makes extracting the full and exact bill of materials a matter of a few mouse clicks. Furthermore, they benefit from having correct installation drawings, which in turn maximizes the reduction of failure (and the costs associated with it) during the installation process. Additionally, knowing the exact pipe length will make prefabrication of pipe parts possible, which further reduces the installation costs. And finally, an exact installation model will make it possible to order parts in phases without ordering the wrong products, too many or insufficient products.
If you want to learn more about Wavin’s BIM Revit packages, go here.
We launched our BIM Revit content packages in May 2016 in multiple countries. The Wavin BIM Revit files are country-specific. If you have any questions or if your country is not mentioned, please connect to your local Wavin company or contact person.