Different Stages of MEP BIM Coordination

Different Stages of MEP

MEP BIM Co-ordination is an extremely important step during the construction stage of any project. This process helps in ascertaining the accuracy of the designing and modeling part for ensuring a seamless process of construction. It is important to validate the design during the BIM coordination stage to ensure that the elements between Architectural, Structural and MEP discipline do not clash with each other. It is very essential during the pre-construction phase to make certain that the architectural design and structural framework of the building, does not interfere or clash with its Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing (MEP) or Fire Protection systems. Let us take an overview of the overall MEP coordination process.

Different Stages of MEP

Step 1: Study of Design Drawings and Architectural/Structural Plans

MEP consultants and contractors essentially provide single-line drawings to the companies providing BIM services, to work on BIM coordination Modelling. These drawings along with the architectural and structural plans are reviewed thoroughly and modeled in 3D. RFI’s are raised in case of any queries or incomplete information. The 3D BIM Model is built based on these drawings.  Furthermore, the MEP specifications are investigated and based on the outcome of the entire plan for the MEP BIM coordination process is defined.

Step 2: 3D Model Creation

With the help of the 2D CAD Drawings received from the consultant, MEP BIM modeling is accomplished. It is important that the BIM company working on the project has its full focus on building an accurate 3D model and thoroughly follow the specification. An accurately built virtual model is extremely important for validating the design perfectly. This model reflects all the Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing services within the architectural and structural models of the building. This MEP 3D model forms the basis for BIM Coordination and further drawings that are required for construction.

Step 3: 3D BIM Coordination and Interference check

Finally post the modeling of the HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, and Fire protection modeling they are aligned with the Architectural and Structural Models to perform 3D BIM Coordination. This linked model is opened in Navisworks and a clash report is extracted. Based on the extracted clash reports, the BIM Coordination Experts differentiate the clashes based on the complexity and effect it may have on final construction. A collaborative meeting is then held with the Architects, Structural Design Engineers, MEP Consultants, Contractor, and the BIM company to finalize solutions to resolve these clashes. Based on the decision taken during the coordination meeting, further changes are made to the model. Interference checks also help in validating the designs to a great extent. Design inconsistencies that are identified during the process can be rectified with alternative corrective actions. BIM Coordination Services is one of the most sought-after services in the end to end BIM solution tangent.

Step 4: Developing Coordinated Drawings and Sections

Once the BIM coordination process is completed, we can extract MEP Installation Drawings from the model. These drawings can be verified for the horizontal and vertical coordination cum clearance. These sets present the layout of the individual services, the details, the dimensions and other call outs to provide clarity to the onsite contractor. These coordinated drawings act as a ready reference for individual service-by-service drawings. Also, sections, elevations, and isometric views are taken from the 3D Model to detail the layouts.

Step 5: Creating Detailed Service Drawings

The detailed service drawings are required for site installation purposes.  These drawings constitute every single service-by-service drawings with details related to their sizes, heights, and distances from grid-lines imparting better clarity.

Step 6: Creating Fabrication Drawings, Spool, and Hanger Drawings

In case the client is in the requirement of fabrication drawings, the model should be created in the LOD 400 detailing. Fabrication drawings are generated from individual services. Latest Revit versions support fabrication and have eliminated the use of old conventional 2D detailing a method for fabrication. These drawings constitute the fabrication details for ductwork that can be directly identified by the CNC machines for production objective. Furthermore, spool drawings can be generated by further detailing the elements of the model.  Also, hangars can be mapped out and detailed.

Different Stages of MEP

MEP BIM Co-ordination when performed with accuracy and diligent helps in seamless and accurate completion of the project. Clients who have used BIM vouch for a correct and smooth sailing construction process devoid of delays, cost overruns, and abrupt design changes.