The development of the construction industry has changed dramatically as a result of building information modelling, or BIM, processes. Both the architecture and MEP (mechanical, engineering, and plumbing) sectors have had to adjust to new design process trends as a result of the introduction of BIM technology. Typically, the design and documentation workflows used by building engineers and architects are different. These processes have been modified and integrated using BIM modelling MEP BIM Detailer Miami.

The traditional methods of converting a 2D MEP design into a coordinated 3D model by the contractor are becoming less and less popular. The main cause of this change is BIM modelling, which we explain.

The majority of engineering work performed in the construction industry uses information from architectural designs, such as column grids for structural design or ceiling plans for MEP design. Following that, structural load, heating load, and cooling load analysis are performed by building engineers using architectural data, such as building geometry. In order to size components like structural units, heating systems, and cooling systems, the conclusions from this analysis are used. The quantity and characteristics of structural joints, as well as the MEP distribution systems, are calculated to determine loads and size connections, structural framing components, ductwork, and piping.

In order to include MEP components, architects may occasionally have to give up designed spaces. The design layout would then need to be changed while still maintaining the engineering systems of the building. Due to the use of coordinated 3D models, MEP can be incorporated into the construction plans at an early stage. As a result, a 3D model-based workflow emerged as an efficient option. Models made with CAD software have several advantages in the field of MEP design, including the following:

Studies show that 3D CAD tools can cut the development cycle in half or more.
Non-conformance issues are reduced by 30–40% when using a 3D model.
3D-based design generates fewer errors.
Therefore, using 3D CAD models reduces errors, saves money, and saves time.
A sizable number of stakeholders who are in charge of the effective execution of various building engineering stages are typically involved in MEP design. These phases typically consist of planning, designing, spatial coordination, fabrication, installation, and maintenance. On building services design teams, design engineers—also known as consultant engineers or building designers—and MEP contractors frequently collaborate. A fabricator, who builds ducts, pipes, electric ladders, and sprinklers using frame modules, may on occasion take part in the design stage as well. Traditionally, the services for lighting, heating, cooling, drainage, waste, and fire protection were supervised in conjunction by the design engineer and the architect. In this instance, the design engineer stays away from the intricate spatial design of the lighting, cooling, heating, etc. The MEP contractor or trade contractor would fulfil the requirements for installing the spatial design. The MEP contractor must then convert the consultant design into a building services solution that is prepared for installation.

This workflow encountered a few issues, including:

Data for the MEP and architectural designs needed to be shared.
The MEP design was created by one engineer or team, and the details were provided by another.
Plans and schematics may include information that is contradictory or incoherent.
Changes may be made after the design has been finalised.
BIM modelling, which enabled the conversion of designs into 3D models, the increasing centralization of design data, and the quicker notification of changes to stakeholders, was introduced to address these problems. With the aid of BIM modelling, five different MEP design workflow options were discovered. What they are are these:

1. 2D design with 3D BIM coordination

In order to identify and resolve clashes before the start of site work, the contractor will create a coordinated Revit BIM model using the 2D design outputs, such as 2D plan layouts, 2D sections, and MEP schematics.

2. Coordinating 2D MEP design and 3D BIM

A 2D design layout is created by the MEP designer; this layout describes the design intent rather than the installation requirements. These layouts are then delivered to the MEP trade contractor for precise 3D coordination. In order to facilitate coordination, the contractor is given architectural and structural models.

3. 3D BIM design and coordination by MEP designers

Design engineers create spatially coordinated Revit BIM models using the actual specified components for the projects. Structure, architecture, and MEP services have all been coordinated. Installation of the finished model is almost complete. Usually, during a round of value engineering or preferred installation or fabrication requirements, the MEP contractor will still make any necessary final adjustments.

4. Design and coordination of 3D BIM by MEP contractors

Design and coordination are the responsibilities of the MEP contractors. This strategy, formerly referred to as a “design and build” workflow, is becoming more well-liked. According to the client’s requests, the contractor creates the design and model. A coordinated drawing is created from the model for fabrication or installation. This approach is quick and cost-effective because contractor resources are less expensive than design engineers. Because he is the one making the final decisions regarding fabrication and procurement, this also consolidates all of the control in one team and somewhat streamlines the procedure.

5. Coordinating 3D construction with general contractors

2D structural, MEP, and architectural designers are employed by a general contractor. Usually, the team will also include detail teams that oversee coordination on an MEP trade contractor level. A 3D BIM model is created so the contractor can evaluate the model’s robustness and adherence to the design. The model is then checked for contradictions.

There are five different MEP workflows, but only one traditional architectural design workflow with three essential phases. the following

Schematic creation

The space’s form and function are imagined by the architect, who then turns the sketches into a 3D model.

Conceptualization 2.

CAD specialists add dimensions, details, and supporting information to the 3D models to improve them. There are produced drawings for plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and life safety systems. When standard parts libraries and tagged component data are used early in this phase, productivity tools that enhance construction or shop drawings are made possible.