How building information modelling can help your next project

By Sondra Galbichka

Building Information Modelling (BIM) turns 3D models into a data powerhouse. From structure and system analysis to quantity take-offs and item scheduling, it is designed to increase efficiency and transparency throughout the life cycle of a project.

While commonly used on elaborate architectural designs, BIM is often overlooked for water and wastewater treatment applications. However, the benefits to using BIM for treatment facilities are numerous.

A picture is worth a thousand words

The first and simplest benefit to BIM is as a 3D visualization tool. Imagine being able to see your site come to life, as early as the conceptual design phase.

Programs such as Autodesk Infraworks are designed exactly for that purpose. Predominantly used for site layout, Infraworks’ Model Builder tool includes a spatial database that combines topography with aerial photos from anywhere in the world. With an easy-to-use interface and stunning graphics, Infraworks is an ideal vehicle for group discussions. Not only can Infraworks recognize and import models from a variety of software platforms, model elements such as ground surfaces, roads and pipelines can be exported to a number of applications as the basis of design.

Due to the true-to-life nature of 3D elements, BIM models are highly detailed early in the design process. When used to supplement contract documents, 3D walkthroughs have been proven to promote discussion and aid in identifying potential problems.

Workshops with the City of Regina, during a wastewater treatment plant pre- design project, generated so much constructive feedback from the owners, plant engineers and operating staff that using 3D walkthroughs to present a design is now common practice.

More than just a pretty face

While visualization is a valuable tool, 3D modelling is much more than that. Features such as intelligent tagging, powerful modelling tools and automated view generation increase productivity and improve workflows. Better yet, programs such as Autodesk Revit can easily accommodate design changes by allowing you to change fitting or valve types or sizes with the click of a button. This eliminates the need for costly rework.

Once the models are established, programs such as Autodesk Navisworks improve collaboration, with the ability to combine models from a variety of software platforms. Not only is this useful for visualizing the project as a whole, but Navisworks can also run clash detection reports, identifying conflicts between model elements before they can become a problem on site.

In addition to improved productivity and clash detection, having an accurate 3D model of your facility can speed up computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modelling workflows, as the boundaries are already defined.

A major flood event in Thunder Bay, Ontario precipitated the construction of an emergency flood relief channel at the Atlantic Avenue water pollution control plant. The 3D model, combined with CFD modelling software, was able to replicate emergency flow conditions that would have been hazardous to test in the field. As a result of the CFD model, the bypass capacity was confirmed and suggestions were made as to how flow configuration could be improved.

What you see is what you get

Retrofitting existing structures can be daunting. On large, complex, or older facilities, it is often difficult to accurately depict existing structures and systems. This may lead to costly changes during construction. 3D scanners emit laser beams to measure spatial data. Once a beam encounters a surface, it generates a digital point. A group of points, or Point Cloud, can then be imported into a variety of software programs.

Programs such as Autodesk Revit can recognize certain point formations, making it easier to convert Point Clouds into 3D geometry. Once converted, you are given an accurate representation of existing structures and systems, forming a reliable 3D model of your facility.

Time is on your side

On every project, timing is an important factor. There is often a need for careful planning, using schedules and construction sequence plans to coordinate time-sensitive activities. But what if you could see into the future and witness the construction of your project without even breaking ground? 4D simulations do just that.

A 4D simulation takes a 3D model and factors into the fourth dimension – time. Importing schedules directly from MS Project or Primavera, programs such as Autodesk Navisworks can link schedule activities to model elements, creating construction events. Once the timeline is finalized, you can watch the simulated construction of your model in real time, allowing you to identify potential issues on site. You may also assign monetary values to each construction activity, to help determine the approximate cost at every stage of construction.