Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) firms have seen the benefit of using Building Information Modeling (BIM) in their projects. BIM modeling services allow for 3D renderings of projects that incorporate all aspects of the building’s design, from the structure to the electrical and plumbing features.
MEP firms work on the first stages of a building, so it is important that they’re on board from the beginning for creating space allocation and fulfilling spatial requirements for their systems and individual equipment. Once those elements are in place, the other design teams can work on other aspects of the building.
There’s a three-part view when it comes to the MEP elements in a structure:
Mechanical
The mechanical engineer is able to create 3D renderings of the heating and cooling system including the equipment piping design and layout of the ductwork.
Electrical
The electrical engineer can create a design showing the electrical components including the electrical and power site plans, panel schedules and distribution panels.
Plumbing
The plumber is able to create a design using isometrics and riser diagrams that outlines the water plumbing and gas piping system, plus the fire protection system, such as sprinklers.
It’s important for the MEP firm to be involved in the early stages of planning construction of a building. The HVAC, electrical and plumbing systems need to be in place before other elements can be added because of the complex and detailed layouts of piping, ducts and drains as well as the electrical panels.
A benefit of using BIM modeling services in projects such as theses is the ability to collaborate. Each team working on a design can have access to the development of the design as well as make changes that everyone else can access. Any changes that cause conflicts within other areas of the design can be modified.
For instance, if a wall is placed in front of a vent that needs to be exposed, the software will alert the designers of the conflict so that it can be changed. Conflicts such as these are extremely important to catch in the planning stages. If it was overlooked in the development phase, then when it is discovered during construction, it can cause delays and increased costs.
Another benefit of building information modeling is the ability to analyze and model elements in order to create a building that’s going to have peak energy performance. BIM allows for manipulation of variables such as sunlight that comes into the building so that it can be incorporated into the heating and air system. Factoring in the sunlight that a building receives will help in determining now to efficiently heat and cool the building, which can reduce utility costs.
Once the building is complete, the use of BIM modeling services by MEP will be helpful in maintenance procedures. Having access to the mechanical, electrical and plumbing designs will make repairs and future renovations easier.
Indovance – Beneficial BIM Modeling Services & Engineering Outsourcing Services!
If you need help with a BIM project but don’t have the staff or resources, consider outsourcing your projects to Indovance, one of the top CAD drafting services companies in the world. Let us help your business complete your BIM projects so that you can focus on other elements of your business. We can help you increase output and grow your business. To learn more about Indovance and all the outsourcing services we offer, give us a call. We’d be happy to answer any questions you might have.
