How to design metal buildings with BIM?

Since pencils and paper blueprints were the only tools available in architecture, tools have come a long way. In spite of this, some of the most useful and advanced resources in the field are underutilized. Building information modeling (BIM) is an important tool for optimizing 3D metal building designs.

With the help of BIM software, designers, engineers, and project managers can create, refine, and share digital building designs and information relating to their projects all in one place.

A system with this kind of extensive functionality has several advantages over more conventional approaches to architecture, especially when you know how to utilize the functionality to the fullest extent possible.

Designing 3D metal buildings with BIM

There are many challenges that come with metal building projects, but BIM tools play an important role in making them easier. The following are a few of the most significant benefits of this technology.

Helps in the optimization of designs for the building

BIM can improve 3D metal building design through improved project visibility. Plans can be viewed from multiple angles, simulations can be run, and alternatives can be easily compared with the software. When you have this level of insight, you are able to determine the best way forward for your project.

Making informed decisions is also easier when all materials are visible. The weight and corrosion resistance of aluminum is one-third that of steel, but steel is stronger, which makes them ideal for a variety of applications. By using BIM, you can optimize your metal building design by looking at how each would affect it.

Project workflows can also be optimized using these techniques. As a result of BIM models, all relevant project information is consolidated, helping schedule teams more efficiently through the various phases of a project.

Less errors and mistakes while working

Any BIM solution must include clash detection as one of its most critical features. Errors are automatically identified and highlighted with this technology, so they can be addressed before construction starts. This can save a lot of money and time, considering that large projects can have 2,500 to 3,000 clashes.

Some constructions could require more space than they appear to at first, rendering them impractical or impossible. In contrast, certain designs may prevent access for necessary machinery during later stages of development. By finding and correcting these errors ahead of time with BIM clash detection, you can save expensive rework.

Detecting "4D" or workflow clashes like scheduling conflicts is also possible with these features. By doing so, you can avoid complications later on when they are more difficult to resolve.

Collaborations made easier

BIM also makes it easier to collaborate on your metal building projects. Due to their digital nature, these tools are easily shareable via email attachments. Multi-party BIM models can even be accessed and modified simultaneously using cloud-based platforms.

Working remotely and sharing information lets you collaborate with other stakeholders no matter where they are.

It also minimizes confusion since everyone will be working from the same file. This collaborative approach allows everyone to contribute their expertise in their areas of expertise during the design phase. Later stages of the project can be avoided through a single source of truth, which helps avoid conflict.

Streamlining project timelines

The combination of these advantages results in a valuable benefit - shortened project timelines. It is well known that construction projects often run behind schedule, with 85.5% of large-scale projects finishing at least two months late. Detecting clashes and collaborating with BIM tools can reverse that trend.

Through clash detection, BIM prevents rework from causing delays. You minimize the risk of an unexpected setback arising if you fix these clashes before the construction phase.Further reducing timelines is possible by avoiding workflow clashes.

It is also beneficial to use BIM models as a single, easy-to-access source of truth. Everyone involved can stay on the same page and prevent miscommunications when these resources are used. Thus, teams will be able to finish projects faster, which will boost client relationships and reduce costs.

BIM: Making It Work for Your Benefits

BIM has a lot of potential when it comes to designing 3D metal buildings. The following steps and considerations will help you realize that potential to the fullest.

Look for solutions that meet the goals that you have for your BIM software after defining what you need. Make sure your app is compatible with the other apps you use. You can use any source for ready-made 3D BIM models. To avoid future complications, you should only use content from companies that adhere to the highest industry standards.

To get online demonstration, watch the following video tutorial.

Video Source: CDMG

Make sure the solution you choose supports the cloud. A cloud-based system will make sharing and accessing models easier for remote collaborators. Communication and timelines will be improved further by this accessibility.

Despite BIM's long-term savings, upfront costs are the largest barrier to BIM adoption today. It is possible to minimize these concerns by implementing slowly and thoughtfully. Make your first improvements on projects with the most potential by implementing them with a relatively simple solution. The more you learn about it, the more professionals you can hire and the more extensions you can buy for it.

Designing metal buildings in 3D using BIM

As we know till now that BIM Is extremely useful in making metal buildings and in the work of construction as a whole. The use of BIM is crucial in the design of 3D metal buildings, especially when there are frequent delays and high costs involved. It is possible to use these tools effectively when you know how to make the best use of them.

Getting used to BIM can take some time, as with any new tool. The good news is that if you get started today, you can boost the performance of your organization as well as ensure its success in the future.