How BIM provides great benefits to MEP Engineers through 3D Building System Design

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Introduction to BIM

• What is BIM?

Building information modeling also simply known as BIM is a process that is supported by various tools, technologies, and contracts. BIM is the modeling and digital presentation of physical and functional characteristics of places. Building Information Modeling is a revolutionary process and technique in modern architectural and building design. Traditional building modeling was limited to only two-dimensional technical drawings such as plans, elevations, and sections. However, thanks to modern technology, the advancement of computers and the emerging of modeling tools such as CAD Software, building modeling has become more efficient and more helpful to the MEP Engineers, builders, and architects. On top of that, it is also important to know that BIM is not just simply the geometrical representation of a building, BIM covers spatial relationships, light analysis, geographic information, and quantities and properties of building components such as manufacturers’ details. BIM is used for:

• Geometrical Modeling.
• Parametric Modeling.
• HVAC Design.
• Structural Design.
• Spatial Reasoning.

• Tips in order to get better at BIM

As stated before, BIM is extremely important for MEP Engineering and other engineering disciplines so how can one get better or get started with BIM? Here are some tips in order to get started and get better at BIM:

• Get the Proper Software

The first step into starting with BIM is to get the proper software. When it comes to 3D modeling, there are many options to choose such as SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, RHINO BIM, AUTODESK FABRICATION…

• Learn as you go:

The second step after choosing and installing the proper BIM Software is to learn the proper tools and techniques. The best way to learn is to practice as much as possible by starting with small projects. Working with a team of BIM designers and engineers will give you a great experience and a valuable boost in confidence.

• Make it easy

The best way to learn fast and get experienced is not getting engaged in complicate things. Always try to find the simplest and easiest way to do things. This way your modeling and designing time will be reduced significantly as well as you will be more productive.

• The proper Computer:

Even with having the proper knowledge, technique, and suitable BIM Software, without having a proper computer you can get as far as your computer allows you. If you want to improve your skills, you must invest in purchasing a high spec Computer.

BIM and MEP Engineering

• problems that MEP Engineers face

MEP Engineers may face plenty of challenges and setbacks that may halt their work or cause their projects to take much longer. Here are some of the problems and difficulties that MEP Engineers face:

• Conflict and confusion: when designing a large building, the mechanical department may clash with the plumbing or electrical department which may cause valuable time to be wasted.
• Security and safety issues: When installing the ventilation systems, MEP Engineers may spot safety and security issues.
• Valuable space: MEP Engineers may design the mechanical equipment and plumbing network to take up more room and space than needed.

• Advantages and benefits that BIM provides to MEP Engineers

Building Information Modeling brings so many advantages and benefits to MEP Engineers. Here are some of the many pros of BIM that an MEP engineer can benefit from:

• Reduce uncertainty: the BIM produces a visual representation of the facility or the building before any physical construction. Therefore, it enables mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers to be able to see the work in its totality, thus, reducing the likelihood of unexpected issues or any misunderstandings.
• Improve safety: having a 3D Model, any potential safety and security issues can be easily highlighted and spotted before the work begins.
• Material optimization: material wastage can be extremely costly; however, thanks to BIM, it can be significantly minimized by having products delivered as needed instead of having to stockpile on-site in advance.
• Space Allocation: with BIM, MEP engineers can do exact load calculations. Engineers can claim the required space for mechanical and electric rooms without having to worry about any changes that may occur during later stages. In other words, smaller rooms for mechanical and electrical systems will bring more revenue for the owner.
• Representation and visualization: in BIM there are two main types of building visualization:
  1. the schematic representation which can be an elementary stage for BIM Models. These documents reflect how engineers want plumbing network, air, hydronic and power systems to be sized as well as distributed within the building.
  2. The other visualization is a fully 3D model that includes such details as construction drawings, Bill of Materials, fabricant models… These representations bring clarity to the design and construction process.
• Spatial Coordination: In a building’s ecosystem, the space above the ceiling is very important for MEP engineers. Mechanical equipment occupies most of the space, and hence mechanical equipment and devices are placed first. This may cause conflict with other engineers; however, thanks to BIM, this problem can be avoided by providing the 3D model of the building including the ceiling and what it is above it in order to coordinate with the rest of the MEP engineers.
• Team building and knowledge sharing: BIM Software can help MEP Engineers work together and share the knowledge with each other thanks to a well-designed construction workflow.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Building Information Modeling is extremely important for MEP engineers. Thanks to modern technology such as high spec computers and advanced CAD Software, engineers can now fully represent buildings in order to avoid conflict between MEP Engineers, minimize material wastage as well as improve safety.