How does BIM benefit MEP coordination?

BIM (Building Information Modelling) is a 3d modelling platform embedded with information that tends to enhance the productivity and quality of buildings. It provides a detailed analysis of a project focusing on all the different services shared by all stakeholders. BIM services also produce information about Mechanical, Electrical and plumbing services for efficient and streamlined working.

During the construction stage, various MEP engineers have turned to technology to combat reworking and eliminate errors. One such technology-based solution is BIM, which provides clash detection and streamlined MEP installations.

This blog will discuss how introducing BIM in MEP coordination benefits the project. The different benefits further highlight how collaborating with Virtual Building Studio can improve the quality of work and facilitate better project management for the MEP engineers.

What is MEP coordination?

MEP coordination is a collaboration of three important frameworks of building construction, namely Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing services. According to Korman and Huey-King 2013, these services constitute 60% of the total cost of a building. These three verticals contribute to the constructability review process of MEP consultants for resolving clashes among these trades before the commencement of construction.

There are possibilities of collisions between installations for these services, which can lead to a wastage of time and resources if not detected before the construction stage. Proper coordination ensures harmony between the separate designs of these disciples. MEP coordination aligns these services with other building services that form the structure and building envelope of the project.

Key benefits of BIM in MEP coordination

BIM service offers various benefits for both architectural design and building construction phases. Here are some key benefits of BIM in MEP coordination.

1 Better Collaboration

Incorporating BIM services in a project enables the MEP engineers to collaborate with the architect, contractor, and other stakeholders associated with the project concurrently. BIM services in MEP create an opportunity to cross-examine any potential clashes in the drawings, eliminating the risk of project delay or reworking during the construction stage. The collaboration brings all the stakeholders together on the same page through better communication and aligned decision-making.

2 Enhanced Cost Estimation

BIM provides MEP engineers with opportunities to increase the efficiency of the project and reduce the project cost. BIM software has features that facilitate calculating the total project costs and budget management. BIM usage in MEP also helps in clash-detection in a project before the beginning of construction work eliminating the on-site expenditure on reworking, amendments and extra labour hours.

3 Increased Accuracy

BIM modeling services allow the MEP consultants to closely examine the service layouts and rectify the problems, if any, resulting in a project with enhanced accuracy. BIM software also verifies the implementation of standards and regulatory codes, which adds to the accuracy and eliminates problematic situations later on the site. BIM in MEP ensures the correct installation of these systems and improves the overall quality of the project.

4 Streamlined Execution Process

BIM services allow all stakeholders to come together and discuss every aspect of the project in detail, facilitating a streamlined execution of work on-site during the stage of construction. The professionals can communicate all design specifications to other team members, which leads to an informed process with the scope of change tending to be minimal. The improved accuracy and streamlined process also eliminate manual calculations and site visits.

5 Less Wastage of Material

BIM in MEP services on a project tends to eliminate the need for reworking or alterations during the later stage of construction. It results in efficient use of resources and eliminating material wastage which is otherwise a usual occurrence on-site. It also helps in quantifying the total material for every stage of construction, eliminating unnecessary use of resources.

6 Efficient Workflow and Project Management

BIM acts as a platform where the stakeholders can discuss and finalize the workflow for every stage, from design to construction. It eases the project management for the MEP engineers and allows them to easily track progress, coordinate with other stakeholders, and manage all resources efficiently. MEP engineers can also stay on top of their deadlines and budget the project with systematic project handling.

7 Minimization of Risk and Improved Safety

BIM services are beneficial in understanding the different construction scenarios and their related safety hazards. This feature allows the MEP engineers to take pre-requisite measures and mitigate the risks before construction begins, making the site safer for the workers. Incorporating BIM in MEP coordination also helps the consultants to ensure that all systems comply with the safety standards and are installed properly.

8 Improved and Information driven Visualization

BIM is software that formulates a 3-dimensional visual of a project with every single detail and element that a building encompasses. Such detailed analysis leads to a refined execution and secure completion of the project. The designers and MEP engineers can analyze all the layouts in detail, look for potential issues and rectify any errors before the construction phase. It also equips engineers with a better understanding of how all the systems work together resulting in a better work process and enhanced project quality.

How can a BIM service provider be helpful to MEP engineers?

If entering the domain of BIM services, partnering with Virtual Building Studio can be a beneficial step in this direction. BIM is a shared repository of wisdom with all details from design to the execution phase of the project. It eliminates the need of referring back to the drawing board stage and catalyzes the work speed with the efficient alignment of all project drawings. Any changes made at any project stage are automatically updated in the drawings using BIM, saving time and increasing accuracy.

The Studio Model by Virtual Building Studio is a resource model that will cater to MEP engineers in every way possible, catering to their respective concerns. It will find the right BIM solution for the client that fits well with their needs and is kind to the budget. Our services can help MEP engineers to serve their clients better and stay competitive in today’s market.