Since the introduction of BIM back in 2011, it has become an indispensable tool in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industries, but what does it have to offer MEP engineers?

One of the main benefits of BIM (Building Information Modelling) is that it offers an early insight into critical design data in real-time scenarios directly from the architectural model. This is a real benefit for MEP engineers as it gives them access to critical information about:

  • Ceiling elevations
  • Rooms
  • Walls with electrical devices
  • Walls with plumbing

MEP engineers can use this information for clash detection meaning they can remodel electrical wiring and plumbing before the first brick is even laid. This saves not only time but more importantly money as well – as there will be no need for timely and expensive remodels in the middle of the building project.

BIM also allows for closer collaboration between all of the trades that are involved in a building project as it gives them a central place to store, and share, all of the relevant information. This compilation of all of the available information will highlight any lack of coordination before it becomes an issue, allowing on the spot design improvements to be made, and enabling shorter review times.

A BIM model can hold a vast amount of data and other relevant information, allowing for referencing and cross-referencing to be done throughout the whole construction process. It will also show if any design modifications will cause friction with other elements of the existing design.

There are usually many spur of the moment changes that take place during the construction phase of a project, and BIM is smart enough to detect these and highlight them, saving you money and time, and allowing you to move forward with your project with peace of mind.

Some of the most common uses for BIM in MEP services include:

#1 Electrical Outlines

Electrical outlines, or frames, show all of the electrical components within a building. They give contractors the knowledge of where everything is going to be installed within the building and show electricians what they need to install, and where, so there are no issues with maintaining system guidelines further down the line.

#2 Mechanical Drawings

For any construction project to be successful, there needs to be complete mechanical designs, as these ensure all engineers are working on the same page. These drawings tend to cover the multiple mechanical parts that are required, as well as any other components that the MEP engineers will use.

A mechanical engineer will design the elevator shaft, for example, but an electrical engineer will need to be involved in the process as well.

#3 Plumbing Diagrams

Plumbing diagrams are also vital as they will need to be approved by the building inspectors, and will also guarantee that everything is at the level where it needs to be.

If you are involved in MEP engineering and want to save time and money on your projects, then please get in touch with the team at The CAD Room on 0161 427 0348 or by email at office@thecadroom.com