All reinforcement detailing for the project was produced in 3D using Allplan Engineering. There are numerous reasons why ISG selected 3D Reinforced Concrete detailing services over the traditional option of 2D flat reinforcement drawings, all based around the traditional parameters of time cost and quality.
Allplan 3D RC detailing BIM software allowed the modelling of every single reinforcing bar supplied on the project producing a full prototype of the reinforcement cages within the concrete frame. This allowed a high degree of clash detection to protect the construction site from unnecessary problems and delays.
3D PDF files of selected areas of the structure were produced to allow site staff to examine the reinforcement cages to be fixed before any reinforcement is delivered to site. Site staff can get a better understanding of any lifting or access issues at such an early stage in the project that reinforcement details can be fine tuned to suit site preferences before any bars are in production at the bar bending factory.
3D PDF files are particularly useful to contractors wishing to prefabricate areas of the reinforcement on a project, as this makes the planning of the reinforcing fixing even more important.
Once optimum details were established to suit any site preferences or site specific issues, the Allplan software then printed standard format drawings and schedules for use on site in the traditional manner. An important point is that the actual reinforcing bar construction drawings and 3D PDF files are produced from the same input data whilst producing the BIM model, so the 3D PDFs really are a visual check on the exact reinforcement that will be delivered to site for fixing.
All the above meant that site Request For Information (RFIs) relating to reinforcement detailing were practically non-existent.
The use of BIM in the above manner in relation to the reinforcement detailing helped to achieve a four week shortening of the running construction programme.
From the BIM model, built primarily for reinforcement detailing, a weekly colour coded 3D PDF was produced for ISG showing the status of all construction elements: whether design intent had been received, whether various elements were awaiting drawings, had RC details been issued for approval, or indeed were signed off and at construction status. This produced a very current and visual tool which quickly showed any areas which might be endangering the project delivery date.
In summary, the use of BIM for RC detailing on this project helped to avoid site errors and unnecessary cost, save time, increase the quality of information delivered to site for construction and ensure programme delivery.