Top Benefits of Detailing Precast Concrete Structures in Revit
BIM-based Detailing for Precast Concrete Structures
Complex architectural projects with demanding geometry and custom solutions require BIM and Revit reinforced processes and tools. Fast-paced projects with lower time allocation cannot rely on traditional 2D drawings for quality and speed.
A visual 3D structural model, a complete set of drawings, precise scheduling, material and cost estimation enable quick decision-making. Using BIM technology, driven by Revit, promotes modern precast concrete detailing through a single source of truth for the entire project lifecycle.
Precast concrete is a practical and efficient technique to drive concrete construction with the required aesthetics at low costs. With any form or size, these products can be fabricated at an offsite location. This process improves project schedules, mitigates site disruption, diminishes safety issues and improves productivity.
Based on a report by Reports and Data, the precast concrete market size will reach $168.17 billion by 2026.
Challenges faced with legacy methods of detailing
Large-scale projects face various types of challenge for architectural designing and detailing, structural analysis, production, site organization, logistics, etc. Substandard structural engineering can impact the durability and safety of buildings, including structural compatibility during the building lifecycle.
Structural optimization and sustainability are highly impeded with the following challenges:
1. Lack of visualization in the pre-construction stage to create accurate 2D documentation leads to rework, project delays, and cost overruns.
2. Inaccurate estimation of concrete volume, metal quantities per structure, and other elements.
3. Large work volumes and tight deadlines including higher numbers of project teams, design changes, and labor division.
4. Incorrect dimensions of precast elements based on higher human intervention through CAD-based drawings.
5. Inability to identify clashes early in the pre-construction stage leads to onsite ambiguities and project delays.
6. Unaccountability of bearing capacity for concrete precast detailing leads to poor planning and schedule delays .
7. Non-synchronized project documentation such as precast mounting plans or scaffolding plans provoke inefficient onsite coordination and control.
To overcome these challenges, structural engineers and precast engineers must latch onto precast concrete detailing or avail precast detailing services, supported with BIM and Revit.
Mentioned below are best practices to 3D model a concrete frame for accurate spatial coordination and calculations.
Top Benefits of Detailing Precast Concrete Structures in Revit
1. Better visualization with 3D Revit models about precast concrete components connections
A 3D structural model coordinated with architectural and MEP disciplines provides accurate and detailed visualization of precast components. With enhanced visualization, stakeholders can view minutest of details and create production data for reinforcement cutting and bending machinery. A clash-free 3D Revit model at high LOD supports the creation of bar bending schedules, rebar detailing, and data extraction with detailed concrete designs.
A precast manufacturing company in India needed Revit BIM modeling and Rebar modeling services for an office building project. The team at TrueCADD created a coordinated and clash-free 3D model at LOD 450 with Rebar and bar bending schedules within a short time duration.
Architecture and MEP models were integrated into the structural model to create a single coordinated Revit model. The coordinated Revit structure model with complete sheet setup and precise documentation helped the client save project costs and time.
2. Drawing of components and integrating them into new design variations reduces rework
Precast modeling and detailing reinforced with automation and Revit families promote higher design iterations. BIM allows drawing of various components such as precast panels, columns beams and integrating them into new design variations with minimal iterations. Precast components visualized in the preconstruction stage drives accurate precast component manufacturing to reduce rework, save time, and lower material waste.
3. Produce inter-disciplinary clash-detection reports so that all services are aligned
Coordinated and clash-free 3D modeling encourages structural coordination as well as extraction of technical specification. BIM provides interdisciplinary coordination between architectural, structural and MEP disciplines at the pre-construction stage. This ensures early identification and resolution of clashes. Precise connection details, shop drawings with BBS, and rebar modeling through clash-free 3D models ensure all services are aligned for fabrication and installation.
4. Ensure every stakeholder is on the same page through a single source of truth
A single source of truth based on a 3D BIM precast model encourages improved detailing. Multiple trades such as architectural, structural, and MEP can access data from a coordinated and interference-free 3D Revit model. An information-packed 3D model with full sheet setup and complete documentation based on collaboration promotes cost-effective deliverables and outcomes.
5. Build a cloud-based paperless workflow that can be accessed by anyone
A cloud-based paperless process through platforms like 360 promotes safe storage and access to precast 3D models and documentation. Digital precast deliverables stored on a single repository ensures centralized data usage. Remote access to precast data for fabricators and onsite personnel drives quick and improved decision-making for seamless construction.
Conclusion
3D BIM modeling using Revit to detail precast concrete structures drives quick and improved quality in comparison to conventional 2D detailing. Switching from 2D to 3D for a quick and efficient precast detailing experience is on the rise.
Precast detailing firms or structural engineers tend to have a competitive advantage while adopting Revit-based techniques to detail precast structures. The application of Revit streamlines the information flow for quick decision-making to produce, transport, store, and assemble precast elements.
About Author:
Harika Singh is an academician and published writer. Her passion for engineering and technology reflects in the in-depth coverage she provides on technology trends. 20 years of work association with institutes of repute across India and the US positions her to provide valuable insights to business stakeholders on achieving scalability and operational efficiencies through digitalization.
