Prefabricated Building Services Engineering: What to Keep in Mind
They are an undeniable part of every home and commercial building: building systems. Whether it’s plumbing, electrical, IT, or HVAC systems, the role of technology in our environment has increased dramatically in recent decades. An industrial, prefab approach to these systems is still in its infancy in this sector. BIM4Production® also helps installation companies achieve their goals in scaling up the prefab production of system cabinets, cable harnesses, or HVAC systems. When industrializing this production, there are four developments to take into account.
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1Sequential Production
The degree of prefabrication depends on the specific installation technique. The “component” of the installation is also relevant. The meter cabinet or “wet room” (bathroom) can be installed relatively more quickly in a prefabricated production process than a wiring harness that is routed in a specific way within a prefabricated module. Based on the installation concept and BIM model, it is important to know which components are placed where and where the connections (connection points) are located.
Because each element has a unique position in BIM4Production®, all element details can be quickly accessed—not only during production, but also years after installation. Each element is linked to a document library that includes, among other things, the engineering specifications and the 3D and 2D drawings. This way, employees know exactly where and which technical connection points are required.
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2Deployment and Use of Materials and Components
A hallmark of building services engineering is the use of many (sub)materials. Any given installation consists of a combination of various “components” from an equally diverse range of manufacturers and suppliers. In the context of liability, it is becoming increasingly important to have control over and insight into the composition of the delivered technical solutions for delivery, maintenance, and service purposes.
BIM4Production® displays the “list” of components used for each element as soon as you scan the unique element code. This includes 2D drawings and, when automation permits, the supply chain as well.
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3Ensuring Quality
In the Netherlands, we set high standards for the safety of installations. These are laid out in various standards, laws, and regulations. The quality assurance process begins during the design phase of installations. These guidelines must be continuously monitored throughout the prefabrication process. Complying with them often takes a lot of time and places high demands on your staff.
BIM4Production® assists in this process. For example, with the element app. During the design phase, each element is assigned a unique QR code or RFID tag. Any employee can scan this to then complete checklists and add photos via a smartphone or tablet. This makes it possible to quickly and verifiably demonstrate at a later time that everything was manufactured, delivered, and installed in the prefabrication environment in accordance with current regulations.
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4Flexibility and Removability of Systems
From the perspective of sustainable maintenance and renovation, there is an increasing focus on demountable construction. This also applies to prefabricated systems, such as plug-in systems or climate control units mounted on a building’s exterior facade. It is therefore important to know where the connection and disconnection points for this technology are located.
Because each element has a unique position in BIM4Production®, all element details can be quickly accessed—not only during production but also years after installation. Each element is linked to a document library that includes engineering data as well as 3D and 2D drawings. This way, employees know exactly where the connection and disconnection points are within the element.
Other industries where BIM4Production® is used.
Betonnen elementen Aluminium Gevelbouw Module- / unitbouw Houtskeletbouw (HSB) Staal7463 PJ Rijssen
BTW: NL811764916B01