Building information modeling (BIM) is some of the most important and powerful tech out there now. It is transforming, the way in which construction and restoration projects are done. This transformation means better buildings in more and better places, as well as a more profitable industry.

 

Spears Manufacturing our suppliers of FlameGuard®  now have a large selection of fittings available in BIM format.  This can be accessed from the BIMObject website, their files are available in Revit format. 

 

What is BIM?

BIM (Building Information Modeling) is an intelligent 3D model-based process that gives architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) professionals the insight and tools to more efficiently plan, design, construct, and manage buildings and infrastructure.

Architects are now, more than ever, looking to produce their drawings in sophisticated software including  Revit, SketchUp, Rhino3D, Archicad and Maya. These architectural rendering software programmes allow the professional to not only insert an exact size 3D model replica of the item, but also store specific product information into the items they’re installing into the building drawing.

In 2011 the UK Government Construction Strategy mandated the use of Level 2 BIM on all public sector projects by April 2016. BIM is currently being used by the majority of the major construction companies as standard.

 

Why is BIM important?

Construction project officers are becoming more demanding about the detail which is included in the building as they’re responsible for the life-cycle of the building, defined as existing from earliest conception to demolition.

In countries like ours lessons have been learnt from tragic events such as the Grenfell Tower fire disaster, where it was integral to know what had been used to construct the housing in order to help determine the cause of fire and to prevent further incidents in the future. The minimum requirement now enforced in the UK is for digital records to be available of all components installed within the building.