|
Company name: Project name: Project location: Relevant dates for the completion of the project: MagiCAD modules used: |
We interviewed Marcos Sánchez,
Mechanical Engineering BIM Coordinator
at BOD Arquitectura e Ingeniería.
Detailed Project description
Can you describe the project in short? General project information and scope.
The building subject of this project is an office building, with a unique geometry and a total built area of 11.250m². It consists of 7 floors above ground level for offices and 2 below ground level for parking.
The project carried out by BOD includes the design, architecture, structural engineering and all the MEP services.
What was your role in the project?
I am a Mechanical Engineering BIM Coordinator. I am the BIM manager in the development of the mechanical installations in BOD, which include HVAC, fire protection, drainage, plumbing and centrally controlled installations that have been modelled in this building.
How much experience would you say BOD has working with BIM projects?
Since 1985 we offer services in Architecture, Structural Engineering and MEP Engineering services, with a focus on customer service and technical excellence.
BOD began working using a BIM methodology in 2008 in the Pharmaceutical, Industrial and Logistics Sectors, Offices, Headquarters, Hotels, Residences, Hospitals and other Public Service buildings.
BOD is a pioneer and has become a reference in Spain in the field of BIM, with more than 10 years of proven experience and more than 4,000,000 m² modelled.
We are one of the few companies in the Spanish industry that can proudly claim to be a truly BIM ruled Company.
What was the biggest challenge in this project?
When we design a building at BOD, we think of its Architecture and Engineering as a “whole” dedicated to giving maximum satisfaction to its users.
In this particular project, the design of the air-conditioning and ventilation systems inside the offices and the study of the noise levels of the cooling units and the air terminals have been particularly important.
As these are open-plan offices with visible systems, the layout of the systems and their integration into the aesthetics of the building are of crucial importance to ensure a good result.
How did you manage to solve the challenges and how did MagiCAD help?
Adjusting MEP system to the changes that are introduced into the project during the design phase, as part of the natural process of improvement in architecture or structures, is one of the main challenges in which MagiCAD helps us to deal with in general.
For us, having a tool which allows us to calculate within the same REVIT model in which all disciplines work together is key.
In the particular case of the calculation of sound levels, with MagiCAD’s tool for sound calculation in a specific area, we have managed to achieve adequate sound levels for systems with visible fan coil units.
MagiCAD usage within Revit projects
Did you use modelling tools, calculation tools or both?
Both: We used Smart Sizing, Balancing and Pressure Drop calculations for different duct and pipe systems. Regarding MEP modelling, we used Smart Tools for modelling MEP elements and for the selection of families, also for the coordination between MEP, architectural and structural disciplines.
Were there any particular features that were useful in this project or in general?
For cooling pipes, calculating their flow, pressure drop and network balancing. Sound calculation of a fan coil and its respective air terminals in a space without a false ceiling.
How was your overall experience from using MagiCAD in this project?
Optimal, in the same BIM environment you can perform all the calculations and obtain their reports. Modelling becomes easier and faster, as well as generating new families and checking for clashes.
How did the software and BIM help you with project management and cooperation with other parties in the project?
The technification made possible by the use of software and the BIM concept itself contributes greatly to the management of a project in the design phase as it makes it very easy to handle the calculation of the different air/water systems. In terms of coordination with other disciplines, the clash detection tool allows good control over the Revit model to achieve a coordinated solution and makes on-site construction easier.
What benefits did MagiCAD provide compared to using standard Revit for MEP design?
The main one is a matter of quality: it allows you to have an up-to-date model at your disposal at all times, in which any modifications can be quickly implemented and systems recalculated.
On the other hand, it is clear that it increases the speed in the design of the MEP systems as it allows you to unify the calculation and modelling process.
Specific modelling tools for connecting pipes and ducts, their crossings and elevations enables easier coordination with the rest of the elements.
And finally, generating Revit families and their types, with the technical information of the different elements, all integrated in one Dataset.
Did you notice any time saving in the design of the project by using MagiCAD?
Yes, it allowed us to model the MEP systems faster, to check for clashes, to generate reports between the different departments (Architecture, Structures and MEP) and to avoid clashes using smart tools. In addition to being able to generate a report for the calculations of the different air/water systems.