Feature
BIM IN HVAC&R
– A LOCAL PICTURE
By Ilana Koegelenberg
As technology becomes increasingly important in all aspects of HVAC&R,
there is no denying that especially building information modelling (BIM) can
add great value to projects. We find out how from the BIM Institute.
WHY BIM?
COMMON MISTAKES
Mistakes commonly made include a lack of BIM
understanding; reluctance to commit to the BIM processes
and proper implementation on a project; poor/non-existing
When correctly planned and managed, HVAC&R could enjoy
similar BIM benefits as architecture and other disciplines/
applications do, explains Lourens Henning, director of
the South African BIM Institute. For professionals, BIM
can support designing of custom systems, virtual testing
of systems and the like, and can inform optimisation of
intended installations.
As for the downstream use of the BIM, it can assist in
quantification (and as a result, also costing), spatial (3D)
coordination (that is, clash detection), and programming of
installation during construction.
“When correctly managed, it promises to benefit the
client/end user in the long run, where maintenance cycles
can be scheduled and budget planning can be done,”
explains Henning.
Christopher Allen, lecturer: building science
(environment and services), BIM and planning specialist,
Department of Construction Management, also sees the
benefit of BIM in the HVAC&R industry.
“BIM is a fantastic tool for HVAC&R, as it enables
professionals to design better and more efficient systems
as a result of more accurate information,” explains Allen.
This is in terms of volumes, say for air change rates, but also
to reduce waste in the design and manufacture of the likes
of pipework and ductwork. By sizing it correctly, a plant
can be made smaller and thus plant rooms can be better
designed, allowing developers to increase floor space for
rental, especially in multistorey buildings. In addition, due to
reduced plant sizing, structural requirements can be reduced,
also assisting in reducing costs for the building structure.
The ability to take simple flow diagrams and convert
them using predefined components from a drop-down
menu (all with the necessary information on material type,
fixing requirements, and so on included) and then output
this to pipe-cutting machines or plate folding and welding
machinery, speeds up the process and also means it is
more accurate. This also assists with the installation, as
virtual design and construction can be carried out using the
models to identify cut-outs needed in slabs or through steel
beams for example, not to mention the health and safety
aspects being addressed, including temporary works for the
installation process, says Allen.
BIM is a fantastic tool for HVAC&R, as it enables professionals to design better
and more efficient systems as a result of more accurate information.
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RACA Journal I January 2019
www.hvacronline.co.za