Shapiro & Duncan offers clients the advantage of a Building Information Modeling (BIM) process that is managed and operated in-house.
Our BIM process produces 3D mechanical drawings for use in planning, fabrication, and installation. We use the latest versions of Autodesk’s AutoCAD® Fabrication MEP and Navisworks®. AutoCAD® is used to model the real-world components that our field crews will later install in the buildings. Navisworks® is used to identify spatial conflicts. Since these programs are both produced by Autodesk, the files are compatible with each other and meet all current industry standards.
During the planning phase, we draw our pipes to match the engineers’ designs. We then have coordination meetings with general contractors, building owners, and other subcontractors to find possible conflicts. We consult with the general contractor and the modelers from the other trades to assign responsibility for fixing them. In working through these issues digitally rather than on the job site, we are able to make changes without wasting materials.
BIM Benefits
3D imaging gives the building owner a realistic virtual look at the product, before construction begins.
Correcting clash issues prior to field installation of systems helps reduce labor cost in the field.
By allowing systems to be completed off site, the BIM process enables us to meet more demanding project schedules.
We use BIM not only for construction, but for maintenance throughout the building life cycle. Our software creates intelligent objects that can be customized to match the documentation for each project.
This documentation also integrates purchasing information, which we use to generate pricing estimates and purchase orders.
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“When Shapiro and Duncan is on a Whiting-Turner project, it means one less contractor we have to worry about. From the use of BIM for coordination in ceilings and mechanical spaces to having many items come to the job site prefabricated, Shapiro and Duncan plays a leading role in meeting or exceeding quality standards of the project and contributes to the project being done on time and on budget.”
