Building Information Modeling

At Grote Enterprises, we have embraced Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 3-D coordination as integral parts of mechanical construction today and in the future. We have actively participated in the BIM process on projects, such as Springfield Regional Medical Center, The Great American Insurance Building at Queen City Square, Amylin Pharmaceutical, NKU Bank of Kentucky Center, University of Kentucky Patient Care Facility, and University of Kentucky College of Pharmacy. Although not all of our projects are designed and managed using this virtual design, our Engineering & Coordination Department performs all of our systems coordination using 3-D software.

Autodesk describes BIM as “an innovative method to seamlessly bridge communication within the architecture, engineering and construction industries.” The Engineering and Coordination Department utilizes an advanced AutoCAD software package called CADDuct/Mech. As we coordinate the mechanical services (ductwork and piping), these systems are drawn in this 3-D software package, which allows us to review the design in a 3-D virtual building. This is an ideal tool for detecting clashes or interferences with other trades, as well as finding alternate paths for pipe/duct/conduit and other equipment in the building.

Building Information Modeling creates the opportunity for a virtual information model to be transmitted between design team members, contractors, the Owner, etc., allowing each to contribute based on their individual expertise, while tracking changes on a single model. This method greatly reduces information loss that typically occurs using traditional communication.

BIM can greatly decrease conflicts often not identified until the installation phase, by allowing the use of clash detection, which informs team members of conflicts in the design. This particular aspect of BIM can translate into benefits to major project objectives (ex. Budget, schedule, quality). Resolving conflicts during the design phase, instead of the construction phase will inherently reduce the number of RFI’s submitted, in turn reducing change orders, and schedule extensions, and ultimately the final cost of the project. Quality cannot help but improve when all members of the construction team have a complete picture of the work to be done, and the confidence that it can be done as designed.