LEVERAGING 3D INFORMATION IN THE FIELD: HOW CAN ERECTORS BENEFIT?

Image courtesy of Virtual Steel Technologies

Editor's note: This article, written by Design Data's James Schwartz, originally appeared in the Fall 2016 issue of SEAA Connector.

Digital 3D models are becoming a primary method of communication between disciplines within the construction industry. While fabricators have been using them to produce shop drawings and CNC data since the 80s, new disciplines — such as the BIM coordinator — have emerged in the industry. The advancement of GPS and advent of drones brings us to the next logical step: the use of models for procurement, planning and construction on the site.

So what are the benefits of utilizing the 3D models for site planning?

One issue for the site is having current up-to-date documentation, especially where construction drawings are concerned. The advantage of having the fabrication 3D model, is what you see is what was fabricated. The CNC data used to run the fabrication machinery comes from the 3D model. An out-of-date model would be a very costly affair, so accuracy is of the utmost importance. 2D drawings can also be directly linked to the model for further investigation, without having to forage through piles of documentation.

Many of us are visual, especially those on the site. If we can see it we can build it. The ability to quickly visualize a connection — without having to interpret to 3D from a combination of 2D drawings — will reduce, if not eliminate, errors and confusion. The model will allow for better communication between people and execution of the plan.

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EARN SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES WITH SDS/2

The need for detailers with SDS/2 experience and knowledge continues to grow, and Northcentral Technical College (NTC) and Design Data have partnered to provide the training necessary to excel in this high-demand profession.

As part of this program, Design Data is offering scholarship opportunities of up to $1,000 to our customers who complete a class through NTC's Structural Steel Detailing program and purchase a new license of SDS/2. To learn more about the scholarship program, contact Amanda Kunze.

Several SDS/2 customers have already participated in the program; you can learn more about how the NTC program has benefited their companies here.

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR 2017 NASCC

Registration is now open for the 2017 NASCC: The Steel Conference, taking place in San Antonio, Texas, March 22-24.

Among the session highlights for this year: 3D Model Review and Approval Really Works, which will be presented Wednesday, from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m.; Quality Procedures in Detailing Offices, from 3:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Thursday; and The Little Site That Could: 150 N Riverside, from 9:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Wednesday.

NASCC is the perfect place for steel fabricators, detailer, erectors and structural engineers to interact with their peers and learn more about structural steel design and construction. This year’s conference includes more than 100 technical sessions and an extensive trade show with more than 200 exhibitors. Design Data will be exhibiting in booths #7017 and #7025.

To register for NASCC or to view the advance program, complete with a detailed list of the conference sessions, click here.

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: HADLEY FALLS STATION

The Hadley Falls Station Downstream Fish Passage project in Holyoke, Massachusetts, was split into four major parts.

The most challenging aspect of the project was the twisted and rolled conduit plates; the project's fabricator was able to use CNC files — created by detailer Steltec Inc. of Sainte-Théresé, Quebec, Canada — to create the plates.

Another major component was the new bulkhead and pier extension, which consisted of three major frames bolted together with rolled skins. The flume extension also posed a challenge, due to the geometry and complete location on site.


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