NEI
Electric has been using BIM since 2009 to help make our installation of the
electrical systems as efficient as possible.
We currently have (2) in-house CAD/BIM Operators and have an annual
subscription with Autodesk so that our programs are always up to date (AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks,
etc.).
NEI uses BIM to coordinate structural
openings in the floors, assist with equipment layout in the electrical rooms
and coordinate above ceiling installations with the Mechanical Contractors, Engineer,
Architect and the General Contractor. Our CAD/BIM Operator assigned to the
project will attend 1-2 coordination meetings a week on-site or virtually. We typically model at a LOD 400
Level, including all panelboards, light fixtures, cable tray, conduit 1 ¼” or
larger, and conduits racks of 3 or more.
Ultimately
to NEI, the goal of a BIM project is to save the owner money by reducing or
eliminating costly rework on the project. Initially it would appear that the
cost for BIM only adds to the cost of the project; we have found that this is
not true. BIM is a method that really is a formal exercise that includes all
disciplines in the coordination of the project; it actually guarantees to the
owner that coordination has been completed. Historically the BIM activity is
completed by the field employees prior to and during construction.
With BIM the contract drawings are
accurate and complete, reducing rework and avoiding cost overruns and lost
time.
Projects that recently were completed
using BIM:
United Hospital Mother/Baby, Saint Paul, MN $2,900,000
JAMF Software, Eau Claire, WI $1,500,000
Oakleaf Surgical Center, Altoona, WI $3,450,000
Spooner Hospital, Spooner, WI $2,245,000
United & Children’s Hospital Tower, Saint Paul, MN $9,500,000
6-story Core & Shell
UH Emergency Department Interior Build-out
CH 3rd & 4th Floor Interior Build-out
Written By: Matt Troendle, LEED Green Associate
NEI Electric CAD/BIM Operator
