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Home » Concrete Contractor » July 2009

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Concrete and BIM

Building Information Modeling (BIM) programs offer a 3D vision of a project before it's built, like this parking garage model created in Tekla Structures.

BIM models may look complicated, but contractors say the 3D programs are set up the way people think, making them easier to grasp than 2D programs.

BIM programs show concrete contractors how their work will integrate with other trades before the concrete is poured, allowing them the chance to remedy clashes before they happen.

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"BIM software allows for the creation of very detailed and complex models that can contain thousands of objects. It's the combination of all of the objects that makes the models complex, not the individual objects themselves. Most of the individual objects are relatively easy to create." Lock continues, "As a person begins to understand this, the process of making models becomes much easier for them."

Software providers offer extensive training on their programs, including online webinars and videos. The AGC also offers BIMForum.org, an online community dedicated to the sharing of BIM information.

Stegmeier and Lock agree that one of the biggest problems contractors face when working with BIM is finding architects and engineers who are willing to share their drawing files for import into their BIM programs. But as the technology becomes more prevalent and project teams see the benefits of BIM for everyone in the building cycle, the construction industry will realize the true value of these programs.

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