{"id":4742,"date":"2014-08-01T08:26:49","date_gmt":"2014-08-01T12:26:49","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.constructionspecifier.com\/?p=4742"},"modified":"2017-01-13T15:06:57","modified_gmt":"2017-01-13T20:06:57","slug":"the-benefits-of-bim-for-interior-steel-framing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.constructionspecifier.com\/the-benefits-of-bim-for-interior-steel-framing\/","title":{"rendered":"The benefits of BIM for interior steel framing"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Image<\/a>
Image \u00a9 BigStockPhoto\/AndreasG<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

by Mike Murzyn<\/strong>
\n<\/strong>Building information modeling (BIM) is quickly becoming a formal procedure for modern steel construction. From software that optimizes the building envelope with information on dead load and structural load inputs for wind, seismic, and other requirements, to programs enabling sustainable design by addressing energy efficiency and green product specification, BIM processes are being adopted across the country.<\/p>\n

<\/a>Recent research conducted by McGraw-Hill Construction shows BIM adoption in the construction industry expanded to more than 70 percent of architects and engineers in 2012, compared to 17 percent in 2007 and 49 percent in 2009.1<\/sup><\/a> However, while use is increasing, the concept of component-specific BIM for applications such as wall, floor, and ceiling systems is only beginning to gain traction among design and building professionals. Sometimes referred to as \u2018add-ins,\u2019 these tools allow specific products and systems to be directly imported into a larger BIM design and shared with the entire construction team, enhancing project coordination and collaboration.<\/p>\n

Component-specific BIM for wall design
\n<\/strong>Accounting for nearly 60 percent of all metal studs in the United States, interior, non-<\/a>structural wall partitions are one of the most common applications for steel framing\u2014specifically light-gauge studs.2<\/sup><\/a><\/p>\n

\"In<\/a>
In this example, the conduit and wall framing have been planned to work together. The bank of electrical outlets was known in the design phase. As a result, each trade was able to understand how the elements should fit in the field. Not only does this look clean, but the coordinated effort also allowed it to pass inspection and prevent delays in the field.<\/span> Images courtesy ClarkDietrich Engineering Services LLC<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Steel framing used for interior wall partitions comes in various shapes, thicknesses, and sizes. Each of these components has a specific function in the wall assembly. Selecting the correct size and thickness depends primarily on spacing of framing members and the wall\u2019s height. Other considerations throughout the selection process include the application of the wall finishes, whether they will be applied to one or both sides, full height for composite design, and any applicable impact resistance requirements.<\/p>\n

Through use of building information models, each element of a wall assembly can be created as an \u2018intelligent\u2019 object containing a broad array of product information in addition to its physical dimensions. Every element in the BIM project knows how it relates to other objects and to the overall design. This helps manage complex plans from multiple trades, as well as identify and avoid potential clashes or inconsistencies before reaching the jobsite. This is of particular importance as the wall framing phase of a project can significantly impact several other trades.<\/p>\n

Additionally, the level of detail available through BIM add-ins is of value to architects and engineers looking to develop data-rich 3D images of interior spaces or component load-bearing wall framing. It helps in the creation of infinite views, perspectives, schedule data, and facility and operational management for the life of the building. In addition to detail on code requirements and strength, a BIM project that has taken wall types to the next step by using framing add-in software can identify the location of wall penetrations, as well as provide accurate wall shapes and opening dimensions on individual panel drawings.<\/p>\n

Wall design and construction
\n<\/strong>There are hundreds of different wall types being used in steel framing, however, there has been little information about incorporating interior framing into BIM projects until recently.<\/p>\n

\"Building<\/a>
Building information modeling (BIM) is helping streamline the cold-formed steel (CFS) framing process by providing detailed 3D models to track the framing through the construction process and allowing them to frame around other trades without the mechanical systems being in place.<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

In response, some cold-formed steel (CFS) framing manufacturers offer BIM add-ins allowing users to seamlessly integrate a significant amount of wall data into new or existing models, improving comprehensiveness. The programs can also eliminate the need for temporary wall libraries requiring users to change each individual wall element to accommodate updates.<\/p>\n

When considering different wall framing BIM add-ins, it is important to ensure the program includes all the information the design team needs, such as:<\/p>\n