CU Sep-Oct 2023

TECHNOLOGYfocus
NO EXCESS MATERIALS = NO
EXCESS CARBON
South Durham Structures, a structural steel
fabricator in the North East of England, is a
great example of this, as Operations
Director, Keith Corner, explained: "Since
introducing a digital MIS into our workflow,
the estimation stage is now a far faster and
more automated process. Once we receive
the IFC file from the engineer at the initial
tender stage, we're able to import this
directly into the software. Thanks to its
emphasis on data integration and
automation, we're then able to generate
estimates and quantity take-offs directly
from the IFC file - overall, a far easier,
efficient and more accurate way of working.
"We can also track stock levels with the
live inventory, which is a real game
changer. Easy to use and offering
enhanced levels of visibility, we no longer
have to manually and physically check
what stock we already have, compared to
what stock we need to purchase on every
job. Instead, it's all automated, giving us a
far better and more informed way to
handle stock. We just import files from the
drawing office and the digital system will
do the rest!"
Of course, another way to reduce carbon
and be 'greener' is to improve accuracy
levels. Whether caused by errors at the
detailing stage or the inefficient transfer of
information to fabricators and contractors,
material wastage can be a major potential
problem on any construction project. This
could take the form of structural
components being fabricated and
delivered to site, only for contractors to
then discover that they cannot be used,
due to clashing with other sections.
As well as the obvious delays this can
cause to the project's overall delivery
schedule, these errors and the subsequent
rework and refabrication required to rectify
them can also result in excess carbon
being generated - emissions that could so
easily be avoided entirely.
Here, again, a digital MIS continues to
deliver. Such software is not just for
managers, it is for everyone within a
fabrication business, including those on the
shop or factory floor. Everyone can benefit
from coordinated and easily accessible
project data, especially at a time where
labour shortages are an issue so many
manufacturers are facing.
Using a digital MIS and other technology,
fabricators, welders and machine
operators can view the corresponding 3D
model and 2D drawings on a tablet, taking
the model from the drawing office to the
shop floor. As well as helping to speedily
resolve any queries, having everyone
connected to the central BIM model and
its high levels of information can
contribute to a more efficient and more
accurate way of working.
FEWER MISTAKES = LESS REWORK,
WASTE, AND CARBON
In fact, with digitisation present throughout
the construction sequence, it's possible to
achieve an 80% reduction in rework,
resulting in significant carbon savings.
Trimble's Tekla PowerFab is developed
specifically for steel fabricators, offering
truly connected steel fabrication
management. A comprehensive software
suite, it provides a systematic and
collaborative approach, delivering a
smooth, continuous and real-time flow of
information on projects from start to finish.
Connected and sustainable construction
needs integrated data across the project
lifecycle, with high levels of accuracy and
coordination - all of which a management
information system can provide. If
construction is to green up its image, then
it's clear that change is needed. By moving
away from the paper-based approach to
digital technology, fabricators can make a
difference to the environment while also
working smarter.
For more information, please visit:
www.tekla.com/uk
September/October 2022 25