A GPRS Case Study

Ethanol Plant Upgrades to Increase Efficiency and Lower Emissions

Ethanol Plant Upgrades to Increase Efficiency and Lower Emissions
“We were extremely impressed with GPRS in your timeliness on responding to our request, to having a crew on site to complete the scan, and in your communication with us through the process. This was the first time we have used GPRS modeling services, and the 3D model your team created was outstanding. We were very impressed with the level of detail and quality of the model, the speed in which your team was able to create it, and all aspects of communication during the process.”
Seth A.R. Gressley, P.E.
TLF Engineers’ Senior Project Engineer

Highlights

THE BOTTOM LINE

3D laser scanning will help this Andersons’ facility optimize processes and equipment to improve their overall efficiency, decrease air pollution, reduce costs, and remain competitive in the market.

INDUSTRY

Agricultural 3D Laser Scanning

SERVICE

3D Laser Scanning, Mapping & Modeling

LOCATION

Clymers, Indiana

PM Insight

Deliverables

PROJECT APPLICATION

3D laser scanning collects accurate agricultural as-built data safely from the ground, delivering precise site layout and dimensions for design planning and analysis.

ASK

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Task

GPRS was hired by TLF Engineers to 3D laser scan the exterior cooler area at the southeast corner of The Andersons’ Indiana Ethanol Plant and create a 3D BIM model for process improvements.

PROBLEM

  • The Andersons’ planned to make process improvements over the next five years to improve operational efficiency and lower plant emissions
  • TLF Engineers needed up-to date as-builts of the plant infrastructure to design upgrades to equipment and production lines
  • Precise details were required for a 2,500 sq. ft. area, including the existing cooler, drop box, dust collectors, platforms, cooler, stack, and ductwork

Solution

  • 3D laser scanning captured a colorized point cloud with 2-4mm accuracy and HDR images in less than 3 minutes per scan location
  • The point cloud was used to develop a 3D BIM model at a very high level of detail with precise architectural, structural, and MEP features
  • TruView 360° photographs provided a virtual site tour, allowing the client to take basic dimensions, estimate clearances, and markup the project site

Benefits

  • Comprehensive data of existing structure and equipment was crucial to plan process improvements and equipment optimization
  • With a detailed 3D BIM model, the engineering team was able to virtually design the facility layout, retrofit equipment, and optimize workflow
  • Updates improved ethanol yield and quality, increased production efficiency, and lowered plant emissions

CASE STUDY GALLERY

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“Our team was more effective and efficient because of SiteMap, allowing us to provide better results from more informed decision-making.”
Alexander Valigosky
Project Environmental Scientist

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