Manufacturing Plant Upgrades with 3D Laser Scanning

The client was in need of valid, detailed documentation of the existing layout. The amount of current equipment and piping in the space made it difficult for the architects and contractors to know the precise location to install new lines and equipment. In challenging manufacturing facilities which house complicated, congested piping structures, clash detection via Building Information Modeling (BIM) becomes a vital planning step. A 3D BIM model helps identify clashes during the design stage, virtually eliminates design changes, and reduces costs and project delays.

Using a survey-grade Leica laser scanner, the GPRS team completed 254 scans during two days on site. GPRS scan-to-BIM services will allow the client to accurately design the new pipe runs and install the new mixing station with confidence and ease. The 3D model will also be useful for any future projects that may be needed in the same area, as well as on-going operations and maintenance.

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3D laser scanning eliminates potentially costly guesswork with documentation. The client had a general idea of where the tank and piping was to be installed, but with accurate scans and models of the entire processing room, they possessed accurate documentation of the entire space. This eliminates the guesswork, allowing them to accurately plan a layout and tie into the existing systems avoiding clashes with existing piping and equipment.