With the continuous progress of the urbanization process and the continuous improvement of

living standards, the level of architectural design must be improved to meet the communities’ growing

demands for building quality and specially to improve the overall quality of water supply works.

Talk to those who spend their days thinking about 3D modelling and digital design in the water industry and you enter a parallel universe. BIM, or Building Information Modelling is a world of interactive cloud-based models, virtual reality headsets, immersive design projections that you can walk through and lasers that can scan, map and recreate a building or a piece of equipment.

BIM can be used very effectively for designing, constructing, and managing water networks. It is a digital representation of the physical and functional characteristics of a facility, enabling collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders involved in the project.

It is a fact that there is a lack of decision-making tools for water efficiency design and construction to maximize project benefits and water conservation. An increasing number of research studies indicates that this technology can enhance the cooperation, improve work efficiency and conduct simulation and analysis of sustainability performance in building projects.

Moreover, the technical complexity of water projects and the intensity of operations and asset management functions at completed facilities all suggest that BIM offers great advantages for this sector.

Here are some ways that BIM can be applied to water networks:

• Design and Visualization: BIM software allows engineers to create 3D models of water networks, including pipes, pumps, valves, and other components. These models provide a visual representation of the network, allowing designers to optimize the layout, identify clashes, and simulate the flow of water. Through 4D modelling, stakeholders can also model and visualize forecasted project progress, across the project timeline. 

 

• Clash Detection: BIM enables clash detection by integrating various disciplines such as architecture, structure, and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing). With water networks, clash detection helps identify clashes between pipes, structural elements, and other building systems, avoiding conflicts during construction.

 

• Performance Analysis: BIM tools can simulate the performance of water networks by running hydraulic analysis. Engineers can evaluate the flow rates, pressure levels, and system behavior under different operating conditions. This analysis helps optimize the network design, ensure efficient water distribution, and allows the detection of potential issues, such as low pressure zones or excessive flow velocities, well in advance of construction activities on site.

 

• Cost Estimation and Material take-off: BIM software can generate accurate quantity takeoffs from the 3D models, enabling more precise cost estimations for water network projects. This information helps project stakeholders in budgeting, material procurement, and resource planning.

 

• Collaboration and Coordination: it facilitates collaboration among different project participants, including architects, engineers, contractors, and owners. The shared 3D model allows for real-time collaboration, reducing errors and miscommunication. Stakeholders can also access and update relevant information, such as design changes or as-built data, throughout the project lifecycle.

 

• Asset Management: it can be used for ongoing maintenance and management of water networks. By incorporating asset data such as pipe specifications, installation dates, and maintenance history into the model, facility managers can track and plan maintenance activities more effectively. This helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of the water network.

 

Overall, applying BIM to water networks enhances the design, construction, and operation phases, leading to improved efficiency, reduced errors, and cost savings. It promotes collaboration, data sharing, and better decision-making throughout the lifecycle of water infrastructure projects.

 

By Mazen Bachir, ACCIONA Middle East EPC Director, Water Solutions.