ArcelorMittal becomes first steelmaker to make portfolio of steels for construction BIM-ready
Building information modelling (BIM) digitally integrates the aesthetic design and technical details of a construction project into one information package. BIM gives everyone involved in the construction process a digital prototype of the building before it is built.
And ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products is the first steelmaker in the world to provide BIM details for our extensive portfolio of aesthetic products for construction.
All about BIM
What is BIM ?
BIMs follow the same model used to design aircraft and ships, where all relevant information is integrated into a single tool. Building owners, government agencies, engineers, and end users can all see how the construction will look and be utilised. Design changes can be incorporated at a very early stage of the project which reduces cost and the chance of delays.
The use of BIM has been growing rapidly since it was first adopted in North America just over ten years ago. Today, around one-third of all professionals involved in the construction sector (such as architects, engineers, and contractors) are using BIM. In the United States, over half of all building contractors use BIM.
Every construction material used in the completion of the building is described in a BIM ‘object’. ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products is now developing BIM objects for every one of our steel products used in construction, making us the first steelmaker in the world to do so.
Everyone involved in the construction process can contribute BIM objects to create a 3D model of the building
What does a BIM object contain?
Each object typically contains:
- Technical data about the material and a set of design-software files
- 3D data (indicating texture) so that every steel product for construction can be modelled in virtual reality software
- Product application details such as a case study.
Technical data might include weight per square metre or the solar effect of the aesthetics. Details such as steel grade, dimensions, corrosion resistance, and reaction to a fire are also included. Files will be available in various formats to be accessed by the different available softwares (Autocad, Revit …), and will allow to design from the first sketches to the most complex 3D renders.
Eventually it will be possible to combine BIM objects from our customers with those from ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products. This will put full building solutions at the disposal of engineers and architects.
On top of the objects, ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products will make available:
- Descriptions of the contents of the downloadable files and specific instructions for Revit users.
- A series of examples of finalised 3D renders for different types of buildings.
- Small 3D videos of building components such as cassettes and profiles made of ArcelorMittal steel.
The advantages of BIM
BIM allows changes to be identified and implemented earlier, reducing cost and delays.
As the information is virtual, changes to one component of the building are automatically reflected across the BIM. For example, if the size of the doors is changed, the BIM updates to show the new aesthetics and performance. Safety is also enhanced as materials can be checked to ensure they meet relevant fire or security standards.
BIM allows changes to be identified and implemented earlier, reducing cost and delays
In March 2017, ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products will publish BIM objects corresponding to various colours and patterns of 6 flat steels for construction. BIM objects for other construction products will be progressively added as they are finalised.
Objects will be published through Europe’s construction website Constructalia, and the ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Product’s catalogue. It is expected to take up to 18 months for all objects to be completed.
ArcelorMittal Europe – Flat Products is publishing these first BIM objects to gather feedback from players in the construction sector. This feedback will help to ensure we are providing the right type of information in a format that can be easily understood and utilised.
