The implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM) has revolutionized the construction industry and multidisciplinary engineering, enabling more accurate and efficient planning in all phases of the project. One of its most critical applications is interference detection, an essential process for identifying and correcting conflicts between disciplines prior to on-site execution, optimizing costs and minimizing risks.
However, poor interference detection can lead to cost overruns, delays and structural problems that compromise the viability of the project. In this article, we will explore the applicable regulations, associated risks, design best practices, key issues and the most common errors in the detection of interferences in BIM models.
Applicable Regulations
The use of BIM and its integration in construction projects is regulated by several international regulations that establish standards for the management and detection of interferences. Among the most relevant are:
International Standards
ISO 19650 - International standard for information management in BIM projects.
PAS 1192-2 - Collaborative management requirements for BIM projects.
EN 17412-1 - Definition of information levels for BIM modeling.
BS 8536-1 - Design and delivery of maintenance and operation oriented BIM projects.
BS 1192 - Information management in design and construction processes with BIM.
LOD (Level of Development) Specification - Defines the levels of detail required for each project phase.
IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) - Open standard for data exchange between BIM platforms.
Local Regulations (Chile and Latin America)
Chile BIM Plan (Ministry of Public Works) - Guidelines for the adoption of BIM in public projects.
Colombia BIM Standards (National Government of Colombia) - Application of BIM methodologies in public infrastructure.
BIM Standards of the Government of Mexico - Guidelines for government infrastructure projects.
These standards establish the basis for a correct management of BIM models and the detection of interferences in the multidisciplinary design.
Risks of Poor Interference Detection
Inadequate interference analysis in BIM models can generate risks that impact project efficiency and site safety. Among the main risks are:
1. Delays in Execution
The lack of early identification of interferences generates on-site modifications, extending construction times.
2. Increased Costs
Errors in the design can lead to unforeseen changes, generating additional costs in materials, labor and execution time.
3. Multidisciplinary Coordination Problems
Lack of integration between disciplines such as structures, electrical installations, HVAC and plumbing can lead to design conflicts that affect the constructability of the project.
4. Safety Risks
Unresolved interferences may compromise structural stability or the safe installation of critical systems.
5. Impact on Project Quality
Lack of accuracy in the BIM model can result in construction deficiencies that affect the durability and maintenance of the project.
Best Practices in BIM Interference Detection
To ensure an optimized design and reduce risks, it is essential to apply best practices in interference management within the BIM model:
1. Define a Standardized Interference Detection Process
Establish protocols for periodic review of the BIM model with specialized tools.
Implement interference nomenclature and categorization standards.
2. Use Specialized Software for Interference Detection
Navisworks Manage - Autodesk software for interference detection in BIM models.
Solibri Model Checker - BIM model validation tool.
BIM 360 Glue - Collaborative platform for interference identification and management in the cloud.
3. Implement Multidisciplinary Reviews in Early Phases
Conduct periodic reviews of the model at each stage of the project.
Encourage collaboration between disciplines to correct interferences at early stages.
4. Apply the Appropriate Level of Development (LOD) at Each Phase
Use the LOD 300-350 standard for interference reviews in the Basic Engineering stage.
Advance to LOD 400 in Detail Engineering for accurate detection prior to construction.
5. Manage and Prioritize Detected Interferences
Classify interferences into critical, moderate and minor to resolve them according to their impact on the project.
Use management platforms such as BIMcollab or Revizto to document and track corrections.
Key Aspects for Optimal Design
For effective BIM interference detection, it is essential to consider the following aspects:
Define clear BIM modeling criteria for each discipline.
Establish responsibilities and validation processes for each specialty.
Implement BIM coordination meetings with periodic reviews between design teams.
Ensure compatibility between BIM software used by different disciplines.
Train teams in the use of BIM tools to ensure efficient workflow.
Frequent Errors in Interference Detection
Despite the use of BIM, some errors can compromise the effectiveness of the interference detection process. Among the most common are:
Failure to Define a Multidisciplinary Coordination Strategy.
Lack of communication between architects, engineers and facility specialists.
Lack of BIM Modeling Standards.
Differences in the structure of the models hinder the automatic detection of interferences.
Use of Models with Different Levels of Development (LOD)
Mismatches in level of detail between disciplines lead to errors in review.
Ignoring Small Interferences
Minor errors can escalate and affect project constructability.
Performing Interference Detection at Late Stages
Failure to review the BIM model at early stages can result in high correction costs.
Conclusion
Interference detection in BIM models is a key process to ensure the efficiency and constructability of a project. Applying international standards, managing the associated risks and following best practices allows optimizing the design and minimizing costs and execution times.
At Acciomate Engineering & Projects, we have a team specialized in BIM modeling and interference management, ensuring accurate and highly coordinated designs.
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