Understand how applying BIM in civil engineering can transform your processes, reduce errors, and bring more efficiency to projects of any size.
The adoption of BIM in civil engineering It has been growing year after year, but it is still common for professionals and companies to have doubts about how to apply this methodology practically, in their daily work.
BIM is not just a 3D model; it's a shift in the way we think about, plan, and execute construction projects.
When well-structured, it helps reduce errors, integrate teams, and make projects more predictable and efficient.
In this article, you will understand How to apply BIM in engineering. civil engineering in an objective way and why it is essential to reduce errors that compromise deadlines, costs and performance.
What changes in civil engineering with BIM?
First of all, it's important to emphasize: BIM is not software.. It is a methodology that integrates all stages of the project — from planning to execution, with shared data and intelligent digital models.
This means:
- More detailed and coordinated projects;
- Interferences between disciplines detected before construction began;
- More precise schedules (using BIM 4D);
- More realistic budgets (using 5D BIM);
- Improved communication between the office, the construction site, and the client.
What flaws does BIM help to reduce?
The use of BIM in civil engineering It helps to avoid problems that are still common in many projects:
- Rework on the construction site because of incompatible projects;
- Sizing errors in structures and foundations;
- Waste of materials due to a lack of detailed planning;
- Delays in construction due to inaccurate or poorly communicated information;
- Difficulty in keeping up with the actual progress of the construction;
With BIM, these flaws can be identified and corrected. before execution.
How to apply BIM?
Here are the main steps to efficiently apply BIM in civil engineering, whether in public or private projects:
1. Define the project's BIM strategy.
Before modeling, it is necessary to understand the objectives of BIM in that project.
- Will there be coordination between subjects?
- Will you be using 4D and 5D BIM?
- Who will be responsible for what?
This alignment prevents rework and ensures that everyone speaks the same language.
2. Create a BEP (BIM Execution Plan)
O BEP It organizes the rules of the game: standards, responsibilities, delivery formats, and tools used.
It is the document that provides clarity for everyone involved and facilitates project management.
3. Model with a standard and pay attention to the use of information.
The model must contain relevant data for the subsequent phases of the project. For example: a beam needs to have volume, material, level, and identifier, not just shape.
4. Coordinate disciplines to avoid interference.
By using tools like Navisworks, you can identify collisions between structures, installations, foundations, etc.
This process avoids errors that would only be noticed during construction..
5. Integrate the schedule (BIM 4D) and budget (BIM 5D)
BIM allows the construction schedule to be linked to the model, visualizing the execution over time.
The same applies to costs, with quantities extracted directly from the model.
6. Train the team and involve all departments.
The application of BIM in civil engineering requires internal culture. There's no point in having a good model if those who execute the work don't have access to or understanding of the process.
Training, integration, and monitoring are key to the success of the methodology.
BIM in civil engineering is becoming increasingly necessary.
Apply the BIM in civil engineering It is an increasingly necessary path for companies seeking efficiency, predictability, and quality in their projects.
It's about change the way the project is conceived, executed and delivered.
With methodology, attentive listening, and technical support, BIM becomes essential.
At Cadbim, we help companies implement BIM in a clear, structured way that is compatible with their reality.
Want to take the next step? Talk to Cadbim See how #JeitoCadbim can help your company evolve with BIM.