News&Press, Use Case
02/19/23
For many years, industrial plant design has been a complex and challenging field, with designers facing numerous challenges in managing large amounts of data, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and tracking design changes. However, the emergence of digitalization has brought about significant changes in the way industrial plant design is carried out, resulting in improved processes, tools, and content that can provide a positive return on investment (ROI) and reduce total cost of ownership (TCO).
Digitalization refers to the use of digital technologies to transform traditional processes, content, and tools used in various industries. In industrial plant design, digitalization has led to significant improvements in the design and operation of plants, and in the management of teams and processes.
In the early stages of digitalization, the main focus was on using computers to automate routine tasks and improve data management. The introduction of computer-aided design (CAD) tools in the 1980s allowed designers to create 2D and 3D drawings, enabling more accurate designs and better communication between stakeholders. However, these early CAD tools were limited in their capabilities and were not integrated with other plant design software.
As digitalization has evolved, new tools and technologies have emerged that have led to significant improvements in plant design. The integration of geographic information systems (GIS), building information modeling (BIM), and product lifecycle management (PLM) systems has facilitated communication, collaboration, and interoperability among different stakeholders in plant design, which can lead to cost savings, time savings, and more efficient design processes.
However, the digitalization of industrial plant design has not only involved changes in processes, content, and tools, but also in people management. Digitalization has required designers and engineers to acquire new skills, adapt to new ways of working, and engage in continuous learning. In addition, it has required changes in leadership and culture to ensure that everyone in the organization is aligned with the digitalization strategy.
In this blog post, we will explore how multi-dimensional GIS and BIM, including ISO 19650 standards, can enhance plant design through a PLM approach, and how this can contribute to a positive ROI and reduce TCO. We will discuss the different dimensions of plant design that can be enhanced using GIS and BIM, including 1D lists and datasheets, 2D schematics and drawings, 3D primitive models and laser scans, 4D time, 5D cost, and 6D sustainability. We will also discuss how a PLM approach can enhance the use of GIS and BIM in plant design and the benefits of using PLM tools and methodologies.
By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of the historical aspects of digitalization in industrial plant design and how it has transformed the way plant design is carried out, resulting in a positive ROI and lower TCO.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) are two digital tools that are increasingly being used in plant design to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance collaboration. Here’s a closer look at each tool and how it is being used in industrial plant design.
GIS is a computer-based system that allows users to capture, store, manipulate, analyze, and present spatial or geographic data. GIS can be used for a wide range of applications, including mapping, urban planning, environmental monitoring, and natural resource management. In plant design, GIS can be used to visualize and analyze the location and distribution of assets, as well as to track changes over time.
The digitalization of GIS processes has allowed industrial plant designers to collect and analyze data in real-time, enabling them to make more informed decisions and reduce project risks. For example, a power company might use GIS to analyze the best location for a new power plant based on factors such as access to transmission lines, proximity to fuel sources, and environmental impact. This data can be analyzed and visualized in real-time, allowing the company to make informed decisions quickly and efficiently.
BIM is a digital representation of physical and functional characteristics of a building or structure. It is used for design, construction, and operation of a building or structure. BIM can be used to create detailed 3D models of building components, including walls, floors, roofs, and mechanical systems. In plant design, BIM can be used to improve collaboration, reduce errors and rework, and optimize construction schedules.
Digitalization of BIM processes has transformed the way industrial plant designers plan and execute their projects. For example, a chemical plant might use BIM to design and simulate a new process before construction begins. This allows the plant designers to identify potential problems and make changes before construction begins, reducing the risk of costly errors and rework. BIM can also be used to create detailed 3D models of plant equipment and components, which can be used to optimize plant layout and reduce construction schedules.
Digitalization of Processes, Content, Tools, and People Change Management
Digitalization of GIS and BIM processes involves the implementation of digital tools and software that streamline the collection, analysis, and presentation of data. The digitalization of content involves the conversion of paper-based drawings and specifications into digital formats that can be accessed and edited electronically. The digitalization of tools involves the implementation of software and hardware tools that enable plant designers to work more efficiently, including cloud-based collaboration tools, 3D scanners, and augmented reality tools. The digitalization of people change management involves the training and development of staff to ensure that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively with these digital tools.
For example, digitalization of processes in GIS and BIM can enable plant designers to access real-time data about equipment and processes, reducing the risk of errors and delays. The digitalization of content can make it easier to share and collaborate on design files, reducing the need for paper-based drawings and specifications. The digitalization of tools can enable plant designers to work more efficiently and accurately, using tools such as 3D scanners to capture accurate measurements of plant components. Finally, the digitalization of people change management can help ensure that staff are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively with these digital tools, reducing the risk of errors and delays.
In conclusion, the implementation of GIS and BIM in plant design has transformed the way industrial plant designers plan and execute their projects. The digitalization of GIS and BIM processes, content, tools, and people change management has enabled plant designers to access real-time data, work more efficiently and accurately, and reduce the risk of errors and delays.
Moreover, the return on investment (ROI) of GIS and BIM implementation can be significant, with studies showing up to 15% reduction in total cost of ownership (TCO) in industrial plant design. This ROI is driven by improved collaboration, reduced rework, and optimized construction schedules, resulting in lower costs and increased efficiency.
By adopting GIS and BIM, industrial plant designers can gain a competitive advantage by delivering high-quality projects more efficiently and at lower cost. As a result, the adoption of GIS and BIM in plant design is likely to continue to grow, driven by the need for increased efficiency, lower costs, and improved collaboration.
The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has developed the ISO 19650 family of standards for building and construction information modeling (BIM). These standards provide a framework for the development, implementation, and management of BIM processes and tools in plant design. In this post, we will focus on Chapter 3 of ISO 19650 and how it can be used to enhance plant design through digitalization.
Digitalization is the process of using digital technologies to transform traditional business processes and workflows. In plant design, digitalization involves the adoption of BIM processes and tools to create a digital representation of the plant and its systems. The use of digital technologies can help optimize plant design and improve the efficiency of industrial processes.
ISO 19650 standards can facilitate the digitalization of plant design by providing a common language and framework for BIM processes and tools. Chapter 3 of the standards focuses on the process of developing a BIM execution plan (BEP). A BEP is a comprehensive document that outlines the procedures, protocols, and workflows for using BIM processes and tools in plant design.
The BEP can be used to manage digital content, processes, tools, and people change management. By using the BEP as a guide, plant designers can ensure that they are using BIM processes and tools in a consistent and efficient manner.
One of the benefits of using the BEP is improved collaboration among different stakeholders in plant design. For example, architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers can use the BEP to ensure that they are using the same BIM processes and tools. This can help avoid errors and rework, and improve the overall quality of the plant design.
Another benefit of using the BEP is improved data management. The BEP can be used to define the data requirements for plant design, including the format, level of detail, and accuracy of the data. By defining data requirements in advance, plant designers can ensure that the data is consistent and accurate throughout the plant design process.
Finally, the BEP can be used to manage the change management process that occurs when adopting new BIM processes and tools. Plant designers can use the BEP to define the procedures for testing, evaluating, and implementing new BIM processes and tools. This can help minimize the disruption that can occur during the adoption of new technologies.
In addition to facilitating the digitalization of new plant designs, the ISO 19650 standards can also be used to improve the efficiency and accuracy of plant modifications and renovations. Laser scanning is one technology that can be used to create a digital model of an existing plant, which can then be used to plan modifications and renovations.
Laser scanning involves using a laser to measure the distance and shape of objects within a space. The data collected by the laser is used to create a point cloud, which can be converted into a 3D digital model. The 3D model can then be used to create 2D drawings, schematics, and other documentation for plant modifications and renovations.
ISO 19650 standards provide guidelines for the use of laser scanning in plant design. Chapter 2 of the standards provides guidance on data requirements and quality control for laser scanning. This includes specifying the accuracy and resolution of the laser scanning data, as well as the required level of detail for the final digital model.
One of the benefits of using laser scanning in plant design is improved accuracy and efficiency. Laser scanning can capture detailed measurements of the existing plant, allowing for more accurate and precise modifications and renovations. In addition, laser scanning can be completed much more quickly than traditional measurement methods, reducing the time required for data collection.
Another benefit of using laser scanning is improved safety. Laser scanning can be performed remotely, reducing the need for workers to enter hazardous areas to collect measurements. This can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
By using laser scanning to create a digital model of an existing plant, plant designers can also improve collaboration among different stakeholders. The 3D model can be shared with architects, engineers, contractors, and facility managers, allowing them to collaborate on plant modifications and renovations in a more efficient and effective manner.
In conclusion, laser scanning is a powerful technology that can be used to improve the efficiency and accuracy of plant modifications and renovations. The ISO 19650 standards provide guidance on the use of laser scanning in plant design, including data requirements and quality control. By using laser scanning to create a digital model of an existing plant, plant designers can improve accuracy, efficiency, safety, and collaboration, resulting in a more effective and efficient plant modification and renovation process.
In conclusion, the ISO 19650 standards provide a valuable framework for the digitalization of plant design through the use of BIM processes and tools. Chapter 3 of the standards highlights the importance of developing a comprehensive BIM execution plan (BEP) to manage digital content, processes, tools, and people change management.
The BEP can facilitate improved collaboration, data management, and change management in plant design, resulting in a more efficient and effective process. Additionally, the adoption of laser scanning technology can further enhance the benefits of digitalization in plant design. Laser scanning can provide highly accurate and detailed data about existing plant structures and systems, which can be used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of the plant design process.
By leveraging the power of BIM processes and tools, and incorporating laser scanning technology, plant designers can create highly detailed and accurate digital models of plant structures and systems. These models can be used to optimize plant design and improve the efficiency of industrial processes. In a highly competitive industry, the adoption of BIM processes, tools, and laser scanning technology can provide a significant advantage to plant designers who are looking to enhance their plant design capabilities.
Plant design in industrial engineering can be a complex and challenging process, requiring collaboration among various stakeholders and a high degree of precision to ensure that designs meet safety and regulatory standards. To address these challenges, many industrial plant designers have turned to multi-dimensional geographic information systems (GIS) and building information modeling (BIM) tools that include ISO 19650 standards. These tools provide a range of features and benefits, including improved accuracy, better communication, and enhanced efficiency.
In this blog post, we’ll explore how multi-dimensional GIS and BIM can be used to optimize plant design, with a particular focus on the different dimensions that can be enhanced using examples and considering digitalization including processes, content, tools, and people change management.
The first dimension that can be enhanced using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM is 1D lists and datasheets. This dimension includes data related to plant design such as equipment lists, material lists, and process flow diagrams. With GIS and BIM tools, this data can be centralized, standardized, and easily shared among stakeholders. For example, in a chemical plant design, the GIS and BIM tool can automatically generate a list of equipment required for a certain process, including the dimensions and specifications of each piece of equipment. This not only reduces the potential for errors but also speeds up the design process.
The second dimension that can be enhanced using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM is 2D schematics and drawings. This dimension includes detailed schematics, plans, and diagrams of plant equipment and processes. With GIS and BIM tools, these drawings can be more accurate and detailed than traditional paper-based drawings, and can be easily shared among stakeholders. For example, a manufacturer can use a BIM tool to create a 2D drawing of a conveyor belt system, including the dimensions and placement of each component. This can help stakeholders visualize the system before it is built and identify any potential issues before construction begins.
The third dimension that can be enhanced using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM is 3D primitive models and laser scans. This dimension includes 3D models of plant equipment and processes, which can be created using laser scanning technology. With GIS and BIM tools, these models can be used to simulate different scenarios and identify potential issues before construction begins. For example, a power plant designer can use a BIM tool to create a 3D model of the plant’s cooling system, including the placement and dimensions of each component. This can help identify potential issues with the system, such as insufficient cooling capacity or inefficient placement of components.
The fourth dimension that can be enhanced using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM is 4D time. This dimension includes the ability to simulate the construction and operation of a plant over time. With GIS and BIM tools, designers can create detailed schedules and timelines for construction and maintenance, as well as simulate the plant’s performance over time. For example, a refinery designer can use a BIM tool to create a timeline for the construction of the plant and simulate the plant’s operation over a 10-year period. This can help identify potential maintenance issues and plan for future upgrades.
The fifth dimension that can be enhanced using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM is 5D cost. This dimension includes the ability to accurately estimate the cost of a plant design, including material costs, labor costs, and maintenance costs. With GIS and BIM tools, designers can create detailed cost estimates for different scenarios and identify potential cost savings. For example, a refinery designer can use a BIM tool to create a cost estimate for a new process design, including the cost of raw materials, labor, and maintenance. The tool can then be used to simulate the cost of the process over time and identify potential cost savings, such as optimizing material usage or reducing labor costs.
The final dimension that can be enhanced using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM is 6D sustainability and PLM approach. This dimension includes the ability to design plants with sustainability in mind, including environmental and social impacts. With GIS and BIM tools, designers can create detailed simulations of the plant’s environmental impact and identify opportunities for sustainability improvements. For example, a food processing plant designer can use a BIM tool to create a simulation of the plant’s energy usage and identify potential energy savings, such as the use of renewable energy sources or more efficient equipment.
To fully leverage the benefits of multi-dimensional GIS and BIM tools, it’s important to have a comprehensive digitalization strategy that includes processes, content, tools, and people change management. This means that not only should the technology be in place, but also the processes, workflows, and collaboration between stakeholders need to be optimized for maximum efficiency. In addition, training and support for the tools and processes are critical to ensure that everyone involved in the plant design process is able to fully leverage the benefits of these tools.
In conclusion, multi-dimensional GIS and BIM tools offer a wealth of benefits for industrial plant designers. With the ability to create detailed simulations and models of plant designs, designers can optimize performance, reduce costs, and ensure sustainability. Additionally, the use of laser scanning technology can provide accurate and detailed data on existing plants, allowing for efficient and effective renovations and upgrades.
In fact, the ROI on TCO for new builds using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM tools has been estimated to be up to 15%, while the ROI on TCO for renovations and upgrades using laser scanning can be even higher. These tools can help industrial plant designers save time and money, while also improving the accuracy and quality of their designs.
To fully leverage the benefits of multi-dimensional GIS and BIM tools, it’s important to have a comprehensive digitalization strategy in place that includes processes, content, tools, and people change management. With the right strategy, industrial plant designers can unlock the full potential of these tools and drive success in their designs.
The use of GIS and BIM tools can help enhance plant design by providing multi-dimensional data that can optimize processes, improve decision-making, and reduce costs. However, in order to fully realize these benefits, it is essential to use a PLM (product lifecycle management) approach.
PLM tools and methodologies can help industrial plant designers manage the entire lifecycle of a product, from conception to retirement. This approach provides a framework for collaboration, data management, and decision-making that can help optimize plant design and improve efficiency.
To better understand the importance of a PLM approach in plant design, let’s use an analogy. Consider a football team. In order to win games, a team needs to have a clear strategy, good communication, and well-coordinated teamwork. Each player has a specific role to play, and they need to work together to achieve a common goal. Similarly, in plant design, a PLM approach provides a clear strategy for design and development, good communication between stakeholders, and well-coordinated teamwork to achieve optimal results.
Now let’s consider how digitalization impacts a PLM approach in plant design. Digitalization involves the use of digital tools and technologies to enhance business processes, content, and people change management. For example, in plant design, digitalization may involve the use of digital tools for laser scanning, 3D modeling, and cost estimation. It may also involve the creation of digital content such as specifications, drawings, and datasheets. Finally, it may involve people change management, such as training employees on how to use new digital tools and adapting to new processes and workflows.
Using a PLM approach in conjunction with digitalization can help industrial plant designers streamline their processes, reduce errors, and improve collaboration. PLM tools such as CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and project management software can help designers manage the entire lifecycle of a product, from conception to retirement. These tools can help manage data, facilitate collaboration, and streamline processes. In addition, digitalization can provide the data needed to support decision-making, optimize processes, and reduce costs.
One example of the benefits of using a PLM approach in conjunction with digitalization is the use of digital twins. A digital twin is a virtual model of a physical object, such as a plant or machine. The digital twin can be used to simulate different scenarios and predict the performance of the physical object. By using a digital twin, designers can optimize the design of a plant and identify potential issues before construction begins. This can help reduce errors, optimize processes, and reduce costs.
In order to fully realize the benefits of a PLM approach in plant design, it is essential to consider people change management. This involves training employees on how to use new digital tools and adapting to new processes and workflows. It may also involve creating a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. By involving all stakeholders in the design process, from engineers to contractors to end-users, a PLM approach can help ensure that the final product meets the needs of all stakeholders and is optimized for performance and efficiency.
In conclusion, the use of a PLM approach in conjunction with digitalization tools can provide numerous benefits for industrial plant designers. By managing the entire lifecycle of a product and optimizing processes, plant design can become more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable. A PLM approach can help designers make more informed decisions, reduce errors, and improve collaboration. By involving all stakeholders in the design process and creating a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement, designers can create products that are optimized for performance and efficiency.
Moreover, by considering sustainability throughout the product lifecycle, designers can ensure that the final product is not only optimized for efficiency, but also minimizes its environmental impact. This can include reducing material waste, optimizing energy consumption, and using eco-friendly materials. A PLM approach that considers sustainability can help industrial plant designers create products that meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
Reducing material waste is a critical aspect of sustainable plant design. With up to 90% of industrial plant waste consisting of steel and concrete, it’s clear that these materials require special attention when it comes to sustainability. Not only is the production of steel and concrete energy-intensive, but they also generate high levels of greenhouse gas emissions, including CO2.
One way that a PLM approach can help reduce material waste is by optimizing the use of steel and concrete throughout the entire plant design process. By analyzing and modeling the entire lifecycle of these materials, designers can identify areas where material waste can be minimized, while also reducing the overall carbon footprint of the plant.
For example, a PLM approach can enable designers to model and simulate the use of steel and concrete in different plant configurations, allowing them to identify areas where materials can be optimized for maximum efficiency. By using laser scanning and 3D modeling tools, designers can also identify opportunities to reuse or repurpose materials that would otherwise go to waste.
Additionally, a PLM approach can also help reduce the overall carbon footprint of the plant by identifying alternative, eco-friendly materials that can be used instead of steel and concrete. By using a lifecycle analysis tool, designers can assess the environmental impact of different materials throughout their entire lifecycle, allowing them to choose materials that are not only sustainable but also meet the specific needs of the plant.
In summary, a PLM approach can help reduce material waste in industrial plant design by optimizing the use of steel and concrete, identifying opportunities for reuse and repurposing, and exploring alternative, eco-friendly materials. By reducing material waste, designers can not only minimize the carbon footprint of the plant but also lower the overall costs of materials, making sustainable plant design a win-win for both the environment and the bottom line.
In conclusion, we can see that the use of multi-dimensional GIS and BIM, including ISO 19650 standards, and a PLM approach can enhance plant design in many ways. However, achieving these benefits requires a significant digital transformation effort that involves processes, content, tools, and people change management.
One significant benefit of using multi-dimensional GIS and BIM, including laser scanning, is the ability to conduct reserve engineering on existing plant designs. Laser scanning provides a non-invasive, accurate method for capturing as-built data, which can be used to create 3D models and schematics. This can be particularly beneficial for retrofitting and refurbishing existing plants.
Furthermore, studies have shown that implementing these digital tools and processes can result in up to a 15% return on investment on total cost of ownership for new build plant designs. This includes up to 80% reduction in project data handover time, leading to significant time and cost savings.
Reducing material waste is a critical aspect of sustainable plant design. With up to 90% of industrial plant waste consisting of steel and concrete, the use of digital tools and processes can help minimize waste through more efficient material usage and construction methods. Additionally, with a focus on sustainability, these tools and processes can help reduce total energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and carbon dioxide emissions associated with plant design and construction.
Ultimately, achieving the benefits of multi-dimensional GIS and BIM, including ISO 19650 standards, and a PLM approach requires a holistic digital transformation effort that includes careful planning and execution of processes, content management, tool implementation, and people change management. By embracing this transformation, industrial plant designers can unlock the full potential of these technologies and optimize their industrial processes for the future.
Know more…
About BIM The ISO 19650 series of standards
The ISO 19650 series of standards sources outlines the principles and requirements for information management using Building Information Modeling (BIM) throughout the entire lifecycle of a built asset.
ISO 19650-1 [1] provides recommendations for defining an information management framework that includes exchange, recording, version control, and organization for all actors involved in the lifecycle of a built asset, from strategic planning to the end of life. It can be adapted to assets or projects of various scales and complexities to ensure flexibility and versatility.
ISO 19650-2 [2] and ISO 19650-3 [3] specify the requirements for information management during the realization and operation phases of assets, respectively, using BIM. These standards can be applied to all types of assets and organizations regardless of their market strategies and sizes.
ISO 19650-4 [4] defines the requirements for information exchange using BIM, including the identification of the information required for exchange, its format, and its delivery method.
Lastly, ISO 19650-5 [5] focuses on the principles and requirements for information management that prioritize security when using BIM, from creating a culture and mindset of appropriate security to monitoring and verifying compliance.
In summary, the ISO 19650 series of standards provides guidelines for information management using BIM in the entire lifecycle of built assets, ensuring flexibility and versatility in its application. These standards apply to all types and sizes of assets and organizations regardless of their market strategies. Additionally, ISO 19650-5 emphasizes the importance of security in the use of BIM.
WHAT NEXT
HOW CFIHOS DATA MODEL CAN ENHANCE PLANT DESIGN
Industrial plant design involves the creation and management of complex systems that require accurate and consistent data across various stages of the plant’s life cycle. However, managing this data can be challenging, particularly when it comes to ensuring data quality, interoperability, and consistency.
To address these challenges, the Construction and Fabrication Industry Harmonization Ontology Standard (CFIHOS) was developed as a data model for the industrial plant design industry. CFIHOS is a comprehensive data model that provides a standardized approach to data management, allowing industrial plant designers to ensure data quality and consistency throughout the plant’s life cycle.
In this blog post, we will explore how CFIHOS data model can enhance plant design. We will discuss the key features of CFIHOS and explain how it can be used to improve data management and data sharing in industrial plant design. We will also provide examples of how CFIHOS has been used in the industry and the benefits it has provided to plant designers.
