Table of Contents

Key takeaways

A BIM MEP project starts with a BEP defining goals, naming rules and required LOD before modeling begins.
Architectural and structural models get linked in on a shared coordinate system before MEP work starts.
MEP modeling covers ductwork, cable trays, conduits and piping, routed within required clearances.
Federated models go through clash detection before shop drawings and schedules get produced.
Revit leads modeling, Navisworks and Revizto handle coordination, and ACC or Trimble Connect manage collaboration.

To start a BIM MEP project for a new building, you need the project requirements. You need to define its BIM standards, collaboration process, and model requirements before detailed 3D modeling begins. Let’s understand in a bit more detail.

Phase 1: BIM MEP project workflow

1. Define project requirements and prepare the BEP

Set the project goals, file naming rules, coordinate systems, and required Level of Development (LOD) for MEP elements. Document these requirements in the BIM Execution Plan (BEP).

2. Set up the Common Data Environment

Create a secure Common Data Environment (CDE). Architectural, structural, and MEP teams can share, access, review, and manage the latest project information in here.

3. Link the architectural and structural models

Start with the approved architectural and structural models. Link them into the MEP project and use a shared coordinate system so all discipline models occupy the correct position.

4. Set up the MEP project template

Configure the project with the correct units, levels, grids, parameters, and system settings. Set up systems such as supply air, sanitary piping, and electrical circuits according to project requirements.

5. Model the MEP systems

Create and route the project’s HVAC ductwork, cable trays, conduits, and plumbing pipes. Follow the required spatial allowances, service clearances, and project standards while modeling.

6. Federate the models and run clash detection

Combine the architectural, structural, and MEP models in a coordination environment. Run clash detection to identify hard clashes and other spatial conflicts between building elements and MEP systems.

7. Create project deliverables

Once the models are coordinated, use them to produce shop drawings, coordination sections, schedules, and BOQs and other required project deliverables.

Phase 2: Recommended BIM MEP tools

Model authoring

These tools are used to create MEP systems and project models:

Autodesk Revit handles most multidisciplinary BIM modeling work, along with parametric families and model-based documentation.
MagiCAD sits on top of Revit as a plugin. Adds mechanical calculations and manufacturer product libraries that Revit doesn’t handle on its own.
Bentley OpenBuildings Designer tends to show up on larger institutional, industrial and infrastructure-heavy projects.

Coordination and clash detection

These tools are used to review models together and identify coordination issues:

Autodesk Navisworks Manage: Used for clash detection and 4D construction sequencing.
Revizto: A cloud-based coordination platform for issue tracking and communication between project teams.

Common Data Environment

These platforms are used for project collaboration and information management:

Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Supports cloud-based project collaboration, design reviews, and data management.
Procore and Trimble Connect: Alternative platforms for document control, field management, and model viewing.

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