Design assist ensures all project stakeholders have a clear, unified understanding of design intent so that early-stage designs can be modified to achieve optimal steelwork outcomes and minimize costly changes during fabrication and erection.

The engineering model (LOD 200) can be developed to approximately 80% complete before it is given to ATLAS STEEL DETAILING (ASD) to estimate steel prices and accelerate procurement. We can then develop an LOD 400 connected model that confirms factors like actual steelwork locations, clearances required, the types of welds and weld preparations to be used, and material thicknesses.

Unlike LOD 200 or 300 models, an LOD 400 model can actually be used for fabrication. Highly accurate erection plans can be generated from a LOD 400 model.

During our constructability assessments, we work through every aspect of framing plans to ensure that steelwork can be easily fabricated and erected. This locks in cost and scheduling certainty. All steel members are reviewed for profile, location, and elevation, and tagged in the model as approved so that highly accurate erection plans can be generated.

Just some of the elements we assess for constructability include:

• Bolt clearance
• Weld accessibility
• Tolerance checks
• Crane reach and type
• Beam connection type and clearance
• Erection schemes and temporary structures
• Modular construction

When these elements are assessed during pre-construction, cost-saving alterations can be made to the design before it’s too late (before purchasing steel). For instance, a member size can be increased, rather than introducing more material or additional connections.