Scan-to-BIM for G30 Project Phases I & II: Boiler & Chiller Plant Room

Location Washington, DC, USA

Year October 2017 - February 2018

Key Project Details
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Project Area:10,000 sq. ft.

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Key Project Details
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Project Area:10,000 sq. ft.

Architect:Omniplan

Engineer:8 Engineers

Contractor(S):Shapiro & Duncan, Inc.

Owner:NA

Trades Covered:Architecture, Structure, Plumbing, Mechanical Piping

LOD:300

Software:Revit 2017, Navisworks 2017, Autodesk ReCap 360, Newforma

Verticals:  3D Model Creation

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The G30 Project Phase I & II - Boiler & Chiller Plant Room
Chiller Plant Model From Scan
Chiller Plant 3D Model From Scan

Chiller Plant Room Project Overview

The G30 Project comprised Phase I and II Boiler and Chiller Plant Rooms, each located on a single level in Washington, D.C., USA. Following detailed laser scanning by Shapiro & Duncan for the renovation works, Pinnacle utilized RCS and RCP scan files to develop Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, and Plumbing 3D models.

Using its Scan to BIM Services, Pinnacle converted the captured scan data into coordinated models, completing detailed service modeling for both boiler and chiller room phases. This work supported the renovation and expansion planning of the existing facility.

Scope of As-Built Scan-to-BIM Services

The scope of work included:

  • •3D model creation of all elements based on point cloud data.
  • •Point cloud scan-to-BIM modeling for two mechanical rooms, incorporating architectural and MEP elements with accurate locations and specifications based on the provided scan data.
  • •Architecture: 3D modeling of walls, doors, and windows.
  • •Structure: 3D BIM modeling of columns, beams, slabs, equipment pads, and walls.
  • •Plumbing: 3D BIM modeling of pipes, pipe fittings, valves, and accessories.
  • •Mechanical: 3D BIM modeling of ducts, pipes, fittings, valves, accessories, and mechanical equipment.

Project Specialty

Point Cloud to BIM Conversion played a critical role in supporting the renovation of the existing facility. Pinnacle developed coordinated 3D models across all disciplines by accurately modeling the required elements from the scan data.

The project involved MEP Scan-to-BIM Modeling alongside architectural and structural modeling to create detailed representations of existing building elements and services. This approach helped maintain model accuracy and improve interdisciplinary coordination.

Key Project Details

Project Area:10,000 sq. ft.

Architect:Omniplan

Engineer:8 Engineers

Contractor(s):Shapiro & Duncan, Inc.

Owner:NA

LOD:300

Trades Covered:Architecture, Structure, Plumbing, Mechanical Piping

Software:Revit 2017, Navisworks 2017, Autodesk ReCap 360, Newforma

Verticals:  3D Model Creation

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Challenges & Solutions for the Scan-to-BIM Modeling Project

1. Input Inconsistencies—Missing Scan Data

Challenge: Scan data was unavailable in certain areas, resulting in inconsistencies in the project inputs.

Solution: Pinnacle modeled the missing elements using documented assumptions. The team also tracked these assumptions through an assumption log with corresponding element IDs.

2. Obstructed Wall Locations

Challenge: Wall locations were not clearly visible due to obstructions from tanks and equipment.

Solution: The team modeled wall alignments using the nearest visible references in the scan data.

3. Unclear Concrete Pad Dimensions

Challenge: The concrete pad beneath the boiler equipment was not clearly identifiable in the scan.

Solution: Pinnacle assumed a width of 1 foot for the pad while maintaining less than 1-inch deviation between the model and scan data.

Pinnacle's Value Addition

Pinnacle delivered several benefits through its modeling and coordination expertise:

  • Reviewed interdisciplinary coordination using scan data to identify and address potential conflicts early in the process.
  • Developed accurate 3D models of all trades from scan data, supporting reliable renovation and expansion planning while ensuring quality assurance.
  • Improved transparency and streamlined stakeholder communication, enabling faster and more informed decision-making during the renovation and extension phases.
  • Applied expertise relevant to As-Built BIM Modeling Services to support accurate representation of existing facility conditions for renovation planning.

Client's Feedback

sam tupp
Don

Preconstruction Specialist

sam tupp
double quotes

Thank you for the Revit model. We have determined that we will be using our contractor's version of the structural. They are a true as-built.

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