ISAT's Seismic CAD Modeling & BIM

Utilize ISAT's 2D CAD Modeling, 3D CAD Modeling and BIM Services

With the advent of BIM/3D modeling, projects are now requiring that the MEP systems be fully modeled including their gravity supports and seismic bracing. ISAT’s internal BIM/3D modeling concentrates solely on integrating our seismic design into the project over all 3D models. Coordinating and placing system vertical supports and seismic restraints within tightly constrained work spaces are a daily function of the ISAT 3D team. These aren’t your everyday general commercial projects with a few pipes and ducts dispersed throughout the building; they are primarily highly congested hospitals or extremely complex manufacturing, pharmaceutical or biopharmaceutical facilities!

The IBC now requires all of the MEP system’s supports to be engineered (taking the seismic loads into account in addition to the gravity and thermal loads). It is now critical that an engineer familiar with seismic design be involved early in the process. In order to address these complex requirements, ISAT is relied upon by a growing number of project design teams to act as a “Seismic Engineer of Record” for the MEP systems. Our engineers and project managers’ work side by side with the MEP designers and contractors to identify everything required on the project in order to meet the seismic requirements of the building code and specifications. Our scope typically includes identifying, engineering and modeling the following: seismic bracing, flex connections, gravity supports, insert and anchor locations in the overhead decks, supplemental steel, floor supports, vibration isolation, riser supports, and wall mounted systems and supports. From attending weekly coordination meetings in person to attending online meetings, ISAT’s engineering staff works directly with your project team and should be considered an extension of your staff.

With the arrival of Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) and the implementation of Building Information Modeling (BIM), “the ways projects have been delivered in the past are no longer acceptable in today’s marketplace” (Tim Fry, President of Builders-Exchange). No question about it, the BIM/3D modeling freight train has arrived and we are happy to state that ISAT is on board!

No doubt about it, ISAT should be your defacto seismic solution and modeling partner for MEP systems! Contact ISAT to learn how we can help you on your next BIM/3D project.