Metal Sales Launches BIM Design Compatibility

LOUISVILLE, KY…Metal Sales Manufacturing Corporation has embraced the next evolution in architectural design by modeling its structural standing seam panels to work with BIM three-dimensional technology.

As anyone familiar with construction knows, the more up-to-date and accessible the information, the more efficient the building process. That is why rough sketches were replaced by blueprints. Artist renderings gave way to more elaborate, three-dimensional computer modeling. These allow everyone, from the client to the facilities manager, an opportunity to visualize the architect’s concept in more detail.

Now design technology has taken a major leap forward with state-of-the-art Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM objects are designed for use with Autodesk® and Revit® architectural software. BIM creates a three-dimensional digital prototype of each product, component or appliance that is to be used in the project. These images can be inserted and manipulated within the building design.

“The key is sharing information from the start, so everyone can avoid costly mistakes throughout construction,” said Steve Letnich, Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “At Metal Sales, we quickly realized the value of Building Information Modeling for every phase of the process, and wanted to make sure we offered this service to our customers.”

Each BIM graphic is imbedded with all the technical details associated with the Metal Sales product it represents. In addition to seeing how the product would look within a three-dimensional rendering, developers and contractors can pull up the exact dimensions, weight, performance characteristics, environmental specifications, installation requirements, tools and accessories, shipping information and current costs. Supported by Autodesk® Revit® intuitive design software, BIM gives all design-build team direct access to the data they will need to construct the project. Users report a significant reduction in pricing errors, over-or-under ordering of supplies, material incompatibility, construction delays, and costly omissions.

Another benefit, according to Letnich, is the ‘what if’ scenario. “If last minute changes to the design are proposed, these computer models can calculate the time, cost and structural implications of any alteration being considered. Problems can be worked out in modeling, instead of on the jobsite.”

Metal Sales has BIM technology, along with their new design and estimating software, AppliCad®, and downloadable AutoCad® details in the ‘Architect’s Corner’ section of their newly designed website. These programs give architects the tools they need to explore the creative possibilities of incorporating the distinctive look of metal within their artistic vision, while helping builders save time and increase efficiency.

“More and more designers and developers are discovering the tremendous versatility and appeal of this durable design element,” explains Letnich. “Metal is attractive, durable, low maintenance, energy efficient, and much more competitively priced in today’s market.”