In the process industry, market dynamics often dictate how the CAPEX spend is planned. The manufacturers thus have the responsibility to complete any given project, meeting the strict demands of cost and schedule. This remains true for all projects, irrespective of scale, where getting things right the first time becomes paramount.
Engineering drawings may be inconsistent at times as the frequent revamp may not be captured, and this may lead to rework. The need is for a method of data capture which has high accuracy, can be carried out in running plant conditions, and should help to recreate an exact model of the working plant. Laser scanning enables the virtualization of assets, plants, equipment, components, and anything in real-time terms. It forms the basis to develop 3D models.
Ensuring high productivity remains a key challenge during actual project execution. Improved safety, better visibility, and schedule predictability can help manage the projects better. Due to the development of technology, it is now possible to integrate project schedules, materials, and engineering information along with 3D models on a single platform. A newer approach like AWP, 4D, 5D help to break down silos and align activities and deliverables better, thereby improving performance across the project life cycle.
Process plants normally have multiple sources of engineering data which is generated from different 2D & 3D design tools used by various engineering teams. There are also various engineering applications running at a given time for different operations like CAD, CAE, PLM. Developing a framework for the assessment of engineering applications can help them manage better and help businesses to build a simplified, modern, and agile enterprise.
Better integration of different systems like engineering data, applications would enhance productivity and right-first-time design. It will also lead to the creation of an integrated work environment and fosters better collaboration between multiple stakeholders.
