The optimization of electrical installations in medium and low voltage substations is a critical factor to ensure safety, efficiency and functionality of electrical systems.
In this context, the integration of advanced technologies such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 3D scanning has transformed the way electrical projects are designed, planned and executed. Within these tools, the as built plans generated in BIM and the data obtained by 3D scanning have become key elements to ensure a correct installation and operation of electrical substations.
What are the plans as built?
As-built plans are final and accurate representations of what has actually been built in a project. Although initial design drawings provide a basis, as built capture modifications and adjustments made during construction, which may arise due to unforeseen problems, changes in specifications or adjustments on the ground.
For electrical installations in medium and low voltage substations, discrepancies between the design drawings and actual construction can have critical consequences such as power distribution failures, increased operating costs or safety risks. Therefore, having accurate as-built drawings not only allows the work to be documented as it was built, but also becomes an essential tool for maintenance, repair and future substation upgrades.
BIM and its application in electrical substations
BIM is not only limited to creating three-dimensional models of the elements that make up an installation, but also allows you to manage all information related to components, their maintenance and their life cycle. In an electrical substation, where different interconnected systems exist (low and medium voltage circuits, transformers, distribution cells, boards, among others), BIM facilitates coordination and visualization at all stages of the project, from planning to operation.
By integrating as-built plans into a BIM environment, you get a three-dimensional model that reflects the reality of the installation with all its electrical elements in their exact place, which improves the accuracy in the interference analysis, accessibility and space available for future interventions. In addition, the possibility of performing simulations within the BIM environment allows to predict the behavior of electrical systems under different load conditions, optimizing their design and guaranteeing their long-term reliability.
3D Scanning: Essential Add-on for Built Plans
3D scanning is a technology that has gained prominence in recent years due to its ability to accurately capture the geometry of spaces and objects in a built environment. For electrical installations in substations, 3D scanning is an essential complement to generate detailed and accurate as-built drawings, especially in rehabilitation or expansion projects.
Through laser or photogrammetry scanners, a three-dimensional model of the real space is captured and can be imported directly into the BIM environment. This process eliminates the need for manual measurements, reducing human errors and time required to document the actual status of the substation. The models obtained allow to verify in a precise way if the electrical components were installed according to the original plans and to detect possible misalignments or problems in the installation.
Benefits for the optimization of electrical installations
The combination of BIM with as built plans and 3D scanning offers numerous benefits for the optimization of electrical installations in medium and low voltage substations:
- Greater accuracy: Accurate documentation of the actual state of the installation reduces errors in maintenance and future upgrades, improving operational safety.
- Simulation and analysis: The BIM environment allows simulations to be carried out in order to predict the behaviour of the electrical system under different conditions, optimising its design and operation.
- Cost reduction: By avoiding rework and errors during installation, costs associated with subsequent corrections are minimized.
- Improved coordination: The integration of detailed information in BIM and 3D scanning improves communication between the different project actors, facilitating decision-making.
- Efficient maintenance: As-built plans facilitate access to accurate information for predictive and corrective maintenance, extending the substation’s life.