Laser scanning in construction has provided multiple benefits such as improved efficiency, increased quality assurance, reduced overall project risk, minimized rework, improved communication, and optimized project designs. From front-end planning through construction, the utilization of 3D laser scanning in construction projects can improve risk identification and mitigation while producing more efficient installations that minimize overall schedule duration and cost.
Let’s take a closer look at laser scanning in construction projects by identifying unique benefits, learning how laser scanning is integrated throughout the project life cycle, and assessing scenarios and use cases.
Laser scanning in construction—also referred to as Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) or High Definition Surveying (HDS)—is the process of capturing, mapping, and visualizing the 3D geometry of existing site infrastructure and existing plant conditions. This scan can then be uploaded and processed in the proper coordinates into a file that can be loaded into modeling software, providing a highly accurate (typically accurate up to +/- 1/16”) representation of the facility that can be used in a variety of ways. This highly accurate and detailed information lends itself well to optimizing project designs for both constructability and maintainability.
Constructability refers to the idea of optimally and strategically utilizing construction knowledge and experience in the earlier phases of a capital project, including during front-end planning, detail engineering and design, and procurement, to achieve project requirements and objectives. Constructability includes processes of identifying potential obstacles to decrease project risk. Constructability should be evaluated from every project stage, beginning with the initial phase of Scope Development during FEL 1. Delaying the evaluation can cause rework in later stages of the process.
Maintainability refers to the processes essential for sustaining a plant's longevity. This includes keeping the equipment and facility running smoothly.
Having access to the level of detailed information provided by 3D laser scanning in construction is also crucial for an effective and efficient engineering team. Incorporating laser scanning in construction early on can really help with plans to augment unit access roadways, transportation process equipment, large crane placement for projects, and more.
Laser scanning can increase accuracy as it allows the viewing of obstructions to be found easier than a standard walk-through. This helps decrease potential project risk with optimized project designs.
We believe utilizing laser scanning in construction is a best practice. Since the use of 3D laser scanning in construction started being implemented in the industry, entire projects have benefited by having the knowledge provided by the scans available. The scans can be in grayscale or color, as well as regular pictures. The cost is also minute in comparison to the provided benefits of reducing risks that could end up costing more later in the project life cycle.
If contractors have the ability to utilize 3D laser scanning, projects will get an edge over the competition. This is because projects will not have to wait for third parties to step in and add this extra value. If your projects have a history of consistent rework, 3D laser scanning can significantly reduce rework for future projects. It’s also fairly easy to utilize. To set up a scan, all you need is stable ground and a plan.
H+M In-House 3D Laser Scanning Systems |
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| 3D Laser Scanning Systems | ScanStation P30 | BLK360 |
| Survey/Setup Functionality |  |
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| Distance Measurement System | ||
| Maximum Range | 120 m | 60 m |
| Maximum Scan Rate | 1 mio pts/sec | 360,000 pts/sec |
| Selectable Sensitivity Levels | |
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| Resolution Settings | 7 (0.8 mm to 50 mm @ 10 m) | 3 (5/10/20 mm @ 10 m) |
| Laser Class | 1 | 1 |
| Laser Wavelength | 1550 nm (invisible) | 830 nm (invisible) |
| Tilt Sensor | Dual Axis Compensator | IMU |
| Imaging System | ||
| Internal Camera | |
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| HDR | |
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| External Camera | Optional | |
| IR Camera | |
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| Enviromental | ||
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +50°C | +5°C to +40°C |
| Solid Particle/Liquid Ingress Protection | IP54 | IP54 |
Projects can incorporate 3D laser scanning technology to capture existing infrastructure, improve engineering efficiency, provide virtual walkthroughs of construction sites, and produce a final product with improved dimensional accuracy, clash detection, and clarity. The integration of laser scanning throughout the entire project life cycle provides many notable benefits to project owners and contractors, including:
During the Front-End Planning Phase/Scope Development
- Virtual walkthroughs
- Early identification of issues and difficulties
- Assistance in producing optimal project options
- Remote or tight location accessibility
- Continuous workflow without delays
During the Detail Engineering and Design Phase
- Scan integration into CADworx
- Model reviews with scan overlays
- Image capture via laser scanner
- Alignment of operations and maintenance interests
- Ability to design around obstructions
- Elimination of inaccuracies and uncertainty
- Ability to overlay existing infrastructure with new infrastructure
During the Procurement and Fabrication Phase
- Verification of critical fabrication items
- Ability to provide seamless installation
- Increased time for necessary adjustments
During the Construction Phase
- Minimization of rework
- Cost savings from scanning upfront
- Integration of all disciplines to minimize field errors
- Quick mitigation of issues after project start
Integrating laser scanning in construction can benefit capital projects during each phase of the project life cycle. At H+M Industrial EPC, we’ve fully integrated our 3D laser scanning services into every service we provide, as well as incorporated throughout our EPC approach to provide benefits through every phase of your capital project. To provide further insight into how you can integrate 3D laser scanning into each project phase in construction, we have provided circumstances in which laser scanning can be helpful for constructability and case studies using laser scanning in construction for each of the phases of the project life cycle.
3D Laser Scanning for Constructability: Project Phases
When to Utilize 3D Laser Scanning for Constructability |
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Project Phase |
Circumstances |
Front-End Planning/Scope Development |
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Detail Engineering and Design |
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Procurement and Fabrication |
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Construction |
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Case Studies: 3D Laser Scanning in Construction
These case studies will provide valuable information and knowledge as to why 3D laser scanning is beneficial for all aspects of the project life cycle. From front-end planning/scope development to the construction phase, 3D laser scanning is able to produce images and scans to benefit the accuracy of your project.
Issue: Determine the best location for new equipment with minimal impacts on existing equipment.
Solution: Scan the facility to determine where the best fit is with the least impact on operations, maintenance, construction, and future work in the area. The parts that are dark red represent the highest impact areas while green represents the least impacted areas.
Issue: Locating tie-ins and identifying demo scope.
Solution: Utilize the scanner to take pictures for better identification in the field. These images can showcase existing and new IA supply, demos to values for installing blind flange, and the location and elevation of existing infrastructure.
Issue: The tank was field erected, and upon completion of the tank, it was discovered that the nozzle angle and projects were slightly off from the drawing/model. This was critical, as a lined pipe was routed to the tank.
Solution: Scan the tank at the site and drop it into the model to identify any discrepancies and rework in design rather than construction. The model (green) can overlay the actual design to easily show these discrepancies.
Issue: 18” weld at north/upper 45 was sitting on new pipe support.
Solution: Lengthen the header to push the north/upper 45 further south/down and off the pipe support. This fix pushed the 45 south, but the travel had to be shortened to keep the piping on the new piping support, as shown in the above image. The 6” line required modification for the same reason.
At H+M Industrial EPC, we’ve fully integrated our 3D laser scanning services into every service we provide, as well as incorporated throughout our EPC approach to provide benefits through every phase of your capital project. With over 30 years of experience in the EPC Industry, we can efficiently execute all the requirements of your capital project. Whether you require design-build or design-bid-build project delivery, using laser scanning in construction can provide unique advantages and greater efficiency through each phase of your project. H+M’s innovative in-house laser scanning technology enables us to produce predictable project execution while reducing project risks. Are you ready to start your project with the leading capital contractor in the energy, chemical, and terminal and logistics industries? Contact H+M Industrial EPC today!
