This technically complex project is Wessex Water’s first scheme delivered to BIM Level 2, where building information is developed in a collaborative 3D environment. With support from AECOM’s UK and international cross-sector BIM team, a range of digital engineering innovations were identified and introduced to this large scheme, as well as to the wider Wessex Water business. These included:

• Digital collaboration platform: AECOM hosted a common data environment (CDE) for the project using Bentley ProjectWise collaboration software. With consistent project information, stored, controlled and audited centrally there was a single, reliable source of truth so duplication, repetition or rework are avoided. The client, designer, contractor and wider supply chain all have CDE access enabling collaboration.
• Three-dimensional engineering and visualization: AECOM delivered Wessex Water’s first BIM Level 2 model. The model contains data outputs from ground penetrating radar, drone surveys and laser scans to ensure existing equipment is accurately modelled. This is vital given the need to design new equipment to fit and interface with existing plant. The model fully integrates the civil, MEICA and process design.
• The igloo: The 3D model was combined with gaming technology to create a virtual reality model. This virtual world is hosted in ‘an igloo’, a fully immersive cylinder with 360-degree model projection. The igloo enables teams of up to 12 people to stand within, and walk around, a virtual model of a project. Design reviews can be carried out from within the igloo aiding design coordination, stakeholder buy-in and plant operability review. Health & Safety issues in construction and operation are more easily identified and eliminated.
• Virtual construction sequencing: A 4D time-based construction sequence has been created by linking the model to a Primavera construction programme. It is being used by the contractor to review buildability, site resourcing, sequencing to reduce safety risks and work area planning. This is allowing the creation of an optimum construction sequence within the tight physical constraints imposed by the impounding reservoir dam and access road.

The digital approach brings many benefits:

• Efficient and effective design reviews: The 3D visualization allows the delivery team to quickly understand how the proposed works will look and function, leading to sound and timely decision making.
• Clash elimination: Over 100 design clashes were automatically detected. Resolving these early reduced construction risk and led to a simpler underground pipework design in a constricted area of site, offering program savings estimated at one week.
• Value engineering: Our model visualization identified value engineering opportunities including rationalization of the wastewater area with a potential $US 267,000 (£200,000) saving.
• Drone surveys eliminate safety hazards: Drones were used to undertake a structural survey of the existing chemical building roof, creating a permanent high-definition record of roof condition for future reference. The use of drones eliminated the fall-from-height hazard associated with access to, and work on, a fragile roof.