Checking fabricator's 3D model in lieu of steel shop drawings?

[abusementpark]

Has anyone here used the fabricator's 3D model for structural steel approval in lieu of checking 2D steel shop drawings?

If so, I'd like to know how this process worked and different programs were used.

Right now, we check 2D shop drawings, but require submittal of the 3D for assistance in the checking process. However, all marks are put on the shop drawings. It would nice if we could just mark things up in the model.

 

[structSU10]

I have not, but there is an article from Structure magazine in this months edition that talks about it. It had contact info for the firm that did the job.

http://www.structuremag.org/

you can view the current magazine there, start on pg 32.

 

[ztengguy]

I would be worried about translation to the paper that gets sent out. Would you just put your stamp on it without checking anything, assuming that its ok from the model?

All the times we get cad drawings, pdfs, etc, I still end up printing it out to review, its just easier to have two pieces of paper side by side than to try and scroll thru a set of drawings on my screen.

 

[connectegr]

This may be standard practice in our future. Many detailers now do all of their checking within the model (if they actually check anything). I am finding less and less detail information provided on the shop drawings anyway. The CNC files are the important thing and we are "trusting" that they are accurate and correct.

BUT, I want the shop drawings. And I will return them revise and resubmit, if they provide insufficient information to verify the detail information.

http://www.FerrellEngineering.com

Providing fabrication and erection efficient structural design of connections. Consulting services for structural welding and bolting.