We need a minimum amount of information specified in BIM (Building Information Modeling) to enable automated firestop design. In general, life becomes easier and more awesome when the correct information is processed in BIM.
A typical project contains a selection of Building Information Models, including:
- An architectural/building model
- A structural model
- A mechanical model
- An electrical model
- A plumbing model
Technical Approvals
The information derived from these models serves as the foundation for choosing certified firestop solution in every BIM project. The term ‘certified’ holds significant importance. Each firestop solution undergoes rigorous testing in a fire safety laboratory oven, and the outcomes are documented in technical reports, such as an ETA (European Technical Approval). These reports provide important information about tested penetration seals along with their corresponding fire resistance ratings. The important information includes: installation types and pipe wall thickness; dimensions of installation; insulation type and thickness; construction type and thickness; pipe end configuration. This information also needs to be specified in BIM models to determine certified firestop systems.
Configuration
With the help of our Orange Button® BIM software, the information in BIM is automatically checked and processed in a clear and structured way.
To enable this data check, we must first specify the various categories from which information will be extracted. For ‘walls’, it is important to determine the type of wall. We differentiate between, for example: solid walls, flexible walls, shaft walls, etc. We determine the group of an element based on the name of the architectural and construction element. The same principle applies to various other components such as Floors, Pipes, Ducts, Cable Trays, and Conduits.
The Checklist
Performing a data check in BIM is automatically conducted with the help of Orange Button® BIM software. When information is correctly specified and processed in BIM – our data check report – shows a green indicator. When information is missing, the indicator is red. This visual cue helps to identify the missing information in your BIM. If information is missing in BIM, two courses of action are viable.
Firstly, adjustments can be made to the application’s settings to enhance data extraction from the elements. Alternatively, the missing information could be processed by the responsible stakeholder.
A typical scenario entails the specification of insulation of non-combustible pipes. While the description of a non-combustible pipe may be precise, indicating it as a steel or copper pipe, additional details such as the type of insulation (e.g., ‘Fiberglass’) and its combustible status may require clarification. In this case, it is the responsibility of the MEP contractor to process this information in BIM.
The Outcome
Not all lights are green, and you are missing information? No problem. You can still choose to perform a firestop clash detection with Orange Button® BIM software and add the information afterward before selecting approved firestop solutions. Are all lights green? Then you have all the required information to determine certified firestop solutions based on information from BIM!
Checking the quality of BIM models is an important part of your business operations. It helps you get involved earlier in the design process and build relations with your prospects and customers.

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