NEWS: Tata Steel launches ‘first of a kind’ web-based BIM tool

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Company’s DNA Profiler lets users retrieve the ‘exact level of BIM data’ they require at any stage in the construction process

Tata Steel, one of Europe’s largest steel producers, has launched a new BIM and product data tool for all of its European construction brand products, to support architects, specifiers, engineers and facility managers.

The company’s new DNA Profiler  is designed to allow users, at whatever stage they are in the construction process, to retrieve the exact level of BIM data they require – and in the format they need.

The flexible web-based tool will host over 6,100 of the company’s European construction brand products – including Celsius, ComFlor, Kalzip and Catnic products – in a range of native formats including Autodesk Revit, ArchiCAD, Tekla, Allplan and Trimble SketchUp.

Furthermore, there is the option to download data sets, 3D objects or both combined, for continued parametric functionality. It also allows users to find a product by filtering on product data and performance characteristics. The idea here is that architects and contractors can access the data they need in the correct format and tailor it specifically to meet Employer Information Requirements (EIR).

For consistency and interoperability, the data is structured following ISO and CEN requirements and will be connected through API integration with coBuilder. According to Tata Steel, this enables any attribute to be mapped across different standards or national requirements and can be translated into other languages.

Each of the DNA Profiler’s data-rich BIM objects features contact details, mechanical properties, performance characteristics, maintenance requirements and guarantee periods. In the future it will be expanded to include information on lead times, pricing and much more.

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“If BIM is to be properly adopted, the industry needs to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and our industry-leading DNA Profiler not only provides the design community with the tools it needs but acts as a standard setter for product manufacturers going forward,” says Alex Small, Tata Steel BIM and Digital Platforms Manager.

“This powerful resource will aid the flow of information throughout the construction process, making sure that the right level of quality, safety and compliance standards are met. Critically, as it draws directly from Tata Steel’s database (our single source of the truth), users can be assured that the data they are accessing is up to date. Also, we see it supporting with client handovers at completion too, ensuring the inclusion of the correct documents, data, models and warranties – all contributing to helping teams to manage and build a project on time and to budget.”

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