Computer Aided Design

Computer aided design (CAD) has been used to design municipal water and wastewater projects for more than a decade.  Most CAD systems, however, still function as they did 10 years ago - as a two-dimensional (2D) electronic drafting board.

Fortunately, three-dimensional (3D) computer generated models have become common in the water and wastewater industry for visualization and conceptual design.  But they've seen limited use in the final design of treatment facilities and conveyance systems.  That may soon be changing.

The benefits of this sophisticated tool are many.  Lower design costs.  Shortened construction schedules.  More cost effective construction methods.  Even lower operational costs. 

The challenge for many clients is finding a partner who has the knowledge and expertise to customize this complex technology for design-build projects.

Leading the Way

MWH is a leader in applying 3D CAD technologies for the water and wastewater industry.   We currently have a number of complex 3D projects in place.

Since the early 1990s, we've been involved in the infancy of this technology.  As the technology evolved, so did MWH.   From the beginning, we realized that if we were to offer our clients a true 3D-design approach it wouldn't come from a solution purchased off the shelf.  It would require a great deal of customization.

Customizing for the Industry

Traditionally, 3D modeling packages have been based on the petrochemical industry.  Their default parameters are geared towards that industry in areas like instrumentation symbols and piping specifications.

For instance, these systems may have robust solutions for structural steel.  But they aren't geared to the design and modeling of large reinforced hydraulic structures in water and wastewater facilities.  And none of the current software packages integrates architectural design functions.  For that reason, they require a high level of customization when applied to water and wastewater facilities. 

MWH quickly realized that the application of 3D design required the integration of several software programs.  In fact, software developers with “total solutions” are actually integrating several programs or modules.  Each module is designed for a specific purpose.  Examples include P&ID’s, equipment modeling, 3D piping, HVAC, electrical conduit and raceways and structural steel.  These modules require customization to meet a specific project's standards and needs. 

Spearheading New Approaches

By creatively combining the best functions of various programs, MWH can now effectively use 3D CAD to model and design:

• Pipelines (e.g., piping, electrical conduits, tanks and power pumps)
• Structural components (e.g., concrete columns, walls, and beams)
• Architectural features (e.g., doors, windows, and louvers)

The benefits of MWH's 3D CAD capabilities are many.  Consider:

• In the planning and feasibility phase, 3D models help illustrate design concepts and increase understanding of the future facility's appearance
• In the detailed design phase, 3D models promote faster decision making, shorten production schedules and provide more accurate cost estimates
• During construction, 3D models can be used for materials logistics tracking, contractor progress payments and faster resolution of unanticipated field changes
• Additionally, 3D models can serve as a multimedia base for operator training, provide data to O&M systems and assist in operational modifications and design expansion projects

As this technology evolves, these models will not only design data.  They will represent the entire “lifecycle” of project data from cradle to grave. 

Just as before, MWH will facilitate these developments and transform them into applicable solutions for the industry.