Modern Mining November 2019

feature CONSULTANTS/PROJECT HOUSES By using Building Information Modelling (BIM), Worley is able to create digital information models from 3D right through to 7D.

Worley takes mining sector beyond 5D The digital age is ushering in dramatic change as new technology is adopted at an exponential rate, merging the physical world with the virtual and allowing industry to use technology to improve efficiencies, safety and return on investments. Leading the way in digital transformation in the energy, chemicals and resources sectors, global project and asset services provider Worley is taking digital design capabilities beyond 5D.

B y using Building Information Modelling (BIM), Worley is creating digital information mod- els from 3D right through to 7D that contain both graphical and non-graphical information in a Common Data Environment. The information builds in value as the project stages progress until the complete data set is handed over to the client at the conclusion of a project, ready for operation. Each dimension of data offers clients a fuller under- standing of their project, from generating accurate programme data to producing accurate estimate costs, and ultimately providing a digital data bank that can be used to drive efficient operation and management and better business outcomes. Starting with a 3D model, 4D adds the benefit of a project schedule, providing greater insight through- out the design process. 5D allows control of cost and budget components and captures progress dynami- cally, allowing the entire project team to visualise the project objectives. The benefits of 6D and 7D come to light at handover and provide end-users with a better understanding of the lifecycle and sustainabil- ity of their assets.

A virtual image of a processing plant prepared using BIM.

BIM Manager for Worley, Russell Du Plessis, says South Africa’s mining and mineral processing sectors have traditionally focused on upfront capital costs; however, 6D and 7D BIM allow a planned, pro-active approach to assets that is significantly beneficial, not least in terms of costs. Du Plessis says that while many companies pro- vide 4D and 5D design focusing on the cost and schedule of construction, Worley’s 6D digital capa- bilities action the commissioning of a project, while 7D allows for optimal operation. He adds that, ide- ally, the information model should continue to evolve during the ‘in use’ phase with updates on repairs, replacements, operational data and diagnostics to further assist with informed and effective future deci- sion making. “Worley’s 7D design data mapping allows real- time access to operational related metadata for equipment and systems within a project in a virtual or augmented reality environment. It provides our customers with a highly valuable electronic asset that can easily geographically integrate details that were previously overlooked in paper files,” says Du Plessis. Developed to assist in designing sustainable assets, Worley’s 6D data incorporates the Worley SEAL system (Sustainable Engineering for Asset Lifecycle), a unique approach to engineering deliv- ery which integrates technical integrity and safe and sustainable design processes under a common umbrella. The result is designs that are technically compliant with statutory and customer require- ments; safer to build, operate and decommission;

36  MODERN MINING  November 2019