BIM (Building Information Modelling) is a partnership process that involves the creation and the use of digital models to plan, design, build and manage buildings and infrastructures. BIM promotes the integration of data and information throughout the construction life cycle, involving the various players in the industry. Although many industries in the sector are already gradually adopting BIM, the ceramics industry faces specific challenges in incorporating this technology.

The Challenges

One of the challenges is of a technical nature. 3D elements increasingly require detailed models to accurately represent features such as textures and patterns. On the other hand, there are other challenges that apply across the board to adopting BIM. Of course, we’re referring to the lack of standardised processes and protocols as well as interoperability. Creating, updating and sharing accurate data is essential for optimising production and ensuring compliance with current regulations.

Various applications, formats, names and terminologies naturally lead to confusion and inefficiency in processes. The lack of interoperability between software and tools is also a problem. Problems with interoperability lead to errors during the construction process which means a waste of money, time and resources. Various efforts have already been made around the world, including in Portugal, and many more are underway to address these obstacles and others such as resistance to change, data and information security and traceability, implementation costs, software complexity and training.

Cost vs Return

We know that adopting BIM involves significant costs related to training, software and infrastructures upgrades. SME’s face considerable financial challenges when considering these investments. Evaluating, clearly communicating and understanding the long term return on investment is paramount to overcome this barrier.

The digital nature of BIM reduces the need for physical prototypes and it can lead to a reduction in material waste. It will also have an impact on other areas, namely process efficiency, product quality and sustainability. The latter is already an unavoidable new competitiveness factor, increasingly important within the context of the guidelines from the European ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) Directive on sustainability reporting and the Digital Product Passport, all related to the commitments of the European Green Deal.

On the other hand, the targets already set by the Portuguese government for making BIM compulsory by 2025 will completely change the national framework. From that moment on, all the players in the construction value chain will have to get on board with this trend because, as well as being a matter of competitiveness and innovation, it will also be compulsory.

The role of BIMCer and the Agenda ECP

Within this challenging context, the BIMCer platform has emerged, promoted by Agenda ECP- Ecocerâmica e Cristalaria de Portugal, co-financed by the Recovery and Resilience Plan and led by Vista Alegre Atlantis. Within the scope of BIM, the intention is to promote production efficiency and improve processes as well as the value chain in the ceramics industry through a Public and Open Library of Digital Models of Ceramic Products, based on BIM technologies and with special emphasis on the carbon footprint of products. BIMCer represents yet another channel through which manufacturers will be able to advertise their products, highlighting their sustainability features, thus reducing the costs inherent to adopting BIM. It will also boost work on standardising a set of rules for building digital models using BIM technologies, thus supporting an evolving context in terms of the lack of standardised processes and protocols as well as interoperability.

Conclusion

The ceramics industry is on a journey to reinvent itself. Despite the challenges, the adoption of BIM will not only be an evolution, but also a revolution: it offers significant opportunities for innovation, improving the efficiency, quality and sustainability of products. Overcoming the challenges requires a joint commitment from the industry, regulators and technology suppliers, as well as professionals in the construction industry. The Agenda ECP also promotes synergies for this revolution. Together, we will transform challenges into extraordinary opportunities for companies.

recuperarportugal.gov.pt