Articles, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Is it advisable to conduct topographic surveys during construction?

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
torre de pisa inclinada por falta de estudios topograficos

Regarding topography, it is often believed that this study is only necessary at the beginning of construction work; however, this view does not fully reflect the true purpose of a topographic survey.

It is essential to consider that these studies, in addition to providing a precise view of the terrain’s characteristics, can help us identify changes in the alignment of structures as they settle, ensuring the correct placement of structures and helping to prevent issues that may arise from discrepancies in elevation, alignment, and terrain configuration. Without this detailed information, construction can face significant risks that impact both the safety and functionality of the structure.

importancia de la topografia continua
Key reasons to conduct topographic surveys during construction:

  1. Precision control and alignment: Surveys help verify that all elements of the construction are correctly aligned, preventing deviations in walls, columns, and foundations.
  2. Minimizing structural risks: Detecting anomalies in the terrain, such as sinking or landslides, allows for preventive actions and plan adjustments to ensure structural stability.
  3. Efficiency in material usage: Knowing the precise terrain profile enables optimization of the required material quantities, reducing waste and additional costs.
  4. Mitigating legal issues and conflicts: Accurate surveys ensure that construction is carried out in the correct location and within property boundaries, avoiding property disputes and legal issues.

construccion y topografia
Historical Case: The Leaning Tower of Pisa

A famous example of the consequences of inadequate planning and lack of detailed topographic and geotechnical studies is the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy. Construction of this tower began in 1173, and due to the lack of thorough terrain studies, the tower’s foundations were insufficient to support its weight on soft, uneven ground. This caused the tower to begin leaning during its construction, creating a significant risk of collapse.

With today’s advances in topography, the leaning and structural problems of the Tower of Pisa would have been detected much earlier, allowing for design or foundational adjustments to prevent the tilt. Today, this tower remains an example of the importance of conducting topographic and geotechnical studies, not only at the beginning but at every stage of a construction project, to ensure the stability and safety of buildings.

torre de pisa inclinada por falta de estudios topograficos

Articles, BIM Consulting, BIM Modeling

Version Comparison: Revit 2018 to Revit 2024

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
modelo bim del metro de riyad elaborado por los consultores bim de acero estudio

In the past five years, BIM has continued its significant progress, driving widespread adoption of platforms like Autodesk Revit, which enables architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) teams to collaborate in real time and efficiently manage all stages of a project.

Revit, Autodesk’s leading software for BIM modeling, has continuously integrated improvements in its versions from 2018 to 2024, expanding its capabilities for increasingly sophisticated collaboration, precision, and visualization.

Key Improvements in Revit Versions 2018 to 2024

  • Revit 2018: Enhancements in editing complex walls, 3D reinforcement, and new graphic filters.
  • Revit 2019: Support for perspective views and a new rendering engine.
  • Revit 2020: Introduction of the “Path of Travel” tool and improvements in MEP systems analysis.
  • Revit 2021: New cloud collaboration tools and advanced view customization.
  • Revit 2022: Improved parametric modeling and advanced phase control tools.
  • Revit 2023: Enhanced interoperability and compatibility with Enscape for visualization.
  • Revit 2024: Optimization of collaborative BIM workflows and improved review tools.

New Feature Details

  • Revit 2018:
    This version introduced important optimizations for editing complex walls, allowing users to make structural modifications quickly and precisely. It also added a 3D reinforcement feature, aiding projects that require precision in reinforced concrete structures. Additionally, Revit 2018’s graphic filters improved visual clarity and project view customization.
    revit 2018
  • Revit 2019:
    In 2019, Autodesk improved the visual interface and support for perspective views, providing designers with a smoother navigation experience within models. The new rendering engine also allowed users to achieve higher-quality renders without impacting overall software performance.
    revit 2019
  • Revit 2020:
    A standout feature in this version was the “Path of Travel” tool, which automatically calculates routes within the model, useful for evacuation design and space optimization. Improvements in MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) systems analysis also made working on complex systems easier by enhancing interference detection and load calculation accuracy.
  • Revit 2021:
    Revit 2021 featured essential cloud collaboration tools for projects with remote teams. Advanced view customization provided greater control over model visualization, enabling users to adapt their workspace to the specific needs of each user or project.
  • Revit 2022:
    This version enhanced parametric modeling, increasing flexibility in designing architectural elements. Phase control tools made project planning and management easier, allowing teams to accurately manage the different stages of a construction project.
  • Revit 2023:
    With a strong focus on interoperability, Revit 2023 included significant improvements in compatibility with Enscape, facilitating the creation of high-quality, realistic visualizations directly from the BIM model. This integration was particularly useful for architects and engineers looking to review and share their projects in an attractive and easily interpretable visual format.
    revit 2023
  • Revit 2024: The latest version optimized collaborative BIM workflows, enabling faster and more efficient synchronization among teams. Enhanced review and markup tools facilitate feedback and change tracking, which are essential during the development and construction phases. These updates make Revit 2024 an even more powerful tool for managing complex collaborative projects.

If you’re interested in implementing a BIM solution in your company, project, or even for building management, don’t hesitate to contact Acero Estudio. We specialize in BIM consulting and have a team of experts in Revit.

Let’s talk, find points of support, and consolidate your ideas. We’re at your service.

Articles, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Types of Objectives in Topographic Surveys

Posted on by admin-Gabriel

Topographic studies, also known as topographic surveys, are a fundamental tool in engineering, construction, architecture, and urban planning due to the valuable information they provide about the terrain.

There are various types of topographic surveys, each with specific objectives adapted to the needs of your project. Below, we describe the main types of topographic studies, each with its respective objectives.

  1. Geodetic Surveys

Geodetic surveys are essential for precise topographic mapping. Their objective is to create a framework of reference points with exact coordinates through the use of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS).

These surveys are crucial for large-scale projects, such as road and highway infrastructure, coastal city construction, and more. They provide reliable data to locate structures and other elements in relation to a global coordinate system.

geodesia

  1. Plane Surveys

A plane survey allows for detailed measurements within specific areas. It is widely used for limited areas and coordinate delineation projects as it does not account for the Earth’s curvature. Traditional tools like theodolites and levels are used to measure distances, angles, and elevations, ensuring precision in local projects.

  1. Airborne Surveys

With the help of unmanned aerial vehicles, such as drones, airborne surveys have become more efficient. These include drone photogrammetry and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), with the goal of capturing extensive data over large areas quickly and accurately.

These aerial topographic studies enable the creation of three-dimensional terrain models, useful for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and evaluating inaccessible areas.

topografia aérea

  1. Construction Surveys

Specifically designed for the construction industry, construction surveys aim to provide precise data for buildings. It is recommended to conduct them from site preparation through to the final verification of structures.

This type of topographic study ensures that buildings, roads, and other infrastructure are constructed according to design specifications and meet regulatory standards, preventing costly errors in project execution.

  1. Boundary Surveys

Boundary surveys aim to define and delineate property lines and are essential for resolving land disputes, property transfers, and compliance with zoning regulations.

  1. Hydrographic Surveys

The objective of hydrographic surveys is to map underwater features, such as depths, shoals, and obstacles. These studies are essential for navigation, marine construction, and coastal zone management. Thanks to this type of study, a detailed profile of the waterbed can be obtained for projects such as port dredging and maintenance of navigation routes.

trabajo de topografía

If you want to learn more about our topography services, remember that Acero Estudio is a surveying company with 25 years of experience in Europe and Latin America. Contact us today — as a topography company, we are specialists and at your service.

Articles, BIM Consulting, BIM Modeling

Is Real-Time Updating of BIM Models Advantageous?

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
importancia del tiempo real en bim

The BIM methodology offers a significant advantage by enabling real-time functionality. This means that any modifications made to the BIM model are automatically updated in all related documents and plans.

This technical feature is far more than just a technicality; it ensures that all project participants are always working with the most current information, thus eliminating the risk of errors due to lack of synchronization and the need for manual updates across multiple files.

bim modeling

Benefits of Real-Time Functionality in BIM

  • Error Reduction: With data being updated instantly, errors and duplications are minimized since all professionals access the same updated model, avoiding work on outdated documents or older versions.
  • Avoidance of Work Duplication: Architecture, engineering, and construction teams can collaborate on a single model reflecting the project’s current state. This streamlines communication and decision-making, as all team members view changes in real time.
  • Resource Optimization: Automated updates eliminate the need for manual review and modification of multiple documents. This saves time, reduces resource use, and allows teams to focus on value-added tasks.
  • Quality Control and Monitoring: Real-time information facilitates ongoing project progress tracking and enables early detection of potential issues or discrepancies in design and construction.
  • Greater Transparency for Clients: Clients and other stakeholders can review the updated model in real time, providing a clear, detailed view of the project status, thus enhancing transparency and trust in the construction process.

In summary, real-time updating in BIM not only optimizes workflow and information accuracy but also transforms the way construction projects are managed. By ensuring that all parties involved work with the latest information, BIM methodology enables effective coordination and more efficient and reliable project execution.

If you’re ready to implement BIM through software such as Revit or others, don’t hesitate to contact us for information on our BIM consulting services. Remember that at Acero Estudio, we are BIM specialists at your service.

Avoid errors and improve project planning. We’re here to help you.

Articles, Levantamiento Topográfico, Servicios de Topografía, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Applications of Topography in Civil Engineering

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
aplicaciones de la topografia en ingenieria civil

As we often mention, topographic studies are essential in civil engineering because they provide advanced knowledge of the surfaces where constructions will take place.

In the design and construction of roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and other infrastructure, topography helps us delimit land, conduct geotechnical studies, and manage large-scale infrastructure projects.

Consider that Acero Estudio’s topography survey services can be highly useful in projects such as:

  • Road and bridge design: Topography allows us to obtain precise terrain data, ensuring a proper layout and minimizing risks.
  • Building and dam construction: It facilitates the leveling and correct orientation of structures. In the case of dams and other water management constructions, topography plays a crucial role in preventing flood risks.
  • Land delimitation: Topographic techniques help define boundaries and property, especially in areas with irregular surfaces.
  • Geotechnical studies: Topography is used to analyze soil stability.
  • Infrastructure project management: It contributes to monitoring and controlling progress while also helping to reduce construction risks.
maquinaria preparando terreno para construccion
Machinery preparing the ground for the construction of an infrastructure project.

For precise results in your civil engineering projects, contact Acero Estudio, a company specialized in topographic services and surveys. We also provide solutions for the engineering and architecture sectors, with an expert team ready to assist you. Contact us – we’re at your service!

Articles, BIM Consulting

Is BIM Suitable for Infrastructure Construction?

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
consultoria bim para proyectos de infraestructura

When it comes to infrastructure, BIM’s uses are significant. BIM is applicable in planning and managing complex projects such as bridges, roads, drainage systems, and railway tracks, among others. It also enables the creation of precise digital models that integrate all phases of the project.

Risk Reduction, the Top Priority

Infrastructure projects involve extensive investments, whether carried out by national or local governments or private entities. The sums invested in these types of projects are substantial, and there is always a strong emphasis on avoiding construction risks that could lead to rework or unforeseen problems. With BIM modeling, even before laying a single brick, a crucial step in risk prevention can be achieved. This collaborative system allows the entire construction team to analyze, enhance, and identify potential risks. Moreover, thanks to its ability to generate real-time simulations and analyses, BIM facilitates informed decision-making, leading to greater sustainability and durability of infrastructure.

Improving Efficiency and Project Scheduling

While BIM is often considered solely a tool for risk reduction, it also enhances project efficiency by helping forecast material costs with minimal waste and ensuring proper construction timelines. However, the model requires the right input, and this is where Acero Estudio’s BIM consulting services stand out. A poorly executed or incomplete model can be detrimental to your project. Contact us and let us help you—our team of specialists is ready to provide support and guidance whenever you need it.

Articles, Levantamiento Topográfico, Servicios de Topografía, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Differences and Similarities Between Topography and Geodesy

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
topography survey company

Topography and geodesy are sister disciplines that provide us with advanced knowledge of the surfaces in a given area.

Topography studies relatively small surfaces where precision is required for the construction of industrial plants, factories, houses, hydroelectric plants, etc. Geodesy, on the other hand, carries out these studies over much larger areas, such as the extension of a highway spanning hundreds of kilometers, the laying of a railway line connecting several cities, international airports, electrical grid systems, and more.

As we can see, the purpose of both studies is quite similar, but the scales are fundamentally different. For this reason, each uses distinct techniques and instruments.

Below is a list of the main differences between geodesy and topography:

Aspect Topography Geodesy
Scope and Scale Focuses on small, local areas like construction sites. Covers large areas, including continents and the entire planet.
Earth’s Curvature Not considered in small projects. Considers Earth’s curvature over long distances.
Instruments Total stations, optical levels, drones. GPS, GNSS systems, satellites.
Method Measures distances, angles, and elevations in local areas. Establishes global coordinates and studies Earth’s shape.
Applications Construction projects, land surveying, urban planning. Tectonic studies, global positioning systems (GPS).
Time Scale Used for short-term, specific projects. Used for long-term studies, including geological changes.
Coordinate Systems Uses local coordinate systems for precise locations. Uses global coordinate systems (e.g., WGS84).
Precision High precision in small areas. Precision adjusted for large-scale and global phenomena.

Whether you need a topographic or geodetic survey, Acero Estudio are specialists in topographic surveys at an international level. With over 25 years of experience in Europe and Latin America, we provide specialized technical support for any project.

Contact us today, we are at your service!

Articles, Outsourcing CAD

Benefits of CAD Outsourcing

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
outsourcing cad design

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is a critical tool in creating technical drawings and designs for sectors such as construction, engineering, and manufacturing. Its use enables the creation of detailed and accurate representations of structures, mechanical parts, and more. CAD applications range from architectural design to product engineering, offering 2D and 3D visualizations. Its benefits include reducing errors, optimizing design time, and allowing for quick and effective modifications.

Benefits of Outsourcing CAD Design

  1. Cost savings: Avoid investing in expensive software and hiring specialized personnel.
  2. Access to experts: Work with highly skilled professionals without needing to train them in-house.
  3. Time optimization: Speed up projects and delivery deadlines, allowing the company to focus on core activities.
  4. Scalability: Adjust design resources based on project needs without compromising quality.
  5. Quality improvement: Access the latest technologies and practices without investing in continuous training.

Companies That Benefit from CAD Outsourcing

Outsourcing CAD design is particularly beneficial for companies in sectors such as construction, engineering, architecture, industrial design, and manufacturing. Companies managing multiple projects simultaneously or needing customized solutions without in-house infrastructure can find CAD outsourcing a cost-effective and efficient alternative. Additionally, startups or growing companies looking to optimize their technical resources can greatly benefit from this service.

At Acero Estudio, we specialize in creating AutoCAD drawings for clients worldwide. With a highly skilled team, we guarantee precision, quality, and solutions tailored to your needs. We also offer the integration of AutoCAD with BIM methodology, enhancing collaboration and project management for complex projects. Contact us to take your project to the next level!

Articles, Levantamiento Topográfico, LIDAR Services, Servicios de Topografía, Topographic Surveys

The Role of Topographic Surveys in Industrial Project Planning

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
servicio de levantamiento topografico para proyectos de infraestructura industrial

In industrial construction projects, an accurate topographic survey is essential to mitigate risks such as errors in infrastructure placement, improper land use, and cost overruns during the construction phase. Without an adequate topographic survey, plants, warehouses, and factories may face structural issues, interference with underground services, or non-compliance with regulations that could delay the project and increase costs.

Benefits of Topographic Surveys in Industrial Projects

  • Future expansion planning:
    The survey facilitates planning for future expansions, maximizing the use of available land.
  • Precise calculation of earthworks:
    It allows accurate estimation of the volume of earth to be removed or filled, optimizing resources.
  • Identification of slopes:
    Ensures that the terrain is suitable for the construction of heavy structures, avoiding stability issues.
  • Detection of underground interferences:
    Prevents damage to pipes, cables, and other underground services, minimizing risks during construction.
  • Compliance with local regulations:
    Ensures that the location of structures complies with municipal and environmental regulations.

Our Work at Acero Estudio

At Acero Estudio, we conduct detailed topographic surveys using advanced technology such as drone photogrammetry and LIDAR surveys. A typical survey begins with an inspection of the area and the planning of the equipment to be used. Our experts then collect the necessary topographic data, including elevations and relevant points, to generate precise plans. The process concludes with the delivery of a technical report and recommendations for optimizing the land according to the project’s needs.

If you are planning an industrial project and seek precision and expertise, Acero Estudio is the specialized company providing topographic services to help ensure the success of your project. Contact us for more information!

Articles, BIM, BIM Consulting, Levantamiento Topográfico, Servicios de Topografía

Differences Between Topographic Levels and Types of Leveling

Posted on by admin-Gabriel
realizando un levantamiento topografico

Among our clients, we’ve noticed an interest in clarifying the differences between topographic levels (tools) and leveling methodologies (procedures).

Types of Topographic Levels

In the field of topography, using different types of levels is essential for ensuring accuracy in height and distance measurements. Each type of level has its own purpose and characteristics, and its selection depends on the specific needs of the project.

Plane Levels
Plane levels, also known as optical levels, are primarily used to measure the horizontality of a terrain. This type of level requires the operator to manually adjust the instrument to make it horizontal before taking readings. They are ideal for simple leveling projects where it’s necessary to ensure that a surface is level in relation to a horizontal plane. They are widely used in construction and landscaping projects where ensuring the land or structural elements are perfectly level is necessary.

Line Levels
Line levels are more precise instruments that project a horizontal line on the ground, facilitating the alignment of structures across a surface. Unlike plane levels, they don’t require constant adjustments, making them faster and more efficient in repetitive alignment tasks. They are used in infrastructure projects, such as the installation of pipes or the alignment of pillars, where precision in height and alignment is crucial.

Automatic Levels
Automatic levels, also known as self-leveling levels, are the most advanced. They use a compensator that automatically adjusts the instrument to achieve perfect horizontality, eliminating human errors. They are extremely precise and are used in large-scale projects where accuracy is vital. This type of level is very common in civil engineering projects, road construction, and high-precision topographic surveys.

Types of Leveling

Leveling, the process by which the height difference between points on the ground is determined, can be carried out in various ways.

Trigonometric Leveling
Trigonometric leveling is based on trigonometric calculations using angles of elevation or depression and horizontal distances to determine the height of one point relative to another. This method is useful in rugged terrain or when the distances between points are long. It is employed in projects that require measuring height differences in uneven terrain or mountainous areas.

Height Leveling
Also known as geometric leveling, this is the most common method in topography. It consists of the direct measurement of height differences between several points using instruments like the automatic level. It is the most precise method and is used when high accuracy is required. It’s ideal for building construction, roads, and infrastructure projects that require precise height data.

Barometric Leveling
This type of leveling uses atmospheric pressure to estimate the altitude of different points. While it is less accurate than other methods, it is useful for preliminary studies in large areas. It is used in extensive topographic studies where millimetric precision is not required, such as in geographic explorations or environmental surveys.

Simple Leveling
Simple leveling involves measuring the height difference between two points using a handheld level or basic instrument. It is suitable for small projects where it is necessary to quickly determine the slope of the terrain. It is used in the construction of small lots, post installation, or landscaping projects.

Why Choose Acero Estudio as Your Topography Service Provider?

Acero Estudio is a company specialized in topographic surveys with over 10 years of experience in the industry. We use the most advanced technologies, such as drones for photogrammetry, and apply precise leveling methods to guarantee the accuracy of our work in all types of projects. Our team of experts is ready to offer personalized solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

If you’re looking for a reliable company for your next topographic project, contact Acero Estudio. We are ready to provide you with the best service in topographic surveys and drone topography.