Ventilation, air distribution and fire and smoke control manufacturer Ruskin Air Management has launched an extensive and freely available library of Building Information Modelling (BIM) objects to support the work of designers, installers and operators of building engineering systems.

The library will continue to be regularly updated with new product information, but already holds a huge amount of free to download data on fire and smoke control dampers that engineers can directly incorporate into their BIM models.

BIM is now a mandatory part of the design process on every centrally procured public sector project in the UK as part of the government’s strategy for improving the quality of buildings and encouraging better collaboration across construction supply chains. It is also being widely adopted by private sector clients looking to improve building performance; cut costs and speed up project delivery.

It is also the preferred method for managing information in a common format, from the earliest feasibility stage through design, construction, operation and final demolition. As a result, everyone involved in a building project from initial designers to facilities managers and end clients can use the data contained in BIM models to extract the best possible performance from the building as a whole and its component elements. 

The use of BIM enables better internal management of technical data and the integration of multiple data sources in one place. It is aimed at ensuring buildings perform as close as possible to their design intent throughout their operating life and gives facilities managers unprecedented access to product information to help with ongoing operation, maintenance and replacement.

Ruskin’s 3D objects include key data defining each product’s physical characteristics, materials and properties. As a result, the objects can be directly incorporated into BIM models and form part of virtual 3D designs to help construction and installation teams identify any potential ‘clashes’ so they can iron out any problems before work begins.  

This speeds up the delivery process; cuts costs; and ensures a better quality of final product.

Ruskin is also encouraging library users to send comments and provide feedback on the usability of the BIM objects to help develop and improve this portal and create more interaction.

For more information and to download BIM objects go to: www.ruskinuk.co.uk/technical/bim-models/