Eye For Detail
ACMA Newsletter
Eye For Detail
Autumn
Table Of Contents
Clayton Roxborough ACMA Chairman
Chairman’s message
Hello and welcome to the Autumn edition of the Eye for Detail e-magazine. No matter your circle of friends, where you live or what line of work you’re in, the year that was, delivered some unprecedented and unpredictable events and circumstances. The year ahead would seem similarly unpredictable. We can’t speculate on when or where the next “hot-spot” will occur, or what the reaction of the affected state government will be. It seems to me that some jurisdictions are tougher, or safer, than others. We may think we have a fair idea about what’s going to happen, but I am constantly surprised by the rules, or restrictions, imposed by governments and how some people react to those rules once they become our reality.
As the 20-21 financial year draws to a close, I think it’s worth taking a minute to reflect on the business year we’ve had, to lock in some of the lessons learned and maybe consider how we may do things differently, should similar circumstances arise.
Of course, everything is clearer in hindsight but without some kind of review, comparing the expected outcome versus actual outcome, the benefits of the decision-making experience can be somewhat diminished.
In business, when you’re looking to plan for the future, among all the other factors that must considered in the decision-making process, unpredictability can be a scary ingredient ….. and this year certainly included a whole lot of unpredictability. For me, it made the 19-20 year look like a comfort zone.
Unpredictability, or volatility, to me, means that I know things are unstable, elements are subject to change at short notice and the changes might be significant. I can adjust to a volatile business environment by de-risking or deferring some decisions, especially big decisions.
As a case in point, I’d like to talk about Tekla Structures and the surprising rule changes that Trimble are looking to impose on users of this software.
If this topic is of interest to you, please have a read of my Tekla Tantrum article later in this edition, where I discuss the proposed licence fee / maintenance / subscription fiasco and the umbrage and suspicion expressed to me by many business owners.
Also in this edition, we hear from members in Perth about the revitalisation of the Australian Construction Modellers Association in the west. It’s an encouraging sign of optimism and growth of the 3D modelling and drafting services sector in Western Australia.
Continuing the positive news, business confidence has had its best start to a year for a decade. From a record low in April of last year, the Roy Morgan Monthly Business Confidence survey indicates the first four months of 2021 has delivered the best start to a year for the Index since 2011 – during the middle of the ‘Mining Boom’. The ending of the $90 billion JobKeeper wage subsidy scheme in March has not led to a fall in Business Confidence as many had feared would happen and all indications are that 2021 should be a good year for business across a wide range of sectors in our industry.
ACMA Member Portal
By Phil Shanks
The ACMA has been developing an online membership portal.
This will ensure that you can manage your membership online, update member content and receive notifications regarding your annual membership renewal.
We require every current ACMA member to sign into your account and update the contents, so that its current and correct. This is an easy method for ensuring things like website, emails and logos are always correct and if you happen to make adjustments to your business, you have the autonomy to also manage the details on the ACMA website through this membership portal.
The same goes for employee members, your details can be managed by yourself and you don’t have to rely on the ACMA board to keep maintaining it as circumstances such as your place of employment or place of residence may change.
Accessing the Member Portal for the first time
If you are an existing member and accessing the portal for the first time, go to “My Account” in the top bar of the website. Reset your password using the email address you used on your original membership registration. You will receive an email to reset your password and will then be able to access your Member Profile [be sure to check your spam or junk folder].
The member portal and its associated Member Directory (once live) will ensure that Company and Sole Trader members can efficiently be found based on location and technical filters.
You might like to update your Profile details where there are a few extra data fields related to the software your business uses in production.
Naturally, when bringing a largely manual process online, we may have some minor teething issues. We rely on you to bring these to our attention for response or action.
Renewals will be due early July so keep an eye out for your renewal notification.
ASI Steel Convention
ASI Steel convention is to be held in Sydney at the Four Seasons hotel, on the 12th to the 14th of September 2021, providing the perfect opportunity for ACMA members across the country to attend this excellent event.
The ACMA national detailer’s forum is on Day 2 of the convention, for industry to discuss their issues and opportunities. If you plan on attending the forum only, attendance is free to ACMA members.
Australian steel is vital to this country’s economy, stability, and growth. While the global stage is learning to adapt to an ever-changing landscape, Australia’s steel industry has an opportunity to thrive by delivering high-quality products through a robust and effective supply-chain.
As billions of dollars are being invested in both civil infrastructure and domestic homebuilding, the opportunities for the steel sector are immense. From research to design, manufacturing, and fabrication, through to installation and construction, the future of Australian steel looks bright. Brighter still when consideration is given to the ever-growing dependence on steel across sectors and the burgeoning of a new era of endless innovative uses to propel Australia towards a new economy.
In an everchanging global landscape, the Australian steel industry needs to be prepared to adapt to advancing technologies, sustainability, and environmental concerns and a rapidly changing economic outlook.
The Australian Steel Convention 2021 brings together key industry leaders and innovators to discuss opportunities, showcase industry successes and examine what the future can and will look like.
Join us in Sydney on 12-14 September 2021 at Four Seasons Hotel Sydney for the 2-day program:
The Australian Steel Convention 2021 will feature sessions that cover:
- How Australia’s steel industry is a global competitive advantage through its ability to influence key market sectors including agriculture, defence, energy, and healthcare.
- The future of steel in a post-coronavirus world; how Australia’s manufacturing pivot can create a new era for the economy.
- Case studies showing how a strong domestic steel industry is an important factor in developing a vibrant commercial and industrial market
- The sustainability effect: How resource scarcity, climate change and community expectations are changing government and industry priorities for more local manufacturing, traceable and sustainable processes, and operating models.
- The emergence of SMART technologies into optimised operations and trusted supply chains e.g. sensors, automation, intelligent robotics, embedded electronics
Program and speaker information to be announced in the coming weeks. Stay up to date with the latest Convention developments by connecting with the ASI on LinkedIn.
Registration information
REGISTRATION FEES:
ASI Member Registration $1249
Non-Member Registration $1449
All fees and charges are quoted in Australian dollars and are inclusive of GST.
Your membership status can be confirmed by contacting membership@steel.org.au
REGISTRATION INCLUSIONS:
Your registration fee includes:
- Attendance to all Convention sessions
- Access to the trade exhibition during open hours
- All onsite catering during scheduled breaks
- 1 x ticket to the Welcome Reception held on Sunday, 12 September 2021
- 1 x ticket to the Gala Dinner held on Monday, 13 September 2021
- Delegate collateral provided as part of the Convention program – delegate bag, program book, name badge etc
Note: Your registration does not include travel, accommodation, or insurances. Full event terms and conditions can be viewed HERE.
Accommodation:
Special convention accommodation rates have been secured at the Convention venue and nearby hotels and can be booked during the registration process.
We hope you can join us in the pursuit of Steel being Vital and Adaptive!
Why you MUST attend!
The Australian steel industry’s premier event
Enhance skills for you and your team while networking with others in the industry and enjoy yourself at the same time!
High profile speakers
The Convention is renowned for its high quality international and Australian speakers, and program sessions filled with in-depth content designed to increase professional development. With the ever-evolving landscape of the construction industry, sessions focusing on sustainability and emerging technologies will be of high interest and value to many of our ACMA members.
The perfect location
Sydney is a key events destination in Australia, earning an enviable reputation for staging successful business, sporting, cultural and large-scale events. The Sydney CBD offers a capital city experience with an amazing nightlife. It offers competitive rates for accommodation, dining, venues and attractions. The Convention will be held at the Four Seasons Hotel, offering quiet luxury with spacious accommodation and compelling service.
Multiplan drives industry bid to recruit more women
With demand for Construction Modellers exceeding supply, there’s never been a better time to attract more women into what has traditionally been a male-dominated industry, says Multiplan Managing Director Kane Nitschke.
As a leader in delivering complex projects through precision modelling and steelwork detailing, Multiplan believes women can help provide the home-grown talent needed to meet growing demand for the latest 3D modelling technology.
“I’d love to see drafting make a comeback in schools as a really cool career choice for both girls and boys, and to see far more opportunities in our industry for women looking to re-train or renter the workforce,” Kane said.
“Steel detailing has traditionally been a male-dominated industry and let’s be honest, it’s sometimes perceived as being a bit old-fashioned, even though Construction Modellers are in high demand.
“Now is the perfect time for change.
“With so many opportunities in Australia for steel modellers in construction and infrastructure, we hope the industry will get behind the drive for greater diversity.”
Multiplan isn’t alone in wanting to see more diversity in the industry. Its aims are perfectly aligned with WA’s Plan for Gender Equality released in January 2021 by the WA State Government.
“Given the ever-growing reliance on detailed 3D construction models, creating more opportunities for women to enter the industry is both timely and necessary,” Kane said.
“As we lose highly experienced modellers and checkers to retirement, the sustainability of our industry relies on attracting the next generation of Construction Modellers looking for a career in the industry.”
Multiplan has a well-established traineeship and work experience program, launching trainee Construction Modellers on a rewarding career path.
The company is also spearheading a plan to establish a new pathway for employment within the Steel Detailing Industry.
“There has been significant growth in construction and infrastructure in Australia, creating a growing need for Construction Modellers who can convert engineering design models into complex detail models and fabrication drawings using the latest technology,” Kane says.
“As we know, excellence in steel detailing is paramount, helping projects proceed on budget and on time.”
Australian construction industry revenue is at $395.1bn, with structural steel fabrication revenue at $6.3bn and demand for structural steel erection services expected to increase through to 2026.
Technology in Steel Detailing
DBM Vircon
DBM Vircon, a global leader in steel, concrete, and rebar modelling and detailing as well as digital engineering, has Technology as one of the main pillars of its growth strategy. The business, headquartered in Brisbane, has offices around the world and has been recognized as a market leader in cutting edge technology for many years. Innovation in thought and tools, like Tekla, Prosteel, Revit, Plant 3D, Navisworks, and iConstruct, are fundamental to the company’s approach, and critical to the accuracy of the complex projects they work on.
Read an article written below by DBM Vircon’s Global General Manager of Technology, Andrew Walker, as he explains the technology that DBM Vircon uses, and how the combination of experience, expertise and technology turn complex data into intelligent and context rich models.
What the Tech?! What Software is Used in Steel Detailing and Why?
Written by Andrew Walker, Global General Manager – Technology
When it comes to steel detailing software packages, DBM Vircon utilizes Tekla Structures and Autodesk Advance Steel to generate our workshop drawings. These 3D modelling platforms enable design, detailing, visualization and documentation for purposes as diverse as architectural and building systems and concrete and rebar, across civil, commercial and industrial projects.
However, while these off-the-shelf steel detailing software packages come complete with a myriad of in-built features and benefits, DBM Vircon customizes the packages to enhance their efficiency and efficacy.
Steel Detailing Software Used by DBM Vircon
Both Tekla Structures and Autodesk Advance Steel enable DBM Vircon to create 3D building information models. These highly accurate 3D models then allow DBM Vircon to produce 2D drawings and other deliverables, like CNC files for plate cutting and drilling.
DBM Vircon goes beyond traditional steel detailing services to deliver full lifecycle solutions, from early conceptual modelling to build-ready plans and data-rich asset management models, by leveraging our expertise with the latest 3D BIM technologies. DBM Vircon elects to use Tekla Structures and Autodesk Advance Steel because both software systems deliver a superior degree of accuracy and flexibility.
What is Tekla Structures?
DBM Vircon has been using Tekla Structures since 1996. In fact, we were one of the first companies to use ‘Xsteel’, as Tekla Structures was known then, and we were the original reseller for Australasia.
Tekla Structures facilitates the creation of precise and data-rich 3D models which are suitable for all stages of a project’s lifecycle, from planning and construction to maintenance and management.
Tekla can create and generate models up to LOD 500 — the highest level possible — making these models truly constructible. Last but by no means least, Tekla models also help facilitate easy collaboration between all stakeholders by being IFC4 certified, supporting software interoperability.
What is Autodesk Advance Steel?
Autodesk Advance Steel is a 3D modelling software that can be used for steel detailing, design, fabrication and construction. One of the key benefits of Autodesk Advance Steel is its bi-directional link with Autodesk Revit, which facilitates a seamless transfer of data between programs for collaboration between engineers and steel detailers.
Both Tekla Structures and Autodesk Advance Steel offer an intelligent design toolset and large library of intelligent parametric elements and connections, which enable automation of repetitive tasks.
Why DBM Vircon Customizes its Own Steel Detailing Software
Early on, DBM Vircon recognized the need to move from 2D models to 3D models. However, to do this, we needed to change our internal processes and workflows.
Whilst standard, off-the-shelf platforms like Tekla Structures and Autodesk Advance Steel are powerful in their own right, DBM Vircon has chosen to customize the modelling environment and develop our own plugins to enhance modelling outcomes, support internal workflows and improve quality assurance and accuracy.
This focus on accuracy is vital, particularly as 3D models are used to collaborate with a variety of trades, from mechanical, electrical and plumbing through to architectural, and there is an exchange of models throughout the design, planning and construction processes.
Superior Quality Assurance
The accuracy of the 3D model that DBM Vircon creates is dependent on the quality of the inputs made to the model. As such, the software development undertaken has focused on the way in which data, solid elements and metadata are inputted into a model, and how that data is automated in terms of validation and the ability to export.
Seamless Management of Data and RFIs
In steel detailing, information is gathered from external sources, including architectural, structural, and mechanical drawings or models. However, there can be misalignment issues between trades and some drawings can be missing critical design information. If there is an issue on the design documents, DBM Vircon must raise a Request For Information (RFI) for clarification.
DBM Vircon has developed many processes regarding RFIs, including the way in which information is requested, how the information is tracked once it is received, and how the information is incorporated into the model. Using these processes helps to guarantee that the information is gathered and tracked in such a way that there is no confusion, cross-over or further missing information. By tracking the RFIs using this method, the final construction model becomes the single point of truth.
Accurate Management of Changes
With steel detailers increasingly involved in projects at an earlier stage of design to reduce the overall construction timeline, 3D models are subject to frequent design iterations adding to the complexity of the modelling process – opening up the possibility for errors. As such, DBM Vircon has developed proprietary methods that enable changes to the model to be tracked throughout the production process. That means if changes are made partway through a project, DBM Vircon’s customized software can handle them efficiently, without disrupting the process, or slowing down the project unnecessarily.
To further manage the modelling and revision process, DBM Vircon has developed software to control who can access a model, and which elements of the model they can access, to eradicate conflicts between modelers. This is particularly pertinent given that DBM Vircon has 10 offices all around the world, all of which might work on a single model simultaneously.
Clarification of Constructability Issues
Whilst off-the-shelf software platforms can produce a 3D model of a finished structure, ready for construction, DBM Vircon has developed its own tools to create models at different stages of construction. For example, if a project has complex cambers and pre-sets for when a structure is being built, the model needs to replicate the different stages of construction. The camber and pre-sets are built into the long and heavy sections that will eventually be pushed down flat, into their final as-built position. With the cambering affecting the fitup of elements, member cuts and connection members must be adjusted to allow for the different phases of erection. DBM Vircon’s tools provide fabricators with the data needed to ensure the erectability of such complex connections.
Conclusion
When it comes to major projects, what matters most to general contractors, owners, and fabricators is usually the contructibility of the asset, and the assurance that both budget and timeline expectations will be met. Like most things these days, the solution to both is likely a great use of technology and proven experience. Customization of technology is one of the critical elements that we use at DBM Vircon to meet the needs of the construction industry to ensure that margins remain uneroded, and our credibility remains as strong as our clients’.
Watkins Steel Workshop Visit
Quite a number of ACMA Queensland members will be attending a series of workshop tours of the manufacturing facilities of Watkins Steel.
Watkins Steel is a Brisbane based steel fabrication company that has been operating for 50 years. Their work includes 3D laser scanning, detailing, material processing, fabrication, and installing of structural steel and metal work structures.
Specialising in small to mid-size structural steel, metalwork, urban artscapes, architectural structures, and refurbishment jobs, Watkins Steel has developed an end-to-end digital workflow including 3D scanning, Hololens augmented reality, material processing lines with machine profiling, beamline operation, and Tekla 3D modelling for steel fabrication and installation.
This process delivers exceptional outcomes by significantly reducing the human error, guess work, and rectification work that costs money and time on construction projects.
Expression of interest was sought a month or so ago with quite a good response received that has enabled us to arrange tours for 7th, 14th & 21st of July. While the tours on these dates are pretty much full we do have a few spots available so if any member is still interested please let us know asap and we will try to fit you in on a date that suits.
If there happens to be expression of interest over and above what the three current dates can accommodate then we could consult with Watkins Steel management to see if an extra tour can be arranged but we could only do this if numbers are reasonable.
Tekla Tantrum
By Clayton Roxborough | Managing Director
Steelcad Drafting Pty Ltd
As most readers of this e-magazine would know, Tekla Structures (Tekla) is a Steel Detailing software used by many Australian steel detailing firms. From sole trader businesses to large, multi-national companies, Tekla is predominant throughout our industry.
Recently announced changes to licencing agreements and a move to a subscription-based, software as a service, delivery model, are a clear signal that Tekla are looking to pull the rug out from under their long-standing customer base.
In recent months, I have fielded many calls from concerned ACMA member companies expressing their concerns and apprehensions about the changes to the Tekla cost structures that have been mooted by Tekla owners, Trimble.
For the sake of transparency, I should disclose that our Steel Detailing firm, Steelcad, has been using Tekla for 25 years and carries a couple of dozen licences across 3 offices.
With its open API, many construction modelling business’ have developed their own applications to enhance the performance and user experience of the “out-of-the-box” software. Some of these developments have altered the functionality of Tekla so distinctly, that should a Tekla modeller choose to relocate from one company to another, they may require many days of training to come to grips with the customisation in use by the new detailing firm.
We would not have stayed with Tekla for as long as we have if we didn’t believe this product is the best on the market. It has always been a stable platform with predictable performance, and we have built our modelling and detailing workflows around the software to the point that it is fully integrated into our production and drawing office management systems. Like many detailing firms, we have invested heavily in the development of applications that accelerate and simplify the operation and management of the 3D software and its output.
Mind you, with an initial purchase price around the $30,000 mark for a perpetual licence, Tekla has always been hellishly expensive. Add to that the $5,000 per licence yearly maintenance bill, the ongoing costs or the Tekla product are also a big pill to swallow.
Nonetheless, my firm, along with countless others across the globe, have continued to acquire, maintain, and use Tekla exclusively for the purpose of steel detailing.
Whilst the capital outlay for and the investment into custom development of the Tekla platform has added considerable asset value to our business, perpetual licence holders were never “locked in” to the annual maintenance bill. (Our latest maintenance bill was over $100,000) If we found ourselves having a bad year, or the whole economy was struggling, a business could choose to not pay the maintenance for all or any of their licences. Then, once circumstances improved and cash flow returned, the business could re-establish the maintenance of their licences and preserve the asset value of their investments.
Now, things have changed.
From the 31st of July this year, you can no longer purchase a perpetual licence of Tekla structures and all new licences will be on a subscription basis only.
The 2021 subscription licence is different to the 2021 perpetual version. Subscription versions have a completely different array of licence types and fee structure. One notable difference is that the new subscription licence will include the precast and rebar packages. Also, the perpetual licences were available in lesser versions, such as “Drafter” (for editing of 2D drawings) and “Construction Modeller” (for project managers) that offered more affordable solutions to suit our drawing office workflows. These lesser versions will not be available in the subscription offering.
From the 31st of December, perpetual licences that have lapsed maintenance agreements will no longer be available for re-establishment. Effectively, if you have any Tekla licence out of maintenance at the end of the year you will never be able to upgrade it. As part of the subscription changes introduced by Trimble, the flexibility for a drawing office to manage these huge maintenance costs has been removed. It’s now all or nothing.
So far as asset value goes, in 2022, a lapsed Tekla licence is worthless. A business will be forced to pay full freight maintenance cost regardless of the value proposition it delivers.
At this point, you may be asking, “so what, I’ve been paying subscription fees for all types of software for years. Why is Tekla so different?” Well, I can tell you now that I’ve done the sums, if my business was to change over from perpetual to subscription, the annual cost of the Tekla in our company would be almost double. And with subscription licences, at the end of the year, the asset value of the Tekla in use in the business would be zero. Without a subscription we could not even open a model.
I’m sure we all know why Tekla is moving to subscription licencing, and it sure isn’t to provide better service to the user. The motives for this change are certainly revenue related, and it’s the motives of Trimble that gives character to their actions.
There are a host of other, concerning, issues that a move to subscription licencing raises with steel detailers, and any other construction modelling firms that utilise Tekla software products, and I would love to go on about it here, but I must close this missive now, before my ranting overtakes my good nature. I would much prefer to remain constructive and positive in the face of this dilemma.
Going forward, I’d like to see the ACMA take a lead role in providing an opportunity for Australian Tekla users to share their concerns and anxieties about the proposed shift to subscription-based licences. So here are a couple of quick ideas I’d like the ACMA to investigate.
- Coordinate an industry survey to gauge impact and fall-out of the proposed changes
- Provide an opportunity for discussions at the Australian Construction Modellers National Forum in September
- Develop a direct, Australian industry response to Tekla management
If you or your company would like to be a part of the conversation, please drop me a line in the Feedback, area of the newsletter.
Steel Detailer Profile: Emidio Giardini
Westplan Drafting | A Lifetime of Change
I have been given the opportunity in this article, to share my thoughts on the evolution of Detail drafting over my 40 plus years in the industry. Prior to this I have never put time aside to actually consider in any detail the transformation of our industry during this period.
Westplan Engineering was established towards the end of 1979. This was a time when most fabrication companies had their own drafting offices and contracting out the work only when the office was at capacity. Because of the very “feast or famine” nature of the industry there was a rise in the use of contract draftsmen who would be called in to boost the workforce when needed and let go as soon as the work was done. This was obviously a good outcome for the company. It was also a golden opportunity for the more adventurous draftsman to set up his own office and tender for the work to be done in their own office. This was again an advantage to the fabricator because it cut down their overheads and to a large extent the responsibility of manning levels in having to carry draftsmen when not required.
It was at this time that I saw my opportunity and with 3 other draftsmen set up Westplan Engineering.
I had been working as a production Engineer with Transfield, one of the largest fabricators in Australia at that time. I saw from the drawings that came past my eyes that we could perhaps improve on the product, so took the initiative, set up office and we were away. Today, we are arguably the oldest surviving company under original ownership.
Over the past 40 plus years our industry has evolved to such an extent that it is unrecognizable from the early years. From a technological perspective we have gone from the drawing board to CAD drafting (Autocad) in the late eighties, 3D modelling in the early nineties and the annual updates to the present day. The following comments that I make are from a Western Australian perspective, some will say they are biased but I would stand by them.
In the eighties and nineties there were innovations and practices developed here in Western Australia that were leading the way in which detail drafting was to evolve. These pioneering practices involved the establishment of the ‘fittings method’ many years ahead of the national status quo, a move away from B1 sized sheets to A3 format sheets and taking advantage of the A3 photocopies becoming cheaper in the market. This single event gave us the opportunity to place one detail on one sheet which at the time was unique, this was linked to a drawing number forming the basis of a crude but effective database. Similarly the fitting sheets enabled mass production of components in the workshop.
My own company originated the placing of bolts required on the beams in a little box on the actual assembly drawing, which then made the creation of bolt lists much easier. The location of the bolts could then be shown very simply on marking plans. All this we did on 2D drawings. Today anyone using Tekla or any 3D modelling package will recognize how it came into being. The introduction of Autocad in the eighties really only automated the manual processes. I described it as a drawing machine with a memory but nothing else. If you were an average draftsman on the drawing board you became a very neat average draftsman.
The major change in our industry occurred when Tekla and Strucad hit the market. We were introduced to Tekla by a man well known to most at DBM Vircon. Vince Rehbein. At the time Vince could have been considered a computer detailing agnostic but he still managed to convince me to buy a few packages simply by walking into my office on his way home from London and extolling its virtues so convincingly he could have sold me a used car.
Our experience with Tekla was very positive. Tekla always allowed us input into the continual development of the software to improve it in any way we could. We adapted Tekla in ways that even they did not think possible. Generating grating and precast panel drawings even when they would say to us “we can’t do it yet”. It was simple to used 32 thick plate for the floor and then change the description or 150 thick plate for a precast concrete panel. It is sad that today we appear to be driven by the software developers and the licensing agreements and these changes in many cases has devalued our initial investments in the software.
The Drafting Revolution
In the early noughties, after many years of trying to establish a drafting relationship with the project proponents project team, this concept started to fly. Obviously the larger companies benefited the most as they had the resources and most of the manpower. Many mid-sized companies were asked to assist by supply additional manning to the bigger projects which assisted the lead drafting companies to get ahead. The downside of all this, unfortunately, was that once the project started to wind down these mid-sized companies were the first to go.
The added negative to this was that many lost their clients and were not able to expand to any significant degree and many lost a lot of their experienced staff to the companies they had assisted. Furthermore, the only available work came from fabricators on commercial projects that had far lower margins. This was further exacerbated by the larger firms sourcing low cost centres overseas and hence forcing rates down locally. Initially this move to overseas links was forced by the large mining companies but this has obviously changed the local landscape forever. Was the change a good thing or not? I think this is dependent on who you ask. It was extremely good for those that had large organizations and expanded overseas but not good for those working locally and being forced to work for the lower unsustainable rates or close shop.
In the last 10 years we have seen the rise of local shop-fronts for offshore detailing or direct overseas companies infiltrating our industry. After many years of lobbying government departments for their hypocrisies on local content or participation, the best I achieved was a heart attack about 6 years ago and a sore head from bashing it against walls. Much to my personal distaste I am now forced to accept that to survive we must adapt and accept the reality of it all. I have and so will others. I have turned 70 so this has become quite easy to do.
The Future and Regrets
The new generation of draftsmen should now be re-classified as modellers to reflect their true vocation.
It is not easy to compare the value of a CAD operator versus a draftsman and perhaps we shouldn’t. I do miss the fact that CAD operators have lost the ability to think outside the modelling envelope. I often wonder how many could now draw a complex transfer chute with liners and impact plates using the board or Autocad by mathematical means. I would love to be proven wrong in this assumption.
I believe we are on the edge of a new era where modellers will get their due respect and remuneration. This will mean that rates locally will have to increase so that more companies can increase their intake of new blood to carry them forward. Shop front companies must recognize this and quote their tenders at a more realistic local rate so that others who do not go overseas have a realistic chance to compete.
I also still believe that the government has a large role to play in ensuring that certainly government projects do not benefit offshore firms to the extent they do today.
My best wish is that I was 15 years younger, so that I could put what I have learned into practice, learn to live with the new reality in running an office where it is important to understand the legalities of the contract we enter into: how we handle variations and claims and all the new complexities we face to survive. There was a bygone era where it was possible to run a company single handed. That being, to complete the drafting or checking, the document control, process the variations and claims, answer the phones and still have time for a beer after work on a Friday with the boys.
WA Inaugural Introduction
Collaborative Networking Event for Individuals in the Steel Detailing Industry
The 25th of February 2021 called for the Australian Construction Modellers Association (ACMA) – WA Inaugural event. It was the first of its kind in WA, open to everyone with an interest in design, construction modelling and detailing.
The Australian Construction Modellers Association (ACMA) works to ensure that steel detailers and construction modellers are skilled in the latest industry standards, develop a network of peers and have the best ongoing professional development available in Australia. This is achieved through informative, and inclusive events held virtually and nation-wide!
The WA event saw presentations from Emidio Giardini from Westplan on the Yagan Square and Kalbarri Walkway Projects, as well as Simon Schmitt, Ben Collins and Ben Ruane from DBM Vircon on the Hong Kong Airport.
Key presentations points from Emidio were a very honest take on the current industry environment we all work in, how client expectations on what a construction modelling company does and are responsible for have changed over time. With the steady demise of design documentation coupled with the client’s expectation of a fast tracked schedule, it is as important as ever that Emidio’s valuable lessons learnt are heard and understood.
To this end the ACMA have a charter on the roles and responsibilities of the construction modeller. With the support of the ACMA, this remains a key focus for all members in ensuring this document is an accepted industry standard and a reference guide that all in the construction modeller community are helping to drive. Any feedback on this document is always welcomed by the ACMA.
Key presentations points from Simon, Ben and Ben were around the use of technology, the development of new workflows and the use of parametric component driven connections to deliver mega projects in the most efficient way possible. The Hong Kong Airport 3RS project was used as the case study with the team presenting how the 54,000 sticks of steel are being connected on the project.
Both presentations had a great participation from the audience for the Q&A sessions showing the topics discussed resonated with everyone.
Overall the evening was a success with representation from companies all over WA, including DBM Vircon, Multiplan, Mechwest, 3DE Global, Austruct, Isolinear, SFDesign, Steelworx, Minstruct, Westplan and more.
This event (and subsequent regular ACMA events) aimed to provide people within our industry with a great forum for networking and establishing a more collegiate industry. Does this sound like something you are after or would like to help achieve? Come along to our next event or reach out for more information.
We look forward to further opportunities to grow ACMA in WA where we can foster excellence in the steel detailing industry through communication and understanding.
As an industry body the ACMA is always looking for opportunities to promote best practice techniques and innovation within the construction industry. Following is an interesting article on the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal that appeared in the ANCR (Australian National Construction Review) magazine where DBM Vircon, one of our long standing members, were engaged to manage the Digital Engineering on the project.
Brisbane International Cruise Terminal
DBM Vircon
The new Brisbane International Cruise Terminal incorporates world-class passenger facilities, and as the newest gateway to South-East Queensland, will deliver a major long-term economic boost to the region’s growing cruise industry.
To aid the construction of the terminal, DBM Vircon were engaged to manage Digital Engineering on the project. Model production commenced in May 2019 and was originally focused on coordinating the work of different trades during the construction phase.
“We started by drafting a management plan to set the rules for the subcontractor models,” said Gabor Gulyas, Operations Manager. “The models we received from the subcontractors were then federated into a single model. We also provided some models to fill in the gaps of elements not modelled by the subcontractors, such as piling, subsurface utilities and topography.”
DBM Vircon structured the models to enable automated federation and quality auditing, streamlining the model production and review process.
The completed models were used to identify potential clashes and coordination issues on the project. “We utilised a platform to identify issues, assign them to specific individuals and track them to completion. Results were represented in smart dashboards for ease of communication” said Gabor.
“By collaborating to find potential issues before they occur we avoid the lost productivity associated with onsite decision making, demolition and rework,” he said.
During the project, DBM Vircon identified approximately 500 potential issues and 75,000 clashes which were resolved prior to construction, preventing potentially costly rework and avoiding the delays and indirect costs which would have otherwise resulted.
George Green, Services Manager of the main contractor, Hindmarsh, said “Thanks to the efforts of DBM Vircon the construction process was made much more efficient and we did not see any significant issues during construction.”
As-built verification processes proved that the building was constructed within tolerance of the coordinated design, proving that conflict checking processes were efficient. This process ensured that the model can be used as an as-built digital representation of the terminal.
The digital model was also used to engage with Australian Border Force (ABF) during construction. “We created model views for every CCTV camera in the terminal,” said Gabor. “ABF reviewed and commented on the camera positions so the design could be adjusted accordingly.”
“The additional clarity and insights afforded to us by DBM Vircon’s digital model gave us total confidence that the BICT project would meet our operational requirements,” said a representative of ABF.
Other benefits of the digital model produced by DBM Vircon included:
- Views of the main passenger routes through the terminal were produced to improve wayfinding and make signage more intuitive;
- Installed elements were checked against the model using photo comparisons and laser point cloud surveys to confirm the construction was in accordance with the design intent;
- Maintainable asset information is stored in the model to enable future use of the model during the operational phase of the facility;
- 360-degree panoramic renders were produced from the model for marketing, stakeholder and public engagement.
With the successful completion of the terminal construction, the many benefits of digital model production became clear. “The production of the digital model by DBM Vircon helped us achieve a better and more efficient project with benefits not just during the construction phase but also moving forward into asset operation,” said Peter Cane, Project Manager from Port of Brisbane.
DBM Vircon is a premier construction modelling, detailing and digital engineering company. With 850 professionals in multiple locations worldwide, they offer an unparalleled blend of highly skilled experts and low-cost resources. They excel at delivering projects across all industry sectors, producing value-for-money deliverables in any format.
For more information contact DBM Vircon, Level 1, A1, 32 Cordelia Street, South Brisbane QLD 4101, phone 07 3503 5800, anzenquiries@dbmvircon.com, website www.dbmvircon.com
Profile: Chris Matcham Draughtsman
Retired 31 March 2021
After finishing High school December 69, I started work in January 1970 at the age of 16, I was employed by Coldstream Refrigerators P/L as a Trainee Mechanical Draughtsman,
My equipment in the early days 2 Staedtler clutch pencils, 4 Rotring tube pens, slide rule, razor blade, soft & hard eraser. The company supplied the counterweight drawing board & a swivel chair.
I was employed as a cadet/Trainee Mechanical Draughtsman by Coldstream Refrigerators P/L. I also enrolled at the School of Mechanical Engineering for a Mechanical Technicians Certificate (Drafting Option), which I completed in 1976.
Coldstream was great start; they did everything to make refrigerators from their own design & drawing office. The workshop consisted of a Pattern making shop & casting foundry, machine shop, sheet metal shop & pressing shop. This was a great introduction to a life in industry where I learned a lot about different trade disciplines. It was sad that a successful business started in the 20’s made great robust fridges didn’t progress & finally went in to voluntary liquidation. Fortunately, I could see this coming by observing product output & after 2 years I resigned.
In 1972 I was employed by Proline / Superlift P/L who Designed & Fabricated Pneumatic & Hydraulic Machinery. The position was as a junior drafter detailing parts for hydraulic machinery, Front End Loader/Backhoes, Tip trucks, Cranes & the similar machinery. 2 years later along with 8 other drafters at Proline & many drafters from Chrysler Ford & GMH and other businesses I was made redundant – it was when Gough Whitlam’s Labour Party removed the Design & Development taxation incentives from businesses. It was a terrible time for Mechanical Engineers & Drafters.
Fortunately, Paraweld Pty Ltd, were looking for a Junior Structural Draftsman, I had nothing to lose & applied & gained employment there. To this day I am so thankful to Paraweld & Gerry O’Loan who assisted me with the ins & outs of Structural Steel. I really learned plenty from working alongside the workshop where feedback was swift, & not all good at first, they were hard men the Boilermakers & Steel Riggers & they let you know when you made their life difficult. It was there that I also learned empathy for the issues of the men in the workshop & on site with print sizes & layouts to make their life easier. If you listened & adjusted the way you worked, they were always willing & helpful to assist when you messed things up. (what can I say? nobody is perfect.) While at Paraweld I was the first person to buy a calculator (Texas Instruments) with trig functions & rechargeable batteries, up until then they used Smoleys Tables & adding machines.
Eventually Paraweld was taken over by ATCO Structures (as well as general Structural Steel Paraweld manufactured all the skids for ATCO transportable buildings) & I was transferred to head up the Structural Steel Estimating Department. I did this for couple of years & wanted to get in to Construction Estimating & moved to Perry Constructions at Mile End SA. I was there when Santos was building the Liquids project (Compressing gas to liquid for pipe transport to Stoney Point) & Perry Construction were providing the structure for the Pipe Racks & buildings, when the offsite portion of the work was completed work in Adelaide was tight & I was made redundant. During my time at Perry’s, I was in contact with many of the project managers of the Santos Liquids Project (Davy McKee International), I applied for a site job & won the position of Assistant to the Site Office Engineer, my task was to keep the site Project Library & Documents up to date & collate all the handover documents from Davey McKee to Santos – drawings, manuals & spare parts books, guarantees etc. I stayed until my position was finished February 1984.
During 84 & 85 I had 18 months special projects coordinator with Juralco (Expanded Aluminium Grating & Mesh) I drew the Aluminium roof walkways for the Mt Piper, Eraring & Bayswater Power stations in the Hunter Valley & arranged their fabrication & installation (these are the power stations soon to be decommissioned). This provides an insight into redundancy (where I am at now) seeing major projects which you have worked on being decommissioned). While at Juralco I was approached to manage a small fabrication shop, I thought this was a good opportunity, & took up the position which I did until May 1987 when I resigned to become my own boss.
May 1987 with a drawing board, calculator & set of pens & 2-year-old (Ross) at home, I started Sasteel Drafting Services P/L & started drafting in the spare bedroom at home. 2 Years later I rented an office & employed a trainee & a year later employed another Structural drafter, I built up to 6 drafters, however around 1990-91 a building industry slow caused me to rethink my business, we had 2 very good years but I knew I would be paying bags of tax for the profits & couldn’t survive. To ensure they got their entitlements I offered all employees redundancy pay-out & took them on as contractors, at the end of the year I closed the office & lined & Insulated a shed at home & once again worked alone. Still engaging the contractors remotely for about 3 years. Eventually I restarted an office reengaging several contractors, this worked ok until my main client made offers the contractors couldn’t refuse & they left me. I continued alone until around 2000, when a bright shiny new toy came out – Tekla X-Steel 5.4 then my troubles really started, I purchased Tekla, I completed about 3 small jobs when circumstances conspired & I had taken on a new Trainee Cadet (Jason) –I Could not afford another Tekla, so back to the drawing board to train the cadet.
The next few years we worked on drawing boards using AutoCAD as a calculator for complex shapes, 2005 my son Ross joined as a trainee & we were being pressured to provide NC / DXF files, so purchased 3 copies of ProSteel using it for 4 Years. It then became obvious that we needed to use Tekla to compete, so while in house at Samaras I purchased an additional copy & updated my existing copy and have been using Tekla Structures since then. During this time there was a quiet period & I approached by ASD to see if they needed any extra men, they took on Jason for a period it was closer to his home & by mutual agreement he was employed by ASD.
For the last 5 years my son Ross & I have worked from rented office space. Ross has been offered employment at a Steel Fabrication facility in Adelaide & has accepted, I was going to retire at the EOFY, but now is the right time.
Over the years I have trained 3 drafters, David, he left after about 3 years went back to High School finished his matriculation, went to Uni Studied Engineering & now has successful Engineering Consultancy Business (RCI) employing over 10 Engineers. Jason who is a respected Modeller/Drafter at ASD & Ross who is employed as a Modeller/Drafter at Gant & Sons P/L.
Along the way I have many men that have assisted me & it would be remiss not to acknowledge them. Gun drafters who started the AISD(SA)Inc & paved the way for contract drafting in SA, Gerry O’Loan, Peter Pashley, Vic Knott, Barry Evans, Larry O’Hehir, Peter Cross, Alex Packa, Brian Baldock, Nick vander Schaal & Karl Jagodzinski. The drafting association in all its iterations and the members have been of enormous help as a sounding board, I would urge all Modeller/Drafters to join if only for the fellowship. Once a month meal & drink to decompress with others in the same situation saves one’s sanity.
I note Barry & Vic who were Secretary & Treasurer of AISDSA for many years, were also the instigators of AISDSA contacting ASI to form an Australian Steel Drafting Association which is now ACMA. (Barry also collaborated with others on the Australian Detailers Handbook produced by ASI)
Today I consider myself lucky to have finished High School and started the job of my choice & continue with employment until retirement at the age of 67, however there have been a few bumps in the road along the way, but over-all I feel content with what life has given me.
**
Draughtsman AKA Draftsperson, Drafter, Modeller.
AISDSA – Australian Institute of Structural Detailers (South Australia)
ASI – Australian Steel InstituteACMA – Australian Construction Modellers Association
Just for Laughs
