Industrial plant scanning

When an industrial facility is modernised, new equipment installed or piping replaced, the main problem is not knowing the exact existing condition. Changes made over decades are often not reflected in the drawings. Laser scanning captures densely packed pipework, cable racks, steel structures and equipment completely and with millimetre accuracy.

At oil and gas, refining, chemical, power, food and other plants the work is carried out without stopping production and in compliance with site health and safety rules. The scanner measures heights workers cannot reach and zones near hot or moving equipment from a distance, which improves safety.

From the point cloud we produce 3D models of piping and equipment, isometrics, plans and sections. By comparing a new design model with the scan, clashes are detected at the design stage, and field cutting and fitting during installation is kept to a minimum.

Scan data is also used to check tank geometry and deformation and the verticality of structures. Measurement accuracy is 2–6 mm.

When you need it

• Plant modernisation or expansion is planned
• Accurate dimensions are needed to install new equipment and piping
• Existing drawings do not match the actual condition
• The design model must be checked for clashes with existing plant
• Deformation of tanks and structures needs monitoring

What's included

• Safety induction and permits for the site
• Terrestrial laser scanning of the plant
• Registration and tie-in to the plant coordinate system
• 3D modelling of piping and equipment
• Plans, sections and isometrics
• Clash check against the design model

How we work

1. Defining the scope and scan areas
2. Obtaining work permits and safety briefing
3. Field scanning
4. Processing, modelling and clash analysis
5. Delivery and walkthrough of results

Deliverables

• Georeferenced point cloud of the plant
• 3D model (DWG, RVT, IFC or agreed format)
• Plans, sections and isometrics
• Clash and deformation report