3D Scanning for a Cooler Changeout

Case Study: 3D Scanning for A Cooler Changeout

Over the last several years, HorizonPSI has modeled all our equipment in 3D, allowing us to provide 3D layouts for all of our system projects. In order to offer even more value to our customers, we’ve now begun to add 3D scanning to our project engineering capabilities for existing plant layouts, structures and buildings.

Recently, we were contracted to replace a worn-out cooler for a PVC pipe manufacturer. This is a difficult project because the cooler is not small and finding the space and route to remove the used equipment and install new can be a headache. Often times, other equipment or structures need to be removed and reconstructed later to create the space needed to replace these coolers. Our engineering group used a LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) scanner to map the area and then recreate it virtually to create the most efficient method for removal and replacement.

As you can see from the animation below, we were able to plan a route with the least amount of impact to the existing cooler arrangement. Initially, the customer thought they would have to remove the entire structure next to the cooler but as you can see, due to an accurate scan, we were able to remove the old cooler and install the new one with a much more efficient installation plan.

The use of 3D modeling saves both time and effort. When considering opportunities at an existing facility, capturing critical measurements with conventional methods can take days or weeks. Verifying the accuracy of the data then requires additional effort. When adding production equipment, routing or rerouting piping, or identifying utility lines, having an accurate model of the plant layout is crucial for a smooth installation. By using LiDAR to quickly measure objects in a target environment, the resulting measurement data is combined with high-definition images to create a photorealistic three-dimensional model of the space and all it contains.

Our engineers can then use the resulting Building Information Model (BIM) to design the layout of equipment and convey lines necessary for the project. Through a virtual execution of all construction phases, interferences can be found, material and component planning can be improved, and systems can be optimized. This information better prepares HorizonPSI and our customers for installation, which reduces delays that create down time and increase project costs.

Our engineering team is excited about this new technology and has executed very efficient installations because of it. HorizonPSI is always focused on innovation because after all, our business is your business.