BIM Clash Detection Services — Navisworks Coordination Reports
We identify and resolve spatial interferences between structural steel, architectural shells, and MEP services before construction begins.
What are BIM clash detection services?
BIM clash detection services overlay structural, architectural, and MEP models in a unified 3D environment like Navisworks to run collision checks. Checker engineers identify physical and clearance interferences between trade designs, documenting coordinates and component marks to resolve spatial conflicts before field installation.
At Total Engineering Consultants, we manage the entire coordination process. We run clash checks using specific trade tolerances, verify coordinate alignments, and write clear RFI requests. This systematic coordination helps general contractors resolve spatial conflicts before subcontractors mobilize, reducing field delays.
CLASH COORDINATION DELIVERABLES
Navisworks Collision Audits
Running automated clash audits using Navisworks Manage, checking trade models for interferences and clearance violations.
Trade Coordination Models
Consolidating structural, architectural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical models into a unified master model.
RFI Coordination Sheets
Drafting clear, coordinate-specific requests for information (RFIs) detailing proposed geometry modifications for engineer review.
Clash Resolution Reports
Color-coded, structured PDF reports detailing resolved and outstanding clashes with component marks and viewpoints.
CLASH TYPES & WORKFLOWS
Hard Clashes
Physical intersections where two components occupy the same space (e.g., steel beams through HVAC ducts).
Soft/Clearance Clashes
Violations of code-required clearances (e.g., electrical conduits run too close to hot water lines).
Workflow Sync
Coordinating models from LOD 300 design stage up to LOD 400 fabrication release.
Drawing Updates
Syncing clash resolution fixes back into the 2D shop drawings and general arrangement plans.
OUR CLASH DETECTION WORKFLOW
We systematically overlay, test, and resolve design interferences, ensuring trade models are completely clash-free.
Model Collection
Obtain architectural plans, structural steel frames, and MEP trade models in IFC or native formats.
Master Integration
Overlay files in Autodesk Navisworks, checking coordinate alignment and grid reference datums.
Automated Clash Audit
Run clash tests with specific tolerance settings (e.g., 1/2") to identify physical intersections.
RFI & Coordination review
Compile clashes into report sheets, coordinate with designers to adjust layouts and solve interferences.
Coordinated Release
Verify clash-free status in a final test, exporting updated models and clean 2D sheets.
REGIONAL CLASH AUDIT EXPERTISE
We adapt model tests to match municipal design clearances and local structural loading specifications.
We coordinate industrial steel structures and complex piping skids, verifying clearances for local petrochemical facilities.
Total Engineering Consultants delivers multi-trade clash detection for high-rise commercial structures, ensuring duct and plumbing spaces align.
We check tight urban high-rise models for structural and MEP interferences under NYC building codes.
Our team coordinates seismic frame models and duct layouts to meet California building codes and seismic rules.
We support southeastern contractors with commercial facility coordination, preventing field RFI delays.
CLASH COORDINATION FAQS
What are BIM clash detection services?
BIM clash detection services overlay structural, architectural, and MEP models in a unified 3D environment like Navisworks to run collision checks. Checker engineers identify physical and clearance interferences between trade designs, documenting coordinates and component marks to resolve spatial conflicts before field installation.
What is the difference between a hard clash and a soft clash?
A hard clash occurs when two components occupy the same spatial coordinates (e.g., a steel column passing through a plumbing line). A soft (or clearance) clash occurs when components violate code-specified or installation-required safety zones (e.g., an electrical panel missing its front clearance zone).
Why is BIM clash detection critical for construction projects?
Catching interferences in a digital model costs pennies. Finding the same clash in the field during installation halts work, requires crane delays, causes component scrappage, and results in expensive engineering redesigns, often saving 18% to 21% of the overall budget.
What software do you use for clash detection?
We use Autodesk Navisworks Manage for automated clash testing, model aggregation, and coordination reports, alongside Autodesk Revit and Tekla Structures for modeling fixes.
How do you document identified clashes?
We compile all clashes into Navisworks HTML/PDF clash reports. Each clash is listed with its unique Revit/Tekla ID, grid coordinates, component descriptions, and 3D viewpoints, along with actionable RFI notes.
Do you host trade coordination meetings?
Yes. We participate in online trade coordination meetings with the project manager, general contractor, and subcontractors to review clashes and align on design resolutions.
GET A BINDING CLASH DETECTION QUOTATION
Outsource your BIM clash audits and trade coordination to Total Engineering Consultants. Send your structural designs or layouts and receive a comprehensive pricing proposal within 24 hours.