Precision, reliability and punctuality - these skills are crucial in the metal construction industry. Nowadays, the necessary efficiency can be achieved with a smooth, digital 3D workflow. Haslinger GmbH Metallbau + Krantechnik has accepted this challenge and initiated the digital transformation throughout the company.
In Uttigkofen, Haslinger mainly builds steel platforms and systems for industry. The company plans, designs, manufactures and assembles on 14,000m2 in multi-shift operation - from planning to surface coating and assembly, everything comes from a single source. Customer requirements are becoming more complex, and the desired platforms and systems need to be fitted into every last usable corner of the hall. A digital 3D workflow was necessary to meet these requirements.
Finding the right tools
The process began with the replacement of the 2D drawing program with parametric 3D modeling software. Michael Stöger, project manager of the metal construction division at Haslinger Metallbau + Krantechnik, accompanied this process and tested products from various manufacturers before purchasing them. The BIM solution Tekla Structures from Trimble impressed with its intuitive operation and the ability to work with several planners simultaneously on the same model.
The software covers all relevant steps from planning to construction. Information can be efficiently created, combined, managed, shared and inaccuracies in the construction documents reduced. Today, Michael Stöger programs and adapts Tekla Structures to production so that the required data can be fed into the machines. Thanks to the seamless integration of data with other project participants, software solutions and digital tools, the company has a seamless digital workflow with a high degree of automation.
There used to be a particularly tricky process phase at Haslinger - the assembly of steel platforms and systems. It was not uncommon for measurement errors and overlooked collisions during measurement to lead to rework and costly delays. To ensure the accuracy of the information, Haslinger decided to implement digital surveying tools, including the Robotic Totalstation (RTS 673) and Trimble's X7 3D laser scanner. The acquisition of these surveying systems eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming rework. The scanners are able to accurately capture construction situations at every stage of the project.
Digital workflows from measurement to installation
At the start of the project, the laser scanner creates a point cloud of the spatial conditions down to the smallest detail within a few minutes, eliminating the need for subsequent measurements in the subsequent planning process. Once the measurements have been taken, the scan and key data, such as the dimensions of the stage or system, are imported into Tekla Structures. This is then modeled and positioned in the virtual hall. As soon as a rough layout has been created, it is sent to the customer for an initial assessment. If any adjustments are required, the statics of the structure are checked in compatible structural analysis software and the required thickness of the steel is determined at the same time. Once the final 3D model has been approved by the customer, the plans are drawn up. This process is automated to such an extent that it usually only takes one day for the plans to be ready for production, including the ordering of materials. For production, only the Tekla model data then needs to be fed into the laser cutting, burning and drilling systems and other required machines.
The Tekla 3D model is used for the last time during installation: for marking on the total station and on the fitter's tablet to support him. The model makes it easier for them to find their way around during installation and, if necessary, view the smallest screws in detail. With the help of the total station, the fitters can measure the supports with millimetre precision, save themselves the tedious work with the cutting scaffold and work more precisely right from the start. This planning and production process and the associated low risk of errors provides security and saves time, money and nerves. Thanks to the optimized process from recording the scan data to installation, it only takes a few weeks from the time the measurements are taken in the customer's hall.
Save time and minimize errors
For Haslinger Metallbau + Krantechnik, the efficient use of Tekla Structures enables precise construction and reduces inaccuracies in the construction documents. In combination with the 3D laser scanner and the Robotic Totalstation, Haslinger works more productively, has been able to improve quality and reduce costs at the same time. Michael Stöger sees a key reason for the company's success in the assured high quality standard of the products and the guaranteed short delivery times: "Speed is crucial to success in the metal construction industry. Without our 3D tools from Trimble, we would have no chance."
