BIM software aids steel structures delivery for Rio Games

Two major arenas in use for the current Olympic Games in Rio De Janeiro were built with the help of building information modelling (BIM) software provider Trimble’s ‘Tekla’ solutions.

A local Brazilian steelwork company was hired to work on the Future Arena (pictured) and the Youth Arena. The firm used Tekla Structures software for design, detailing and fabrication in order to deliver these complex projects under strict deadlines.

The software has allowed the company to accurately model steel structures quicker, with a smoother fabrication process and reduced time and costs.

A Trimble spokesperson said: “The Youth Arena in Deodoro has many tubular structures. Tekla software has specific tools for modelling, cutting and weld preparations of these tubes. Using the right solution, all of these structures demanded zero rework.”

Approximately 2,500t of steel was needed for the Youth Arena – the Olympic venue for basketball and fencing. The 70m long tubular latticed trusses for the stands roof, which weighed 40t, were manufactured in parts, pre-assembled, welded on site, and then lifted into place with two cranes.

Meanwhile on the Future Arena, which has an area of 1.18 million square meters, approximately 2,700t of steel, divided into 1,400t for the roof, 1,100t for the stands and another 200t for stairs and access ramps was used.

This temporary facility is the venue for handball and goalball and will later be disassembled and transformed into four schools. Its longest free span is 112m.

Tekla BIMsight was used on the arenas, allowing project participants to combine their models, check conflicts and share information to ensure any problems were identified and resolved during the design phase.