CAD software has revolutionised the construction world in the recent decades. Technical drawing with the help of a CAD program has helped building companies save a lot of time and money. The introduction of BIM and 3D CAD further contribute to this, although doubts remain as to whether 2D CAD or 3D CAD is the right choice. But why would you have to choose?
The use of CAD software makes it possible to create designs of machines, steel constructions and various complex products on the computer. The possibilities of CAD software have expanded considerably over the years, but the biggest change started about 20 years ago with the introduction of 3D CAD.
An increasing number of companies and governmental organisations use BIM in their public tenders. Because BIM works with 3D models, it is necessary to work with 3D CAD. Furthermore, 3D CAD has various advantages compared to 2D CAD. 3D CAD makes it possible to draw complex projects easily, make the drawings easier to read and can prevent errors. Nevertheless, many construction and steel engineering companies still use 2D CAD software and even the old school drawing board appears sometimes.
Most 3D software make it possible to generate workshop drawings and other 2D views. This is useful on the building site or to control the drill-sawing line. In addition, 2D CAD makes it easier and more accurate to modify views, sections and connections. But this is precisely where the shoe pinches. Because exchanging drawings from 2D to 3D is very time-consuming, changes are often only made in 2D. This results in different versions of drawings, with errors and additional work as a consequence. Fortunately, there is a solution for this.
The advantages of combining 3D CAD and 2D? Most suppliers of CAD software will say that it is impossible. HiCAD by ISD Group proves this wrong. With HiCAD you can switch easily from 3D to 2D and back, make changes easily and only in one system.
Do you wonder how HiCAD could help your company to save costs? Download the guide "7 golden tips for a profitable steel engineering company" for more information on HiCAD and other saving tips.