Facilities management can be extremely challenging, especially when working with aging infrastructure and regulatory pressures that force maintenance teams to act efficiently, quickly, precisely and with safety in mind. While traditional methods for repairs and maintenance have gotten the industry this far, new technology and processes are necessary to keep up with the next generation of production. For leading companies, 3D scanning has become a revolutionary tool for meeting those demands.
3D Scanning & Facilities Management
3D scanning is the process of digitizing a physical entity, including its dimensions and details, before generating a 3D model. 3D scanning typically involves multiple technologies, including laser scanning, structured light scanning, photogrammetry and more, to fully capture an item. This workflow allows objects of any size to be digitized for different applications, from tiny machine screws to entire facilities. And now, 3D scanners can be handheld, compact devices that are lightweight and maneuverable.
3D scans of physical objects can be analyzed, modified, tested, and reproduced. From product prototyping to manufacturing, 3D scanning cuts the costs and lead times behind object data capture. Highly accurate scans also improve the reliability of processes, while CAD and CAM program compatibility allows for seamless reverse engineering, inspection, and quality control.
3D scanning has the potential to completely reshape the way facilities think about repairs, asset maintenance, lifecycles and more. In order to make the most out of facilities, they must be kept active and running as consistently as possible. In the past, when a part in an assembly line broke or a pipe was found corroded, the response involved manual inspections and hand-drawn sketches to plan repairs. These outdated methods are time-consuming, prone to error and often require parts of the facility to be shut down temporarily, halting operations and costing money.
With portable 3D scanners, technicians can now capture detailed digital models of damaged or aging parts in minutes. This not only eliminates the need for manual sketching but also provides far more precise data for more accurate and reliable repairs. The technology also means fewer disruptions and downtime, leading to safer operations.
For companies like the Colt Group, a leading provider of leak repair and mechanical services across the U.S., 3D scanning has become a groundbreaking tool for meeting those demands. The Colt Group deals with the challenge of rapidly repairing leaking piping systems at continuous cycle production facilities. Previously, Colt Group engineers would arrive on-site at a customer’s refinery or plant and measure the affected areas of piping with manual sketches. Once ready, these drawings or 2D PDFs would be sent to its engineering team so they could design the repair solution. This process took multiple team members several hours.
Since adopting Artec Leo, the team has been able to use its built-in display and wireless functionality to capture as-fitted geometries in the field and customize repair solutions to meet client needs. More accurate measurements have meant fewer reworks, while faster data capture has allowed them to deliver a more premium, accelerated service. The new process also led to an 18-times faster workflow, saving the team time and money while minimizing the environmental impact of leaks.
Beyond on-the-spot repairs, 3D scanning has the potential to impact many different aspects of the facility management process. Some of the wider advantages include:
- Proactive maintenance planning: 3D scans can be captured and compared over time to track equipment wear and identify issues before they become failures.
- Improved documentation: High-resolution digital records simplify compliance and audit processes.
- Material and environmental savings: 3D scans enable better planning, meaning fewer mistakes, less waste, and minimized emissions due to leakage or forced shutdowns.
- Scalability across sites: Once a digital workflow is established, it can be replicated and standardized across multiple locations.
The Future of 3D Scanning in Facilities Management
As facilities increasingly adopt better digital tools to drive operational efficiency, 3D scanning is emerging as a high-impact solution that can improve the entire product chain. Colt Group’s application of the technology shows how even complex, safety-critical environments can benefit from more agile, data-driven workflows.
For facility managers, engineers, and maintenance teams looking to optimize performance while reducing environmental and operational risk, 3D scanning is proving to be hugely valuable.