Solution

3D Laser Scanning Fuel Tank Farm

Project Highlights

Project Name:

Location:

Jacksonville, North Carolina

Objective:

Capture precise 3D scans for facility upgrades, Scanned tanks, nozzles, pipes, and pumps

Project Size:

12,000 Sq.Ft.

LOD:

350

Category:

Industrial

Technology Used:

Leica RTC360, TruView Virtual, Autodesk Revit

Project Overview

For a tank farm augmentation project in Jacksonville, North Carolina, accurate measurements were critical so that new equipment could be manufactured off-site and then could be installed very smoothly. Since the fuel storage environment is considered sensitive, on-site manufacturing was not a better option. This is the reason why the 3D laser scanning has become an important part of the whole process.

Client Overview

The client is a small fabrication service provider that focuses on manufacturing and installation. Their expertise in equipment fabrication required measurement accuracy to avoid excessive costs in installation.

Project Highlights

It has been less than 1 day.
Used Leica RTC360 3D laser scanner
Scanned tanks, nozzles, pipes, and pumps for an accurate as-built CAD model.

Process & Execution

Pre-Planning & Site Access

Authorities at the military post were consulted in order to provide permissions and create effective transport routes to the scan site.

On-Site Scanning

RTC360 was used for precise and quick scans of facility’s components and ensuring no project delays.

Data Processing & Model Creation

Processed point cloud data and subsequently an accurate as-built CAD model was ensured as the final project outcome.

Challenges

Restricted Access: One big challenge of the project was military base protocols which also delayed site entry.
Measurement Accuracy: Measurement struggles were also there with off-site manufacturing.

Solutions
How the Result Was Achieved

Pre-Approved Access: Obtained necessary security clearances and followed base protocols to gain entry.
Long Travel to Final Scan Location: RTC360 scanner was utilized for seamless mobility and ease in on-site movement.
Need for High-Precision Measurements in a Fuel Storage Area: Our scanning approach was to obtain precise data, thereby preventing the occurrence of costly fabrication errors.

Results & Benefits

Reduced Risk: The on-site fabrication procedure was removed, which reduced safety hazards in a critical fuel storage location.
High Accuracy: Ensured excellent workmanship in off-site equipment manufacture while reducing rework and installation faults.
Complete Model Delivery without disruption: Client received a detailed as-built CAD model easily for the streamlined work requirements ahead.

Solution

Key Insight

The project was completed very quickly, safely, and accurately, utilizing 3D laser scanning technology and off-site processing and installation. The portable scanning setup allowed efficient access to restricted areas while early data capture reduced design errors and fabrication delays.