ITA-AITES − BIM in tunnelling – Guideline for mechanised and conventional tunnels

This guideline has been initiated by the International Tunnelling Association (ITA) Working Group (WG) 22 to support BIM implementation in the tunnelling industry. It provides recommendations which are to be adapted according to the availability of corresponding best practice experiences for all Project parties in order to support the adoption of BIM within a tunnelling Project.

This guideline is intended to be used by all engineers and owners to provide a reference framework for the implementation of BIM for tunnel Projects. It focuses on the implementation of BIM for segmentally lined mechanically bored tunnels and conventional tunnels. This guideline primarily covers the implementation of heavy civil elements for a tunnel Project. For more general information concerning BIM and its use in underground construction, the reader is referred to more general guidelines such as The German Tunnelling Committee’s (DAUB’s) “Building and Operation of Underground Structures – BIM in Tunnelling” or similar documents as provided in Section 16.

Specific recommendations concerning the modelling of non-civil works, e.g., mechanical, electrical, automation, or control systems, or Project-specific internal structures, e.g., concrete infills, plenum walls, duct-banks, smoke ducts, etc. are not provided.

This guideline is not intended to contest Employer’s Information Requirements or local best practise. It is only intended to alleviate ambiguity that may exist due to general definitions in the Employer’s Information Requirements or provide reference to owners for the development of their Requirements.

It is expected that the BIM’s capabilities will continue to expand as new BIM technology is developed. This version of this guideline is, however, based on a review of current international practise of BIM in tunnelling. As such, this document is subject to updates in consequent versions.