Steelwork Design | CAD Services |

Computer Aided Design Services

The benefits of Computer Aided Design in the form of 2D CAD
were introduced into BH-F in 1983.
Efficiency ,accuracy and repeatability on products with
standard configuration was greatly enhanced compared to
hand drawings. This was achieved by producing a database of
parts which could be used many times in various configurations
to produce the necessary assembly drawings.

A major innovation was to add intelligence to the stored parts
enabling Bills of Material to be generated automatically
whilst creating the drawing, a feature we developed with
the software supplier.
This was closely followed by linking the CAD system to an MRP system
enabling accurate data transfer to the Purchasing Department.
Since 1986 this way of working has ensured BH-F has been able to
meet customer lead times and provide clear and accurate documentation
for site assembly purposes.
In 1998 and 1999 we introduced into our design function 3D modelling,
the first being a structural steel software package specifically to design
Supporting Steel for forehearths and working ends.
The benefit of seeing the final assembly from any location was
soon realised and we recognised the considerable
potential for mechanism design.
Since its introduction we have prepared the new ESG Feeder,
50 Feeder Removeable Tube Chuck and Clamp and the replacement
50 Feeder Drop Guide Assembly using the 3D modeller
and the results have been astounding.
Each part of the design is evaluated with various " WHAT IF "
scenarios in conjuction with clash detection and dynamic relations
covering the working operation which in turn integrates
better design and function to the product.
A spin off from this is that we are now able to provide technical
documentation in the form of labelled isometric drawings
with exploded isometric views alongside to explain the
assembly procedure much more clearly than a old 2D assembly drawing.
We are now investigating ways of providing the customer with
this new level of documentation with our standard configuration
of refractories which we believe will reduce the need for constant
supervision and shorten the site installation time.