Digital twins are changing the face of EPC projects. This new technology replicates physical objects, processes, and systems into a virtual world, providing a new angle on project management. Furthermore, digital twins empower EPC firms in the aspect of managing issues with great precision and foresight. This is done by closing the gap that is there between digital simulations and real-world operations. In this article, we will go deep into how digital twins are revolutionizing EPC project execution. So, we will look at its applications in different stages, the benefits they bring, and more.
Digital Twins In EPC: Enhancing Project Planning and Design
Digital twins in EPC project execution show great impact when it comes to the initial stages by giving a great level of insight and accuracy. Let’s learn more about it ahead:
Improved Conceptualization and Feasibility Studies
Digital twins in EPC project execution allow project teams to make virtual representations of the projects that are proposed. It enables them to perform more comprehensive feasibility studies. Furthermore, by simulating multiple scenarios and testing various design options, engineers can identify potential issues early in the process. So, this helps in optimizing design, estimating what the cost will look like, and assessing the overall viability of the project. Additionally, the result is a more realistic project plan that considers a wide range of factors.
Enhanced Design Optimization and Collaboration
Design teams can collaborate better across disciplines and geographical boundaries with digital twins. Furthermore, the technology allows real-time visualization of design changes and their impact on various aspects of a project. So, engineers can quickly iterate the design, conduct a virtual walkthrough, and identify clashes or inefficiencies early on. Moreover, this level of collaboration or visualization gives more optimized designs, reduction in rework, and improvement in efficiency.
Accurate Resource Planning and Scheduling
Digital twins give a platform for resource planning and scheduling by simulating the entire product lifecycle. So, project managers can optimize the allocation of equipment, materials, and also workforce. Furthermore, the technology allows for better sequencing of activities, identification of potential bottlenecks, and an accurate estimation of project timelines. So, this leads to proactive management of resources reducing waste.
Digital Twins In EPC Project Execution: Optimizing Construction and Execution
The application of digital twins in EPC project execution goes beyond just the planning phase. It offers great benefits in the construction and execution stages of EPC projects as well. So, let us find out these benefits in this section:
Real-time Project Monitoring and Control
The digital twin technology provides the ability to track the construction process 24/7 and it reports various parameters as they occur in real-time. It also pulls in data from IoT sensors, drones, etc. So now it’s really easy for the project managers to follow the progress, find variances from the planners, and make some sound decisions. Furthermore, this real-time visualization enables one to have control over how the process is carried out. Moreover, the net effect is more efficient project execution, better results, and fewer delays.
Predictive Maintenance and Risk Mitigation
Digital twins in EPC project execution can foresee and solve issues before they arise. So, it can be understood how long a piece of equipment will last, what safety precautions need to be considered, or what elements of the system will require repairs and why. This is accomplished by studying past data, as well as current data. Additionally, this ability to foresee allows project teams to use proactive methods of management. This improves safety on construction sites. Moreover, it allows for better risk management because teams can run multiple simulations and create contingency plans.
Enhanced Supply Chain Management
Digital twins are transforming supply chain management in EPC projects with end-to-end visibility and predictive insights. It also promotes better communication between suppliers, contractors, and the various project teams. This is through simulating the stream of materials and resources. So, this increased “visibility” allows for better utilization of inventory levels, shorter lead times, and most importantly, the timely delivery of critical parts. Additionally, with the combination of supply chain data and project schedules, the digital twins in EPC project execution allow procurement to be in sync with construction progress. Therefore this allows for fewer delays and better productivity on the project.
Digital Twins In EPC Project Execution: Facilitating Handover and Operations
Digital twin applications in EPC project execution do not stop at the construction phase, but in fact, play a significant role in the project handover and operations. These digital models become a complete database of project data which allows for easier transition and better life cycle asset management. Let’s learn about it more:
Streamlined Project Handover
A digital twin greatly improves the handover process by supplying a full, precise, and current model of the built asset. Furthermore, the virtual model contains all the information of each component, system and subsystem, maintenance history, and operational data. So, all this detailed information makes it a lot easier for the construction group to pass all of that knowledge on to the operations group. It makes sure that the learning curve is not as steep and that the operations group can get up to speed much more quickly. Additionally, the digital twin becomes a single source of the truth. As a result, it leads to minimal discrepancies and everyone having access to the same, correct information.
Efficient Asset Management and Maintenance
During the operational phase, digital twins in EPC project execution continue to provide value with better asset management and maintenance strategies. Furthermore, the virtual model can be constantly fed with operational data. This allows the facility managers to track performance, pinpoint inefficiencies, and make real-time operational adjustments. Moreover, this ability allows for predictive maintenance, where potential issues can be recognized and fixed before a failure or shutdown occurs. Additionally, digital twins afford a comprehensive overview of asset performance. So, it thereby allows for enhanced asset life extension, lowered maintenance costs, and greater operational efficiency.
Continuous Improvement and Optimization
Digital twins in EPC project execution allow perpetual enhancement throughout the lifecycle of an asset. Furthermore, organizations can collect and analyze data from current operations, find points of optimization, and then make improvements. So, this can include a change in operating parameters, an upgrade of a system, or a modification of a process to improve performance. Moreover, digital twins provide a testing platform to simulate these changes and evaluate the effects of such changes before the actual implementation. As a result, digital twin applications in EPC project execution minimize the risks that come along with making any changes. Additionally, this ability for continual optimization allows assets to stay efficient, cost-effective, and in line with the changing demands of the business long after the initial project is done.
To Sum Up
Digital twins in EPC project execution without a doubt provide an incredible amount of visibility, control, and optimization throughout the product lifecycle. It is successful in helping EPC firms to perform the project efficiently, with minimum risks and better results. Moreover, the industry is moving towards more digitalization, so digital twins are going to be an even bigger part of project execution.
For more information on how digital twins and other emerging technologies are revolutionizing EPC project management, register today for the American EPC & Project Management Summit 2024. To be held October 24-25 in Houston, TX, this conference will host industry leaders, innovators, and experts to discuss current issues and share the latest trends and best practices in project execution. Sign up now to reserve your spot, and participate in the evolution of EPC project management.
