New approach speeds up steel erection

Canam Canada has just launched an initiative called “BuildMaster” which it has found can reduce the time spent on erecting steel on site by 15% to 25%.

The BuildMaster approach took two years to develop and has already been tested on more than 30 pilot projects across Canada.

Using BuildMaster, Canam pre-sorts and tags steel products in its factory according to the project needs. The steel is delivered to the site already sorted into the tagged bundles, and in ordered sequence. This means the work site can be much better organized according to the construction schedule. Canam will also pre-assemble certain elements, which reduces the need for some on-site equipment.

The BuildMaster system has various applications, including the “Engineering” application, which allows engineers to calculate an economical joist depth. The application was available on-line previously, but now also comes in an iPhone application. Engineers can also approve joist drawings faster with a new online “eApproval” software.

A “Project” application allows owners to track the progress of their projects and the “Jobsite” application” allows contractors and installers to follow up in real time on materials received and shipments to come.

Canam says the BuildMaster approach has environmental benefits because it reduces the amount of on-site equipment.