A mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) equipment plan is vital for showing all the visible electrical equipment, fixtures and components in a structure. This ranges from mechanical ducting and plumbing mains to meters, panels, outlets, important terminals, data jacks, lights and more.
Constructing a detailed, accurate MEP plan is an important step for any project in Raleigh, NC. Read on if you’re wondering, “What is a MEP plan?”
How are MEP plans made?
Advanced 3D-modeling drawings are utilized to create a moderately detailed map of the location. These drawings include the dimensions of HVAC units, electrical infrastructure, pipes and mechanical equipment. Every element is modeled according to its size and location. Depending on the project, additional, heavily detailed modeling can be done, which includes even more elements like joints, valves and hangers.
Why are MEP plans important?
The fact is that having each of these three technical elements working together—mechanical, electrical and plumbing—means you’ll have a space that’s functioning well. Each of these three elements only works in conjunction with the others, so you don’t want conflicts between them. Having a solid MEP plan going into construction means contractors can:
- Optimize materials, thereby reducing installation costs
- Achieve higher performance for each of the three elements
- Meet local construction codes
Designing any one of these elements in isolation can lead to problems. Due to the complexity of modern layouts for each of these systems, having them in coordination with each other will speed up the design process. On top of that, simple and repetitive tasks are assigned to computers, which complete them automatically. This leaves the engineers with sufficient time to make smarter design decisions, which will help with your project.
What role does a MEP plan play once construction is complete?
A well-laid-out MEP plan can also pay off down the line when it comes time to perform maintenance or repairs or make upgrades to any of your systems. These models are used as a reference for technicians performing maintenance, and having a solid, accurate plan can make all the difference.
Let’s take an HVAC system as an example to demonstrate how a given MEP plan works. With an accurate MEP plan, a technician can tell the size of the box, as well as the air supply it will provide, and the air temperature rise and corresponding water temperature drop. The bottom line is that a solid MEP plan helps technicians understand the characteristics of the equipment that’s been installed and whether they’re operating properly.
For more than 25 years, the experts at Box Electric Company have served the needs of a diverse set of commercial clients in Raleigh, NC. We are dedicated to providing a wide range of commercial and industrial electrical services—from new construction on electrical systems to upgrades and renovations to lighting designs, repairs, maintenance and much more. If your business requires electrical services or upgrades, you can count on our decades of experience to work for you. Reach out to us today or visit our website for more information.