Scan to BIM Perth WA

Ink line drawing of an engineer using a 3D LiDAR scanner to capture an industrial facility in Perth WA, with point cloud lines converting the site into a BIM model.

Scan to BIM Perth WA | LiDAR Scanning & BIM Modelling

Blue 3D LiDAR scanner icon on a tripod with scanning waves

Embracing the idea of Scan to BIM Perth WA would suggest accurate site information is critical for successful engineering, construction, maintenance and upgrade projects. In Perth and across Western Australia, many mining, industrial, commercial and infrastructure assets have changed over time, but the drawings have not always kept up.

Equipment gets replaced. Pipework is modified. Structural steel is strengthened or repaired. Access platforms are changed. Services are rerouted. Buildings are refurbished. Over time, the original drawings may no longer reflect what is actually installed on site.

This is where Scan to BIM Perth becomes valuable.

Scan to BIM is the process of capturing an existing site using 3D laser scanning or LiDAR technology, then converting that point cloud data into an accurate Building Information Model. The result is a usable digital model that helps engineers, project managers, builders, asset owners and maintenance teams make better decisions based on real site conditions.

Hamilton By Design provides engineering-led Scan to BIM services across Perth and Western Australia, supporting mining, industrial, commercial, infrastructure and brownfield upgrade projects.

For projects that require accurate reality capture before design or fabrication begins, Hamilton By Design also provides 3D laser scanning in Perth to capture reliable point cloud data for downstream BIM, CAD and engineering workflows.

The Biggest Problem: Inaccurate or Missing As-Built Information

The biggest problem Scan to BIM solves is the lack of reliable as-built information.

Many Perth and WA sites rely on old drawings, incomplete records or assumptions made from previous projects. In some cases, drawings may exist but do not include later site modifications. In other cases, asset owners may only have PDFs, hand-marked drawings or partial CAD files.

This creates major project risk.

If engineers are designing from inaccurate information, new equipment may not fit. Steelwork may clash with existing structure. Pipe routes may conflict with services. Fabricated parts may arrive on site and require modification. Shutdown work may take longer than planned because the real site does not match the design assumptions.

These issues can lead to:

Design clashes
Fabrication errors
Installation delays
Extra site visits
Shutdown overruns
Safety risks
Increased project costs
Poor coordination between trades
Rework during construction
Poor asset records for future maintenance

For brownfield industrial and mining projects, these risks are especially important because work is often carried out around live plant, restricted access zones, shutdown windows and complex existing infrastructure.

Scan to BIM helps reduce this uncertainty by capturing the actual site and turning it into practical digital information.

What Is Scan to BIM?

Scan to BIM combines two key processes: reality capture and Building Information Modelling.

First, the existing site is captured using 3D laser scanning or LiDAR. The scanner records millions of measurement points across the site. These points form a point cloud, which is a highly accurate 3D representation of the existing conditions.

The point cloud can then be used to create a BIM model. Depending on the project, this model may include building elements, structural steel, pipework, mechanical equipment, platforms, conveyors, access systems, services, walls, slabs, columns and other site features.

The final model may be delivered in formats such as Revit, Navisworks, IFC, DWG or other agreed digital formats.

The key value is that the model is based on measured site data, not guesswork.

Who Uses Scan to BIM in Perth?

Scan to BIM is used by a wide range of organisations and project teams across Perth and Western Australia.

Typical users include:

Mining companies
Industrial plant owners
Commercial property owners
Infrastructure operators
Engineering consultants
Mechanical engineers
Structural engineers
Architects
Builders
Fabricators
Shutdown planners
Asset managers
Maintenance teams
Project managers
Facility managers

For asset owners, Scan to BIM provides better records of what is installed.

For engineers, it provides a more reliable base for design.

For builders and fabricators, it helps reduce clashes and installation problems.

For maintenance teams, it supports planning, access review and future asset management.

Where Is Scan to BIM Used in Perth and WA?

Scan to BIM can be used anywhere existing conditions need to be captured accurately.

In Perth, this may include commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, industrial workshops, warehouses, manufacturing sites, processing plants, water infrastructure, ports and transport facilities.

Across Western Australia, Scan to BIM is also valuable for mining and heavy industrial locations, including processing plants, materials handling facilities, port infrastructure, power generation assets, pump stations, treatment plants and regional industrial sites.

Common WA locations and project areas include:

Perth CBD
Kwinana
Henderson
Welshpool
Canning Vale
Fremantle
Rockingham
Bunbury
Geraldton
Kalgoorlie
Port Hedland
Karratha
Pilbara
Goldfields
Regional Western Australia

Hamilton By Design supports broader engineering and scanning work through its Perth WA engineering and 3D scanning services page, which is a useful internal location hub for Perth-based clients.

How the Scan to BIM Process Works

A typical Scan to BIM workflow includes several stages.

1. Project Scope and Capture Planning

Before scanning begins, the project team needs to understand what the model will be used for.

This is important because not every Scan to BIM project needs the same level of detail. A model for architectural refurbishment may require different information compared with a model for conveyor upgrades, pipework modifications, structural access design or plant layout changes.

Key questions include:

What area needs to be captured?
What level of detail is required?
Is the model for design, construction, asset records or maintenance?
Are mechanical and structural elements required?
Are services and pipework required?
What deliverable format is needed?
Is the work being used for clash detection?
Is the site live, restricted or difficult to access?

Clear scope at the start helps ensure the final model is useful.

2. 3D Laser Scanning or LiDAR Site Capture

The site is captured using professional 3D scanning equipment. The scanner collects accurate spatial data from multiple positions around the site.

For complex industrial facilities, multiple scan positions may be required to capture equipment, steelwork, pipework, access platforms, conveyors and building elements from different angles.

The result is a point cloud that represents the real site geometry.

3. Point Cloud Registration

After site capture, the individual scans are registered together into a single coordinated point cloud.

This stage aligns the scans so the full site can be reviewed as one digital environment.

Typical point cloud formats may include:

The registered point cloud becomes the foundation for the BIM model.

4. BIM Model Development

The point cloud is then used to create a BIM model. Depending on the project, this may include modelling architectural, structural, mechanical or services elements.

For industrial and mining projects, modelled items may include:

Structural steel
Platforms
Stairs
Handrails
Pipework
Tanks
Pumps
Conveyors
Chutes
Hoppers
Mechanical equipment
Access areas
Building structure
Services corridors

The goal is not just to make the model look good. The goal is to create a model that supports real project decisions.

Where CAD deliverables are required rather than a full BIM workflow, Hamilton By Design can also convert point cloud data into engineering models and drawings through its Scan to CAD Perth service.

5. Quality Review Against the Point Cloud

Once the BIM model is created, it should be checked against the point cloud. This helps confirm that the model reflects the captured site conditions and that the required scope has been covered.

Quality review is important because Scan to BIM is only useful if the model is accurate enough for the intended purpose.

A model used for general planning may not require the same detail as a model used for fabrication coordination, clash detection or construction sequencing. The required accuracy and level of detail should match the project outcome.

6. Delivery of BIM and CAD Outputs

Final deliverables depend on the project requirements.

Common deliverables include:

Revit model
Navisworks model
IFC model
DWG drawings
2D plans
Sections and elevations
PDF documentation
Registered point cloud
E57 files
RCP / RCS files
Clash detection model
As-built documentation

Tools That Assist With Scan to BIM

Scan to BIM relies on a combination of capture equipment, point cloud software, BIM software and engineering review.

Useful tools include:

Tool	Purpose
3D laser scanner / LiDAR	Captures accurate site geometry
FARO Focus / terrestrial scanner	Engineering-grade site capture
FARO SCENE	Point cloud registration and processing
Autodesk ReCap	Point cloud preparation for Autodesk workflows
Revit	BIM model development
Navisworks	Coordination and clash review
AutoCAD	2D drawings and CAD outputs
IFC	Model exchange between software platforms
E57 / RCP / RCS / LAS	Point cloud delivery formats
SolidWorks / Inventor	Mechanical modelling where required

The right tools depend on the final use of the data. A commercial building project may require a Revit-focused workflow, while an industrial plant upgrade may need a combination of point cloud, CAD, BIM and mechanical modelling outputs.

Why Engineering-Led Scan to BIM Matters

Not all Scan to BIM providers approach the work the same way.

Some providers focus mainly on scanning and visual modelling. That may be enough for some building documentation projects, but industrial and mining sites often need a deeper understanding of how the asset works.

Engineering-led Scan to BIM is different because the model is developed with practical project outcomes in mind.

For example, in a processing plant, the important question may not simply be “what does the site look like?” The real questions may be:

Will the new equipment fit?
Can the conveyor be modified safely?
Is there enough access for installation?
Will new pipework clash with existing steel?
Can the platform support maintenance access?
What needs to be removed before shutdown?
Can fabrication drawings be developed from the scan data?
What existing structure must remain untouched?

Hamilton By Design’s Scan to BIM approach is suited to mechanical, structural, mining and industrial environments where the digital model needs to support real engineering decisions.

For clients working nationally, the broader Scan to BIM Mining and Industrial Facilities page provides additional context around mining, processing plant, materials handling and heavy industrial applications.

Benefits of Scan to BIM Perth

Scan to BIM provides several important benefits for Perth and WA projects.

Better Design Accuracy

Design teams can work from real site data instead of old drawings or assumptions. This reduces the risk of designing around information that no longer reflects the site.

Reduced Site Rework

Accurate existing-condition data helps reduce fabrication and installation problems. This is particularly valuable where fabricated components need to fit into existing plant, structure or services.

Improved Clash Detection

Models can be reviewed before construction to identify conflicts between new and existing elements.

This helps project teams detect problems before labour, materials and equipment are committed to site work.

Faster Project Planning

Teams can review the site digitally without always needing to return to site.

This is useful for remote WA projects where travel, access and site inductions can add time and cost.

Improved Shutdown Confidence

For mining and industrial projects, accurate scan data helps plan work before shutdown begins.

Shutdowns are often expensive and time-sensitive. Scan to BIM helps reduce uncertainty before work starts.

Better Asset Records

Owners receive a more reliable digital record of existing assets.

This can support future maintenance, inspections, upgrades and long-term asset management.

Improved Collaboration

BIM models provide a shared reference point for engineers, builders, contractors, fabricators and asset managers.

When everyone is working from the same accurate information, coordination improves.

Scan to BIM for Brownfield Projects

Brownfield projects are one of the strongest use cases for Scan to BIM.

Unlike greenfield projects, brownfield sites already contain existing plant, structure, services, access restrictions and operational constraints. The site may have been modified many times over decades.

This makes accurate information critical.

Scan to BIM helps brownfield projects by capturing the real conditions before design or fabrication begins. This reduces the chance of clashes, improves planning and gives project teams a more reliable foundation for decision-making.

For Perth and WA mining, resources, port and industrial projects, this can be the difference between a smooth installation and a costly shutdown delay.

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FAQs

What is Scan to BIM?

Scan to BIM is the process of capturing an existing site using 3D laser scanning or LiDAR, then converting the point cloud data into a Building Information Model. The model can be used for design, construction planning, asset management, clash detection and future maintenance.

Why is Scan to BIM useful for Perth and WA projects?

Scan to BIM is useful because many Perth and WA assets have incomplete or outdated drawings. By capturing the real site conditions, project teams can reduce assumptions, avoid clashes and plan upgrades with greater confidence.

What industries use Scan to BIM in Perth?

Scan to BIM is used across mining, mineral processing, ports, manufacturing, commercial buildings, infrastructure, water treatment, power generation and industrial facilities.

What deliverables can be provided from a Scan to BIM project?

Typical deliverables may include Revit models, Navisworks models, IFC files, DWG drawings, 2D plans, sections, elevations, registered point clouds, E57 files, RCP files, RCS files and PDF documentation.

Is Scan to BIM only for buildings?

No. Scan to BIM can be used for buildings, but it is also valuable for industrial plants, mining infrastructure, processing facilities, pipework, structural steel, conveyors, platforms, equipment and brownfield engineering projects.

Can Scan to BIM help reduce shutdown risk?

Yes. Scan to BIM can help project teams understand existing site conditions before shutdown work begins. This can reduce clashes, improve sequencing and reduce the risk of unexpected site issues during installation.

What is the difference between Scan to BIM and Scan to CAD?

Scan to BIM usually creates an information-rich model, often used in Revit, Navisworks or IFC workflows. Scan to CAD usually focuses on producing CAD models and drawings for engineering, drafting, fabrication or layout work. The right choice depends on the project outcome.

Do I need a full BIM model for every project?

No. Some projects only need a point cloud, 2D drawings or a Scan to CAD model. Other projects need a full BIM model for coordination, asset management or construction planning. The deliverable should match the project need.

Scan to BIM Perth gives project teams a more reliable way to understand existing buildings, plants and infrastructure before design, fabrication or construction begins.

For Perth and Western Australia, where mining, industrial, commercial and infrastructure assets often involve complex existing conditions, accurate digital information can reduce risk, improve coordination and support better long-term asset management.

By combining 3D laser scanning, point cloud processing, BIM modelling and engineering experience, Hamilton By Design helps turn real site conditions into practical digital deliverables that support better project outcomes.

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3D Reality Capture Services

30 June 202620 July 2026

Shiploader 3D Scanning Perth

Engineering-Grade LiDAR Scanning for Ports, Bulk Handling and Brownfield Shiploader Upgrades

Hamilton By Design provides shiploader 3D scanning in Perth for port operators, bulk handling facilities, engineers, fabricators and maintenance teams working with ageing shiploaders, conveyors, chutes, booms, wharf structures and access platforms.

Shiploaders are large, complex and difficult assets to modify safely. They operate in harsh marine environments, often handling abrasive bulk materials such as minerals, grain, fertiliser, alumina, coal, ore or other export products. Over time, these machines are repaired, strengthened, modified and upgraded. The problem is that the drawings do not always keep up with the real asset.

That creates risk.

When a port operator needs to replace a chute, modify a conveyor, inspect a boom, upgrade access platforms, install guarding, check clearances or plan a shutdown, the team needs accurate existing-condition data. If the project starts with old drawings or incomplete site measurements, the risk of fabrication errors, installation clashes and shutdown delays increases quickly.

Hamilton By Design uses engineering-grade LiDAR scanning to capture accurate site geometry before design, fabrication or shutdown work begins. The scan data can then be used for point cloud review, Scan-to-CAD modelling, clash checking, general arrangement drawings, fabrication support and as-built documentation.

For broader Western Australian site capture and engineering support, see our 3D Scanning Perth services.

Why Shiploader 3D Scanning Matters

A shiploader is not a simple conveyor. It is a complete mechanical, structural and operational system. A typical shiploader may include boom structures, conveyor galleries, transfer chutes, hoppers, skirts, drives, pulleys, take-up systems, dust control equipment, hydraulic systems, electrical routes, access platforms, walkways, stairs, handrails, guarding, rails, wharf interfaces and surrounding port infrastructure.

Many of these areas are difficult to measure manually. Some areas are elevated. Some are close to operating plant. Some are affected by corrosion, impact damage, product build-up, wear or previous modifications. Manual measurement may be suitable for small items, but it is often not enough when the design team needs to understand how the whole asset fits together.

3D scanning captures millions of measured points across the shiploader and surrounding infrastructure. The result is a digital point cloud that can be measured, reviewed and converted into usable engineering deliverables.

This is especially valuable for brownfield port environments where the installed condition often differs from the original drawings.

The Biggest Problem: Inaccurate As-Built Data

The biggest problem for port operators and engineers is that ageing shiploaders often do not have accurate as-built data.

Original drawings may exist, but they may no longer reflect the current condition of the machine. Over many years, shiploaders are maintained, repaired and modified. Chutes are replaced. Guards are added. Platforms are changed. Steelwork is strengthened. Conveyor components are adjusted. Services are rerouted. Dust control systems are modified. Access systems are upgraded.

Each change may make sense at the time, but unless the drawings are updated properly, the asset slowly drifts away from the documentation.

This creates problems when new work is planned.

An engineer may design a replacement chute based on old drawings, only to find that the surrounding structure has changed. A fabricator may manufacture a component that clashes with existing steelwork. A shutdown team may plan an installation sequence without knowing that access is restricted. A maintenance team may discover during the shutdown that the lifting path is blocked.

For a shiploader, these problems can become expensive quickly. Shutdown windows are limited. Port operations are time-sensitive. Fabrication rework can delay installation. A small measurement error can become a major site issue.

3D scanning helps reduce this risk by capturing the real installed condition before design and fabrication decisions are made.

Who Uses Shiploader 3D Scanning?

Shiploader 3D scanning is useful for several project groups.

Port operators use scan data to understand existing assets, plan maintenance and reduce shutdown risk.

Mechanical engineers use point clouds and CAD models to design chute modifications, conveyor interfaces, guards, brackets, transfer points and replacement components.

Structural engineers use scan data to review steelwork, access platforms, stairs, handrails, supports, boom structures and wharf interfaces.

Fabricators use accurate geometry to reduce site fit-up problems and improve confidence before manufacturing.

Maintenance planners use scan data to plan access, lifting, removal sequences and installation work before the asset is taken offline.

EPCM contractors use point cloud information for design coordination, clash checking and constructability review.

Bulk handling operators use scan data to support conveyors, transfer towers, shiploaders, wharf structures and associated plant.

What Can Be Scanned?

Hamilton By Design can scan shiploader and port infrastructure elements including:

Shiploader boom structures
Conveyor galleries
Transfer chutes
Hoppers and skirts
Belt feeders
Drive stations
Pulley areas
Take-up systems
Dust extraction systems
Spray systems
Access platforms
Walkways and stairs
Handrails and guarding
Wharf structures
Rail interfaces
Structural supports
Pipework and services
Cable trays and equipment routes
Maintenance access zones
Adjacent conveyors and transfer points

The aim is not just to create a visual record. The aim is to produce engineering information that can support real project decisions.

Where We Support Shiploader 3D Scanning

Hamilton By Design supports shiploader 3D scanning and port infrastructure projects across Perth and Western Australia, including Perth, Fremantle, Kwinana, Henderson, Cockburn Sound, Rockingham, Bunbury, Geraldton, Port Hedland, Karratha and regional WA bulk handling facilities.

The page focus is Shiploader 3D Scanning Perth, but the same workflow can support port and bulk handling infrastructure across Western Australia.

Perth is a practical engineering base for this work because many WA port, mining, processing and bulk handling projects are planned, managed and engineered from Perth, even when the assets themselves are located across regional WA.

How the 3D Scanning Process Works

1. Project Review

The first step is understanding why the scan is required.

A scan for chute replacement is different from a scan for access platform upgrades. A scan for shutdown planning is different from a scan for fabrication verification. Before scanning begins, Hamilton By Design reviews the project objective, required deliverables, areas of interest and level of detail required.

This helps make sure the scan captures the information that the engineering, maintenance or fabrication team actually needs.

2. Site Walkdown and Scan Planning

The shiploader and surrounding work areas are reviewed to identify key scan locations. The aim is to capture the asset with enough coverage and overlap to produce a reliable point cloud.

Important areas may include transfer points, boom sections, conveyor routes, access platforms, drive areas, structural supports, wharf interfaces and installation paths.

Safety and access requirements are also considered, especially around live plant, elevated work areas, marine environments and shutdown conditions.

3. LiDAR Site Capture

Hamilton By Design uses terrestrial LiDAR scanning to capture the asset. The scanner records millions of measured points, creating a detailed point cloud of the shiploader and surrounding infrastructure.

This method is faster and more complete than relying on manual measurements for large and complex brownfield assets.

4. Point Cloud Registration

After scanning, the scan data is registered into a coordinated point cloud. This creates a single usable dataset that can be opened, reviewed, measured and used for downstream modelling.

Typical point cloud deliverables may include E57, RCP, RCS or LAS files.

These files can support engineering review, CAD modelling, coordination and documentation.

5. Engineering Review

Once the point cloud is prepared, engineers and designers can review the captured asset. They can check clearances, confirm interfaces, measure existing geometry and identify areas that may affect design, fabrication or installation.

This is where engineering-led scanning becomes valuable. Hamilton By Design understands how scan data is used for design, fabrication, maintenance and brownfield modification work.

6. Scan-to-CAD Modelling

Where required, the point cloud can be converted into CAD models or drawings. This may include mechanical components, structural steel, platforms, chutes, guards, conveyor interfaces or general arrangement layouts.

For more detailed point cloud conversion support, see our Scan to CAD Perth services.

7. Drawings and Deliverables

Depending on the project, Hamilton By Design can provide registered point clouds, 2D plans, sections, elevations, general arrangement drawings, 3D CAD models, STEP files, SAT files, Parasolid files, DWG drawings, fabrication drawings, as-built documentation and clash review models.

The deliverables are selected based on the project need. Some clients only require point cloud data. Others require a full scan-to-CAD workflow with engineering drawings and fabrication support.

Tools That Assist Shiploader 3D Scanning

Hamilton By Design uses practical digital engineering tools suitable for industrial, port and bulk handling environments.

These may include FARO Focus terrestrial LiDAR scanning, FARO SCENE point cloud registration, Autodesk ReCap for RCP and RCS workflows, AutoCAD for plans and sections, SolidWorks for mechanical modelling, Autodesk Inventor for mechanical assemblies and Navisworks for coordination and clash checking.

Deliverable formats may include E57, RCP, RCS, LAS, DWG, STEP, SAT and Parasolid.

The purpose of these tools is to move the project from site capture to usable engineering information.

Services Hamilton By Design Can Provide

Hamilton By Design can support shiploader and port infrastructure projects with engineering-grade 3D laser scanning, point cloud registration, Scan-to-CAD modelling, mechanical engineering support, structural drafting, as-built documentation, fabrication drawings and shutdown planning support.

Our work can assist with chute modifications, conveyor interfaces, guarding, brackets, access platforms, walkways, stairs, handrails, support frames, replacement components and surrounding infrastructure.

For broader design and engineering capability in Western Australia, see our Perth engineering services page.

Common Shiploader Project Problems We Help Solve

Hamilton By Design can assist when existing drawings are missing, outdated or unreliable.

We can also assist when a chute needs to be replaced, a conveyor interface needs to be checked, a boom structure needs to be documented, access platforms need modification, new guarding is being installed, fabricated parts need accurate site geometry or shutdown work needs better planning.

Shiploader projects often fail because the project team discovers the real site condition too late. A point cloud gives engineers, fabricators and maintenance teams a better understanding before work moves too far into design or fabrication.

Example Use Case: Chute and Conveyor Upgrade

A common shiploader problem is a transfer chute or conveyor interface that needs modification.

The original drawing may show the design intent, but the installed condition may have changed. There may be additional steelwork, modified guards, worn liners, dust control equipment, services or access restrictions.

By scanning the area first, Hamilton By Design can capture the surrounding geometry and provide accurate information for the design team.

This helps engineers confirm available space, model replacement components, check access, reduce clashes and improve fabrication accuracy.

The result is a better chance that the new work will fit during the planned shutdown.

Engineering-grade 3D laser scanning and mining infrastructure project in Central Queensland, showing a conveyor transfer station, CHPP facility, coal train, industrial laser scanner, point cloud modelling and reverse engineering workflows supporting shutdown engineering and mining operations.

Example Use Case: Access Platform Modification

Shiploaders often require access improvements for inspection, maintenance and safety. This may involve stairs, platforms, handrails, ladders, guards or local structural modifications.

A scan can capture the existing structure and surrounding obstructions so that new access systems can be designed around real site conditions.

This is particularly useful when the asset has been modified over many years and the original access drawings are no longer reliable.

Example Use Case: Shutdown Planning

Shutdown time is expensive. Every hour matters.

By scanning the shiploader before the shutdown, project teams can inspect the asset digitally, measure key areas, plan removal paths, check lifting constraints, model replacement components and identify potential clashes before work begins.

This does not remove every risk, but it gives the project team better information before the asset is taken offline.

Why Engineering-Led Scanning Is Different

Not all 3D scanning is the same.

For a shiploader project, the value is not just in capturing a point cloud. The value is in understanding what the point cloud is needed for.

A survey-only approach may capture the site, but an engineering-led approach considers how the information will be used for design, fabrication, installation and maintenance.

Hamilton By Design combines LiDAR scanning with mechanical engineering, drafting and fabrication-aware modelling. That means the scan is planned around the downstream engineering outcome, not just the visual capture.

This is important for port assets because the cost of getting it wrong can be high. A small clash, incorrect bracket location, missed access constraint or outdated drawing can create real shutdown delays.

For broader mechanical design support, see our Mechanical Engineering Perth page.

FAQs

What is shiploader 3D scanning?

Shiploader 3D scanning is the process of using LiDAR scanning equipment to capture accurate three-dimensional data of a shiploader and its surrounding infrastructure. The scan creates a point cloud that can be measured, reviewed and converted into CAD models or drawings.

Why scan a shiploader before an upgrade?

A shiploader should be scanned before an upgrade because existing drawings are often outdated or incomplete. Scanning captures the real installed condition, helping engineers reduce assumptions before design, fabrication and shutdown work begins.

What parts of a shiploader can be scanned?

Hamilton By Design can scan boom structures, conveyors, transfer chutes, hoppers, guards, access platforms, stairs, handrails, wharf interfaces, drives, pulleys, services, dust control systems and surrounding port infrastructure.

Can scan data be converted into CAD drawings?

Yes. Point cloud data can be converted into 2D drawings, 3D CAD models, general arrangement drawings, sections, elevations and fabrication drawings, depending on the project requirements.

What file formats can be supplied?

Typical deliverables may include E57, RCP, RCS, LAS, DWG, STEP, SAT and Parasolid formats. The final format depends on the client’s software and required workflow.

Is shiploader scanning useful for shutdown planning?

Yes. Scanning before a shutdown helps teams check clearances, plan installation paths, identify clashes, review access and reduce the risk of discovering problems after the asset is offline.

Can 3D scanning help with chute replacement?

Yes. Chute replacement is one of the best uses for 3D scanning. The scan captures the surrounding structure, conveyor interfaces, access restrictions and existing geometry so the replacement chute can be designed with better information.

Does Hamilton By Design only work in Perth?

No. Hamilton By Design supports projects across Perth and Western Australia, including Fremantle, Kwinana, Henderson, Bunbury, Geraldton, Port Hedland, Karratha and regional bulk handling sites.

Shiploader 3D Scanning Perth

If you are planning a shiploader upgrade, chute replacement, conveyor modification, access platform change, shutdown project or port infrastructure review, accurate as-built information is the best place to start.

Hamilton By Design provides shiploader 3D scanning Perth services for port operators, engineers, fabricators and maintenance teams working across Perth and Western Australia.

By combining engineering-grade LiDAR scanning, point cloud registration, Scan-to-CAD modelling, mechanical engineering and drafting support, Hamilton By Design helps project teams reduce assumptions, improve fabrication accuracy and plan brownfield work with greater confidence.

Contact Hamilton By Design to discuss your shiploader, conveyor, chute, wharf or port infrastructure scanning requirements.

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Scan to BIM Services Australia | LiDAR, Point Clouds & CAD Modelling

3D Reality Capture Services

28 June 20266 July 2026

3D Scanning and Mechanical Engineering Services Kwinana WA

Pencil drawing of 3D scanning and mechanical engineering services in Kwinana WA, showing a FARO laser scanner, point cloud, industrial plant, CAD overlay and engineer with tablet.

Engineer-Led 3D Scanning and Mechanical Design Support for Kwinana Industry

Hamilton By Design provides 3D scanning and mechanical engineering services in Kwinana WA for industrial plants, processing facilities, workshops, fabrication companies, maintenance teams and project engineers.

Kwinana is one of Western Australia’s most important industrial areas. It supports heavy industry, bulk handling, energy, minerals processing, chemical processing, fabrication, marine services, port infrastructure and industrial maintenance. In these environments, accurate site information is essential. When existing drawings are missing, outdated or unreliable, engineering decisions become harder, slower and more expensive.

That is where 3D laser scanning, LiDAR capture and mechanical engineering design support can help.

Hamilton By Design combines site-based 3D scanning, point cloud processing, SolidWorks modelling, mechanical drafting and reverse engineering to help Kwinana businesses understand existing plant conditions before they design, modify, fabricate or install new equipment.

Whether you need accurate site measurements, as-built documentation, Scan to CAD, reverse engineering of obsolete parts, equipment layout verification or mechanical design support, we can help turn real-world site conditions into useful engineering information.

Why 3D Scanning Matters for Kwinana Industrial Sites

Industrial sites in Kwinana often contain complex plant, pipework, tanks, conveyors, platforms, structural steel, access systems, mechanical equipment and services that have changed over many years.

The problem is simple: the drawings do not always match the site.

A plant may have been modified during shutdowns. Pipework may have been rerouted. Platforms may have been added. Equipment may have been replaced. Fabricators may have worked from site measurements instead of updated drawings. Over time, the real site and the drawing register can become very different.

For brownfield projects, this creates risk.

A new chute may clash with existing steel. A replacement pump base may not line up with the real hold-down bolt locations. A platform may interfere with pipework. A new mechanical assembly may fit in CAD but fail during installation because the design was based on old information.

3D scanning reduces this risk by capturing the existing site in accurate three-dimensional detail. Instead of relying only on manual tape measurements, photos and old drawings, project teams can work from a measured point cloud of the real plant.

Common Problems We Help Solve

Hamilton By Design supports Kwinana industrial businesses with practical engineering information for real-world problems.

Common issues include:

Existing drawings are missing, outdated or incomplete
New equipment may clash with existing plant
Fabrication drawings are required before a shutdown
OEM drawings are unavailable
Replacement parts are expensive or have long lead times
Manual site measurements are difficult, unsafe or incomplete
Access platforms, stairs and handrails need to fit around existing equipment
Pipework, conveyors, tanks or structures need to be modelled from site data
Plant upgrades need accurate as-built information
Project teams need better information before approving fabrication

When the plant is complex, old or heavily modified, 3D scanning provides a better starting point.

3D Laser Scanning Services in Kwinana WA

Our 3D scanning service is designed for industrial environments where accurate measurement matters.

We can scan:

Processing plants
Pump stations
Conveyor systems
Chutes and hoppers
Structural steel
Pipe racks and pipework
Tanks and vessels
Access platforms
Stairs and handrails
Maintenance areas
Workshops and fabrication spaces
Marine and port-related infrastructure
Brownfield upgrade areas
Existing equipment layouts

The scan data can be used for design, verification, planning, fabrication, modelling and project review.

For industrial work, the value is not just the scan itself. The value comes from turning scan data into engineering information that designers, project managers, fabricators and site teams can actually use.

Scan to CAD for Kwinana Industrial Projects

Scan to CAD is the process of converting 3D scan data into CAD models, drawings or design references.

For Kwinana industrial sites, Scan to CAD can be useful when a project team needs a reliable model of existing conditions before designing new work.

Hamilton By Design can convert point cloud data into:

SolidWorks models
AutoCAD drawings
STEP files
SAT files
DWG files
DXF files
General arrangement drawings
Section views
Elevations
Fabrication references
Mechanical layout models
As-built CAD geometry

This is especially useful when working around existing plant, services and structures.

A good Scan to CAD workflow can help answer important questions before fabrication starts:

Will the new equipment fit?

Is there enough clearance?

Are the bolt locations correct?

Will the pipework clash?

Can the platform be installed safely?

Does the model match the real site?

These questions are much cheaper to answer in CAD than during installation.

Mechanical Engineering Services Kwinana WA

Hamilton By Design also provides mechanical engineering and drafting support for Kwinana businesses.

Our mechanical engineering services can include:

Mechanical design
Equipment layouts
Reverse engineering
Replacement component modelling
Pump and machinery component drawings
Fabrication drawings
General arrangement drawings
Access platform layouts
Chute and hopper design support
Conveyor-related drafting
Pipework drafting support
Brownfield modification design
Site measurement and verification
Engineering-grade CAD modelling

We work with industrial clients who need practical design support that connects the site, the CAD model and the workshop.

This is important because many industrial projects fail at the connection point between design and site reality. A drawing may look correct, but the real plant may tell a different story. By combining 3D scanning with mechanical engineering, the design process starts with better information.

Reverse Engineering for Kwinana Equipment and Parts

Many Kwinana industrial businesses operate equipment where original drawings are unavailable, the OEM no longer supports the part, or replacement lead times are too long.

Reverse engineering can help by measuring the existing component and creating a CAD model or drawing that can support replacement, repair, modification or local manufacture.

Hamilton By Design can assist with reverse engineering of:

Pump components
Shafts
Brackets
Guards
Covers
Frames
Mounts
Housings
Fabricated parts
Machined parts
Wear components
Custom plant items

Depending on the part and project requirement, reverse engineering may involve 3D scanning, manual measurement, CAD modelling, material review, tolerance consideration and production of manufacturing drawings.

This can be useful when an urgent replacement is required, when a part needs to be improved, or when site teams need to reduce reliance on unavailable OEM drawings.

Brownfield Engineering Support

Kwinana contains many brownfield industrial sites where new work must fit around existing infrastructure.

Brownfield work is difficult because there is rarely a clean, empty design space. The design must fit around what is already there.

This may include:

Existing structural steel
Pipework
Electrical services
Access ways
Platforms
Guarding
Tanks
Conveyors
Process equipment
Maintenance access zones
Crane access
Shutdown constraints

3D scanning helps create a digital record of these existing conditions. Mechanical engineering then uses that information to design practical solutions.

This can reduce the risk of rework, installation delays and fabrication changes.

Why Kwinana Businesses Use 3D Scanning Before Fabrication

Fabrication errors can be costly. If steel is fabricated from incorrect dimensions, the problem may not appear until installation. By then, the project may already be in shutdown, cranes may be booked, trades may be waiting and production may be affected.

3D scanning helps avoid this by confirming site conditions before fabrication.

For example, a scan can help check:

Existing steel locations
Floor levels
Equipment footprints
Pipework positions
Access clearances
Tank and vessel locations
Conveyor geometry
Bolt patterns
Existing maintenance access
Interface points between old and new equipment

This gives engineers and fabricators more confidence before cutting steel, ordering material or issuing drawings for manufacture.

Deliverables Available

Depending on the project, Hamilton By Design can provide:

Point cloud files
E57 files
RCP / RCS files
3D CAD models
SolidWorks models
STEP / SAT files
DWG / DXF drawings
General arrangement drawings
Sections and elevations
Fabrication drawings
Reverse engineering drawings
Site verification reports
Mechanical design layouts

The right deliverable depends on the project outcome. Some clients need point cloud data. Others need a full CAD model. Some only need key interface geometry for fabrication. We can help define the right level of detail before the work begins.

Industries We Support Around Kwinana

Hamilton By Design can support industrial clients across Kwinana and surrounding areas including Rockingham, Henderson, Naval Base, Hope Valley, Cockburn, Welshpool, Canning Vale, Forrestdale and the broader Perth industrial region.

Relevant industries include:

Heavy industry
Minerals processing
Chemical processing
Energy and utilities
Bulk materials handling
Port infrastructure
Marine and defence support
Fabrication workshops
Mechanical contractors
Maintenance teams
Industrial construction
Processing plants
Water and wastewater infrastructure

Why Choose Hamilton By Design

Hamilton By Design is not just a scanning business. We understand mechanical engineering, drafting, fabrication, site measurement and industrial design.

This matters because a point cloud on its own does not solve every problem. The real value comes from knowing what to extract from the scan, what needs to be modelled, what needs to be drawn, and what information the workshop or project engineer needs next.

Our approach is practical:

Capture the existing site conditions
Process the scan data
Review the engineering problem
Convert the information into useful CAD or drawings
Support design, fabrication or installation decisions

This helps clients move from uncertainty to usable engineering information.

3D Scanning and Mechanical Engineering for Kwinana WA

If your Kwinana project depends on accurate site information, Hamilton By Design can help.

We support industrial clients with 3D scanning, LiDAR capture, Scan to CAD, mechanical engineering, reverse engineering and drafting services across Kwinana and the wider Perth industrial region.

Whether you are planning a shutdown, replacing obsolete parts, modifying existing plant, designing new equipment or checking site conditions before fabrication, accurate 3D data can reduce risk and improve project confidence.

Need 3D Scanning or Mechanical Engineering Support in Kwinana?

Talk to Hamilton By Design about your Kwinana industrial project.

We can assist with:

3D laser scanning
Scan to CAD
Mechanical engineering
Reverse engineering
SolidWorks modelling
Fabrication drawings
Brownfield plant upgrades
Site verification
Industrial drafting

For engineering-grade 3D scanning and mechanical design support in Kwinana WA, contact Hamilton By Design.

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Scan to CAD Perth

Point Cloud to CAD Modelling for Industrial, Mining and Engineering Projects

Hamilton By Design provides Scan to CAD Perth services for businesses that need accurate CAD models, drawings and engineering information from existing plant, equipment, structures and sites.

Many Perth and Western Australian businesses work with assets that have been modified over many years. Drawings may be missing, outdated, incomplete or no longer trusted. This creates problems when planning upgrades, replacing equipment, modifying pipework, designing new access platforms or reverse engineering obsolete parts.

Scan to CAD helps solve this problem by converting real-world site conditions into usable CAD data.

Using 3D laser scanning and LiDAR capture, Hamilton By Design can scan existing assets and convert the point cloud into practical engineering deliverables such as 3D CAD models, 2D drawings, as-built layouts, mechanical models, structural layouts, pipework models and fabrication-ready documentation.

For related Perth services, Hamilton By Design also provides 3D laser scanning in Perth, mechanical engineering services in Perth and SolidWorks CAD support in Perth.

Our Scan to CAD Perth services support mining, industrial, manufacturing, marine, infrastructure, water, energy and process plant projects across Perth and Western Australia.

What Is Scan to CAD?

Scan to CAD is the process of capturing an existing object, machine, structure, plant room, building or industrial site using a 3D laser scanner, then converting the scan data into CAD models or drawings.

The scanner captures millions of measurement points from the real-world environment. This creates a point cloud, which can then be processed, registered and used as a reference for CAD modelling.

The CAD output may be simple or detailed depending on the project.

For example, a business may need a basic 3D layout to check whether new equipment will fit. Another project may require detailed CAD models of pipework, steelwork, access platforms, pump components or mechanical assemblies. In some cases, the final deliverable may be a set of fabrication drawings, general arrangement drawings, sections, elevations or 3D model files for engineering design.

Scan to CAD is especially useful for brownfield projects, where new design work needs to fit around existing assets.

Why Perth Businesses Use Scan to CAD Services

Perth businesses use Scan to CAD services when they need reliable information about existing assets.

This is common in mining, ports, processing plants, fabrication workshops, pump stations, utilities, marine facilities and industrial sites. Many of these sites have been changed over many years. Equipment has been replaced, pipework has been rerouted, structures have been modified and old drawings may not reflect the current condition.

When drawings cannot be trusted, engineering work becomes risky.

A new piece of equipment may clash with existing steelwork. A replacement pipe spool may not fit. A platform may be designed around incorrect dimensions. A shutdown job may be delayed because the site information was wrong. These problems can cost far more than the original drafting or scanning work.

Scan to CAD helps reduce this risk by giving engineers, project managers, fabricators and maintenance teams a clearer understanding of the existing site before design, fabrication or installation begins.

For larger Perth and WA projects, this service can also connect with Hamilton By Design’s broader Perth WA engineering and 3D scanning services.

Common Problems Scan to CAD Helps Solve

One of the biggest problems businesses face is the lack of reliable drawings. In many industrial environments, original drawings are either unavailable or no longer accurate. This is particularly common where plant has been upgraded over many years without the as-built documentation being updated.

Another common problem is that OEM drawings are not available. Equipment suppliers may not provide drawings, or replacement parts may have long lead times and high costs. In these situations, Scan to CAD can assist with reverse engineering by capturing the existing part or assembly and creating CAD models for review, repair, modification or replacement.

Brownfield upgrades are another major reason for using Scan to CAD. Existing structures, conveyors, chutes, tanks, pumps, platforms, walkways and pipework can make new design work difficult. A scan provides a practical way to model the existing environment and check the proposed design before fabrication.

Shutdown work is also a key driver. During a shutdown, there is limited time to complete installation work. If a fabricated part does not fit, the cost can be significant. Scan to CAD helps reduce the chance of site rework, emergency fabrication and installation delays.

Scan to CAD for Mining and Industrial Sites in Perth

Perth is closely connected to Western Australia’s mining, resources, marine, energy and industrial sectors. Many projects are designed, managed or supported from Perth, even when the site itself is located elsewhere in WA.

Hamilton By Design supports Scan to CAD services for mining and industrial applications including:

Conveyors, chutes and transfer points.

Pump stations and pipework.

Processing plants and fixed plant equipment.

Access platforms, stairs, ladders and walkways.

Structural steel layouts.

Mechanical equipment and machine components.

Plant rooms and service areas.

Marine and ship repair projects.

Brownfield upgrade areas.

Reverse engineering of obsolete or unavailable parts.

The purpose is not only to create a point cloud. The purpose is to turn that scan data into useful engineering information.

For projects involving steelwork, platforms, pipework or industrial layouts, Hamilton By Design also provides mechanical, structural and pipework drafting in Perth WA.

From Point Cloud to Practical CAD Deliverables

A point cloud is valuable, but many businesses need more than raw scan data. They need usable CAD information that can support decisions, design work, procurement, fabrication and installation.

Hamilton By Design can convert point cloud data into a range of CAD deliverables, including:

3D CAD models.

2D CAD drawings.

General arrangement drawings.

Sections and elevations.

As-built layouts.

Pipework models.

Structural models.

Mechanical models.

STEP, SAT or Parasolid files.

SolidWorks models.

Inventor models.

AutoCAD drawings.

DWG and DXF files.

Fabrication drawings where required.

The final deliverable depends on the project requirement. A clash detection model may not need the same level of detail as a fabrication drawing. A concept model may not need every bolt and weld. A reverse engineering job may need a much higher level of detail.

This is why it is important to define the scope before scanning and modelling begins.

The Importance of Engineering Understanding

Scan to CAD is not just a software process. It requires engineering judgement.

A scanner records what it can see, but the CAD model needs to be interpreted and built by someone who understands the purpose of the work. This is especially important for mechanical, structural and industrial projects.

For example, pipework may need to be modelled using correct pipe outside diameters and centre lines. Steelwork may need to reflect real member sizes. Platforms and access systems may need to consider Australian Standards such as AS 1657. Mechanical components may need to be modelled with design intent, clearances, tolerances and manufacturing method in mind.

A visually impressive model is not always an engineering-ready model.

Hamilton By Design focuses on practical CAD outputs that can be used by engineers, fabricators, project managers and maintenance teams.

Problems Businesses Can Have With Poor Scan to CAD Services

Not all Scan to CAD services are the same.

A common problem is that businesses receive a large point cloud but do not know how to use it. The file may be too large, the format may not suit their software, or the areas they need may not have been captured properly.

Another problem is unclear scope. If the instruction is only “scan the site and provide CAD”, the result may not match what the business expected. The scope should define what needs to be scanned, what needs to be modelled, the required level of detail, the accuracy expectations, the required file formats and whether drawings are included.

Businesses can also run into trouble when the model is either under-modelled or over-modelled. Under-modelling can miss important details. Over-modelling can waste time and increase cost without adding value.

There can also be line-of-sight issues. Laser scanners cannot see through objects, insulation, guards, cladding or equipment. Hidden areas may require extra scan positions, physical measurement or site verification.

The best results come from planning the scan around the final CAD deliverable.

When Should Scan to CAD Be Used?

Scan to CAD should be considered early in a project, especially when existing information is unreliable.

It is useful before:

Plant upgrades.

Equipment installation.

Shutdown planning.

Pipework replacement.

Structural modification.

Access platform design.

Reverse engineering.

Fabrication.

Clash detection.

Layout planning.

As-built documentation.

The earlier the scan is completed, the more useful it becomes. If the scan is done after design work is already finished, it may only reveal problems late in the project. When scanning is completed early, the design team can work around the real site conditions from the start.

Scan to CAD Perth for Brownfield Engineering

Brownfield engineering is one of the strongest applications for Scan to CAD.

In a brownfield site, the challenge is not simply designing something new. The challenge is making sure the new design fits the existing plant.

This is where Scan to CAD provides value.

By converting existing site conditions into CAD, Hamilton By Design can help identify space restrictions, clashes, tie-in points, access limitations and installation constraints before work reaches site.

This can support better planning, better design decisions and reduced installation risk.

For businesses needing building, facility or infrastructure modelling from scan data, Hamilton By Design also provides Scan to BIM services in Perth WA.

Why Work With Hamilton By Design?

Hamilton By Design combines 3D laser scanning, CAD modelling, mechanical engineering, structural drafting and reverse engineering experience.

This means the Scan to CAD process is approached with the final engineering outcome in mind.

We understand that businesses do not simply need a scan. They need answers.

Will the new equipment fit?

Can the part be reverse engineered?

Can the pipework be modelled accurately?

Can the existing structure be documented?

Can the shutdown risk be reduced?

Can the CAD model be used for design, drafting or fabrication?

Our goal is to provide practical CAD information that helps businesses make better engineering decisions.

Scan to CAD Perth Services

Hamilton By Design provides Scan to CAD Perth services for businesses needing accurate, useful and engineering-focused CAD deliverables from existing assets.

Whether the project involves mining equipment, industrial plant, pipework, structural steel, mechanical components, marine repairs or brownfield upgrades, Scan to CAD can help turn site reality into usable engineering data.

If your business has missing drawings, unreliable site information, obsolete parts, shutdown risk or brownfield design challenges, Scan to CAD may be the right starting point.

Hamilton By Design can assist with 3D laser scanning, point cloud processing, CAD modelling, as-built documentation and engineering drafting for Perth and Western Australian projects.

Need Scan to CAD Support in Perth?

Hamilton By Design provides Scan to CAD services for Perth businesses that need accurate CAD models and drawings from existing plant, equipment and structures.

We can assist with site scanning, point cloud processing, CAD modelling, as-built drawings, reverse engineering and engineering documentation for industrial and mechanical projects.

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Scan to BIM Perth WA

Engineering-Led Scan to BIM Services Across Perth and Western Australia

Hamilton By Design provides professional Scan to BIM services throughout Perth and Western Australia, helping mining, industrial, commercial, infrastructure and construction organisations transform accurate 3D laser scan data into intelligent Building Information Models (BIM).

Using engineering-grade LiDAR scanning technology and advanced BIM workflows, we capture existing facilities, process plants, buildings and infrastructure assets and convert them into accurate digital models suitable for design, planning, construction and asset management.

Whether your project involves a brownfield mining upgrade in the Pilbara, a commercial building in the Perth CBD, a processing plant in Kwinana or infrastructure works across regional Western Australia, our Scan to BIM services deliver reliable information for better engineering and project outcomes.

What is Scan to BIM?

Scan to BIM is the process of converting 3D laser scan data into an intelligent Building Information Model.

The process begins with high-accuracy LiDAR scanning, which captures millions of measurement points across a site. This data forms a point cloud that accurately represents existing conditions.

The point cloud is then used to create a BIM model containing structural, architectural and mechanical information that can be used throughout the project lifecycle.

The result is a highly accurate digital representation of the asset that supports:

Engineering design
Construction planning
Asset management
Facility upgrades
Maintenance planning
Clash detection
Digital twin development

Engineering-Led BIM Modelling

Unlike many scanning providers that focus only on data capture, Hamilton By Design combines engineering experience with reality capture technology.

This means the final BIM model is developed with an understanding of:

Mechanical systems
Structural steel
Conveyors
Chutes
Tanks
Pipework
Platforms and access systems
Process equipment
Material handling infrastructure

Our engineering background allows us to understand how facilities operate and how accurate models can improve future design decisions.

Perth Industries Using Scan to BIM

Mining and Resources

Western Australia remains one of the world’s largest mining regions.

Scan to BIM supports:

Iron ore facilities
Gold processing plants
Lithium operations
Rare earth projects
Bulk material handling systems
Port infrastructure

Accurate BIM models help engineering teams reduce shutdown durations and improve planning for plant upgrades.

Industrial Manufacturing

Many Perth manufacturers operate facilities that have evolved over decades.

Often existing drawings are incomplete or outdated.

Scan to BIM enables:

Accurate facility documentation
Equipment replacement projects
Structural upgrades
Capacity expansion projects
Maintenance planning

Commercial Buildings

Commercial property owners increasingly use BIM models to manage assets.

Applications include:

Building refurbishment
Services upgrades
HVAC replacement
Tenant fit-outs
Facility management

Infrastructure Projects

Scan to BIM can support:

Rail infrastructure
Ports
Water treatment facilities
Pump stations
Utility corridors
Government infrastructure

Accurate BIM models reduce project risk by ensuring designs are based on real-world conditions.

Our Scan to BIM Workflow

1. Site LiDAR Scanning

We perform engineering-grade laser scanning using professional reality capture equipment.

Millions of measurement points are collected across the facility.

2. Point Cloud Registration

Individual scans are aligned and processed into a unified point cloud.

Typical deliverables include:

3. BIM Model Development

The point cloud is converted into BIM geometry using industry-standard software.

Models may include:

Structural steel
Mechanical equipment
Pipework
Buildings
Platforms
Access systems

4. Quality Assurance

Models are checked against scan data to verify accuracy and completeness.

5. Deliverables

Typical outputs include:

Autodesk Revit Models
Navisworks Models
IFC Files
DWG Drawings
PDF Documentation
Point Cloud Files

Benefits of Scan to BIM

Improved Accuracy

Laser scanning captures existing conditions with significantly greater accuracy than traditional site measurement methods.

Reduced Design Risk

Design teams can work from verified information rather than assumptions.

Faster Project Delivery

Accurate digital models reduce site revisits and minimise redesign.

Better Asset Management

Facility owners gain an accurate digital representation of their assets.

Improved Collaboration

BIM models provide a common source of information for engineers, designers, contractors and asset owners.

Scan to BIM for Brownfield Mining Projects

Brownfield projects often present unique challenges.

Existing facilities may contain undocumented modifications, ageing infrastructure and limited historical records.

Scan to BIM allows engineering teams to:

Verify existing conditions
Identify clashes before construction
Reduce shutdown risks
Improve design confidence
Support future digital twin initiatives

For mining operations throughout Perth, the Pilbara, Goldfields and regional Western Australia, accurate BIM models can significantly improve project outcomes.

Why Choose Hamilton By Design?

Hamilton By Design combines:

✔ Engineering Experience

✔ LiDAR Scanning Expertise

✔ BIM Modelling Capability

✔ Mechanical Design Knowledge

✔ Structural Drafting Experience

✔ Australia-Wide Project Delivery

✔ Mining Industry Experience

We understand both the technology and the engineering requirements behind successful Scan to BIM projects.

Scan to BIM Perth WA

If you require Scan to BIM services in Perth or anywhere across Western Australia, Hamilton By Design can provide engineering-grade reality capture and BIM modelling solutions tailored to your project requirements.

From mining facilities and industrial plants to commercial buildings and infrastructure projects, we help organisations capture existing conditions and create accurate digital models that support safer, more efficient project delivery.

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Structural Drafting Perth

Structural Steel Detailing, LiDAR Scanning & Engineering Documentation

Hamilton By Design provides Structural Drafting Perth services for construction, shipbuilding, marine infrastructure, manufacturing, smelting, processing facilities, ports, commercial developments and industrial projects throughout Western Australia.

Our team combines engineering-grade LiDAR scanning, 3D CAD modelling, structural drafting, fabrication detailing and digital project management to create accurate engineering documentation for both Greenfield and Brownfield projects.

Whether you are constructing a new facility, modifying an existing plant, expanding a shipyard or upgrading industrial infrastructure, our workflow is designed to reduce site rework, improve constructability and deliver reliable engineering information.

What Is Structural Drafting?

Structural drafting is the process of converting engineering concepts and calculations into detailed drawings and models used for fabrication, construction and installation.

Structural drafting deliverables may include:

General Arrangement Drawings
Structural Steel Fabrication Drawings
Assembly Drawings
Shop Drawings
Installation Drawings
Weld Details
Bolt Schedules
Material Take-Offs
Bill of Materials (BOM)
As-Built Documentation
3D Structural Models

Structural drafting forms the link between engineering design and construction execution.

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Industries We Support

Hamilton By Design supports a broad range of industries throughout Perth and Western Australia including:

Construction

Commercial buildings
Industrial facilities
Warehouses
Hospitals
Education facilities
Government infrastructure

Shipbuilding & Marine

Shipyards
Wharf upgrades
Dry dock facilities
Marine maintenance facilities
Defence infrastructure
Port developments

Manufacturing

Production facilities
Processing plants
Packaging facilities
Material handling systems

Smelting & Processing

Alumina facilities
Nickel processing plants
Lithium processing facilities
Mineral processing plants
Industrial processing facilities

Ports & Infrastructure

Bulk handling facilities
Conveyor systems
Transfer stations
Storage facilities
Materials handling systems

Energy & Utilities

Water treatment facilities
Wastewater infrastructure
Power generation facilities
Renewable energy projects

Perth & Western Australia Service Areas

We support projects throughout:

Perth
Kwinana
Henderson
Fremantle
Welshpool
Canning Vale
Malaga
Bibra Lake
Osborne Park
Joondalup
Bunbury
Geraldton
Kalgoorlie
Port Hedland
Karratha
Pilbara Region

Greenfield Structural Drafting Workflow

Greenfield projects involve new facilities and new infrastructure.

Step 1 – Project Planning

Review:

Design criteria
Client requirements
Applicable standards
Construction methodology
Equipment requirements

Step 2 – Concept Development

Develop:

Facility layouts
Structural arrangements
Access systems
Equipment interfaces
Maintenance access requirements

Step 3 – Engineering Analysis

Engineering verification may include:

Wind loading
Dead loads
Live loads
Equipment loads
Fatigue assessments
Deflection checks

Step 4 – 3D Structural Modelling

Create digital models for:

Buildings
Platforms
Walkways
Pipe racks
Shipyard structures
Industrial facilities

Step 5 – Structural Drafting

Produce:

General Arrangements
Fabrication Drawings
Assembly Drawings
Installation Drawings
Material Schedules

Step 6 – Construction Support

Provide support during fabrication, installation and commissioning.

Brownfield Structural Drafting Workflow

Brownfield projects involve modifications to existing facilities.

These projects typically require verification of existing conditions before engineering and drafting activities begin.

Step 1 – Existing Information Review

Review:

Existing drawings
Vendor information
Historical records
Asset documentation

Step 2 – LiDAR Scanning & Site Verification

Capture existing conditions using engineering-grade reality capture technology.

Typical assets captured include:

Structural steel
Buildings
Pipework
Equipment
Services
Access systems

Step 3 – Point Cloud Registration

Create registered point clouds and digital site environments.

Step 4 – As-Built Modelling

Develop accurate 3D representations of existing facilities.

Step 5 – Design Development

Design:

Structural modifications
New platforms
Access systems
Equipment supports
Pipe bridges
Facility upgrades

Step 6 – Clash Detection

Identify:

Structural clashes
Mechanical clashes
Installation conflicts
Access restrictions

Step 7 – Engineering Validation

Verify:

Existing member capacity
Connection design
Foundation impacts
Equipment loading

Step 8 – Fabrication Detailing

Produce construction-ready documentation for fabrication and installation.

Step 9 – Construction Support

Support contractors and fabricators during project execution.

Step 10 – Final Verification

Create final as-built documentation where required.

Software & Technology

Hamilton By Design utilises industry-leading software and hardware throughout the project lifecycle.

Reality Capture

FARO Focus S70
FARO Orbis
FARO SCENE
Autodesk ReCap Pro

Design & Drafting

SolidWorks
AutoCAD
Autodesk Inventor
Revit

Engineering Analysis

SolidWorks Simulation
ANSYS
SPACE GASS

Construction Review

Navisworks

Data Management & Collaboration

3DEXPERIENCE Platform
ENOVIA

The 3DEXPERIENCE Platform provides centralised project data management, revision control, document management, engineering workflows and collaboration between engineering, drafting, fabrication and construction teams.

Typical Project Deliverables

Depending on project requirements, deliverables may include:

Drawings

PDF Drawings
DWG Files
DXF Files
General Arrangements
Fabrication Drawings
Installation Drawings

3D Models

STEP Files
SAT Files
Parasolid Files
SolidWorks Models
Inventor Models
IFC Models

Reality Capture Data

E57 Files
RCP Files
RCS Files
LAS Files

Engineering Documentation

Material Take-Offs
Bill of Materials
Design Reports
As-Built Documentation

Australian Standards Commonly Referenced

Projects may be developed in accordance with applicable standards including:

AS 1657 Fixed Platforms, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders
AS 4100 Steel Structures
AS/NZS 1170 Structural Design Actions
AS/NZS 5131 Structural Steelwork Fabrication and Erection
AS 3990 Mechanical Equipment Steelwork
AS 4991 Lifting Devices
AS/NZS 4024 Safety of Machinery

Why Hamilton By Design?

Hamilton By Design combines engineering, drafting and reality capture expertise within a single workflow.

Our team can:

Capture existing conditions using LiDAR scanning
Create accurate as-built models
Develop engineering solutions
Perform structural analysis
Produce fabrication-ready documentation
Manage project information using the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
Support fabrication and construction activities
Deliver verified as-built documentation

This integrated approach helps reduce project risk, minimise rework and improve construction outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Structural Drafting?

Structural drafting is the preparation of detailed drawings and models used to fabricate and construct structural systems.

What is the difference between Structural Drafting and Structural Engineering?

Structural engineering determines the design requirements, while structural drafting converts the design into construction-ready documentation.

Do you support Brownfield projects?

Yes. Hamilton By Design regularly supports Brownfield upgrades, modifications and expansion projects.

Can LiDAR scanning improve drafting accuracy?

Yes. LiDAR scanning provides accurate existing-condition data that can significantly reduce site rework and clashes.

What software do you use?

We utilise SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Inventor, Revit, ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation, Navisworks, FARO SCENE, Autodesk ReCap Pro and the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform.

What file formats can be supplied?

DWG, DXF, PDF, STEP, SAT, Parasolid, IFC, E57, RCP, RCS and LAS formats can be supplied depending on project requirements.

Do you provide fabrication drawings?

Yes. We provide fabrication drawings, assembly drawings, installation drawings and material schedules.

Do you support shipbuilding and marine projects?

Yes. We support shipbuilding, marine infrastructure, wharf upgrades and port-related projects throughout Western Australia.

Need Structural Drafting Support?

Whether you’re planning a new facility, upgrading an existing plant, expanding a shipyard, modifying industrial infrastructure or requiring fabrication-ready structural steel drawings, Hamilton By Design can help.

Our team combines engineering-grade LiDAR scanning, 3D modelling, structural drafting and project data management to deliver accurate, constructable solutions.

Our Clients

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About Us

Secondment
Services

Perth Service Area

Hamilton By Design supports structural drafting, LiDAR scanning, Scan-to-CAD, fabrication drawings and engineering projects throughout Perth and Western Australia.

View our Perth service area location on Google Maps:

From Perth CBD to Henderson, Kwinana, Welshpool, Canning Vale, Bibra Lake, Malaga, Fremantle and regional Western Australia, our team provides engineering-led drafting and reality capture solutions for construction, shipbuilding, manufacturing, smelting, ports and industrial infrastructure projects.