Import an IFC Model into Fabbim

After preparing the model in Tekla Structures and exporting an IFC file, the next step is to import this model into Fabbim. This import is central because it allows the platform to transform model data into information that is genuinely useful for fabrication, logistics and field tracking.

The goal is not only to display a model. Fabbim uses the file content to structure a project, identify assemblies, link parts to their groups, prepare search, 3D visualization, labels and future status changes.

Why import an IFC model into Fabbim

The IFC file contains the information that allows Fabbim to understand the project: objects, their structure, their properties and the links between them. By importing this model, the platform can organize the data in a way that is usable by the teams.

The import makes it possible to:

• create the project foundation in Fabbim;
• recognize assemblies and their composition;
• display parts in the 3D view;
• retrieve marks, weights, profiles and other properties;
• prepare label printing;
• set up traceability workflows.

Without this stage, there is no solid bridge between the fabrication model and field actions. IFC import is therefore the starting point of Fabbim’s practical use.

What to prepare before import

A good import starts before uploading the file to the platform. It is recommended to check that the project is ready to be created in Fabbim and that the exported IFC file is consistent with the intended structure.

• the project or project reference is clearly defined;
• the exported model matches the correct revision;
• the assemblies are properly structured;
• the useful properties are present;
• the marks are readable and consistent;
• the teams know what they will track after import.

This preparation avoids unnecessary imports, revision duplicates and structures that are impractical for daily work.

Typical steps for importing an IFC model

The import process in Fabbim is designed to be simple. Once the project has been created, the user can upload the IFC file so that the platform can analyze its content.

1. open Fabbim and access the project area;
2. create a new project or select the existing project;
3. choose the IFC file to import;
4. launch the model analysis;
5. let Fabbim structure the assemblies and parts;
6. check the result of the import;
7. verify the 3D view and the imported properties;
8. start setting up traceability.

In a well-organized workflow, this operation becomes quick and repeatable for each new project or each new revision of the model.

What Fabbim analyzes during import

During import, Fabbim does not simply store the file. The platform reads the model content and extracts the useful elements needed to create a clear representation of the project.

Depending on the structure of the IFC file, Fabbim can use:

• assemblies;
• parts;
• GUIDs;
• names and marks;
• profiles;
• weights;
• lengths;
• phase, package, zone or workflow information depending on the project preparation.

This analysis then feeds the views, filters, exports and field actions such as label printing or status-change scans.

Expected result after import

Once the import is complete, the project must be readable and usable. Users should be able to quickly find their assemblies, view the associated parts and prepare the next tracking steps.

In practical terms, a good import result makes it possible to:

• see the expected assemblies;
• identify marks correctly;
• open the model in a clear 3D environment;
• search for an object or a mark;
• prepare identification labels;
• organize the next logistics workflow steps.

Checks to perform after import

It is strongly recommended to perform a quick check after each IFC import. This verification ensures that the project is ready to use without unpleasant surprises.

• check the number of imported assemblies;
• verify a few key marks;
• open the 3D view and isolate some objects;
• confirm that the important properties are present;
• verify the logic of groups, phases or workflows;
• ensure that the data is consistent with the expected revision.

This quick check avoids discovering a problem later when printing a label or preparing a shipment.

How the import prepares the rest of the project

Once the IFC model has been imported, Fabbim becomes much more than a simple viewing platform. The project can enter an operational logic.

From this import onward, teams can:

• isolate an assembly in the 3D model;
• search for a part or mark;
• print a QR code label;
• scan an assembly to change its status;
• prepare truck loading;
• track flows up to the site or the galvanizer.

The IFC import is therefore the moment when fabrication data becomes usable in reality.

Importing a new revision

During the life of a project, the model can evolve. A new revision may modify certain assemblies, add parts or change properties. It is therefore useful to have a clear method when a new IFC must be imported.

The important thing is to keep a clean revision logic, so that it is clear which model serves as the operational reference. A structured import helps limit confusion between several versions of the same project.

Common mistakes to avoid

Certain errors often occur during model imports:

• importing the wrong file or the wrong revision;
• not checking the data after import;
• assuming that all properties were exported without verification;
• working with a poorly readable structure from the start;
• sharing project use before validating the imported content;
• neglecting consistency between the model and field workflows.

By avoiding these pitfalls, IFC import becomes a stable, reliable and easy step to standardize.

Concrete benefits for teams

A well-executed IFC import immediately brings benefits to the whole company:

• project managers get a structured view of the project;
• the workshop can more easily find the assemblies to process;
• logistics prepares departures more effectively;
• the site receives clear and traceable information;
• exchanges between office and field become smoother;
• the project is built on a common foundation that everyone can understand.

Conclusion

Importing an IFC model into Fabbim is a strategic step. It is what transforms a fabrication model into an operational project, ready for search, visualization, label printing and field traceability.

When the model has been well prepared and correctly exported, the import into Fabbim becomes fast, readable and highly valuable. It creates a solid foundation for the rest of the project, from fabrication through to site operations.

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