As the construction industry adopts building information modelling (BIM) to streamline project delivery, the demand for high-quality, data-rich Revit content remains strong.
Altherm ICF, a leading provider of insulated concrete formwork solutions, has stepped up with a well-developed Revit family that supports accurate modelling, co-ordination, and scheduling in BIM environments.
Efficient representation using curtain panels
Altherm’s ICF blocks are implemented in Revit using curtain panel systems. This approach enables a consistent and organised way to integrate the blocks into building models. Curtain panels allow designers to replicate the modular nature of ICF systems while maintaining the flexibility required for custom design and accurate quantity take-offs.
The process begins with setting up a placeholder curtain wall, which acts as the host for the ICF blocks. The block thickness is controlled by adjusting the horizontal grid of the curtain wall. For instance, a typical block thickness of 400 mm can be defined early in the modelling process.
Manual placement of vertical grids allows designers to replicate the actual coursing pattern used on-site, ensuring the digital model matches the physical installation.
Customisable control parameters
A significant strength of the Altherm ICF Revit family is its adaptability. Users can manipulate straight blocks to extend beyond the curtain wall, accurately modelling where blocks touch into adjoining walls.
Corner blocks also have extension controls, which is vital when planning for corners in formwork. These parameters help prevent design errors and highlight any configurations that may exceed manufacturer-recommended block dimensions.
Altherm emphasises the importance of confirming layout and block sizes with their technical team to ensure constructability. This collaborative step ensures the model isn’t just accurate visually but is also buildable.
Structural openings and detailing
Another useful feature included in the Revit file is a rectangular cutting element. This tool enables users to create structural openings for doors and windows easily.
The standard Revit cutting tool allows these openings to be cleanly formed within the ICF block assembly. The cutting element is transparent by default, making it easy to identify and adjust. To streamline drawings and reduce visual clutter, users can apply view filters to hide the transparent material in construction documents.
Documentation and scheduling
Once the design reaches a documentation stage, the benefits of using a robust Revit family become clear. The Altherm ICF model supports automated scheduling of block quantities and cavity closures. This allows project teams to generate detailed take-offs and procurement lists directly from the model, eliminating the need for manual calculations and reducing the risk of ordering errors.
These schedules can be customised to report block types, sizes, and even total volumes, providing project managers and contractors with vital data for planning and budgeting. Furthermore, this level of detail supports sustainability goals, as accurate material forecasting helps reduce waste and optimise on-site logistics.
Best practices for modelling
Altherm’s guidance encourages users to treat the BIM model as an extension of real-world construction logic. By aligning the digital coursing pattern with physical block arrangements, users can produce more accurate visualisations, clash detection models, and installation guides.
Designers are also encouraged to liaise with Altherm at an early stage in the design process. The technical team can provide project-specific advice on block configuration, structural requirements, and compatibility with other components.
Conclusion
The Altherm ICF Revit family embodies a thoughtful and practical approach to integrating formwork systems into Building Information Modelling (BIM).
With customisable controls, innovative documentation tools, and alignment with actual construction methods, it empowers engineers and designers to produce accurate, buildable, and efficient models.
For teams looking to adopt ICF solutions while staying fully BIM-compliant, Altherm provides a strong foundation, both literally and digitally.
For more information visit altherm.ie/BIM_Revit_Model
