IFC: the universal language of BIM

Introduction

Building Information Modelling (BIM) is a collaborative way of working for the design, construction and management of complex assets. To collaborate effectively, a common language is needed for exchanging data between different BIM software applications. That language is IFC (Industry Foundation Classes).

What is IFC?

IFC is an open, non-proprietary file format developed by buildingSMART International. IFC is an international standard (ISO 16739) and is used by all the main BIM software applications.

The advantages of IFC

• Interoperability: IFC allows data to be exchanged between different BIM software applications without loss of information.
• Openness: IFC is an open, non-proprietary format, so it is not controlled by a single vendor.
• Standardisation: IFC is an international standard, so it is guaranteed to be compatible with all BIM software that complies with the standard.
• Completeness: IFC covers every aspect of the BIM process, from design to construction to management.

How IFC is used

IFC can be used to:

• Exchange BIM models between different software applications: this allows design teams to work on a single model even if they use different software.
• Share data with clients and partners: IFC makes it possible to share BIM model data with clients, partners and the relevant authorities.
• Run analyses and simulations: IFC can be used to run energy analyses, structural analyses and other simulations on the BIM model.

IFC use cases

IFC is used in a variety of use cases, including:

• Architectural design: IFC is used to exchange building models between architects, engineers and other professionals.
• Structural engineering: IFC is used to analyse the structure of buildings and to
• Building services: IFC is used to design the electrical, plumbing and heating/cooling systems of buildings.
• Construction management: IFC is used to manage the construction process and monitor progress on site.
• Facilities management: IFC is used to manage the maintenance and operation of buildings.

2023 update

• IFC4.3: The latest version of IFC is 4.3, published in 2023. This version includes new improvements and features, including:
• Better support for infrastructure design
• Better interoperability between BIM software applications
• New data management features
• Adoption in Europe: UNI EN ISO 16739:2023 has been adopted in Europe and incorporates version IFC4.3.
• Italy: In Italy, BIM is mandatory for public contracts worth more than €5 million from 1 January 2025. IFC is one of the file formats accepted for the delivery of BIM models.

EN ISO 16739:2023, entitled “Construction industry, Open data format for information exchange, IFC4.3”, is a significant step forward for the adoption of BIM (Building Information Modelling) internationally.

What does this standard mean?

• Global standardisation: The standard provides a common language for sharing BIM data between software applications and disciplines, ensuring the interoperability and consistency of models.
• Better collaboration: Standardisation makes collaboration easier between architects, engineers, surveyors and other professionals involved in the building process.
• Efficiency and cost reduction: Interoperability removes the need to duplicate work and convert data, making the process more efficient and reducing costs.
• Higher project quality: The standard makes it easier to verify and validate BIM models, ensuring higher project quality.

What is new in version 4.3?

• Better support for infrastructure design: The new version includes new features for modelling infrastructure such as roads, bridges and tunnels.
• Better interoperability between BIM software applications: The standard has been updated to improve interoperability between different BIM software applications.
• New data management features: Version 4.3 includes new data management features, such as data classification and properties.

Conclusions

IFC is a powerful tool for BIM, offering many advantages for the construction sector. Using IFC can improve collaboration, interoperability and standardisation in the BIM process.

B1P Group

B1P Group is a leader in BIM consultancy and implementation. Contact us to find out how we can help you use IFC and make the most of its potential.