3D machine control files can increase productivity, accuracy and safety on a job site, not to mention reducing costs. While the construction industry is headed toward using machine control virtually 100% of the time, we aren’t at that level yet. As experts in building machine control files, we certainly encourage engineers to move toward this technology, but not until they’ve considered the following factors.
1. Is Your Team Ready?
While we can build you highly accurate 3D machine control files, if you don’t have a team trained to use these files, then you might not be ready to take the plunge into the machine control world. You either need to hire professionals experienced in using equipment with machine controls or train your team.
2. Can You Afford To Make The Switch?
In some ways, we’d say that you really cannot afford to not make the switch, as using 3D machine control files and enabled equipment will save you money in the long run. After all, with machine control, you improve accuracy and avoid costly mistakes. You also improve safety, because you will need fewer workers on site. Thirdly, machine control can reduce the time needed for excavating, grading and so forth.
Still, you do have to upgrade equipment or purchase new equipment and you’ll have to train your staff or hire experienced drivers. You’ll need to weigh the pros and cons, but keep in mind that this is definitely the way our industry is moving, and keeping up with the latest tech can give you an edge during the bidding process.
3. Which Software Should You Use?
When it comes to 3D machine control files, you have many excellent software options, but which one is best? Should you use Trimble machine control? Should you use Topcon? Or perhaps AGTEK? Essentially, all of these are excellent options, and you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
In some cases, it can be smart to go with a system with which you already are familiar. If you’ve used AGTEK software, such as Gradework 4D or Sitework 4D, you might want to stick with AGTEK. If you have worked with Trimble products, perhaps you want to stick with their 3D machine control software.
The good news is that if you wish to outsource the creation of 3D machine control files, the team at EarthCalc is able to use just about any type of software you select. We have been using AGTEK, Topcon and Trimble for decades to create dirt estimates and machine control files.
In order for us to create 3D machine control files, we will need an approved set of plans in PDF format as well as the matching CAD files. Cost and turnaround time varies depending on the complexity and size of your project, but we always do our best to provide you with affordable services as quickly as possible. To get started, simply go to our homepage and click on the tab that says “Send Us Work,” and we will get started on your unique project.