Ensuring proper sizing guarantees that the facility is efficient and sustainable in the long term. However, incorrect sizing can lead to inefficiency, overload, or system collapse. In this article, we delve into 3 factors that risk leading to incorrect sizing and 2 strategies to use to avoid these mistakes.
Modular and incremental planning
A common pitfall is planning for current needs without considering future changes or increased requirements. By thinking modularly and incrementally, you can ensure that the machinery is flexible enough to adapt to changing flows and needs over time. In other words, focus more on future-proofing the project and ensuring redundancy in physical spaces.
Thorough preliminary study
A thorough preliminary study is crucial to understand all the complex factors affecting sizing. This includes analyzing media, hydraulic conditions, and specifications. Investing time and resources in a thorough preliminary study can help minimize the risk of incorrect sizing by ensuring all relevant variables are considered.
Early involvement of suppliers
Involving suppliers early in the planning process provides valuable expertise and insight that can influence sizing decisions. By working closely with suppliers and leveraging their knowledge and experience, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure that the system is correctly sized for its purpose, capacity requirements, and avoid costly processes/changes in the execution phase.
Work with nature
By considering natural conditions and physical properties, we can create systems that work with the laws of nature instead of against them. This creates systems that are more efficient and sustainable over time.
