Clash Detection in Revit MEP: Tools,       workflows, Real-world case study

In modern construction, project delays and rework are often caused by poorly coordinated MEP systems. This is why clash detection has become a critical part of BIM workflows, especially when using Revit for MEP design. Revit’s intelligent modelling capabilities help engineers identify conflicts at an early stage, ensuring a smoother installation process and reducing costly site issues. Combined with clash detection tools like Navisworks, the entire coordination workflow becomes more accurate, faster, and highly reliable.

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Essential Tools Used for MEP Clash Detection

1. Revit MEP

Revit allows engineers to model detailed MEP systems with intelligence and accuracy. Built-in tools like Interference Check help identify element conflicts during design.

2. Navisworks Manage

Navisworks provides advanced clash detection, grouping, filtering, tolerance settings, and clash reports. It is the industry-preferred tool for final coordination.

3. BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud

Cloud-based coordination enables multiple teams to upload, compare, and resolve clashes in real time, speeding up communication and decision-making.

Standard Workflow for Revit MEP Clash Detection

Step 1: Model Creation in Revit

MEP teams develop accurate HVAC, electrical, fire protection, and plumbing models using Revit’s parametric tools.

Step 2: Export Models to Navisworks (NWC/NWD)

Files are exported using appropriate coordination settings for consistent geometry.

Step 3: Clash Setup in Navisworks Manage

Clashes are tested between:

• HVAC vs. Structure

• Electrical vs. Architecture

• Plumbing vs. Fire Fighting

• MEP vs. MEP Systems
  

  Settings like hard clash, clearance clash, and duplicate tests improve accuracy.

Step 4: Review & Group Clashes

Clashes are categorised by location, floor, or system for easy tracking.

Step 5: Issue Assignment

Resolved using Autodesk BIM 360 or Navisworks clash viewpoints, assigning each issue to architects, engineers, or contractors.

Step 6: Model Updates in Revit

Teams revise elements, reroute services, or adjust elevations based on clash reports.

Step 7: Final Validation

A final clash test ensures the model is “clash-free” and ready for construction.

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🏗 Real-World Case Study: Reducing 80% Rework in a Commercial Building Project

A leading construction company in the US partnered with Cadeosys for full MEP BIM coordination for a 12-story commercial building. During initial checks, Navisworks detected over 1,500 clashes, mostly involving HVAC ductwork intersecting with electrical cable trays and plumbing risers.

Challenges Identified:

• Congested ceiling areas

• Improper service elevation levels

• Incorrect routing of fire sprinkler lines

• Mismatched architectural openings

Cadeosys Workflow:

• Imported architectural, structural, and MEP models into Navisworks

• Grouped major clash sets by zone and system

• Coordinated weekly review meetings via BIM 360

• Updated Revit models with system rerouting and optimised clearance spaces

Outcome:

• 80% reduction in site rework

• Faster installation time due to clash-free coordinated layouts

• Improved cost efficiency through early conflict resolution

• Delivered a final BIM model ready for fabrication and construction

This case proves how an efficient clash detection workflow saves time, cost, and avoids typical coordination delays.

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Conclusion

Clash detection in Revit MEP is more than a design verification step; it is a powerful method to ensure constructability and prevent errors before they reach the site. With tools like Revit, Navisworks, and BIM 360, MEP teams can deliver highly coordinated, clash-free BIM models. Companies like Cadeosys continue to support global clients with accurate modelling, advanced clash detection, and seamless coordination workflows that improve project outcomes.

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