99% of EPC contractors consider that engineering design is a documentation cost and can be managed either by freelancers or by hiring a design consultant by paying 1% of the total project cost.

In the world of engineering and construction, EPC contractors are essential players in the execution of large-scale projects, responsible for turning intricate plans into physical reality. However, at the heart of every successful EPC project lies a fundamental aspect that often goes unnoticed: engineering design. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of engineering design in the EPC contracting world, focusing on the crucial stages of Feasibility Study, Pre-Bid Engineering, Basic Engineering, and Detailed Engineering. 

Irrespective of the size of the project when contractors decide that engineering is not required, they are ready to take risk.

Engineering design serves as the backbone of any EPC project, converting conceptual ideas into detailed engineering documents that guide construction. While EPC contractors primarily deal with the execution of projects, they heavily rely on these design documents for the successful completion of their tasks. Let’s delve into the stages of engineering design that EPC contractors must consider when bidding for a project. 

1. Feasibility Study 

The initial phase of any project is the feasibility study. At this stage, EPC contractors must assess whether the project is viable from an engineering, economic, and environmental standpoint. This is where engineering design begins to take shape, as contractors need to provide a conceptual design that outlines the project’s key parameters. These early design documents are instrumental in estimating costs, timelines, and potential risks. 

2. Pre-Bid Engineering  

When EPC contractors decide to bid on a project, they are often required to submit detailed pre-bid engineering documents. This phase involves refining the initial conceptual design to meet the client’s specific requirements and expectations. It’s at this point that contractors must make a crucial decision: whether to hire in-house design engineers or outsource the engineering design process to experienced professionals. 

Outsourcing the design process can be a cost-effective and efficient choice, especially when working on multiple projects simultaneously. However, regardless of the approach chosen, EPC contractors must have a clear understanding of the design’s scope, complexity, and requirements to ensure accurate and competitive bids. 

3. Basic Engineering 

Basic engineering is the stage where the project’s overall design begins to take a more defined shape. It involves developing detailed engineering documents, often referred to as the “Front-End Engineering Design” (FEED) package. EPC contractors must ensure that these documents adhere to industry standards and regulatory requirements. 

During basic engineering, key decisions are made regarding equipment selection, process design, and materials. This phase is critical as it lays the foundation for the subsequent detailed engineering stage. Accurate and well-thought-out basic engineering documents are essential for obtaining approvals and permits from regulatory authorities. 

4. Detailed Engineering 

Detailed engineering is the final and most intricate phase of engineering design. It involves creating comprehensive engineering documents that provide precise instructions for construction and installation. These documents encompass everything from architectural and structural plans to electrical and mechanical specifications. 

For EPC contractors, timely approval of detailed engineering documents is essential to maintaining project schedules. Delays in approvals can lead to costly setbacks and contractual disputes. Therefore, EPC contractors must have a firm grasp of the approval processes and timelines, collaborating closely with design engineers to ensure smooth progress. 

Engineering design is not just a side task; it’s a critical aspect that can make or break a project. EPC contractors rely on detailed engineering documents to execute projects efficiently and to meet client expectations. Understanding the intricacies of engineering design, from feasibility studies to detailed engineering, is essential for successful bidding and project execution.  

Not considering the engineering design consultant is like, you have the world’s most secure car running at 100 km speed with no seat belt.

Whether EPC contractors choose to hire in-house design engineers or outsource the design process, clarity on the various phases of engineering design is paramount. By recognizing the importance of engineering design in their business, EPC contractors can deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality, ultimately ensuring their success in the competitive world of EPC contracting.