Elevate AEC Efficiency with Advanced Printing Solutions
Posted on 9 October, 2024 / Under Business Solutions, news, office equipment leasing

Revolutionizing AEC Workflows | The Role of Adv. Printing Solutions

The architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industries thrive on precision, speed, and seamless collaboration. With the increasing complexity of projects and the need for timely communication across teams, having the right tools in place is essential.

One of the key elements that support efficient workflows in the AEC field is advanced printing technology. From wide-format printers for blueprints to managed print services (MPS) for optimizing resources, the right printing solutions can make a substantial difference in how smoothly your projects run.

As the second in our AEC Series, this blog will explore how your AEC firms can revolutionize workflows with state-of-the-art printing solutions, helping you enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve overall project delivery.

Why Do Advanced Printing Solutions Matter in AEC?

In AEC projects, high-quality, accurate documents are essential. Whether you’re an architect drafting detailed blueprints or an engineer creating complex schematics, precision is key. The accuracy of prints directly impacts project timelines, resource allocation, and cost management. Low-quality or delayed prints can lead to costly mistakes and delays on the job site.

Modern wide-format printers and multifunction printers (MFPs) have become critical assets for AEC professionals. These devices offer the ability to produce large-scale, highly detailed blueprints, technical drawings, and documents quickly and efficiently. But more than just producing prints, these solutions enable collaboration, enhance on-site flexibility, and help firms manage their printing needs in a cost-effective manner.

What are the Recommended Printing Devices for AEC Printing?

Choosing the right printer is crucial. Here are a few highly recommended devices tailored for the AEC industry’s specific needs:

Canon imagePROGRAF TX-4000

  • MSRP: $5,995
  • Type: 44-inch Wide-Format Printer
  • Ideal For: Architects, engineers, and construction professionals who need fast, high-quality printing of detailed blueprints, maps, and posters.
  • Key Features:
    • High-density pigment ink for clear, sharp details.
    • Fast print speeds (up to 3 D-sized prints per minute).
    • Supports a wide range of media sizes up to 44 inches wide.
  • Toner Information: Uses a 5-color LUCIA TD pigment ink system.
    • Black Cartridge: Canon PFI-320BK (300 ml, $150) or PFI-330BK (700 ml, $250).

The Canon imagePROGRAF TX-4000 stands out for its exceptional detail and speed, making it a perfect fit for high-stakes projects requiring accuracy in blueprints and design drafts.

HP DesignJet T830 Multifunction Printer

  • MSRP: $4,495
  • Type: 36-inch Wide-Format MFP
  • Ideal For: Construction teams who need versatile printing and scanning capabilities on the go.
  • Key Features:
    • Integrated 36-inch scanner for quick document digitization.
    • Wireless printing for easy, on-site access.
    • Supports both office and mobile printing through the HP Smart app.
  • Toner Information: Uses HP 728 DesignJet Ink Cartridges.
    • Black Cartridge: HP 728 (130 ml, $72; 300 ml, $125).

This device’s flexibility and mobility make it ideal for job sites, where the ability to print and scan documents quickly can save time and reduce mistakes.

Kyocera TASKalfa 6054ci

  • MSRP: $13,000
  • Type: High-Speed Color Multifunction Printer
  • Ideal For: High-volume printing environments such as large engineering or architectural firms.
  • Key Features:
    • 60 pages per minute (ppm) printing speed.
    • Advanced security features for handling sensitive project documents.
    • Optional finishing options like booklet-making.
  • Toner Information: High-yield toner cartridges for extended usage.
    • Black Toner: TK-8369K (MSRP $60).
    • Color Toners: Cyan, magenta, and yellow ($100 each).

For firms with high print volumes, the Kyocera TASKalfa 6054ci ensures fast, high-quality output with robust security features, helping firms manage large-scale document production.

Mobile Printing for On-the-Go AEC Teams

AEC professionals are often not confined to office environments. Many work on job sites, client offices, and field locations where immediate access to updated documents is essential.

Mobile printing solutions enable architects, engineers, and contractors to print directly from their smartphones or tablets. With these solutions, updates and new versions of blueprints, designs, or contracts can be printed and accessed on-site in real-time.

Mobile Apps for AEC Printing:

  1. Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY App – This app allows users to wirelessly print from their mobile devices using Canon imagePROGRAF printers. AEC teams can print large-format blueprints on-site, ensuring they always have the most up-to-date documents.
  2. HP Smart App – Paired with the HP DesignJet T830, this app enables easy remote printing and scanning, making it ideal for construction teams working across multiple sites.
  3. Kyocera Mobile Print App – This app allows secure access to project files and enables mobile printing for large documents directly from mobile devices.

Mobile printing increases flexibility and allows teams to make changes or produce documents without leaving the job site, reducing downtime and avoiding errors caused by outdated information.

What are The Benefits of Managed Print Services (MPS)?

Managed Print Services (MPS) are an excellent solution for AEC firms that want to control their printing environment better. MPS providers help manage all aspects of the print process, including device management, security, and toner replenishment. For AEC firms with complex needs, MPS can reduce overall printing costs and improve efficiency by providing the following:

  • Cost Management: MPS helps firms avoid unnecessary print jobs and waste, streamlining device usage across the company.
  • Toner Supply Management: Automatic toner replenishment ensures that your devices are never out of service, keeping projects on track without downtime.
  • Enhanced Security: Protect sensitive documents such as design plans or contracts with secure printing options that ensure only authorized users can access print jobs.

Brands like HP and Xerox offer robust MPS programs that allow AEC firms to maximize their printing infrastructure while reducing costs and enhancing document security.

Printing is an integral part of AEC workflows, from the design and planning stages to construction and delivery. Choosing the right wide-format printers, multifunction devices, and mobile printing solutions can significantly enhance the way teams work and collaborate. Devices like the Canon imagePROGRAF TX-4000, HP DesignJet T830, and Kyocera TASKalfa 6054ci are designed to meet the demands of modern AEC firms.

By incorporating Managed Print Services and leveraging the power of mobile printing, AEC professionals can streamline workflows, improve accuracy, and cut costs. Investing in advanced printing solutions is not just about printing documents—it’s about ensuring the success and efficiency of your projects.

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Ready to elevate your AEC workflows with advanced printing solutions? Contact us today to learn more about the devices and services that can transform your firm’s productivity.