Optimizing Rebar Process and Supply Chain Management for Minimized Cutting Waste: A Building Information Modeling-Based Data-Driven Approach

Rebar procurement inefficiencies, such as inaccurate quantity estimation and misaligned delivery schedules, often lead to excessive waste, supply shortages, and project delays. While existing optimization methods reduce cutting waste, their effectiveness diminishes without integration into supply chain management (SCM). This study presents an integrated framework to optimize rebar processing and supply chain management (SCM) by leveraging Building Information Modeling (BIM) and data-driven optimization strategies. A 24-floor case study validated the approach, optimizing continuous main rebars into special lengths and combining discontinuous lengths into cutting patterns based on special lengths. Rebar orders were organized into 12 batches, each meeting a 15-ton minimum and requiring order placement at least two months in advance. An activity database integrated rebar optimization with the construction schedule, facilitating SCM analysis. BIM automation streamlined procurement by generating Bar Bending Schedules (BBSs) and synchronizing rebar tracking with real-time updates, improving coordination, efficiency, and project outcomes, particularly in high-rise building projects.