Capital Project Cost Estimating

[kewe]

I'm a project engineer at a batch chemical manufacturing facility, currently managing projects ranging from $10K to $5MM. The existing state of our capital cost estimating system is poor and haphazard. I would like to locate a reliable estimating system (preferably software) which is geared towards chemical process systems, and which can produce estimates in the +/- 20% range. We have used Questimate software in the past, but it appears to be morphing into a huge project management software package, which is more than we need. I would be most appreciative if someone with some experience in this are can point me in the right direction. KEWE

 

[ellinas]

Have read your message ! Indeed the Cost Estimating software is very proprietary unfortunately. Some companies have managed to establish a good Cost Estimating / Scheduling / Planning department and their information is very closed. They also have a very updated and reliable data bank for their work. In the market on the other hand, there are not so many and complete software programmes suited to Chemical Engineering Projects, and you will have to refer to a number of separate softwares that handle specific tasks. The problem however rests for you to eventually assemble the data and compile your Project Cost Tabulations. I have been searching and reviewing for many years this matter and have arrived to the conclusion that one has to wait for an eventual software programme that will be made for Chem. Engrs. but until then good hunting ! Dimi

 

[jrains]

There is a book that has helped me, along with just plain experience. It is not software but may be of use to you. The title "Planning, Estimating, and Control of Chemical Construction Projects" by Pablo Navarette and William C. Cole. Make sure to get the 2nd Edition if you are interested. It is focused more on Project Management, but it has much data on cost estimating.

Good Luck!

 

[neer1980]

Hi,
I am doing a project on the evaluation of various capital cost-estimating softwares. I agree, that not many softwares are avaliable that can do the costing in detail!! But, some softwares are available that can find the equipment costs during the conceptual design phase of the project like:
1. Icarus (Aspen tech)The complete cost-estimation package.
2. Econexpert
3. EstPro
4. Capcost
5. Matche
Hope this information helps you...