Exploring the Application of Computer-Aided Design in Structural Designs for Sustainable Infrastructure Projects

This study explores the role of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) in advancing sustainable structural design, focusing on a portal frame warehouse as a case study. As construction demands shift towards sustainability, CAD tools such as AutoCAD, ProtaStructure, and Tekla Structures offer enhanced precision, design optimization, and material efficiency. The research compares manual method and CAD-based approaches in designing a 20 m × 50 m steel portal frame warehouse, following BS 5950 standards. The portar frame design involved manually analysing loads, selecting sections, and designing columns, base plates, and footings, while CAD softwares performed 3D modelling and automatic code checks. After the analysis and design, 203×203×46 UC (276 kg) was obtained at a rate of ₦331,200/section for manual approach, while with CAD approach, 254×254×73 UB (438 kg) at a rate of ₦525,600/section was obtained. However, for the footing. 0.216 m³ at ₦9,720 was obtained for manual approach, while 0.8 m³ at ₦23,040 was obtained for CAD approach. In total, for a section, manual design will cost ₦653,398 while CAD design cost will ₦864,814. It is recommended that CAD-based design should be prioritized for large-scale or safety-critical infrastructure due to its precision, efficiency, and compliance with modern codes. For smaller or budget-limited projects, a hybrid approach combining manual and CAD methods is suggested. Investment in CAD training and software can drive long-term sustainability and structural resilience.