OP - ED

BUILDING THE FOUNDATION

FOR FUTURE GROWTH OF MODERN METHODS OF CONSTRUCTION ADOPTION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

BY DANNY WATERS, LEAD COST MANAGER, TURNER & TOWNSEND QATAR

Construction has experienced a number of innovative developments recently, similar to other industries. New techniques are always being created, enhanced, and modified to suit the demands of the 21st century in terms of sustainability and efficiency. Traditional construction techniques have been plagued by project delays, cost escalations, and unreliable completion dates. A step in right direction avoiding the typical ‘brick & mortar’ challenges is the adoption of modern methods of construction (MMC). The use of modern methods of construction (MMC) is becoming increasingly popular in Qatar, like the rest of the world. In light of major sporting events, Qatar had a keen focus on maximising quality and reducing the construction programme to meet impending deadlines. The benefits of using MMC are sevenfold, not only is quality maximised but there are significant environmental benefits and an opportunity to reduce health and safety risks.

Modernisation of the construction eco-system:

Modernisation of the construction industry is paramount to increase its sustainability and move towards a circular economy. A circular economy is implementing a sustainable model for production and consumption through optimising resources and reducing and recovering waste. MMC plays a leading role as we move towards a circular economy and requires buy-in across the value chain. There are many different types of MMC that can be implemented. Volumetric modular - Prefabricated modules produced in a factory that are stacked and joined on-site to form a completed building. Structural Insulated Panels - Wall and ceiling panels that are manufactured offsite and assembled onsite. Offsite components – This includes structural elements (columns, beams, slabs etc) and non-structural elements (pods, utility cupboards, risers etc.) Additive Manufacturing – Printing part of the building components based on digital design and manufacturing techniques. Traditional building product led – Changes to products that leads to reduced input from site labour and improved quality such as pre-cut products. On site process improvement - Use of innovative techniques, such as lean construction, digital augmentation, and drones. >>>

Why is MMC Beneficial?

There are significant benefits to using MMC in lieu of traditional methods as highlighted below which range from the constructability to quality control and reduction of waste:

Improved Quality: Increased quality is obtained through the production of elements by a precise manufacturing process that is completed in a controlled environment such as a factory. The conditions are optimal for production and can be stored in correct conditions until ready for use. Any defects can be found at source and rectified prior to delivery and installation on site.

Shorter construction programme: The overall time required on site can be significantly reduced through MMC with increased efficiency for site activities or reducing the amount works completed on site and moving it off site.

Less exposure to health and safety risks on site: Health & safety can be prioritised and achieved with less works being completed on site and an increase in offsite activities. In a factorycontrolled setting activities can be completed in a less congested space, working at height risk can be minimised and mechanical assistance can be provided. Exposure to high temperatures working outside can be reduced which is a particular challenge in the Middle East.

Reduced impact on the environment and implementation of a circular economy: The raw materials used in MMC are mostly the same as materials used in traditional construction. However, the manufacturing process allows for an increased focus on sustainability. In a factorycontrolled setting, waste is easier to manage. Studies suggest that circa 90% less waste is created by using a precise manufacturing process as quantities can be calculated exactly. In addition, there is an increase in the use of recycled materials with any surplus making its way back into the supply chain or being stored in optimal conditions for use later down the line.

Qatar – accelerating the use of MMC in the Middle East

MMC has been used more frequently in Qatar in recent years, and one of the catalysts for its increased use has been the delivery of major sporting event facilities. MMC has been used to build support facilities, fan villages and a flagship stadium. The design of the stadium followed a ‘plug and play’ strategy where prefabricated units were completed in a workshop and then installed on site. The modular steel structure and the 974 no. re-used shipping containers enables the stadium to be demountable, the first of its kind.

Despite the increased use of MMC, the methods are still far from being the standard route and it could be used more often. The use of volumetric modules and panellised units has been predominantly used for temporary structures (such as event fan villages) rather than permanent structures, and pods/MEP modules have not been used frequently. Pre-cast products are more widely used, as seen in housing projects, stadia and low-rise buildings. Although it has not been used often on high rise buildings.

Qatar MMC Market Capability

There is in-country capability for supply of volumetric units, panellised units, pods (including bathroom, living room and kitchen) and MEP modules (such as utility cupboards) preventing an over reliance on overseas providers. The factories utilise innovative machinery sourced from overseas for the manufacturing process. The products provided are compliant with local regulations including the Qatari Construction Specification and Qatar Civil Defence Regulations.

There are several precast suppliers with large factories able to provide key elements such as foundations, slabs, boundary walls, beams, staircases, and cladding panels. As mentioned above the suppliers do not have extensive experience of using

HEALTH & SAFETY CAN BE PRIORITISED AND ACHIEVED WITH LESS WORKS BEING COMPLETED ON SITE AND AN INCREASE IN OFFSITE ACTIVITIES.

their products on high rise buildings but adjustments can be made within their factories to meet the demand if the opportunity arose. Additive manufacturing in construction is currently mainly limited to model making and interior details. Although we do expect more providers to enter the market and for the offering to expand.

MMC – Embracing a new era

By using MMC, the construction sector has the chance to advance toward a circular economy. The next stage is for Qatar to expand on its marketproven capabilities and make them the norm rather than the exception for construction projects. Public policy reform will play a fundamental role in this as the construction sector seeks to define a robust approach to improved sustainable construction practices. International Offsite manufacturing companies are establishing offices in the region, and over the next five years, the sector is expected to mature. MMC will be viewed as a crucial component of future construction methodologies, enabling large-scale, high-quality construction.