Modular buildings
î † relevant to offsite manufacturing processes as it is to offsite design and architecture. The optimum technology: modular construction Offsite manufacture encompasses a variety of panelised and volumetric modular methods of construction. At the forefront of offsite techniques, modular building has had a remarkable impact on reducing costs while increasing quality and safety measures. Having gained considerable momentum over the past few years, modular construction makes up 60-70 per cent of offsite manufacture and reduces build times by an impressive 50-60 per cent. Module selection is influenced by transportation dimensions and shipping distances. A number of other factors are also holistically considered to achieve optimal design efficiency: module connection details and quantities, installation and crane costing rates, specific site logistics, foundation/ transfer deck, volumes of required materials and other service core requirements. The demand for customisation has led the manufacturing industry to develop methods for adaptation during mass production while meeting individual customer needs. These methods identify design parameters that can be integrated into architectural CAD applications using Revit structures. Design parameters include: customer view that controls the modular design according to requirements; engineering view that constrains the module design according to deflection, strength, wind loads, fire, acoustic and building regulations; production view that identifies product dimensions and transportation constraints according to factory regulations and capacity; and site view for assembly constraints on site according to site layout/plans.
Having gained considerable momentum over the past few years, modular construction makes up 60-70 per cent of offsite manufacture and reduces build times by an impressive 50-60 per cent Benefits of modular and volumetric technology Modular and volumetric practices augment the construction industry with a multitude of benefits that span from greener, healthier environments to maximised sustainability, heavily reduced costs and quick build times. Volumetric technology allows providers to customise any modular building to meet exacting needs and blend in with surroundings. Each individual material can be selected specifically for its performance characteristics, tailoring every inch of a modular build. Eco-friendly materials are often specified, and waste is recycled for future projects wherever possible. Not only this, but components are also available in a range of sizes for expansions whenever necessary. As units are factory manufactured, stringent quality control processes can be undertaken within these well-managed environments. These in-house conditions also prevent weather from inhibiting the manufacturing process, guaranteeing efficiency. On top of this, modular construction enables site work and building processes to be completed simultaneously, reducing labour costs and build times. Transportation rarely poses issues, as preconstructed, self-contained units can be transported to virtually any location, ideal
when new premises need to be constructed within limited timeframes. As modules are designed to withstand long-distance transportation and craning onto foundations, they are structurally stronger than most traditionally constructed building materials. About MPBA As the single recognised voice for promoting and marketing members’ products and services, the MPBA plays a key role in the connecting of sectors in the modular and portable building industry. The association collaborates with specialist technical advisors to enhance innovation in the design and manufacture of modular buildings. These can be designed and manufactured from timber, steel or concrete, in any size and shape to meet individual client needs while ensuring full compliance with building regulations. With the MPBA’s assistance, offsite construction companies remain ever competitive in the modular and portable building multi-billion-pound industry. The association is represented on committees for BSI, LPCB-Expert Group D and works with BRE, LABC, CLG, NHS, Cskills-CITB, NHS, LHC, CCS and Carbon Trust to represent the industry. L FURTHER INFORMATION mpba.biz
Issue 20.3 | HEALTH BUSINESS MAGAZINE
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