As an expert in the field of architecture and construction, I have seen firsthand the benefits of modular construction. This method of building is becoming increasingly popular, especially in situations where traditional construction methods are not feasible. For example, when there is limited space for expansion or when the cost of buying land is too high. In this article, I will discuss the advantages of modular construction and provide an example of a successful modular project. The concept of modular construction has been around for over a century.
In 1916, architect Walter Gropius developed the idea of a “Hausbaufabrik” or housing construction factory. This was in response to the lack of affordable housing for workers during World War I. Gropius's first opportunity to put this theory into practice was with the Torten estate in Dessau, Germany. The project consisted of 314 cube-shaped terraced houses that were built using prefabricated hollow concrete blocks for the load-bearing walls and Gropius's Rapidbalken reinforced concrete joist system for the roofs.
All structural components were prefabricated off-site and then placed using a crane. However, despite the initial success of the project, several construction defects were discovered once residents moved in. This led to modifications being made by the residents themselves. This highlights one of the main advantages of modular architecture – flexibility. The use of the same module in multiple configurations allows for a wide variety of designs and easy modifications.
This also means that any module can be replaced or added without affecting the rest of the structure. So what exactly is modular construction? It is a process in which prefabricated buildings consist of repeated volumetric sections called modules. These modules are assembled off-site and then delivered to the intended location. They can be placed side-by-side, stacked end-to-end, or in a variety of other configurations and styles. Once in place, the modules are connected to form the general structure of the building. One of the main distinctions of modular construction is that some elements can be built in parts other than complete volumetric modules.
For example, roofing materials for modular buildings can consist of tiles supported on slats or roof sheets on straps. In some cases, the entire building can be just one module that is almost completely assembled and then delivered to the construction site. The interface between the roof and the modular units is designed to withstand both compression and tension due to rising wind. Ceilings in modular buildings are generally designed as separate structures that are continuously supported by the internal walls of the modules or as ceilings that extend freely between the outer walls. Structural connections between the modules are necessary to ensure their integrity and robustness, but the details may vary depending on the form of the module and its specific application.
The use of modules with integral corridors can also improve construction speed by avoiding weather sealing problems during installation and finishing work. Additionally, the modular design allows for future expansion of the structure by adding more blocks and rooms. The benefits of modular construction are obtained through prefabrication, which means that the initial design phase is critical. This includes space planning, detailed design, service integration, and coordination. The strength of modular buildings comes from the joints between the modules, with a minimum clamping force typically assumed to be equivalent to half the loaded weight of the module (minimum value of 30 kN).
While all modular buildings are prefabricated, not all prefabricated buildings are modular. The typical acquisition process for modular buildings involves close collaboration between the customer, designer, and manufacturer in all phases of the project to maximize the benefits of remote construction and manufacturing efficiency. As an expert in the field, I believe that modular construction is the way of the future. It not only provides flexibility and cost savings, but it also promotes sustainability and recyclability. The discrete modular units used in this method of construction are usually self-supporting structures or can be based on a separate structural framework in the case of tall buildings.
This makes them a great option for a variety of projects.
