Modern Building Services

MODERN BUILDING SERVICES APRIL 2021 29 FEATURE PACKAGED PLANT Project Review For the project review stage, early engagement with stakeholders is essential. By applying DFMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) principles, which focus on simpler manufacture and efficient assembly, this then drives the project design, with the building services built around the offsite solution. This early engagement ensures that stakeholders are clear which MMC are to be used, benefiting the project hugely as all stakeholder contractors will have an understanding of, and can input into, the design process. Careful consideration should also be given to the product application and selection, looking at any potential limitations or restrictions. This will mean that any impact the offsite solution may have on building or other services will be known at an early stage. Every project brings a different set of challenges. Factors such as access, delivery, and health and safety, all must be taken into account. The offsite manufacturing needs to overlay the main construction programme accurately, without early engagement the lead time may become an issue. Design stage Putting a bespoke HVAC solution together is often complex, so having to continually alter the design because the building model is being changed can be extremely challenging. This can be partly overcome by ensuring the CAD Revit model is fixed, avoiding this distraction in the design process. Another pitfall to be avoided is a clash with other building services that would affect the offsite solution. When your packaged solution, in the case of HVAC, can be found in anything from corridor pipework to rooftop assemblies, from plantrooms to building risers, there’s plenty of opportunity for accidental conflict if not managed properly. By carrying out ‘clash detection’ at this stage, often design features can be built into the offsite solution to mitigate this and assist with co-ordination. Managing the build programme For the manufacturing stage, when designing an offsite solution, it is always wise to be mindful of any component lead time, otherwise there may be delays caused by the availability of product that is part of the solution. Also, by utilising their project management skills and experience, offsite manufacturers will often be able to highlight any potential programme slippage early in the project and propose action. Setting up a factory assembly approach to manufacturing requires quantities to achieve economy; key to any offsite solution is standardisation and being able to produce to volume. So, building lots of different versions of the same thing is not practical and will only overcomplicate what should be a simple process. Pressing ahead As well as bespoke products, most solutions are likely to be coupled with ‘DNA’ products, which brings me back to the benefits of press fittings and the suitability of this technology to modular construction. Unlike with the slower, traditional brazing method, the time taken for each pressed joint is consistent. This predictability makes it easier for project managers to plan more effectively, with a subsequent cost-per-day reduction achievable for the main contractor. Being flame-free, the risk from fire is eliminated and there is no need to go through the time- consuming process of applying for hot works permits. It is also friendlier to the environment as no hazardous gas bottles, or jointing materials such as solder, are required, the joint being completed with an electro- mechanical press tool and jaws set. New skillset Finally, while there is still a lot being said about skill shortages in the wider construction industry, the ease of use of press fittings has brought a new set of skills that are in tune with the requirements of offsite construction packaged plant. Implemented properly they ensure increased productivity and whether delivered on-site, as per pre-pandemic, or online through webinars, they can be quickly learned. Having completed the brief period of training, the heating engineer or installer has the necessary skills from day one. More information can be at www.conexbanninger.com