P R E - F A B R I C AT E D C O N S T R U C T I O N

BUILDING MATERIALS
&
CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY - V

Pre-Fabricated Construction

Presentation by: Prof. Rikta Desai

Faculty team:
Prof. Vishal Mashruwala
Prof. Priyank Parekh

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Prefabricated Construction

Prefabrication, or “Prefab” for short, is a broad category that

refers to a construction process where some building elements
are built off-site in a controlled, factory-like environment and
when completed, shipped to a construction site for installation
on that site.

It is an umbrella term used to describe any type of construction

which is done in a factory, away from the site of construction.

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.
Terms such as “off-site construction,” “prefabrication,” and
“modular construction” are used interchangeably.
These terms cover a range of different approaches and systems,
from single elements that are clipped together using standard
connections and interfaces to 3-D volumetric units with full
fixtures.

The practice of prefabricating building elements was first adopted in the United
States in the past century. Post World War II, there a need for affordable quality
housing which led to a boost in "kit-of-parts buildings". Nowadays, innovative digital
tools are making prefabrication much easier.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Are prefab buildings and modular buildings exactly the same?

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In broad terms, modular construction involves producing

standardized components of a structure in an off-site factory,
then assembling them on-site.
All modular buildings are prefabricated buildings but all
prefabricated buildings may or may not be modular structures.
Modular structure construction is just one among the many
types of prefab construction

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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There are many subcategories of construction grouped

together under the “Prefab” banner. Each refers to varying
degrees of prefabricating or assembling building components
at off-site locations, while site-work to accept those
components is simultaneous underway.

Two of the most common subcategories of prefabrication

are panelization (Non-volumetric) and modularization
(Volumetric)

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Panelized construction
(Non-Volumetric Construction)
• Panelized is a construction method where the structural
components of a building, such as walls, roofs and floor
systems are constructed offsite in a factory and delivered to
the job site to be incorporated into the building, and finished
conventionally on-site.
• Generally the panels are structural, and have very little
infrastructure or other components built into them.
• The panels are generally “bare” meaning that they will include
the structural members pre-built so that a wall or floor can
come off a truck and be placed into the building.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Panelized construction
(Non-Volumetric Construction)
• Once in place, these Panels need to be connected or fastened
to other structural components in the field, and generally
finished in a conventional way.
• Wall finishes, plumbing fixtures, electric and other
infrastructure are usually not pre-installed, and need to be
installed, connected and finished in the field.
• Panelized buildings therefore require a considerable amount
of on-site work, but less work than if it were all stick-built in
the field. This system works best for buildings that require
wide open spaces and high ceilings

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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https://mk0h360connecth0vd5d.kinstacdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/modular.panel_.png

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https://www.constructionexec.com/assets/site_18/images/article/071619033102.jpg?width=1280

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https://ww2.frost.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/Prefabricated-min.jpg

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Modularized construction
(Volumetric Construction)
• Modularization is a construction method where an entire unit of
a building is constructed off-site, rather than smaller, structural
components as with panelization.
• Modular buildings are very versatile and can be designed
and built to serve virtually any function. They are particularly
well suited, though, for buildings such as hotels, apartments,
student housing, and any other types that typically consist of
many repetitive units serving similar functions.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Modularized construction
(Volumetric Construction)
• Modular units require the least amount of on-site construction
time, as all plumbing, electrical, and even design finishes have
typically already been installed in the facility. This leaves only the
task of assembling the modular units together to form a
completed building.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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https://prod-c2i.s3.amazonaws.com/articles/149750873759422b8151def.jpg

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https://miro.medium.com/max/764/1*gGOPdGwfSOcvk3yEKqipKg.png

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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https://cdn.i-scmp.com/sites/default/files/styles/768x768/public/d8/images/methode/2019/07/15/9b371cd4-a164-11e9-
9a3c-98259c87fba2_image_hires_112432.jpg?itok=HLTcfBg4&v=1563161095

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Both of these types of construction can be achieved in timber, steel

and concrete, and can also be mixed within the same scheme

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Advantages of Prefabricated Construction System

Prefabricated buildings provide certain advantages compared to
traditional on-site construction, including:

• Greater control over weather, quality, and supervision.

• Reduced environmental impact due to reduced waste, air,
water, and noise pollution.
• Streamlined project schedules through fabricating building
components while the construction site is being prepared.
• Fewer logistical challenges associated with organizing crews
and deliveries.
• More convenient storage leading to minimal instances of lost
or misplaced materials.
• Increased safety through limited exposure to unsafe weather
and working conditions.
B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Advantages of Prefabricated Construction System

Prefabrication seeks to effect significant efficiencies in the

construction process that should also result in a significant
cost savings. A shorter project schedule, itself, further
enhances cost savings. The shorter the construction period,
the less construction period carrying costs, such as real estate
taxes, insurance, interest and other construction period
carrying costs typically referred to as “soft costs”, and the
sooner the building can start generating revenue.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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http://www.modular.org/HtmlPage.aspx?name=why_modular

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Popular methods of prefabricated construction:

Timber Framing systems

This remains an increasingly popular prefabrication construction
method for timber homes because of its convenience. A timber
framing panel is first built in the factory, and then transported to
the location of the onsite construction. The advantage of using
the timber framing method is that it aids you with the quick
erection of prefabricated buildings.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Prefab timber frame element (closed panel) manufacturing

https://i.ytimg.com/vi/pDPVNkFeiQM/maxresdefault.jpg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDPVNkFeiQM

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Popular methods of prefabricated construction:

Concrete Systems
For the sake of increased durability and improved aesthetics, you
must consider the infusion of precast concrete panels to your
prefabricated building. Cast in the factory, these concrete
components add solidity to your structure as concrete is heavier
than most materials commonly used for construction.
Furthermore, you can save money if you decide to opt for
concrete systems.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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https://bimformation.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Flat-Packed-thegem-blog-default-large.png

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Popular methods of prefabricated construction:

Steel Framing systems

Perhaps the most widely utilized commercial and residential
construction material, steel remains the go-to material for most
modular building companies that intend to achieve durability
and strength in the structures they construct. Steel framing is
essential for the creation of steel panels, which can then be
used for the construction of solid buildings.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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https://5.imimg.com/data5/EH/UT/MY-3027136/pre-fabrication-building-500x500.jpg

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Popular methods of prefabricated construction:

Modular Systems
How does a modular building company achieve the perfect
creation of a factory-constructed module? By implementing all
of the prefabrication methods, of course! All the necessary
components are first brought to the construction site, where
they are slowly connected and securely laid out, and deeply
rooted in the foundation that has been prepared to support the
structure. And, the result is a brand, new modular building.
to us.

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Permanent Modular Construction

https://www.modular.org/images/Guerdo_136601513E.jpg

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Relocatable Buildings

https://www.modular.org/assets/images/NRB_Relocatable.jpg

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Permanent V/S Relocatable

• Permanent Modular Construction modules can be integrated into site built
projects or stand alone as a turn-key solution and can be delivered with MEP,
fixtures and interior finishes in less time -- with less waste, and higher quality
control compared to projects utilizing only site-built construction.
• A Relocatable Building (RB) is a partially or completely assembled building that
complies with applicable codes or state regulations and is constructed in a building
manufacturing facility using a modular construction process. Relocatable buildings
are designed to be reused or repurposed multiple times and transported to
different building sites. They are utilized for schools, construction site offices,
medical clinics, sales centers, and in any application where a relocatable building
can meet a temporary space need. These buildings offer fast delivery, ease of
relocation, low-cost reconfiguration, accelerated depreciation schedules and
enormous flexibility

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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Some of the main uses of prefabrication are listed below:

•Prefabricated houses
•Prefabricated stores

•Prefabricated apartment blocks

•Modular units and rooms

•Prefabricated shelters

•Prefabricated military barracks/facilities

B. Arch. – III, Sem. - V B . M . C . T. - V AAERT & the SSB Ltd. Faculty of Architecture, SCET
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“Manufacturing building components off-site provides for more

controlled conditions and allows for improved quality and precision in
the fabrication of the component.” - National Institute of Standards and
Technology and the National Research Council

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• https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/archive/types-of-prefabricated-systems-28-06-2001/
• https://northgateindustries.com/fact-vs-myths-misconceptions-surrounding-modular-
construction-2/
• https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/capital-projects-and-infrastructure/our-
insights/modular-construction-from-projects-to-products
• http://www.modular.org/HtmlPage.aspx?name=why_modular

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modular_building

• https://www.deluxemodular.com/learning-center/modular-vs-prefab

• https://northgateindustries.com/prefab-vs-modular-construction-what-is-the-difference/

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-8nktIYWohU

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHOC0ZaZErE

• https://nitterhouseconcrete.com/what-is-precast-concrete/
• http://www.cfm-schiller.de/en/clamping-technology/products/foundations/prefabricated-foundations/

• https://civildigital.com/prefabricated-structures-prefabrication-concept-components-advantages-ppt/

• https://www.oem.knaufinsulation.com/products?page=2

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Thank You!!

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