The term “MMC” may be heard more and more regularly these days, but what does it mean? Simply described, modern methods of construction centers around off-site construction practices, some of which may be innovative, allowing for mass production in a factory setting.
As a component manufacturer, you’re probably already producing your products as part of the MMC framework. The following framework was produced by a UK government cross-industry working group developing outputs assisting with the further uptake of MMC in residential developments.
The definition framework identifies the following 7 MMC categories:
Category 1 – Pre-Manufacturing – 3D primary structural systems
Category 2 – Pre-Manufacturing – 2D primary structural systems
Category 3 – Pre-Manufacturing – Non-systemized structural components
Category 4 – Pre-Manufacturing – Additive manufacturing
Category 5 – Pre-Manufacturing – Non-structural assemblies and sub-assemblies
Category 6 – Traditional building product-led site labor reduction/productivity improvements
Category 7 – Site process-led labor reduction/productivity improvements.
Typically, volumetric modular construction would sit in category 1, while panelized components such as wall, floor, and roof panels would sit in category 2.
So what are the benefits to the component manufacturer and their clients? Firstly, let’s look at why component manufacturers would want to push forward with this approach. For ease of reference, I’ve bullet-pointed the following section.
Some benefits of MMC applicable for the component manufacturer:
- The ability to produce standardized house types, construction assemblies, and design for manufacturing parameters.
- The ability to procure sustainable products such as PEFC and FSC timbers in line with government and stakeholder targets.
- The implementation of quality management such as ISO 9001 reducing defects, back charges, and claims.
- Semi or full automation in part or all of the manufacturing processes.
- Cost control by designing for manufacturing efficiencies and reducing waste.
- The ability to bid in governmental projects when MMC adoption is a prerequisite.
Some client benefits of off-site timber frame construction compared to traditional site-framed construction are:
- Reduced noise pollution during site assembly.
- Fewer material deliveries and associated road miles – reduction in CO2 emissions.
- Confidence that sustainable products have been used in the construction assemblies.
- Manufacturing in a quality-controlled factory environment – fewer defects.
- Increased speed of build allowing for reduced site labor hours.
- Reduction in site waste.
- Alleviation of skills shortage.
- Reduction in overall costs.
Also, the adoption of MMC in a government housing strategy for future residential developments leaves component manufacturers and their clients in a strong position going forward.
Furthermore, modern methods of construction will assist in the drive to net-zero carbon by 2050, which will require high-performing and quality homes that are sustainably sourced. With that target, it should be expected that the demand for pre-fabricated timber constructed homes will increase in the coming years.
By promoting the extensive benefits of MMC, component manufacturers can all benefit from its adoption as a building strategy for the long term.
With 18 years in the timber engineering industry, working in the UK, Europe, and North America, Greg Watson currently lives in Scotland and is the Technical Manager at one of the UK’s leading timber frame house manufacturers. He has a passion for large and complex timber structures and seeks to promote timber as a sustainable building material. linkedin.com/in/gregwatson87