For projects that implement an offsite modular construction strategy, the specification, design and installation of plumbing and heating systems must be considered carefully. Here Paul Whittall, Business Development Manager for MMC at Uponor explains how to ensure a high quality and reliable system is in place.
Offsite modular construction is already playing a key role in shaping the industry's future, but in many ways, it requires a specific approach to the design and material choices. This is especially true for heating and plumbing systems.
While it might sound simple, choosing the right products must be the starting point, as it can make a real difference to the speed, simplicity, safety and even cost of construction. Multi-layer composite (MLC) pipe, which combines the benefits of a metal and plastic pipe, with a stable aluminium core and flexible polyethylene outer case, is ideal for offsite construction for a number of reasons.
MLC pipe in general, is lighter than traditional metal pipe, offers longer pipe runs and requires fewer joints and fittings, as it can be bent rather than cut to achieve changes in direction. It also typically does not require specialist trades for installation and eliminates the need for hot works, ensuring a lower risk installation and helping to improve health and safety. However, looking carefully at the features of the specific product is important – as with any specification choice – the devil is in the detail and not all MLC pipes will perform in the same way.
For example, our Uponor Uni Pipe PLUS has up to a 40% narrower bending radius compared to conventional multilayer composite pipes. This means it can offer greater versatility and can reduce the number of fittings required by up to 15% due to improved bendability.
The choice of product is not the only consideration when selecting a system. The support offered by the supplier can also make a significant difference and contractors should look for partners that offer more than simply supplying the specified product alongside necessary technical details. Leading manufacturers will take time to fully understand the requirements of the project so they can provide a more comprehensive and consultative service. As an example, at Uponor, we have been working on offsite construction projects for more than 10 years and as a result know how important it is to have dedicated and specialist account managers who work with the client throughout the project. We also have a team of specially trained engineers who can collaborate with customers on product selection and undertake feasibility analysis to optimise system performance and potential; maximising efficiency and reducing costs.
However, to realise the full the benefits of a partnership-based approach, it is important to bring the system manufacturers onto the project as early in the process as possible. This will allow design recommendations to be implemented more easily and cost effectively with less wasted time.
In addition, it is always recommended that those installing the system are familiar with the products and informed about the correct installation process. This can help to improve productivity and efficiency as well as prevent installation errors that could present issues at the commissioning stage. To support customers with this, Uponor offers free product training at the customer's site, with the option for further refresher courses. This is particularly valuable if, like with our Uni Pipe PLUS MLC pipe and S-Press Plus connections, the products are simple enough to be installed by non-specialists.
Furthermore, ongoing support and guidance throughout the project is just as important, especially if the scheme is complex or large in scale. Partnering with manufacturers and suppliers in the long-term can have tangible benefits for the project. A good illustration of this is the on-going installation quality reviews that we offer for customers. This builds on the input given at the training sessions and helps to ensure consistency, greater precision and improved quality control.
An example of how our approach has worked in practice is the Ten Degrees development, which is currently the largest modular apartment building in the world. Completed in 2021, the build-to-rent development consists of two towers of 38 and 44 storeys and a total of 1,500 modules. Following the specification of the Uponor multi-layer pipe system, we developed a three-year partnership with the manufacturer of the modules. We supplied over 120,000 metres of MLC pipework and 2,250 manifolds used to supply the hot and cold water to each apartment. Our team also provided full support throughout the project including bespoke training, translated into different languages for all the production employees, as well as advice and checks on installation processes. The manufacture of the modules was completed in just 24 weeks and with a 100% reliability rate from the Uponor products.
Offsite construction has the potential to help solve many of the issues facing the industry, but to maximise the benefits of this approach requires a close working relationship between the contractor and leading product manufacturers that can offer the required support.
To find out more about Uponor products and how we can support a project from concept to completion visit: www.uponor.com/en-gb.
