As trailblazers in modular technology, VOLUMETRIC™ has used in-house skills and an innovative R&D approach to create a range of high-performance bathroom, ensuite and MEP pods.
Exploiting the innovative technology behind the company's multi-award winning MODULHAUS™ range of interim homes – for the first time, the MEP, bathroom and ensuite pods are commercially available for direct installation on-site. Manufactured to meet various design requirements and configurations, the pods offer numerous benefits for large residential and hotel developments. Efficient, sustainable and quick to install, they are ideal for projects where build speeds and seamless onsite co-ordination are paramount.
"Providing a unitised fast-track solution, says Trevor Richards Operations Director for VOLUMETRIC™. "Our services include design, specification, procurement and manufacturing to drastically reduce build programmes. Delivering maximum efficiency and achieving a risk-free product, we produce all pods in our advanced offsite facility."
Ergonomically Designed
VOLUMETRIC™ bathroom and ensuite pods offer outstanding premanufactured value (PMV) and can reduce standard installation times by up to 90%. Ergonomically designed for maximum spatial efficiency, the pods are customisable to meet project requirements. All plumbing runs are rigorously tested before despatch, minimising the chance of leaks or remedial works following on-site commissioning and reducing the expense and time spent on snagging activity.
The bathroom and ensuite pods are simply 'plugged' into the MEP infrastructure or optionally, can be connected to the VOLUMETRIC™ MEP pods. Environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, bathroom pods use controlled flow showers and dual-flush cisterns to mitigate water waste. VOLUMETRIC™ offers a range of baths, showers, toilets, sinks, taps, valves, vanity units, mirrors and lighting options for a truly bespoke internal finish.
The VOLUMETRIC™ team has already achieved its first successful installation of bathroom and ensuite pods. In March 2023, they delivered the first of multiple loads to a residential development called Kew Bridge Rise in Brentford, where over 400 new homes are being developed.
The bathroom pods provided an ideal solution for the client, as offsite technology and modern methods of construction were integral to the project brief. VOLUMETRIC™ has recently released a new case study about the Kew Bridge Rise project, available to download from their website. The study looks at the design, development and delivery as well as the benefits of offsite manufacturing.
Reducing the Complexity of MEP Service Co-ordination
MEP pods are an evolution in prefabricated utility cupboards. Removing traditional MEP activity from the development path means less labour onsite and a more efficient installation. All electrical circuits and plumbing runs are thoroughly tested and certified before despatch to provide total quality assurance. Resolving any issues in the factory as part of the testing protocols, eliminates potential risks onsite.
The MEP pods have an outstanding PMV of up to 94% and can be installed quickly with only a two-man team. Responding instantly to water, heating and digital communication requirements, MEP pods incorporate pre-wired junction boxes, wiring looms and draw cables for electrical connections. A complete integrated solution, the pods use a slimline steel frame for a lightweight, yet robust structure built from highly recyclable materials.
Maximising Supply Chain Efficiency
Adopting design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA) principles throughout, VOLUMETRIC™ uses advanced digital technology, 3D printing, and augmented and virtual reality prototyping to ensure accuracy and high-performance outputs. Using DfMA protocols, design and supply chain teams identified ways to optimise material use, reducing waste while providing outstanding performance and a robust structure. A one team approach also allows for the traceability of materials, giving total assurance at a component level.
Trevor Richards explains: "We adopt a partnership approach, working collaboratively with our trusted suppliers. This allows us to identify and eliminate obstacles before offsite manufacture and assembly. It has been great to work with the suppliers to see how we can make the pods even more efficient and sustainable. This includes the provision of light steel frame structural kits from our supplier's dedicated production area." Following the launch, VOLUMETRIC™ are working on further expanding their offering. A slim base version of the bathroom pod is currently in development, alongside a more compact version of the MEP range. A combined MEP and bathroom pod is also available.
"There has been a lot of research and development put into this initiative." adds Trevor "Maximising synergies with our volumetric modules, and we look forward to getting the new pods off the production line in the next few months."
For more information or to download technical information visit: www.volumetric.co.uk
Images:
01. All Pods are precision engineered in a 65,000ft2 state-of-the-art manufacturing facility
02-03. A range of bathroom and ensuite pods with a choice of finishes and fittings
04. The MEP Pods provide a unitised solution
for heating, ventilation, water
management, communications and
electrical services
