Sun Lanxin_Reader Response_Final Draft

 Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) is an innovative construction method in which fully prefabricated modules are manufactured off-site in controlled environments and assembled on-site (Building and Construction Authority, 2024). Modules are pre-fitted with electrical, plumbing, and interior finishes, minimising on-site labour and disruptions. The method supports diverse applications, including residential, commercial, and institutional buildings, while integrating seamlessly with traditional construction techniques. According to the study by Tambichik et al. (2022), compared to the traditional Industrialized Building System method, PPVC was able to reduce the construction period by about 35%. Other benefits of PPVC include superior quality, cost-effectiveness, and improved safety by reducing hazards in factory environments. Considering environmental aspects, reducing material usage, saving energy, deducing air and sound pollution are also part of PPVC’s privileges (Aghasizadeh et al., 2022). However, challenges such as high initial investment, transportation logistics, and regulatory compliance must be addressed (Liu et al., 2023). 

Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) revolutionises modern construction with its efficiency, sustainability and safety, offering a streamlined solution to traditional construction challenges.

PPVC significantly enhances construction efficiency by reducing project timelines. One of the examples using PPVC in Singapore is the clement canopy tower, the project ended up with saving construction time up to 30% (BCA, 2019). In the study done by Tambichik et al. (2022), they compared three projects constructed by PPVC and Industrialized Building System (IBS) respectively, based on the similar numbers of units constructed. The results showed that the project applied PPVC was able to complete 35 classrooms in 56 days whereas the other two applied IBS completed in 91 and 86 days respectively, showing that the construction period of PPVC is 34.9% shorter than IBS. The main reason of such efficiency is that off-site module manufacturing eliminates weather delays and site constraints. Since the modules arrive pre-fitted with essential components, on-site assembly is quick and labour efficient. The reduction in construction time not only lowers labour costs but also allows developers to complete projects faster, benefiting both the industry and end users.

PPVC aligns with global sustainability initiatives and promotes environmentally responsible building practices. Analysis done by Hong et al. (2015) to investigate the life-cycle energy use of PPVC construction, found that the recycling process could achieve 16%–24% energy reduction. They also found out that “apart from reusability, energy savings are also obtained from waste reduction and high-quality control, saving 4%–14% of the total life-cycle energy consumption”. PPVC reduces waste through precise material usage and controlled fabrication in factory settings. Traditional construction often results in excess material waste due to inaccurate on-site measurements and inefficient resource management. Measured data of a case project in China studied by Jiang et al. (2019) showed that prefabrication can save 60% of steel, 56% of concrete, and 77% of formwork on site. In contrast, PPVC optimizes material use, allowing for recycling and minimizing construction debris. 

PPVC enhances workplace safety by shifting construction activities to controlled factory environments. The Building and Construction Authority (2024) reports that PPVC significantly reduces on-site accidents by minimizing hazardous activities such as scaffolding work and heavy machinery operations. Traditional construction exposes workers to various risks, including falls, equipment-related injuries, and exposure to hazardous materials. With PPVC, most construction processes occur in a factory setting, where standardized safety measures reduce the likelihood of workplace injuries. Improved safety conditions enhance worker well-being and contribute to overall project efficiency by reducing accident-related delays.

Despite its advantages, PPVC presents challenges in high initial investment. In the survey by Liu et al. (2023), the most significant challenge voted by the interviewees is Volatile Economic and Social Conditions. PPVC projects demand substantial upfront investments in module design and production, making it difficult to secure funding and maintain cash flow, especially during economic uncertainty. This financial burden makes PPVC projects more susceptible to risks compared to traditional construction methods. Furthermore, the successful assembly and installation of prefabricated modules depend heavily on a skilled workforce.

PPVC revolutionizes the construction industry by improving efficiency, promoting sustainability, and enhancing worker safety. Its ability to reduce construction time, minimize waste, and create safer work environments makes it a promising alternative to traditional construction methods. However, the challenge of economic investment must be addressed to maximize its potential. As the industry evolves, advancements in transportation infrastructure and regulatory frameworks will be crucial for the widespread adoption of PPVC.

 

 

 

References:

Aghasizadeh, S., Tabadkani, A., Hajirasouli, A., & Banihashemi, S. (2022). Environmental and economic performance of prefabricated construction: A review. Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 97, 106897-. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eiar.2022.106897

Building and Construction Authority. (2019). Case Study - The Clement Canopy. https://www1.bca.gov.sg/buildsg/productivity/design-for-manufacturing-and-assembly-dfma/prefabricated-prefinished-volumetric-construction-ppvc/prefabricated-prefinished-volumetric-construction-case-study-the-clement-canopy

Building and Construction Authority. (2024). Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC). https://www1.bca.gov.sg/buildsg/productivity/design-for-manufacturing-and-assembly-dfma/prefabricated-prefinished-volumetric-construction-ppvc/

Hong, J., Shen, G. Q., Mao, C., Li, Z., & Li, K. (2016). Life-cycle energy analysis of prefabricated building components: an input–output-based hybrid model. Journal of cleaner production, 112, 2198-2207. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0959652615014146#sec1

Jiang, Y., Zhao, D., Wang, D., & Xing, Y. (2019). Sustainable performance of buildings through modular prefabrication in the construction phase: A comparative study. Sustainability, 11(20), 5658. https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/11/20/5658

Liu, Z., Hwang, B.-G., & Lim, J. M. (2023). Prefabricated and Prefinished Volumetric Construction: Assessing Implementation Status, Perceived Benefits, and Critical Risk Factors in the Singapore Built Environment Sector. Journal of Management in Engineering, 39(6). https://doi.org/10.1061/JMENEA.MEENG-5455

Tambichik, M. A., Sherliza, Z. S., & Abdullah, N. A. (2022). Comparative Study between Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC) and IBS 2D: A Case Study of School Extension Project in Malaysia. IOP Conference Series. Earth and Environmental Science, 1022(1), 12016-. https://doi.org/10.1088/1755-1315/1022/1/012016

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Self-introduction and communication goals (letter)

Subject: Self-Introduction and Communication Goals Dear Prof. Blackstone, I hope this email finds you well. My name is Sun Lanxin and I am currently pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. My interest in the field stems from a passion for designing sustainable infrastructure that positively benefits communities. My communication strengths include active listening and empathy. These skills have allowed me to effectively understand the perspectives of others and build strong relationships in both group projects and personal interactions. However, I recognize that I struggle with nervousness during public speaking and group discussions. While I can express myself clearly when I have prepared in advance, I find it challenging to speak confidently when I am asked to improvise or respond immediately. In addition, because English is not my first language, I sometimes hesitate to choose the right words, which adds to my nervousness. Through this module, I aim to overcome these weak...
Read more

The importance of communication skills for engineers (quote explanation)

Image
  This quote emphasizes the importance of communication as a fundamental skill that graduates should ace for their career lives. It suggests that employers highly value the ability to communicate effectively, as it directly impacts one's ability to secure employment and ensure professional performance. From a broader perspective, the statement underscores the universal applicability of communication skills. It suggests that regardless of the industry or role, effective communication serves as the foundation for teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. However, it is worth questioning whether all professions place equal emphasis on communication or whether some prioritize technical expertise or specialized skills more. Additionally, the quote prompts reflection on the responsibility of educational institutions to prepare graduates with strong communication skills. In today’s rapidly changing work environment, the definition of communication has expanded to include digital and cros...
Read more

Summary + thesis + supports #2

  Summary: Prefabricated Prefinished Volumetric Construction (PPVC)  is an innovative construction method in which fully prefabricated modules are manufactured off-site in controlled environments and assembled on-site (Building and Construction Authority, 2024). Modules are pre-fitted with electrical, plumbing, and interior finishes, minimising on-site labour and disruptions. The method supports diverse applications, including residential, commercial, and institutional buildings, while integrating seamlessly with traditional construction techniques. According to the study by Tambichik et al. (2022), compared to the traditional Industrialized Building System method, PPVC was able to reduce the construction period by about 35%. Other benefits of PPVC include superior quality, cost-effectiveness, and improved safety by reducing hazards in factory environments. However, challenges such as high initial investment, transportation logistics, and reg...
Read more