floors took longer cycle times as they were in the
initial learning curve of module installation.
Design Buildability, Constructability and
Manpower Saving & Productivity
The adoption of PPVC System in this project
has achieved marked improvement in design
buildability, constructability and manpower saving
and productivity. With reference to Singapore
BCA’s Code of Practice on Buildability, the project
achieved a significant eight-point improvement
above the mandated design Buildability
(B-Score) and 10 points above the mandated
Constructability (C-Score). The project also
achieved more than 40% in productivity saving on
the manpower on site.
The productivity, site safety and quality of
works have vastly improved and contributed to
the completion of the project significantly ahead
of schedule.
Challenges Faced and Future of
Volumetric Construction in Singapore
There were many challenges faced during the
implementation of the project and one of the main
challenges was the mindsets of stakeholders
involved in such PPVC modularisation projects.
Unlike conventional projects, where architectural
finishing decisions could be decided later, for this
project, the early involvement and decision making
of all stakeholders concerning elements such as
finishes, M&E services and carpentry works etc.
was the key to success of the PPVC project. Works
could be carried out in the factory much earlier,
similar to a manufacturing process, and brought
to site for assembly.
During the factory fabrication process,
much attention had to be paid. For example
conducting a pre -match trial, where the
cast modules are assembled on the floor
as per the tower footprint to ensure that the
overall alignment of the building, structural
verticality, levelness and accuracy of structural
connections are in order. This is so that PPVC
modules, when sent to the site, would fit exactly
as per intended design and the robustness
and structural integrity of the building were not
compromised in any way.
In Singapore where the population density is
critical, there is a driven need to reduce reliance
on foreign labour. In order to achieve this objective
without compromising on quality and speed of
construction, the implementation of off-site PPVC
modulisations for construction projects, which
reduces the environmental impact and enhances
workers’ safety, proves to be a viable solution.
There is no doubt that in the near future, most
projects would be constructed using this method
and it would be a new norm in the building and
construction industry.
Acknowledgement
The authors gratefully acknowledge the
involvement and support of all the project team
members who have contributed in one way or
another to the successful completion of the
project.
REFERENCE
Code of Practice on Buildability 2015 Edition–
BCA Publication
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) –
BCA Publication
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