Explore the new Korean method of prefabricated construction that saves time and money while ensuring sustainability and design flexibility.
The construction industry is undergoing a revolution with the development of innovative systems that promise to transform the way we design buildings. One of the most promising methods comes from Korea, where researchers have perfected the use of prefabricated elements that allow large, complex structures to be assembled with unprecedented efficiency and sustainability.
Advantages of Prefabricated Construction
Construction using prefabricated elements offers multiple benefits compared to traditional methods:
Time Reduction: Parallel manufacturing of components significantly reduces the total time required to complete a project.
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Reduced Costs: Although the initial investment may be greater, the savings in construction time and less waste generation largely compensate, resulting in a lower total cost.
Energy Efficiency: Prefabricated materials tend to be more energy efficient, which contributes to the sustainability of projects.
Design Flexibility: Prefabricated elements easily adapt to a variety of architectural designs, offering architects and designers greater creative freedom.
Innovation from Korea: Beyond Small Structures
The Korea Institute of Civil and Construction Engineering Technology (KICT) has been at the forefront of research and development of these systems. Under the direction of Lim, Seok-Ho and Chung, Joon-Soo, the new method focuses on using “U”-shaped structures that are assembled with modules that imitate Lego blocks, eliminating the need for concrete or steel.
Construction Process
Manufacturing: Between 70% and 80% of the construction process is carried out in the factory.
Transport and Assembly: The modules are transported to the construction site, where they are lifted and placed onto the main structure using cranes.
Finishing: Elements such as roofs, stairs and walkways are added that connect the different floors and areas.
Construction Benefits and Reuse Potential
Using this system can reduce construction times and costs by 30%, in addition to reducing occupational risks. Another important advantage is the possibility of recycling or reusing the modules, which represents a considerable benefit for the environment.
Applications and Future Projects
Although initially designed to speed up processes in emergency situations or catastrophes, the method is being applied to more ambitious projects. A prominent example is the Gayang Complex, a six-story building built in the Gangseo neighborhood of Seoul in 2017.
This type of innovation not only promises faster and more economical buildings, but also points to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future. Prefabricated construction, inspired by advances like those made in Korea, is paving the way for a new era in architecture and civil engineering, where efficiency and sustainability go hand in hand.
Source: www.kict.re.kr