From the desk of Paul Smith, Business Development Manager, Arch-I
As the construction industry evolves, sustainable practices and carbon reduction have become paramount, especially in Ireland, where climate commitments are steering all sectors toward net-zero emissions. Arch-I Modular Solutions, using Light Gauge Steel (LGS), for volumetric and panelised systems within Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), is emerging as a promising solution to this challenge.
LGS in Volumetric and Panelised MMC Systems
LGS involves the use of cold-formed steel sections that are lightweight, durable, and flexible in design. When applied in MMC systems, LGS components are prefabricated off-site, either as volumetric modules or as panelised systems, and transported for quick assembly on-site. This method not only reduces waste but also minimizes construction timelines, contributing significantly to environmental and economic benefits.
Carbon Reduction Potential
LGS offers considerable advantages in terms of reducing the carbon footprint across the life cycle of a building:
- Embodied Carbon: The use of recycled steel significantly lowers embodied carbon compared to virgin materials. Steel is also endlessly recyclable without loss of quality, making it a sustainable choice for the circular economy.
- Operational Carbon: Prefabrication in controlled environments improves precision and reduces energy consumption during production. Furthermore, LGS systems enhance the thermal efficiency of buildings through precise insulation integration, reducing long-term energy use.
- Construction Process Carbon: Off-site manufacturing minimizes waste and emissions associated with transportation, site preparation, and construction activities.
In my opinion, MMC using LGS can reduce construction-related emissions by up to 25% compared to traditional methods. This aligns with Ireland’s climate action goals, which emphasize decarbonization across industries.
Life Cycle Carbon Analysis
The life cycle of an LGS-based MMC building includes several stages:
- Material Extraction and Production: Leveraging recycled steel significantly reduces emissions.
- Manufacturing and Prefabrication: Controlled processes ensure resource efficiency.
- Construction and Assembly: Streamlined on-site operations lower energy use and emissions.
- Operation and Maintenance: Improved building performance reduces operational carbon.
- End-of-Life: LGS can be fully recycled, closing the loop on material usage.
Collaboration for Greater Impact
While LGS and MMC systems already offer significant advantages, the industry has an opportunity to achieve even greater carbon reductions through collaboration. By fostering partnerships among companies in Ireland and beyond, we can:
- Share innovations in LGS design and fabrication.
- Standardize processes to improve efficiency and scalability.
- Collaborate on research to enhance thermal and structural performance.
- Develop joint strategies to address regulatory challenges and promote adoption.
A united effort will not only accelerate advancements but also position Ireland as a leader in sustainable construction. Getting involved with different organisations and partnerships with firms pioneering LGS-based MMC solutions can drive this collective progress.
Looking Ahead
To truly transform the construction sector, we need a mindset shift from competition to collaboration. By opening up to other companies in the same field and sharing best practices, we can refine MMC with LGS and maximize its carbon-reduction potential. Together, we can ensure that Ireland’s built environment aligns with its climate commitments, creating a legacy of sustainable development for future generations. Feel free to contact me and Arch-I Modular Solutions to discuss any projects you may have here.
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