Modular Building Techniques and the Dounreay Modular Laboratory

Modular construction is a concept that is growing in importance and usefulness in today’s world. The ability to quickly construct and/or modify and transport modular buildings makes modular construction the ideal choice for a wide variety of purposes. Additionally, their structural and safety advantages such as being pre-installed with partitions, fume cupboards, windows and office areas, make them a better alternative to conventionally-built structures.

The Dounreay radioactive analysis laboratory is an excellent example of the strengths of modular construction. Comprised of 35 modules, the Dounreay facility located in the U.K. was constructed by placing and connecting the modular components via cranes. The durable facility will remain in place for 25 years, after which it will be relocated.

In addition, modular construction includes robust safety provisions.  The Dounreay facility has one-hour fire containment in any given module, which is a first in the modular construction industry. In addition, each module includes comprehensive environmental safety systems, including HEPA filtering and fume extraction stacks. The facility was also built in full compliance of the nuclear industry’s regulations for ionizing radiation.  Finally, due to the location of the facility, the modular components have been designed to withstand the environmental effects of being exposed to inclement weather and salt water.

This facility also highlights the primary advantages of modular construction; flexibility, ease of installation, durability and quality. As the modules are produced off-site, the majority of the construction process can occur before shipping the modules to their final destination. This is a tremendous advantage when considering the construction of facilities at remote or difficult to access areas.  Additionally, the ability to relocate a modular facility provides a great deal of flexibility for the facility owner.

Modular construction provides numerous advantages over traditional buildings including speed, flexibility and re-use. The Dounreay laboratory shows that modular buildings can provide flexibility and ease of installation without sacrificing durability and quality.