Micro-module assembly and construction methods

Micro-module construction involves prefabricating small, transportable units off-site, which are then assembled on-site to form complete structures or systems, offering efficiency, safety, and scalability.Overview of Micro-Module ConstructionMicro-module construction is a subset of modular construction where small-scale modules are fabricated off-site under controlled conditions and then transported to the installation site for assembly. This approach is widely used in residential buildings, industrial plants, and small modular reactors (SMRs) due to its efficiency, reduced on-site labor, and faster construction timelines .Key MethodsVolumetric Modular Construction (VMC)Entire three-dimensional units, including walls, floors, ceilings, and sometimes equipment, are prefabricated in a factory.Modules are transported to the site and assembled to form the complete structure.Common in hotels, student housing, and compact urban buildings .Divided Module ConstructionModules are split between floor and ceiling to reduce height, making transport easier and assembly safer.Components such as piping, electrical systems, and instrumentation are integrated into each module.Modules are joined on-site using specialized connection methods to reduce assembly time and steel usage .Panelized ConstructionOnly walls, floors, or roof panels are prefabricated and transported.Panels are assembled on-site to form the building envelope.Offers flexibility in design and easier transport for constrained sites .Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Micro-ModulesSMRs use modular construction principles to fabricate reactor components off-site.Modules can be factory-built and shipped to the site, allowing scalable deployment and reduced construction risk.Microreactors (