PRECAST CONCRETE PRODUCTS

There are several reasons why precast concrete is particularly suitable for an intensive building components. Precast construction is a I building process ideally suited for the future. Materials are relatively inexpensive and the method of construction, involving factory manufacture of components and rapid site erection, lends itself to innovation in design and construction.

Advanced technology, including robotics and the use of computer aided manufacture, will lead to more efficient erection procedures. The potential for significant reductions in building cost is apparent. The high technology or low labor content aspect make it suitable for any conditions and technological strengths, without necessarily losing the flexibility of construction form that has resulted from mass produced "system building" developed in countries that are technological less advanced.

The advantages of using precast concrete products as building components:

Quality control:

High precision machinery and mould impose a schedule and a discipline. Higher tolerances, more accurate measurements, with less maintenance (because of high performance concrete), and material waste and greater consistency of finishing and results.

Production Control:

Programmed production, time delivery, and/or erection lessen the need for large stock inventoried left in the factory or on the site. Construction is faster on the site where a more efficient order of building components sequences can be maintained.

Inventory Control:

The thight inventory controls possible in a factory setting, over small-piece building material and components virtually eliminates the high rates of theft and vandalism on the site.

Labor Control:

More extensive use of unskilled labor is possible in the factory because of improved supervision (one foreman can adequately supervise more men) and because of the quality control inherent in the machinery or in the factory.

Climate Control:

Factory conditions release certain areas from the "building session" limitation imposed by their climate conditions. A permanent labor force that can be employed when days lost bad weather are minimized also reduces cost of training and initiation to jobs.

Problem Control:

the detailed appraisal of constructional problems before work begins results in fewer delays in construction after commencement on the site.