2024-12-20
AECOM’s Insights on Advancing MiMEP in Hong Kong
Having promoted the use of DfMA-inspired (Design for Manufacture and Assembly) prefabricated roof modules with pre-installed MEP for the Hong Kong Port of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai Macao Bridge, AECOM has set a new standard in construction efficiency and innovation. Subsequently, AECOM was commissioned by the Construction Industry Council (CIC) to develop industry guidelines for extending the DfMA approach into mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) works, known as MiMEP (Modular Integrated Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing).
Prepared by AECOM, the industry guideline Reference Material on Adopting DfMA for MEP Works, published in 2021, encourages offsite prefabrication solutions while fully harnessing digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM).
Prepared by AECOM, the industry guideline Reference Material on Adopting DfMA for MEP Works, published in 2021, encourages offsite prefabrication solutions while fully harnessing digital tools such as Building Information Modelling (BIM).
In the three years since, MiMEP has experienced healthy development in Hong Kong. However, technical, logistical and supply chain challenges still need to be addressed in order to drive further adoption.
3SS Smart Support Solution to Manage Large MiMEP Frames
Given that MiMEP seeks to integrate multiple systems into a single, cohesive module, a more comprehensive and robust concept is needed for transportation protection, on-site hanging, and construction facilitation. AECOM has developed the Three SS (3SS) Smart Support solution to provide a framework that addresses these technical challenges and encourages the adoption of MiMEP.
Given that MiMEP seeks to integrate multiple systems into a single, cohesive module, a more comprehensive and robust concept is needed for transportation protection, on-site hanging, and construction facilitation. AECOM has developed the Three SS (3SS) Smart Support solution to provide a framework that addresses these technical challenges and encourages the adoption of MiMEP.
Learn more about AECOM’s 3SS Smart Support solution here.
Tackling Logistics Issues through Digital Solutions and Careful Planning
Nowadays, digital solutions have emerged to track logistics and mitigate potential delays caused by long-distance travel. However, more mature solutions are still in need to address certain issues when adopting MiMEP. For instance, the large size and weight of MiMEP modules can present a bottleneck for on-site logistics, necessitating specialised equipment and careful planning.
Application of the 6Ps Framework to Identify Suitable Suppliers
A solid base of suppliers is also crucial for further adoption of MiMEP. Supply chains in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area and further into Mainland China have emerged to meet this demand. Yet, the market still remains in a growth phase, and the industry now requires a broader range of skillsets beyond just MEP. AECOM’s 6Ps checklist on People, Plant, Place, Product, Price and Practices can serve as a valuable tool to make an informed decision when selecting a suitable supplier.
Three years after the publication of AECOM’s industry guideline, both the public and private sectors in Hong Kong have shown a growing interest in adopting MiMEP.
AECOM’s goal is to facilitate wider adoption of MiMEP in Hong Kong by collaborating with industry partners to enhance productivity, quality and safety, while also achieving environmental sustainability.
Learn more about AECOM’s insight in driving MiMEP adoption: Evolving forward: advancing MiMEP in Hong Kong | Without Limits