(190a) Building with Blocks

Chemical processing facilities traditionally use a “stick build” approach for expansions, retrofits and new plants. This involves field installation and erection of all equipment, piping and components. Costs for this strategy are well understood which perpetuates its continued preference. However, this may not always be the most cost effective approach or the most appropriate strategy. In some instances Modular Manufacturing offers a lower cost alternative to conventional methods. Modules can be thought of as the building blocks from which processes can be built. In small scale manufacturing these modules can be designed with considerable flexibility and bolted on to for enhanced capability. In some cases modules can be assembled as a faster and lower cost way to build a large facility, particularly when local skilled resources are a limitation.

This presentation will highlight beneficial applications of modular manufacturing utilized in a centralized facility. The presentation will also include identified knowledge gaps that limit a broader use of the technology. More cost information and understanding is needed to know when the best approach is to build with blocks or sticks.