Blog: SECBE Awards 2022 finalist - The MFS i-Form Solution

06 April 2022

Modern Methods of Construction

The MFS i-Form Solution™ (submitted by Masonry Frame Systems)  

Modern Methods of Construction Constructing Excellence SECBE Awards 2022 Finalist

Since Mark Farmer published his seminal report ‘Modernise or Die’ in 2016 Masonry Frame Systems have been verging on the evangelical about MMC and the offsite ‘Manufacturing-Led’ construction ‘Platforms’ that form such an integral part of delivering a true MMC solution.

Which is why the company realised that they needed to clearly define its own P-DfMA approach to MMC. To put it in a nutshell as a systematic formula; easy to understand, easy to benchmark and easy to commission, over and above traditional build methods or purely volumetric ‘one size fits all’ MMC routes.

So, the MFS i-Form Solution™ was trademarked in August 2020, but has been years in development.

As part of the MFS i-Form Solution™ the M is for the offsite Manufacture of standardised, scalable and repeatable components.

In most cases Masonry Frame Systems use Xella Silka Elements, which are very large-format blocks and full height wall panels. Each element can weigh up to 400kg and is 20N/mm2 strength, equivalent in volume to approx. 60-80 standard bricks.

Each element is precision-engineered and cut-to-size exactly to Masonry Frame Systems design specification, including all builders’ work holes. This is completed in factory controlled conditions to compile a 'Kit of Parts'. This ‘Kit’ is then delivered to site, in the exact order required for assembly by our teams of two operatives using one mini-crane. Almost like a ‘Flat-Packed’ building.

Additionally, using offsite technology in terms of design and manufacture allows the company to deliver additional benefits, such as preformed builders work holes (saving thousands) and integrated PCC elements such as cantilever balconies, staircases and roof trusses.

The offsite manufacture of these elements also eliminates dust onsite and results in zero waste to landfill, use Xella Silka Elements, which are very large-format blocks and full height wall panels. Each element can weigh up to 400kg and is 20N/mm2 strength, equivalent in volume to approx. 60-80 standard bricks.

Each element is precision-engineered and cut-to-size exactly to the design specification, including all builders’ work holes. This is completed in factory controlled conditions to compile a 'Kit of Parts'. This ‘Kit’ is then delivered to site, in the exact order required for assembly by our teams of two operatives using one mini-crane. Almost like a ‘Flat-Packed’ building.

MFS i-Form Solution™ is about building BETTER, GREENER & SMARTER to deliver unique & sustainable developments for the clients & local communities.

Key achievements:

• The MFS i-Form Solution™ was trademarked in 2020, with the aim of raising awareness, enhancing understanding and boosting industry confidence in offsite technologies and a P-DfMA approach to MMC. We have leveraged new timber products and techniques to create London’s largest and most efficient timber office building.

• Building Better & Smarter: evidenced by
  • 200% quicker build times
  • 100% BIM compliance
  • Over 90% offsite manufacture
  • 100% productivity
  • 80% less labour
  • 20% saving on overall build cost
  • Class 2B Disp. Collapse solution
  • Pre-formed builders work holes
  Highly relevant for medium-high rise

• Greener & Born Covid-ready: evidenced by
  • Recycled & natural core materials
  • Lower embodied carbon
  • Less dust on site
  • Zero waste to landfill
  • COVID-Secure teams of two
  • Fire resistant 4hrs+
  • Excellent thermal & acoustic performance

Project Partners: Masonry Frame Systems Ltd, Xella GmbH, H+H Celcon, LISSMAC Maschinenbau GmbH, Milbank Concrete Products Ltd

Find out who wins at the Constructing Excellence SECBE Awards 2022 Ceremony on Thurs 30th June 2022.

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About the Modern Methods of Construction :

This Award Category considers a number of factors that are convening to make offsite construction a more attractive solution than ever before and help address systemic failures including low productivity, low predictability, low margins, adversarial pricing, lack of culture for collaboration, limited R&D and investment in innovation and poor image.  More info.

>> Find out more about the other Constructing Excellence SECBE Awards finalists here