Currently, pre-fabricated and pre-cast structural elements are increasingly used in civil construction. One of the main reasons is cost reduction, along with the agility it brings to the construction process, helping in its completion with safety and quality.
However, there are those who cannot differentiate between both types of structures, which can make execution a bit difficult. Discover below some particularities about pre-fabricated and pre-cast elements to understand how they behave within a project and the benefits they can bring.
What are pre-cast elements?
“Pre-cast” (pré-moldado) has its meaning directly linked to elements made from molded concrete that are outside their final position of use. Therefore, before implementing it in a project, it is essential to understand its constitution and concept to avoid mistakes.
All pre-cast elements differ from pre-fabricated ones, considering they are produced within the construction site. Even if they do not have to undergo rigorous quality control requirements, the structures are not produced with low quality.
In fact, this type of structure is produced based on previously established technical standards, ensuring that the quality of the final product is maintained above all else. Any structure that is pre-cast should be used to promote a reduction in labor and the time required for a building.
And pre-fabricated elements?
Pre-fabricated structures are those where construction is carried out on an industrial scale, meaning in larger quantities and with prior planning. With this material, it is easy to find various types of concrete and steel used during its production period.
For them to be approved, the signature of the responsible parties is required, preventing potential accidents and also ensuring the origin of the product that was previously produced. With these measures, the construction becomes safer for both the client and the workers.
It is worth saying that pre-fabricated and pre-cast materials, as previously mentioned, have very attentive quality and technology control. All pieces will be properly attached to the project once they have sufficient strength to be positioned on-site.
What are the benefits of using them?
There are many benefits to using pre-cast and pre-fabricated elements in a project. Check below what they are and how they can be properly used to ensure a safer, firmer execution, and also certainty regarding the origin of the materials used.
Versatility
Versatility is one of the most positive points in both cases, considering that their use can go beyond large-scale projects, such as the construction of buildings, bridges, and viaducts. Pre-cast elements, for example, have been increasingly used in smaller buildings, schools, and parking lots.
Construction Agility
Agility is also an important point to mention, considering that with the use of pre-cast and pre-fabricated elements, the project tends to move faster. Because of the pre-prepared and properly inspected structures, there is no way to waste time with errors.
Construction Safety
As previously mentioned, pre-cast and pre-fabricated elements provide a lot of safety to any project, considering they follow rigorous inspection standards. In addition, pre-fabricated structures also count on a specialist’s signature to guarantee the origin of a given structure.
Economy
Finally, there is still a benefit to be highlighted: economy. The prefix “pre” implies that something was previously made or built. In this way, when acquiring one of the two types of structure, there is already a prior preparation for its use in the project, which allows for saving time and money since it will not be necessary to start from scratch.
After all this, it is important to say that pre-cast and pre-fabricated elements are extremely important for the progress of a project, regardless of its size. Thus, looking for the best materials and reliable companies will make all the difference.
Always look for a qualified professional for your structural project.
