Ceiling void module
Offsite residential construction, Glossary of terms, published by Buildoffsite in 2018, defines a combined and single service horizontal rack (or ceiling void module) as: ‘Integrated ductwork with pipe work and cable management support trays into a multiservices module mounted in the ceiling or under the floor. Usually constructed as an open frame structure, which reduces the overall weight of each section. Horizontal distribution has been in use for many years, but more recently mechanical ducting or pipework systems/modules are usually combined with electrical service distribution. Often ‘supply and fit’, these systems are fully manufactured offsite in factory conditions. While the pipework or ducting can be tested in the factory the system once connected must be systemtested and commissioned onsite. Modules should be constructed to give ease of access in the long-term. Examples have shown that two operatives can install over 90 m of pipework and over 45 m of cabling support in one day.’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.
Plumbing and heating for sustainability in new properties
Technical Engineer runs through changes in regulations, innovations in materials, and product systems.
Awareness of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism
What CBAM is and what to do about it.
The new towns and strategic environmental assessments
12 locations of the New Towns Taskforce reduced to 7 within the new towns draft programme and open consultation.
Buildings that changed the future of architecture. Book review.
The Sustainability Pathfinder© Handbook
Built environment agency launches free Pathfinder© tool to help businesses progress sustainability strategies.
Government outcome to the late payment consultation, ECA reacts.
IHBC 2025 Gus Astley Student Award winners
Work on the role of hewing in UK historic conservation a win for Jack Parker of Oxford Brookes University.
Future Homes Building Standards and plug-in solar
Parts F and L amendments, the availability of solar panels and industry responses.
How later living housing can help solve the housing crisis
Unlocking homes, unlocking lives.
Preparing safety case reports for HRBs under the BSA
A new practical guide to preparing structural inputs for safety cases and safety case reports published by IStructE.
Male construction workers and prostate cancer
CIOB and Prostate Cancer UK encourage awareness of prostate cancer risks, and what to do about it.