Structural design of high rise volumetric building systems using hot-rolled steel

In recent times there has been a significant growth in the use of offsite techniques for construction, particularly in the use of volumetric modules for buildings. In the UK this sector alone is estimated to be worth approximately £1 billion a year, with further growth being driven by a skills shortage and government initiatives to modernise the industry. While there is a commonality of solutions for modular buildings, there is little guidance or consensus on design methods. This paper provides guidance on the design of high-rise modular buildings, specifically those using modules made from hot-rolled steel members and tied to a separate stability core or bracing system.