What is a jail cell prefabricated?
Prefabricated cells — also known as modular systems — are self-contained, prefabricated cells that can be manufactured on the factory floor and delivered to a construction site SteelCell. You can install it immediately with the lights, toilet, basin, bunks, access to utility holes and any other features you may need.
Contrary to the traditional method of building jails, where masonry is used and then equipped with various elements, prefabricated detention units are constructed from heavy gauge steel that resists rust. A crane lifts them into position by lifting the trucks. Modules can be stacked atop each other to make multistory structures.
What is the benefit of a prefabricated cell?
Time. Due to the fact that every unit is made in a manufacturing facility, some efficiencies can be achieved. The construction of the jail foundations can also be carried out while the production is taking place.
Space. Steel wall panels have a thinner thickness than the traditional concrete wall. When space is an issue on your site, you can use prefab prison units.
Foundation Requirements Prefabricated Steel Cells Weigh Less Than Concrete Cells. This could lead to less expensive foundational piles, slabs, or footings.
Simplified process. There is less coordination required between vendors once construction gets underway because manufacturers include many of their features in the final product. There will be fewer vendors, contractors and suppliers for the installation of finishes, furniture, building materials or construction.
What are the cons of prefabricated detention units?
Cost. You can expect to spend up to one-third extra for a typical county jail in Upper Midwest for prefabricated cell construction than for traditional masonry. In fact, if the construction crews are able to save time, then this may make a difference that is smaller.
Shipping. Prefabricated jail cells tend to be manufactured in Southern U.S. state, and freight costs may vary greatly depending on distance. The semi truck is usually able to fit up four units. So, if you are buying 50 jail cells, your costs may be quite high.
Carbon footprint. It is much more carbon-intensive than concrete. A ton or more of greenhouse gasses are produced for each ton (or kilogram) of structural steel. Over-the road transportation also generates additional emissions. Traditional jail construction, in general is regarded as being a far more sustainable building model.
Loudness levels. As compared with traditional masonry, steel core wall can be extremely loud. Inmates’ pounding walls, closing the detention gates, screaming, and making other noises can reverberate and create an unpleasant environment for both other inmates and correctional officer on duty.
Less flexible. Big jail projects often take years between the planning and completion phases. Over the course of that time there will be many changes that could impact your design. This allows the construction to be more flexible to accommodate these changes. It is impossible, for example to modify the HVAC system in each cell due to new configurations of the mechanical chase if all rough-ins are already prefabricated at the plant.
When should you use prefabricated detention cells?
The use of prefabricated cell blocks is a great option for those who are short on time. It can help save as much as six months during the construction phase. It could also be advantageous if the local government has grant money to spend by a specified deadline. Another circumstance may demand a more rapid completion. For example, an overcrowded prison might require urgent attention.
The prefabricated units may also be suited to a highly populated area as in the case of a central business district, or other structures nearby. Since each cell can be simply lifted and placed from a truck, this can reduce noise and disrupt surrounding properties.
Typically, mobile jail cells will be installed in new buildings, and not for renovations. This is because they are difficult to incorporate into an existing building.