Construction Review Africa

Since 1989

August 2015, Vol 26 No. 8 Africa's leading construction journal

Nigeria: A look at PM+CDC Associates Ghana: New World Bank Office Building Used Equipment: Tips on what to look for

Botswana Pula 60.00, Ethiopia Birr 140.00, Ghana Cedi 23.00, Kenya Ksh 500.00, Namibia N$ 80.00, Nigeria Naira 1,300.00 Rwanda Rwf 4,800.00,South Africa R 60.00, Tanzania Tsh 12,700.00, Uganda Ush 20,000.00, Zambia Zmk 40.00, Zimbabwe US$ 7.00

The V

xperience e of e alu

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Forty years of innovation

Koma Koma Bridge - Lesotho

in South Africa

Global Presence Mbabane Bypass - Swaziland

Local Experience, World Expertise

Š Photo Credits: Photo Gallery Soletanche Freyssinet - 2014

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Dorstfontein coal storage slot - South Africa

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MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes COUNTRY EDITORS Kenya - Francis Makari Uganda - Samuel Bujingo Nigeria - Boladale Ademiju South Africa - Newton Mthethwa SUB-EDITOR David Kariuki WRITERS Jimmy Swira, Thunile Alletta Nkosi Lindsay Wagner, Yvonne Andiva Erick Mongare, Hope Simuli Dorcas Kang'ereha WEB & GRAPHIC DESIGN Augustine Ombwa Bonface Kimunyi ADVERTISING Kenya William Mutama, Fred Okoth, Frances Lagoussis (Mombasa), Trizah Njoroge, Faustine Salleh, Joseph Mwangi South Africa: Manoko Thosago, Happy Mokoena Shepherd Mthethwa, Winnie Sentabire, Angeline Ntobeng, Nqobile Ndlovu

CON

Africa turns to windpower

Since 1989

The quest for renewable sources of energy in Africa has reached fever pitch as the world turns to wind as one of the most viable sources

August 2015, Vol 26 No. 8 Africa's leading construction journal

Cover Picture The cover picture shows a wind farm.

Notably Egypt and Morocco is the region with the highest wind power energy production facilities

Uganda: Dan Nsalasata,Bill Collins Musaazi Botswana: Dickson Manyudza, Gerald Mazikana Ethiopia: Haimanot Tesfaye, Ruth Girma Tanzania: Tom Kiage Malawi: Anderson Fumulani Ghana: Samuel Hinneh Zimbabwe: Cyri’l Zenda

Nigeria: A look at PM+CDC Associates Ghana: New World Bank Office Building Used Equipment: Tips on what to look for

14

Botswana Pula 60.00, Ethiopia Birr 140.00, Ghana Cedi 23.00, Kenya Ksh 500.00, Namibia N$ 80.00, Nigeria Naira 1,300.00 Rwanda Rwf 4,800.00,South Africa R 60.00, Tanzania Tsh 12,700.00, Uganda Ush 20,000.00, Zambia Zmk 40.00, Zimbabwe US$ 7.00

REGULARS Editor's Comment 5

Rwanda: Collison Lore

News 6

Nigeria: Seni Bello

New Products 8

China:Weng Jie

The editor accepts letters and manuscripts for publication from readers all over the world.

Include your name and address as a sign of good faith although you may request your name to be withheld from publication. We reserve the right to edit any material submitted .

Send your letters to: info@constructionreviewonline.com Construction Review is published eleven times a year and is circulated to members of relevant associations, governmental bodies and other personnel in the building and construction industry as well as suppliers of equipment, materials and services in Africa, the Middle and Far East. The editor welcomes articles and photographs for consideration. Material may not be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. The publisher does not accept responsibility for the accuracy or authenticity of advertisements or contributions contained in the journal. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher. © All rights reserved.

Download free QR Readers from the web and Scan this code with your smart phone to access more stories on the CR website

Association News 9 Events 9 Corporate News 10 Guest: Ronald Buye - Lecturer at African Rural University

12

Bathroom - Sprucing up your bathroom 16 Water pumps - Which pump for the job? 23 Mechanically Stabilised Earth (MSE)

26

The Retaining wall with a healing effect Termite Control - A contractor’s worst nightmare 28

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TENTS

August 2015 Volume 26 No.8

Editor's Comment

Used Equipment Many listings in machinery websites are far from being true. Many listed equipment does not exist, others are not in the location that is listed and others have a very optimistic description of condition.

Africa turns to windpower Wind is becoming a major source of electricity around the world and its benefits are enormous. The abundance of wind means that its recent rapid growth is expected to continue especially given the fact that its cost are projected to keep falling.

Although North Africa notably Egypt and Morocco

20 World Bank the World Bank Offices reflect the culture of the global group within a local context, whereby a shading screen wall over the four-storey structure is detailed to form a contemporary interpretation of traditional Ghanaian Kente Weaving culture

32

is the region with the highest wind power energy production facilities, South and East Africa have in recent years embarked on large projects that will soon close this gap if they have not already.

Proponents of wind power says that it can go a long way in boosting electricity supply in Africa, a much needed impetus to spur economic growth in the continent. Although, wind power has far reaching benefits, the expensive cost of the turbines and man power has continued to haunt African countries.

Though wind power investment in Africa continues to surge it remains to be seen whether this will translate to economic growth in a continent where the majority of

Rooftile Machines 30 Rooftile machines take advantage of concrete’s green credentials

countries are poor.

PM+CDC Associates 34 Cranes For West African Construction Projects Towering above the rest

South Africa Office College Publishers CC 1st Floor, 267 Oak Avenue, Oakfields, Randburg, Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 781 4253 Fax: +27 11 781 4287 Email: southafrica@groupafricapublishing.com Ethiopia Office Haymi Advertising Services 22 Mazoria, Genet Bldg 4th Flr P.O. Box 1316 - 1110 Addis Ababa Tel: +251 118 955 855 Cell: +251 930 099 152 Email: ethiopia@groupafricapublishing.com

36

Robert Barnes

Zimbabwe Office J.S. Reconnect (Pvt) Ltd 436 Ettington Road, Greystone Park, Harare Zimbabwe

Nigeria Office

Kenya Office Northwest Ventures Ltd P.O. Box 16414 Nairobi 00100 Tel: +254 20 2679809 I 2679808, 2091305 Email: kenya@groupafricapublishing.com

Ifako Ijaye Lga,Agege, Lagos.

Ghana Office Image Consortium 1st Floor, TheEcobank Building, Tesano.

Tel: 233(0)30 223 2728 I Fax: 233(0)24 882 8286 Email: ghana@groupafricapublishing.com

Rahma Associates B23/24, Aishetu Emoewa Plaza 196, Iju Water Works Road, Tel: 234-1-7347860 Email: nigeria@groupafricapublishing.com Rwanda Office Kolline & Hemed Inc., B.P. 3328, Kigali, Rwanda Tel: +250 03 748106 E-mail: rwanda@groupafricapublishing.com Website: www.kollinehemed.org

ENERGY NEWS

Kenya

South Africa

Ethiopia

Geothermal energy boosted by Kengen’s 375Mw steam wells

Construction work on new compressed natural gas plant in Southern Durban Spring Lights Gas (SLG) which is one of the largest piped gas

Power grid to benefit from US$ 120m highvoltage transmission

KenGen which is the largest

suppliers for KwaZulu Natal Industry is set to commission a new

Ethiopia's power grid is to

power producing company in

compressed natural gas (CNG) Plant in Southern Durban before the

Kenya has discovered a steam

end of this year. The CEO of Spring Light Gas, Nkosinathi Solomon

well at its Olkaria fields that

noted recently that construction work on the plant had already begun

can generate up to 375MW

but hesitated to give the exact cost of the whole construction process.

of electricity; this will come

The new SLG facility will provide energy of 250 000kj/y to 550

in handy as it will enhance

000kj/y upon its completion and would use German technology. The

geothermal energy production

facility will also be able to give ten permanent jobs and will have

in Kenya. KenGen’s director for

multipliers such as logistic companies which will truck its CNG to

geothermal development, Abel

customers who are the main beneficiaries. According to Solomon, his

Rotich confirmed the reports and said that the wells will be used to develop three power plants with total capacity of 350MW. “The available steam is 374.7MW. This is for Olkaria 1 Unit 6, a single unit of 70MW to be constructed at Olkaria 1.

"Available steam for this plant is 84MW. The Olkaria V Power Plant is a 140MW Project.

Steam available for this plant is 166.4 MW while the other 140MW Olkaria VI plant has 124.3 MW of available steam.” said Abel Rotich. The director further said that the company plans to develop the Olkaria V and Olkaria VI plants in the coming two to four years, with construction of the Olkaria V to begin before the year ends. At the moment, KenGen has hired consultants for the project and is in the process of selecting contractors.

Negotiations

for

funding the project are also underway

with

development

partners. KenGen is the leading electric

power

generation

company in Kenya, producing about 80 percent of electricity

company has taken the initiative to invest in the compressed natural gas plant so as to help the gas market in South Africa. This will help even as different sources of gas are looked for in order to cater for the challenges that South Africa is facing at the moments.

Ghana 10MW solar power plant to be ready by September Ghana solar power efforts are to receive a shot in the arm once work on a 10MW Solar Assemble Plant is commissioned by September 2015. This was revealed by the Power Minister, Dr. Kwame Donkor during his inspection tour at the plant facility. The minister urged the Ghanaian institutions and the citizens at large to consider solar power which is ultimately cost effective and at the same time offering a helping hand to the government in energy conservation efforts that are currently underway in response to energy crisis experienced in the country lately. However, the government is presently working on a local policy content to govern the power sector and ensure local companies actively contribute in power conservation campaign while indigenous companies and investors are urged to invest in solar power across Ghana. The renewable energy resources are the future for domestic consumption given that it is cost effective and affordable for households. On completion, the facility will manufacture solar panels at a more accessible and cost effective price to all Ghanaian homes and institutions. According to the Trade Works Company Ltd, Managing Director Randy Sey, the plant is 84% complete and is soon expected to be accessible to the public.

benefit from plans to commence on a mega construction worth US$ 120m of a high-voltage transmission

line

connecting

with Kenya as part of plans to boost regional power exports.

“The

Ethio-Kenya

Interconnection

Power

Project

will

help to utilize power resources together

and

the

national

network expansion will facilitate power trade in the region,” said Ethiopia’s Water, Irrigation and Energy

Minister

Tegenu.

The

agreement

was

Alemayehu multi-million signed

by

Ethiopian Electric Power’s Chief Executive Azeb Asnake and the CEPET’s vice-president Chen Wei from China Electric Power Equipment and Technology.

The transmission line will stretch from Wolaita in southern Ethiopia to the border, making half of the planned 1,045 km link with Kenya. It will consist of a 2,000 MW capacity line once complete. It is jointly financed

by African Development Bank, World Bank and the French Development Agency, with the AfDB financing the Ethiopian part of the project. The project is anticipated to be completed in less than three years from now. Ethiopia currently exports less than 10MW to the Kenyan border towns; it plans to increase the current 100 MW it sells

consumed in the country. The

to Sudan and the 50 MW to

company utilises various sources

Djibouti this year. It also has

to generate electricity ranging

agreements to export 400 MW to

from hydro, geothermal, thermal

Rwanda and Tanzania and soon

and wind.

to Burundi.

6

August 2015

CONSTRUCTION NEWS

South Africa

Rwanda

Kenya

Construction works on Dongo Kundu bypass in Kenya to start soon

Kliptown development project receives US$49.49m Johannesburg and the Provincial Government of Gauteng has injected over US$49.49m as an investment for Kliptown development. This was noted by the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, Parks Tau during the recent launch of the Kliptown Development Project in Soweto.

Mayor Parks noted that the government was committed to Kliptown development as a historic place where people have flourished in freedom despite the past oppressions. Through uplifting and improving the living conditions of the people of Kliptown, the Gauteng Provincial Government invested a total of US$66.16m in the last decade to develop the Kliptown.

The money used was still from Johannesburg and the Provincial Government of Gauteng.

FIFA Goal project to fund Four-star hotel A four-star hotel funded by FIFA Goal project will be constructed in Rwanda as from July by Rwanda Football Federation (FERWAFA); this is according to the Federation President Vincent Nzamwita.The hotel is anticipated to lower the costs that the Ministry of Sports and Culture (MINISPOC) incurs on national teams during residential training or accommodation for visiting national teams. Apart from it being used by the national teams, FERWAFA is also planning to use it for commercial purposes so as to help in the generation of income for different sports activities. The development which will cost US$ 6m is projected to be built in four phases with the first phase including the construction of 40 rooms. In total it will consist of 100 rooms. FIFA Goal Project Programme has provided a grant of US$ 3m towards the project while the other half will be sourced from a loan. It will be erected on land next to the FERWAFA headquarters in Remera, currently occupied by Rwanda Police.

Association Partners

Kenya

- Architectural Association of Kenya - Institute of Quantity Surveyors of Kenya - Institute of Engineers of Kenya - Association of Consulting Engineers of Kenya - Association of Professional Societies of East Africa APSEA) - Kenya Property developers Association - Institution of Surveyors of Kenya

Uganda

Institute of Surveyors of Uganda

- Association of Ethiopian Architects - Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers

Association of Consulting Engineers of

Tanzania

Ethiopia

- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors - Construction Regulation Board (CRB)

Construction Contractors Association of Ethiopia

Ghana

Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors

Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors

- Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors - Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers - The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)

Namibia Namibia

Botswana

- Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)

Zimbabwe

South Africa

- ASAQS - SAICE - South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession - Khuthaza ( Women for Housing) - Concrete Manufacturers Association - Green Building council of SA - South African Property Owners Association - Master Builders South Africa

Ethiopia

The ground-breaking ceremony of the Dongo Kundu bypass which links Miritini to the Mombasa port will be done soon and construction works to commence thereafter; this is according to the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).

“Mobilisation of equipment is now complete and soon the contractor will commence the Dongo Kundu bypass project,” said Charles Njogu, in-charge of communications at KeNHA. The Dongo Kundu bypass project which is anticipated to enhance and ease the movement of cargo from the port of Mombasa to neighbouring countries will take 36 months to complete. The construction will be divided into three phases, the first being the construction of a 10km stretch from Miritini.to Kipevu.

- Ghana Institute of Engineers - Architects Registration Council - Ghana Institute of Surveyors - Ghana Green Builders Association - Ghana Institute of Planners - Association of Building and Civil Engineering Contractors of Ghana

August 2015

Nigeria - Association of Consulting Engineers Nigeria

- Association of Professional Women Engineers Of Nigeria - Council of Registered Builders of Nigeria - The Nigerian Institute of Architects - American Association of Petroleum Geologists Africa Region - Nigeria Society of Engineers - Nigeria Institute of Architects - Building and Construction Skilled Artisans Association of Nigeria(BACSAAN) 7

PRODUCTS

Wet batch plants provide quality concrete

HELIOTHERME 4000 ATEX FROM CIAT The new Héliotherme 4000 air heater from CIAT achieves energy

ULTRALOOP Vehicle Detectors by EMX Industries

Ready-mix wet batch concrete plants – with capacities ranging from 30 cubic metres to over 240 cubic metres per hour – are a more cost-effective alternative to the traditional dry ‘Karoo’ batch plants that currently dominate the local market. Pan Mixers South Africa (PMSA) is the largest supplier of concrete brick, block and paving making machinery in Africa. To maintain its competitive edge, the company recently entered into a local partnership with Italianbased construction machinery manufacturer, IMER.

savings of the order of 20% compared with the previous generations

In many cases simply detecting

through the use of the ROTOREX fan-motor assembly and the JET+

that a vehicle is present is not

airflow system. It is the ideal technical and economic solution for

enough. It is also important to

heating premises by hot air ventilation in winter and cooling by

know whether it is stopped or

circulation of cold air in summer. In its ATEX version, Héliotherme

moving. We have all walked

4000 is intended primarily for industrial premises with external

down a sidewalk and seen

production of hot water, chilled water or, more generally, thermal

the doors of a store open

fluid: workshops, storage warehouses, etc. Héliotherme 4000 ATEX

automatically,

is certified for applications in the presence of potentially-explosive

we are not going in. A similar

flammable gas or combustible dust in zone 1 or zone 2, for explosion

thing can happen in parking

groups IIA, IIB or IIC, and for temperature classes T1 to T6. Of course,

lots or garages with automatic

it incorporates all the innovations of the Héliotherme 4000 range.

exit gates. There is a vehicle

Héliotherme 4000 uses the ROTOREX technology, which gives it

detection loop at the exit to open

two principal advantages. First, the motor’s electrical windings are

the gate or parking barrier and

inserted into the fan hub, and the displaced air is used to cool the

let cars out, but in some cramped

motor. This optimizes the efficiency and reliability of the motor, as

lots cars simply moving around

it runs cooler. Second, the rotor blades are now highly-profiled and

the lot pass over this loop and

aerodynamic, rather than flat as previously, so that an adequate air

cause the gate to open.

change rate is attained more easily. Héliotherme 4000 is also fitted as standard with the JET+ double-deflection diffuser.

even

though

What’s needed is a detector that will sense when a car has actually stopped in front

The partnership will see PMSA stock and distribute IMER wet batch plants to industries across Southern Africa. Globally, wet batch mixing concrete plants are the standard for readymix and site batching. PMSA Marketing and Sales Manager Quintin Booysen indicates there is a noticeable shift towards this trend in Southern Africa, where high-strength and high-quality concrete is required in minimal time. “There is a definitive trend among plant owners looking to move towards wet batching.

PMSA and IMER have identified this as a major growth sector and, as a result, we recently received two orders for IMER wet batch plants to showcase to existing and potential clients,” he explains. The IMER wet batch plants from PMSA are fitted with either a planetary or twin-shaft mixer, depending on the capacity of the plant.

8

of the gate. This improves security and helps keep cars from sneaking in/out without paying – i.e. tailgating. EMX has solved this problem with its new DETECT-ON-STOP™ (DOS®) technology – which is only available in its line of ULTRALOOP vehicle detectors (ULT-PLG,

ULT-MVP

and

ULT-DIN). The DOS output

Gioco Solutions

triggers only when a vehicle

Gioco Solutions flexible solar panels are very thin (1.5 mm) ,

the loop and ignores cars that

lightweight (less than 2,5Kg /m^2) and are manufactured using

keep going therefore barriers and

photovoltaic cells with GWire Technology, an innovative cell grid technology that increases the number of inter contacts between the

stops for at least one second over

gates will stay closed.

fingers and wires in the cell respect to a standard cell. As a matter of fact, in a standard solar cell there are only few connections between the fingers and the busbars. This is really dangerous on a flexible panel because if a crack occurs, the power generated from this cell won’t be able to reach the busbars and therefore won’t be used. Apart from their resistance and reliability, these cells are also pretty powerful, in fact monocrytalline cells have efficiency 20% and polycrystalline cells have efficiency 17%.

August 2015

ASSOCIATION NEWS & EVENTS

South Africa: Gas Options

The 2015 Master Builders South Africa Congress to Address Sustainability in Africa

African Construction Expo, TotallyConcrete

Date: 28th-30th September 2015 Venue: Cape Town, S. Africa Website: www.southafricagasoptions.com

Date:1st -3rd September, 2015 Venue: Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, Nigeria Web: totally-concrete.com/west

Held with the support of the South

West Africa is gearing up for

African IPP Office following

massive growth in urbanisation and infrastructure development.

the recent RFI announcement,

Having overtaken East Africa

this timely investment briefing will take a detailed look at the

by attracting 23% of total The 110th Annual 2015 Master Builders South Africa Congress is set

investments in projects in Africa

to take place on 16 and 17 September 2015 in South Africa its Theme

with a value of almost $75 billion

of South Africa and the resulting

being “Building Sustainability in Africa”. The 2015 Master Builders

in projects, opportunities in the

commercial opportunities for gas

South Africa Congress will provide a platform whereby national

West African cement, concrete

and infrastructure developers,

and African representatives will be able to discuss the latest trends,

and construction industries are

private sector investors, EPCs

challenges and opportunities that the building industry faces.Some of

global gas acquisition potential

and

logistics

South

Africa:

companies.

Gas

Options

C-suite participants will hear

the speakers who have been invited will be able to give information and insight on various things in the industry and allow room for debate and discussion. Speakers scheduled to address attending delegates include Max Du Preez, one of the principal journalists

directly from the South African

and political analyst in South Africa. Jabu Mabusa the Chairman

government as it defines the

of the Casino Association of South Africa (CASA), president of

country’s unique requirements

Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), chairman of Telkom SA

for gas acquisition and outlines

SOC Limited and executive chairman of Sphere Holdings. Ernst van

in the spotlight. Industry and construction accounts for 16% of total GDP in Africa’s largest economy, Africa’s

Nigeria economic

as

West

epicentre.

Dyk, a motivational speaker and Ambassador for the International Paralympics Committee and Laureus Sport for Good Foundation.

Simon Gear, a professional speaker and MC with focus on environmental issues. Rodney Milford, Programme Manager at the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB).

the vast investment potential of this market. Delegates will

39th YAPI- TURKEYBUILD Istanbul Date: 10 -14 May 2016, Venue:Tuyap - Buyukcekmece, Istanbul, Website: www.yapifuari.com.tr/eng/ th

th

Lagos is poised to become the world’s largest coastal megacity and will also set the scene for the 2015 African Construction Expo and Totally Concrete West Africa. The unique conference and expo will provide a platform

debate solutions to the challenges

for cement and construction

of raising finance, delivering

industry magnates to convene

an

efficient

infrastructure and the supporting industry, and the global LNG trends which could realise the country’s vision of a stable and sufficient power supply.

For

more

information,

visit

www.southafrica-gasoptions. com or contact amy.offord@ energynet.co.uk.

this September for access to

transmission Yapi – TurkeyBuild Istanbul is a key construction, building and interiors exhibitions in Turkey. Recognised as the country’s premier event for the building & construction industry’s major players, it annually welcomes thousands of international and local specialist trade visitors from Turkey and its surrounding countries. With sister events in Ankara and Izmir the YAPI portfolio is well known throughout the country, however Istanbul is the largest of the three events, welcoming over 110,000 visitors annually.

Top visiting countries (total 105 country) Iran, Azerbaijan, North Cyprus, Iraq,Bulgaria, Russia, Georgia, Germany,Saudi Arabia, Libya, Greece, Italy, Kosovo, Ukraine, China

August 2015

government stakeholders and investors who can facilitate commercial access into West Africa’s high growth markets.

The 2015 African Construction Expo

and

Totally

Concrete

West Africa boasts an advisory board of invaluable international expertise

including:

Vipul

Agrawal, Technical Assistance Director,

United

Cement

Company of Nigeria LTD. 9

CORPORATE NEWS

ALF signs an MoU with the Privida Energy

Eranove Group to construct 42MW Kenié HEP dam

The

The Eranove Group, a PanAfrican firm is set to deliver a 42MW hydroelectric power station in Mali at a cost of US$124m. The power station will be sited at the Kenié hydroelectric dam perpendicularly to the Niger River which is approximately 35km away from the east of the capital Bamako. The Kenié Energie Renouvelable signed the 30-year concession agreement contract on behalf of the Eranove Group with the Mali government.

The agreement stated that Eranove has the responsibility to finance, develop, construct and operate the Kenié hydroelectric dam project. However, according to the government of Mali the power station will as well be capable of generating about 175GWh which is equivalent to the average annual consumption of 175,000 households.

Africa

Leadership

Forum (ALF) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Privida Energy to boost the development of renewable energy projects that will lower the energy cost for Nigeria entrepreneurs. The multi-facetted

Sisa ngebulana billion group opens City Regional Mall City Regional Mall owned by the high flying businessman Sisa Ngebulana, founder and executive chairman of Billion Group has

project will provide training on how to design, generate, market, install and maintain solar power.

The project aims at providing a short-term alternative source

officially been opened. The regional mall which is located in Mthatha

of power to private and small

in the Eastern Cape is 60,000msq and was constructed at an estimated

scale business consumers via

cost of US $0.12bn and provide 4500 jobs during the construction

the solar technology. According

phase. This development project comes in as one of the greatest projects carried out by Sisa Ngebulana Billion Group and is part of a US $1.34bn investment that the company intends to develop in the

to Olumide Ajayi the ALF Executive Director enlightened the

willing

trainees

and

stakeholders at the Central Bank

Eastern Cape region. This will in turn create more job opportunities

of Nigeria’s Entrepreneurship

and contribute financially to the local region.

Development Centre during the

According to the owner Sisa Ngebulana, the mall has over 150 tenants signaling its confidence in investment in the region.

Ngebulana noted that the BT Ngebs City Regional Mall would have a mix of tenants and will include: retail shops, banking, home ware shops, health, sports and entertainment spots to ensure that the needs of the 478 000 households in the area are met.

Nigeria's Eko Electricity Company (EKEDC) to contribute 474MW to the national grid Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) in Nigeria has plans to generate about 474MW of power to boost its power distribution within its network via the embedded power program. This was revealed by Oladele Amoda, the EKEDC Managing Director. The embedded generation programme includes the construction of small size power plants for electricity generation which will be connected to and evacuated through the distribution network infrastructure. The Eko electricity distribution company Managing Director further explained that the project is part of the persistent efforts by the company with an aim of improving its power distribution services to their customers as well as providing a guarantee of sufficient and reliable power supply within its network, doubling its current allocation from the national grid. However, in a statement issued by Eko electricity distribution company about 14 firms qualified by having adequate technical and commercial capacityand have already been appointed to contribute to the first phase of the EKEDC power generation programme.

Nonetheless, the programme is currently under review for approval by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

10

forum that unemployment in the country is constantly rising due to inadequate power supply .

Gestamp Wind to construct a 102MW S.African wind farm Gestamp Wind, a Wind Project developer has been awarded the contract for development of a 102MW South African wind farm in Cooperton, Northern Cape under the Power Producer Procurement Programme. This will have a 20 years power purchase

agreement

(PPA).

Construction work on the wind power project is expected to begin early next year at a cost of US $0.16bn. According to the Country manager for Gestamp Wind, Carlos Rodriguez, 34 wind

APR Energy lands a US$ 30m gas turbine supply contract.

APR Energy is set to provide a gas turbine power plant for an industrial customer in Egypt after landing a US$ 30m contract. The leading world mobile power supplier signed the deal early this week after a competitive tender that attracted many companies eager to provide a gas turbine power plant for an industrial customer in Egypt. The project, which is for a minimum of 12 months, has an estimated value exceeding

US$30m

(€27m).

APR Energy’s plant will feature

(WTG’S)

three GE aeroderivative mobile

with a 3MW capacity will be part

turbines that will run on clean-

of the project. Construction of

burning natural gas. The plant is

the South African wind farm will

expected to begin generation in

also include a 132Kv substation .

early 2016.

turbine

generators

August 2015

Surveying and Measurement Equipment

www.pdd.co.za, info@pdd.co.za, T: +2711 206 8620, F: 086 605 2669, Whitby Manor, Midrand, South Africa

August 2015

11

GUEST

Improving the nature of residential housing strategies for better low income housing in Uganda

T Ronald Buye, MA Ethics and Public management and Lecturer at African Rural University.

In order to spur the private sector into providing house solutions to the low-income earners in the country’s urban areas the government should implement incentive-based strategies such as tax discounts for developers of middleclass and low-income housing projects 12

he quality of residential housing is strongly determined by income, in any given society. By 2012, Uganda was facing a backlog of 1.6 million housing units (currently standing at about 1.3 million units), with most (84%) of the 6.2 million poor houses being temporal dwellings.

Most of Ugandans in the urban areas have challenges accessing affordable houses due to low incomes. This limits ability to own and rent a better living place.

In the previous years (1970s and 1980s), housing policy implementation has been hampered by political instability. The country targeted at ensuring housing for all by 2000 through the National Shelter Strategy adopted in 1992, with recognition that collective efforts were necessary in solving the housing problems in the country.

While the Uganda National Housing Policy has evolved and is still evolving since independence, with the government coming up with various strategies and policies to improve the poor residential housing situation, more efforts are needed in order to solve the current residential housing challenges.

Reasons for affordable housing challenges Some of the factors that could be blamed for lack of affordable housing among middleincome earners in Uganda include developers targeting “wealthy and well-connected elites.” While many low-income earners in Uganda are employed in the informal sector, housing finance is largely accessed by wealth private sector.

Delivery of affordable residential houses in places like Kampala is being hampered by lack of affordable home financing solutions, high costs of infrastructure, and rising costs of land.

Strategies for solving affordable housing challenges With many of the housing developments falling under the local government as a result of Uganda’s use of decentralization as one of the models of allocating resources, it is necessary for the government to “identify tasks best done at a decentralized level and those that can be best done by private house provide.”

To improve the situation for low-income earners, the government through the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development in Uganda should also work with other stakeholders. Uganda must consider a policy that considers housing markets, how resources are allocated to housing, and the impact of government’s regulation and actions to access of affordable and adequate housing for low income earners. A national housing policy must be drafted to focus on participation of different stakeholders in the housing sector. The policy must highlight on demand and supply of houses in major urban areas in the country, and contain realistic goals.

Since the quantity and quality of houses in urban areas is part of the challenge, stakeholders must consider the cost of providing residential houses in view of their demand and ability to pay for low income earners. A good affordable housing system model should focus on policy, planning, design, financing and partnerships.In order to spur the private sector into providing house solutions to the low-income earners in the country’s urbans the government should implement incentive-based strategies such as tax discounts for developers of middle-class and low-income housing projects.

To read more and to comment on this story visit

http://www.constructionreviewonline.com

August 2015

Construction Chemicals

TOWER CRANES

Category A4 Cranes - 25+ Years Lifespan

MoyaProof & MoyaShield For a Seamless, Waterproof and Leakproof Structure

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• Water Plugs and Water Repellants • Cementitious Liquid Applied Flexible Membranes • Anticarbonation Coatings • Waterproofing by Crystallisation • Water Stops • Cold Applied Bitumen Systems

Available in more than 20 countries across Africa

P.O. Box 5936, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 6 5314155 • Fax: +971 6 5314332 e-mail: conmix@conmix.com • website: www.conmix.com

JASO cranes are designed and manufactured according to FEM 1001 are designed to machine classification A4, Other Indian and Chinese brand cranes reaches only machine classification A3. Our cranes life is 25 years plus, where as A3 means a life of 10-14 years. We have official steel certification to prove this.

Our smallest crane J36 can free stand to 30meters, our competition cranes are not strong enough for that and need anchoring much earlier....this anchoring is also a cost in terms of erection, dismantling and repairing of the areas after dismantling.

Low Maintenance & extremely reliable design. This is especially a strong argument in areas with limited availability of ‘off-the-shelf components. The crane needs very little maintenance and is a cheap crane to operate & maintain.

As to safety features there is little more to say that JASO crane complies with the European Safety standards as one of the promoters of the European Safety norm EN14439 for moment and overload safety system.

The Hoist mechanism is in the top and also the main switchboard with slew and hoist systems in one sole switchboard. You only need to plug in and go and do not need to interconnect the counterjib where normally you have the hoist mechanism (one board) with top part/ slewing table (slew another board).

For more information on our cranes, please contact us at the address below today!

EUROPA INFRASTRUCTURE TECHNOLOGIES (E.A.) LTD Europa House, 47 Muthithi Road, Opposite Citadel Building, Westlands.

P.O. Box 3177-00600 Nairobi, Kenya. Tel: +254736234714 Email: sales@europainfra.com/amit.r@europainfra.com Website: www.europainfra.com

August 2015

13

COVER STORY

Africa turns to windpower

T

he quest for renewable sources of energy in Africa has reached fever pitch as the world turns to wind as one of the most viable sources of renewable energy. Over the last ten years, power generated from the wind has more than quadrupled. Estimates puts today’s installed wind capacity at about 197 GW representing about 3 percent of global electricity consumption.

For some countries wind has become one of the largest electricity sources. For instance, Denmark is the world leader with 21 percent; Portugal comes second with 18 percent, Spain is third at 16 percent, while Germany is fourth with 9 percent. Despite holding the distinction of being the country with the largest installed wind capacity, wind in China contributed 1.2 percent to overall electricity supply. However in the US, wind's share reached about 2 percent. In Africa though, things have only just started meaning that the scope for growth is significant even as Africa’s GDP maintains an upward trajectory and demand for more energy.

Wind is becoming a major source of electricity around the world and its benefits are enormous. The abundance of wind means that its recent rapid growth is expected to continue. Wind is one of the cheapest sources for new electricity all around the world and its costs are projected to keep falling.

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Additionally, wind power doesn’t pollute at all. Although it is considered one of the safest sources of electricity it also comes with some challenges. The turbines may create a lot of noise. This is the reason why wind farms are not built near residential areas.

People who live near-by often complaint of huge noise that comes from wind turbines.

Some studies have also shown that animals and birds see wind turbines as a threat to their life. Again, wind turbines require them to be dig deep into the earth which could have negative effect on the underground habitats.

It has been observed that wind power can only thrive in countries with coastal areas and hilly places. From an economic standpoint the recent fall in oil prices has been a threat to the development of renewable energy sources because lower fossil fuel prices makes investment in renewable less attractive. Yet these challenges have not deterred African countries from leveraging on wind to boost energy production.

The first wind farms in Africa were established during the 1980’s. In Egypt, a pilot wind farm was developed at Ras Gharib, near the Gulf of Suez, in 1988 which laid the foundation for large scale projects that were later established. Although North Africa notably Egypt and Morrocco is the region with the highest wind power energy production facilities, South and East Africa

August 2015

have in recent years embarked on large projects that will soon close this gap if they have not already.

This lead by South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia and Tanzania.

Kenya An example of the scale of development in wind power in Africa can be seen in Kenya where the construction of the largest wind power farm is underway at a cost of almost US$1bn. The 300 MW Lake Turkana Wind Power Project, which is being developed in the country's North-East, hopes to produce 20% of the country's current installed electricity generating capacity when it comes online in 2016.

The ambitious project achieved full financial close in December 2014, making it the largest private investment in Kenyan history. William Macpherson, who is sub-Saharan African energy analyst at African Energy Consultancy, believes that the project if completed will enhance confidence in investors. The project is part of Kenya’s ambitious project to add 5,000 MW of power onto the grid in the next three years.

The 52-meter blade span windmills will take advantage of high winds present in Turkana. It is expected that the project will boost job creation in the area. Over the 32 months when the hardware will be installed and new roads constructed, the project will employ over 2,500 people on a temporary basis. Once the wind farm is up and running, 200 people will be employed at the site on a full-time basis throughout the operating period. Kenya has experienced major power blackouts that have interrupted businesses that resulted in losses.

According to Kenya Power, the country’s electricity distributor, widespread interruptions of power in 2014 affected 75% of the country. The shift to Wind Power is seen by experts as a way of reducing overreliance in hydro as rain fall patterns increasingly become unreliable in Kenya. The Turkana Wind Power project, is expected to generate $150 million a year in foreign currency savings to Kenya and is set to be a sigh of relieve on houses and businesses that are forced to use diesel generators during power black outs.

To read more and to comment on this story visit

http://www.constructionreviewonline.com

August 2015

15

BATHROOM

Sprucing up your bathroom

G

iving your bathroom a facelift can be quite expensive. A simple change-up in tiles or putting a brand new vanity cabinet can be a costly affair. However, there are many ways to spruce up a bathroom on a simple yet affordable budget. In fact, you will be surprised that a very small adjustment can give your bathroom a completely new face. steps to be taken 1. Clean it A thorough cleaning of your bathroom from top to bottom using vinegar a sponge and some elbow grease could be all it needs to shine. Ensure that every part of the bathroom is cleaned including the counters, the floors, behind the toilet and the toilet itself. Get every inch of that bathroom clean and believe me you will feel better every time you step inside it.

2. Painting A fresh coat of paint, for instance, can go a long way in giving a tired bathroom the facelift it needs, especially when using current color trends. Bold purples, crisp whites and hazy blues are currently trendy. Choose a paint that also includes primer-especially the oil based and not water based- so that you are not forced to do double-duty.

Note that top color trends include white with accents of light gray, and the soft, unpretentious colors of the earth for calm, soothing ambiance. It is of great importance that you involve a professional painter rather than doing the job yourself.

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3. Replace the Mirror This should not be difficult to fix in a bathroom, considering that there is an abundance of mirrors in the market. Ensure that you not only choose a mirror that refl ects you but reflects your personality. Place multiple small mirrors together in a collage or use an oversized ornate one. The beauty of it all is that you can switch the mirror as many times as you like 4. Revitalize the fixtures.

Updating fixtures and flooring is another significant way of giving a worn out bathroom a visual boost, while making the bathroom more fashionable and suitable. In most cases a pedestal sink can still be in good condition after decades of use, but a leaky faucet will need replacement. The style of these two items can entirely change your bathroom.

If you are dealing with a colored tub, you may think of having it resurfaced.

5. Get Organized You may discover that most of your bathroom problems are due to poor use of space. Keep your counter items to a minimum and store all of your other toiletries away.

A great way to keeping things organized is by buying a few inexpensive storage baskets. If you have a little extra money, you might consider investing in pull-out cabinet organizers. This can be very important in getting your bathroom organized and spacious.

August 2015

6. Invest in accessories A new shower curtain or decorative towel rod can spruce up your bathroom instantly. If you’re working on a tight budget, you can try investing your money in a quality shower curtain and opt for a cheap towel rod instead. You can make up for a discrepancy in quality by drawing one’s gaze to a luxurious new curtain, and away from the cheaper items.

A strong foundation for infrastructure success

7. Light up your bathroom To improve lighting, rack lighting is a quick and inexpensive way to add light. But make sure you don’t place the light directly overhead or behind your head when standing at the mirror. This will cast ugly shadows. Attaching period fixtures to the wall flanking the mirror adds charm. Use the maximum wattage on the lamps that the manufacturer allows.

8. Vanity Touch-up If your vanity is looking unappealing, a fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Don’t forget to sand and clean your surface thoroughly before painting. For one, you don't want crud in your finish; and two, you want your finish to stick. Then install new knobs or pulls to give your vanity a whole new look for less than it would cost to replace.

9. Add a potted plant or flower Adding a potted plant or flower to the counter will breathe new life to your bathroom especially if it has a window or skylight. Plants and flowers are readily available you can pick a flower outside and put it on the sink. Even a single bloom can enhance bad looking bathrooms.

10. Artwork Ask anyone and they will tell you that when they think of putting artwork up in their home, they rarely think of the bathroom.

However, a little artwork on the walls can make a big difference on your bathroom. You don’t need to put up a complicated artwork. The bathroom is generally a pretty small space so the artwork should be minimal and simple.

11. Air freshen it Nobody likes a smelly bathroom. You therefore need to ensure that it smells nice. There are many options to help keep your bathroom smelling nice. There are a variety of odor fighting products. They range from sprays, to candles and plug in devices.

12. Change the carpet If you have carpets as the flooring of your bathroom you may want to change it from carpet to tiles and this could make a huge difference.

It will immediately make the room seem larger and the upkeep is also easier. It is easy to clean a bathroom whose flooring is tiles than a carpeted one. This is because you do not have to get the mop out every time your floor tiles need a clean. Using a vacuum cleaner will get rid of hair, dust and talcum powder, so you will not have to reach for the mop as often. Remember that a bathroom is a place that you often visit and is an area that your visitors are guaranteed to see.

Sprucing it up is therefore one major activity that you cannot avoid.

August 2015

Concrete Culverts

Where time-critical installations of culvert crossings are required, then the ROCLA Precast Culvert Base Slab is an ideal solution. It is designed and manufactured to suit the ROCLA Precast Concrete Portal culverts and is profiled to suit these specific types of culvert which complete most projects.

ROCLA is Southern Africa’s leading manufacturer of pre-cast concrete products for infrastructure, including pipes, culverts, manholes, roadside furniture, retaining walls, stock troughs, poles and other related products.

Tel: 011 670 7600 | www.rocla.co.za

Rocla is a subsidiary of ISG, a leading supplier of innovative infrastructure products to the construction and mining markets in Southern Africa.

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BATHROOM Customised for the mobility impaired and elderly

Geberit

Geberit’s concealed cistern for wall hung toilets, the AquaClean shower toilet and seats, slim basin wastes and electronic taps are ideal solutions for the mobility impaired and elderly

Geberit Aquaclean Shower toilet range, cleans with water.

The AquaClean 8000plus offers the user many functions: It has an adjustable temperature setting for its warm water spray and warm air dryer functions, this product also extracts unpleasant odours, eliminating the need for toilet paper and air fresheners, therefore making an experience in the bathroom more dignified by allowing many persons with impaired mobility to use the toilet unassisted. The remote control has a memory function that can be pre programmed for up to 4 persons and can be placed on the wall next to the WC. The AquaClean is also available as a replacement seat for standard shaped toilets and offers the same advantage of cleaning with water. Whilst the AquaClean 8000plus is our current top of the range product, offering the user many features, there are other products in the Geberit AquaClean range which offer limited additional features to the core function of cleaning with water.

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Geberit Concealed Cisterns These are the perfect solution for creating a barrier free bathroom. The cistern gives you the option of adjusting the height of the wall hung toilet pan, upon installation. The only exposed part being the actuator plate, which is large enough and easily accessable, allowing for ease of flushing. Alternatively, the flush plate can be blanked off and a pneumatic flush plate placed elsewhere in the bathroom which may be more convenient and more easily accessable for the user. The Geberit Concealed Cistern is the ideal choice for creating much needed space and accessibility, whilst being more hygienic and aesthetically pleasing too.

Geberit Pneumatic remote flush actuator can be placed on the side wall for easy access when needing to flush and features either a dualflush or single flush option. Our concealed cisterns also allows for the flush button to be integrated into the support rail, making the flushing even easier.

The Geberit Hytronic Tap range: These electronic taps allows for touch-free hand washing.

With our different models, we offer a variety of options, which ranges from wall mounted to pillar mounted models, with short or long outlets, catering for the many needs of the user. The mixer temperature can also be pre-set externally or internally, depending on the need.

Geberit concealed washbasin traps: The perfectly designed solution which is ideally suited for those in wheelchairs as it is slim with minimal obstruction under the basin. The trap is cleverly hidden in the wall behind a small cover.

August 2015

USED EQUIPMENT

6 Tips to help you import used equipment

I

By Wolfgang Bühn n his book “The World Is Flat” the American author Thomas L. Friedman describes the big changes caused by globalization and the visibility of things through the Internet. The world is flat means to him: Everyone can see everything and everywhere. The new technologies make it possible to access all information in any place in the world at any time. Is the world really flat and is all information accessible for everyone at any time?

The answer is Yes and No. As a buyer of used machinery or trucks you may have already experienced it. You can find various databases where used equipment is listed for sale. The age, the working hours, the mileage and the features of a truck or crane are available. The supplier gives a description of the goods and has in many cases listed a sales price. That is the flat part of our new world. At the point when you go deeper in a specific equipment offer you will sooner or later come to the bumpy part of the world.

On one hand all information is available through the Internet. On the other hand, there is very limited control what content is added to the World Wide Web. Of course there is a good chance to find quality equipment for reasonable pricing. A few machinery websites such as Machinerytrader or Machineryzone check the suppliers before they can list any machine 20

or truck. But apart from these there is big gray area.

Many listings in machinery websites are far away from being true. Many listed equipment does not exist, many machines are not in thelocation that is listed and others have a very optimistic description of condition. What now if you intend to purchase secondhand machines and the suppliers in your place haven’t the right piece? Buying new is maybe too expensive.

Traveling thousands of miles to see a single machine or two is not reasonable. How can you be on the safe side when importing goods?

Determing your needs First of all it is recommended having a clear idea what machine or truck you need. What is the correct size and weight; what features are essential?

Service support Second important point is: Where is the next available store for parts and service? Many standard parts you can buy aftermarket, the so-called non-OEM parts. But for specific spare parts you will need an OEM supplier. When the machine has problems with the hydraulic system adjustments or with an electronic component you will need to call a service provider that knows your machine very well and is equipped with the necessary tools for August 2015

VERMEER HELPS MEET

YOUR TOUGHEST PIPELINE CHALLENGES.

THIS IS WHERE THE NAME ON THE MACHINE MATTERS MOST. Whether you’re facing Equipment Suppliers (Pty) Ltd. Southern Africa

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cross-country installations or long crossing, Vermeer and our global dealer network will be right beside you.

We know the conditions you face are demanding — that’s why we make sure our equipment is up to the task.

From heavy-duty trenchers to maxi-sized horizontal directional drills, wherever the jobsite, we’ll be ready.

So when it’s tough going out there, look to Vermeer — the trusted name for proven equipment and reliable support.

PROTON PARK, PROTON STREET (OFF OSSEWA ST), CHLOORKOP EXT.65, GAUTENG, SOUTH AFRICA

Vermeer, the Vermeer logo and Equipped to Do More. are trademarks of Vermeer Manufacturing Company in the U.S. and/or other countries. © 2014 Vermeer Corporation and Equipment Suppliers (Pty) Ltd. Southern Africa. All Rights Reserved.

NEW, PURPOSE-BUILT PREMISES EARLY 2015!

AFRICA’S PREMIER CONSTRUCTION AND MINING TRADE FAIR

R !

E FO ANC RATIONS R T N E IST FREEINE REG / ONL m/en ca.co tion i r f a tra .bc wwwors/regis visit Once you have a clear idea about the kind and size of equipment you need to check your budget

checking and adjusting these components.

How much do you need Once you have a clear idea about the kind and size of equipment you need to check your budget and probably you need to talk to your bank for financing. If that point is solved you can start looking for machines or trucks.

Sourcing But where to look for it? The author has listed a selection of websites for used equipment at www.used-equipment.de. There are other sources, but from our experience the listed sites have a higher probability to have added only existing equipment.

International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines and Construction Vehicles.

WWW.BCAFRICA.COM

MMI/BCA/Quirk/CEN

22

the quality of machinery? How can you gain information about the reliability and reputation of a supplier? It would be costly to send your own technician to Europe, to China or to the Emirates to check a machine. Apart from the fact that you would need a visa in many cases it would be time-consuming and traveling is costly even with budget flights not really cheap.

It would be more reasonable hiring a mechanic of a local workshop from a dealer of your preferred brand. And, a Putzmeister or Sanny technician should be able to check any concrete pump. A Komatsu or Hitachi technician should be able to check any

Meeting the seller Now it is time to get in direct contact with the supplier. Ask him for all equipment details, related components such as shovels or excavator buckets. Ask for necessary repairs and when the last service was done.

Have the seller to send you a legible picture of the serial number plate. For a machine that is in his property he will not hesitate sending it straight away. Be carefully if a deal appears to be very good. The world is flat means: everyone can compare prices. If a machine is offered 20% below the normal market price or even cheaper there must be somethin wrong. Avoid getting involved in trading with stolen equipment.

excavator or wheel loader.

Inspection What would be the best way to verify

importing of equipment with extended

But the better way is probably using a service provider that is specialized in used machinery inspections. Some companies around the world provide such service. In our experience the cost for a single machine inspection is somewhere between 600-1.000 USD. If the machine is in a remote area the cost might be higher. With an inspection report in your hand you will be able to discuss with the machine supplier a price discount or repairs. Often the negotiated amount will extend the cost of the inspection. In the worst case, if machine is in bad condition you will probably not buy it. But the amount you paid to the inspectors will protect you against follow-up cost.

August 2015

WATER PUMPS

Technicians install a submersible water pump

Which pump for the job?

W

ater pumps are used in various situations but mostly to supply water to industrial or commercial establishments, hospitals, houses, schools amongst others. They can also be used to supply and transport various forms of liquid like chemicals depending on the capacity of the pump. Pumps are also used by people living in the rural set up to supply water from wells, water tanks, and sprinkle liquid fertilizers and also water their crops.

Water pumps are nowadays popularly classified as being either surface pumps or submersible pumps. Submersible pumps can be a replacement for many surface pumps but the reverse is not possible. Surface pumps suffer a great deal of losses and as a result the overall efficiency of such pumps is less compared to that with the submersible pumps. The overall efficiency of submersible pumps is higher in the range of 40 to 55 %.

Submersible pumps Submersible pumps operate in clear as well as saline waters depending upon the material used in its construction.

Pumps with AISI 304 material are mostly preferred for demanding conditions where corrosion resistance is an important factor. Here one of the costliest stainless steels is required to do the job. Corrosive or flammable liquids need careful handling while being displaced. Some pumps

must move very hot or abrasive materials and operate without maintenance for extended periods of time. Valve design and material is essential to longevity of these types of pumps.

For this reason, manufacturers of pumps have abandoned the traditional materials that were used to build these types of pumps and are now using pumps built from engineering composites. Structural graphite pump construction offers high strength and fully corrosion resistant operation in corrosive environments.

Furthermore, submersible water pumps are available in radial flow as well as mixed flow type impellers. Mixed flow type of water pumps are installed where the discharge required is more. Centrifugal pumps are radial flow devices. A centrifugal water pump uses a rotating impeller to move water into the pump and pressurize the discharge flow. The rotational energy typically comes from an engine or electric motor.

They come in many different models and can transfer fluids with high efficiency over a wide range of flows and pressures. These pumps can be used for heating, distribution of artificial fertilizers, irrigation and drainage, transport of slightly contaminated thin liquids and for drainage and fresh water. The demand for centrifugal water pumps is supported by their growing utilization in both industrial and non-industrial segments, with industrial

August 2015

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segment continuing to dominate and oil & gas being the largest end user industry.

Intelligent Pumps Another trend expected is the use of intelligent pump systems. These are pumps with variable speed drives

Life Cycle Cost The Global Life Cycle Cost of the products and solutions should be considered when sourcing for water pumps.

Global Life Cycle Cost: Purchasing cost + Energy Cost + Maintenance cost + recycling cost. Maintenance, breakdown and electricity costs are by far the biggest costs when owning a pump. Therefore purchasing the right pump for the application is a very important decision that a client should take into consideration before getting one.

Purchase cost should range from 5-8% of the total cost of ownership of a pump.

Trends A major trend is the rise of the middle class in so many countries, so consumer needs are evolving toward more processed food, better utility availability (water & electricity), improved health care and higher use of transportation equipment. It means there are investments put into infrastructure to meet these needs, so there is room for more innovation and better quality of pumps being produced by manufacturers. They are also developing energy-efficient products which will cut down the operational costs by the end user of these pumps.

intergraded with smart pumps and centralized control systems that enable remote operation in the water and waste water industry.

Massive industrialization and urbanization globally is set to increase the demand for water pumps now and in the future. According to Population Action International, by 2025 more than 2.8 billion of global population in 48 countries is expected to face water scarcity. Out of these 48 countries, about 40 are from West Asia, North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Governments in such regions are thus making heavy investments in the reuse and recycling of water by the use of water pumps.

The process manufacturing market is expected to remain the largest user of pump products due to the wide range of applications and significant fluid handling requirements in many of these industries. Use of turbine pumps is also projected to increase from use in water pumping and sewage applications. The major advantage of the turbine water pump is its low revolutions per minute, or RPM, with a high and constant head. This feature enables the use of these pumps for the continuous pumping of water from deep wells.

Davis & Shirtliff is the region’s largest water & energy equipment supplier with an unmatched product range, a wide network of branches and stockists, extensive stocks, full service support and ISO 9001:2008 certification.

Contact the Professionals for the best water and energy management solutions available!

www.davisandshirtliff.com 24

August 2015

Apex Steel When You Don’t Want to Compromise on Strength

I

t has recently emerged that Uganda has banned the use of twisted steel bars in construction over inferior reinforced concrete strength, raising questions over

the use of the bars in Kenya. Kenya has in the recent past experienced a string of building collapses thus, raising questions on the use of sub-par building materials. The use of twisted bars started around the middle of the 20th century but by the 1980s and early 1990s most of

described as a New Generation High Strength Steel having superior qualities such as better weldability, increased ductility and bend ability, anti-corrosive properties, better and more consistent elongation. These properties meet the highest internationally recognized standards.

In addition to that Apex Steel gives you the comfort of assurance by branding ‘APEX TMX’ on each meter

the developed nations had already ceased their use due

of the steel, to be confident in the quality guaranteed.

to these inadequacies preferring the deformed bars.

The above qualities have built a tremendemous amount

Deformed bars have ridges, projections or ribs on their

of credibility in the quality of steel produced by Apex

surface to provide better anchoring for concrete.

Steel. Consequently many engineers, contractors and

Steel manufacturers in Kenya produce both twisted and deformed steel bars with the only requirement from the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) being they have a strength of atleast 460N/m2. Apex Steel has always been in the forefront in production of quality steel. This can be traced back in 2007 when Apex Steel became the first

architects have been using steel from Apex as their ideal choice in their projects. This is evident in a lot of iconic projects in Kenya that stand firm on steel from Apex Steel. Some of these structures include Sankara Hotel, Kempinski Villa Rosa Hotel, Delta Towers, Riverside

steel manufacturer in Kenya to manufacture deformed

Park, Sameer Business Park, Nairobi-Namanga highway,

bars. Not only has Apex been a pioneer in manufacture

Nothern bypass, Eastern bypass and the iconic Thika

of deformed bars in kenya but also took a step further by

superhighway just to mention a few.

exceeding KEBS requirements to produce deformed bars of higher strength of 500N/m2.

The deformed bar dubbed ‘APEX TMX’ can be

To read more and to comment on this story visit

http://www.constructionreviewonline.com

August 2015

25

MECHANICALLY STABILISED EARTH (MSE)

G e n u i n e competition

is good for the

consumer Imitators

NOT

TERRA FORCE

Find your nearest supplier www.terraforce.com

Tel: 021 465 1907 26

Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital, Dubai:Terraforce's blocks resplendent in a retaining wall functionality

The Retaining wall with a healing effect Terraforce South Africa’s hollow core concrete blocks were utilised to create a mechanically stablised earth feature in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Construction Review explores how this ‘feat’ was achieved.

I

t’s just hard to ignore the hollow core, plant friendly concrete retaining wall system at the recently unveiled Al Jalila Children’s Specialty Hospital in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Resplendent in its retaining earth functionality, the hollowcore design of the interlocking blocks allows plants to become a part of the ‘green’ wall.

Ultimately, a sustainable, yet durable green wall has been created through water wise plants and a good irrigation system.

Departure from the ‘norm’ The most obvious observation is that the retaining wall design is a unique variation from the norm. Terraforce’swall design innovative façade provides a plant supportive pocket that could also accommodate an efficient, easy maintenance dripper irrigation system. Out of these pockets, water-wise plants will eventually drape over the side of Construction meets healing The Al Jalil Children’s Specialty Hospital is an initiative of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai. Through combining innovative aspects of design and construction, its scope goes beyond serving children.

the block, softening the near vertical concrete surface with curtains of greenery.

Moreover, the total area, nearly half has been dedicated for gardens and landscaping including a 'healing garden' with bright flowering shrubs, herbs and medicinal plants.

The use of natural light, greenery and healing landscape are aimed at offering a high level of indoor air quality, reducing noise and creating a pleasant environment.

Breathtaking The retaining wall is so breathtaking that Cape Town based founder of Terraforce, Holger Rust, was short of words to capture his fascination when he visited the site in February 2015. “This must be the most efficient irrigation system ever.

To read more and to comment on this story visit

http://www.constructionreviewonline.com

Says Al Maidoor, Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA): “The hospital will be the first-of-its-kind facility in the region offering super-specialty and multi-spectrum pediatric care. It will provide pediatric services from newborns to 16 year olds and will offer all necessary pediatric services under one roof for the children of the UAE and the region.�

August 2015

A Boon to Road Authorities in Africa The use of Mechanically Stabilised Earth (MSE) is reducing costs of motorway infrastructure in Africa.

Construction Review finds out how from Reinforced Earth (Pty) Ltd, South Africa

A

frican road authorities are benefitting from the use of(MSE) in major construction projects in Africa for applications where, traditionally, concrete options have been dominant.

Through information from Reinforced Earth South Africa Construction Review examines the material. Formed in 1975, Reinforced Earth (Pty) Ltd is part of Group Terre Armee International which operates throughout the world. There are Reinforced Earth® MSE structures in 24 African countries.

The invention Although the combination of earth and reinforcements is found in nature and in materials and structures (straw in bricks, parts of the Great Wall of China), modern day MSE was invented by French Architect and engineer Henri Vidal some 50 years ago.

He called this new material Terre Armee® in French or Reinforced Earth® in English.

Composite material MSE is the generic name for a composite material comprising a frictional backfill, reinforcements and generally an external cladding.

Advantages The demand for cost effective construction systems for mega civil engineering projects has highlighted the significance of MSE. Below some of the most important advantages are listed.

1. Flexible properties Whereas chemically stabilised earth produces a rigid structure, mechanically stabilized earth produces a flexible structure.

With this feature, it has much the same properties as earth itself and finds application wherever heavy earth moving is involved – roads, railways, bridges, dams, reservoirs, mines, land development, airports, ports and military.

2. Beyond battered side slopes What is worth noting is that earth embankments are no longer limited to

battered side slopes. They may be vertical, tired or sloped. If frictional backfill is used and reinforcements are placed correctly in the fill then the external faces may be vertical, sloped or tiered. Such embankments would be clad with elements which are designed to accept local earth loads and protect the embankment from external forces while not hindering the flexibility of the embankment 3. Dealing with limited space Through utilising MSE approach embankments there is no need for retaining walls in conditions of limited space. This is more relevant in conditions where foundations are poor and rigid retaining walls require special foundation improvement.

4. High load bearing capacity Furthermore, the MSE approach embankment can be designed to accept high loads such as those imparted on to it from bridge decks.

In this case concrete abutments may be eliminated.

5. Faster construction Compared to concrete and similar solutions, it takes a shorter time to erect an MSE approach embankment. This is because the pacing item is generally the placement and compaction of the backfill which should not be influenced in any significant way by the placing of the reinforcements and the cladding.

6. Specifications and standards The original concept of MSE is that of a composite material consisting of frictional fill, flexible reinforcements and a flexible cladding.

In order to protect Road Authorities local national generic specifications for MSE should ensure that only cost effective state of the art sustainable MSE solutions which comply with recognized International norms are tendered.Care should be taken when specifying MSE for a particular project.

There are differences in various MSE systems for instance: Differences between MSE with discrete panel cladding and block wall systems 1.

Segmental concrete panel cladding

August 2015

Figure 1: MSE with segmental concrete panel cladding

Each panel is positively attached to the reinforcements. The panels are separated one from the other with joints and pads, which absorb vertical settlement and allow the panels to “hang off” the soil reinforcement.

The first row of cladding elements is placed on a weak mix concrete levelling course which does not inhibit differential settlement.

The pressure on the foundation beneath the cladding elements is consequently less than that beneath the earth fill behind the cladding.

Should there be any internal or foundation settlement of the MSE then the panels, which are positively attached to the reinforcements, will settle with the fill and maintain their integrity as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Soil Settlement in MSE Structures

When properly constructed, MSE structures with segmental concrete panels have little risk of facing bulging or deformation due to water.

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27

TERMITE CONTROL

A contractor’s worst nightmare

T

ermites are a contractor’s worst nightmare. This group of eusocial insects are classified at the taxonomic rank of order isopteran; they feed on dead plants and trees, as well as dead parts of living trees. This includes wood in the soil.

A termite’s mouth is able to tear pieces of woody material. The damage done by termites is not immediately visible to the building will provide longer and warranted naked eye, because they rarely emerge from protection to the entire structure at a the soil in the form of mud tubes, or food reasonable cost. Building contractors that sources through which they are tunneling. take shortcuts by not doing soil treatments Termites are grouped as subterranean, prior to building aren’t doing themselves dry wood and damp wood based on their any favours as they will not be able to drill habitation. Since the activity of dry wood everywhere during the construction process. and damp wood termites is very confined, it This is why it is important that during is only the subterranean species of termites which are more prevalent and cause severe construction you should consider using concrete for the foundations and leave a damage to our property.

For a new building construction it is best ventilation space between the soil and wood to get the soil treated while the foundations to prevent termite activity. One should also cover are being laid, HPFC as a continuous and11:28 uniform RentokilTermite H ad 5/20/15 AM Page 1 exposed wood surfaces with a sealant C M Y shelves CM MY termiticidal barrier between the soil and or metal barrier. House foundations,

and even books are all possible feeding sites for termites.

Termites can cause major structural damage to human dwellings, so regardless of whether you are thinking of installing a baiting system or a liquid termite treatment, remember that using the right combination of treatments in the right concentration from reputable providers will allow for a 5 year guarantee. For the walls, generally a waterbased termiticides is used; however, infested and fixed wood is treated with oil-based termiticides. If access to concealed areas is denied the treatment may fail to provide the desired results, which means termites have access to the false ceiling, loft, plumbing duct, electrical shaft, and unused/ closed room.

To read more and to comment on this story visit

http://www.constructionreviewonline.com

CY CMY

K

Just because you can’t see termites doesn’t mean they aren’t there.

Rentokil has the expertise to identify conditions favourable to a termite infestatation and suggest steps to minimise those conditions.

For a free inspection call 0800 736 86545 or visit www.rentokil.co.za 28

Composite

August 2015

Manufactured & Marketed by:

PRIME HITECH ENGINEERING LTD

Corporate Office : Prime Tower, 287-288, Udyog Vihar, Phase-II, Gurgaon-122 016 (India) Tel.: +91 124 4111999 (30 Lines), 6656999 (30 Lines), FAX : +91 124 4871698 99 August 2015 Email : phel@prime-phel.com, Web: www.prime-phel.com

29

LOOKING BEYOND TOMORROW

ROOFTILE MACHINES

Rooftile machines take advantage of concrete’s green credentials A range of concrete rooftile machines developed specifically for start-up businesses and climatic and operating conditions in Africa is available from Pan Mixers South Africa (PMSA). These machines also take advantage of the fact that concrete roof tiles are a far more environmentally-friendly product than clay roof tiles.

I

ndependent research from the Öko-Institut Freiburg (Ecological Institute) in Germany places concrete roof tiles well ahead of clay roof tiles in the categories of greenhouse effect, acidification potential, eutrophication, photo-oxidation and fine dust.

These important facts led to PMSA entering into a partnership with world-leading Swedish roof-tile expert ABECE to distribute its equipment in Africa.

“The emphasis on infrastructure development in Africa, particularly in terms of government-funded projects, means that we foresee tremendous growth opportunities here,” ABECE Area Manager Fredrik Toftemo comments.

“Working closely with an established partner such as PMSA allows us to remain at the forefront of this market,” Toftemo adds. PMSA Marketing and Sales Manager Quintin Booysen highlights that the two companies have been collaborating successfully since 2005, and have worked on fully automated roof-tile plants in South Africa with capacities of up to 140 tiles a minute.

PMSA is the largest supplier of concrete brick, block and paving manufacturing machinery and technology on the continent. It recently displayed ABECE equipment at its stand at Totally Concrete 2015 at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg in mid-May. Concrete roof tiles versus clay roof tiles (based on a roof area of 160m2, the average roof size in Germany)

Concrete roof tiles Clay roof tiles Greenhouse effect 1.542kg 3.404kg Energy 16.090MJ 55.964MJ Acid rain 4.5kg 9.4kg Over-fertilisation 0.49kg 1.13kg Fine dust (PM10 equivalent) 4.49kg 9.97kg Source: Öko-Institut Freiburg (Ecological Institute), Germany

30

“Long-term strategic partnerships such as the one we have established with ABECE allows us to stay ahead of market trends.

“It also gives us the added flexibility to able to respond proactively to specific customer requirements, as well as providing robust and user-friendly equipment that can withstand the harsh operating conditions in Africa,” Booysen emphasises.

The SPS semi-automatic extruder can manufacture up to 5 000 concrete tiles in a nine-hour shift, depending on the specific plant configuration.This equates to about ten tiles a minute. The main benefits of this extruder are that it is easy to install, operate and maintain, which are important considerations in remote project sites in Africa.

The SPS extruder features a heavy-duty design that incorporates high-quality material and components in its manufacture. It has a 1.5kW motor power roller and a 5.5kW hydraulic power pack for the pusher movement. A standalone depalleter is also available, as well as ridge and trim tile manufacturing equipment.

Toftemo explains that concrete is fed from a conveyor into the concrete hopper above the slipper and roller unit.

Aluminium pallets are placed manually on the support rails that guide the pallets through the extruder. A hydraulic cylinder pushes the pallets through the release oil spray system and the making head in order to shape the concrete tile.

Thereafter theautomaticknife unit cuts and shapes the tile. This knife unit is kept clean by a water-spray system. The manufacturing process only requires three to five labourers, depending on the level of automation and the skills level of the staff. “Combined with the fact that concrete roof tiles are such an eco-friendly product, the SPS extruder is the ideal machine for African conditions,” Booysen concludes.

August 2015

VOID FORMERS AND PILE CASINGS Development The Superlite Void Former has been developed to provide the South African construction industry with a low cost, lightweight and robust cell former. They are designed to meet the stringent performance requirements imposed by local design and on-site conditions. They are spirally locked, seamed and swaged for maximum strength and resist the full hydrostatic pressure of concrete and all loads associated with the compaction or vibration of concrete during placing.

Product Characteristics Superlite cell formers are available in uncoated or galvanised mild steel. Standard material thicknesses are 0,6; 0,8; 1,0 and 1,2 mm but other thicknesses can be catered for if the need arises. The standard maximum length of the cell former is 6 m, but special longer lengths are available on request. Where extra long lengths are required, the cell formers may be supplied in split lengths and fitted with a system of spigot and socket joining collars to enable the contractor to achieve any length that may be required.

Stop ends can be provided if required to prevent the ingress of concrete, if the cell is to be used as a void former. Timber braces can be provided to minimise the risk of distortion during transport action especially where long distances are involved.

Table 1 Standard Diameters and Masses Diameter Internal

0,60 Mass

0,80 Mass

1,00 Mass

1,20 Mass

220

4.17

5.55

6.95

8.34

245

4.64

6.19

7.74

9.29

270

5.12

6.82

8.52

10.23

300

5.69

7.57

9.47

11.37

313

5.93

7.91

9.88

11.86

325

6.16

8.20

10.26

12.32

330

6.25

8.34

10.42

12.50

355

6.73

8.97

11.21

13.45

378

7.16

9.54

11.93

14.33

406

7.69

10.25

12.82

15.38

420

7.96

10.60

13.26

15.92

450

8.52

11.37

14.21

17.05

480

9.09

12.12

15.16

18.19

500

9.48

12.62

15.79

18.95

508

9.62

12.83

16.04

19.25

550

10.42

13.89

17.37

20.84

560

10.59

14.12

17.65

21.18

600

11.37

15.16

18.94

22.73

610

11.56

15.41

19.26

23.11

635

12.03

16.04

20.05

24.06

660

12.50

16.67

20.84

25.01

685

12.98

17.30

21.63

25.95

711

13.47

17.96

22.45

26.94

750

14.21

18.94

23.68

28.42

812

20.51

25.64

30.76

864

21.82

27.28

32.74

915

23.11

28.89

34.67 36.56

965

24.37

30.47

1000

25.26

31.57

37.89

1016

25.66

32.08

38.49

1066

26.93

33.66

40.39

1118

35.30

42.36

1219

38.49

1320

46.19 50.01

Note: All void cells below the orange line in the various material thicknesses must have timber cross braces.

Address. 131 Anvil Road, Isando, South Africa Tel. +27 11 974 8511 | Fax. +27 11 974 8510 E-mail. areddy@armco.co.za | mail@armco.co.za Web. www.armco.co.za

WORLD BANK

The World Bank's new headquarters is conspicuous by its majestic presence

New home for the World Bank in Ghana

T

By Thunile Nkosi he World Bank is situated on Independence Avenue in the Ridge suburb of Accra, Ghana. The project was a combination of Co-Arc International, OOA, ARUP’s design concept and development, where the whole design team worked together to optimize solutions.

This approach was based on their regional experience of green buildings in similar climatic conditions and in an African context.

Design Innovation Designed to accommodate two different entities within the World Bank Group, the offices reflect the culture of the global group within a local context, whereby a shading screen wall over the four-storey structure is detailed to form a contemporary interpretation of traditional Ghanaian Kente Weaving culture, thus adding cultural and regional expression to environmental aspects of design.

The development is built in an urban context on a tropical climate, where an environmentally friendly design was incorporated with the use of proximity lighting, solar water heating, recycled material in elements such as carpets and recycled water treated for flushing toilets and irrigations. The approach to green building was sustained when it comes to this development, as evidenced in theinnovative use of existing bricks from demolished

houses were used to build the children’s playground, while existing trees were also protected. The use of local timber decking as shading and screen mimics the rich flavor of the local architecture, whereby climatic conditions will be reduced through passive means. The facility enables the functioning of a global organisation by providing state of the art potential for communication in IT and conferencing.

Positioned with modern system furniture, the pliant office environment provides a contemporary working environment, were both permanent missions and visiting missions are accommodated.

Challenge Faced “The building is for a world class office facility, but built with due consideration of locally available construction technologies.Procurement challenges related to West Africa were faced along with the need to meet the developmental and environmental policies of the World Bank Group” said Martin Orthner the Managing Director for OOA and the local architects for the development.

Landscape.

The shape and form of the building has been specifically designed to optimize the use of natural systems.

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KEIM MINERAL PAINTS

WORLDWIDE

UNSURPASSED LIFESPAN – NATURALLY MINERAL… ….THE ONLY WAY TO PROTECT ! www.keimpaints.co.za RSA-OFFICE: 16 CABERNET ROAD KUILSRIVER – CAPE TOWN TEL: (+27) 21 905 8985 FAX: (+27) 86 553 8408 32

GHANA OFFICE: 158A LAKESIDE ESTATES ASHALEY BOTWE – ACCRA TEL: (+233) 244 66 1084 August 2015

W

e are no longer creating mere homes. We are creating worlds, veritable microcosms resplendent with functionality and convenience, monuments to Man’s inborn desire to be the master of his surroundings. Much like an artist poring with furrowed brow over a blank canvas, we tackle each new construction project with an eye on creating something that is beautiful as well as functional, applying brushstrokes of technology in order to paint the complete picture: security, convenience, aesthetics.

Gate automation offers the most colourful and varied pallet in this arena, complementing homes and businesses with regards to security, with regards to functionality and with regards to aesthetics.

Centurion Systems has been manufacturing reliable and feature-rich access automation products for the past three decades, and has more than earned its reputation as South Africa’s foremost provider of hi-tech automated security solutions. The company’s wide range of products for controlling the access of people and vehicles into domestic, industrial and commercial properties has seen widespread popularity and nowadays the name ‘CENTURION’ is instantly associated with the feisty green gate motors automating homes and businesses around South Africa and the world (green being the company’s corporate colour and, following its recent branching out into the world of solar, an integral part of its design philosophy).

During the month of May, CENTURION successfully launched its two brand new swing gate motors for domestic and lightindustrial applications – the VERT-X and the VANTAGE – in a series of roadshows that saw installers of security equipment being introduced to what is undoubtedly the future of gate automation.

These operators boast tough-as-nails aluminium construction throughout, slim-line looks for a wholly unobtrusive installation as well as the incredible functionality – including multiple operating profiles, adjustable speed and advanced diagnostics, all via a userfriendly LCD interface – that has made CENTURION a household name.

According to Centurion Systems’ Marketing and Sales Director, Richard Rohman, ‘both products are leading edge in terms of their looks, which is becoming a critical requirement in the design of gate motors.

To read more and to comment on this story visit

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August 2015

33

PM+CDC ASSOCIATES

PM+CDC Associates

P

By Thunile Nkosi M+CDC Associates is a consortium of professionals which started its operations in 1997 with a single point for providing services that include, architecture and interior design, engineering, project management and quantity surveying . Situated in Lagos, Nigeria, PM+CD Associates is led by two directors namely Arc Chike Iroegbunam and Arc Chiedu Edozie.

PM+CDC started its operation in an office measuring about 70msq with only 3 staff members compared to now.

The firm is one of the foremost design and consultancy firms in Ngieria with over a dozen professionals delivering multi-disciplinary services and innovative solutions to complex challenges across the built and natural environment.

“The scope of our services ranges from feasibility and project conception to project execution and management,” said the directors.

Objectives PM+CDC Associates has been a premier provider of building and interior design consultancy with a client base of over a dozen different banks and a number of executed projects within the period of seven years.

“We as PM+CDC , provide our clients with an enthusiastic and efficient team on their projects, where we aim to produce high quality building designs and ensure execution of the same within agreed cost budgets. We also ensure that building projects are competitively priced and managed and we actively engage the development of the project with various funding sources,” said Arc Chike and Arc Chiedu.

Professional Development PM+CDC Associates has a strong mentorship program culminating in professional examination in respective professional bodies, where internships for undergraduates 34

are offered. “We also provide sponsorship for furthering educational qualifications both in Nigeria and abroad,”adds the directors. With only 18 years in existence in the industry, PM+CDC Associates has managed to found two subsidiaries of the firm, these are the Orangeline Limited which is a development and design company and also Frameworks Integrated Services Ltd which operates as a management, services and maintenance company.

Challenges Faced All architectural firms share one common factor, which is working on a tight budget for a project, most clients seem not to understand the importance of thermal comfort in a building which might prevent long term defects.

“The lack of a strong local manufacturing base and inability to detail bespoke building solutions, lack of robust local pallet to choose from for specification is a challenge when a building is being constructed. Also the limitation in experimental room comes as a challenge, laments the Directors.

Projects Completed From a 70msq office to approximately 250msq office which is now a more efficient practice participating in interesting and exciting work. With only 18 years with the industry, PM+CDC has certainly grown to a point where they manage to successfully complete projects like the Liberty Bank, The Mandarin and many others in Nigeria.

“As the founder and Principal Director for PM+CDC Associates, I have overseen the firm’s growth and development to become the foremost provider of consultancy and design-build services to the banking sector in addition to developing a wide client base which includes telecoms, private residential schemes, the catholic church and private developers”. Concludes Arc Chike Irobegbunam.

August 2015

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CRANES FOR WEST AFRICAN CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS

State-of-the-art crane technology will contribute to significant project cost reduction and high productivity.

Towering above the rest More cutting edge lifting ‘monsters’ will be on construction sites in most West African countries in coming years, of course, as long as projects continue flowing.

T

he West African construction sector is not unique: more or less resonating with developments in other regions on the continent, it faces a mammoth

Features

of

‘monsters’

likely

to

tick

preference boxes What kind of ‘monsters’ are we likely to see towering

infrastructure backlog, which, in most instances, would

above all on construction sites in the coming years, hoping

require complex interventions to be thoroughly addressed.

that West African infrastructure developments continue

And, for the most part, this would entail the use of

gaining traction at the current rate?

complex technologies like cranes to lift heavy construction

Construction Review conducted site visits and

materials. Reading into the increasing attendance of high

contacted project managers involved in prominent projects

profile annual exhibitions like Water Africa and West

throughout South Africa where crane technology is being

African Mining and Power Exhibition (WAMPEX),

utilised (or was) in lifting applications. In the process,

which Construction Review attende, it is palpable that

it singled out a few stimulating product features which

crane technology suppliers from all over the world would

are likely to be amongst Engineering, Procurement and

like their products to be amongst the most preferred during

Construction Management (EPCM’s) priority:

project procurement processes.

36

August 2015

1.

Water desludging bridge cranes odd or the way to go?

A South African crane manufacturer designed, manufactured, installed a water-desludging crane bridge crane for a Johannesburg water utility, Rand Water’s Zuikerbosch reticulation plant, in Vereeniging, Gauteng, late 2014. The crane system installed at the Vaal river catchment area scours 10,000sqm of the river bed to remove the sludge layer.

Two-hundred-million litres of water flows through the system daily, with 16-million litres of that being sludge, which is pumped out by the bridges.Something on these lines had never been seen before. So far, arguably, this is Africa’s first. It’s possible this will be utilised in West Africa in coming months perchance.

4.

Incredibly lower maintenance costs

You wouldn’t like to see the crane you have rented or bought to stall when work is at its peak, would you?

A South African company that has just delivered a turnkey crane package to a project in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia mentions new technologies that it

AFRICA’S PREMIER CONSTRUCTION AND MINING TRADE FAIR

foresees driving down product maintenance costs over useful life. This is the use of liveaxle drives in place of ring-gear designs, the introduction of adapted V-belt technology, the use of 36B case-hardened material on most pinions, in addition, hoists are also

OR CE F NS! TRANSTRATIO N E I FREEINE REG /en/ ONL a.comion c i r f trat .bca wwwors/regis t i s i v

usually fitted with high tensile-strength 2.

Enhanced modular adaptabilityand productivity The Clainwilliam Dam project, the second largest dam construction project (after De Hoop Dam), which South Africa’s Department of Water and Sanitation carried out, accentuated the load handling efficiency of modular tower cranes. The project’s brief was to increase the dam’s capacity by raising its wall and modular crane technology was used to pour concrete.

Conspicuous in the project was the use of standard hoists as a platform to increase elevation by accommodating lifts higher (as high as 15-metre) than the average (6.8 metres). From a functional and productivity perspective, modular crane designs are said to have saved time and drives down costs, on the word of the project manager involved. The greater modular adaptability and productivity could also be seen in tower cranes, which were on use at the recently completed Portside Towers in Cape Town.

Their wide radius and height proved handy in carrying weight in constrained environments.

3.

More robust, reliable and rugged There is a gradual acceptance in the global engineering fraternity about the long term advantages both from a cost and convenient perspective of installing robust, durable cranes over delicate machines that are more likely to fail. Add this to innovative drive and control technology, the result is a good performance.

ropes.

Competitive edge No one has a crystal ball to foretell the future, but, certainly, cranes that demonstrate the following qualities will have the edge as products of first resort: high quality, lower maintenance costs, safety, over and above lower overall useful lifetime costs.

Is the region ready for new innovations?

“Will the industry embrace our products?” vendors of crane technology must be wondering. Naturally, there will always be doubts about whether contractors would be prepared to ditch old technology for new.

Nevertheless, if private or public sector project developers are really focused on saving costs, they have to adopt cost effective technologies that would significantly reduce project costs.

Disclaimer: As much as possible, effort has been made to desist from mentioning the companies that supplied the products to ensure objectivity of the information.

International Trade Fair for Construction Machinery, Building Material Machines, Mining Machines and Construction Vehicles.

WWW.BCAFRICA.COM

This has been done to avoid inadvertently vouching for products whose performance

MMI/BCA/Quirk/CEN

has not been verified by third parties.

August 2015

37

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

Apex Steel..................................................3

Keim Mineral Plants................................32

Armco......................................................31

Nelson Construction.................................13

Athi Steel Plant Ltd............................... IBC

Patterson Simmons..................................38

Bauma ConExpo.................................22,37

PDD.........................................................11

Centurion Systems...................................33

Prime Group.............................................29

Conmix.....................................................13

Rentokill...................................................28

Davis & Shirtliff......................................24

Reinforced Earth....................................IFC

DPI Plastics..............................................25

Rocla ISG Group......................................17

Europa......................................................13

Stumblebloc.............................................11

Geberit......................................................18 Hillaldam....................................................1

Swiftpiles Ltd...........................................35

Hung Pumps.........................................OBC

Terraforce.................................................26

International Building Exhibition............19

Tile & Carpet.............................................2

Jessop & Associates (Pty) Ltd.................15

Vermeer....................................................21

To advertise with us: Send Email to info@groupafricapublishing.com or contact your nearest agency for more information.

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African

Mining Brief

EXCELLENCE IN FABRICATING INNOVATIVE STEEL SOLUTIONS

July - August 2014, Volume 8 No. 4

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July - August 2014

At Genrec Engineering, our values deliver your vision. We know that a company’s products are a reflection of the team that creates them. Our people are the underlying force driving the delivery of your vision with embedded values to deliver beyond our customers’ expectations.

High quality, aesthetically pleasing, functional products that set the trend.

Vaal, Libra and Plexicor have a product for every taste.

Loulo-Gounkoto Mine Complex

Dealing with corrosion Minesite catering

Genrec Engineering (Pty) Ltd. • Tel: +27 11 876 2300 | Fax: +27 11 827 1722 Cnr Dekema & Niemann Roads, Wadeville, 1428, South Africa E-mail: sales@genreceng.co.za • Web: www.genreceng.co.za

CONSTRUCTION REVIEW

AFRICAN MINING BRIEF

AGRICULTURAL REVIEW