Since 1989
Sept-Oct 2023, Vol 34 No.5
Lesotho Highland Water Project Phase 2 gets underway
Site maintenance Sizing generators Pool maintenance Dewatering pumps
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MANAGING EDITOR Robert Barnes DEPUTY MANAGING EDITOR Francis Makari EDITOR - in - CHIEF Dennis Ayemba COUNTRY EDITORS Uganda -- Betty Betty Nabakooza Nabakooza Uganda Nigeria -- Boladale Boladale Ademiju Ademiju Nigeria South South Africa Africa -- Jimmy DelilahSwira Aisu WRITERS, WRITERS Pascal Musungu, Musungu, Anita Anita Anyango, Anyango, Pascal Patrick Mulyungi Mulyungi Patrick WEB & & GRAPHIC GRAPHIC DESIGN DESIGN WEB Gerald ArnoldOswald Oduor Sales and Marketing Manager Sales and Marketing Ken Okore Manager Faith Mburu ADVERTISING ADVERTISING Kenya: William Mutama, Lilian Khavosa, Kenya: William Mutama, Lilian Khavosa, Fred Okoth Joyce Ndamaiyu, Wendy Kinya South Africa: Jacqui Nyangabyaki, TsheSouth Africa: Thuli Nkosi, Winnie Sentgo Mokonyama, Rachel Molapo abire, Angeline Ntobeng, Uganda: Uganda: Nobert Nobert Turiyo, Turiyo, Selina Selina Salumah Salumah Namuli Namuli Botswana: Botswana: Dickson Dickson Manyudza, Manyudza, Gerald Gerald Mazikana Mazikana Ethiopia: Ethiopia: Haimanot Haimanot Tesfaye, Tesfaye, Ruth Ruth Girma Girma Tanzania: Tanzania: Tom Tom Kiage Kiage Malawi: Malawi: Anderson Anderson Fumulani Fumulani Ghana: Ghana: Samuel Samuel Hinneh, Hinneh, Caleb Caleb Donne Donne Hadjah Hadjah Zambia: Susan Kandeke Zimbabwe: Chiedza Chimombe Rwanda: Collison Lore Nigeria: Seni Bello China:Weng Jie
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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.
CON Cover Story The Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) is a multi-phased project to provide water to the Gauteng region of South Africa and to generate hydro-electricity for Lesotho. Phase I of the project was completed in 2003 and inaugurated in 2004, and Phase II is currently underway.
REGULARS Corporate News 4 Events 5 COVER STORY: Lesotho Highland Water Project Phase2 6 3D Printing in construction
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Geosynthetic technology suited for Africa
10
Choosing the right colour for a commerical building
12
Compresor machine selection in an industrial setting
14
The dfferent types of dewatering pumps
16
The changing times for renewable energy
22
Bathroom accessories 25 Generator sizing 26 Maintaining a swiming pool 28 Planning Interiors Limited marks 30 years
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Laxmanbhai Construction Limited looking back on 70 years
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Published by Group Africa Publishing Ltd Head Office and for all enquiries: P.O. Box 10109 Nairobi 00100 Kenya, Tel: +254 722525326 +254-208000307 Email: info@groupafricapublishing. com Uganda Agent Projects Unusual Uganda Ltd. Jemba Plaza, Luwum St. Kampala, Uganda Tel: +256 776 883181 bettynnk@gmail.com South Africa Agent
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TENT
Sept/Oct 2023 Volume 34 No.5
Choosing the right colors
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There are thousands of possible colours to choose from (up to 5,000 offered by some paint manufacturers) and herein lies the question: how then does one settle on the right colour?
Importance of compresors in construction
18
We look at some construction site maintenance strategies to guide the decision-making process: preventative, condition-based, predictive, and reliability-centered maintenance.
Generator Sizing When shopping for a generator there are a few critical things you need to be certain about so that you get the best generator for the job.
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Here you will find a step-by-step guide
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CORPORATE NEWS
First hydraulic electric crane joins Mammoet fleet
Combilift’s CB70E wins Italian Terminal and Logistics Award
Combilift, the largest global manufacturer of multidirectional trucks, articulated forklifts and straddle carriers is thrilled to announce that the Combi-CB70E has been honoured with the coveted Italian Terminal and Logistics Award. This prestigious accolade recognises the innovation in the operational field and its commitment to operator training and safety. The Italian Terminal and Logistics Award is a significant industry recognition, presented annually to highlight the skills of operators in port, intermodal and logistics terminals both in Italy and abroad.
Mammoet has added the first electric hydraulic crane to its fleet: the Liebherr LTC 1050-3.1E. Its lifting movements can be powered electrically with full performance, generating zero emissions on site. Heavy construction projects across all industry sectors are seeking to reduce the carbon impact of their operations, to meet strict regulatory requirements and contribute towards 2030 climate targets. As the world’s largest engineered heavy lifting and transport company, Mammoet is leading sustainability efforts.
The new Combi-CB70E is a further addition to Combilift’s ever growing range of electric models which offers powerful performance, extensive battery life and unrivalled ergonomics. This model, in the vibrant Combi-green livery, boasts the distinction of being the shortest 7t capacity counterbalance truck on the market whilst also benefitting from multidirectional ability, enabling the versatile space saving handling of both long and bulky loads.
This work has seen it use the world’s first electric self-propelled modular transporter, to make that solution deployable at scale, the electric SK crane series, electric skidding options and much more. The Liebherr LTC 1050-3.1E is another significant step towards reducing whole-project carbon emissions for all customers. The crane can be plugged into a 32A-rated, 63A-rated or 125A-rated supply on site, and so there is no limitation to the number of working hours it can deliver, as would be the case with battery power. As it is electric, noise during operation is reduced to an absolute minimum, improving safety on site.
New Version of Bobcat S450 Skid-Steer Loader for MEA Bobcat has launched an enhanced version of the company’s marketleading S450 M-Series skid-steer loader for the Middle East and Africa (MEA), offering a new control option for the first time in this model. The updated S450 model also comes with the proven 2.4 litre mechanical engine already in use in the larger Bobcat S510 and S530 models in MEA instead of the original 2.2 litre engine. The updated S450 model now offers a Joystick Controls option for the first time in the standard cab version of the machine. The Joystick Controls are now available for the standard cab only, without adjusting the joysticks and not connected 4
to the standard seat. The Joystick Controls generally allow new or younger generation operators to learn to operate the control patterns more quickly, and they find them easier to handle than traditional manual controls. Joystick Controls also help experienced operators work longer thanks to the lower effort needed to use them. In addition, with the flip of a switch, operators have more flexibility, with additional functions at their fingertips, including these features: •2-speed operation - the availability of the higher speed improves productivity by reducing the time and fuel consumption to do the same task
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•Remote control ready - allows a Radio Remote Control or Wi-Fi Max Control device to be installed in minutes to remotely operate the machine from a safe distance. The user should check for approval for use in their region/country •Horsepower management - this function prevents the engine from stalling when overloaded
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EVENT NEWS
Angola Mining Conference 2023
Oman Home and Building Expo 2023
SAIPEC 2024
The 2nd Angolan Mining Conference & Exhibition (AMC) is set to be held in Luanda, Angola, from 22nd to 23rd November 2023 at Centro de Convenções de Angola (CCTA).
We are pleased to invite you to participate at the Home and Building Expo, co-located with Architecture and Urban Planning Expo, which is taking place from 10-12 October 2023 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Taking place 13-15 February 2024, the Sub Saharan Africa International Petroleum Exhibition and Conference will feature a host of B2B networking and partnership opportunities, an international exhibition, strategic and technical conference.
The theme of the Angolan Mining Conference is Mineral Resources: Development, Sustainability & Challenges. Angola possesses 36 of the 51 most critical minerals in the world and is the 4th largest diamond producer with only having explored 40 percent of its diamond resources. Organized by AME Trade in partnership with the Ministry of Mineral Resources and Petroleum, the event aims to attract global mining investors and promote Angola’s vast mineral resources, including critical minerals for clean energy technologies.
The Expos will showcase the most comprehensive range of innovative products, services, solutions and the entire supply chain under one roof by local and international participants to trade visitors, potential buyers, policy makers, government officials, C-Level executives, business leaders, leading industry experts, top-tier public visitors and key decision makers from the region and beyond, making it a definitive power packed networking platform, where new projects and partnerships are initiated and visionary objectives are implemented.
SAIPEC offers offer direct access to the primary stakeholders and key players across the entire Sub-Saharan Africa supply and value chains. Across three days, speakers and delegates will have the opportunity to participate in business, technical and special focus sessions, providing critical insights into the region's hydrocarbon businesses
With a focus on exploration partnerships and investment opportunities, the conference aims to position Angola as a key player in the global mining industry.
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)
Association Partners
- Kenya Property developers Association - Institution of Surveyors of Kenya -Town and County Planners Association of Kenya (TCPAK)
Uganda society of Architects
- ASAQS - SAICE - South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession - Khuthaza ( Women for Housing)
- Association of Consulting Engineers of Namibia
Tanzania
- Institute of Botswana Quantity Surveyors
- Tanzania Institute of Quantity Surveyors
Ethiopia - Association of Ethiopian Architects - Ethiopian Association of Civil Engineers - Construction Contractors Association of Ethiopia
Zimbabwe - Zimbabwe Institute of Quantity Surveyors - The Construction Industry Federation of Zimbabwe (Cifoz)
Ghana - Ghana Institute of Engineers
- Concrete Manufacturers Association
- Architects Registration Council
- Green Building council of SA
- Ghana Institute of Surveyors
- South African Property Owners Association
- Ghana Green Builders Association
- Master Builders South Africa
- Ghana Institute of Planners
Uganda
- Construction Regulation Board (CRB) - Tanzania’s Registration Board of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (AQSRB)
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)
- Association of Building and Civil Engineering
Zambia
Contractors of Ghana
- Zambia Institute of Architects (ZIA) - Association of Building and Civil Engineering
Institute of Surveyors of Uganda Uganda Institute of Professional Engineers (UIPE) &
- Institute of Namibian Quantity Surveyors
Botswana
- Zimbabwe Institute of Engineers
South Africa
SAIPEC annually attracts over 6,000 leading professionals and policymakers from across the energy value chain of over 50 countries and with billions of dollars of project opportunities across Africa being showcased throughout.
Namibia
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COVER STORY
Lesotho Highlands Water
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) is a multiphased project to provide water to the Gauteng region of South Africa and to generate hydro-electricity for Lesotho. It was established by the 1986 Treaty signed by the governments of the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa. The project entails harnessing the waters of the Senqu/Orange River in the Lesotho highlands through the construction of a series of dams for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Phase I of the project was completed in 2003 and inaugurated in 2004, and Phase II is currently underway. LHWP Phase 2 involves the construction of the Polihali dam and transfer tunnel, as well as the Senqu Bridge above the Senqu river. The LHWP, the biggest infrastructure investment South Africa has participated in outside its borders, is a good example of public-private collaboration to build key public infrastructure, he said, noting that most of the estimated R40-billion in capital
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COVER STORY
Project Phase 2
required for this phase would be raised in South Africa’s financial markets by the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority. In November, the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) announced the award of two contracts – LHWP Phase 2’s biggest to date – for the construction of the Polihali dam and Polihali transfer tunnel, signalling the start of the “final lap” of the water transfer infrastructure construction. The Polihali dam, a 165-m-high concrete-faced rockfill dam, similar to the Mohale dam, which was constructed in Phase 1 of the LHWP, will create a reservoir on the Senqu and Khubelu rivers with a surface area of 5 053 ha. The infrastructure also includes a spillway, a compensation outlet structure and a mini-hydropower station. The Polihali transfer tunnel will transfer water by gravity from the Polihali reservoir to the Katse reservoir, before being transferred through the delivery tunnel to the Muela hydropower station constructed in Phase I, and then on to the Ash River outfall outside Clarens, in the Free State, on its way to Gauteng. The water South Africa receives from Lesotho augments the Integrated Vaal River System, which supplies water to Gauteng and its surrounding areas. Phase 2 will increase the current water supply from 780-million cubic metres a year incrementally to more than 1.27-billion cubic metres a year by completion in 2028. “Once Phase II is completed, more than 400-million cubic metres of water will flow every year from the upper reaches of the Senqu river in Lesotho through the existing conveyance infrastructure to the Vaal dam in South Africa,” Ramaphosa commented. Both Phase I and II include the construction of hydropower facilities to provide electricity for Lesotho.
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3D PRINTING
3D PRINTING IN CONSTRUCTION
Reduced Material Costs Another improvement may be a considerable reduction of fabric waste. 3D printers use the precise amount of concrete needed for the wall, floor, or whatever it is that you simply want to create. Builders and GCs do not have to order in bulk because they’ll know exactly what proportion material they have.
In the construction industry the movement is gaining pace and so is the attention of both the general public and personal sectors. Transparency Market Research predicts that the market size for 3D printing in construction will grow from US $29m in 2019 to US $280m by 2027. The construction industry stands to gain in many ways by adopting 3D technology. Here are seven advantages to be gained by employing a 3D printer in construction projects. Reduced Injury One of the most important benefits that 3D printers have presented to construction workers may be a reduction in injuries within the field. Considering that building with concrete is difficult and even dangerous, this may be a welcome improvement. Not only do workers have a neater time doing their job, but employers have less worker’s compensation paperwork to go through thanks to injuries on the work. 8
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Quicker Construction This is the place solid 3D printers really set themselves apart from conventional development techniques. Where a project may sometimes take weeks or months to complete, 3D printers can often finish a project during a matter of hours or days. This enables contractors to maneuver onto other projects sooner and with more orders filled. This means extra money for the contractor. Cheaper Construction Overall, The utilization of 3D printers’ costs less than traditional construction techniques and processes. With the decrease of time, and material cost, organizations will see a sensational increment in their benefits. And while some workers will probably need to be layed off, others will remain, since someone still must be ready to put all of the pieces together. By learning the technology, workers have an opportunity to take care of their job security. They will earn more, as
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3D PRINTING
will the corporate as an entirety. New Markets Utilizing a 3D printer additionally permits construction organizations to enter into business sectors which may have in any case been blocked off to them previously. And for brand spanking new construction companies, having a 3D printer available could set them aside from companies that are around for a couple of decades and are immune to change. Similarly, traditional and established construction companies could utilize 3D printers to ensure they continue to be relevant within the market. Essentially, 3D printers are often used as a way to enter a replacement market but also to offer an already established company a competitive edge. Better Durability While testing concrete during the first stages of construction will still be necessary, 3D printers are found to contribute to the sturdiness of the structural elements. This is often due partially to how the materials are made and therefore the manner in which they’re assembled. More durable buildings mean fewer repairs have to be made, so construction companies can focus their efforts elsewhere to drive profit. For clients, too, their preferences certainly rest with a building which will last longer. Brand Improvement Finally, one among the foremost important impacts that the 3D printer has on the development industry is increased brand awareness. Construction companies are typically thought of to be wasteful and unsustainable. Because it reduces waste, 3D printing is a superb method for a corporation to enhance how they are viewed by those that are concerned about the environmental toll that concrete construction takes on the planet. Contractors that would use a touch help in their branding could had best to acquire and utilize a 3D printer.
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SEPT-OCT 2023 | CR
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GEOSYNTHETICS
Geosynthetic technology uniquely suited to the African environment
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Geocells are an example of geosynthetic technology uniquely suited to the African environment. Geocells are a 3D mechanical soil stabilization and road reinforcement method. The honeycombed cells create a new composite entity when filled with soil materials due to the unique interaction of geometry, soil and the cellwall material. The stiff 3D mattress restrains the lateral movement of soil particles and maximizes the distribution of lateral and vertical stresses. The main advantage of geocells is the creation of a layer with significantly increased compressive, shear and bending stiffness (slab effect). This results in higher bearing capacity, lower stress/strain fields, resulting in
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lower deformations and extended service life. However, as Zeev Strahl of PRS – the veteran Israeli manufacturer of geocells – states, this is where Neoloy, a nano-polymeric alloy comes into play. “In the end, it is the stiffness and durability properties of material (beside the cell geometry) that the geocell is manufactured from that determines the level of engineering performance. Neoloy is an innovative alloy developed by PRS specifically for geocells. Studies and field trials by leading civil engineering faculties and engineering companies around the world have validated that geocells made from Neoloy show significantly better ultimate bearing capacity, stiffness, and
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GEOSYNTHETICS
reinforcement relative to geocells made from conventional HDPE geocells, particularly for the entire life span of the roads pavements,” he adds. The Neoloy Geocells’ stiffness, resistance to deformation (creep)and long-term design strength make geocells more suitable for the demanding requirements of infrastructure projects. Projects undertaken in Africa for the Neoloy Geocell include: weak subgrade stabilization and reinforcement for paved and gravel roads, railroad embankments, terminal storage, container yards, airfields and landfills from Northern to Southern Africa and from the Gold Coast to the Horn of Africa. Clients include UNOPS, mine owners , energy companies, railway authorities , port authorities, and government agencies and municipalities.
Dimiter Alexiew an international Geosynthetic Consultant from Germany, explains that in the African context, it is important to note that the 3D Neoloy Geocell confinement enables the use of sands or other locally available inferior fills, in place of gravel aggregate. And as it works for sands, finer-grained, partially cohesive soils, such as Laterite, can also be used for structural infill. This is of great benefit in many regions in Africa, where even sand is rare. Besides the lack of gravel and sand, expansive soils are a common geotechnical problem in Africa that can be resolved economically by Neoloy Geocells, as a proven solution to equalize heave deformations. In addition, cement stabilization can be replaced in many projects with geocell mechanical reinforcement, as it is more cost-effective, does not crack over time and does not have negative environmental
impacts. “The high improved modulus factor from Neoloy Geocell reinforcement typically reduces pavement thickness by 50%, even with marginal infill, with no decrease in performance or service life. Neoloy optimized pavements do not crack, thereby significantly decreasing repairs and maintenance, even under heavy loading/ trafficking and harsh environmental conditions. So, both construction and maintenance costs can be lowered at the same time. The end result is a sustainable construction solution with significant economic advantages, enabling countries to maximize their infrastructure investments in the most cost-effective and environmentally-friendly manner,” says Zeev Strahl of PRS.
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PAINT
Choosing the right colour for a commercial building
The choice of colours, once a commercial building is complete, has always presented a challenge to many developers. Understandably, paint work is not one of the key considerations that developers grapple with at the conception of a project. Most would rather worry over completion of the physical structure, which is often the phase that takes up most of the financial resources.
choose from (up to 5,000 offered by some paint manufacturers) and herein lies the question: how then does one settle on the right colour? It is a question to consider both for ew buildings and renovation works. According to Higgins Coatings, there are some standard guidelines that should help the developer come up with colours suitable for the particular development.
But what happens when the project has finally taken shape and all that is left is “finishing”? Many project owners will concede that this too poses a major challenge. The physical appeal of the building and subsequent uptake of rental or purchased space is quite often influenced by the colours that have been employed in the finish. This is why it is critical that even as the development is under way, the developer must constantly put his mind around what colour scheme to use once the project is complete.
Architectural style of the building For instance, a building could be a historical or a futuristic structure. A modern palette will look very out of place on a historical building, and vice versa. Older buildings favour neutrals and rich browns, while modern buildings experiment more with bolder colours, including orange, yellow and red.
There are thousands of possible colours to 12
Impression intended and who is to use the building Depending on the type of clientele one wishes to attract, choice of colour scheme may vary. A building that hosts advertising
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firms or interior design businesses may opt for bold colours while law firms may inspire more subdued colours. A hospital normally goes for white or mild blue. A kindergarten will call for several different bright colours. Colour combination that works best As a general rule, no more than three colours should be used on the exterior of a building: one for the walls, one for the trimmings and one for accents. It is a choice between complementary and analogous colours. Complementary colours are colours that are directly opposite each other on the colour wheel, such as red and green, blue and orange or purple and yellow. These create a visually striking effect, making a space more impactful. Analogous colours, on the other hand, are colours that sit side by side on the colour wheel, such as orange and yellow, or green and blue. These create a subtler, more harmonious effect, making a space feel more casual.
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PAINT
Other factors that may influence choice of colour are brand identity and surroundings. If the building belongs to and houses an organization with already distinct brand colours, naturally it is these colours that will guide the paintwork. For instance, it is unlikely for a building housing Coca Cola to use blue, yellow or other such colours that do not identify with the company.
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If other buildings in the surroundings conform to a particular colour scheme, a developer may have to adopt colours that rhyme with these existing structures. Local regulations may also dictate the colour to use. For instance, Mombasa County Government in Kenya decided that all commercial premises should adopt white and blue as their colour scheme. Before commencing paintwork, it is advisable to try out the selected colours on a smaller area. This will give the developer an idea of how the entire building will look like and provide a path to change before painting the entire structure and regretting later.
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COMPRESSORS
Compressor Machine Selection in an Industrial Setting
In selecting air compressors for general shop use, the choice will generally come down to a piston compressor or a helical-screw compressor. Piston compressors tend to be less expensive than screw compressors, require less sophisticated maintenance, and hold up well under dirty operating conditions. They are much noisier than screw compressors, however, and are more susceptible to passing oil into the compressed air supply, a phenomenon known as “carryover.” Because piston compressors generate a great deal of heat in operation, they have to be sized according to a duty cycle—a rule of thumb prescribes 25% rest and 75% run. Radial-screw compressors can run 100% of the time and almost prefer it. A potential problem with screw compressors, though, is that oversizing one with the idea of growing into its capacity can lead to trouble as they are not particularly suited to frequent starting and stopping. Close tolerance between rotors means that compressor needs to remain at operating temperature to achieve effective compression. Sizing one takes a little more attention to air usage; a piston compressor may be oversized without similar worries. An autobody shop which uses air constantly for painting might find a radial-screw compressor with its lower carryover rate and desire to run continuously an asset; a general auto-repair business with more infrequent air use and low concern for the cleanliness of the supplied air might be better served with a piston compressor. Regardless of the compressor type, compressed air is usually cooled, dried, and filtered before it is distributed through pipes. Specifiers of plant-air systems will need to select these components based on the size of the system they design. In addition, they will need to consider installing filter-regulator-lubricators at the supply drops. Larger job site compressors mounted on trailers are typically rotary-screw varieties with engine drives. They are intended to run continuously whether the air is used or dumped. 14
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Although dominant in lower-end refrigeration systems and air compressors, scroll compressors are beginning to make inroads into other markets. They are particularly suited to manufacturing processes that demand very clean air (class 0) such as pharmaceutical, food, electronics, etc. and to cleanroom, laboratory, and medical/dental settings. Manufactures offer units up to 40 hp that deliver nearly 100 cfm at up 145 psi. The larger capacity units generally incorporate multiple scroll compressors as the technology does not scale up well once beyond 3-5 hp. If the application involves compressing hazardous gases, specifiers often consider diaphragm or sliding-vane compressors, or, for very large volumes to compress, kinetic types. Additional Selection Considerations Some additional selection factors to which consideration should be given are as follows: • Oil vs. oil less, Sizing the compressor, Air quality and Controls. Oil vs. Oil less Oil is important in the operation of any compressor as it serves to remove heat generated by the compression process. In many designs, oil provides a seal as well. In the case of piston compressors, oil lubricates the crank and wrist-pin bearings and the sidewalls of the cylinder. As with piston engines, rings on the piston provide sealing of the compression chamber and control the passage of oil into it. Rotary-screw compressors inject oil into the compressor body to both seal the two non-contacting rotors and, again, to remove some of the heat of the compression process. Rotary-vane compressors rely on oil to seal the minute space between the vane tips and the housing bore. Scroll compressors do not normally use oil, thus are known as oil less but, of course, their capacities are somewhat limited. Centrifugal compressors do not introduce any oil into the compression stream, but these are in a different league than their positive-displacement brethren. To create oil-free compressors, manufacturers rely on a number of tactics. Piston-compressor makers can employ one-piece piston-crank assemblies that ride the crankshaft on eccentric bearings. As these pistons reciprocate in cylinders, they rock within them. This design eliminates a wrist-pin bearing on the piston. Piston-compressor makers also employ a variety of self-lubricating materials for the sealing rings and cylinder liners. Rotary-screw compressor makers tighten up the clearances between the screws, eliminating the need for oil sealant. There are tradeoffs, however, with any of these schemes. Increased wear, heat-management issues, reduced capacity, and more frequent maintenance are but a few of the drawbacks associated with oil-less air compressors. Obviously, specific industries put up with these tradeoffs because oil-free air is imperative. But where it is acceptable to filter out oil, or simply live with it, an ordinary oil-based compressor makes sense.
DEWATERING PUMPS
The Different Types of Dewatering Pumps and their Applications
Dewatering is the process of removing water from a particular area or substance. It is a necessary process in various industries such as construction, mining, and agriculture. Dewatering pumps are essential tools in the dewatering process, and they come in different types, each with unique features and applications. Submersible pumps Submersible pumps are one of the most commonly used dewatering pumps. They are designed to be submerged in water and are used to pump out water from flooded areas or construction sites. These pumps are available in various sizes and capacities, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Submersible pumps are ideal for: •Removing water from flooded basements and cellars •Dewatering mines and quarries •Emptying sumps and pits •Pumping water from construction sites Centrifugal Pumps Centrifugal pumps are another popular type of dewatering pump. They work by converting the kinetic energy of a rotating impeller into pressure energy, which is then used to move the water. These pumps are available in various sizes and can handle 16
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large volumes of water. Centrifugal pumps are ideal for: •Moving large volumes of water quickly •Dewatering construction sites •Pumping water from ponds and lakes •Handling wastewater and sewage Diaphragm Pumps Diaphragm pumps are another type of dewatering pump that are widely used in the construction and mining industries. They work by using a flexible diaphragm to create a vacuum, which then draws water into the pump. These pumps are highly efficient and can handle abrasive and viscous materials. Diaphragm pumps are ideal for: •Dewatering mines and quarries •Pumping slurries and viscous materials •Handling abrasive materials Wellpoint Pumps Wellpoint pumps are a type of dewatering pump that are specifically designed for wellpoint dewatering systems. These pumps work by creating a vacuum that draws water into a wellpoint system, which is then removed using a suction pump. Wellpoint pumps are ideal for: •Dewatering construction sites www.constructionreviewonline.com
DEWATERING PUMPS
•Handling groundwater •Pumping out water from excavations Trash Pumps Trash pumps are a type of dewatering pump that are designed to handle solid materials such as debris, rocks, and twigs. These pumps work by using a powerful impeller to chop up the solid materials, allowing them to be easily removed with the water. Trash pumps are ideal for: •Dewatering construction sites •Handling stormwater and floodwater •Pumping out water containing solid materials Conclusion In conclusion, dewatering pumps are essential tools in various industries, and they come in different types, each with unique features and applications. Choosing the right pump for your application is crucial for ensuring efficient and effective dewatering. Whether you are looking to remove water from a flooded area or handle abrasive materials, there is a dewatering pump that can meet your needs.
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MANAGEMENT
CONSTRUCTION SITE MAINTENANCE STRATEGIES The importance of construction site maintenance strategies cannot be overemphasized. Imagine a project for a non-commercial building just months away from crossing the finish line when a tower crane topples and causes four floors to collapse into rubble. Luckily no one is hurt, but the penalty clause from the contract is activated, and the construction site must remain closed while the authorities investigate the cause of the disaster. After two months of uncertainty and frayed nerves, the result from the investigation finally reveals mechanical failure as the cause: no maintenance recorded on the crane for the last five months. Below are some construction site maintenance strategies to guide the decision-making process: preventative, condition-based, predictive, and reliabilitycentered maintenance. Preventative Maintenance (PM) Preventative maintenance (PM) 18
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is
a systematic approach that involves regularly scheduled inspection, repairs, replacements, or any other task that minimizes wear and tear of an asset. On a construction site, preventative maintenance can be time-based, usagebased, or predictive. A cut-off-saw is an example where both time-based and usage-based maintenance are appropriate. Advantages of Preventative Maintenance Fewer expensive repairs; Reduces downtime due to unplanned maintenance; Longer lifespan of asset; Improved reliability and availability of asset; Cheaper than CMB, PdM, and RCM to implement and; Does not require a large amount of data to implement Disadvantages of Preventative Maintenance Does not consider the critical function of an asset; Is not necessarily an optimized maintenance strategy; Requires in-depth planning and a critical analysis of an asset;
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MANAGEMENT
Routine maintenance may be unnecessary leading to inefficient use of time and higher spending and; Does not consider the optimum lifespan of a component Condition-based Maintenance (CBM) Condition-based monitoring uses tests, visual inspections, operational performance, and other equipment information as a “listening ear” to determine the real-time condition of an asset. Different algorithms later use the data acquired to detect, diagnose, and perform a prognosis for an asset’s failure modes. Advantages of CBM Maintenance performed on an as-needed basis; Lowers expenses on maintenance by minimizing time spent to maintain an asset; Lowers the risks associated with unscheduled downtime; Optimizes maintenance intervals; Increases the lifespan of an asset; Better time management due to predefined scheduled intervals and; Longer useful life for parts Disadvantages of CBM Relies on specific indicators that may lead to asset modification; requires specific knowledge to choose the type of measurement equipment; Expensive to install and time-consuming to perform database analysis; CBM does not detect all types of failures and; Resistance to change is an obstacle Predictive Maintenance (PdM)
Predictive maintenance uses conditionmonitoring strategies to identify and asset’s performance and establish a future date for maintenance. This approach closely intertwines data collected from sensors, environmental measurements, maintenance history, machine operations, and other suitable parameters with algorithms. These algorithms then use the collected data with other variables to predict when failure occurs according to the criteria established in a predictive maintenance model. The answers to two crucial questions below provide essential information about the applicability of predictive maintenance for an asset: Does the asset perform a critical function that can negatively impact the project if it fails unexpectedly? Is it possible to cost-effectively monitor the failure modes of the asset? If the answer is “YES” to both questions, then the next step is selecting the components/systems on a construction site to monitor. Vibration of bearings, overloads in electrical panels, temperature differences of electrical components, spikes in motor amperages, motor oil insulation resistance, and overloads are just some examples to monitor on a construction site. Advantages of PdM Increases asset availability due to less downtime; Reduces maintenance costs by making it possible to acquire spare parts promptly and possibly for a lower cost; Better customer satisfaction and employee productivity which are direct results of better maintenance planning and reduced
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MANAGEMENT
downtime Disadvantages of PdM Misinterpretation of data from sensors and other measuring devices can lead to prediction error; High setup costs and careful analysis to determine which assets perform a critical function can be time-consuming and; requires more time to develop compared to other methods Reliability-centered Maintenance (RCM) Reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) is an empirical approach that focuses on the reliability and availability of an asset as opposed to its optimized functionality. The failure mode, effect, and criticality analysis (FMECA) concept is an important tool that elaborates on the goals, principles, and approach in RCM with the final aim of identifying an optimal maintenance program anchored on various maintenance strategies. RCM considers an acceptable level of risk, and consequently, not all failure modes are immediately maintained; only those deemed critical. Advantages of RCM Increases equipment availability as a result of reduced downtime; Reduces maintenance costs by lowering corrective and preventative maintenance costs; Better planning for spare parts availability and consequently lower costs; Better risk awareness and maintenance optimization strategies; Reduces the 20
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likelihood of sudden equipment failure and associated probability and; Involves root cause analysis in methodology approach Disadvantages of RCM Cost reduction is only evident over the long term; Management interested in short-term saving results may, therefore, resist the change; High start-up costs to buy equipment, allocate resources, implement strategies and train personnel; does not consider ownership costs and; requires good understanding of failure modes at the system level The construction industry relies heavily on building and industrial maintenance strategies to ensure optimal functionality of assets and reduced downtime. A single maintenance strategy cannot achieve this due to the wide range of components/systems, the numerous failure modes, and the differing degrees of criticality assigned to each. Construction projects are also case-specific with unique design and legal requirements that play an essential role in defining equipment usage, building specifications, and work practices. Cost-effectiveness, available resources, manufacturer’s product guidelines, the criticality of a particular component/ system, and long-term maintenance plans are essential deciding factors for choosing a combination of different optimal maintenance strategies.
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SOLAR PANELS
How renewable energy has changed over the last 10 years
Solar power is more affordable, accessible, and prevalent in the world today than ever before offering clean renewable energy for all
P
ast years have witnessed a vast change in the mindset where people are advocating and endorsing the renewable means of energy. This change is strongly linked to a plethora of scientific evidence that points towards the fact that mankind will run out of energy resources in the future. Therefore, depending less upon coal and other non-renewable energy resources was made a priority. Advancements in nonhydro resources of energy production spiked, including devising ways in which energy can be produced by solar and geothermal resources.
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install, and commendable photovoltaic panels were produced by trustworthy companies. Changes in renewable energy 1. Organic photovoltaic cells Using silicon to make energy efficient solar panels became history. This happened when a team of Chinese researchers changed the outlook of renewable energy resources by creating organic solar cells using carbonbased materials.
However, recently the looming threat of depleting energy sources led to a wave of energy conservation initiatives. Out of these, switching to solar energy was at the top.
The organic photovoltaic cells are produced by materials that are dissolvable in ink so that they are easy to print out on the sheets. Once developed efficiently and with increased output, these organic photovoltaic cells have a wider range of applicability than the solar photovoltaic cells.
Solar energy usage spread rapidly in the industrial sector initially. Use of solar panels for producing electricity in the household sector took a toll. This is when the easy to
Due to their flexibility, the organic cells can be incorporated in windows. These are also lighter in weight and can be easily installed and maintained.
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SOLAR PANELS
2. Energy storage The means to store the energy produced by renewable sources is the key behind its vast use. Storing clean energy was a major hurdle in switching to such energy solutions, as energy supply should be uninterrupted and seamless. Major sources of renewable energy, namely geothermal and solar produce varying amounts of energy outputs. This is why it was quintessential to make clean energy reliable and efficient.
But today, the upfront costs of installing solar panels have decreased vastly. The decrease in these costs has contributed greatly to the increase in installation and easy switch to the clean energy. Also, the terms of solar energy loans have become lenient; thus, marking a huge change in the industry. Now you can start saving from day one with flexible terms on your solar energy solutions.
Development of solar batteries helped in resolving this major issue faced by solar energy solutions. The batteries save excess energy for later use when there is less energy available to produce the desired output. 3. Technological innovation Past years have seen tremendous development in how renewable energy has transformed. Solar panels have become more domestic friendly, while biomass is underway to become the most powerful heat generating system of the world. Solar technology took a leap with high powered solar batteries coming to the rescue. Geothermal power plants are also developed technologically to leverage energy costs and usage in developed countries. 4. Freedom of designing This particular change occurring in the renewable energy sector is mostly related to the advancements made in solar energy solutions. Solar panels are no more only rooftop panels, they are also incorporated into windows as sheets, thanks to the organic solar cells. Also, the solar tiles are prime examples of freedom in designing of the solar panels. They allow retaining the natural look of the building. This freedom of designing has helped in increasing the penetration of solar energy solutions into remote areas. These are the places that were once very far from the electric grid stations. 5. Easy costs Previously there were fewer loans available for solar energy solutions. www.constructionreviewonline.com
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SOLAR PANELS
6. Going off the grid Renewable Energy Sources were initially incorporated in the commercial sector. Now their usage has increased drastically for domestic purposes. More and more houses are opting for solar panels to fulfill their power generation demands. However, over a couple of years, the world has witnessed that the renewable sources of energy are increasingly utilized for providing power to the remote areas. These were previously inaccessible by the electric grid. This has solved one of the major problems of underdeveloped countries, such as Africa, to go entirely off the grid. Going off the grid means that these areas no more need to rely on extensive transmission lines, to provide the power. Thus, this eliminates the need for installing power plants for these areas. They solely rely on solar panel fields and strong batteries that capture and store excess energy to provide power at night as well. 7. Development in the usage of biomass energy Development in biomass energy to replace the traditional sources of fuels such as fuel wood and animal dung has taken an impressive 24
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leap in the previous years. Most developed countries are progressing toward developing and utilizing the Earth’s heat to make up for the energy requirements. By 2050, it is estimated that up to 50% of the energy requirements will be fulfilled by biomass energy production. Final word The world is becoming aware of how fast we are running out of non-renewable energy resources. Thanks to tons of campaigns aimed at saving the environment and making people aware of what we can do about it. These campaigns and awareness programs are backed by a plethora of noteworthy environmental studies. They are being carried out throughout the world for more than a decade now. More and more people are now informed about how they can reduce their carbon footprints and why is it important. The fast growth of renewable energy solutions has made it possible for people to be more considerate towards the environment. Clean energy is the way to an environment that is not depleting its resources, rather it is using them in the most sensible way.
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BATHROOMS
5 Bathroom Accessories Every Bath Space Needs
A
re you aware of the newest trends? Possibilities are that you might know but you have no idea what to do about it and how to acquire it. Well, we will guide you through 5 essential bathroom accessories to fulfill all your needs. These essentials will help you enhance the aesthetics of your decor. These bathroom essentials are your regular use accessories. Most of them are already available in your bathroom arena but you might find it difficult to arrange it. Here are the 5 bathroom accessories your need:1. Soap basket Well, we all are aware of what soap baskets are and these accessories are available in every bath space. Choosing the right soap basket is important as it may change the way your bathroom looks. Always try to place your soap basket near your shower area (try avoiding right under it). This will help you access your soap easily and also isolate it from other accessories. Grouping your shower products is also a good way to arrange your shower essentials.
2. Towel hanger/ shelf Towel hangers are useful in so many ways. There are multiple designs available in the market to choose from. If you are thinking about creating a subtle and clean look for your bathroom, choose a wider towel shelf with a pole. If you aim to go for a more casual look, a towel ring is suitable for such ideas. Although towel rings are mostly used for hand towels near the basin area, a bigger towel ring can be used for holding a regular towel. 3. Robe Hook Robe hook is a new trend in bathroom accessories. In modern-day bathrooms, bathrobes are used in regular households. The positioning of a robe needs to be done in a manner so that the accessibility of your robe is good but far enough from the shower area. 4. Paper holder Modern bathrooms are now smarter and provide a better sense of hygiene. The paper holder is another bath accessory that enhances the asthetics of your lavatory. This accessory is highly recommended
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near the commode and basin area. 5. Baskets Bathroom baskets are a great choice for a highly equipped bathroom. We surely don’t want our bathroom area to be filled with products all over. Bathroom baskets help you keep all your products in one place and arrange your bathroom to look cleaner and classic. Of all the latest trends in bathroom design, bath accessories appear to have the greatest appeal. Gone are the days when you needed a massive bathroom and a trust fund to own one. The undeniable beauty and charm they bring to your bathroom are explicit, but when it comes to buying one, you want to make sure you know your stuff. In the sanitaryware industry, there are a few bathroom accessories manufacturers in India who are determined to provide luxury and quality products. Choosing the right manufacturer is what you need to do to end your hunt for quality and service assurance.
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GENERATORS
Generator Sizing: A Step By Step Guide
When shopping for a generator there are a few critical things you need to be certain about so taht you get the best generator for the job. 1. Calculate the load size First things first, what equipment will the generator be running? Make a list of everything you need to power and add up the total wattage.The total wattage will tell you the amount of electrical power required by your equipment and from there you can work out the minimum electrical input needed from a generator. You can find wattage information either on the equipment’s silver nameplate or in the manufacturer’s guide. NB. Some electrical equipment has a different starting and running wattage. This is because it takes more energy to start equipment with an electric motor than it does to keep the motor running. It is vital that any initial surge in wattage is factored into the generator sizing process: it’s no use having a generator that matches your running requirements but doesn’t have enough power to start the load.
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2. Convert kW to kVA If you add up the maximum required wattage for your equipment, you’ll end up with your total power requirement in kilowatts (kW). Kilowatts is the actual power that will be used by the load to produce a useful working output. Generators are rated in kilo-volt-amperes (kVA). kVA is a measure of apparent power: it tells you the total amount of power in use in a system. In a 100% efficient system kW = kVA. However electrical systems are never 100% efficient and therefore not all of the systems apparent power will be used to produce a useful work output. You can convert between kVA and kW if you know the efficiency of the electrical system. Electrical efficiency is expressed as a power factor between 0 and 1: the closer the power factor is to 1, the more efficiently the kVA is being converted into useful kW. International standards rate generators as having a power factor of 0.8. Power factor is very important for matching the size of your load to a generator: a generator that is rated at 100kVA and has a 0.8pf will be too www.constructionreviewonline.com
GENERATORS
small to power equipment that requires 100kW of actual power. So, if the equipment you want to power has a total wattage of 100kW, the minimum size generator that could produce that would be a 125kVA. However load size is only one contributing factor. 3. Define your running requirements Will the generator be a standby measure or your primary power source? A generator should not be operated at maximum
capacity for more than 30 minutes. If you’re going to be using the generator as your main power supply, you’ll need to size for 70-80% capacity. As well as improving performance, leaving a 20-30% safety margin will also allow for future power requirements. 4. Analyse site conditions and access Once you’ve calculated the load size and factored in your running requirements, you’ll have a good idea of the amount of electrical input needed from a generator. The next step is to confirm that your power requirements are feasible given the conditions and location of your
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site. Site access and manoeuvrability have a big impact on how the generator is delivered and offloaded and this can also affect generator sizing. If access to the site is particularly narrow, uphill or off road then larger, less manoeuvrable vehicles may not be able to get on and off site. Similarly, if onsite space is limited there may not be enough room to extend the stabiliser legs necessary for offloading the generator, let alone enough space to operate the crane and position the generator.
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POOL MAINTENANCE
Maintaining a Healthy Swimming Pool You can, of course, hire a professional pool team to do this. However, it comes at a cost and it’s not too difficult to do it yourself, providing you do it on a regular basis and you have a little know how. Here are our top tips for maintaining your swimming pool. 1. Skimming Skimmers are the rectangular openings on the sides of underground pools. Most above ground pools have skimmers as well, but these are usually hung from the sides of the pool and float on the surface. Skimmers draw in water from the surface of the pool, where most pollutants including debris, sunscreen are to be found. They collect the dirt before it has time to stinks to help maintain clean water. How often? You’ll need to check and empty the skimmer basket on a weekly basis. 2. Rake and Vacuum Use a rake or net to scoop out debris such as leaves, twigs and branches. Invest in a scoop that features a sturdy, lightweight design and extra wide net with a telescopic pole. This makes it easier to access all areas of your pool. Use a pool vacuum to remove leaves, dirt 28
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and other debris that has fallen to the bottom of the pool. How often? You’ll need to rake and vacuum your pool weekly. 3. Clean the filter A dirty filter can have a dramatic effect on water circulation and is what can lead to a green or cloudy pool, even if the chemical levels are fine. When water passes through the filter, millions of tiny particles cling to the filter, the accumulation of which can lead to a sluggish pump that doesn’t do its job. Note that there are several different kinds of filters and all come with a unique cleaning process. How often? Cleaning the filter should be done weekly. 4. Check pH levels The pH level is a measure of the acidity of the water. The pH scale goes from 0 to 14, where pH 7 is neutral. If the pH is above 7, the water is basic; if it is below 7 the water is acid. Typical pH levels should be between 7.2 and 7.6. How often? The pH levels of your pool should be checked daily. www.constructionreviewonline.com
POOL MAINTENANCE
5. Brushing Brushing all surfaces can improve the appearance of your pool | Wax Design Space Brushing the walls of your pool will remove some of the particles and build-up that sticks to the porous concrete or fibreglass. How often? This task should be undertaken weekly and before you vacuum. Once you’ve brushed the surfaces, the particles will sink to the bottom to be vacuumed. 6. Water Level Pools lose water through evaporation and use. Water levels should not be allowed to fall below the skimmer intake tubes, as this can damage the pump. Simply putting a running garden hose into the water for a few minutes is the easiest way to refill the pool. Make sure you check your local water restrictions before you do so! How often? Check your water levels weekly when you’re skimming the pool.
7. Shocking the Pool Shocking your swimming pool is a way to remove organics in your water, kill off algae and ensure your pool stays clear. Shocking the pool involves adding a significant amount of chlorine to the water to combat organic contaminants such as ammonia and nitrogen that build up in a pool and can
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cause it to go cloudy and smell of chlorine. If you are considering this, be sure to do it safely as chlorine is a chemical! How often? Weekly at dusk or night and allow your filter system to run for least 8 hours after before it is safe to swim again.
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PROFILE
Planning Interiors Limited Marks 30 Years
Planning Interiors Limited (PIL) is a leading interior design consultancy based in Nairobi, Kenya. PIL has its beginnings in the early 1990s when Managing Director Eugene Ngugi, a 1987 University of Nairobi Design graduate, was working at PLANNING Systems Services, a respected architectural studio. Eugene was hired by PLANNING Systems Services in 1992, a period
Eugene Ngugi, Managing Director
Cellulant Offices 30
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PROFILE
when architectural firms were beginning to set up Interior Design departments. “At the time, PLANNING Systems Services had recruited some interior designers from the United Kingdom to work on fit-out projects,” he recalls. “I was very useful to the UK team as I had worked locally for five years and gained valuable experience in interior aspects including furniture, partitions, local contractor fit-outs, etc.”
KCB Headquarters - KCB Towers
at PLANNING, Jim Archer and Trevor Andrews, decided to promote Eugene to head the department rather than hire new expatriates.
Eugene helped grow the Interior Design department at PLANNING Systems Services, getting two other designers and expanding to seven within three years. “It was the right time to set up the department as the firm (PSSL) was now doing a lot of office buildings and would get interior design and fit-out work from tenants,” he says. “It was good business.” In 1997 when two expatriates in the Interior Design department returned to their home countries, the founding partners
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Recognizing the immense potential of their independent interior design work and the importance of avoiding conflicts of interest on projects, the partners took a bold step in 1993. They established the Interior Design department as a separate company – Planning Interiors Limited. This move laid the foundation for a future filled with creative freedom, and the ability to collaborate with other architectural firms across the region. In 2002, the PLANNING Systems Services partners hived
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Tel: 254-730-681-100
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EVENTS NEWS
off Planning Interiors Limited to Eugene and Fatema (Eugene’s fellow interior designer) to set off on their own. Fatima Essaje helped Eugene as the Design Director. “Getting jobs was relatively easy at the beginning”, says Eugene, an award-winning interior designer. His experience at PLANNING came in handy and fortunately while still there he had begun learning the art of managing a business.
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“There were very few interior design firms then. Our main competitors were architectural firms. We would do mostly corporate office work and bank branches.” Practically all the work would come in through word of mouth or referrals rather than competitive bidding’ remembers Eugene. “These days, to get a project, you have to really fight for it.” PIL takes pride in transforming interior spaces for some of the most reputable corporates in the country. Among the projects that stand out are Open Society
House of Waine
Congratulations PLANNING INTERIORS LTD on your 30th anniversary 32
MEP Engineers Westview Apartments, School Lane, Westlands Tel: +254 796 309994 Email: info@crediblebs.co.ke
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PRODUCTS NEWS
Initiative for Eastern Africa (OSIEA) where, in line with the client’s value of inclusivity, PIL created a new office that is homely, vibrant, innovative, diverse, Afrocentric, and sustainable. Other projects include General Electric offices, KCB Head Office and branches, I&M Bank Head Office, Coca-Cola, House of Waine, Wasoko Head Office, Cellulant, and many more.
I&M Bank headquarters
According to Eugene, most interior design these days is brand-centric. “In the past, I would travel extensively around the world to places like South Africa, the United Kingdom, and the United States to get exposed to international standards and see how to bring that back home but nowadays when we do a project, we try to express the character of the brand. We also try to promote local flavor in aspects such as art, furniture, etc.” “We call it glocal, which is an interconnection of global and local aspects. So, a project can be global in terms of technical standards but local through the use of materials available here.”
Nyama Mama
PLANNING INTERIORS LTD
We take pride in our partnership and wish you the heartiest congratulations on your 30th anniversary! (A)The Crescent Business Centre 9th Floor, 28 The Crescent Road, Off Parklands Road, Nairobi (T) +254 734 716594 (E) info@stonehenge-kenya.com (W) www.stonehenge-kenya.com www.constructionreviewonline.com
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PROFILE
Laxmabhai Construction Limited Looking Back at 70 Years of Shaping the Built Environment Established in 1953 by the late Laxmanbhai Bhimji K. Raghwani, Laxmanbhai Construction Limited is among the few construction companies founded before Kenya attained independence that not only managed to survive the transition to self-rule but also achieved monumental growth. The company is synonymous with Kenya’s development journey, having been involved in key projects in every defining historical moment of the country. For seven decades, the company has traversed the industry like a colossus leaving its signature on some of the most iconic buildings in Kenya. Iconic Projects The company’s name is inscribed on many skyscrapers like Britam Towers, Teleposta Tower, Rahimtulla Trust Tower, Lonrho House, Nyayo House among many others. It also has its name in many five-star hotels like The Stanley, English Point Marina, Villa Rosa Kempinski, Hemingways Hotel Karen, Crowne Plaza Hotel Annexe among others. Laxmanbhai is also the contractor behind many iconic buildings such as I&M Headquarters, The Hub Kar-
en, Westend Towers, Westgate Mall, UN Office Facility among many others. For institutions and common buildings, a mention of any international school is most likely to evoke the name Laxmanbhai. These range from Brookhouse International School, Gems International School, Aga Khan Academy, Aga Khan University Centre among many more. For residential and apartments, the company is behind such projects as Garden City Residences, Laxcon Court, Bamburi Beach Homes among many others. For Laxmanbhai, being the preferred contractor for these iconic projects has come by design and through years of pursuit of perfection. Notably, Kenya’s building and construction industry has over the past two decades witnessed significant growth particularly in the commercial and residential segments. Over the period, factors like aesthetics, breathtaking interiors, wide open space, recreation space among others are increasingly being incorporated in building to offer a wholesome experience. For most contractors, it is a challenge to deliver on every attribute beyond the structural aspect of the project. Indeed, the industry is awash with cases whereby clients have been forced to replace contractors midstream or redo whole sec-
Laxmanbhai Directors. From left: Mr Arvind M. Raghwani, Mr Virji K. Raghwani, Mr Manji K. Raghwani (Managing), Mr. Ramji K. Raghwani and Mr Khusal R. Raghvani 34
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PROFILE
tions. The case is different for Laxmanbhai. Through training of staff, commitment to detail and investment in the right equipment, the company has always delivered projects beyond the satisfaction of clients. A case in point was the construction of the 20-storey Lonrho House, a project that was executed in the middle of the central business district while some of the occupants carried on with their businesses. Implementing the project was a monumental undertaking for Laxmanbhai. Despite the complex, delicate and dangerous nature of the job, the company did manage to complete the project in record time and within budget. “Lonrho House was a tough job but is among those that we are proud of delivering,” avers Mr Manji. “Wherever we work, our clients and consultants value our trademark commitment to excellence, quality, innovation, sustainability and safety,” explains Mr Manji Raghwani, Managing Director. He adds that the company has built a reputation of deploying its full range of expertise and collaborating with both clients and consultants to deliver successful projects that consistently set new benchmarks in the construction industry. That Laxmanbhai takes pride in delivering unparalleled, high-quality workmanship and services, and is determined to consistently exceed the expectations of the industry is evident. Unlike many contractors, the company has invested heavily in personnel, equipment and machinery. The contractor believes that in order to be able to serve clients effectively and finish projects on time, investment in new and modern equipment is inevitable. State-of-the-art Equipment “To deliver quality projects you must be in a position to mobilize the appropriate equipment. This is why we have an arsenal of equipment for every kind of project,” states Mr Manji. He adds that the company’s portfolio of equipment includes specialized concrete pumps, concrete batching plants, earth movers, trucks, excavators, tower cranes, mobile cranes and slip-form equipment, welding machines, hydraulic breakers, air compressors and generators that allow the company to offer tailored and continuous onsite service across the country.
While assembling the necessary equipment is critical, having the right personnel is paramount. According to Mr Manji, the success of Laxmanbhai is to a high degree a result of dedicated staff from the top management to the lowest cadre. The commitment of the company to treat employees as valued assets has paid off handsomely particularly when it comes to project delivery. “In this industry you need a team that is committed and motivated,” he asserts, adding that employees play a major role in ensuring projects are delivered on time and on budget. They are even more important in massive projects where coordination and seamless working is critically needed to guarantee that projects meet the expectations of clients. All Clients Treated Equally For the company, which has implemented projects with a price tag as high as KSh4.9 billion and as low as KSh2 million, theirs is no distinction in terms of project delivery. “All clients are valuable to us and we aim to deliver to the expectations of each client,” avers Mr Manji. He adds that the tenets of treating all clients in the same way have been passed down from the company’s founders and will continue to define Laxmanbhai for years to come. In fact, this principle has been instrumental in guaranteeing repeat clients for Laxmanbhai. “We have managed to grow immensely because of repeat clients,” explains Mr Manji, adding that in the building and construction industry, word of mouth and referrals is more important than just tendering for projects. It is not hard to see why word of mouth and referrals play a central role in the industry. Though flooded with construction companies, all projects originate from consultants. In Kenya, a handful of consultancy firms dominate major projects. For these firms, working with a seasoned and trustworthy contractor is often the bottomline, with Laxmanbhai being the first choice for many of them owing to the company’s rich history. “We have a very cordial working relationship with consultants and most will not hesitate to choose or recommend us for any project,” says Mr Manji. He adds that while disputes are bound to arise in some projects, having a win-win mechanism of resolving them has been crucial in safeguarding long-term working relationships. This explains why
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Laxmanbhai has continuously worked with a lean set of consultants in its portfolio of projects. Partnership with Government in Affordable Housing One area of opportunity that Laxmanbhai is determined to exploit is the government’s affordable housing project. This is based on the understanding that the government’s plan to build 200,000 affordable houses annually is not only timely but critical in addressing the severe housing deficit.
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More importantly, the plan will help address the problem of informal settlements by affording a majority of Kenyans with decent homes. As a company that believes in human dignity, Laxmanbhai intends to partner with the government to advance the housing agenda. “The affordable housing plan is about the country’s socio-development and for that reason we intend to help the government to ensure the goals are realized,” explains Mr Manji. He adds the fact that the government is giving opportunities to local companies is something to celebrate. Challenges While Laxmanbhai is undoubtedly a force to reckon with, it has not been an easy journey over the past seven decades. Being older than Kenya, the company has witnessed the political and socio-economic transformation of the country, and contributing at every stage in the development of the construction industry. However, factors like economic upheavals, regulatory environment changes, onset of devolved system of governance among others have brought about significant impacts not only on Laxmanbhai but across the entire building and construction industry value chain. “Economic downtowns for instance make it difficult for clients to access financing for projects and this does affect us,” notes Mr Manji. He adds that building strong shock absorbers, coupled by years of experience, has helped Laxmanbhai weather storms and remain on top of its game. Ready for the Future Having grown to become one of the powerhouse contractors in Kenya, Laxmanbhai is confident of the future. The company, which is involved in many corporate social responsibility projects including school feeding programs for the needy and employee empowerment, has no intentions to sit on its laurels. This explains why the company has continued to evolve with the building and construction industry in terms of technology advancement and particularly in the area of sustainability and green projects. “We continue investing in technology and training our staff on the latest developments,” notes Mr Manji. He adds the company is committed to continue enhancing its capabilities to ensure that it remains at the forefront of the industry by providing clients with worldclass services. www.constructionreviewonline.com
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