Construction and Civil Engineering Issue 111 Final Edition

TH E

M AGAZINE

FOR

IN DUST RIA L

LE ADER S

ISSUE 111 FINAL

CONSTRUCTION

&CIVIL Engineering Hands-on

approach Finding and engaging the ‘right’ sub-contractor See page 20

The London highend property market and how to create the most attractive development

News: The Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership has been named Public-Private Partnership of the Year

Why considerate construction principles are being applied to major projects

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2 0 Cov

CONTENTS

er story

FEATURES

Chairman Andrew Schofield

Major Project 2 London has always been a desirable location for high-end purchasers – but how can developers really create the ‘wow’ factor?

Group Managing Director Mike Tulloch Editor Libbie Hammond

NEWS 7, 11, 17

libbie@schofieldpublishing.co.uk

Updates and information from the construction and civil engineering market

Editorial Design Jon Mee

CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTION 8

Advertising Design Fleur Daniels

2

Staff Writers Matt High Jo Cooper Steve Nash Andrew Dann

CASE STUDY 12 Increasing numbers of businesses are turning to innovative water recycling technology to reduce their water consumption and lessen their environmental impact

Editorial Admin Matt High Head of Research Philip Monument Editorial Researchers Keith Hope Gavin Watson Tarj Kaur-D’Silva Mark Cowles Laura Watling Tony Wright Sales Director David Garner Sales David King Mark Cawston

LIGHTING 14 A new lighting solution is bringing lower costs, reduced emissions and more efficient energy consumption to a warehouse in Leeds

12

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 18 The potential benefits of getting rid of paper forms from mobile teams are immense. Yet, why is it that many organisations have still made little or no progress?

14

SPECIAL FEATURE 20 Julie Wood discusses how clients can find the best subcontractors and why taking an engaged approach with them can help create a high-performing team

Production/Office Manager Tracy Chynoweth

COMPANY PROFILES

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Considerate constructors go that extra mile to ensure that the impact of their construction activity is minimised for those living or working nearby, and they communicate with, engage and support the community, as Edward Hardy, chief executive of the Scheme, explains

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Spie Fondations 24 Travis Perkins 29 Atlas Copco Meyco 38 CRH Structural Concrete 41 ENGCON 46 McGRATH GROUP 50 WALTER LILLY 54 Pinnacle Consulting Engineering 59 Junttan 63 SANDVIK CONSTRUCTION 66 Sprayed cONCRETE ASSOCIATION 72 LANCASTER EARTHMOVING 75 ROCKWOOL 78

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Construction & Civil Engineering 1

Major project

capital idea A

Tooley Street

The property market in London has always been one to watch. Eleri Lloyd discusses the luxury end of the sector, where buyers demand the highest standards

2 Construction & Civil Engineering

D

oug Shepherd, director of Home. co.uk recently described the last year as ‘staggering’ for property prices in London, and recent research from Pastor Real estate, compared the prime residential property markets in central London with Monaco - with both representing Europe’s leading locations for luxury property.

The analysis of both markets released in September 2014 revealed both locations cover similar land

areas, are experiencing a huge global demand and have upward pressure on property values due to their locations.

Pastor Real Estate says that buyers are attracted to them because of their political stability, advantageous tax regimes, concentration of luxury hotels and shopping facilities and ultra-prime residential markets.

Therefore it is no surprise that the area sometimes called ‘super prime central London’ (Mayfair, Knightsbridge and Belgravia) is where developers are creating

Master en-suite

Basement

properties with the exceptionally highquality finish and services that buyers with multi-million pound budgets demand.

One such developer is Landmass, and Eleri Lloyd, senior interior designer at the firm noted that prices in the capital have been growing exponentially since the 2007 crash, and buyers are now beginning to become increasingly reticent to match the escalating valuations. “The market in London will always be eventful; it is of course the international city of the world,” she said. “Additionally,

the world appears to be becoming a more and more dangerous place, and those in a comfortable financial position are seeking residency in London. Ultimately, this is a factor that will dictate how the top of the market moves.

“Some areas continue to outpace others but what is clear is that buyers are now becoming more patient. Nevertheless, The Bank of England has confirmed mortgage lending across the UK as a whole has kept growing, which testifies to how property is still very much a

robust market.”

Eleri also noted that there are signs of uncertainty in central London’s prime property market with the forthcoming election. “The whispers of mansion tax have meant those buying around the £2 million+ mark are becoming somewhat nervous,” she said. “This does have negative connotations for homeowners, and buyers have every right to be cautious.”

As purchasers become more circumspect, simply offering a property with the right ‘location,

Construction & Civil Engineering 3

MAJOR PROJECT

Exterior

these inclusions can almost be regarded as ‘standard’ and as a result Landmass takes a different view of ‘luxury’ to stand out from the market. “The others talk about tangible luxury, such as finishes and specifications, but we believe the ultimate luxury is intangible – it’s how you create the ‘wow factor’ from a space,” said Eleri. “With technology being forever updated, it is important to always install future proof features. But we pride ourselves in not having a set ‘in-house style’, which enables

view Cut through

location, location’ is not going to be enough to tempt them to part with what is often millions of pounds.

As Eleri noted, common high-end requirements include bespoke fireplaces, iPad controls, Gaggenau appliances and countless other gadgets and features. However, in properties at this end of the scale, Stairs

4 Construction & Civil Engineering

our designs to be tailored to each property. Our objective is to design timeless interiors complimented by beautiful features, which do not detract from the space we have created. We believe the most desirable homes are those in which space and light flow seamlessly throughout.” In fact, Landmass believes its approach has changed the perception of how London property should be designed.

Indeed, one recent project does reinforce this assertion – its Belgravia Mews House is short listed for Best Reception

Master bedroom

Residential Property 2014. “Our recently completed Belgravia Mews House is a wonderful example of innovative space planning and luxury interior design,” said Eleri.

“The creative introduction of natural light makes for an extraordinarily well lit mews development. The retractable glass ceiling above part of the reception room with glass flooring allows light to flow directly into the lower ground floor which commands a ceiling height of 3.2 metres. We ensured that every inch of space within the property is used Stairs to roof terrace

to its best potential. It was no surprise when the house achieved £6.9m, a record selling price for a single mews house.”

Referring back to the research

by Pastor Real Estate noted earlier, another characteristic shared by London and Monaco’s residential market is the constraint placed upon them by planning regulations, protected historic buildings and geography. Geographical restrictions in London include the protected Royal parks, the Thames and protected views. Eleri noted that working across

London means that Landmass comes into contact with several different planning authorities and each is different – there isn’t one formula that can address all issues and this is compounded by frequent updates in regulation and legislation. “We find that establishing a good working relationship with officers whereby there is a mutual understanding of objectives is the best foundation,” she said. “In our experience, this approach will always result in a practical decision.”

The prime areas of London

Roof terrace

Construction & Civil Engineering 5

MAJOR PROJECT

have enjoyed a strong period of growth, and while this may now be slowing, or even deflating (reports in September from Home.co.uk stated that prime London property prices are starting to fall) there is still activity, albeit more cautious.

There are also signs that other areas of London are growing instead - Lucian Cook, Savills UK head of residential research claims that “it is the markets of Islington, Canary Wharf and Wapping that have proved the most resilient, having seen double digit price growth in the first nine months of this year despite a slowing in the traditionally quieter summer period.”

Eleri also highlighted developments outside the super prime area as those to watch going forward, and noted that these projects have a lot of benefits to bring to London: “We would draw attention to the array of high-rise developments mushrooming across the capital,” she concluded. “The pace and scale of skyscraper developments

Basement

6 Construction & Civil Engineering

Fire and TV especially south of the Thames may be alarming local residents [and the Mayor of London] but these are very much the future of regenerating unloved areas of London.” m

www.landmass.co.uk

NEWS

Capture the moment The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has launched a nationwide photography competition for members of the public to capture images of major infrastructure projects. Entrants are invited to photograph any man-made physical structure, which benefits society, including roads, bridges, water supply systems, telecommunications and energy generating facilities, such as power stations or renewable sources of energy generation.

The competition has been launched to help champion the importance of major infrastructure projects to British society, both now and in the future. The competition is open for entries until the end of the year, and the winner and shortlisted entries will be celebrated in an exhibition, which will open in February 2015.

Roma Agrawal will be chair of the judging panel for the competition. She is an associate structural engineer at WSP in London, and also spent six years working on The Shard, designing the foundations and the ‘Spire’.

Entrants will be in with a chance of winning a £3000 prize for camera equipment, and can enter their photographs by logging onto www.rics.org/uk/footer/rics-infrastructure-photographer-of-the-year/.

The deadline for entries is midnight, Friday 19 December. or more information please email mail@ricsinfrastructure.co.uk.

Missed opportunity Experts from Birmingham City University have criticised the Government’s proposals to build on brownfield sites thousands of new homes that would be exempt from the zero carbon homes standard and other taxes, claiming this is ‘a short-sighted approach that misses a major opportunity to reduce significantly the carbon emissions of much-needed new homes’.

Professor Keith Osman, Director of Research at Birmingham City University, is urging the Government to look longer term and use a more integrated strategy in future planning, an approach currently being pioneered by a pan-European consortium led by the University.

“Ignoring climate change and easing regulations to reduce construction costs in the short term is a false economy for planners when planning to build new homes on this scale. The use of analytic tools demonstrates clearly that reductions in energy usage, which reduces both CO2 emissions and energy costs for the occupants, can always be achieved and should a compulsory requirement for all new build housing.

“The KIC-Transitions (KIC-T) project brings together data, modelling and visualisation tools to provide a comprehensive simulation framework that will assist strategic planning. This integrated platform enables ‘plug-in’ to a wide range of information sets for analysis of key environmental impacts, including energy needs, noise pollution or carbon emissions.

“This highlights just how important our project will be in helping planners to better assess the impact such ambitious proposals will have when built without due enforcement of regulations that minimise environmental impact.”

It’s all in the details The Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG), Zero Carbon Hub, many industry trade organisations and manufacturers have been pushing for packaged construction details showing how the design, specification of materials and construction of construction joints should be accomplished.

‘Construction joints’ are those parts of a building where different elements meet and are joined together. These are the focus of attention because research has shown that these create thermal bridging, which allows heat to leak out and can also create cold spots internally.

As a result, Local Authority Building Control (LABC) and the Modern Masonry Alliance (MMA) have agreed to work together to produce a wider solution to the masonry construction market with a suite of 250 registered masonry construction details designed to minimise heat loss through the weak junction points in a building’s outer envelope. LABC and the MMA agreed deliver this to customers free of charge.

Users will include: architects, plan drawers, developers, housing associations and SAP assessors.

A major reason for creating and publishing registered construction details is that small and medium enterprises may lack the technical knowledge to interpret the building regulations and create a design and specification that will achieve or surpass the required performance standard.

Construction & Civil Engineering 7

CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTION

I

n late 1994, following Sir Michael Latham’s review ‘Constructing the Team’, which looked at procurement and contractual arrangements in the UK construction industry, the Construction Industry Council formed the ‘Latham Review Implementation Forum’. One of the member groups focused on the need to improve the image of the industry. The result was the creation of the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

“The Scheme is a non-profitmaking, independent organisation funded by the industry and recommended by local authorities and the Government. The Scheme is neither grant maintained, nor funded by the Government, and is solely funded by registrations,” explained Edward Hardy, chief executive of the Scheme, by way of introduction. “Construction sites, companies and suppliers voluntarily register with the Scheme and are monitored against a Code of Considerate Practice, which is designed to encourage best practice beyond statutory requirements.”

The Scheme is concerned about any area of construction activity that may have a direct or indirect impact on the image of the industry as a whole. The main areas of concern fall into three categories: the neighbourhood and general

public, the workforce and the environment. To date more than 80,000 sites have signed up. The Olympic Park, Crossrail, The Shard, Media City in Manchester and the 2014 Commonwealth Games Athletes Village in Scotland are just a few of the most recent well-known UK sites to have registered with the Scheme.

In February 2014 the Worshipful Company of Constructors awarded the CCS with a Royal Charter Award for Excellence in Construction. This prestigious accolade was given to the Scheme for demonstrating outstanding performance within the construction industry.

Edward highlighted what it means to be a considerate constructor: “A registered site, company or supplier can make a huge difference to the local community, the wider general

The

considerate

army

The Considerate Constructors Scheme (CCS) started in 1997 and is the national initiative set-up by the construction industry to improve its image. Libbie Hammond spoke to Edward Hardy about the Scheme 8 Construction & Civil Engineering

public, their own workforce and the environment,” he said. “Considerate constructors go that extra mile to ensure that the impact of their construction activity is minimised for those living or working nearby, and they communicate with, engage and support the community. Not only do they become part of the community while they are working on a project, but they leave behind a lasting legacy that benefits generations to come.

“Considerate constructors ensure the workforce is respected and provided with well-maintained and suitable facilities in order to carry out their tasks in a comfortable environment. The skills of the workforce are developed and

supported through learning and training so that the industry can continue to grow for the future.

“Finally, considerate constructors also protect the environment through seeking sustainable solutions, and minimising waste, the carbon footprint and resources.

They will also protect and enhance the local ecology, landscape, wildlife, vegetation and watercourses.”

Now almost two decades old, the CCS has understandably changed and evolved, and continues to do so. As Edward explained, in 2014 it launched its third type of registration – Supplier Registration.

“Supplier Registration allows any company that supplies goods and materials to the industry to sign up to the Scheme and benefit from registration.

“Historically, the Scheme has focused on construction sites and companies but recognises the valuable and vital contribution made by those companies supplying goods and materials to construction sites across the UK,” he continued. “They perform a vital role in the construction process when delivering materials to site

‘‘

The Scheme is concerned about any area of construction activity that may have a direct or indirect impact on the image of the industry as a whole and equally, they have a responsibility to behave in a considerate manner at all times to ensure they portray a positive image of the industry they represent.

“The Scheme’s Code of Considerate Practice applies equally to these suppliers as it does to registered sites and companies, but a new bespoke Checklist has been developed to better reflect the specific nature of these operations, particularly the element of deliveries to and from sites.

“The Scheme has already registered a number of supplier companies under Company Registration but

recent conversations with the main contractors and clients have led the Scheme to looking more closely at this sector to properly understand their vital role in considerate construction.

“With the option of registering the construction site, those who carry out work on them and those who supply goods and services, it ensures even more companies in the construction process are operating to the highest of standards, and that the impact of construction activity across the project is minimised.

“The Scheme hopes that suppliers will see this as an ideal opportunity to join sites and companies in promoting their considerate credentials and contributing towards improving the image of construction.”

With the launch of Supplier Registration in 2014, next year will see the Scheme introduce the first National Supplier Awards. These will be added to the Scheme’s annual National Site Awards, which recognise those sites registered with the Scheme that have raised the bar for considerate construction. “Since 1999, the Scheme has been rewarding the UK’s most considerate sites for the contribution they have made towards improving the image

Construction & Civil Engineering 9

CONSIDERATE CONSTRUCTION

of construction. The Scheme looks at the measures a site has put in place to be more considerate towards local neighbourhoods and the public, the workforce, and the environment,” explained Edward. “The awards are attended by thousands of construction industry professionals and presented at numerous ceremonies held at locations across the UK. Sites nominated to receive an award will be presented with Bronze, Silver or Gold.

“Out of the very highest performing Gold Award winners, only one site will be given the prestigious title of Most Considerate Site, while those considered for the title will be presented with Most Considerate Site Runner-up Awards. These sites represent the pinnacle of considerate construction and have set a benchmark for others to follow.

Winning a National Site Award is an exceptional achievement, and recognises those sites that have made the greatest contribution towards improving the image of construction.”

In 2014, the Scheme presented 384 Bronze, 264 Silver and 90 Gold Awards in front of over 3000 guests across 12 ceremonies held throughout the UK. From the Gold Award winners, 27 sites were presented with the title of Most Considerate Site Runner-up and Carillion Construction Ltd’s One St Peter’s Square project in Manchester was named as this year’s Most Considerate Site.

Alongside recognising sites that have excelled over the year, the Scheme runs a ‘Spotlight on…’ initiative, which aims to look at different areas associated with improving the image of construction, and hopes to raise awareness among registered sites and companies on how they can help with that specific issue.

The most recent Spotlight is being shone upon the use of language in

10 Construction & Civil Engineering

construction, and how to make those working on sites aware of the language they use. In the past ‘Spotlight on…’ has looked at cycle safety and apprenticeships, and with regards to the latter, Edward noted that this offered a great opportunity to analyse what the industry was doing to encourage new talent in construction to secure its future growth. “There are already a number of campaigns offered throughout the UK, and many opportunities within construction, but there is still much that can be done to attract new talent into the industry. The response the Scheme received from the industry once ‘Spotlight on...apprenticeships’ launched was fantastic, with many sites and companies getting in touch and promoting what they are doing with apprentices,” he said, adding: “Bam shared a number of case studies on their apprenticeship schemes while Balfour Beatty also provided numerous profiles on their apprenticeships in a wide variety of roles. As part of Scottish Apprenticeship Week, George Hood, Balfour Beatty’s managing director Northern Scotland, swapped roles with apprentice joiner Matthew Jolly, and Pochin Construction supplied case studies on four apprentices thriving in construction, as did Morgan Sindall who presents awards to their highest performing apprentices.”

Another exciting development on the agenda for the Scheme is the Best Practice Hub, which has a planned launch date of early December. The Hub will be an

online resource run by the Scheme, which provides advice and guidance on best practice, related to the Scheme’s Code, and will be available to anyone interested in developing their working practices to improve the image of construction. Edward noted the Scheme’s vision for how this will work: “In 2016, the Scheme will look to offer an advisory service to contractors and clients on how to achieve best practice using the information taken from the Best Practice Hub. This will include a demonstration on how to use the Hub, as well as discussions with a Scheme Monitor on how to implement best practice on site.

“Continuing with this theme, additional training events will be developed so that registered sites, companies and suppliers have access to a number of extra resources to help them develop their working practices and improve their considerate performance.”

Since the Considerate Constructors Scheme was launched, it has made great strides in registering, monitoring and awarding construction sites, companies and now suppliers. The strategy for the next five years focuses on developing recognition and understanding in areas where the Scheme has limited penetration and to develop a comprehensive advice and guidance service [of which the Best Practice Hub plays a pivotal role.] The board has bold plans in place to take the Scheme forward, but the underlying message remains the same – to continue to improve the image of construction and celebrate and reward the registered sites, companies and suppliers, as well as the clients, for the hard work and continued commitment they have all shown in working towards this shared goal. m

www.ccscheme.org.uk

NEWS

Raise the roof Energy from waste (EFW) is a growing industry and roofing specialists M.R. Site Services is increasingly involved in this sector.

One recent project has been at the Four Ashes project in Staffordshire managed by Veolia.

The £1 billion PFI-funded residual waste treatment and disposal plant has a capacity to service 300,000 tonnes of waste per year. This volume is provided by residual household waste from Staffordshire, Sandwell, Warwickshire and Walsall, so generating some 23MW of electricity for the National Grid, enough to power around 32,000 homes.

M.R. Site Services worked on the new plant’s roof with roofing contractors Northern Cladding Ltd providing specialist aluminium welding to create 28 inner and outer soakers on the stucco embossed Euroclad aluminium roofing. The company also completed nearly 110 metres of endlap detail welding, also installing an access hatch.

Completing the roofing work was the supply and installation of

Losing over £6.5m in commission?

71 metres of M.R. Site Services’ Quantum Walkway system plus 111 metres of mansafe line with anchor points, handrails and gates.

The project with its spiral shaped roof presented quite a challenge with its 40-metre high point dropping down with 20 metres of curved roofing. Despite the challenges, Peter Spink, Contracts Director for Northern Cladding was very impressed with M.R. Site Services’ work commenting: “The company did a cracking job on the gate house with its awkward shaped oval roof. The pitch of the building’s main roof and its two chimneys made life quite difficult but the team got on with the project making it a hassle-free job.”

PPP of the year The Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership has been named Public-Private Partnership of the Year in the MIPIM UK/Estates Gazette Awards. The Awards recognise developers and their public and private sector partners for their contributions to revitalising cities and towns cross the UK. The Partnership, established in 2010, includes over 200 people and is arguably the largest body of this nature in the UK; comprising of world-class developers, two local councils - Wandsworth and Lambeth, Transport for London and the Greater London Authority. Developers include Ballymore Group, Battersea Power Station Development Company, Barratt London, St James Group, City Grove, CLS Holdings, VINCI St Modwen and Wanda One (UK) to name a few.

Already home to Battersea Power Station and New Covent Garden Market, Nine Elms on the South Bank will also become home to the new U.S. Embassy and new Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and a new town centre at Vauxhall. Underutilised industrial land is making way for new public squares, parks, schools, Tube stations, homes, and businesses, which will drive growth and create jobs and homes.

Councillor Ravi Govindia, co-chair of the Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership and Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “From securing a £1bn financial guarantee from the Treasury, to planning a district-wide network of parks and gardens – this partnership has proved it can deliver.”

UK commercial property agents are set to lose millions more in commission on capital allowances according to specialists Catax Solutions.

Analysis of recent HMRC figures by Catax shows that of all commercial properties sold since the 2012 Finance Bill was introduced, approximately 5510 were eligible for tax relief.

With the average commercial property in the UK selling for an estimated £500,000, an agent could expect to receive a commission of around £1,200 for a single transaction. But, with as little as one per cent of sales having had any relief claimed against them, it is estimated commercial agents have lost £6.5m in commission.

The figures for the capital are even more startling. With the average commercial property transaction currently around £4,000,000, a commercial property agent could be foregoing a staggering £9,600 for every deal.

Mark Tighe, managing director, Catax Solutions commented: “Just as commercial property owners can’t afford to be missing out on sizeable tax rebates, agents can’t afford to miss out on commissions that could potentially be the difference between the success and failure of their business.

“While previously it was possible to recover that lost commission retrospectively, this is no longer an option.

Legislation that came into effect in April included an expiry date on the time that capital allowances could be claimed. As a result, if they aren’t identified at the point of sale, they could be lost forever.”

Construction & Civil Engineering 11

CASE STUDY

I greywater The

Stephen Bates explores the increasing popularity of greywater recycling among British business

12 Construction & Civil Engineering

is rising

ncreasing numbers of businesses are turning to innovative water recycling technology to reduce their water consumption and lessen their environmental impact.

These systems enable the collection of wastewater (so called ‘greywater’) from sinks, baths and showers and recycle it for use in flushing toilets. A revised plumbing set-up redirects the wastewater through a filtration unit where it is automatically treated with a disinfectant. This treated water is collected in a tank and pumped on,

‘‘ Stephen Bates

as required, to supply all the flushing water needs for multiple toilets in a building.

A diverse range of businesses, from architects to leisure centres, are now seeing the economic and environmental value of the technology, which reduces the mains water needs of a building by up to 30 per cent.

London-based, award-winning architectural practice, David Morley Architects is among an increasing number of businesses to fit the technology in their commercial premises.

Camilla Morley, David Morley Architects’ environmental development consultant, commented: “Our demand for hot water has increased over the past three years as we have been encouraging a cycle to work policy, supported by additional new inoffice showering facilities for our staff. As a company that keeps abreast of progress in sustainable development in all areas of our work, we felt it was both economically and environmentally sensible to fit this technology and an opportunity to set a positive example to our clients.

“The reAqua system reduces our water consumption by up to 30 per cent by recycling the shower water on the office first floor to flush the two toilets downstairs, supporting our ‘more with less’ approach to design.”

As most buildings in the UK have only one water supply, up until now

“The reAqua system reduces our water consumption by up to 30 per cent by recycling the shower water on the office first floor to flush the two toilets downstairs, supporting our ‘more with less’ approach to design.”

there has been little option but to put up with the confused logic of using drinking quality water to flush toilets. The costs associated with the water treatment process, both financially and environmentally in terms of the energy used, are significant and greywater reuse technology represents an immediate and simple way to reduce water demand across the UK. With more and more employees cycling to work, and requiring a shower when they arrive, increasing numbers of businesses are turning to this technology to cut costs associated with water usage, as well as improving their sustainability profile.

Prior to the introduction of this technology, water efficiencies have been a challenge to achieve for businesses. Water rationing technologies, such as low flow showers and low flush toilets, have attracted criticism. Consumer feedback has queried the value of this technology with critics highlighting disappointingly low flow rates from showers or, worse, blocked waste pipes.

Research has shown that using low-flush toilets may not provide sufficient movement in small pipes to carry away solids, leading to blockages and flooding, and additional evidence suggests that these devices may act as a false economy with users running low flow showers for longer in order to

improve their experience.

Aside from reducing water consumption, Reaqua also wants to be in tune with the way people choose to wash. Unlike flow restriction technology, which is often criticised for producing an increased risk of blocked sewage pipes and disappointingly low flow rates from showers, greywater reuse offers the industry the chance to make considerable water efficiencies, without relying on the end user to make unpopular adjustments to their habits. Bathing luxury with a conscience has arrived. m

Stephen Bates is CEO of Reaqua Systems. Reaqua Systems Ltd was originally formed by Scottish Southern Energy plc to explore energy reduction and greywater reuse as part of its ventures programme.

Subsequently spun out under investment funding from Scottish Equity Partners and backed by Scottish Enterprise. Reaqua Systems has established a factory in Livingston to serve its UK and overseas customers. For further information, visit: www.reaquasystems.com.

Construction & Civil Engineering 13

LIGHTING

Exciting developments A new lighting solution is bringing lower costs, reduced emissions and more efficient energy consumption to a warehouse in Leeds

L

ighting can have an impressive impact on the working environment, helping to reduce workforce fatigue and improve health and safety conditions, whilst at the same time delivering efficiencies in energy consumption, lower maintenance costs and reduced carbon emissions. Graphic Packaging International has now discovered all these benefits at its Leeds warehouse following the

14 Construction & Civil Engineering

installation of an energy-efficient bespoke lighting solution from High Technology Lighting.

With rising energy prices and increased environmental concerns around energy consumption it’s not surprising that market leading technology companies are developing more energy efficient lighting solutions to meet increased demand. The benefits of LEDs have long been understood but their application has only recently become more widespread as

innovations in lighting controls, including gear trays and drivers, are being developed.

LEDs are efficient and have significantly longer life spans than traditional light sources. For example, a six-watt LED can easily achieve the same light intensity as a 40-watt incandescent bulb, between approximately 450 and 650 lumens. However the LED will last 50 times longer, with a lifespan of over 50,000 hours. It will also only cause 14kg of CO2 compared

savings of up to 80 per cent could be made across the world with a complete switch to energyefficient LEDs and controls. The environmental credentials of LEDs are further enhanced as after their exceptional life span they can be discarded easily as they contain no hazardous materials.

Simple yet effective change

with its equivalent traditional 40watt light bulb, which if left on for the same ten hours a day, will cause 89kg of CO2 emissions per year.

By changing a building’s lighting to LEDs and the latest control solutions its carbon footprint can be reduced by as much as 85 per cent.

On an international scale lighting produces an estimated 1.9 billion tonnes of carbon annually, accounting for one fifth of the global electricity use. According to the International Energy Agency

For each individual business that makes this simple yet effective change the benefits can be realised immediately, in fact, as soon as the lights are switched on. LEDs are not only more energy efficient, but they also give a better quality of light, which can be directed. Workforce productivity and well-being is enhanced in a well lit environment as the ‘feel’ of a building is improved. This is not always easy to accomplish in a building without natural daylight but a well-designed lighting solution can overcome this challenge.

Sustainability is at the heart of Graphic Packaging International’s operations throughout all the company’s sites across the world, from the Pacific Rim to Latin

America. As one of the world’s largest manufacturers of folding cartons, unbleached paperboard, coated recycled board, microwave packaging and machinery its global reach has an impact worldwide. The company is committed to producing materials that are recyclable, from renewable resources and acting with responsibility. This environmental awareness includes a commitment to operate more energy efficient sites.

At the packaging facility in Leeds, High Technology Lighting developed a lighting solution with bespoke LED gear trays that incorporated Tridonic Stark technology to be installed within the framework of the facility’s existing canopy lights. This new system replaced the traditional 400W metal halide lighting, which was inefficient and incapable of providing the high quality of light required. The new lighting solution now provides 22,500 lumens and colour temperature of 4,000K. Eyestrain and other issues related to workforce fatigue as result of poor quality lighting have been reduced, thanks to the excellent colourrendering index of up to 80, designed to give a more natural light. This has also aided visibility, giving additional

Construction & Civil Engineering 15

LiGHTING

health and safety benefits, helping in the fulfilment of the company’s highest plant priority.

Substantial electrical savings of 50 per cent have been achieved with the system that delivers efficiency of up to 111lm/W. Significant savings on maintenance will also be made by the 350 bespoke fittings installed across the 12,000m2 facility as they will outlast their traditional counterparts by years. Even after 50,000 hours of operation the Tridonic Stark LLE board will still be operating at only 25 per cent reduction in light output; whereas in the same time span the former technology would have had to be replaced four or five times. The new technology saves on the costs of replacement as well as labour and disruption to production.

The projected payback of the scheme is under two years.

Sustainability targets This new lighting solution delivers energy efficiency savings that will help the company achieve its ambitious sustainability targets,

16 Construction & Civil Engineering

including the reduction of its carbon emissions by 15 per cent by 2016 from its 2008 base rate.

This impressive improvement in performance has all been achieved in a site that has no natural daylight and a high ceiling.

By taking the time to understand the needs of each customer, looking at the premises, working hours, access to daylight, if any, number of staff and the type of work undertaken in the facility the professional lighting engineers at High Technology Lighting are able to provide advice on the best lighting solution. With decades of experience between them, of working with architects, designers and consulting engineers, the team bring not only a wealth of knowledge in the innovation and application of light, but also an enthusiasm for each new challenge.

With this level of experience at their disposal each customer can be assured that the High Technology Lighting team understands the pressures of time and budget; the need to get the right design for

the right price, to deliver long term sustainability and lower running costs. The installation at Graphic Packaging International’s site in Leeds has delivered an energy efficient lighting solution that has significantly reduced energy consumption and lowered carbon emissions. This has all been achieved in addition to offering the workforce a better-lit environment in which to operate. m

High Technology Lighting was established in 1982.

It offers complete lighting packages, from design through to installation. The company has installed its products across a range of diverse applications, including retail and commercial premises, as well as heritage sites, such as York Minster.

For further information, visit:

www.hightechnology lighting.com

NEWS

Back to school Integrated support services and construction company Carillion has become a partner of the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS).

Established last year, the School (www.supplychainschool.co.uk) aims to help construction suppliers and subcontractors develop their sustainability knowledge and competence.

Designed to help address the challenges faced by the construction industry, and to help the supply chain benefit from the many new sustainable business opportunities, SCSS represents a common approach to promoting sustainability across a diverse sector. So far it has attracted more than 2500 members from 1200 supplier organisations.

Carillion’s decision to support the School as a partner strengthens further its position as a leader in sustainability, and in delivering sustainable solutions for customers and partners.

Tom Robinson, Carillion’s chief sustainability officer, said: “We have

Consortium secures funding

a well defined sustainability strategy focused around the development of low energy solutions, promoting renewable energies, training and education of key stakeholders and the creation of lasting, transparent relations with our partners. Success depends entirely on having a shared vision with our supply chain and working collectively toward the same goal. We are therefore delighted to sign up to the School; it’s an ideal platform for us to support our supply chain sub-contractors, to demonstrate the strength of our commitment to them and to drive forward the critical role sustainability has to play in our collective future.”

Disconnect between agenda and infrastructure A renewed focus on local transport infrastructure is needed if the UK is to successfully meet growing housing demand, according to Turley.

Party conference commitments to build hundreds of thousands of new homes across the UK are good news for the economic and social health of the country. However, the national planning consultant has urged the next government to support the UK’s vital need for more housing with a co-ordinated, forward thinking infrastructure plan.

Greg Dickson, associate director for Turley, said: “It is good news that there seems to be cross-party support for house building, which is clearly a top priority in the run up to the next election. Yet noticeable by its absence is mention of the infrastructure that is required to support it. We are concerned that there is a growing disconnect between the policy makers’ growth agenda for housing and respect given to the necessary infrastructure that supports it.”

National planning guidance currently falls short of advising on specific locations where infrastructure is required. Furthermore, local authorities faced with budget cuts do not have the resources to prepare plans that consider strategic cross-boundary requirements for infrastructure. Dickson concluded: “Retrenchment and the removal of regional strategies have made it harder for councils to establish and meet their own infrastructure ambitions. It is clear that certain areas of the country are getting a better deal than others.

“The next government must develop a clear plan to increase the infrastructure capability of our cities and regions if it is to unlock and deliver co-ordinated housing growth across the UK.”

A consortium comprising The GB Group, Marick Real Estate and two private shareholders has secured funding to develop a 190-bed Hampton

by Hilton hotel in Docklands.

GB London Dockside has secured private sector funding, including £20m from Topland, for the scheme next door to London City Airport at the Royal Albert Dock, where ambitious plans have been given the go-ahead as part of an extensive businessled regeneration of the area.

Brandon Riley, director of hotels at GB Group, said: “This is an exciting development in one of the capital’s prime regeneration locations, and we’re delighted to be working once again with Hilton Worldwide.

“The team has worked hard to deliver this scheme in an area that looks set to become one of the most sought after locations in London.

We look forward to working closely with all our partners to create a world-class hotel for business and leisure travellers.”

Nick Sinfield, director of Marick Real Estate, said: “This area is set to become London’s third business district and the addition of such a renowned international brand further demonstrates the growth opportunity in this region.

We’re pleased to continue our work with Hilton Worldwide and build on our successful projects with them in Waterloo and Gatwick.

We look forward to working alongside GB Group on such an important development.”

Construction & Civil Engineering 17

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Onform Paper replacement is a common ambition across the construction sector, says Tim Howard

D

ay in day out, mobile workers use paper forms to capture structured information which is then either re-keyed, scanned or posted – or simply filed where it is difficult to access by anyone other than the person who filed it.

Forms cover a vast array of activities including quality audits, SHE surveys, inspections, change requests, condition reports and asset audits.

From a management perspective, paper forms slow down service, increase costs, make information difficult to share and make compliance difficult to manage. To quote one senior manager from the sector I was discussing the issue with just the other day – getting rid of paper from their mobile staff is a very, very ‘hot’ topic.

There have been numerous studies to calculate the cost of managing and processing paper forms for mobile workers – some putting it in the range of £2 per A4 page. Doing

18 Construction & Civil Engineering

the maths shows that the traditional cost of processing paper forms and associated data for 20 field workers each completing just 12 A4 pages per day is estimated at a staggering £100,000 per year.

The potential benefits of getting rid of paper forms from mobile teams are immense. And yet, why is it that many organisations I speak to have still made little or no progress, despite the fact that we’re in an age where mobile devices are everywhere and where mobile connectivity has never been better.

There seems to be a range of common reasons: l Concerns about providing ‘consumer’ type tablets and devices to field staff – particularly in more demanding site environments. l Shortage of experience with the leading mobile platforms - Android and iOS. Most businesses’ IT teams are Microsoft oriented. l Fear of making the wrong choice of device type/platform. l Perceived difficulty in achieving

the required ROI – particularly for smaller teams of users with their own specific requirements. l A tendency to want to build ‘inhouse’ solutions which with long lead times and high delivery risks. l A lack of awareness of the offthe-shelf business applications and cloud services available l Trying for the 110 per cent solution (or trying to eat the elephant in one go.)

Despite these barriers, we’ve had a great deal of interest and success with businesses operating at the sharp end of construction – people in the field, and mobile workers who want to replace their paperwork, toolbox talk records, site inspections, SHE audits or quality reviews with electronic records.

By way of example, Rockwool, the world’s leading manufacturer of stone wool insulation, wanted to replace the site paperwork for its installation and delivery team. The project included the digitisation

of 14 regularly used data capture forms for a relatively small team of ten staff. Using iPad forms they have cut paperwork, improved response times, improved data sharing and the provision of real time information for managers.

The ability to capture and embed images within their forms has added clarity to the information for both customers and managers.

And the fate of the iPads in a tough environment – well, they’re still running happily a year on.

We’ve found this with all of our deployments. Because the iPad is such a useful tool for the field team, the users look after them. And there are a wide range of tough cases available these days to protect the device.

Although we have much larger mobile deployments, I cite the Rockwool example simply because it is a small team – which is usually the death knell for IT projects, as the potential benefits to offset the set up costs are lower. We were able to deliver the project with a good ROI for a number of reasons: l Our Formworks data capture platform is configurable – forms can be set up and deployed using simple drag and drop tools via a web interface (no programming required!) l Because the solution is cloud based – there are no server set up costs l Exported documents and integration are fully configurable l iPads are standard, off-the-shelf, easy-to-use, reliable and most people have some knowledge of them so training is relatively quick.

It’s not large organisations that are leading the way in the takeup of the lightweight ‘consumer’ tablets for their mobile teams. We’re finding that smaller businesses are quicker on the uptake – taking advantage of a wide range of readyto-use Apps, platforms and cloud services – such as Box, Dropbox, Google Drive and Formworks to transform their data capture, information sharing and data

management. Standard, business ready products mean that smaller organisations and teams can get up and running very quickly, at relatively low cost – and get a really rapid payback. In addition, Mobile Device Management (MDM) applications are making it easier to lock devices down and manage data security.

Practically speaking, with our data capture applications, we can get organisation’s paper processes digitised in days and weeks rather than months. It is often the decisionmaking process within organisations that slow everything down rather than the implementation. Which is why smaller businesses often move more quickly, as the chain of decision is much shorter.

And the advantage of using a device like the iPad is that it is easy to use and familiar to many people because they often use iOS devices at home. So training times are low and fear of using the devices much lower than in the past.

We’ve also found the iPad to be extremely reliable, making support easier and running costs lower.

This in conjunction with its secure architecture, it’s not surprising therefore that, according the Good Technology Mobility Index Report Q1 2014, that iPad activations are outstripping Android tablets by 9:1 amongst their enterprise customer base. Windows devices represent just one per cent of activations.

Our clients adopting iPads to improve their mobile data capture have found the process relatively painless providing the following steps are taken: 1. Keep it simple – start with a straightforward business application and focus on the key issues – the 80/20 rule stands 2. Utilise off-the-shelf business apps from reputable suppliers – so that you can get to market quickly 3. Utilise reputable off-the-shelf cloud services to store and share information 4. Choose apps that are configurable and have good integration capability 5. Keep integration points to a

‘‘

We’re finding that smaller businesses are quicker on the uptake – taking advantage of a wide range of ready-to-use Apps, platforms and cloud services minimum until the solution is proven in the field 6. Trial it early – get the device and application into the hands of the field team as soon as possible – and act on the feedback. Make sure that the App makes life easier for the field team, if not it won’t fly.

We’ve found this approach to be of particular relevance in the construction and FM sectors where the mobile workforce is often fragmented into many small teams with slightly different requirements – where a bespoke development would be too costly relative to the potential benefits. It of course requires a central strategic approach to selecting the mobile platform, cloud services and business Apps – so that departments and teams can select from a range of options previously vetted by the IT function. m

Tim Howard is a founding director of Digital Field Solutions, alongside Barry Wetherilt.

The company grew out of their experiences at one of the world’s leading claims management organisations, where, in 2004, a digital pen and paper solution was introduced to help field staff quickly and simply collect claims data in the field, with dramatic results. Digital Field Solutions has since delivered Enterprise Class mobile data capture solutions to clients across a broad range of sectors including: financial services, healthcare, property, utilities, training, maintenance and manufacturing. For further information visit:

www.digitalfieldsolutions.com.

Construction & Civil Engineering 19

SPECIAL FEATURE

(c) Arup

Australian Turf Club, QE2 Stand, Sydney, Australia

Ahands-on approach

S

Finding and engaging the ‘right’ sub-contractor by Julie Wood

ub-contractors carry out a large proportion of the work undertaken on construction projects, so selecting the right subcontractor contributes significantly to success. With over 25 years in the construction industry, working on complex building projects, I place significant value on the contribution

20 Construction & Civil Engineering

Julie Wood

that trade sub-contractors make.

However, over the course of my career, I have seen some clients and project managers have less ‘day to day’ contact with the trades who do the work. Left unchecked this can, at best, become a lost opportunity and, at worst, have a detrimental effect on the project Today, main contractors generally

undertake less direct labour than was historically common. Subcontractors form the core production workforce on site; yet some clients and project managers are often one step removed from this important area of the supply chain. It’s crucial to know what the actual position of a project is - with respect to labour, time and cost. So when I am working with clients, one of my main priorities is to help them to procure the right construction team – ensuring that the project gets a credible main contractor and the ‘right’ key subcontractors.

So how can clients find the ‘right’ sub-contractor? On a project that has many sub-contractors, it is best to identify those that are pivotal to

A30 Canada

‘‘ (c) Arup

Getting the ‘right’ sub-contractors can be the key to setting the right project ethos and in turn will create a high performing project team

the success of the project. Generally there are fewer than ten key subcontractors on a project. Typically they comprise work packages that have a significant number of dependencies, are integral to the performance of the building or feature in instances where it would be difficult to source an alternative supplier – such as structures, cladding, and mechanical and electrical (M&E) services.

A number of large contractors have relatively well-established supply chains and some main contractors and specialist trade contractors have the same parent company. The result of this can be that it is difficult to encourage independent trade contractors to tender projects but by

establishing a ‘packaging strategy’ it can make tendering attractive to both larger sub-contractors and more niche players - resulting in broader interest across the supply chain. For example, on a complex, heavily-serviced building, rather than tender the whole of the Mechanical & Electrical services (M&E) as one package, splitting out packages - such as ductwork, air handling units and boilers - can add more competition. This potentially results in keener prices and better delivery teams being put forward.

It can also give greater resilience as there is no single point of dependency An alternative for clients who have a significant programme of construction works is to set up a framework. The popularity of frameworks changes

over the years and in many instances these only include main contractor, from a construction perspective.

However, on some very successful frameworks key sub-contractors have been included as part of the supply chain. This enables the main contractors and sub-contractors to establish long term working relationships with each other as well as the client. However, in some cases the main contractor would not necessarily have chosen to work with the sub-contractors on the framework and so they have to build new relationships and may miss out on volumetric discounts with their preferred suppliers. In my experience the Higher Education and Property sector have found a framework

Construction & Civil Engineering 21

SPECIAL FEATURE

(c) Arup

Abbey Crescent

approach very successful.

The procurement of a main contractor and their associated supply chain is the opportune time to establish working behaviours and instil a collaborative approach. Setting up the project with this approach from the start can make a major difference to the level of access you have to the key sub-contractors. There are three elements that I would recommend and I have found them to lead to good working relationships that have resulted in high performing teams.

Firstly, I always try to gain access to sub-contractors before they are awarded the contract because it allows me to assess the strength of the delivery team and the relationships between all parties. This can’t always be done for all important packages, as on some projects they come on-board a long way down the line.

However, with some forethought, this can be achieved for key elements, such as Sub and Superstructure and, most importantly on heavily serviced buildings, M&E. In all but one case in my career, contractors have continued with the team in the tender and at

22 Construction & Civil Engineering

interview when this approach was carried out.

Secondly, having a team-building day is invaluable to creating strong relationships at this crucial stage. I find that spending considered effort on this can lead to some exceptional and long lasting results. I’ve worked with a number of professionals to pull these events together so that all parties get something out of the event and that all participants make a personal commitment to the client and project team. Having key sub-contractors at such events makes a substantial difference to engagement and future access, because getting that message to sub-contractors directly has significant benefit in the project’s progress and the relationship between all parties.

Smooth progress Finally, once the relationship has been established and the project is underway, Principals meetings are essential to ensure smooth progress of the project. I am a keen supporter of Principals meetings

and encourage my clients to have them on each project. They are unminuted sessions, generally one hour long and attended by the Principals/ Directors from the whole project team from designers and builders, to cost consultants and project managers. Sometimes, clients like to attend too. The purpose is to allow any entrenched issues to have an escalation point to senior project representatives and, by having these meetings at the earliest opportunity, relationships are built before challenges arise, making situations far easier to resolve.

So what’s the benefit of this engaged approach? In my opinion, it’s a false economy to take a handsoff approach, which can often leave this important part of the supply chain less engaged, underutilised and both the client, and client’s project manager, having less opportunity to spot future challenges. It’s far better to have full engagement and wider access, resulting in a unified approach with the challenges that often arise on construction projects more readily mitigated. Getting the ‘right’ sub-contractors can be the key to setting the right project ethos and in turn will create a high performing project team. m

Julie Wood is director and UKMEA leader of Arup Programme and Project Management. Arup is the creative force at the heart of many of the world’s most prominent projects in the built environment and across industry. From 91 offices in 39 countries its 11,000 designers, engineers, planners and consultants deliver innovative projects across the world with creativity and passion.

For further information visit:

www.arup.com.

If you don’t have the time to read it all, read what you need

Health & Safety Monitor is the newsletter of choice for professionals across all industries because it is: Clear, succinct and brief: With case summaries, indexes and bullet points so you can easily pick out what’s relevant to you Practical, informative and comprehensive: Health and safety news reported and analysed, with full references supplied for your ease of use Unbiased, trusted and critical: Gives you the facts Request the latest issue free of charge Subscriptions: £195 for 12 issues Contact: Doris Wells t: 01603 274280 e: @schofieldpublishing.co.uk w: www.healthandsafetymonitor.com

PROFILE: Spie Fondations

Deep & dynamic Spie Fondations is a subsidiary of Spie Batignolles, the fourth largest French construction group. With an overall turnover greater than €2.2 billion, and over 8000 employees spanning France, the UK, Germany, Switzerland, UAE and Qatar, the organisation is well positioned to deliver a powerful blow 24 Construction & Civil Engineering

W

e began operating in France over 55 years ago in pylon foundations and became part of the Spie Batignolles group in 1982. The construction business underwent an LMBO (Leverage Management Buyout) in 2003 and Spie Fondations has successfully diversified into larger geotechnical projects, today boasting an annual turnover of £150 million,” says Adrian Mercer, UK business development manager. As one of Europe’s largest specialist foundation contractors, Spie Fondations employs a workforce of 400, with a speciality

in large basements, shafts and deep foundations. In the construction of these underground structures, it uses an array of specialist techniques including diaphragm walls using mechanical grabs, hydraulic grabs, and rock cutters, secant and contiguous piled walls using shotcrete and anchors. Other specialist applications include rotary bored piles up to 2.5m diameter as well as mini piling and steel tube piles, which can be driven in single lengths of up to 24m, using hammers, vibrators or screwed methods.

Grouting, by means of permeation, compaction, compensation, fissure or jet grouting is a service that has increasingly provided work for the

RER C Jet Grouting in Tunnel

STEP - DWall shaft

business throughout its history.

The expert in specialist foundations works within France and internationally, operating its own specialist equipment, boasting a comprehensive expertise in all the processes and technologies required to create complex foundation structures. Suited to a broad spectrum of applications across a full range of infrastructure and civil engineering works, a major portion of the business is still today

within the overhead line market.

Working in partnership with the likes of RTE (on behalf of EDF) in France, and for the Energy Alliance within the UK, the business has established relationships with major players and successfully undertaken numerous high profiled works. Recognised for its technical expertise in design and construction, as well as cost saving techniques, the company and its technologies continue to greatly benefit its clients. “We specialise in big holes in the ground, forming deep basements and deep shafts for a

broad spectrum of applications.

We are currently tendering for works on Thames Tideway Tunnel for the construction of numerous shafts required for storm water storage, eliminating surge into the Thames,� announces Adrian. The multi-disciplined contractor has a fully integrated in-house design capability as well as employing a team dedicated to developing and maintaining equipment. With a proactive and innovative approach to problem solving, it has the ability and resources to manage the whole process from initial feasibility studies through to construction. “We are particularly interested in collaboration and partnerships and believe early contractor

Construction & Civil Engineering 25

PROFILE: Spie Fondations

Stepney Green - Reinforcement Cage

Heart of East Greenwich - Grouting

involvement can bring real benefits to geotechnical projects,” Adrian points out. Recent major projects in the UK include a 3500sq m grouted plug in Greenwich. The Greenwich Square development is part of a £250 million regeneration project to create 645 homes, leisure facilities and community services on the site of a former hospital. The business was also involved in the Stepney Green project for Crossrail, where it formed a 50m deep diaphragm wall which enabled construction of one of the largest mined caverns ever constructed in Europe using the tunnelling technique of sprayed concrete lining.

“Our technical expertise combined with a broad base of resources from the teams that deliver the work, from a technical and project management perspective to those actually doing the works on site, are strengths that our clients have come to rely on. We also have a very large plant yard and tool kit that includes an advanced CFA piling rig that makes us the only contractor in the UK that is able to go down to 41m at diameters of up to 1.2m,” highlights Adrian.

Furthermore, Spie Fondations’ CFA system has been designed with a

26 Construction & Civil Engineering

hydraulic bung that ensures the integrity of concrete in the pile shaft as the auger is being withdrawn.

Such advanced developments are attributable to the R&D drive within the company, targeting the development and improvement of technology.

Stepney Green Shaft

Armador Consultancy Machinery After their acquaintance in 2012 at an international piling conference, Armador has become a supplier for Spie Fondations.

Armador specialises in manufacturing completely customisable bored piling tools such as augers, buckets, corebarrels, double and single walled casings, casing shoes, tremie equipments and auger flights. It is a go-getter when it comes to manufacturing kelly type bored piling tools; its innovative perspective on these tools and its durable products make it feel safe to work with Armador all in compliance with the market requirements.

Benefitting from the financial backing of the larger group, Spie Fondations is able to secure its position within larger projects, working with consortiums and partners hand-in-hand to bring the best to projects. For the last ten years the company has been working on the CASTOR project where annually it carries out jet grouting on the RER lines of the Paris metro that extend out of central Paris. “Over the years there has been some settlement on the lines resulting in bumpiness and this is part of a long-term improvement to overcome this effect. We are also using the project as leverage to become involved in some of the newer lines that are planned,� says Adrian.

In other projects, the company has been working in the Middle East on the Guggenheim Museum, as

Construction & Civil Engineering 27

PROFILE: Spie Fondations

Guggenheim - Rotoforeuse Cutter

well as the Abu Dhabi STEP Project where it completed a diaphragm wall and a grouted cut-off wall down to 100m. Commenting Adrian adds: “We are also involved in the new Qatar Metro in Doha on the Gold Line, adding to the business in that region which is particularly strong. We see the UK is also a very healthy market and as tender prices harden we are becoming progressively busier. There is a phenomenally demanding time ahead with foundations for HS2, Thames Tideway, and Crossrail 2 to name just some of the projects.

With so many major contracts on the horizon we are forecasting quite significant growth for the business.”

Market research indeed forecasts 50 per cent growth of infrastructure works for foundations up to 2018.

“It is a great opportunity for Spie Fondations to tap into as big infrastructure projects complement our capability, and it is becoming obvious that there is going to be a shortage of businesses able to undertake these works. As such, we are already targeting work on the HS2 link. As we push forward, our focus on the period ahead is to continue to tap into those major infrastructure projects, and with our wide range of techniques we are well placed to aspire to those largescale projects,” concludes Adrian. m

Driven Steel Tube Piles.

Spie Fondations www.spiefondations.com Services: Specialist foundation works contractor 28 Construction & Civil Engineering

profile: Travis Perkins

Bold developments

Keen to deliver a more integrated, customer focused service, building merchants Travis Perkins realigned its businesses into a new divisional structure in January 2014

W

ith a history of supplying building materials to the building and construction trades dating as far back as the Georgian era, Travis Perkins has developed its expert knowledge and capabilities over the last two centuries to become one of the biggest suppliers in the UK. Listed on the FTSE 100 since June 2013, the company boasts 17 industry-leading brands in its portfolio, 1900 outlets and over 24,000 competent and dedicated employees in operation

throughout the UK and Ireland.

“Having commenced trading at the end of the 18th century Travis Perkins combined steady organic growth and prudent acquisition to achieve its current strong position in the British home improvement and builders merchant sector,” states Frank Elkins, divisional chief executive officer of the Contract Merchanting Division.

Established from a merger in 1988 between Travis & Arnold and Sandell Perkins, the organisation presently boasts some of the leading industry brands alongside Travis Perkins, such as Keyline, City Plumbing Supplies, Wickes, Toolstation and PTS. The company has enjoyed consistent growth despite market fluctuations, which is due to its continued investment in products, even throughout the recession.

Providing in excess of 100,000 products to trade professionals, the company’s product portfolio

Sektor Partitioning Installed at Ryehill House

includes building materials, landscaping materials, plumbing and heating, timber and sheet materials, dry lining and insulation, painting and decorating, doors and joinery and hand and power tools.

The majority of these products are always available from stock and more than 6000 can be seen in more detail on Travis Perkins’ website.

In addition, the firm boasts a strategic network of local branches, stock availability and clear and competitive trade prices; customers can open an account with Travis Perkins and benefit from prices that offer the best deals on the products clients buy the most. Furthermore, reliable and knowledgeable staff are available at all local branches, ready to offer the best service and expert advice for the smallest of jobs. Determined to lead the way in delivering building materials to those that need them, Travis Perkins has achieved this through Construction & Civil Engineering 29

profile: Travis Perkins

an awareness of market trends, high quality staff and embracing the latest technology.

In line with its strategic methodology, the company realigned its businesses into four divisions at the beginning of 2014, general merchanting, contract merchanting, consumer, and plumbing and heating, says Frank: “A new group financial director, Tony Buffin, strengthened financial reporting and has helped drive the Divisional structure. This restructure has been driven by combining businesses with both a common customer type and common service requirements.

Recognition was made throughout the group that the decision making process needed to be much closer to the businesses. This new Divisional structure put the crucial support functions closer to the business units so speeding the decision making process.

Travis Perkins has a broad and diverse breadth of business and has developed a broad range of channel capabilities enabling customers to purchase products for resale and non-resale and from a variety of channels. This enables current requirements to be met and accommodates future evolving customer trends.”

Out of these four business

Sektor Partitioning Installed at Ryehill House

segments, the Contract Merchanting Division brings together the three businesses that supply products to high spec construction firms and project contractors: BSS, CCF and Keyline.

Because all three organisations track major commercial and infrastructure projects, merging them into one division will assist project tracking and the selling to major contractors. “The Contracts Division is made up of three businesses; BSS, CCF and Keyline because of the similarity in customer proposition,” confirms Frank. “As a Division we are involved with most of the major commercial and infrastructure projects across the UK and heavily involved with projects such as Crossrail, Sir Francis Crick building and an iconic building such as the Shard. Customers within the Contracts Division tend to be orientated towards quotes and tenders and operate in the high spec sector where technical expertise and solution selling are key attributes.

“The Division is evolving but in principle has three managing directors reporting in and six directors as functional heads supporting the businesses. It was created to speed up decisionmaking and recognise the fact that

Vaillant Group A renowned international family-owned company with 140 years of experience, The Vaillant Group has pioneered innovative technology that has revolutionised the heating industry. From our range of Commercial wall hung boilers to domestic boilers and the geoTHERM ground source heat pumps, we have a wealth of solutions for all needs.

As one of the world’s market and technology leaders, our long standing partnership with the Travis Perkins Group is a relationship that we are proud of, making it possible for everyone in the UK to enjoy a whole host of advanced domestic and commercial heating and hot water technologies.

the businesses within the Group are different and have different needs.

So to best serve our customers and their business the new Divisional structure was put together.”

The key components of the strategy for the Division include growth in insulation and major presence in partitions from CCF, the development of a industrial offer and category expansion for BSS, a deeper sector and category specialism and excellent IT for Keyline. Meanwhile, for the Contracts Division as a whole, the key components are contract pricing and project management, branch network expansion and multi channel capability.

Identical to the other three segments, the Contracts Division has clear performance targets such as boosting capital investment and outperforming market peers through enhanced product knowledge and customer service, extended product ranges, category expansion, selective network expansion, as well as sourcing and own label development.

“Customer service is a key driver for all the Business Units and we have conducted insight surveys to understand how we can improve our customer experience. Moreover, we are further investing heavily

30 Construction & Civil Engineering

89

Every great story begins with an idea.

Here’s where our commercial story began.

Pencil and paper. Two of our most valuable production tools.

In 1874, our first chapter was written. Then 20 years of dedication saw the creation of our first ground-breaking closed system gas boiler. Ever since that breakthrough we’ve been developing ideas and creating innovative heating solutions.

120 years later and we’re still shaping the future, this time in the commercial market. Old habits die hard as they say.

To find out why our commercial heating products and services are always worth writing home about call 0845 602 2922 or visit vaillantcommercial.co.uk

Think Commercial. Think Construction & Civil Engineering 27

8903_Vaillant_teaser_pencil_aw.indd 1

12/11/2014 15:40:52

Marshalls believes good design is fundamental to achieving high-quality, attractive places that are socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.

With over a 100 years experience in creating better spaces we have the product range and expertise to guide you through the design, installation and maintenance of any project you are looking to undertake.

For a brochure or to learn more about the Marshalls product offer call 0333 000 20 50 or alternatively please visit www.marshalls.co.uk/commercial

profile: Travis Perkins

Marshalls Marshalls is the UK’s leading manufacturer of hard landscaping products and has supplied some of the most prestigious landmarks in the UK with hard landscaping solutions since the 1890s. Marshalls believes that the better our environments the better we can be and uses its expertise to create integrated landscapes which promote wellbeing to the benefit of everyone, whether it’s through fairly traded stone, providing products that alleviate flood risks, to creating innovative anti-terrorist street furniture. Marshalls is proud to work in partnership with Travis Perkins to Create Better Spaces for all.

in IT to provide an enhanced customer experience e.g. Electronic POD with a large scale programme in our Divisions to add value for our customers,” says Frank.

“The business also continues to focus on a greater return for our Shareholders and the business always looks at a number of

matrices. As always safety is a key area of focus for Travis Perkins. We have also put in ROCE measures across the whole business to branch manager level.”

With 2014 coming to a close, the Division has enjoyed a steadily successful first year in operation, with strong like-for-like sales growth in a continuing fragile market, notes Frank: “Key areas for development are branch expansion, range extension and people development, all of which have progressed well during the course of the year.

There have been many high points this year such as Keyline winning Distributor of the Year for the Crossrail project, CCF launching a new sektor partitions range and the opening of two new BSS branches.”

Awarded the title of ‘Transport Supplier of the Year’ at the London Transport Awards in March 2014, Keyline and Travis Perkins were recognised for the safe and efficient delivery of materials to numerous

Crossrail construction sites. Using a fleet of compliant vehicles, complete with a broad range of security, safety and performance features such as white noise reversing alarms, a reversing camera and side sensors, Fresnel lenses, vehicle tracking and a load security system, both companies were wholly compliant. The provision of a superior service ensured a steady product supply and minimised expensive delays, with items sourced and delivered on time, in full and to the correct locations.

This focus on delivering an exceptional service has been further proven with Keyline’s launch of a new out-of-hours emergency service at 35 of its depots across the UK and BSS opening a new branch on the Minworth Trading Estate in Birmingham. Approximately twice of the size of its previous branch in Gravelly, the 11,500

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Construction & Civil Engineering 33

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profile: Travis Perkins

CCF Peterborough Deliver Insulation For BBC DIY SOS square foot branch will enable the leading supplier of heating and pipeline solutions to retain a competitive edge by holding a more comprehensive and widely available portfolio of products than any of its competitors.

Items will come from the industry heavyweights such as Geberit, Pegler Yorkshire and Grundfos, as well as controls, consumable, valves and pumping equipment from its own BOSS brand.

Looking to accelerate innovation of customer propositions, expand its network and intensify use of space, prioritise investments throughout its portfolio and exploit scale advantage, Travis Perkins aims to invest between £10 million to £20 million per annum into the contract merchanting division, as Frank highlights: “This investment is focused on specific areas, such as network expansion, delivery proposition and enhanced customer services, including tool hire and the development of trade counter offerings. In addition, we will be investing in manual handling equipment and the improvement of safety, with more than £0.5 million to be invested in hydraulic forks for Keyline.”

Having developed a onestop-shop service for major and blue chip contractors, the Contract Merchanting Division is experiencing a significant

increase in orders and purchasing arrangements in advance of the property upsurge in 2015, says Frank: “The outlook for 2015 for the Contract Merchanting Division is an exciting one with plans to capitalise on what we believe is an improving market, albeit still particularly fragile within the commercial sector. The continued improvement of the housing market does present opportunities to a number of our businesses which we are already benefiting from and have plans to develop further.”

Indeed, as the entire industry is preparing for ongoing improvements within the housing

market, Travis Perkins benefits from long-term experience within this business sector, which resulted in its Managed Services Division being named The Housing Excellence Awards Supplier of the Year in May 2014.

Looking to take advantage of this in-house expertise, the Contract Merchanting Division has plans in place to capitalise on opportunities through network expansion over the next five years, as Frank concludes: “We have clear plans for all three businesses and have just recently delivered the five year strategy to the Exec; this includes some exciting plans of network expansion in all three areas that will ensure Keyline is the number one on the national civils, draining and heavy side and CCF has a national network providing the full range of insulation, ceilings, dry lining and partitioning across its whole branch network. Finally, BSS is to develop further specialisms in the industrial market sector with further expansion in both network and service proposition.” m

Travis Perkins www.travisperkinsplc.co.uk Services: Builders merchants

CCF Deliver Armstong Ceiling Tiles To Twydall School

Construction & Civil Engineering 37

14:30

PROFILE: atlas copco meyco

map

Put on the

Through continued innovation and commitment, Atlas Copco MEYCO helps its customers achieve durable new space underground

S

ince inventing the first gunite machine to operate according to the rotor principle in 1957, the MEYCO GM, which was followed by the MEYCO Piccola, Atlas Copco MEYCO, originally known as MEYCO Equipment, has continued its tradition for innovation with further technological developments that have led to an increasingly stronger market position.

Through this commitment to modification, alteration and enhancement of its product range, the strong team at Atlas Copco MEYCO is able to take on all of its customer’s engineering

38 Construction & Civil Engineering

requirements in a safe, cost-effective and punctual manner. Through its mobile equipment range, the company can apply sprayed concrete in underground operations.

Options within the company’s product range include MEYCO Piccola, a smaller version of the first rotor-type machine, the MEYCO GM, that Atlas Copco MEYCO invented more than 60 years ago.

Today both MEYCO GM and MEYCO Piccola are modernised versions of the original machine and operate in accordance with the widely used rotor principle. These highly robust, versatile and easy to operate dry spraying machines are used for the pneumatic transportation and

spraying of sprayed concrete/gunite, mortar, repair, dry materials and sprayable membranes; they can be used for all types of dry shotcreting projects and can be custom equipped to the customers specific requirements.

Benefits of using the MEYCO Piccola include its highly robust and simple design, its long operational life from its ease of use and its high degree of safety; meanwhile, MEYCO GM offers customers adaptability and an extremely flexible performance and control due to its modular system. The MEYCO Piccola has a maximum conveying distance of 500 metres horizontally and 100 metres

vertically, has a maximum grain size of 16 millimetres and runs off electric and air engines.

There is also the MEYCO Altera, a twin-piston pump that is suitable for concrete conveying, grouting, handspraying, repair work and spraying with small manipulators. Compact and durable, the MEYCO Altera wet spraying system is versatile enough for use at any site in the world; it maintains CE standards of safety despite being easy to construct and operate. It boasts a covering distance/height of up to 300/100 metres, a maximum grain size of 16 millimetres and runs off an electrohydraulic engine.

In addition, the company offers the wet spraying MEYCO Suprema; specifically designed for the spraying of medium to large volumes of concrete, it is equipped with integrated MEYCO total dosing control (TDC) as well as a patented push-over system. To compile and extract data for analysis and quality control, the machine operates through an interactive display and MEYCO data; it has a maximum conveying distance of 300/100 metres, a maximum grain size of 16 millimetres and runs off an electrohydraulic engine.

Perfect for large profile tunnelling, MEYCO Potenza offers customers a completely mobile spraying system that comes with integrated accessories such as MEYCO TDC, MEYCO Data and an optional compressor, all of which are mounted on a 4x4 chassis. MEYCO Robojet, a spraying manipulator with a large range, can be mounted on the carrier to offer a maximum spraying height of 14.5 metres and

comes as the standard. Meanwhile, MEYCO Compacta, (14.7 metres), MEYCO Maxima (16.8 metres) are available options. However, Atlas Copco MEYCO is not just a supplier of its own designed and manufactured products, it also provides customers with an efficient after-sales service via the worldwide Atlas Copco network of competent personnel.

Originally under the ownership of

chemical giant, BASF Construction Chemicals Europe AG, the Switzerland-based company’s equipment segment was acquired by industrial group Atlas Copco in April 2013, while BASF retained the materials segment. With shotcreting becoming a growth area due to increasingly stringent safety standards in tunnelling, Atlas Copco was keen to add MEYCO’s broad range of products to its

Construction & Civil Engineering 39

PROFILE: atlas copco meyco

portfolio. Indeed, by placing Atlas Copco MEYCO in its Mining and Rock Excavation Technique business area, Atlas Copco has extended its service offering to existing customers with a unique package of equipment, innovative technology and application expertise.

The Mining and Rock Excavation Technique segment, which boasted 13,347 employees and revenues of MSEK 26,092 in 2013, provides equipment for drilling and rock excavation, as well as a comprehensive range of related consumables and services through a worldwide network. Focused on innovation for sustainable productivity in surface and underground mining, civil works, well drilling, infrastructure and geotechnical applications, this business area develops and manufactures products in units

40 Construction & Civil Engineering

based in Sweden, the US, Canada, India and China.

Since becoming part of Atlas Copco, MEYCO now benefits from its parent company’s sales outlets that are based in 60 countries, which has led to a change in Atlas Copco MEYCO’s sales channels.

Furthermore, the subsidiary can now also offer its customers an

increasingly local service thanks to the 4000 service engineers operating within its parent company.

Looking ahead, Atlas Copco MEYCO will become further integrated into its parent company, while Atlas Copco and BASF co-operate in the development of state-of-the-art concrete-spraying technology.

Through merging experience and combining operational strengths, all companies involved will benefit from a leading position in a fast growing market. m

Atlas Copco Meyco www.meycoequipment.com Services: Manufacture Concrete Spraying Equipment for tunnelling, civil and mining sectors

PROFILE: CRH Structural Concrete Prefaco: Sentower

Reinforced future CRH Structural Concrete Belgium is an agglomerate of companies specialising in pre-cast concrete. Belonging to the global organisation CRH Plc, the transnational business leads the market, delivering innovative products into the heart of the construction industry

C “

RH Plc began to focus on opportunities within Belgium in 2000, and one of the valuable acquisitions made was Ergon, a company founded in 1963 and recognised as true specialist in prestressed and reinforced concrete,” says Stephan van Buggenhout, managing director.

Supported by over five decades of experience, the group today is well

positioned to provide its services for the construction of extensive structures such as bridges, wide spanned buildings and large parking areas to name just a few of its projects.

Responsible for CRH Structural Concrete within Belgium, Stephan points out there are also advantages gained from its geographical position: “Our market actually extends on a 300km radius around Belgium, and as such we work in a number of countries that also include France, the Netherlands and Germany. The distance from Belgium to London is 300km, which is the same distance as the nearest UK factories are to London, so the UK is also an interesting market for projects, particularly with Ergon.”

As a designer and manufacturer of precast concrete, innovation plays a key role within the business, particularly at a time when focus towards stricter

environmental considerations becomes more relevant. From the perspective of innovation, at the top of the agenda for CRH Structural Concrete is addressing sustainability. “This is something that the European community is pushing within its legislation.

We are investigating how we can develop more sustainable products. As an example within housing, we are examining the benefits associated with supplying finished elements that incorporate insulation and bricks in order to fulfil the legislative demands, which must be met by 2020 within Europe,” explains Stephan.

Its innovative drive pushes developments one step further, and highlighting this, the business targets the production of new products with higher load bearing capacity over a greater span width. The company’s commitment to achieving these

Construction & Civil Engineering 41

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26 Construction & Civil Engineering

PROFILE: CRH Structural Concrete

Prefaco: Sentower

Tillman In collaboration with the technical staff of CRH Structural Concrete in Belgium, engineers from Tillman construction chemicals have accurately scrutinised the processes used for the production of concrete and concrete products.

The most modern techniques were then applied in Tillman’s laboratories to explore the possibilities and potential of the chosen cements and binders.

By using ultra-modern admixture technology and a close co-operation between the motivated teams of both companies, they have managed to get maximum results out of binders, production time, equipment and manpower and thereby seriously reduce product and manufacturing costs.

This collaboration encourages both the teams continuously to push the boundaries and to seek new challenges every day with maximum performance at the lowest costs as their ultimate goal.

Success is not achieved on your own!

targets is commendation to its vision, and desire for success.

In the construction industry, innovation and growth often come hand-in-hand, and in 2013, CRH intervened in the rescue of a troubled company, Echo, by acquiring personnel and assets that included two manufacturing plants.

Following swift integration into the group, today Echo makes up one of the most important companies within the Belgian division. Having identified suitable companies to work within the region and maintain a local brand, each company manages its own business at an optimum level whilst contributing to the group’s success.

“CRH Structural Concrete in Belgium is made of six companies; Ergon, Echo, Prefaco, Schelfhout, Oeterbeton and Douterloigne.

Growth through acquisition has been very important throughout the last ten years, but now that we have reached our target as number one manufacturer of pre-cast concrete in the Belgian industry, we move forward targeting more

organic growth. In doing so we are looking to geographical strengths and improving our position in the UK, France, Netherlands and Germany,” says Stephan. Operating on a European scale with companies across different sectors that include commercial, residential, and bridge construction, the business gains strength from a broad spread of its interests. “Whilst one segment may be performing well, another may be weaker, and we take strength from our ability to shift from one to another, continuing to remain successful in business,” he adds.

Supplying to numerous clients, CRH Structural Concrete can adapt to the varying demands through the utilisation of the entire range of its brands. As an example, if a client proposes a tender for a fully integrated project that includes a calculation study of the building, through to the production of all the drawings and direction on the building site, then Ergon has the capabilities to do this. For clients that prefer a supply only contract, other brands such as Prefaco are able to offer this. “Over the past 12 months the market has

Ergon: Nike

Construction & Civil Engineering 43

PROFILE: CRH Structural Concrete

Ergon: Ghelamco

na Ergon: Ghelamco Are differed across each country in which we work. In the Netherlands construction has been very slow, and France is significantly weaker than in past years. In contrast, Belgium and Germany are quite stable markets, and the UK is picking up,” Stephan points out.

With well-trained engineers in production, design and sales, CRH Structural Concrete aims to benefit its customers through the years of experience within the industry.

A close collaboration with other CRH group companies, allows the business to work on some of the most interesting technical challenges in recent years. “Within Belgium we are the market leader in twin wall elements, and the growth for demand of this product within the UK has increased somewhat. We have the capacity to produce 300,000sqm annually, so it is important for us to access all markets so that we may reach maximum potential. Some of our most recent projects within construction include a large parking area for the rail company in Belgium, and warehouse construction for Nike and IKEA,” highlights Stephan.

Focused on addressing the need to further define itself within the global community, Stephan comments on the targets that lay ahead: “Looking forward, expansion within the UK, Netherlands and Germany will play a huge role in our future, and part of our strategy to achieve this is though the continued

44 Construction & Civil Engineering

Ergon: Connector Brussels Int. Airport development of products. As such, we have been working on a new product range for use within the renovation market. Generally our products are quite heavy but through concentrated innovation we have been able to develop a range of lightweight alternatives that we expect to launch into the market in 2016.”

With market conditions expected to stay predominantly flat over the next few years, for all business within the industry it is important to recognise that the potential within target segments may be exploited through fresh and innovative approaches, as CRH is displaying with the new range within its portfolio. “The trends within the market show that we are evolving towards a service orientated business and that is

something we need to develop for the future. Specifically, our clients are looking to us to develop services for them, and as we do so, our ability to comfortably deliver a fully integrated project continues to strengthen,” concludes Stephan. m

CRH Structural Concrete www.crh.com Services: Manufacturer and supplier of concrete products

Ergon: Watertower

Construction & Civil Engineering 45

PROFILE: engcon

engcon also produces buckets, grabbers, compactor plates, ripers, etc for excavators

engcon Tiltrotators, a type of wrist for excavators in 1-32 tons class allowed the operator to tilt and rotate the bucket or other chosen tool

D

Encouraging excavation

engcon, established in 1990 in Sweden, is a big group with business worldwide that primarily produces and sells tiltrotators and quick couplers for excavators 46 Construction & Civil Engineering

uring the first years of the business, the privately owned engcon was a very small company but today has developed into a group with a turnover of approximately SEK 700 million. The engcon Group comprises the trading names of engcon (attachments for excavators), Mählers (attachments for trucks and graders) and Drivex (attachments for wheel loaders and tractors), each of which is the market leader in the development of different attachment systems. engcon Group offers a broad range of high-quality attachments. The sales is handled by its own sales companies engcon Sweden, engcon Denmark, engcon Finland, engcon France, engcon Germany, engcon UK and a couple of prioritised distributors in Norway, Netherlands, Canada, Italy. It also utilises dealers across the world to access other markets.

The main product, tiltrotators – a wrist on the excavator is developed for one to 32 tonne excavators and a large range of similar compatible products. All products together create what the business refers to as ‘system engcon’, the complete solution for an efficient excavator.

The company was awarded an International Innovation Award for its Q-Safe lock technology at the GaLABau exhibition in Nuremburg, Germany in 2014. Commenting on

The tiltrotator allowed the operator to dig beside/behind obstructions

engcon tiltrotators are standard equipment on almost every excavator 3-30 ton

the benefits and importance of the product, Krister Blomgren, CEO says: “Q-Safe provides threefold safety, thanks to hydraulic locking with non-return valve, mechanical locking function and electronic monitoring. With Q-Safe, the operator simply cannot connect the tool incorrectly or release the bucket by mistake. This eliminates ‘the human factor’ as a cause of accidents. Another advantage is that Q-Safe fits all excavators and control systems on the market. The innovation award shows that we are on track in terms of our safety and is one of many products in our concept ‘non accident generation’.”

There are several other products produced by the company that have played a large part in getting the business to where it is today. This includes EC-Oil, engcon’s system for hydraulic and electrical connection of hydraulic tools and attachments, specially adapted for the security coupler Q-Safe and the new series of tiltrotators. “We also have a product DC2, which is our stepless proportional control system for tilt rotators that allows the operator to control the tilt rotator very smoothly. DC2 was developed using the latest technology, Microprop DC2 which also offers remote support. Following the indication of a fault, the operator contacts the remote support, which then takes control of the system via a server link and an app on a Smartphone,”

explains Krister in some detail.

A third product, the Mig 2, is the new generation of joystick that can be fitted with three rollers and seven buttons, or a total of six rollers and 14 buttons on two joysticks.

When used with the Microprop

DC2 control system, all the rollers can be operated simultaneously.

This combination of Q-Safe, ECOil and DC2 on engcon’s new generation tiltrotators (Gen 2) gives the operator the absolute best solution on the market. “We sell

Construction & Civil Engineering 47

PROFILE: engcon

System engcon is a concept with the tiltrotator in the centre and then a variety of tools that together makes excavators efficient

48 Construction & Civil Engineering

our products via distributors and dealers but we are very focused on establishing good relationships with the ‘end-users’. This ensures that we have a very good sense of what they need for the type of product in order to perform their missions in the best way,” says Krister. engcon has developed many new and effective products in the past five years, such as the secondgeneration tiltrotators, Q-Safe, and EC-Oil, and it has greatly increased the level of product sales, recording a 30 per cent increase in 2014.

The largest share of customers is found in the Nordic countries and the rapidly growing markets of France and Germany. The spread of interest in its services is a result of the many strengths that hold the business in a competitive position in the market. “Our biggest strength is that we listen to our customers and help them become more profitable in their work. We do not manufacture our products for our own sake, it is for our customers, and because of the relations with the customers we have innovated products that help the owners and drivers of excavators,” points out Krister.

Being part of a large group allows the company to offer a wide range of products and in addition the knowledge within the organisation

can be interchanged between departments, providing customers with an unbeatable service.

In the Nordic countries the tiltrotator is standard on almost all excavators from three to 30 tonnes. The goal of the company is to promote the product range to the rest of Europe so that it may discover the benefits in the coming years. “As the world’s largest manufacturer of tiltrotators we will continue the work of developing the product line to make our customers even more profitable. Our strategy as we move forward is to continue to grow on the outside of the Nordic countries and we have now recruited more staff in Germany and France.

The new organisations are now working methodically to build their customer bases through dealership.

We are building a broad service network in parallel with selected service partners, which gives our customers a further degree of security in owning engcon’s products,” concludes Krister. m

Every operator that has started to dig with an engcon, will never go back and dig without one

engcon www.engcon.com Services: Produce and sell tiltrotators, quick couplers and other attachments for excavators.

Construction & Civil Engineering 49

PROFILE: McGrath Group

Structured growth

Bedford Sidings

The McGrath Group has been a recognised market leader in the supply and installation of structural steel and architectural metalwork projects for over 30 years

50 Construction & Civil Engineering

T

he company head office, and accompanying 107,000 sq ft purpose built factory facility, is set in an 11.5 acre site located in Lisburn, Northern Ireland. The flexibility of the factory layout enables a wide range of products to be fabricated and assembled.

The McGrath Group has expertise that allows it to work with leaders in the rail, construction, housing and infrastructure sectors delivering and installing a wide range of products and bespoke commissions such as glazing, faรงades, balconies, cladding and roofing, balustrades, bridge structures, lift shafts, stairs and walkways, platforms and canopies and its work can be seen on many award winning and iconic schemes.

With a highly skilled workforce and a fully CAD equipped and

BIM compliant drawing office, the company can offer a professional and flexible approach to every project design and aims to provide the complete sub-contract solution. The McGrath Group also utilises a regional office in Tottenham, London, where it directly employs London based project management teams and site labour.

To meet the challenges of the ever changing markets it operates in, the group maintains a strong focus on complying with stringent qualifications and accreditations such as ISO 9001:2008, Achilles Building Confidence, Achilles Link-up, CHAS and Constructionline. Furthermore, since July 2014 following a successful audit, the McGrath Group is CE Mark Approved to Execution Class 3 of BE EN 1090-1. This approval followed the introduction of BS EN 1090-1 CE Marking for fabrication steelwork,

Beacon Court Dublin

Hungerford Bridge, London

Athletes Village which means all European manufacturers must now CE Mark all fabricated structural steelwork.

In the group’s early years, it concentrated heavily on general engineering works. Today it is acclaimed for its expertise in architectural metalwork fabrication and offers a refreshing approach to the industry by working in partnership with architects and main contractors. It has established strong working relationships with market leaders in industries such as construction, residential, infrastructure and rail. This can be seen through its involvement in the 2012 Olympic Stadium, Aquatics Centre and Athletes Village developments. Working alongside Bovis Lend Lease, Sir Robert McAlpine and Balfour Beatty, the McGrath Group carried out more than £8m worth of works, including

Tyndall Street Footbridge the manufacture and installation of complete bolt-on balcony unit, glass balustrade to 42 staircases, mirror polished stainless steel rails to diving boards and various other architectural metalwork.

The McGrath Group is continuously adapting to meet the changing demands of the market.

One business segment to witness notable growth is the UK residential sector. This significant upturn has resulted in the organisation increasing its capacity to deliver balcony projects. The McGrath group previously had a balcony manufacturing output of circa 400 which has now more than doubled to 850 per year; with the option to increase to 1200 should the market dictate.

The McGrath Group’s recent work at Regents Place, London also demonstrates its capabilities in executing bespoke architectural commissions. Appointed by principal contractor Bovis Lend Lease, work on this project included the supply and installation of balconies, glass balustrades, privacy screens, podium works and architectural toast racks.

The group’s impressive services have also been required on a number of bridge projects for principle civil and rail contractors.

The most recent example of this is the completion of the £1.2m Tyndall Footbridge in Cardiff for JR Smart (Builders) Ltd. The scope of work for McGrath Group included the manufacture and installation of a

Construction & Civil Engineering 51

43 metre bridge span, a 90 metre spiralled ramp to the South, a 95 metre spiralled ramp to the North, 34 support columns, two 16 metre stairs and 510 metres of parapet balustrade. As Tyndall footbridge crosses the railway line from East Tyndall Street to Pellet, Cardiff, the new footbridge drastically enhances access opportunities by linking Cardiff’s retail centre and the £150 million development at Capital Quarter, which is owned and developed

by JR Smart. The footbridge was successfully installed over the May bank holiday weekend in 2014 and officially opened to the public on 25th June 2014.

The McGrath Group has the capacity to produce two footbridges a month. These bridge structures can include curved and spiralled ramp sections with various

52 Construction & Civil Engineering

Olympic Stadium balustrade types. Bedford Sidings Footbridge is a prime example of the complexity and magnitude of bridge which the McGrath Group can deliver. Bedford Sidings had a total span on 43m with spiral ramps at each end totalling 244m.

In 2013, Network Rail selected the McGrath Group as its preferred supplier and primary Tier 2 contractor for the supply and installation of footbridges to the Network Rail National Level Crossing Risk Reduction Programme and is delighted to be associated with Kier who is the Tier 1 contractor on this framework. The McGrath Group was also involved in the successful manufacture and installation of the Brock Level Crossing. The footbridge forms part of the 115 level crossings in the West Midlands and the North West that have been closed since 2010 due to Network Rail’s successful goal of closing 750 of Britain’s level crossings by April 2014.

Alongside working on footbridges and residential projects, McGrath Group has a wealth of experience in the

PROFILE: McGrath Group

Meadow Lane

Wood Lane Station refurbishment and redevelopment of train stations. For example, the company carried out structural steel for all of the above ground buildings and head houses, stainless steel ceilings, cladding, housings for

light fittings, stainless steel security doors, painted steel fire doors, roller shutters, access ladders, roof covers, aluminium roof walkway grilles, stainless steel handrails and roof access hatches for the £550 million

Aquatics Centre stairs redevelopment at King’s Cross Station.

Able to provide its superior services to a diverse range of market segments, McGrath Group is certain to continue to flourish over the coming years as further investments are put into the UK’s rail industry and residential areas. m

McGrath Group www.mcgrath-group.com Services: Supplier of structural and architectural steel metalwork Construction & Civil Engineering 53

PROFILE: WALTER LILLY

Grade 1 listed central London home refurbished by Walter Lilly

Prestigious

undertakings

Established in 1924, Walter Lilly & Co Ltd has a 90-year tradition of providing highly acclaimed and specialised solutions to high-end construction projects.

T

he remarkable history of Walter Lilly & Co Ltd begins with a game of cards. The business was initially established when plumber Walter Gent Lilly won the freehold to a builder’s yard in St Ann’s Street located at the back of Westminster Abbey, London.

Capitalising on his luck, Mr Lilly decided to go into business himself and the company has continued to grow with dedication to highquality and specialist works in prestige projects and science and education. In 1955 the Lilly family

54 Construction & Civil Engineering

Managing director, Andrew Crispin

sold the business to its current owners the Y J Lovell Group, now known as Renew Holdings plc and in 2001 Walter Lilly consolidated its holdings to more suitable accommodation in Waddon near Croydon. 2014 has been a crucial milestone for the company with Walter Lilly continuing to trade under its own name after 90 years in operation and a further move to a new location, this time in central Croydon, which was completed in July.

Today the company continues to deliver prestigious projects to

customers, principally private clients and esteemed organisations such as Grosvenor, Eli Lilly, Imperial College London, the Kew Royal Botanical Gardens and many others. The scope of projects undertaken by Walter Lilly ranges from a value of three quarters of a million pounds to £40 million. Most of the company’s work is focused in the super prime residential areas of London and the Home Counties including Belgravia, Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Kensington, Berkshire and Surrey. During early 2014 the company announced the completion of a luxury residential

Swimming pools are a common feature for Walter Lilly

Making a grand entrance

project in Wimbledon Village and the award of a new contract relating to a substantial country home in Burnham Beeches, Buckinghamshire.

The completed residential project was to create a four-storey extension to an existing family home comprising a new leisure suite, master bedroom suite, music room, garage and self contained staff accommodation, as well as refurbishment and moderate alterations, including a new dining room extension to the existing house. The work was carried out

to an extremely high standard and encompassed extensive landscaping, including several substantial water features located at the front and the rear of the property. The clients were able to move into the home shortly before the New Year and the work undertaken by Walter Lilly received praise from both the client and the project architect.

On-going projects include a £6.7 million contract to demolish a house and construct a substantial country home including the creation of a large basement with facility for an indoor swimming pool and additional attic accommodation, as well as new entrance gates, an external swimming pool and soft and hard landscaping works.

For the most part the project’s elevations will be constructed using Richemont Crème stone with a granite plinth. All of the works and finishes will be undertaken to a high standard utilising the experience and expertise of Walter Lilly’s longstanding supply chain partners.

Teamwork and co-operation are core to the operation of Walter Lilly and the company is proud to work with a wider project team comprising Quinlan & Francis Terry Architects, RBA Project Solutions, Vector Design and Price & Myers.

Work is currently underway on site and is due for completion during May 2015.

More recent project awards include the £9 million high quality fit out of a 27,000 square foot private house in Hampstead and the £28 million subterranean extension and full refurbishment of a 30,000 square foot Grade 1 listed house in Mayfair.

The Walter Lilly business is built upon the collective experience of its team, drawing on the values of trust, teamwork and respect for what each individual adds to the company. It enjoys longstanding client and consultant relationships and welcomes the opportunity to meet new clients and build new long-lasting friendships. As such, Walter Lilly

Construction & Civil Engineering 55

PROFILE: WALTER LILLY

engages with a fully integrated supply chain and has built up strong relationships with subcontractors and suppliers including Halstock Joinery and Locker & Riley. Before being considered for inclusion in the Walter Lilly supply chain, potential subcontractors must submit acceptable health and safety information and proof of financial credit worthiness, complete a prequalification questionnaire and receive a visit to their place of work.

The synergies and relationships with subcontractors are complemented by the company’s core of in-house specialities and skills, including its own engineering, M&E and design management expertise. Walter Lilly benefits from strong lines of communication and a high rate of staff retention with an average length of service per employee approaching ten years,

56 Construction & Civil Engineering

which is a figure that includes the company’s first year trainees and all of the new staff who have joined to support the company’s recent growth. Its pre-construction staff includes estimators, planners, revit technicians, engineers and design managers with between five and 30 year’s experience with the company, while its project delivery team includes agents and managers with between one and 35 years of experience. The company also

Geostructural Solutions/GSS Piling Geostructural Solutions Limited/GSS Piling Limited strives for excellence in engineering and overall quality of construction in all aspects of its work. This is why it is proud to be a prominent member of the Walter Lilly supply chain. For piling and basement construction it achieves Walter Lilly’s high expectations in terms of engineering, innovative thinking, adherence to programme and maintenance of good safety standards.

The company relishes the opportunity of working with Walter Lilly and achieving high standards time and time again

sponsors nine graduate trainees and the majority of its production and commercial staff are members of the Chartered Institute of Building.

Walter Lilly managing director Andrew Crispin, himself a 30 year man, puts the strength of the business firmly in its people.

“We have dedicated, highly experienced and loyal staff who make Walter Lilly the dependable and successful business we have become. We invest heavily in training and, for our size, we have a high proportion of trainees and sponsored students, who we nurture to become our future senior managers. There are many examples of the success of this investment in our management team today.”

In terms of values and business ethos, Walter Lilly maintains the

Clear communication is key to Walter Lilly’s success core values of integrity, honesty and fairness in all of its dealings with its customers, staff, subcontractors and suppliers. It considers all of its customers and supply chain to be knowledgeable, demanding and entitled to have their projects managed efficiently, to a high standard and free of defects in a way that reflects a positive perception of Walter Lilly. As such

The strength of the company is in its people the company is a CIOB training partner and a Chartered Building Company and is accredited to BSI ISO 14001:2004 Environmental System, BSI ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management System, CHAS Registered Contractor, Considerate

Constructors Scheme National Site Awards - Silver awarded for Park Lane site, Constructionline, EXOR SAFE Contractor, Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), The Construction Health and Safety Group (CHSG), British Institute of Interior Design, National House Building Control (NHBC) and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).

Furthermore Walter Lilly fully recognises its responsibility to manage the impact of its activities on the environment and is dedicated to good environmental practice as typified by its ISO 14001 certification and several sustainability awards. The company maintains a comprehensive environmental policy, environmental management plan, waste management plan and other documents that clearly outline the

Construction & Civil Engineering 57

PROFILE: WALTER LILLY

minimum standards that Walter Lilly expects for all of its sites. When choosing materials and technologies Walter Lilly is keen to ensure that its projects incorporate a high level of sustainability and as such, the company has been recognised by the award of both ‘excellent’ and ‘very good’ BREEAM and EcoHomes ratings.

The company’s on-going dedication to the environment is further emphasised by its encouragement of its staff to attain CIOB Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv) status. Currently three members of the Walter Lilly team have achieved CEnv status, placing them amongst only 5000 chartered environmentalists in the UK. Several other members of staff are presently studying to achieve this qualification, which will further highlight the

Facade retention and deep basement construction in Knightsbridge

company’s dedicated approach to best environmental practice.

As its new financial year begins, Crispin is quietly confident about the future with a record order book. “We have a secured and probable workload for 2014/2015 of nearly £75 million and even more encouraging is secured and probable of £40 million for 2015/2016.”

With a proud tradition of delivering first-class quality and highly specialist projects, Walter Lilly has an industry-leading reputation and a strong base of long-term client relationships that will ensure that the company remains active for many years to come. Although the company’s story began with a game of chance, today Walter Lilly is defined by the hard work of its team and its dedication to best practice in all areas. m

Walter Lilly & Co Ltd. www.walter-lilly.co.uk Tel: 0208 730 6200 Products: Specialised solutions to high-end construction projects 58 Construction & Civil Engineering

PROFILE: Pinnacle Consulting Engineers Seaton Aerial

Collaborative solutions From residential developments to supermarkets and gas platforms, Pinnacle Consulting Engineers is the go to company for construction consulting solutions

N

orwich headquartered Pinnacle Consulting Engineers has witnessed rapid expansion since its inception in 1996; although new to the market, the company was awarded a framework partnership with one of the UK’s leading national retailers which led to the opening of offices in Welwyn Garden City, Bristol and Dublin. The company’s success progressed as Pinnacle diversified its customer base and began working in a broad range of business sectors, as director and co-founder David Meigh begins: “Pinnacle has continued its growth into the energy, technology, commercial and education sectors and the recent opening of its central London office. From its core offer

of civil and structural consultancy, it has developed an expertise in commercial due diligence appraisals and feasibility studies of potential development sites for its many commercial clients bringing the framework partnership benefits of value engineering and risk awareness.”

Operating across a number of sectors has resulted in an impressive portfolio of highly successful projects for blue chip clients such as Tesco, HSBC, Santander, The Crown Estate and Shell, who are attracted to Pinnacle’s ability to respond to complex challenges to deliver sustainable, cost-effective solutions.

“Our use of often cutting edge technologies and awareness of the range of construction technologies available for consideration at the outset of a project if best value is to

be achieved results in transparency of choice, and often significant value savings against benchmark industry cost indices,” says David.

Recognised for its integrated and collaborative working methods, Pinnacle’s areas of expertise include structural engineering, building information modelling (BIM), civil engineering, infrastructure design, engineering masterplanning, due diligence, flood management and pre-development engineering. By developing a highly skilled and competent team of engineers and remaining up to date on the most cutting edge technology in the market, the company is able to deliver tailor made, client specific solutions and market leading results.

A specialist in large project consultancy for supermarkets, the

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PROFILE: Pinnacle Consulting Engineers

company has worked with Tesco on many projects in locations such as Watford, Orpington, Seaton and Sheringham. “For Tesco Sheringham, we were challenged to design a unique store that would be both technologically edgy while blending in with the town’s historical

Geotechnics Geotechnics has provided advice, analysis and Site Investigation services to Pinnacle and their clients over many years, working with them to develop innovative value-engineered solutions to problems of difficult ground, predominantly for retail stores. This has led to successful development of sites which have a legacy of past use and abuse or have soft or deformable ground which has been avoided by many before.

Each site poses unique challenges but, through collaborative working and mutual respect, problems have been solved and the client’s exacting standards for performance and sustainability met throughout the UK and overseas.

60 Construction & Civil Engineering

architecture, which provided our design team, working in partnership with architects Wilkinson Eyre, with the opportunity to maximise the use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) to realise a fresh and innovative approach to store construction. BIM allowed the professional team to combine each of its 3D models with Pinnacle’s own Tekla multi-material mode model to realise a building of complex shapes and multi materials. The project has since won numerous awards, including Best Engineering Project in the 2013 Tekla Global BIM Awards, competing against many other prestigious entries on a world stage,” highlights David. The company was presented with the Constructing Excellence East of England Regional Award 2014 for Integration & Collaborative Working

Data Centre BIM Model

for the project.

Another challenging project for Pinnacle involved the redevelopment of a derelict site in Seaton, Devon for Tesco in 2009, taken from earthworks to opening in an impressive eight months.

With more than 245,000 m3 of fill required to raise the site above flood level in order to redevelop

Orpington Mixed Use Retail & Residential

it, the company proposed the innovative solution of bringing in the necessary volume of material by sea; however, because the site is not based directly on the beach, dredging contractor Westminster Dredging Company used its ship, Oranje, to bring the fill from the Bristol Channel to approximately 1.6 km offshore for transfer onto a barge capable of carrying 15,000 m3. Once there, the fill was pumped via pipeline over the Yacht Club and two roads onto the site. “A land-locked flood prone 15 acre site in the centre of town Orpington Mixed Use Retail & Residential

provided the opportunity to import some 500,000 tonnes of imported sea-dredged fill from the Bristol Channel by ship and barge for pumping onshore to the site. The resulting development plateau has since enabled construction of a 55,000ft2 food store and some 260 housing units on what was considered to be an undevelopable site,� explains David.

Pinnacle continues to expand its data centre experience with numerous projects for co-location clients, developers and operators of wholesale data centres. Projects include new facilities for clients in London and the M4 corridor

and more recently, commissions for new data centres in the Baltic states and northern Europe. Fully co-ordinated Building Information Modelling is a prerequisite and plays a key role in the spatial planning and detailed design, enabling the complex services provisions and plant configurations to be clash free and incorporate operational and maintenance aspects. Many projects focus on the installation of new white space data halls in existing warehouse buildings, requiring the strengthening of floors for the high density racking loads required by end users. Often, these works are adjacent to live operating facilities

Kraken at the Barque PL

Orpington Mixed Use Retail & Residential

Construction & Civil Engineering 61

PROFILE: Pinnacle Consulting Engineers

Sheringham BIM Model

Zero Emissions Timber Framed Food Retail Unit

and in confined spaces so various specialist low vibration installation techniques have been adopted to ensure minimum disruption.

This commitment to providing high quality, technically innovative solutions has led to the ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 registered company developing a foothold in the oil and gas market, says David: “Pinnacle has provided innovative structural engineering solutions for the gas industry in the UK and NL waters of the Southern North Sea for clients such as AJS, Shell, Seajacks and NAM since 2011.” A notable contract within this sector was the L13-FD-1 Velocity String Project for Shell involving the design and detail of structural steelwork on a live

62 Construction & Civil Engineering

offshore gas well head; the work enabled the rejuvenation of lockedin gas wells, bringing them back on line and resulting in Pinnacle being awarded the Institution of Structural Engineers 2014 East Anglian Regional Award for Structural Engineering Excellence.

Moving forward, Pinnacle’s award from the Institution of Structural Engineers is certain to lead to increased demand from the oil and gas industry, as owners and operators recognise the potential of working with a highly experienced company that focuses on value

Barge Interface Platform

and innovative solutions. “While we are committed to promoting our skills, knowledge and relationships in the retail sector we also focus on the energy, technology and commercial/residential markets.

These sectors offer us significant growth potential and are a strategic fit with the geographical spread our offices,” concludes David. m

Pinnacle Consulting Engineers pinnacleconsultingengineers.com Services: Construction consulting

PROFILE: Junttan

Piles of opportunity Founded in 1976, Junttan Oy has more than 30 years of experience in the development and manufacture of leading piling equipment

S

ince inventing the concept of a fully hydraulic piling machine in the year of its inception, Junttan has not only remained at the forefront of hydraulic piling machinery development, but has become the global leader in hydraulic pile driving and piling equipment. “We specialise in the design, manufacture and service of hydraulic piling equipment; the product range comprises of piling rigs, deep stabilisation rigs, hydraulic impact hammers, rotary heads and power packs,” says Kari Pollanen, product manager of piling. “Our customers include major world leading contractors as well as smaller local firms that are specialised in piling and our equipment is working in more than 45 countries on all continents.”

Based in Kuopio, eastern Finland, Junttan believes its success stems from its reliability in delivering the most dependable of equipment.

Committed to high standards, the company’s high quality equipment and machines have been used by leading construction companies to ensure success for the most challenging of foundation projects.

The most notable construction sites that Junttan machinery has been used on includes the new terminal buildings at the John F

Kennedy Airport, the Panama Canal, facilities for the Salt Lake City Water Olympics, harbours in China, skyscrapers in Manhattan, and, more recently, the Corinthians Stadium in Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the World Cup. Another major contract for the company was the Eastern Alberta Transmission Line Project in Canada. With an estimated cost of $1.8 billion, the construction of the 485 kilometre, 500 kilovolt (kV), direct current (DC), Eastern Alberta Transmission Line (EATL), which

Construction & Civil Engineering 63

PROFILE: Junttan

runs between Brooks and GibbonsRedwater, north-east of Edmonton, Canada, as well as two converter stations, began in December 2012.

Construction activities include rightof-way clearing, installation of tower foundations, tower assembly and

64 Construction & Civil Engineering

tower erection and the construction of the two converter stations.

Resourced by Northstar Energy Services, the main contractor for the $42 million transmission line foundation project, during the installation of 18,000 piles and

3400 cap assemblies, Junttan used more than 150 personnel and nine Junttan Piling Units (PM20, PMx22, PM23, PM25) to help ensure the job was a success. With the entire system anticipated to be in-service by 2014, the successful completion of the EATL project will cement its place in history as one of Alberta’s best electricity transmission and distribution projects.

Trusted by customers across the globe, Junttan’s state-of-the-art piling equipment combined with its unrivalled customer service, has led to a solid foundation that goes above and beyond conventional solutions. “For over 35 years Junttan has been the forerunner in piledriving products.

We have actively developed new products and taken the industry as a whole forward with new thinking and innovations.

Research and development (R&D) is very important to us and we are constantly putting more effort into our own R&D department, both in our personnel and our co-operation with third parties. We are also known for working closely with contractors and for developing our products and services by listening to the evolving needs of our customers,” says Kari.

As it strives to deliver the optimum in versatile, comprehensive piling solutions, Junttan remains focused on the efficiency, usability, maintainability and safety of its equipment; to ensure its values aren’t compromised, the company uses the very best components and carries out stringent tests. The most recent product to be developed is the J-reX (PMx28), which offers a powerful solution for driving long piles (max 28 metres). Instead of improving or developing an existing model, the J-reX was re-designed from the ground up following a wealth of customer feedback, which has resulted in a machine that combines productivity, long life and strong resale value, as well as efficiency of use, easy maintenance and versatility. “J-reX handles long piles as smoothly and rapidly as our

smaller x-series rigs. The PMx28 is also equipped with an intelligent pile driving data management system to ensure both quality and precision in the piling process,” confirms Kari.

Despite a core focus on quality and innovation, Junttan has always prioritised its customers needs through a high quality team of customer care professionals that are ready to deliver technical support, spare parts or reliable maintenance and repair services on the field. Experts in the piling industry, Junttan’s dedicated and competent personnel ensure that their customers’ machinery is operating to the best of its ability and that they are taking advantage of the technology available. “Our goal is to steer our operations in an increasingly customer-orientated direction,” highlights Kari.

With its piling equipment in use all over the world and a strong market presence in Europe, North America, Australia and Russia, the future looks positive for Junttan as it is presented with growing opportunities in Middle Eastern areas such as Abu Dhabi, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.

“Russia and North America have long been our most valuable markets, which still remains the case. We are also seeing that Scandinavia and Europe are finally starting to rise from the economical collapse, so we are seeing a positive upturn in the whole market,” concludes Kari. m

Junttan Oy www.junttan.com Services: Piling Equipment Manufacturer Construction & Civil Engineering 65

PROFILE: Sandvik Construction

Excavating opportunities For nearly 150 years the Sandvik brand has stood for high quality and dedicated customer focus. As part of this global group, Sandvik Construction is proud to continue this tradition within the construction industry with a range of world-class products and services

A

lthough the company’s roots date back as far as 1855, the Sandvik name was first established in 1862, when the company was incorporated in the construction of finished products such as saws and steel tubes.

Today the Sandvik Group divides its business into five distinct sectors, comprised of construction, mining, mechanical solutions as well as materials technology and venture.

66 Construction & Civil Engineering

This strategy was formulated in January 2012, when the Sandvik Group redefined its business within its existing industry sectors to deliver increased focus, greater transparency in terms of operational performance and enhanced operational performance. As such, each standing business within the group has its own headquarters supported by the Sandvik Group headquarters in Stockholm, Sweden.

Sandvik Construction for example, is also headquartered in Stockholm

with a further satellite located in Shanghai, China.

Sandvik Construction continues to grow as an organisation within the wider Sandvik Group, providing products, services and solutions for virtually any construction industry application encompassing such diverse sectors as rock quarrying, tunnelling, rock excavation, demolition, road building, recycling and civil engineering. The company produces and markets a comprehensive range of rock drilling

Sandvik Dino DC400Ri

Sandvik TCAD+ display ( A face drilling view) ers office

Sandvik drill

Sandvik TCAD+ display (bolting view)

machines including rock tools, drilling rigs, breakers, bulk-materials handling, stationary and mobile crushing and screening solutions as well as underground civil engineering drilling, cutting, loading and hauling machinery solutions and services. These are sold under the Sandvik, Rammer and Bretec brands and are supplied through direct sales through Sandvik or via its extensive dealer network.

During 2011 Sandvik Construction sales amounted to more than 9000

MSEK, while the company grew to include around 2600 employees.

Although the 2008 financial crisis resulted in a decrease in construction projects around the world, the market is beginning to recover and while trading conditions remain challenging, Sandvik Construction understands the needs of its clients and is well placed to provide suitable, costeffective solutions that fit the current requirements of the market.

“Many surface drilling customers

have become more conscious about the cost of operation and especially fuel economy,” reveals product area president for breaking, surface drilling and tunnelling, Pekka Nieminen. “The tunnelling roadheader business for example, is driven by underground civil engineering projects in suitable rock conditions and Sandvik’s hard rock roadheaders have recently been increasingly used in projects in North America, the Middle East and Southern Europe. With regards

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PROFILE: Sandvik Construction

Sandvik Tiger DG

to global economic conditions, some markets are recovering faster than others. We see good growth in North America because the building industry is generating an increased demand for investment in our products.”

The volatility of the market in recent years has created a competitive trading arena for both Sandvik Construction and its clients, meaning that the push towards greater levels of innovation in efficient operation has become a major driving force of continued research and development within the construction industry. “Our customers want to produce more with less cost,” Pekka explains.

“This need to improve performance is also driving research and development. We are constantly looking at new ways to improve

68 Construction & Civil Engineering

customers’ productivity. This is not only in drilling, but also in the entire excavation process. The market is very much like a race, where innovation plays a very large role.”

Within its tunnelling services Sandvik is focused on providing leading technology with optimised performance, high quality tunnelling, reliability and excellent product safety. With the latest developments in tunnelling jumbo rock drills and their control systems the company can offer higher drilling performance without sacrificing operating cost or reliability. The RD525 and RD520 hydraulic percussive rock drills, which offer almost 17 per cent higher penetration rates and a significantly longer tool-life, are prime examples of this. Furthermore the company’s breaker line also includes constantly developing

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PROFILE: Sandvik Construction

products that are more economical and safer to operate. For example, its Ramdata II system will indicate when a service is required, thus ensuring that optimal operating conditions are maintained.

In developing new products Sandvik Construction is dedicated

Exide Technologies Exide Technologies is one of the world’s largest manufacturers and recyclers of lead-acid batteries with operations in more than 80 countries. Exide provides a comprehensive range of industrial and starter batteries. It also offers solutions to meet its customers’ needs for energy storing systems.

The company has more than 100 years of experience in battery production and product development. Exide is a reliable partner for both the original equipment and battery replacement.

70 Construction & Civil Engineering

Sandvik Dino DC400Ri to co-operating closely with its clients to deliver the optimum solution to market. “We produce these drills for customers, so their involvement in the development process is fundamental,” says Pekka.

“Our latest drill, the Dino DC400 is a good example of this co-operation.

The clients were involved from the beginning when building the specification for a new drill and later their opinion was asked on various design features, before finally they were involved in the testing of the drill. In all product areas our customers play a significant role when we develop new technologies.

They run test trials of the new products in different applications all around the world. This assures that we have considered the different needs of the global market.”

Further to working closely with clients to develop leading solutions across several areas, Sandvik Construction also provides a dedicated aftersales service through its extensive global sales and service network. This network is able to offer scheduled maintenance service, machine audits, service contracts and extend warranties

for customers, as well as deliver training programmes targeted to clients’ personnel.

The company’s activities in delivery, aftersales and research and development are supported by its extensive supply chain that ensures that Sandvik Construction has the right solution at every level of business around the world. “Our supply chain consists of Sandvik factories and a comprehensive network of partners supplying materials, parts components and services,” Pekka explains. “We utilise our global presence to continuously develop this supply network to be competitive today and in the future.

As markets continuously evolve we need to be able to develop our operations and react to these changes in unison, while maintaining the core pillars of the Sandvik brand – quality and safety.”

As Sandvik Construction approaches the end of 2014 and prepares for the needs of the future market it will continue

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to focus on the introduction of new products and continuously enhancing its strong aftersales support network. “Our strategy is to set industry standards. Sandvik provides a full line of turnkey rock excavation equipment and global service support. This gives the company a good opportunity for potential business in all market areas. Customers are looking for the suppliers who understand the excavation processes and clients value innovators,” concludes Pekka. m

Sandvik Construction www.construction.sandvik.com Services: Specialist mining and construction equipment

Construction & Civil Engineering 71

PROFILE: Sprayed Concrete Association

Skatepark, The Gas Works, Bridlington

Through the

eyeof the

nozzle

The Sprayed Concrete Association was originally formed in 1976 by a small group of leading Gunite contractors, establishing a governing body to light the future path of the trade and provide assistance and guidance to its members

T

he multi-million pound industry has surprisingly prehistoric affiliations, with sprayed concrete technology first engineered in the US as a method of applying mortar to re-create primitive animals. Essentially, the technology supports the application of concrete without the need of shuttering, which is a standard requirement for conventional casting. The century old trade first became popular in the UK in the 1970’s, leading to the formation of the Sprayed Concrete Association (SCA) and the establishment of its key aims.

Recently the SCA has become part of the Structural Concrete Alliance. The Alliance brings

72 Construction & Civil Engineering

together the Concrete Repair Association, Corrosion Prevention Association and the Sprayed Concrete Association to provide a single co-ordinated voice and source of reference for the Structural Concrete refurbishment and repair industry.

The Structural Concrete Alliance provides authoritative guidance on asset protection and repair including: l The repair, refurbishment and renovation of concrete l Cathodic protection of steel and concrete structures l Sprayed concrete technology and application techniques Representing over 90 companies drawn nationally from contractors, manufacturers, distributors,

consultants, test houses and equipment suppliers, the Alliance offers a single point of contact for major clients and a definitive source of information and advice for all involved in the repair, refurbishment and management of concrete infrastructure and the protection from corrosion of a wide range of structures.

A key aim of the Sprayed Concrete Association is the development and promotion of sprayed concrete on a national scale.

The promotion of sprayed concrete is mainly communicated through numerous exhibitions, presentations, roadshows, email listings, members meetings and the SCA website. For information on all publicity events please contact the association

Shotcreting a piled wall

Fireproofing to Vessel Skirt

Gunning Repairs at Hunterston Power Station

at www.sca.org.uk or by calling 01420 471 622. The SCA has worked closely with members to develop the codes of practice and also the materials that are required to meet the advances in the technology of sprayed concrete, and ultimately provide an end product that conforms to the requirements of the specification and the client.

The production and maintenance of specification and codes of practice represents a key aim of the SCA, regulating both how sprayed concrete should be applied and who should be applying it, as Peter Cotton, SCA chairman explains: “Contractors should hold membership with the SCA. However, there are some companies that contravene these regulations,

which is not beneficial for either the client or the industry. Sprayed concrete contractors and associated companies who apply to become members must be assessed in order to gain membership. Operators should then undertake a series of written and practical assessments, and if successful, will be issued with an SCA card which clearly states the certified categories for which they can perform their tasks.

This guarantees that an approved standard has been achieved and also that the operator has the necessary experience and ability to successfully carry out the task.”

In some instances, the application technique of sprayed concrete makes it more desirable to engineers than conventional poured concrete, enabling it to be used in a wide variety of constructions particularly those which are free formed such as landscaping, zoo structures, rock features, theme parks, water parks, skate parks and swimming pools. It is also extensively used in new construction, embankment stabilisation, underground construction, retaining walls, water retaining structures, protective coatings and strengthening and repair. “One of the most significant sprayed concrete contracts currently being undertaken is the

construction of the tunnels and shafts on the Crossrail project.

The focus of the media, governing bodies and construction industry as a whole, has generated a positive reception for the sprayed concrete method. This was definitely needed after the much published Heathrow tunnel collapse in 1994. Both robotic and conventional hand spraying techniques are being used to apply the concrete to the shafts’ walls, tunnel walls and arches.

Operators intending on working at Crossrail complete an assessment at the Tunnelling and Underground Construction Academy (TUCA), which is a purpose built state-ofthe-art facility in Ilford, London. The project has helped drive forward standards, with Crossrail insisting that nozzlemen have EFNARC certification, the European standard for sprayed concrete,” says Peter.

The materials today are far more advanced than the simple sand, cement and aggregate mix used initially. Sprayed concrete has high early and ultimate strengths, low water / cement ratio, excellent adhesion and bond strength, low permeability, high abrasion resistance and improved frost resistance. The advantage to the user and the client by introducing

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PROFILE: Sprayed Concrete Association

additives and/or accelerators is best illustrated in marine environments, where the concrete can be applied to a greater thickness and the fast initial set means that the concrete is not susceptible to being washed out by the tide. Incorporating polymers and other additives to modify the mix enhances the physical characteristics of the concrete and opens opportunities to undertake projects such as bridge repairs, underground reservoirs, tunnel linings, repairs to large areas of structural concrete, marine structures and encasement of steel structures. “In certain applications the use of sprayed concrete is much quicker and easier than using conventional methods. Work is carried out at high speed resulting in cost reduction through high outputs, and difficult access problems are addressed with relative ease,”

Gunform Specialist Sprayed Concrete Contractors Gunform has been a member of the Sprayed Concrete Association (SCA) since its formation in 1976.

Dedicated to the promotion and development of sprayed concrete methods, equipment, training and implementation, the Association and its members aim to ensure that clients can rest assured they receive a high quality end product installed safely by a qualified, trained workforce.

Gunform supported the recent formation of the Structural Concrete Alliance, incorporating the Sprayed Concrete Association, Concrete Repair Association (CRA) and the Corrosion Prevention Association (CPA).

In addition to carrying out sprayed concrete works, its associated company, Gunform (Equipment Supplies) Ltd., can supply a full range of sprayed concrete equipment for sales and hire.

74 Construction & Civil Engineering

Peter highlights.

Appropriate training and education must support the industry, indicated by the SCA. “The core method is surface preparation, reinforcement – whether fabric mesh or fibres, sprayed concrete and curing. The delivery of each part requires fundamental knowledge, skill and experience.

The SCA assessment ensures Typical Sprayed Concrete Repairs, Hunterston Power Station

this is upheld. It is important all the operatives have a good knowledge of health & safety and hold an appropriate CSCS card.

The success of spraying concrete relies heavily on the skills of the nozzleman and his team. It is vitally important therefore that specifiers and designers insist upon and verify the experience and certification of their prospective contractors,” says Peter.

TUCA offers a wide range of courses for anyone who is joining or already working in the sprayed concrete and tunnelling construction industry. “The facility at TUCA is second to none, and they have invested a lot of money on practical facilities where operatives can carry out sprayed concrete either using actual robotic or conventional spraying equipment. Combined with the tuitions and simulation software in the class rooms, which is intended to replicate a real life situation, this ensures that the level of training is as required in the industry,” points out Peter. Recognising that the quality of sprayed concrete and its reputation is dependent on the operatives in the field, the SCA, in addition to assessing operators and issuing an SCA card, has been working closely with the CITB to introduce an NVQ and specialist Upskilling programme for operatives. “In addition to the SCA card, operators can attend courses at TUCA or a CITB institute and achieve a recognised qualification, which is good for skill recognition, but furthermore, will hopefully attract more school leavers into the trade. The CITB see this as an important expansion of the civil engineering sector, and the future looks very positive,” he concludes. m

Sprayed Concrete Association www.sca.org.uk Services: Represents leading contracting, consulting and manufacturing companies engaged in sprayed concrete

PROFILE: LANCASTER EARTHMOVING

Groundbreaking service

F

Lancaster Earthmoving specialises in bulk earthmoving and ground modelling for civil engineering projects

ounded in 1988 by Ian Blything, an expert in earthmoving and the construction industry, Lancaster Earthmoving has developed a strong reputation in the civil engineering sector over the last 26 years, as managing director Steve Clarke begins: “Traditionally Lancaster Earthmoving has been known as a bulk earthmoving contractor; we have extensive experience in this field, having successfully utilised our bulk earthmoving fleet to its maximum during the development of many roads. Major projects for us include Haughley Bends, A1073 Spalding to Eye and A11 dualling Fiveways to Thetford.”

As the provider of a broad range of services to the industry, Lancaster Earthmoving has experience of working on reservoir, environmental and industrial projects, as Steve states: “We can undertake the full package of services in reservoir projects, including being able to design, construct, install, renovate reservoirs, lagoons, ponds and lakes; we have experience of meeting a range of individual requirements and deliver projects both on time and to budget. Furthermore, our base in East Anglia has enabled us to be at the forefront of efforts to strengthen both inland waterway flood and coastal protection and defences in and beyond the local area. We have developed our expertise in managing and carrying out flood and coastal protection work, often beginning at the design stage and managing projects through to completion.

“We also specialise in bulk earthmoving and have extensive experience of working on main industrial projects in the Eastern counties and beyond. Lancaster Earthmoving has the ability to crush, screen and reprocess materials necessary to provide a most comprehensive service for our clients.”

Proud to retain a reputation for outstanding performance, Lancaster Earthmoving has always ensured its workforce consists of the very best expert specialists who adopt a constructive handson approach throughout projects.

These competent personnel, many of whom have been with the company for over 20 years, are organised into well-respected teams that boast strong technical skills, a high regard for health and safety in the workplace and a solid

reputation for delivering projects on time and on budget. “We do not compromise on safety, quality and environmental issues and supply the expertise and workforce to enable projects to be delivered on time, with minimum impact on the environment. Indeed one of our very important sectors of activity is for clients such as R.S.P.B. where the ecological improvement of designated ‘Reserves’ provides repeat business opportunities due to the quality of work undertaken by Lancaster historically,” says Steve.

Accompanying Lancaster Earthmoving’s highly skilled team of knowledgeable employees is a large fleet of 70 vehicles, which is regularly updated and maintained by the company’s in-house team of skilled fitters. “As part of our natural growth and development, we have built up a fleet of modern

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PROFILE: LANCASTER EARTHMOVING

and reliable equipment; some of which is available for hire (self-drive or operated). Our fleet is replaced and updated regularly,” says Steve.

“Our fleet includes a range of different types of excavators to work in various environments, including large, open and more confined space; we have both tracked and rubber tyre excavators to enable us to cover large ground bulk digging and work off finished surfaces. This fleet includes Caterpillar, Liebherr, Volvo, and Hitachi tracked and wheeled excavators from 18 to 50 tonnes, some of which are fitted with GPS systems.”

In addition to its portfolio of excavators, Lancaster Earthmoving has a range of Volvo 6x6, all-wheel drive, articulated dump trucks, from 20 to 30 tonne capacity, which enable the firm to undertake vast bulk clearance in a fast and efficient manner. Furthermore, as the cost of soil disposal and imported aggregates continues to rise, the company has developed in-house capabilities to undertake ground improvement and soil stabilisation

76 Construction & Civil Engineering

through its Wirtgen WR2400 soil stabiliser, which works alongside its Streumaster SW10 binder spreader.

“The option to modify existing soils offers clients both cost savings and environmental benefits, along with reduced construction durations.

The equipment has been used in both temporary and permanent works applications by the addition of lime and cement to improve existing ground, which thus enables construction works to proceed in a more cost-efficient fashion,” explains Steve.

The company also has Caterpillar, Liebherr and Komatsu dozers from 13 to 27 tonnes, with low ground pressure and scarifying capabilities; Parker and Powerscreen remote tracked equipment for fast mobilisation and versatility and a CAT140M grader, as Steve highlights: “All of our dozers are fitted with GPS systems to offer both greater accuracy and reduced costs of more conventional setting out; these vehicles enable us to operate under tough working conditions to strip sites, and level

and lay finished surfaces to plan and in budget. Meanwhile, the latest addition to our fleet is the CAT140M grader, which we acquired to enhance our capacity to get more work done to very fine tolerances in less time; it is also fitted with its own GPS system. It is reputed to be the most durable, productive and comfortable motor grader in this size class on the market.”

Currently working on two major contracts, the dualling of the A11 and the A47 NDR, the company will utilise its high quality fleet and fully trained personnel to meet the stringent requirements for safe and efficient project delivery. “We are upgrading the existing trunk road to dual carriageway for Balfour Beatty on behalf of the Highways Agency,” says Steve. “Works involve the dualling of eleven kilometres and the construction of a new five kilometre bypass around the village of Elveden; Lancaster Earthmoving were engaged as part of the Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) to deliver the project within the HA budget. Works began on the site in

2010 and are due for completion in October 2014.” The project so far has involved extensive site and woodland clearance, bulk earthmoving, materials processing and recycling, placement of subbase and ecological green channel details and the installation of sustainable drainage systems. During the peak of the works, the company used 50 pieces of bulk muckshifting plant.

The second major project for Lancaster Earthmoving is the Postwick Hub Interchange works for Balfour Beatty on behalf of Norfolk County Council, as Steve highlights: “The project is the first phase of the Norwich Distributor Route, which currently, is anticipated as starting next year. The scheme provides new access to the Broadland Business Park and the creation of a new interchange, which will form a key part of the A47 to Norwich Distributor Route project.” Lancaster Earthmoving has been contracted to carry out site clearance, bulk earthworks, soil stabilisation, subbase and landscaping works on the project, with works on this phase beginning in Spring 2014 and scheduled for completion in Summer 2015.Focused on consolidating its position in established market areas, the company will also look to increase its geographical footprint as the country continues to recover from the economic crisis. “With positive, controlled consolidation and conservative growth over the 2015/2016 period, we will then look to expand into areas where our key strengths can be utilised to our clients’ advantage,” concludes Steve. m

Lancaster Earthmoving www.lancasterearthmoving.co.uk Services: Bulk earth moving specialists Construction & Civil Engineering 77

PROFILE: ROCKWOOL

‘U’value

Products

Product

Production

ROCKWOOL makes and supplies a full range of smart and sustainable insulation products for the construction industry based on innovative stone wool technology

T

he properties of stone wool were discovered in the early 1900’s in Hawaii, where the naturally occurring wool-like material hung from trees near the active Kilauea volcano.

When scientists found that it had exceptional fire protection and insulation qualities, work began on a manufacturing process to reproduce it commercially. In 1937, Gustav Kahler brought the volcanic principle to Denmark and set up ROCKWOOL’s first factory near Copenhagen, making building

78 Construction & Civil Engineering

insulation that could cope with the tough Danish climate. Having proved its success at home, the company began to expand abroad, throughout Europe and international markets. Today, ROCKWOOL operates 27 factories across Europe, Asia and the US. ROCKWOOL’s UK factory was built on a reclaimed industrial site in Wales and opened in 1979.

The plant expanded in 2009, opening a new production line, and now houses some of the most advanced stone wool manufacturing technology in the

world supplying a diverse product range from solutions for every element of the building envelope to fire protection products. “The market is showing strong growth in most key sectors which impact the business. The new private housing market is leading the way with good performance in the industrial, commercial and refurbishment sectors, and public new housing and refurbishment has taken a step backward and looks like it will be a while before we see a significant turnaround,” explains Rory Moss, managing director.

Production R&D and innovation are essential activities for ROCKWOOL to ensure its future growth and success as Rory explains: “Product development enables us to stay a step ahead of our competitors but it is driven by a desire to provide solutions to our customers both in terms of our products and our service. At the beginning of 2014 ROCKWOOL introduced a new way of adhering facings to our flat roof board, which enabled a range of flat roofing solutions to be developed. The uniqueness of the combination of new binders and a unique fleece bedded into the ROCKWOOL has allowed us to develop a flat roof board that will allow mechanically fixed, single ply adhered, liquid applied, torch direct and pour and roll flat roof finishes to be applied to one solution.”

ROCKWOOL Hardrock is the only product in the market capable of meeting all possible surface finishes which dramatically reduces complexity to the roofing customers and eliminates waste, as leftover product can be utilised on other projects, regardless of roof finish, assisting its distribution partners’ stock profiles. “The introduction of ROCKWOOL Hardrock significantly reduced our SKUs; reducing production change overs, reducing on-site stock levels and has led to the product being accepted into stock by our distribution partners for the first time in history, which has improved our service offer to the end customer in terms of lead

time and minimum order quantities.

Due to its makeup, Hardrock is the only flat roof solution on the market that can meet all fire and acoustic, and major roof cover requirements in building regulations without requiring additional layers. The solution also reduces the amount of fixing to the deck required for wind

uplift, speeding up installation and reducing system costs,” highlights Rory.

Each year the Insulated Render and Cladding Association (INCA) 2014 Awards recognise the leading external wall insulation (EWI) projects that demonstrate innovation and excellence. “We are delighted that four of our REDArt EWI projects have been shortlisted for awards. The winners will be selected on the basis of outstanding thermal performance, a high level of technical difficulty, excellent workmanship and striking design and aesthetics,” he says.

In 2009, a £70million investment was made by the business to open up a new line in the UK, doubling the manufacturing capacity at the plant. As part of this investment, a new recycling facility was built enabling the recycling of virtually

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PROFILE: ROCKWOOL

all of its production waste, as well as significantly expanding the capacity to recycle waste returned by customers. State-of-the-art packaging processes and stock control systems were also put in place to optimise production runs and improve the service offered to customers with best available technology environmental systems installed to reduce the factory’s environmental impact.

Its products save over a hundred times more energy and carbon in use than is produced during manufacture, and created from a natural, sustainable and recyclable resource, it is continually replenished naturally from within the earth. “Our high-tech production process utilises filters, pre-heaters, after-burners and other cleaning collection systems to ensure an environmentally responsible approach. Waste material, refurbishment and demolition waste, along with off-cuts, can all be transformed into briquettes and recycled into new ROCKWOOL products. The dedicated recycling facility at our Bridgend plant allows contractors and builders to recycle their unused insulation, and reduce dependence on landfill,” points out Rory.

Looking ahead, new construction and refurbishment in both private housing and commercial sectors present great opportunities for the company to grow with the market, take share and present new products and services, as Rory concludes: “ROCKWOOL has a legacy based on outstanding and truly differentiated products which provide real value to customers and end-users. We need to build on that legacy with new products, penetrate new markets and provide market leading service and expertise to our customers.” m

ROCKWOOL www.rockwool.co.uk Products: Sustainable insulation products for the construction industry 80 Construction & Civil Engineering

Flatroof

Factory