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of the pres ident

1MAY 2018

Well, the headlines haven’t really changed – not enough to make us feel that the economic tide has actually turned. Donald Trump sent a ripple through global markets with a hell-bent withdrawal of his country from the multilateral nuclear non-proliferation accord with Iran, sending the rand, for one, into another, predictable, tailspin and his international allies into tooth-grinding frustration. And here at home a day after our new President held his second Q&A in Parliament, the biggest news for a country, hungry for plans to revive the economy, was his spat with the opposition chief whip, whom he told to shut up. And then had to retract what was deemed an ‘unparliamentary’ remark.

Not helpful, when BusinessReport, on May 9 said “South African business confidence has declined to levels last seen when Jacob Zuma was still the president.” They backed this up with news that the BCI had dropped to 96 in April from 97.6 the previous month, according to the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry. That’s the lowest since November last year. Five of the 13 sub-indexes that make up the gauge declined from a month earlier, said BusinessReport.

For the building and construction industry, this uncertainty and downright pessimism means that there’s a continued hiatus in in the supply of contracts for large-scale projects, which extend beyond private or government big-scale building, to the largely State-driven hard infrastructural and essential requirements such as roads and bridges. This is notwithstanding a mooted R940 billion in government funding for big ticket items that remain as yet, to be fed into the industry.

Long periods of low energy in any industry are discouraging and in the building and construction industry, there are many highly-skilled operators with their lines in the same dwindling pond of opportunities. It’s a testing time for everyone and those with the longest experience and unwavering tenacity are the survivors.

But it must remain top of mind that the building and construction industry has proved itself to be relentlessly cyclical, over many fallow and boom seasons. Mostly one can ascribe conditions to influences from the overall economy, both domestic and foreign. And there is no doubt that currently we are under enormous pressure from almost every quarter.

However, the situation is never completely out of our hands and playing it smart can mean the difference between sinking or swimming. The same cycles that affect the entire industry also influence the sectors within it.

While the market for major retail and industrial projects flattens, opportunities can arise in the various niches of the residential market and commercial and industrial SME accommodation. The secret is in remaining flexible and capable across a wide spectrum of construction needs. Right now, analysts are recommending affordable housing as a focus that is offering the best ROI. Even if you don’t agree, be open to new opportunities to exploit your skills and those of your workforce.

It’s all about survival.

John

SINK OR SWIM – IT’S YOUR CALLJohn Matthews

President, Master Builders South Africa

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The official journal of Master Builders South AfricaSA Builder

is available online. Visit: www.sabuilder.co.za

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CoverStorysee page 14

MASTER BUILDERS SOUTH AFRICARoy Mnisi - Executive Director

CMA Office & Conference Park,2nd Street, Midrand, 1685Box 1617, Halfway House, 1685Tel: 011 205 9000Fax: 011 315 1644Website: www.masterbuilders.org.zaemail: info@masterbuilders.org.za

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FROM THE DESK OF THE PRESIDENT Sink or swim – it’s your call......................................................................................1

MBA News Construction Regulations: Driven Machinery and Pressure Equipment .................4

Construction Health and Safety Durban building collapse – no outcome yet............................................................6Seminar seeks to slash the number of accidents on Western Cape building sites....................................................................................6

Industry newsGood expansion of 13.6 percent in SQM approved in February (Stats SA)............7All systems go for concrete industry’s TCC 2018...................................................8Construction expo a resounding success...............................................................8Continued delays by Treasury hamper construction sector....................................9Renée Minnaar scoops first place at the 31st Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Award................................................................10Innovation and design excellence recognised at Corobrik SAIA Architectural Awards...................................................................13

COVER STORY Renico Construction – the epitome of a Master Builder.................................14

Light Steel Frame BuildingLight Steel Frame Building shows its metal in roofing..........................................16

Project newsEvaluating precast concrete suitability for construction projects..........................18Exemplary fast track student accommodation project..........................................20New pipes transform old quarry into upmarket retirement estate.........................22

For more information on these and other developments contact

Johan Louw on 011-794-1177

www.renicoconstruction.co.za

3MAY 2018

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Power toolsMilwaukee power tools make construction a cinch...........................................................23

Product newsEfficient stormwater drainage solutions...........................24Revolutionary new processing equipment for recycling in construction..............................................26Slurry pumps push the boundaries of reliability in construction................................................28Van Dyck Floors teams up with MasterFibre SA...............30

Events 2018Events of interest to the construction industry.................31

Skills and trainingDesign of steel structures for multi-storey buildings.........31

People in ConstructionAurecon strengthens Gauteng Built Environment team with new Unit leader..................................................32

MBSA members and affiliates.........................32

MAY 20184

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Master Builders Association North recently hosted a seminar on the Guidance Notes to the Construction Regulations, Driven Machinery Regulations and Pressure

Equipment Regulations at the Bytes Conference Centre in Midrand. The workshop was well attended by over 100 delegates.

The keynote speaker was Adv. Hendrik Terblanche, Managing Director of Legricon Legal Risk and Compliance Consultants, with supplementary presentations delivered by Mr Phumi Maphaha: Director Construction, Explosives and MHI - Department of Labour’s, and Mr Jacob Malatse: Director Electrical and Mechanical.

Terblanche explained the difficulty with applying generic legislation to specific circumstances by quoting a 1907 court case where Chief Justice Innes said: “No matter how carefully words are chosen, there is a difficulty in selecting language which while on the face of it expressing generally the idea of the framer of the measure, will not, when applied under certain circumstances, go beyond it, and, when applied under other circumstances, fall short of it.” This is an apt description of applying the definition of construction work in the Construction Regulations to various activities, which literally would fall within the definition of construction work, but probably was not the intention of the legislature to regulate with the Construction Regulations.

Sometimes a statutory requirement need to be applied to a situation not mentioned in the legislation, and sometimes it needs to be excluded for a situation that clearly falls within the wording of the provision. In another case it was stated that “The intention of the legislature can alone be gathered from what it has actually said, and not from what it may have intended to say, but has not said.” If a too literal interpretation could lead to absurd results, it should not be followed.

Painting is a typical example of an activity that is unclear as to whether the Construction Regulations apply to it or not. According to the definition, if painting is renovation, it

should be considered as construction work, but if paining is maintenance, it would not be regarded as construction work. Terblanche mentioned a few other examples that are not clear, while the Guidance Notes do not give any further clarity in this regard.

Maphaha later confirmed that the purpose of the Guidance Notes was to explain the application of the Regulations in a little more detail, but the legal implications as stipulated by the State Law Advisors to the Department of Labour limited the content that they could include in the Guidance Notes.

Terblanche dealt with the Guidance Notes, but added additional information and concerns he often observes on how employers implement and comply with the Construction Regulations. Grey areas regarding the requirements for applying for a construction work permit were also highlighted, including the simple question as to whether the “contract value” above which it is a requirement to obtain a permit should be VAT inclusive or not. A delegate pointed out that the amounts for permit requirements are linked with the CIDB grading levels, but the current exemption from the Department of Labour is R40 million or CIDB grading level 7, while the CIDB grading level 6 is R40 million, and grading level 7 is R13 million. Terblanche argued that the CIDB levels are

Construction Regulations: Driven Machinery and Pressure Equipment

Keynote speaker Adv. Hendrik Terblanche, Managing Director of Legricon Legal Risk and Compliance Consultants

Gerhard Roets – MBA North Construction Health & Safety Manager pictured with Adv. Hendrik Terblanche

5MAY 2018

probably not the correct criteria to apply, as the CIDB grades contractors and not contracts. A contractor registered in grade 6 for example may therefore tender for a portion up to a value of R13 million of a larger contract, the total value of which could for example be R50 million.

Terblanche further pointed out that there are legal responsibility, and therefore liability, differences between the wording of the Regulations and the Guidance Notes, regarding the competency of client-nominated contractors that the principal contractor must appoint. Principal contractors should be cautious to just rely on the Guidance Notes in such instances.

Uncertainties in the regulations regarding legal appointments were also discussed, and elicited quite a few questions and comments from the floor. Terblanche welcomed the Guidance Notes explanations of the different role-players in respect of temporary works, namely the designer, inspector and approver. Compliance risks regarding scaffolding were also discussed.

In his presentation, Maphaha urged industry role-players, namely employers in the construction industry, to get more

involved in the development of legislation to avoid some of the concerns highlighted by Terblanche. He further argued that the principle of reasonably practicable as contained in the Occupational Health and Safety Act should always be kept in mind when interpreting and applying the Construction Regulations. He also hinted at some further construction permit exemptions and additional information on the Regulations that the Department may issue in the near future.

The Guidance Notes to the Driven Machinery Regulations and Pressure Equipment Regulations were then discussed, but Terblanche indicated that there were not any contentious issues in them. Time was spent discussing the legal requirements relating to lifting machinery and using cages to lift persons. Malatse, from the Department of Labour then expanded on the discussion and shared some of his insights into these regulations and its compliance challenges.

Mr. Mohau Mphomela, Executive Director - MBA North, closed the proceedings by thanking the participants, delegates, sponsors and exhibitors, which included SAIOSH, FEM, BCIMA, NIOH and E&R Signs.■

The workshop was well attended by over 100 delegates Phumi Maphaha: Director Construction, Explosives and MHI - Department of Labour

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Only a quarter of the way through 2018 and already there have been 412 accidents on Western Cape construction sites, with six fatalities and 58 people left permanently

disabled. This is according to figures from the Federated Employer’s Mutual Assurance Company (FEM), which provides workmen’s' compensation insurance to employers in the construction industry.

Deon Bester, Occupational Health and Safety Manager at the Master Builders Association of the Western Cape (MBAWC), says: “These figures are unacceptably high. We should be striving for zero fatalities and zero harm. Based on my experience, education can go a long way towards eliminating accidents and achieving this target.”

To this end, the MBAWC will be hosting a seminar on 20th June 2018 for mid-level management from Western Cape construction companies, where industry experts will deliver talks on a variety of health and safety related topics such as:• COIDA(CompensationforOccupationalInjuriesand Diseases Act): The facts;• Ethicsinhealthandsafety;• Scaffolding:Whatyouthoughtyouknewbutdon’t;

• OccupationalRiskExposureProfiles:Whytheyneedto be done properly;• Thescienceofhumanbehaviourinrespecttohealth and safety; and• UnpackingSection37oftheOccupationalHealthand Safety Act.

“I encourage all those who are committed to curbing accidents on site to attend so that they can stay abreast of what is going on in the industry, learning from thought leaders and networking with others,” concludes Bester.

The seminar will take place at Belmont Square Cape Town on 20 June and is open to both MBAWC members as well as non-members. Guests will be required to pay an attendance fee, with discounts available to members and FEM policy holders. ■

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The Department of Labour is still investigating the collapse of a building in Jacobs, south of Durban in March which left at least three

workers dead and several others seriously injured.

Details of the full incident are still unclear and remain a subject of investigations.

In May South African Builder spoke to Teboho Thejane, Departmental Spokesperson who refused to comment on progress of the investigation.

At least three workers died and several others were injured after being trapped underneath. The building next to the warehouse was also partially damaged. At the time of the incident the Department of Labour had dispatched a team of Occupational Health and Safety inspectors to investigate the cause of the incident.

The incident is being investigated in terms of Section 31 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 and to establish the cause of the incident.

According to the Department if the employer is foundto be negligent and flouted any aspect of the Occupational Health and Safety Act or its regulations, a recommendation to prosecute will be made to the National Prosecuting Authority.■

Durban building collapse – no outcome yet

Seminar Seeks to Slash the Number of Accidents on Western Cape Building Sites

Deon Bester, Occupational Health and Safety Manager at the Master Builders

Association of the Western Cape

7MAY 2018

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This report by Industry Insight reveals that the private building market has expanded by 13.6 percent in the second month of the year. The report is based on the latest data released by

Stats SA on the private building statistics.

The more building plans passed/approved by municipalities should theoretically lead to higher levels of construction in the future, as long as the building is not postponed or permanently shelved. In terms of building plans completed, there was a second consecutive downturn, with a contraction of 11.8 percent overall in February.

In terms of pipeline activity (SQM approved), while both sectors saw more approvals y-y, the non-residential sector saw a more handsome expansion. There were 28.1 percent more SQM of non-residential building plans passed in February, compared to a good, but more modest increase of 7.4 percent of residential SQM passed (the second consecutive increase). Boosting the non-residential pipeline was just over 120 000 SQM of warehousing and industrial related buildings approved, as well as almost 120 000 SQM of office and commercial space approved in February. Year on year, expansion of 11.4 percent, and 60.0 percent respectively. Shopping centres saw a marginal 2.9 percent contraction, but the longer term averages still sit at very high levels and seem to be the gift that just keeps on giving, even though in our opinion, there is a stark over supply of shopping centres in South Africa, to a large degree, especially in the metropolitan areas.

The residential market was boosted by just over 280 000 SQM of flats and townhouses approved in the

February, translating to a 14.7 percent y-y increase, and breaks the downward cycle in this category as this marks the first y-y increase in 6 months, in a category that has underperformed in terms of approvals in our opinion. Luxury homes (or free standing dwellings bigger than 80 SQM) recorded a 2 percent increase in the number of SQM approved y-y (just under 320 000 SQM approved), and low cost hosing (free standing dwellings smaller than 80 SQM) saw a good 22.2 percent increase in SQM approved, which marks the 6th consecutive month of increase.

Overall, pipeline activity increased in five provinces throughout South Africa, namely the Western Cape (2.5 percent expansion), Eastern Cape (16.9 percent expansion), Northern Cape (12.7 percent expansion) Kwazulu Natal (7.8 percent expansion) and Limpopo (0.5 percent expansion). For more a more in depth provincial analysis, please download the statistics/dashboard in the link below.

Overall, February was a good month for the private building market, with some growth in key areas, and largely across the board. The longer term growth figures have improved slightly, and are only marginally in negative territory for the residential market (a 1.0 percent contraction over the last 12 months), while the non-residential market has recorded a 5.8 percent decline over the last year. Overall, there have been 2.5 percent less SQM of total building plans approved over the last year (until February 2018), compared to the previous 12 month period. We do expect this number to increase moderately throughout 2018. ■

Good expansion of 13.6 percent in SQM approved in February (Stats SA)

Deloitte Africa recently celebrated the start of construction on its iconic new Africa headquarters in Midrand (Image: Deloitte)

MAY 20188

AfriSam has shown its commitment to the concrete industry associations through its headline sponsorship for this years’ The Concrete Conference 2018 (TCC) which takes place at the

Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg from 1-2 August

Other corporate companies that have invested in the success of the conference are Chryso, PPC, Sephaku Cement, KonkreteGlobal with sponsorships of breakaway events such as the Concrete Quiz which takes place the night prior to the conference on 31 July 2018 at High Flyers on the same premises, as well as sponsoring refreshments, lunch and pre-dinner drinks respectively.

Underlining the importance of this joint event is the strong support from some of the best-known names in the industry who will be exhibiting at the event including AfriSam, Mapei, Chryso, Sika, Nissan, Basilisk Self-Healing Concrete, Isuzu and Carmix.

Says Johan van Wyk, organiser of TCC, “Basilisk will be launching their self-healing concrete at the conference, imagine that, concrete that heals cracks, while

KonkreteGlobal will show the first robotic non-entry readymix truck cleaning system in South Africa.”

He continues that the first day’s proceedings will culminate in a gala dinner where the SARMA readymix awards will be presented bolstered by top-rack entertainment and acts that include singer/drummer/comedian and the evening’s MC, Gino Fabbri.Highlights and speakers• ProfHenkJonkersfromDelftUniversityofTechnology will be presenting a paper on technology behind self- healing concrete• MaxMoyo,worldrenownedspeaker,willmotivateand lead delegates into the future

• Leonvan der Westhuizen from BrainRx will do some brain training.• AllesandroBernacchiafromGermanyandAndrea Bonomi, from Italy, will be presenting case studies on extrusion kerbing and mobile batching respectively• TCCwillalsofeaturefeedbackonthestateofconcrete standards, including concrete test methods, aggregate test methods, water retaining structures and design codes • Therewillalsobeafeedbackandpaneldiscussionon the consolidation of the concrete industry associations• Otherspeakerswilldiscussenergyefficientconcrete roofs, cellular concrete and case studies on the Bosjes Chapel, Fourways Mall precast concrete and Zeitz MOCAA ■

All systems go for concrete industry’s TCC 2018

Johan van Wyk is the chairman of the organising committee of The Concrete Conference

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TCC 2017 brought together the industry associations and all the role players

The African Construction and Totally Concrete Expo 2018 staged at Gallagher Estate in Midrand in May was a resounding success.

The quality of exhibits and level of expertise on each was of the highest standard, as was the calibre of visitor attending the expo and its many workshops and panel discussions.

Geoffrey Green, Marketing Manager of Mapei told South African Builder that: “The number of strong and positive enquiries we've received on the first morning alone have far exceed that of the entire 2017 expo.”

Another well known product supplier to the constructions sector, A Shak, told us that increasing their floor space at this year's Expo was more than justified by the level of enquiries received.

Roy Mnisi and Mohau Mphomela – Executive Directors of Master Builders South Africa and of Master Builders Association North respectively, represented the building and construction sector in a panel discussion on infrastructure, during which they pledged to engage closely with the NHBRC and the Gauteng MEC on Infrastructure to provide support and direction in the provision of qualified contractors from its membership base.

Construction expo a resounding success

9MAY 2018

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This report by Roy Cokayne of Business Report examines the typical impact that delays by Treasury in processing project approvals is having on companies in our embattled

construction sector:

“South Africa's construction sector is experiencing extremely challenging market conditions, with a lack of tenders issued by the SA National Roads Agency (Sanral), provinces and municipalities in the past six months because of delays in obtaining National Treasury approval.

Rudolf Fourie, chief executive of Raubex, the listed road construction and rehabilitation, infrastructure and building materials group, said last week that Raubex’s order book for Sanral contracts had decreased by 46.8 percent in the past six months and its provincial order book by 53.9 percent while its municipal order book was down by 11.1 percent.

Fourie said Sanral had brought out only about three or four tenders in the past six months.

He said Raubex had two engagements with Sanral during which the agency indicated “they have 54 projects waiting to be released as soon as Treasury gives the go-ahead”.

Fourie said there is also a total lack of expenditure on infrastructure by provinces and municipalities.

He said the low order book intake in the second half of the group's financial year to February impacted negatively on the results of the road construction and earthworks division, because of excess plant and idle staff being retained in anticipation of an improvement in the overall conditions in the construction sector.

Fourie said Raubex had been forced to concentrate on projects in Africa and expand into the Australian market,

because of the lack of work in South Africa. Raubex also discontinued the operations of L&R Civils and Strata Civils in its infrastructure division, with the loss of 340 jobs.

Fourie said the closure of L&R Civils, Raubex’s water and sanitation and pipelines business, was “sad”, because they acquired the company five years ago in the belief there would be so much water-related work in South Africa they would be unable to keep up.

Fourie said Raubex Renovo, a new business focused on renovating commercial buildings, had secured two contracts in Cameroon worth a total of about R700 million for the construction of an hotel for the French-based Onomo Hotel Group and a shopping mall for Actis. He said contracts in Africa accounted for 30 percent of the group’s revenue.

Raubex recently a 13.3 percent increase in headline earnings a share to 228.6 cents in the year to February from 201.7c in the previous year. Revenue dropped by 5.1 percent to R8.54 billion from R9 billion.

Operating profit improved by 1.5 percent to R671.9million from R661.7m, but dropped by 14percent if the non-recurring payment related to the Voluntary Rebuilding Programme agreement with the government in the prior year was excluded. “ ■

Continued delays by Treasury hamper construction sector

Roy CokayneImage: Business Report

A detailed report on the Expo will be published in the June issue of South African Builder, as well as online at www.sabuilder.co.za

MAY 201810

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Millennials are not only the most tech savvy generation but have new perspectives on complex issues, new approaches to solving age old dilemmas and innovative solutions to

problems that have stymied previous generations.

This year’s winner of the Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Award, Renée Minnaar from the University of Pretoria, is one such game changer. Her thesis, entitled, ‘Remediator - Restoring the dichotomous relationship between industry and nature through an urban eco-textile mill and dye house’ impressed the judges with its insightful way of tackling quintessentially South African issues that cross generations and present compelling reasons to rethink the local built environment in South Africa.

Speaking at the awards ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Sandton, Johannesburg, CEO of Corobrik, Mr Dirk Meyer, said that it was an honour to recognise the present and future contributions of those who were entering the design and construction realm at a time when meaningful solutions to age old problems were becoming more urgent than ever.

In this annual competition, the country’s best architectural students from eight major universities were identified based on their final theses and presented with awards throughout 2017. The winners of each of the regional competitions competed for the national title and a prize of R50 000.

Judges for this year’s Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Award were Maryke Cronje from Project Worx in Pretoria, Luyanda Mphalwa from Design Space Architects

in Cape Town and Tanzeem Razak from Lemon Pebble Architects in Johannesburg.

“As this competition enters its fourth decade, we are all too aware that the context in which the architects of the future will be operating is changing extremely rapidly,” he said.

Meyer said that the rapidly changing design technology and software that was now at the disposal of up and coming architects like the eight finalists for the 2018 Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Award, were just part of a far bigger picture.

Today’s young professionals were not only looking to rapid and meaningful solutions backed by superior technology and connectivity but were also demanding a degree of authenticity that was often missing in the past.

“This year’s theme is technology and the ever changing landscape. This is an exciting time for clay brick which is essentially a technology that has stood both the test of time and change. A technology that drove the original industrial revolution is today addressing pressing issues such as environmental degradation and sustainability. Now, more than ever, the fact that clay brick is durable, non-toxic, reusable, energy efficient and low maintenance will be key,” he said.

Speaking at the awards event, principal of 26’10 south Architects, Thorsten Deckler, highlighted current brick trends, highlighting the Barnato Hall project. This a five floor extension to an existing, prominently located residence on the University of Witwatersrand’s West Campus and includes the innovative use of exposed

Renée Minnaar scoops first place at the 31st Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Award

>>12

Renée Minnaar of the University of Pretoria is the winner of the 31st Corobrik Architectural Student Awards. She is pictured with her thesis model, entitled Remediator - Restoring the dichotomous relationship between industry and nature through an urban eco-textile mill and dye house

MAY 201812

brick facades employing a range of face bricks produced by Corobrik. It addresses the urgent need for student accommodation during a difficult evolution in the history of tertiary institutions in South Africa.

Minnaar, who currently lives in Newlands with her husband, grew up in Pretoria. “I believe in always giving 110% when it comes to my work, to prevent feeling like I could have done more at the end of a project. When I am not aspiring to become an architect, I enjoy cooking, hiking and staying busy with various creative projects, “she explains.

Her dissertation, entitled Remediator - Restoring the dichotomous relationship between industry and nature through an urban eco-textile mill and dye house, investigates the potential of redundant industrial sites like the old Johannesburg Gasworks to mitigate the environmental and social issues resulting from the past to reintegrate the site back into the surrounding urban fabric.

She says that industrialization brought about dramatic changes in many major cities around the world, including Johannesburg. However, rapid technological advancements have resulted in the abandonment of many industrial sites often within the confines of expanding cities as is the case with the old Johannesburg Gasworks.

“Through the understanding and application of environmental and heritage theories, this dissertation hopes to find a means of using architecture as a tool to mediate the dichotomous relationship between industry and nature, resulting from an exploitative world view, and inspire a new archetype for industrial architecture, that is able to inspire mutually beneficial relationships between industry and nature, whilst creating a didactic and dialectical relationship between the existing industrial heritage of the past and the envisioned contemporary architecture of the future.

Prof Arthur Barker, MProf coordinator, Research, Archive coordinator and Heritage and Cultural Landscapes Research Coordinator, noted that, over the years, the university’s Department of Architecture had developed research directions that focussed specifically on environment potential, heritage and cultural landscapes and human settlements and urbanism.

“It is with this frame of reference that Reneé Minnaar chose to focus on adaptive reuse principles in the historic gas works precinct in Johannesburg. She has successfully synthesised often conflicting, architectural approaches to industrial heritage through her revisions of the principles of philological restoration and regenerative architectural theory. Over and above these approaches, she has created a rich, sensitive, social and economic environment through the revival of lost manufacturing processes in the City of Gold. Through these approaches, she has repaired broken urban fabric, healed a polluted site, breathed new life into important historical relics and provided much needed educational and economic opportunities for the local inhabitants,” he said.

Baker said that, through this award, Corobrik had provided a prestigious reward for Masters’ in Architecture students.

“After the many years that the competition has run, the projects rewarded by Corobrik are still revered by current students, setting benchmarks to live up to. The judging criteria and status of the judges furthers enhances the prestige and pushes students to consistently improve their design processes, intellectual rigour and presentation. The thematic foci that Corobrik have created are extremely important in guiding and assessing the relevance of architectural practice in South Africa.”

He also noted that, clay brick as a building material, had a rich architectural history which was built on by many Pretoria regionalist architects in the post-war period. “Our students are fortunate to be able to build on this legacy, together with Corobrik’s technological advances, to extend the possibilities of brick into the 21st century.” ■

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from page 10 Renée Minnaar scoops first place at the 31st...

Dirk Meyer, CEO of Corobrik: “It is an honour to recognise the present and future contributions of those who are entering the design and construction

realm at a time when meaningful solutions to age-old problems are becoming more urgent than ever”.

The finalists of the Corobrik Architectural Student of the Year Awards are from left to right:Back row: Dirk Meyer, Corobrik CEO with finalists Margeaux Adams, Sarah Treherne, Su-Elna Bester and Renée Minnaar this year’s winner and Peter du Trevou, Corobrik Chairman.

Front row: Yusuf Vawda, Reply Mahlangu, Warren van Niekerk and Matthew Morris

13MAY 2018

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One hundred and eighty architects and built environment professionals gathered in Pretoria on Friday 4 May 2018 for the prestigious Corobrik SAIA Institute of Architects (SAIA)

Awards evening. Through this event, top architectural projects of recent times were recognised.

“The Corobrik SAIA Awards programme is run nationally every two years and this year, as president of SAIA and convenor of the awards programme, I had the privilege of being part of this prestigious awards programme,” said Maryke Cronje. “SAIA’s mission is to pursue excellence and responsible design. It is also to uphold the dignity of the Architectural profession and contribute meaningfully to the enhancement of society and the environment. These awards ratify SAIA’s mission by recognising and promoting excellence in architecture.

“We are delighted to have received a more varied cross-section of projects than in previous years. This is also a tribute the impressively high standard of entries at regional level.”

“In travelling to the sites of all short-listed entries we have seen that sustainability and care for the environment has been prominent with architects emphasising the nurturing of the environment. There is a great use of natural and sustainable materials as well as consideration for the landscape.

“While some materials used are imported, local tradespeople were used so that when a project was complete the tradesmen walked off the site with a set of skills that could be applied elsewhere. This is good for our country,” said Cronje.

Bryan Wallis, acting CEO of SAIA, said “The standard of projects submitted seems to improve exponentially at each of the national awards, and this year is no exception with the quality higher than ever before. We are delighted that the members of SAIA are constantly advancing in technicality and design and this year’s entries can be benchmarked against global standards.

The six recipients of the Awards for Excellence are:· New Residence, 151 Main Road, Constantia designed by Malan Vorster Architecture;· The Delville Wood Memorial submitted by The Creative Axis Architects in association with Mayat Hart Architects;· The Johannesburg Holocaust and Genocide Centre by Lewis Levin Architects· Sasol Place entered by Paragon Architects;· The Lake House designed by KOOP Design;· NZASM Footsteps along the tracks written by Nicholas J Clarke and Roger C Fisher. ■

Innovation and design excellence recognised at Corobrik SAIA Architectural Awards

Maryke Cronje, president of the South African Institute of Architects

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tory In Bergbron, to the west of Johannesburg and just

off Gordon Road, Renico Construction currently has a number of upmarket residential developments in progress, along with a commercial project in

Randpark Ridge.

Driven by Nico Louw’s enthusiasm, these projects are moving swiftly and efficiently. Coupled to the benefit of the Renico-owned support companies of Renico Plant Hire, Renico Earthworks and Civils and Jahno Bricks is their system of detailed pre-planning, site preparation, civils and road making capabilities, in-house procurement and of course construction expertise second-to-none.

BERGBRON:Renico has been active in the Bergbron area for a number of years. Having completed the Forest Gate residential complex some eight years ago, the company then acquired the remaining Portion 57 of the farm Waterval 211 in 2015.

“This paved the way for the development of six additional residential complexes, all adjacent to one another, and as with all our more recent residential developments all will have energy saving features, pre-paid metres, be wired for fibre and fitted for access to TV” explained Poalo Caldas, Project Manager for all six Bergbron developments, three of which are currently under construction or have been recently completed.

Construction work falls under members of Renico’s dedicated team of Site-Managers with the civils services and road works being managed by Francois Louw from Renico Earthworks and Civils.

Camden: Comprising 47 townhouses, all with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and pet friendly gardens and 12 apartments, Camden, managed by Site Manager Louw Pretorius, was completed and handed over on 26 April 2018.

Bexley:The recently completed Bexley residential estate in Bergbron, managed by Site Manager Giel Pieterse is currently undergoing final snag checking. Built as an investment property, it will be ready for occupation by tenants from 1 June 2018. All 68 apartment styled homes offer 2 spacious bedrooms with 2 bathrooms, an open plan kitchen and tiled lounge area and either a covered patio or balcony.

Kingsbury: This development, comprising 160 units in two- and three-storey configuration is being constructed under the watchful eye of Site Manager Johnny Jacobs.

Started on 1 November 2017 and due for completion in July 2018, the project encountered the unexpected challenge of underlying rock on the site. This required blasting in order for construction to continue and resulted in a delay of some four weeks. Strategic positioning of the buildings was also necessary due to Rand Water pipelines running below ground.

Renico Construction – the epitome of a Master Builder

Renico's sprawling Bergbron precinct of no fewer than than six new residential developments

The Renico Construction Bergbron team: Francois Louw, Poalo Caldas – Project Manager, Giel Pieterse, Johnny Jacobs and Louw Pretorius

Corobrik facebrick is used throughout all of these projects and stock cement bricks are supplied by Janho Bricks,

a division of Renico. Paving throughout is supplied by Technicrete

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ryFuture Bergbron Developments: Three more Bergbron developments are ready on the drawing boards for construction to begin imminently. These are Sheffield, Kenton and Hampton.

RANDPARK RIDGE:Eagle Canyon Office Park Renico commenced work on the Eagle Canyon Office Park, early in 2018. With a floor area of 6 478 m2, of which 62% has already been sold, management of its construction is in the capable hands of Site Manager Johannes Muller and it is due for completion at the end 2018. Designed by Krige Angerson Professional Architects, the office block is aesthetically pleasing and allows for the maximum amount of natural light to reach the interior. The circulation of fresh air is also promoted to reduce the amount of air-conditioning required. The basement will provide parking for 183 cars with access to the ground, 1st and 2nd floor via three lifst.

Two challenges have had to be addressed during development so far.

Initially piling was planned for a depth of 4m, but ultimately a depth of 12m was required due to ground conditions. “With 201 piles required, this work was undertaken by Mega Pile who provided excellent service and quality throughout,” explained Muller. Further to this, 237 columns were constructed around which the actual building is being constructed. Instant Readymix supplied the concrete for these along with that for the retaining walls and slabs, specified at 30mpa, while all other concrete work for the building is specified at 25mpa.

Then in April over 100mm of continuous rain caused severe flooding of the basement works and it required two days to pump the area dry - not too serious a challenge but a small setback nonetheless on a tight schedule.

Renico Earthworks & Civils completed the initial site preparation and platform work for the building, and are currently working on the required intersection upgrade adjacent to the building on the corner of Christiaan de Wet Road and Dolfyn Street. ■

For more information on these and other developments contact

Johan Louw

on 011-794-1177www.renicoconstruction.co.za

Renico Construction have numerous active construction projects in progress

at any one time in the residential, industrial and commercial sectors,

including warehouses.

On average about 500-600 people are deployed on site across all

projects in Gauteng, Limpopo and North West Province

Johannes Muller, Site Foreman, Eagle Canyon Office Park

Peri formwork being hoisted into position

In April over 100mm of rain caused severe flooding of the basement works which required two days to pump dry

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Talk about Light Steel Frame (LSF) building and what probably comes to mind for most readers are residential buildings, low-rise office blocks, fast-food outlets and other structures built by owners

or developers that want energy-efficient, green, aesthetic buildings that can be built accurately and quickly. We have however noticed of late that it is LSF roof structures that are making headlines and two recent projects exemplify this trend.

The first is the complex, curved Ultra-Span LSF roof structure for the Mpumalanga-based Kingdom Leadership Centre, a training and education facility developed by the Joe Singh group.

The challenge was to build a scissor bow-string truss over a 20 m clear-span section with additional mono bow-string truss sections on either side, making a total building width of 42 m. In addition, the client wanted the roof structure to combine two end-projecting dog-leg hipped roof sections with the main roof section on a fully curved end wall – a significant challenge in itself!

“This was a particularly complex job,” says Uwe Schluter. GM of the Ultra-Span (LSF) division at MiTek, South Africa. “But ultimately this project showcased how flexible Ultra-Span LSF steel is and how it makes it possible to design and to erect a complex roof safely, cost-effectively and on time.”

He adds though that this is only possible if the contracting company has the requisite skills. “In this regard, I must complement EcoStruct’s Jacques Cloete who designed this structure on the MiTek 20/20 roof structure software package with full 3D resolution, which certainly helped in achieving all the complex curves and jointing lines,” Schluter says.

The result was an extremely light-weight 3 250 m² roof structure utilizing only 8.7 kg/m² of LSF sections, roll-formed using ArcelorMittal’s high strength galvanised steel sheet. This meant a total mass of only 28.3 tons of LSF for the entire roof structure.

John Barnard, director of the Southern African Light Steel Frame Building Association (Sasfa), says that key to this project was the assembly of ‘clusters of trusses’ on the ground - which significantly increased the safety of the process - and then lifting and positioning them with a long reach mobile crane – which increases the speed of the process. “The combination of low mass, safety and speed translates into cost-effectiveness,” he says.

To achieve this, EcoStrut utilized a 160-ton mobile crane with a long reach capability, enabling the erector to lift simultaneously five pre-assembled braced roof truss clusters into the final position. “This meant that it took only one day to lift all 46 trusses of the main roof into position thereby greatly reducing the total time spent on site,” Barnard says.

The second project, the Global Leadership Academy (GLA) School Hall in Jeffrey’s Bay - joint-winner of the LSFB category at Steel Awards 2017 – also illustrated the advantages of the MiTek Ultra-Span (LSF) product in the erection of large complex roofs.

The project entailed the establishment of a world class, green education facility on a tight budget with the main challenge for architect Jacobus Scott being to come up with innovative solutions for a multi-use gathering area, which required a long span roof design. He turned to the MiTek Ultra-Span (LSF) system for the solution and this was perfect in these circumstances.

Light Steel Frame Building shows its metal in roofing

Key to the Kingdom Leadership Centre project was the assembly of ‘clusters of trusses’ on the ground - which significantly increased the safety of the process - and then lifting and positioning them with a long reach mobile crane

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“The MiTek team designed and installed a cost-effective solution that not only looks impressive, but also effectively solved design and engineering problems that could never have been overcome with a traditional roofing system,” says Uwe Schluter of MiTek.

All trusses were designed to span parallel to the traditional supports, essentially producing trusses also serving as purlins. Ultra-Span girders were created at the ends to support short span trusses to comply with the required minimum ceiling height.

This idea was also adopted in the middle section of the roof to act as stability braces for the window panels, which were made with MiTek’s LSF wall framing product to allow for very specific window sizes, and to provide flat surfaces for the fixing of such windows. These window panels were manufactured in several parts to ease installation.

In typical Ultra-Span style, the 19 m trusses were pre-assembled in braced pairs and then lifted into their final position on the roof ensuring fast erection of the roof structure and other installation works to continue on a stable platform.

Satisfied customer, Stefan Kleyn from the GLA, says the MiTek team designed and installed a cost-effective solution that not only looks impressive but is also an extraordinary feat of engineering.

Barnard says that these two projects are indicative of an area of construction where LSF is increasingly playing an important role. “It is not only perfect for complex, long -span roofing structures, but LSF building is becoming increasingly relevant in a construction environment that is facing rising costs in materials and transport and in an end-user environment where energy costs are soaring and environmental issues are paramount,” he concludes. ■

Key to the Kingdom Leadership Centre project was the assembly of ‘clusters of trusses’ on the ground - which significantly increased the safety of the process -

and then lifting and positioning them with a long reach mobile crane

The complex, curved Ultra-Span LSF roof structure for the Mpumalanga-based Kingdom Leadership Centre

The Global Leadership Academy (GLA) School Hall in Jeffrey’s Bay - joint-winner of the LSFB category at Steel Awards 2017 – also illustrates the advantages of the MiTek Ultra-Span (LSF) product in the erection of large complex roofs

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Precast concrete structures offer many cost savings to construction projects but evaluating these benefits in terms of clear cost calculations and precast product selection is essential.

Elematic, based in Finland, offer a Concept Design Service to those manufacturers and contractors wishing to shift from traditional construction to precast technology.

“This service assists our customers in understanding the feasibility of adopting this technology as it includes an evaluation of how their current and future projects could be structured using precast and whether to use complete or composite structures. The performance of the precast building in local ground conditions and the required precast product types are also evaluated” said Prakash Shah, Head Technical Support, Elematic India.

The ProcessWith its global experience in precast production and application, Elematic can provide assistance throughout the process required to successfully implement a precast concrete solution by choosing the most suitable concept design, preparing for concept design project and concept design.

When considering a new construction method, it is important to have a professional partner to work with in order to reach the best possible outcomes. The following are considerations when selecting a structural engineering partner in the precast field:●ensurethatthedesignengineershavesound knowledge on precast industry developments along with good practice in successful implementation of systems.●havetheygainedexperienceongeographicallyvaried projects, international structural standards and utilisation of varied programmes?

The engineers should also have a sound knowledge of precast production, plant operations and efficient working methods as well as structural connections and their lifetime behaviour.

The starting point to evaluating the suitability of precast to a project is the understanding of the project in totality. Architectural drawings including layouts, elevations, sections and special features are required as well as details of building utility service arrangements, local seismic details and costs of structural materials.

The end result of a concept design project is the final reporting which will include all information that will be required for adapting precast construction, such as basis of structural analysis and design, outline structural framing with precast arrangement, typical connection details of various precast elements, sizing, geometrical details and number of precast product types including reinforcement, pre-stressing and concrete strengths, suggested changes to architectural design for efficient building and details of production set-up/precast machinery and equipment requirements.

Projects in India“In India we assisted KEF Infrastructure, developer of the PMHS Hospital. Their original plans were old fashioned, labour intensive with a complex production and execution. After conducting a Concept Design for the hospital building showing how modern precast concrete technology can be implemented, KEF Infrastructure was able to set up a productive and cost-efficient solution for the hospital development” said Shah.

The BSBK Group, also in India, was awarded a government contract for 6 300 housing units with a time-frame of just 36 months. BSBK were responsible for the building design, infrastructure and total project

Evaluating precast concrete suitability for construction projects

The BSBK factory in India shows the Elematic SEMIWall multifunction wagon tilting

>>22

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Concor Buildings is synonymous with delivering fast track projects to the desired quality, on time and most importantly within budget.

Martin Muller, contracts manager at Concor Buildings, ascribes this characteristic as one of the reasons why the company secured the contract to construct the new student housing accommodation in Streatley Avenue, Auckland Park.

Being developed by Century Property Developments, The Campus, when completed at the end of 2018, will provide accommodation for 800 students predominantly from Wits and UJ. This will mitigate some of the shortages being experienced with student accommodation close to the tertiary education institutions.

Construction work started in January this year and practical completion is targeted for November 2018. This will allow the finishing trades access to ready the apartments for occupation in early 2019.

Designed with an industrial look and feel, The Campus is a four and six storey building with two basement levels. The multi-storey structure will house several communal areas including study rooms, computer labs, conference rooms, a games room and a gym facility.

Significantly, The Campus will be pursuing an EDGE Sustainability Certificate through the Green Building Council of South Africa. This international rating system looks at three key areas being energy, water and materials.

Describing the construction methodologies being used, Muller says that an in-situ cast concrete base structure was cast up to the ground floor transfer slab and that everything above this level is a combination of load

bearing brickwork with precast slab elements and various steel finishes.

The sections above the transfer slab vary from four storey to six storey structures with eight apartment blocks in total. The design of the complex features a central core area which will house the access lifts, a pool and gym, a canteen and other services. The basement area will accommodate both parking and storage facilities for the students. All apartments will be fully furnished making it an easy rental for students.

Once the load bearing brickwork is completed, the precast slab elements which include floor slabs and staircases will follow.

An interesting challenge for the contractor is that the construction site is taking place within a residential area which is rich in heritage and care has to be taken at all times to adhere to the local by-laws and residents’ requests.

Adding to this factor, there are additional logistical challenges as the site itself is spread over 235 metres with an extremely narrow roadway making access to site challenging. To mitigate materials handling activities, Concor Buildings erected two tower cranes which were strategically placed to service the entire construction site.

“Fast track projects are challenging at the best of times but with these logistical factors at play we have had to pay even more attention to detail in planning,” Muller says. “It is critical that materials are delivered at the correct time to the correct location as there is no space for the stockpiling of materials on site. This means delivery of all bulk materials must dovetail accurately with the construction programme.”

Exemplary fast track student accommodation project

Work is underway on Concor Buildings' contract to construct new student housing accommodation in Auckland Park

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He explains that during the detailed planning process, the team used resource linking to the various activities to ensure sufficient resources are available when and where needed. In this manner, the company has been able to mitigate most issues.

“It is this level of planning and the control of information flow that makes a fast track project a success, and it also calls for close communication between the client, the professional team, us and the many sub-contractors that are on site,” Muller says.

Majority of the finishing trades will be done by selected sub-contractors, and Muller says that the focus here has been on ensuring overall quality while controlling the cost. The polished concrete floor and ceilings will have an off-shutter finish from the slab elements above. The walls will be mostly whitewashed, and the furniture and finishes will be modular with a modern industrial look.

Safety, as always, is a non-negotiable on Concor Buildings’ projects but constructing within a residential area has required an even more focussed approach. Maintaining absolute safety on the roadway is vital and additional personnel have been put in place to ensure this.

Another important factor is working at height, especially on a project which is fast track in nature. Skilled tower crane operators are essential and Muller says that they will play an important role when it comes to lifting and positioning the precast elements.

Concor Buildings’ Visible Felt Leadership strategy can be seen on site, and management often takes part in the daily safety task instructions briefings showing solid leadership and commitment to the company’s safety objectives.

“We are synonymous with delivering fast track projects on time, within budget and to the required specifications, and to be able to do this is all about team work and understanding what is required of each individual. We have a cohesive team and ongoing communication is vital. The team includes a lot of strong young professionals who bring energy to the project,” Muller concludes. ■

Being developed by Century Property Developments, The Campus will provide accommodation for 800 students

Designed with an industrial look and feel, The Campus is a four and six storey building being constructed by Concor Buildings

completion. After engaging with Elematic, their analysis suggested a SEMI precast plant consisting of a SEMI floor and SEMI wall line. This enabled BSBK to meet daily production requirements whilst still coming in on budget.

Sandeep Sharma, Business Development Manager at Elematic commented “The SEMI lines offer an effective alternative that can efficiently produce up to 600 square feet per day and production does not require in-depth knowledge by staff. The SEMI floor line is an ideal investment to start with precast construction as it does not involve much automation but still produces high quality wall panels with a total concrete volume of around 150 M3 on a daily basis”.

Elematic technology and assistance is being successfully utilised in Gauteng and the Western Cape in South Africa for affordable housing developments by local municipalities as well as private property developers. “On top of the feasibility studies, we will assist in the finalising of building details and the setting up of a precast plant. Our commitment is to our customer base and we promise a lifetime commitment – from design to the complete lifecycle of the factory” concluded Shah. ■

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Waterkloof Quarry, an old 58-hectare landmark, situated on the border of Waterkloof Ridge and Monument Park near Pretoria is to be developed into an upmarket retirement estate

known as the Waterkloof Marina Retirement Estate and is due to launch early in 2019.

Rocla was selected to manufacture and supply all the stormwater (spigot and socket) and interlocking pipes for the project.

Hannes Bezuidenhout, Estimator from Advance Projects said “This exciting development will consist of a mixed-use development which will offer a large selection of sectional title and full ownership retirement units and full support facilities such as a 24-hour frail care centre, medical centre, restaurants, recreation facilities – and I believe the Waterkloof Dam is still good for bass fishing!”.

“However, it was not without its challenges. The size of the pipes required for the development and the proximity of the pipe trenches to existing roads created some logistic issues in terms of excavation materials, pipe deliveries and existing traffic flow.

Rocla understood these issues and ensured that pipe deliveries were as we requested and that pipes were off-loaded as close to the excavated trenches as possible for ease of installation” Bezuidenhout commented.

“The timeframe for pipe delivery was a mere three months and it was Rocla’s capability to meet this timeframe, their competitive pricing and product availability that secured them the contract to supply over 614 assorted stormwater pipes. The whole project duration is six months said Bezuidenhout.

“Obviously when there are existing roads nearby or trench excavation working space is small, the delivery of large stormwater pipes can be problematic for contractors at site. At the Waterkloof Marina Retirement Estate project these factors needed to be addressed, particularly for the delivery of our large stormwater pipes, so that no major inconvenience or disruption to excavation scheduling occurred. I believe Rocla successfully met these specific challenges” said Brendon van Vuuren, Sales Consultant for Rocla.

Rocla’s spigot and socket stormwater pipes use the rolling rubber ring principal and no lubricant is required. Pipes within this category may be ordered as both stormwater culvert (SC) or stormwater and irrigation (SI) pipes. SI pipes are hydrostatically tested after manufacturing.

Rocla is one of South Africa’s leading manufacturer or precast concrete products for the infrastructure sector and is part of the IS Group of companies which includes Technicrete and Ocon Brick. ■

New pipes transform old quarry into upmarket retirement estate

Waterkloof Quarry on the border of Waterkloof Ridge, Pretoria, is soon to is to be developed

Waterkloof Marina Retirement Estate and is due to launch early in 2019

Central Developments, market leaders in retirement

developments, recently announced

the launch of the very exclusive Waterkloof Marina Retirement

Estate.

In addition to the excellent upmarket

locality of the Waterkloof area, the retirement estate will offer modern houses and apartments with all the facilities and

support services that Central Developments’ retirement villages are

so well known for.

23

Trade-specific tools from Milwaukee such as battery-powered drain cleaners for plumbing applications, and large hydraulic cable cutters, are available locally from distributor Upat.

This focus on trade-specific tools is what sets Milwaukee apart as the premium tool brand for construction and related professionals. For example, globally the company offers a broad range comprising over 100 types of hand tools, over 120 tools operated on the M18 battery platform, over 65 tools operated on the M12 battery platform, and over 150 corded tools.

While Upat does not distribute the entire Milwaukee range due to logistics and economies-of-scale, it focuses on those products that add specific value to the local construction and related industries – and in particular those tools that can improve quality of workmanship and reduce project time, Milwaukee Product Specialist Werner Koch highlights.

Another important benefit for the construction industry and related professionals is the high level of after-sales service offered. “If our distribution partners’ cannot repair or service a tool in-branch, it is sent to the Milwaukee central service centre in Johannesburg, which we operate,” explains Koch.

Here the tool is stripped and assessed, and any recommendations made with regard to the replacement of critical wear-and-tear components, or general

maintenance such as regreasing, following which the tool is returned to the customer as speedily as possible.Milwaukee also offers a standard one-year manufacturer’s warranty on all of its tools, while the battery technology deployed has a standard two-year warranty for added peace-of-mind. In addition, Upat offers customers full training on all of the Milwaukee tools that it sells.“One of the main reasons we provide customer training is to ensure the correct and safe application of all our Milwaukee tools, which is why we place such a major emphasis on education and awareness,” Koch highlights. Competency certificates are issued upon successful completion of the requisite training.

A unique feature of these certificates is that they are issued to customers in both a full-sized and pocket version, which means that construction industry and related professionals can have a handy version on their person at all times to indicate that they are fully certified to operate the Milwaukee tools in question, which enhances safety on-site. ■

Milwaukee power tools make construction a cinch

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Upat SA (Pty) Ltd., a 100% South African owned business, began trading in 1983 as the sole Southern African distributor of the fischer range of construction fasteners which includes anchor bolts, chemical anchors, nylon plugs and so on. From the outset, Upat has been committed to the building and construction industry, supplying not only a range of anchor bolts, but

also rotary hammer drilling machines, tungsten-tipped masonry drill bits, powder actuated tools, and allied building and construction products. The aim was to supply a range of top-quality products at market-related prices. This philosophy

resulted in Upat becoming a market leader market leader in Southern Africa within a decade.

The Milwaukee brand is predicated on the slogan “Nothing but heavy duty”

Werner Koch, Milwaukee Product Specialist

Milwaukee provides trade specific tools to make construction a cinch

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Ineffective drainage causes a multitude of issues when areas such as roadways, parking lots, walkways and areas around buildings become

swamped with large volumes of non-dispersing water. The Beany Block from Technicrete – a member of the ISG Group- is an efficient and practical solution for effective drainage due to its large flow capacity/unit weight ratio, making it a more cost-effective solution than conventional kerbing and drainage offerings.

The Beany Block system comprises a series of base blocks of standard channel section and Top Blocks of inverted channel section with an opening in one side face. When laid end to end they form a combined kerb and surface water drainage unit that is strong enough to withstand normal traffic loading.

Each standard top and base block is 500 mm in length and weighs approximately 85 kg. They have also been designed to withstand accidental 80KN axle loading. The top block oval openings provide for greater inlet capacities compared to conventional kerb inlets. Standard blocks can be used for curve radii of 30 mm or more. ‘Splay’ blocks are available to meet specific requirements with a radius of between 6 m and 30 m.

BenefitsWhen the Beany Block system is utilised no long drainage sections are required to be specified in contractual documents. The system can be substituted for kerbs, stormwater pipework, kerb inlets and parts of footways. Damaged services are less likely to occur when installing the Beany Block due to its simple and practical design and installation.

Some of the traditional problems experienced with conventional drainage that the Beany Block system eliminates include: insufficient fall; conflicting levels of service mains and cables; ponding adjacent to low points; traffic safety and control on existing freeways.

Additional cost savings can be achieved on projects that have wide freeways and footways; freeways that have ‘flat’ longitudinal falls; rock in sub-grade; shallow outfall and existing services or foul drainage at conflicting levels.

ApplicationsThe Beany Block has been designed for use in conjunction with SABS Fig. 3 and Fig.4 Barrier Kerbs. The Beany produces 400 mm length of inlet opening for every 1 m of kerb. The system can be used in any application where high inlet capacity is required; wide freeways; parking areas; taxi ranks and bus depots; wash bays and vehicle service areas; median islands; industrial areas; drainage around buildings and walkways and toll plazas.

Rocla’s Stormwater pipes Effective stormwater management can prevent pollution, flooding, erosion and damage to the environment and infrastructure. Therefore, it makes financial sense for local municipalities to invest in products and technologies to ensure that the quality of infrastructure, be it stability and sustainability of both the built and natural environments is not compromised.

Within its range of products, Rocla – also a member of the ISG Group, manufactures stormwater pipes with both interlocking and spigot and socket joints in a range of strength ratings. The spigot and socket joints utilise the rolling rubber ring principal where no installation lubricant is required. All pipes conform to the SANS 677 standard.

After consultations with Rocla’s technical team, interlocking joint pipes were selected for installation at the Great North Plaza in Limpopo, whilst the Borwa project in Westonaria selected Rocla spigot and socket joint storm water pipes. Technical support from Rocla ensures that correct product and technology is selected with consideration for the financial constraints of each project.

Technicrete is part of the IS Group of companies which includes Ocon Brick and Rocla. ■

Efficient stormwater drainage solutions

The Beany Block is an efficient and practical solution for effective drainage due to its large flow capacity

Rocla's stormwater pipes with both interlocking and spigot and socket joints are available in a range of strength ratings

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A new range of small, mobile crushers and screens is poised to present construction companies with an unprecedented opportunity to explore new ways of processing, especially

in the areas of recycling and waste management.

These EvoQuip crushers and screens will also present a unique hire opportunity for entrepreneurs and plant hire companies where the machine may either become part of an existing fleet or provide owner-operators with an opportunity to undertake smaller-scale crushing and screening operations on customers’ own sites.

Distributed by ELB Equipment, the EvoQuip range is part of the Terex brand and extends from 3- to 19-ton screens, complemented by crushers that range from 3.5- to 29-tons. With the emphasis on mobility the concept is to bring efficient crushing and screening operations to wherever they are needed.

New trendsAccording to Martin Conway, Terex international sales manager for EvoQuip, the company was established, and machines developed within the space of the last decade making them compliant with emerging trends in numerous industries.

“For example, in the existing processing market the trend is for crushing operations to become smaller and operate on a just-in-time (JIT) principal where just enough is produced for immediate needs rather than stockpiling materials for future use. All too often big crushers and screens stand idle waiting for materials with obvious negative cost implications.

“By comparison the small EvoQuip machines are less expensive to buy and to operate making many lower-yield types of operations feasible by considerably bringing down operating costs. That means it can give old operations a new lease of life or may even be feasible to be brought onto quarries to produce saleable products from by-products,” says Conway.

Onsite processingPerhaps the most exciting opportunity, however, is to take processing plants to customers' sites. Whether it be processing of rocks at the site of road construction projects or the processing of demolition waste for reuse.

In addition, the relatively low overall cost of the equipment significantly lowers the entry level into a host of new industries and makes these more feasible for startups to process smaller quantities of materials profitably. Here examples could include waste concrete recycling at precast and readymix concrete yards, processing of illegally dumped building materials on behalf of municipalities and supporting construction operations in remote areas using available resources.

Plant hireConway continues that they are particularly useful in shared-type applications such as with plant-hire companies servicing the construction sector.

“Imagine all the land that is wasted underneath piles of building rubble that can be accessed and opened with this type of machinery. Or the types of building projects that can be undertaken in rural areas where dams, mast-footings, roads and other necessary infrastructure can be accessed by 4x4 trucks or even hitched to an excavator and towed to remote sites where the available natural materials can be used - the possibilities are endless,” adds Conway. He concludes that EvoQuip crushers and screens are designed to be rugged and durable enough for overland transportation and tough remote-site operations. A wide range is available for different applications ranging from soft materials to soils and rubble with special apparatus for the removal of rebar and metals. EvoQuip machines comply with rigorous safety and environmental requirements. ■

Revolutionary new processing equipment for recycling in construction Martin Conway, international sales manager for EvoQuip and Janita Grobbelaar of ELB Equipment

EvoQuip crushers and screens represent and modern evolution of processing equipment

ELB EQUIPMENT - HEAD OFFICE:14 Atlas Road, Anderbolt, Boksburg • Tel: +27 (0)11 306 0700 • Fax: +27(0)918 7208

• e-mail: Elb@elbquip.co.za

BRANCHES & DEALERS – SOUTH AFRICA:BRITS: +27 (0)12 250 1565 • CAPE TOWN: +27 (0)21 933 2383 • DURBAN: +27 (0)31 464 6522

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Machines trusted by those who build roads

MAY 201828

KSB Pumps and Valves has busted the myth that “slurry pumps have short lifespans” with the ongoing success of its Navachab Gold Mine installation in Namibia, where 10 of its LSA slurry pumps have operated for nearly a year

without incident.

This is in stark contrast to the previous pump sets at the mine, which operated a mere 4-6 weeks between breakdowns in the aggressive wear environment of the mine. Resultant stoppages and production losses had resulted in the mine’s management seeking alternative solutions from new suppliers.

KSB Pumps and Valves’ Andreas Gremels says the company was able to convince the mine of LSA technical superiority, and now has backed up the recommendation with actual on-the-job proof. “Our pumps have proven that they can work reliably and efficiently where others simply cannot.”

Technical solutionHe continues that the hard metal design and additional high-pressure gland water system is less prone to component wear. The KSB LSA pumps make use of a unique high-pressure gland water system and gland service package that pressurizes the stuffing-box with non-slurry laden water to prevent particle ingress that can cause wear of components. Hard metal linings and specially designed impellers further contribute to the hard-wearing nature of the pumps, which are also ideal for construction applications.

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Slurry pumps push the boundaries of reliability in construction

The residue pump where KSB proved it is a myth that slurry pumps have short lifespans

du Preez Calitz, projects engineer of QKR Namibia

AK Roux is the projects and asset management manager for QKR Namibia

29MAY 2018

“This just goes to show that specifying the right pump for a technical application, be it in mining or construction, is critical to the success of pumping operations. In the case of the Navachab Gold Mine, the additional performance gains and reliability were complimented by the outstanding work done by owners, QKR Namibia’s technical teams. They designed and managed the installation of the entire project including monitoring systems and worked closely with our technical team to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the pumps and the entire installation,” says Gremels.

QKR Namibia Projects Engineer, du Preez Calitz, confirms the success of the project. “The pumps were selected based on the long term wear simulations done by KSB and full life cycle cost analysis during the tender evaluation process. We have not looked back since then! In fact, an open inspection of the pumps recently revealed a much lower wear rate than initially expected which has resulted in lower operating and maintenance costs as foreseen over the total life-cycle of the pumps. The pumps have certainly met and exceeded our expectations and the solid technical input and support of the company has been superb from the outset.”

All-round solutionEchoing the sentiment, AK Roux, projects and asset management manager for QKR Namibia, adds that the new pump station has now run more than 5 000 hours without a single breakdown. He added that the project team placed specific focus on the evaluation of the full life cycle cost of the operation and maintenance of the pumps during the design of the new pump station and the selection of equipment. This resulted in pump installation which consume 18% less power under similar operation conditions than the previously installation, while the maintenance requirements over the first 5 000 hours of operations was limited to the repacking of the glands and the checking of bearing assembly oil levels.

KSB Pumps and Valves slurry pumps manager, Rob Bond, says the rural nature of this, and other mines in Namibia, makes it imperative that the pumps are manufactured from the highest quality materials and manufactured to the highest international standards. Correct pump selection is important making it essential to work with the best technical teams available, such as those of KSB Pumps and Valves. “The success of our slurry pumps in tough Namibian conditions is important to us as it gives us leverage to introduce our slurry pumps to other mines and construction sites in the region. We are already one of the top suppliers of water pumps in Namibia and the addition of our ultra-reliable slurry pumps enables us to become a multi-faceted solutions provider to the industry in Namibia and elsewhere in southern Africa,” he says. ■

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MAY 201830

Cape Town based MasterFibre, leaders in the manufacture and installation of recycled rubber fibre matting and moulded products made from recycled

tyres, and PFE International have announced a strategic joint venture that will see the two entities combine their manufacturing, marketing and distribution facilities nationally.

Speaking after the signing of a deal that will create MasterFibre South Africa, PFE International CEO, Dr Mehran Zarrebini, explained that all manufacturing of moulded products would now take place at Van Dyck’s factory in Prospecton, Durban.

Raw materials will be supplied by South Africa’s largest truck tyre recycler, Mathe Group. This Hammarsdale operation is part of the multinational group PFE International of which Van Dyck Floors is part.

MasterFibre managing director, Aldo Steyn said that the joint venture – effective from the end of April – would in no way change the existing services offered by MasterFibre. However, the additional manufacturing capacity would enable the company to increase both the number and size of orders.

A civil engineer by training, Steyn added a number of innovative products to MasterFibre’s basic rubber matting offering when he took over the company in 2007. These included rubber safety mats for children’s playgrounds, doormats and rubber mats with customised logos for businesses, specialized mats for horse boxes and equestrian use, ballistic products and tiles for shooting ranges.

Van Dyck Floors manufactures rubber flooring and paving and acoustic cradles and underlays for carpets which are sold locally and exported to 50 countries across the world.

Zarrebini said that, in 2016, Van Dyck had invested in a sample line to manufacture additional products including paving mats and rubber pavers. This had proved successful and the company had invested in two larger machines that could produce 1m x 1m products and interlocking paving mats.

Van Dyck invested in a further two units to produce moulded rubber flooring products measuring 2m x 1m and automated the process last year.

“This investment has given us much more flexibility and increased production capacity substantially. We have also invested in new moulds. Where we could initially produce

bricks, pavers and 1m x 1m interlocking mats, now we have 1 metre honeycomb pavers and we are able to produce kerbs for the 1m x 1m mats. The increased automation will also improve our manufacturing efficiency,” he said.

Steyn said that, with additional access to Van Dyck’s manufacturing, MasterFibre could cut down on lead times on orders significantly.

MasterFibre products have been tested by an independent laboratory and fully comply with all standards set by the South African Bureau of Standards in terms of the stringent South African National Standards (SANS) Regulations for Safety which applies to all playground equipment and surfaces.

Zarrebini said that the new joint venture would enable MasterFibre to tap into Van Dyck’s extensive regional logistics and distribution system with a view to growing its national footprint. It can also access Van Dyck’s extensive network of influential architects, specifiers and contractors.

Already, the re-branded company has set up its first office in KwaZulu-Natal at Van Dyck’s Durban head office. ■

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Van Dyck Floors teams up with MasterFibre SA

Aldo Steyn, MasterFibre MD and Mehran Zarrebini. PFE International CEO are pictured with some of the finished moulded rubber products being marketed by MasterFibre

Aldo Steyn and Mehran Zarrebini pictured with one of the machines in the Durban factory that manufacture MasterFibre moulded rubber products

31MAY 2018

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MBA Western Cape Construction Health & Safety Seminar

20 JuneMBA WC Conference Centre, Belmont Square, Cape Town

WoodEX & The Deck & Flooring Expo

11 - 13 JulyGallagher Convention Centre, Jhb

Concrete Conference 1 - 2 AugustBirchwood Hotel, Boksburg

Interbuild 15 - 18 August Johannesburg

Master Builders SA Congress 2018

9 - 11 September Port Elizabeth

Cape Construction Conference & Expo

September Cape Town

11th Green Building Convention 2018

3 - 5 OctoberCentury City, Cape Town

CIB World Building Congress 18 - 20 June Hong Kong

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MAY 201832

CORPORATE MEMBERS

AFFILIATE MEMBERS

East CapeGreg Steele – Executive DirectorTel: 041 365 1835E-mail: ecmba@global.co.za

BolandDaniël Uys – Executive Director Tel: 021 863 3330E-mail: info@mbaboland.org.za

MASTER BUILDERS SOUTH AFRICA

KwaZulu-NatalVikashnee Harbhajan – Executive DirectorTel: 031 266 7070E-mail: info@masterbuilders.co.za

Greater BolandUrsula Pekeur – SecretaryTel: 023 342 6964E-mail: mbagb@telkomsa.net

Northern CapeChrista du Plooy – SecretaryTel: 053 832 1762E-mail: nc_mba@xsinet.co.za

West BolandPhillip Botha – Executive DirectorTel: 022 772 2251E-mail: mbaweskus@cwmail.co.za

Western CapeAllen Bodill – Executive DirectorTel: 021 685 2625E-mail: info@mbawc.org.za

Free StateFrancois du Plessis – Executive DirectorTel: 057 352 6269E-mail: admin@mbafs.co.za

MBA NorthMohau Mphomela – Executive DirectorTel: 011 805 6611E-mail: info@mbanorth.co.za

Association of Architectural Aluminium Manufacturers of SAJohan J Heyneke – DirectorTel: 011 805 5002E-mail: aaamsa@iafrica.com

SA Reinforced Concrete Engineers’ AssociationJeff Thomas – DirectorTel: 011 455 6321E-mail: sarcea@iafrica.com

SA Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Contractors’ AssociationBarney Richardson – DirectorTel: 011 622 3890E-mail: saracca@icon.co.za

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Recognising the increasing pressure on the built environment from growing populations and development in African countries, global engineering and infrastructure advisory company Aurecon has appointed Kolosa Madikizela as its Unit Leader for the Built Environment in Gauteng.

Madikizela has built her 14-year career in the construction, property development and engineering sectors at organisations such as Bigen Africa, Aveng Group, and Nexus Facilities Management Company, as well as Life Healthcare and Shell South Africa in facilities management. Her most recent role was as the Managing Director at Pragma, an engineering organisation specialising in physical asset management.

“African skylines are going through a period of unprecedented change. Growing populations and digital disruptions are changing how people live, work and play, and I look forward to pursuing ways to grow the Built Environment Unit and take on more work in Africa,” says Madikizela.

Aurecon is working on some of the most significant buildings across the property, health, education, manufacturing and infrastructure sectors in Africa. These include some of the largest and greenest commercial office buildings in South Africa, such as Aurecon’s Tshwane office at the Lynnwood Bridge Office Park, “The Towers” in Cape Town, and Atrium on 5th in Johannesburg.

She serves as an industry expert on the advisory board for the Built Environment at the University of Cape Town’s department of Construction Economics and Management. Previously, Madikizela was an external supervisor to Masters students in the Department of Industrial Engineering at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and a Guest Lecturer at the Department of Construction Management and Quantity Surveying. She served on the industry advisory boards for Industrial Engineering at CPUT and Stellenbosch University.

Aurecon strengthens Gauteng Built Environment team with new Unit leader

Kolosa Madikizela