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ISSN:2307-7328

458239685254

Jan - Feb 2013

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GET NEWS ON CURRENT

DEVELOPMENTS IN

CONSTRUCTION &

ENGINEERING

ON-SITE engineering & construction

CONTENTS

OUR TEAM

Atlas Copco launches the Explorac 100 reverse circulation drilling rig

15

Experiment underway to chart ecosystem restoration in the Coega IDZ

On the News

05

TRAC continues to improve the N4 MaputoCorridor Route

On-Site Essentials

Projects

35

Our Team

Acting Editor

Editorial

Art Design & Production

Deep Graphics Studios

Advertising Sales

Subscriptions

Publisher

CYAPHI PUBLISHERS

Nhlanhla Mpofu- [email protected]

Babongile Nyambose -

[email protected]

Mafumedia - [email protected]

Roland George [email protected]

Witness Khumalo [email protected]

Audrey Sibanda [email protected]

Michelle [email protected]

P O Box 1193 North Riding 2162

Tel: 011)056-5779

Fax: 086 697 5726


Web: www.cyaphi.co.za

Disclaimer: All material is strictly copyright. The magazine

or any part thereof may not be reproduced or adapted

without written permission from the publisher: ON-SITE

engineering &construction magazine welcomes material

submitted for publication but retains the right to edit copy.

The views expressed in the publication are not considered

those of the publisher, which accepts no liability of any

nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of

this magazine. While every effort has been taken in

compiling this publication, the publisher does not give

warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its content.

The publisher and the editor cannot accept responsibility for

any loss inconvenience & damage that may occur there

from.

3

458239685254

Jan - Feb 2013

For Advertising and General EnquiriesCyaphi Publishers

Telephone: (011) 056 - 5779Fax: 086 697 5726

Postal Address:P.O Box 1193North Riding

2162


GET NEWS ON CURRENT

DEVELOPMENTS IN

CONSTRUCTION &

ENGINEERING

ON-SITE engineering & construction

CONTENTS

OUR TEAM

Atlas Copco launches the Explorac 100 reverse circulation drilling rig

15

Experiment underway to chart ecosystem restoration in the Coega IDZ

On the News

05

TRAC continues to improve the N4 MaputoCorridor Route

On-Site Essentials

Projects

35

Our Team

Acting Editor

Editorial

Art Design & Production

Deep Graphics Studios

Advertising Sales

Subscriptions

Publisher

CYAPHI PUBLISHERS

Nhlanhla Mpofu- [email protected]

Babongile Nyambose -

[email protected]

Mafumedia - [email protected]

Roland George [email protected]

Witness Khumalo [email protected]

Audrey Sibanda [email protected]

Michelle [email protected]

P O Box 1193 North Riding 2162

Tel: 011)056-5779

Fax: 086 697 5726


Web: www.cyaphi.co.za

Disclaimer: All material is strictly copyright. The magazine

or any part thereof may not be reproduced or adapted

without written permission from the publisher: ON-SITE

engineering &construction magazine welcomes material

submitted for publication but retains the right to edit copy.

The views expressed in the publication are not considered

those of the publisher, which accepts no liability of any

nature arising out of or in connection with the contents of

this magazine. While every effort has been taken in

compiling this publication, the publisher does not give

warranty as to the completeness or accuracy of its content.

The publisher and the editor cannot accept responsibility for

any loss inconvenience & damage that may occur there

from.

3

NE

WS

HE Coega Development C o r p o r a t i o n ( C D C ) , TUhambiso and WBHO

Construction are launching a p i o n e e r i n g e n v i r o n m e n t a l experiment as a baseline study in the Industrial Development Zone (IDZ). The f irst ever Coega IDZ “ecosynthesis experiment” project started this month on a recently downgraded piece of virgin land adjacent to a site in Zone 2 of the Coega IDZ earmarked for Chinese car and truck manufacturer, First Automotive Works' (FAW) new plant, which WBHO is currently constructing.

The environmental project will run for 12 months, with all costs covered by the Uhambiso/WBHO joint venture (JV). “The area, roughly 500 square meters, will undergo a natural r e s t o r a t i o n p r o c e s s a n d essentially we are allowing for the practice of ecosynthesis principles on this land,” said Johann Brink, C D C s a f e t y, h e a l t h a n d environmental project Manager.

EXPERIMENT UNDERWAY TO CHART ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION IN THE COEGA IDZ

Ecosynthesis is a term used to describe the use of naturally introduced species to fill niches in a disrupted environment, with the aim of increasing the speed of natural ecological restoration.

This method decreases the amount of physical damage to a d i s rup ted and deg raded landscape. Ecosynthesis is also the process of taking topsoil containing the natural seed bank of endemic plant species of the specific area and spreading it over a degraded area – then allowing “mother nature” to take its course. This deviates from the norm of hydro-seeding, or direct human intervention in the rehabilitation process. “Essentially the hydro-seeding is replaced by the natural seed bank contained in the topsoil within that specific area. Thus, the 'import' of topsoil from outside the IDZ is not an option as we want to avoid introducing species not natural to that specif ic environment and

landscape.”“We will measure the rainfall over a 12 month period as well as germination of the natural seed bank – and then the identification of seedlings that have come up. Basically we want to see what mother nature gets up to so we can measure how to manage environmental support in an industrial zone and analyse how, without human intervention, the ecosystem will regenerate itself,” added Brink.

Traditionally industrial areas, and those under construction, are not considered suitable for rehabilitation, for a range of reasons , inc lud ing cos t . However, legislative changes over the past 20 years have paved the way for better environmental rehabilitation methods. “ T h e i m p l i c a t i o n o f n o t rehabilitating around aconstruction footprint is severely detrimental to the natural environment and ecosystems affecting both visual impact and

plant and animal species, which can possibly be lost,” said Arnie van Jaarsveld, site manager for the WBHO Construction of FAW's site. “We are highly interested in this baseline study as it could form the basis of future WBHO e n g a g e m e n t s w i t h t h e environment on construction projects.”Environmental Authorisation for listed activities usually has standard conditions in terms of prescribing rehabilitation in or around the construction footprint. The more recent rehabilitation standards in the construction related environmentadegradation entails hydro-seeding which consists of either a summer or a winter seed mix and adds costs to the construction project.

Brink says ecosynthesis – applied in two areas in the IDZ – has been successful at Coega but was never proper ly moni tored, measured and recorded for future reference and application.

Thus far these two areas, in Zone

NE

WS

ExperimentUnderway to ChartEcosystem Restoration in The Coega Idz

10 (a construction footprint in the sand dune area) and Zone 5 (a historical degraded area of “borrow pits”) have both yielded positive but untested results.

“Both these areas underwent ecosynthesis rehabilitation seven and four years ago respectively which proves that the natural seed bank to that specific area is more resistant to drought and has a low mortality rate despite the lack of rain,” said Brink.

The “experiment“ aims to prove amongst other things that with very little human intervention ecosys tems in o r a round degraded areas can return to their original natural vegetated state and thereby heal the holistic e c o s y s t e m f r o m b e i n g dysfunctional to functional.

“The focus of the ecosynthesis experiment is not on cost saving but rather natural environmental restoration in a holistic manner, restoring the intrinsic value which originally existed in the ecosystem landscape prior to degradation,” added Brink.

As with all experiments, there will be a control in place – in the form of a piece of land where human intervention takes place to rehabilitate the land. On-going updates and results will be released by the CDC over the year-long period.

54

NE

WS

HE Coega Development C o r p o r a t i o n ( C D C ) , TUhambiso and WBHO

Construction are launching a p i o n e e r i n g e n v i r o n m e n t a l experiment as a baseline study in the Industrial Development Zone (IDZ). The f irst ever Coega IDZ “ecosynthesis experiment” project started this month on a recently downgraded piece of virgin land adjacent to a site in Zone 2 of the Coega IDZ earmarked for Chinese car and truck manufacturer, First Automotive Works' (FAW) new plant, which WBHO is currently constructing.

The environmental project will run for 12 months, with all costs covered by the Uhambiso/WBHO joint venture (JV). “The area, roughly 500 square meters, will undergo a natural r e s t o r a t i o n p r o c e s s a n d essentially we are allowing for the practice of ecosynthesis principles on this land,” said Johann Brink, C D C s a f e t y, h e a l t h a n d environmental project Manager.

EXPERIMENT UNDERWAY TO CHART ECOSYSTEM RESTORATION IN THE COEGA IDZ

Ecosynthesis is a term used to describe the use of naturally introduced species to fill niches in a disrupted environment, with the aim of increasing the speed of natural ecological restoration.

This method decreases the amount of physical damage to a d i s rup ted and deg raded landscape. Ecosynthesis is also the process of taking topsoil containing the natural seed bank of endemic plant species of the specific area and spreading it over a degraded area – then allowing “mother nature” to take its course. This deviates from the norm of hydro-seeding, or direct human intervention in the rehabilitation process. “Essentially the hydro-seeding is replaced by the natural seed bank contained in the topsoil within that specific area. Thus, the 'import' of topsoil from outside the IDZ is not an option as we want to avoid introducing species not natural to that specif ic environment and

landscape.”“We will measure the rainfall over a 12 month period as well as germination of the natural seed bank – and then the identification of seedlings that have come up. Basically we want to see what mother nature gets up to so we can measure how to manage environmental support in an industrial zone and analyse how, without human intervention, the ecosystem will regenerate itself,” added Brink.

Traditionally industrial areas, and those under construction, are not considered suitable for rehabilitation, for a range of reasons , inc lud ing cos t . However, legislative changes over the past 20 years have paved the way for better environmental rehabilitation methods. “ T h e i m p l i c a t i o n o f n o t rehabilitating around aconstruction footprint is severely detrimental to the natural environment and ecosystems affecting both visual impact and

plant and animal species, which can possibly be lost,” said Arnie van Jaarsveld, site manager for the WBHO Construction of FAW's site. “We are highly interested in this baseline study as it could form the basis of future WBHO e n g a g e m e n t s w i t h t h e environment on construction projects.”Environmental Authorisation for listed activities usually has standard conditions in terms of prescribing rehabilitation in or around the construction footprint. The more recent rehabilitation standards in the construction related environmentadegradation entails hydro-seeding which consists of either a summer or a winter seed mix and adds costs to the construction project.

Brink says ecosynthesis – applied in two areas in the IDZ – has been successful at Coega but was never proper ly moni tored, measured and recorded for future reference and application.

Thus far these two areas, in Zone

NE

WS

ExperimentUnderway to ChartEcosystem Restoration in The Coega Idz

10 (a construction footprint in the sand dune area) and Zone 5 (a historical degraded area of “borrow pits”) have both yielded positive but untested results.

“Both these areas underwent ecosynthesis rehabilitation seven and four years ago respectively which proves that the natural seed bank to that specific area is more resistant to drought and has a low mortality rate despite the lack of rain,” said Brink.

The “experiment“ aims to prove amongst other things that with very little human intervention ecosys tems in o r a round degraded areas can return to their original natural vegetated state and thereby heal the holistic e c o s y s t e m f r o m b e i n g dysfunctional to functional.

“The focus of the ecosynthesis experiment is not on cost saving but rather natural environmental restoration in a holistic manner, restoring the intrinsic value which originally existed in the ecosystem landscape prior to degradation,” added Brink.

As with all experiments, there will be a control in place – in the form of a piece of land where human intervention takes place to rehabilitate the land. On-going updates and results will be released by the CDC over the year-long period.

54

ground floor of the office block portion this week, with the balance of the building due for hand over on June 21. Once delivered Famous Brands would become the newest operational tenant in the Coega IDZ.

Vilakazi said Famous Brands was a prime example of the short conversion t imes investors experience from the point of signing a lease with the CDC to full operation. “The turnaround times are much quicker now than they were a couple of years ago and we are able to construct buildings for investors relatively quickly, meaning that they move to operational phase within about a year of signing, depending on this size of the project,” said Vilakazi. “This has impl icat ions for investors' bottom dollar as they are able to start production relatively quickly.”

A partnership between Famous Brands and Coega Dairy has also seen the dairy expanding its operations to supply cheese products to the group in a project dubbed 'Coega Cheese' with a joint valued investment of R45-million pouring into the Coega IDZ as a result.

FAWIn addition, says Vilakazi, the construction activity is creating needed jobs on the city, particularly on the FAW site, with t h e R 2 0 0 - m i l l i o n F A W construct ion pro ject wel l underway.

To date about 304 construction jobs have been created on its site, a number that grows week to week. In total the construction phase will see about 2000 jobs generated over the year-long duration. In the operation phase of the truck assembling plant a

further 280 jobs will also be created.

Acco rd i ng t o A rn i e van Jaarsveldt, WBHO Construction Eastern Cape managing director and lead contractor on the FAW project, the highlight of the c ons t r uc t i on w i l l be i t s architectural finesse.

Van Jaarsveldt said Eastern Cape Architects Studio d'Arc wanted to make a statement with the Chinese automotive giants' building in Zone 2 of the IDZ.

“Its prime position on the N2 means it will get heightened attention. FAW management loved Studio d'Arc's unique design on the office and reception area – particularly the exceptional use of concrete, so that's set to be the highlight of the building,” said van Jaarsveldt. “Otherwise, we are working hard

to keep to a strict timetable, and you will see the columns almost completed and some initial top structures going up over the factory portion. With a long way to go, the skeleton is definitely taking shape.”

Van Jaarsveldt said construction is on-track for completion end December 2013, adding that there was significant collaboration between the Chinese engineers a n d t h e i r S o u t h A f r i c a n counterparts – a coup for skills development and mentorship. AGNI STEELSAgni Steels is also wrapping construction of its R400-million steel plant in Zone 6 of the 11500Ha IDZ. Agni Steels will operate in a high-tech smelting facility to produce mild steel billets from scrap metal. The plant at Coega will use 10 000 tons of scrap metal in phase 1 and 20 000 tons in phase 2.

LOCKING DOWN: A worker on site at the FAW plant in Zone 2 of the Coega industrial development zone.

Construction boom at Coega as projects under production amount to

R1.2-billion, over 2500 jobs created

BUILDING projects in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) have injected over R1.2-billion into the Nelson Mandela Bay construction industry over the past two quarters.

Six major construction projects are currently underway in the Coega IDZ including erection of:

?Chinese car and truck

manufacturer First Automobile Works' (FAW) plant;

?Famous Brands' cold

storage plant;

?DCD Group's wind

tower manufacturing plant;

?the addition of Coega

Cheese on to t he Coega Dairy outfit;

?Agni Steels' R400-

million smelter facility; and

?Rehau's extension in

the Nelson Mandela Bay Logistics Park (NMBLP).

Industrial gas company, Air Products South Africa, is also about to begin construction of its R300-million state-of-the-art air separation unit in Zone 3 in July, bringing the total number of projects being built to seven.

“The global economic climate is still not stable, yet investment continues to flow into the Coega IDZ and is literally taking root in the construction projects underway,” said Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega Development Corporation (CDC) h e a d o f m a r k e t i n g a n d communications. “We currently have 20 operational investors, and

COEGA DELIVERING ON JOBS PROMISE AND INVESTMENTS

once these seven construction projects are complete, we will be up to 27 operational investors by mid-2014.”

Vilakazi said the activity meant major spinoffs not only for lead contractors, but also sub-contractors, suppliers and the whole built environment supply chain: “At a time when there is industry malaise at a national level , the Coega IDZ is experiencing a construction boom to the value of R1.2-billion.

“The unaudited results 2012/13 financial year also show that construction jobs in the Coega, IDZ and the NMBLP for April 2012 to March 2013 amount to 1722 and investor jobs created are at about 856 – so just over 2500 jobs created directly through activity in the Coega IDZ,” said Vilakazi, adding that it was through these major investments that the CDC was delivering on its mandate to create jobs.

Famous BrandsThe Famous Brands project is nearest completion and the company was given access to the warehouse portion in the first week of May allowing its service provider to start with racking on the warehouse floor. The warehouse is operational and Famous Brands will move its stock into the cold storage unit on June 10.

“Everything is on track, with timeframes tight but on target to be met. The project is still well within original time, cost and quality parameters set – despite loss of a number of days due to inclement weather, mainly wind and rain,” said Bruno Ponzi, CDC senior project manager for infrastructure development.

The company – which owns the likes of Steers and Debonairs – was also given access to the

SEALING THE DEAL: A worker on site at Chinese car and truck manufacturer First Automobile Works' (FAW) new plant in Zone 2 of the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ).

SOLID FOUNDATIONS: The Famous Brands cold storage unit in Zone 1 of the Coega Industrial Development Zone is almost complete with the company scheduled to take occupation of the building next week.


76

ground floor of the office block portion this week, with the balance of the building due for hand over on June 21. Once delivered Famous Brands would become the newest operational tenant in the Coega IDZ.

Vilakazi said Famous Brands was a prime example of the short conversion t imes investors experience from the point of signing a lease with the CDC to full operation. “The turnaround times are much quicker now than they were a couple of years ago and we are able to construct buildings for investors relatively quickly, meaning that they move to operational phase within about a year of signing, depending on this size of the project,” said Vilakazi. “This has impl icat ions for investors' bottom dollar as they are able to start production relatively quickly.”

A partnership between Famous Brands and Coega Dairy has also seen the dairy expanding its operations to supply cheese products to the group in a project dubbed 'Coega Cheese' with a joint valued investment of R45-million pouring into the Coega IDZ as a result.

FAWIn addition, says Vilakazi, the construction activity is creating needed jobs on the city, particularly on the FAW site, with t h e R 2 0 0 - m i l l i o n F A W construct ion pro ject wel l underway.

To date about 304 construction jobs have been created on its site, a number that grows week to week. In total the construction phase will see about 2000 jobs generated over the year-long duration. In the operation phase of the truck assembling plant a

further 280 jobs will also be created.

Acco rd i ng t o A rn i e van Jaarsveldt, WBHO Construction Eastern Cape managing director and lead contractor on the FAW project, the highlight of the c ons t r uc t i on w i l l be i t s architectural finesse.

Van Jaarsveldt said Eastern Cape Architects Studio d'Arc wanted to make a statement with the Chinese automotive giants' building in Zone 2 of the IDZ.

“Its prime position on the N2 means it will get heightened attention. FAW management loved Studio d'Arc's unique design on the office and reception area – particularly the exceptional use of concrete, so that's set to be the highlight of the building,” said van Jaarsveldt. “Otherwise, we are working hard

to keep to a strict timetable, and you will see the columns almost completed and some initial top structures going up over the factory portion. With a long way to go, the skeleton is definitely taking shape.”

Van Jaarsveldt said construction is on-track for completion end December 2013, adding that there was significant collaboration between the Chinese engineers a n d t h e i r S o u t h A f r i c a n counterparts – a coup for skills development and mentorship. AGNI STEELSAgni Steels is also wrapping construction of its R400-million steel plant in Zone 6 of the 11500Ha IDZ. Agni Steels will operate in a high-tech smelting facility to produce mild steel billets from scrap metal. The plant at Coega will use 10 000 tons of scrap metal in phase 1 and 20 000 tons in phase 2.

LOCKING DOWN: A worker on site at the FAW plant in Zone 2 of the Coega industrial development zone.

Construction boom at Coega as projects under production amount to

R1.2-billion, over 2500 jobs created

BUILDING projects in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ) have injected over R1.2-billion into the Nelson Mandela Bay construction industry over the past two quarters.

Six major construction projects are currently underway in the Coega IDZ including erection of:

?Chinese car and truck

manufacturer First Automobile Works' (FAW) plant;

?Famous Brands' cold

storage plant;

?DCD Group's wind

tower manufacturing plant;

?the addition of Coega

Cheese on to t he Coega Dairy outfit;

?Agni Steels' R400-

million smelter facility; and

?Rehau's extension in

the Nelson Mandela Bay Logistics Park (NMBLP).

Industrial gas company, Air Products South Africa, is also about to begin construction of its R300-million state-of-the-art air separation unit in Zone 3 in July, bringing the total number of projects being built to seven.

“The global economic climate is still not stable, yet investment continues to flow into the Coega IDZ and is literally taking root in the construction projects underway,” said Ayanda Vilakazi, Coega Development Corporation (CDC) h e a d o f m a r k e t i n g a n d communications. “We currently have 20 operational investors, and

COEGA DELIVERING ON JOBS PROMISE AND INVESTMENTS

once these seven construction projects are complete, we will be up to 27 operational investors by mid-2014.”

Vilakazi said the activity meant major spinoffs not only for lead contractors, but also sub-contractors, suppliers and the whole built environment supply chain: “At a time when there is industry malaise at a national level , the Coega IDZ is experiencing a construction boom to the value of R1.2-billion.

“The unaudited results 2012/13 financial year also show that construction jobs in the Coega, IDZ and the NMBLP for April 2012 to March 2013 amount to 1722 and investor jobs created are at about 856 – so just over 2500 jobs created directly through activity in the Coega IDZ,” said Vilakazi, adding that it was through these major investments that the CDC was delivering on its mandate to create jobs.

Famous BrandsThe Famous Brands project is nearest completion and the company was given access to the warehouse portion in the first week of May allowing its service provider to start with racking on the warehouse floor. The warehouse is operational and Famous Brands will move its stock into the cold storage unit on June 10.

“Everything is on track, with timeframes tight but on target to be met. The project is still well within original time, cost and quality parameters set – despite loss of a number of days due to inclement weather, mainly wind and rain,” said Bruno Ponzi, CDC senior project manager for infrastructure development.

The company – which owns the likes of Steers and Debonairs – was also given access to the


SOLID FOUNDATIONS: The Famous Brands cold storage unit in Zone 1 of the Coega Industrial Development Zone is almost complete with the company scheduled to take occupation of the building next week.


76

8 ON-SITE engineering & construction

DCD GROUPDCD Group is also in the early phases of its R300-million wind tower manufacture factory which when completed, is expected to employ 168 workers, and produce between 110 and 120 wind towers annually.

“Coega is boldly delivering on our jobs promise through the attraction of investments,” said Vilakazi. “The construction boom is just a taste of things to come. Never before has it been so important to say: watch this space.”

Coega Concrete Product (Pty) Ltd, Dynamic Commodities (SA), UTI Couriers (SA), Cerebos (SA), MSC, PE Cold Storage (SA), Digistics (SA), Electrawinds, General Motors Part and Accessories Distribution Centre, Cape Concentrates, Universal Wind, Coega Dairy, AP Moeller South Africa, Discovery Holdings Pty Ltd. NMBLP: First tier suppliers: Faurecia (French), Rehau (German), Grupo Antolin (Spain), Benteler (German) and Inergy (French). Logistics: Kuehne and Nagel (Germany)One importer (Hella, Germany) and four SA linked service providers to the automotive sector are also located in the Central Hub of the NMBLP bringing the total tenants to 11 companies.

First Automobile Works (FAW, China), Famous Brands (SA), Coega Cheese (SA), Agni Steels (India), Rehau (Germany) Extension in NMBLP, DCD (SA)

Air Products SAInvestors due to start construction [pending construction company appointments in June]

Investors under construction

Operational

Investors Numbers Comment

AfriSam (SA), AMG (China), Casa Steel (SA)Investors in process of completing an Environmental Impact Assessment

TBA when lease agreements are signed Signed term sheets

Projects in negotiation stage are valued at R8,1-billion and those under feasibility account for R116,3-billion.

Pipeline information

COEGA IN NUMBERS

20

6

1

3

5

INSIDERS VIEW: A snapshot of the inside of the Agni Steels plant in Zone 11 of the Coega Industrial Development Zone.

NE

WS

COROBRIK SPECIFIED FOR MINE HOUSING IN THE NORTHERN CAPE

South Africa has the largest known deposits of manganese ore in the world and is the largest producer of iron ore on the c o n t i n e n t m a k i n g m i n i n g operations in the arid Northern Cape critical to the national economy and the la rgest employers in the region.

Production volumes amongst the two biggest players in the region's mining sector - Assmang and Anglo American – continue to increase at a tremendous speed. To both cater for new employees and respond within the ambit of the revised mining charter published by government in late 2010, both mining giants are in the throes of creating new and upgrading existing- accommodation with a number of housing projects both on the drawing board and under construction.

Gary Westwood, Sales Manager for the Free State and Northern Cape region said that Corobrik took pride in being a part of the progress of a sector that was the

greatest contributor to the country 's gross domest ic product.

For example, Anglo American's Kumba Iron Ore operation, which is located in Sishen near the town of Kathu, is believed to be one of the seven largest open pit mines in the world. It produced 38,9Mtpa in 2011. “Kumba is currently building 60 mine management houses with our Blue Barley Travertine and Roan Travertine face bricks. A contract for the construction of a further 479 50m2 houses has been awarded to Steffanuti Stocks and is scheduled to begin before year end,” he said.

In addition, production at the n e w K o l o m e l a m i n e i n Posmasburg came on stream in May this year (2012) and is expected to add additional production of 13Mtpa. “This Kolomela mine expansion saw Corobrik delivering some two million Corngold Satins for the building of 400 staff houses. This project has been divided into

three projects, namely-P o s t d e n e , A i r f i e l d a n d Boichoko,” he added.

Quoting the revised Mining Charter of 2010, Gary-Westwood pointed out that during the apartheid era, the mining sector was known for the appalling living conditions under which its workers lived, which led to a myriad of social ills including the destruction of the social fabric of communities,- substance abuse, as well as the contraction and spread of diseases.

“Review in 2009, prior to the amendment of the charter, indicated that many mines were making solid efforts to upgrade housing with many moving away from controversial hostel systems to create quality family homes. To build on this, new policy guidelines have since been put in place to ensure that accommodation was not only consistent with international best practices but also to help facilitate home ownership for all

mine employees by 2014. It is a stipulation that home ownership must be both affordable and sustainable,” he said.

He said that, in meeting the objectives of the mining charter, the use of clay brick in housing projects went a long way to provide both affordable and susta inable housing. Very importantly, a clay brick house meets the aspirational-requirements of the prospective homeowners to live in 'proper' houses and all the dignity associated with that. Miners keen to be housed may consider themselves fortunate that South Africa has not compromised and digressed from its well-entrenched masonry tradition and all the associated benefits that clay brick brings to house construction.

“Brick fits all three dimensions of sustainability. At a social level nobody wants the stigma attached to living in a prefabricated box and there is no good reason that they should. Clay brick construction is

NE

WS

9

proven economical as built and its record of performance, its robustness, its durability assures a low lifecycle cost. Add to that, that clay bricks have mineral properties that meet all necessary requirements for Healthy living, that clay bricks release no toxic fumes under both normal and fire conditions to impinge on air quality, that they have natural sound insulation properties to support quiet indoor environments and clay bricks sustainable value emerges in a unique holistic context.”

He added that, in light of the fact that the region bordered the Kalahari desert and had some of the most acute temperature fluctuations in the country, the energy efficiency that resulted from the use of clay brick was particularly important. The real benefits of clay brick construction are to be realised in our long hot summer months when the natural thermal properties of clay brick help attenuate the impact of high outdoor temperatures indoors. “The value of thermal mass the clay brick walls provide, slows the

heat flow to the inside by 6 to 8 hours over the hottest parts of the day, moderating internal conditions and providing target thermal comfort for longer, reducing art i f icial cooling interventions. Miners won't have the problem of overheating inside so widely associated with insulated lightweight walled Alternate Building Technologies such as Light Steel Frame Building. The use of clay brick in this instance well complements the priority being given to the use of solar power in these projects” he added.

Gary Westwood said that one of the most critical housing projects in the Northern Cape – and one of the greatest challenges faced by the mining industry as a whole – was the resettlement of residents to facilitate the expansion of a mine. “Plans are currently being finalised to relocate the entire town of Dingleton situated 12 kilometres south west of Kathu to allow further expansion at the Sishen mine. This will require the building of more than 500

houses as well as schools, police stations and commercial properties.”A s s m a n g o w n s b o t h manganese and iron ore production facilities in the Northern Cape with their Iron Ore mines being located in Kathu and Posmasburg and their Manganese operations in the towns of Hotazel and Black Rock.

“The recent fall in manganese prices has forced them to delay their capital projects in Black Rock and Hotazel. However, we believe these – which include 200 mine houses, a gym, a new g u e s t h o u s e a n d accommodation for 40 students – is expected to go ahead towards the middle of 2013. In Posmasburg, they are currently busy with the construction of some 700 new houses. In Kuruman, 800 houses will be built. The first phase, which comprises 89 units, is expected to start in January 2013. A c o m b i n a t i o n o f N e v a d a Travertine, Nebraska Travertine,

Corngold Satin and Opal Satins has been specified by Assmang for these projects.”

“In Kathu, there are plans to build 700 houses. Group 5 is already busy with the construction of 300 houses using our Sapphire Satin, Nevada Travertine, Montana Travertine, Nebraska Travertine a n d O p a l S a t i n . V H B Developments is also busy with 60 houses which are being built with Sapphire Satin and Corngold Satin. Approximately 200 have already been completed and there are plans to extend the total n u m b e r o f h o u s e s t o approximately 1000!”

He understands that Assmang staff homes would be built by the mine with the intention to sell them onto the workers at subsidised rates. To help facilitate this staff receive a housing allowance of R2500 that can go towards bond repayments whilst they are in Assmang's employ.

ASTERN Cape residents are no strangers to Epotholes – but an

innovative programme by the Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW) is set on making potholes in the province a thing of the past. The Road Enterprise-D e v e l o p m e n t P r o g r a m m e (REDP), launched in March 2010, has been rolling out various roads maintenance projects throughout the Eastern Cape, including everything from large scale reseals and bridge-building to potholes and road failure reliefs.“Soon it will be smooth sailing in the Eastern Cape for motorists and commuters. The Eastern Cape's roads have long needed a t t e n t i o n a n d t h e R E D P strategically aims to facilitate meeting these ends, in the process developing emergent and small construction firms to build roads under mentorship of e s t a b l i s h e d c o n s t r u c t i o n companies and engineers,” said A y a n d a V i l a k a z i , C o e g a Development Corporation (CDC) h e a d o f m a r k e t i n g a n d communications. The CDC is the implementing agent for the programme.

The broader community is also benefiting through better road l inks to health, education, amenities, food supplies and transport routes. In the past year over 25 685.7 cubic meters of potholes have been f ixed throughout the province – either through the process of plugging or base and surface repair. The process of plugging is when a pothole is immediately patched with cold premix. Base and surface repair is when the road layer is removed and a new layer is laid with a new blacktop surface.The areas of concentration have been the Kouga District and the following Eastern Cape roads: R392, R410, R408, R409, R390,

BEATING POTHOLES: HOW THE REDP IS CHANGING EC ROADS ONE POTHOLE AT A TIME

R39, R349, R396; with many more earmarked for repair in the near future.The REDP sees the dual benefit of roads construction in the Eastern Cape and simultaneous training and development of small micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs). The e n t e r p r i s e d e v e l o p m e n t programme targets contractors, material suppliers, quarry o p e r a t o r s , p l a n t h i r e s , consultants and mechanics on road infrastructure construction and maintenance in the region. “ A s i m p l e a p p r o a c h t o maintenance and infrastructure upgrade is seeing the creation of jobs and facilitation of skills development,” added Vilakazi. According to the CDC, 80% of the total roads construction projects have been awarded to small businesses over the past year. A Queenstown engineer working on the REDP, Lacier Wynne, said potholes were a perennial problem throughout the country and that only a complete overhaul of the roads system would address the problem, but added that the REDP initiative was a step in the right direction as an immediate solution. Participants on the project include engineers, contractors, grasscutters, flag bearers and safety officers.Wynne, who is contracted by M a r k M u c k l e P R Te c h Engineering, says roads are made up of various layers which can be damaged by water and general wear-and-tear causing potholes. “Cracks on the roads appear first and water seeps into the cracks and into the base characteristics of the materials used. These materials then have insufficient strength, and become weak under the wheels of heavy trucks – and that's where you get your potholes, which are quite easily formed.”

HOLE GONE: Workers on the Department of Roads and Public Works' Roads Enterprise Development Programme ensure that the Eastern Cape potholes are plugged or in some cases stripped and completely replaced and relayered.

1110

proven economical as built and its record of performance, its robustness, its durability assures a low lifecycle cost. Add to that, that clay bricks have mineral properties that meet all necessary requirements for Healthy living, that clay bricks release no toxic fumes under both normal and fire conditions to impinge on air quality, that they have natural sound insulation properties to support quiet indoor environments and clay bricks sustainable value emerges in a unique holistic context.”

He added that, in light of the fact that the region bordered the Kalahari desert and had some of the most acute temperature fluctuations in the country, the energy efficiency that resulted from the use of clay brick was particularly important. The real benefits of clay brick construction are to be realised in our long hot summer months when the natural thermal properties of clay brick help attenuate the impact of high outdoor temperatures indoors. “The value of thermal mass the clay brick walls provide, slows the

heat flow to the inside by 6 to 8 hours over the hottest parts of the day, moderating internal conditions and providing target thermal comfort for longer, reducing art i f icial cooling interventions. Miners won't have the problem of overheating inside so widely associated with insulated lightweight walled Alternate Building Technologies such as Light Steel Frame Building. The use of clay brick in this instance well complements the priority being given to the use of solar power in these projects” he added.

Gary Westwood said that one of the most critical housing projects in the Northern Cape – and one of the greatest challenges faced by the mining industry as a whole – was the resettlement of residents to facilitate the expansion of a mine. “Plans are currently being finalised to relocate the entire town of Dingleton situated 12 kilometres south west of Kathu to allow further expansion at the Sishen mine. This will require the building of more than 500

houses as well as schools, police stations and commercial properties.”A s s m a n g o w n s b o t h manganese and iron ore production facilities in the Northern Cape with their Iron Ore mines being located in Kathu and Posmasburg and their Manganese operations in the towns of Hotazel and Black Rock.

“The recent fall in manganese prices has forced them to delay their capital projects in Black Rock and Hotazel. However, we believe these – which include 200 mine houses, a gym, a new g u e s t h o u s e a n d accommodation for 40 students – is expected to go ahead towards the middle of 2013. In Posmasburg, they are currently busy with the construction of some 700 new houses. In Kuruman, 800 houses will be built. The first phase, which comprises 89 units, is expected to start in January 2013. A c o m b i n a t i o n o f N e v a d a Travertine, Nebraska Travertine,

Corngold Satin and Opal Satins has been specified by Assmang for these projects.”

“In Kathu, there are plans to build 700 houses. Group 5 is already busy with the construction of 300 houses using our Sapphire Satin, Nevada Travertine, Montana Travertine, Nebraska Travertine a n d O p a l S a t i n . V H B Developments is also busy with 60 houses which are being built with Sapphire Satin and Corngold Satin. Approximately 200 have already been completed and there are plans to extend the total n u m b e r o f h o u s e s t o approximately 1000!”

He understands that Assmang staff homes would be built by the mine with the intention to sell them onto the workers at subsidised rates. To help facilitate this staff receive a housing allowance of R2500 that can go towards bond repayments whilst they are in Assmang's employ.

ASTERN Cape residents are no strangers to Epotholes – but an

innovative programme by the Department of Roads and Public Works (DRPW) is set on making potholes in the province a thing of the past. The Road Enterprise-D e v e l o p m e n t P r o g r a m m e (REDP), launched in March 2010, has been rolling out various roads maintenance projects throughout the Eastern Cape, including everything from large scale reseals and bridge-building to potholes and road failure reliefs.“Soon it will be smooth sailing in the Eastern Cape for motorists and commuters. The Eastern Cape's roads have long needed a t t e n t i o n a n d t h e R E D P strategically aims to facilitate meeting these ends, in the process developing emergent and small construction firms to build roads under mentorship of e s t a b l i s h e d c o n s t r u c t i o n companies and engineers,” said A y a n d a V i l a k a z i , C o e g a Development Corporation (CDC) h e a d o f m a r k e t i n g a n d communications. The CDC is the implementing agent for the programme.

The broader community is also benefiting through better road l inks to health, education, amenities, food supplies and transport routes. In the past year over 25 685.7 cubic meters of potholes have been f ixed throughout the province – either through the process of plugging or base and surface repair. The process of plugging is when a pothole is immediately patched with cold premix. Base and surface repair is when the road layer is removed and a new layer is laid with a new blacktop surface.The areas of concentration have been the Kouga District and the following Eastern Cape roads: R392, R410, R408, R409, R390,

BEATING POTHOLES: HOW THE REDP IS CHANGING EC ROADS ONE POTHOLE AT A TIME

R39, R349, R396; with many more earmarked for repair in the near future.The REDP sees the dual benefit of roads construction in the Eastern Cape and simultaneous training and development of small micro and medium enterprises (SMMEs). The e n t e r p r i s e d e v e l o p m e n t programme targets contractors, material suppliers, quarry o p e r a t o r s , p l a n t h i r e s , consultants and mechanics on road infrastructure construction and maintenance in the region. “ A s i m p l e a p p r o a c h t o maintenance and infrastructure upgrade is seeing the creation of jobs and facilitation of skills development,” added Vilakazi. According to the CDC, 80% of the total roads construction projects have been awarded to small businesses over the past year. A Queenstown engineer working on the REDP, Lacier Wynne, said potholes were a perennial problem throughout the country and that only a complete overhaul of the roads system would address the problem, but added that the REDP initiative was a step in the right direction as an immediate solution. Participants on the project include engineers, contractors, grasscutters, flag bearers and safety officers.Wynne, who is contracted by M a r k M u c k l e P R Te c h Engineering, says roads are made up of various layers which can be damaged by water and general wear-and-tear causing potholes. “Cracks on the roads appear first and water seeps into the cracks and into the base characteristics of the materials used. These materials then have insufficient strength, and become weak under the wheels of heavy trucks – and that's where you get your potholes, which are quite easily formed.”


1110

The alternative to black tar roads are concrete roads which are more expensive to lay, but last much longer before they require repair. “However, due to high costs, the black tarred roads are used in local communities and on all national roads,” said Wynne. The REDP engineers and construction workers repair potholes throughout the Eastern Cape and in the process document the sites of repair to ensure they are monitored. “When potholes are repaired, the date and time is recorded next to the pothole in visible road markings,” said Vilakazi. “We are essentially data-basing the state of the roads – but this process is not without its challenges. The reality is that while the repair jobs are well done, it is not long before a new pothole appears directly next to the very area that had been repaired. In time the capacitated SMMEs will be used for a complete overhaul of the Eastern Cape roads network, but for now this approach is the immediate solution.”The CDC believes in the power of the programme. “The REDP is an incredibly powerful, high-impact project which needs to be recognised as a pioneering initiative on behalf of government to deliver significant and life-changing infrastructure to the people of the Eastern Cape and South Africa,” said Vilakazi. “The reality is that the Eastern Cape has many arterial routes which are used by heavy vehicles like trucks and the REDP is moving to mitigate immediate problems while creating a long-term solution in the form of enterprises which are empowered to provide the critical infrastructure needed in the province. This approach ensures delivery and high impact skills development.”The REDP in numbers 2012/13:

?Base and Surface Repair: 25 458m3 ?Plugging: 227.7m3

?Lane Marking: 850kms


s

Local cement manufacturermaintain that importers are bringing sub-standard and

underweight bags of cement into SA; however, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications' investigations into the quality of imported cement has revealed that the incidence of non-compliance is too low to be of concern

.A sample from an undisclosed manufacturer has been sent to the lab when its plant was found to be in breach of the standards.

Though local companies are constantly appealing the regulator to investigate non-compliance with SA quality standards, the regulator believes the accusations are unfounded. It says the incidence of non-compliance of imported cement is between 7 p e r c e n t a n d 8 p e r c e n t . Underweight bags seem to be a bigger problem compared with the general failure rate of between 11 percent and 31 percent for all prepackaged products in SA though local producers remain adamant that standards are being breached

. PPC's chief executive Ketso Gordhan says his firm has conducted its own tests and collected evidence of wrong-doing, which it will present to the regulator and also intends to file an antidumping charge against importers

.

The company has conducted

random test on imported cement

and a significant percentage of

what it has tested is of inferior

qua l i t y, o r t he bags a re

underweight, says Gordhan.

Lafarge SA has also indicated that

it would consider approaching the

International Trade Administration

Commission of SA (Itac) to protect

the local market from cheap

“IS SA SELLING SUB-STANDARD CEMENT,” SAY’S MANUFACTURERS …

imports

.

Cement from countries like

Vietnam and Pakistan gained

about 6 percent of SA's market

by the end of last year, giving

established producers such as

PPC and Lafarge something to

worry about in an environment of

already low demand

.

Imports mostly affect KwaZulu

Natal because the biggest

volume comes through Durban

hence Port Elizabeth and Cape

Town also receive smal l

amounts of imported cement,

but not enough to affect sales in

those regions.

.

Though complaints from local

manufacturers have increased

s u b s t a n t i a l l y , t h e r e i s

speculation that they are driven

by the threat that imports will

expose the market dominance of

local players.

.

In the lead-up to the 2010 soccer

World Cup, when cement

d e m a n d s o a r e d , l o c a l

manufacturers imported cement

from the same manufacturers

they now accuse of flouting local

standards.

Legal metrology is one of the two

divisions of the regulator that

conduct cement inspections.

The chemicals, mechanical and

materials division (CMM) is the

o ther ; i t conduc ted 157

inspections between August and

December 2012. These include

proactive investigations by the

division, as well as those

Imports

Cement inspections

initiated when a complaint is

filed.

CMM acting inspection manager

Rhoda Mbukwane says about

five cases of non-compliance

were uncovered. These are

under further investigation.

In one case, a complaint was

lodged about the quality of two

brands of cement imported from

Vietnam. The case is awaiting a

final test report, but the cement

was confiscated based on

evidence of a breach.

The CMM also uncovered a case

of non-compliant cement that

entered SA through Port

Elizabeth. Mbukwane says they

are awaiting final test results.

One batch of cement imported

from India was found to be

underweight, and Marneweck

says the importer was prevented

from selling the batch until the

bags were refilled and retested.

Another batch from Pakistan

was treated similarly therefore, it

has also worked with the SA

Revenue Service to strengthen

its enforcement at the Durban

port.

Desp i t e t he conce rn o f

established firms, newcomer

Sephaku Cement, which will

begin producing at the end of this

year, is less pessimistic. Chief

executive Pieter Fourie believes

the inland region, where

Sephaku's first plant is being

built, offers good competition.

Sephaku won't be as exposed to

imports as other manufacturers,

he says.

He says imports are not

sustainable in the long-term.

Exchange rates and shipping

costs (which are currently low) are

volatile. In addition, domestic

demand in or near the country of

origin will determine the future

availability of imports.

NE

WS

NE

WS

4 ON-SITE engineering & construction 1312

The alternative to black tar roads are concrete roads which are more expensive to lay, but last much longer before they require repair. “However, due to high costs, the black tarred roads are used in local communities and on all national roads,” said Wynne. The REDP engineers and construction workers repair potholes throughout the Eastern Cape and in the process document the sites of repair to ensure they are monitored. “When potholes are repaired, the date and time is recorded next to the pothole in visible road markings,” said Vilakazi. “We are essentially data-basing the state of the roads – but this process is not without its challenges. The reality is that while the repair jobs are well done, it is not long before a new pothole appears directly next to the very area that had been repaired. In time the capacitated SMMEs will be used for a complete overhaul of the Eastern Cape roads network, but for now this approach is the immediate solution.”The CDC believes in the power of the programme. “The REDP is an incredibly powerful, high-impact project which needs to be recognised as a pioneering initiative on behalf of government to deliver significant and life-changing infrastructure to the people of the Eastern Cape and South Africa,” said Vilakazi. “The reality is that the Eastern Cape has many arterial routes which are used by heavy vehicles like trucks and the REDP is moving to mitigate immediate problems while creating a long-term solution in the form of enterprises which are empowered to provide the critical infrastructure needed in the province. This approach ensures delivery and high impact skills development.”The REDP in numbers 2012/13:

?Base and Surface Repair: 25 458m3 ?Plugging: 227.7m3

?Lane Marking: 850kms


s

Local cement manufacturermaintain that importers are bringing sub-standard and

underweight bags of cement into SA; however, the National Regulator for Compulsory Specifications' investigations into the quality of imported cement has revealed that the incidence of non-compliance is too low to be of concern

.A sample from an undisclosed manufacturer has been sent to the lab when its plant was found to be in breach of the standards.

Though local companies are constantly appealing the regulator to investigate non-compliance with SA quality standards, the regulator believes the accusations are unfounded. It says the incidence of non-compliance of imported cement is between 7 p e r c e n t a n d 8 p e r c e n t . Underweight bags seem to be a bigger problem compared with the general failure rate of between 11 percent and 31 percent for all prepackaged products in SA though local producers remain adamant that standards are being breached

. PPC's chief executive Ketso Gordhan says his firm has conducted its own tests and collected evidence of wrong-doing, which it will present to the regulator and also intends to file an antidumping charge against importers

.

The company has conducted

random test on imported cement

and a significant percentage of

what it has tested is of inferior

qua l i t y, o r t he bags a re

underweight, says Gordhan.

Lafarge SA has also indicated that

it would consider approaching the

International Trade Administration

Commission of SA (Itac) to protect

the local market from cheap

“IS SA SELLING SUB-STANDARD CEMENT,” SAY’S MANUFACTURERS …

imports

.

Cement from countries like

Vietnam and Pakistan gained

about 6 percent of SA's market

by the end of last year, giving

established producers such as

PPC and Lafarge something to

worry about in an environment of

already low demand

.

Imports mostly affect KwaZulu

Natal because the biggest

volume comes through Durban

hence Port Elizabeth and Cape

Town also receive smal l

amounts of imported cement,

but not enough to affect sales in

those regions.

.

Though complaints from local

manufacturers have increased

s u b s t a n t i a l l y , t h e r e i s

speculation that they are driven

by the threat that imports will

expose the market dominance of

local players.

.

In the lead-up to the 2010 soccer

World Cup, when cement

d e m a n d s o a r e d , l o c a l

manufacturers imported cement

from the same manufacturers

they now accuse of flouting local

standards.

Legal metrology is one of the two

divisions of the regulator that

conduct cement inspections.

The chemicals, mechanical and

materials division (CMM) is the

o ther ; i t conduc ted 157

inspections between August and

December 2012. These include

proactive investigations by the

division, as well as those

Imports

Cement inspections

initiated when a complaint is

filed.

CMM acting inspection manager

Rhoda Mbukwane says about

five cases of non-compliance

were uncovered. These are

under further investigation.

In one case, a complaint was

lodged about the quality of two

brands of cement imported from

Vietnam. The case is awaiting a

final test report, but the cement

was confiscated based on

evidence of a breach.

The CMM also uncovered a case

of non-compliant cement that

entered SA through Port

Elizabeth. Mbukwane says they

are awaiting final test results.

One batch of cement imported

from India was found to be

underweight, and Marneweck

says the importer was prevented

from selling the batch until the

bags were refilled and retested.

Another batch from Pakistan

was treated similarly therefore, it

has also worked with the SA

Revenue Service to strengthen

its enforcement at the Durban

port.

Desp i t e t he conce rn o f

established firms, newcomer

Sephaku Cement, which will

begin producing at the end of this

year, is less pessimistic. Chief

executive Pieter Fourie believes

the inland region, where

Sephaku's first plant is being

built, offers good competition.

Sephaku won't be as exposed to

imports as other manufacturers,

he says.

He says imports are not

sustainable in the long-term.

Exchange rates and shipping

costs (which are currently low) are

volatile. In addition, domestic

demand in or near the country of

origin will determine the future

availability of imports.

NE

WS

NE

WS


The Counci l for the Bui l t

environment (CBE) an entity of the

Department of Public Works held

its Built Indaba 2013 at Birchwood

Hotel, Boksburg, Johannesburg,

under the theme: “The Role of built

environment professionals in the

infrastructure delivery within the

African continent”.

CBE oversees six professional

councils in the country including

the architecture, engineering,

landscape architecture, project

and construction management,

property evaluation and quantity

surveying.

In his address to the members of

CBE professional members

represented, delegates who

included representatives from

African countries such as Zambia,

Ghana, Uganda, Kenya etc., on

infrastructure development, the

Minister of Public Works, Minister

Thulas Nxesi, highlighted CBE's

c o n t r i b u t i o n t o w a r d s t h e

development of inter-regional

understanding, networking and

integration with the continent. He

f u r t h e r h i g h l i g h t e d t h e

government's infrastructure

development plans, and there are

18 Strategic Infrastructure

Projects (SIPS) some of which

a r e s e t t o r e a c h o u r

neighbouring countries, for

instance SIP 1 deals centered on

unlocking the north mineral belt.

The Minister also touched on the

National Development Plan-

g o v e r n m e n t ' s l o n g - t e r m

strategic vision that is set

p r o m o t e g r e a t e r t r a d e

integration throughout South

Africa; and mentioned the

Programme for Infrastructure

Development in Africa (PIDA)

being driven by the African

Union, and the Presidential

In f rast ructure Champions

Initiative as some of the

programmes that will spearhead

growth in Africa. It was further

stated that reliance on the west

is not an option and Africans

should be the drivers of their own

destiny. Following is part of the

Minister of Public Works, Thulas

Nxesi's speech on the role of the

built environment professionals.

The Role of built environment

professionals

Turning to the theme of this

Indaba- the role of buil t

environment professionals-

there are so many areas- in the

construction-that require that we

cooperate so that we move

forward together.

CBE and the professional

councils have an important role

to play in this- and as the

government we must be

respective to your needs and

ideas so that we create an

enabl ing environment for

development and growth to take

p lace. Bu i l t env i ronment

professionals in the continent

w i l l b e k e y i n d r i v i n g

in f ras t ruc ture investment

th rough the i r sk i l l s and

competence in planning, design,

procurement, construction,

m a i n t e n a n c e a n d

d e c o m m i s s i o n i n g o f

infrastructure.

South Africa has 56 075

registered professionals and

candidates across the 6

professions and a significant

unregistered component. This

provides a critical resource and a

base to help drive continental

infrastructure development.

There is a deeper dimension to

the built environment and its

relation to development. The

built environment we create

must reflect the cultural,

psychological and spiritual

aspirations of our people and

address their higher order needs

o f s e l f – a c t u a l i s a t i o n ,

psychological wellness and

spiritual meaning. Our built

environment professionals must

embedded in the African context

to design and build spaces and

objects that reverberate with our

cultural and spiritual ethos.

It cannot be enough to just

transplant technical solutions

that are devoid of meaning and

cultural context. Furthermore,

the design of infrastructure

needs to be not only fit for

purpose, but also it must

contr ibute to sustainable

development. The design needs

to take account of the anticipated

results of climate change,

including increased incidence and

severity of storms, f loods,

droughts, sea level rise, as well as

impacts on structures over their

life cycle- all of which effects

sustainability and the quality of

life.

We have seen that the services of

South African built environment

professionals are in high demand

for infrastructure projects across

the continent. One of our aims

must be to support and promote

contracting and built environment

professional skills and services

across the continent.

These efforts must also include

measures to streamline and align

the qualification requirements of

the built environment professions

across the continent so as to

facilitate an easier exchange of

built environment professional

services. For example, quantity

surveyors or engineer who may

have qualified in Ghana or Zambia

must be able to work on a big

infrastructure projects in South

Africa or Kenya- without having to

go through too much red tape to

obtain permits.

In his closing remarks the, Minister

of Public Works, said the Indaba

provides an opportunity to

strengthen and deepen the

understanding and involvement of

A f r i can bu i l t env i ronment

professions and is looking forward

to receiving recommendations on

potential areas of collaboration for

the purposes of improving the

continent.

THE ROLE OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT IN THE

INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY WITHIN THE

AFRICAN CONTINENT

Minister of Public

Works,Thulas Nxesi

SAFCEC URGES INDUSTRY TO ADOPT A BALANCED APPROACH TO CONSTRUCTION SECTOR FATALITIES

JOHANNESBURG – The South

African Federation of Civil

E n g i n e e r i n g C o n t r a c t o r s

(SAFCEC) appeals to-

Government, Unions, members of

the media and industry players, to

develop a fair, objective approach

when evaluating and analysing

safety statistics in the construction

industry.

SAFCEC and i ts member

organisations wish to express its

d e d i c a t e d s u p p o r t t o a n

uncompromised commitment to

s a f e t y e x c e l l e n c e i n t h e

construction sector and a zero

tolerance approach to any injuries

on site.

SAFCEC would like to express its

concern with recent media

exposure and public debates

providing a one-sided, unfair

portrayal of the industry's safety

performance and achievements.

“Although we acknowledge the

critical need for a continuous and

persistent improvement in the

industry's overall safety record –

staying true to our commitment of

Zero Harm – SAFCEC would like

to emphasise the good work and

improvements that have been

achieved by the industry to

date,” comments James Flint,

national SHERQ advisor for

SAFCEC.

When analysing construction

related accidents and incidents

one should bear in mind that the

term “construction”-

encompasses both the building

construction sector and the civil

engineering construction sector.

To this end, SAFCEC is proud of

the emphasis p laced on

continuous improvement made

within the civil engineering

sector to ensure Health and

Safety is paramount in its

o p e r a t i o n s . S A F C E C

continuously assists and guides

its members in complying with

legislation and good practice.

The Federated Employer's

Mutual Assurance Company

(FEM) statistics indicate a

drastic reduction in fatalities

within the civil construction

sector in the last ten years. It is

worth noting that in 2008 with 23

603 employees, the Industry

Accident Frequency Rate (IAFR)

stood at 5.29. This has

continuously declined and this

year with 24 410 workers

employed by the industry, the

IAFR stands at 2.81.

In the past, SAFCEC has, in

partnership with FEM, made

great strides in addressing the

issues related to occupational

health and safety in the civil

engineering industry. SAFCEC

has also committed to support

various Industry launched

initiatives such as Buildsafe

South Africa, which is an industry

lead initiative to try and improve

health and safety within the

sector. Furthermore SAFCEC

has represented its members in

the development, signing and

commitment to the Construction

Sector health and safety Accord.

This Accord is the proof of

SAFCEC's commitment to

addressing health and safety

within its sector in the context of

a tripartite collaboration between

Organised Business, Organised

Labour and Government.

To this avail, SAFCEC has a

fully-fledged Safety, Health,

Environmental, Risk and Quality

depar tment , s ta f fed wi th

qualified SHERQ professionals

as part of its structure. Amongst

other activities, the national

SHERQ depar tmen t and

regional branches present or

faci l i tate regular t ra in ing

sessions and workshops to

improve skills, awareness and

understanding.

“Our members ' levels of

compliance are monitored by

means of inspections and audits.

Our member companies are

actively involved in these

a c t i v i t i e s b y m e a n s o f

established Health and Safety and

Human Resources committees,”

states Flint.

T h e s o - c a l l e d “ b i g f i v e ”

contractors, as it is often referred

to in mainstream publications,

being Murray & Roberts, Group 5,

WBHO, Aveng and Steffanuti

Stocks – adhere to effective, high

quality safety procedures and

m e a s u r e s , a l i g n e d w i t h

Internat ional Standards of

certification and far exceed the

requirements as set out in

legislation.

SAFCEC would like to emphasise

that it has a mutually beneficial

relationship with the Department

o f Labour, wh ich we are

maintaining in the interests of

occupational health and safety.

On 24 August 2012 SAFCEC

signed the Construction Health

and Safety Accord – an agreement

between Government, Organised

Labour and Organised Business

to improve the s ta tus o f

occupational health and safety in

the construction sector. The

agreement is proof of the value

SAFCEC attaches to collective

partnerships to reach a mutually

desired outcome – Zero Harm in

the construction sector.

As an organisation, SAFCEC is

also heartened by the growing

relationship with key stakeholders

such as the major Unions and

other employer's organisations.

“We believe that we are striving for

a common objective and that with

mutual he lp, suppor t and

understanding, outstanding levels

of occupational health and safety

can be reached in the South

African construction industry,”

Flint concludes.

6 ON-SITE engineering & constructionNE

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The Counci l for the Bui l t

environment (CBE) an entity of the

Department of Public Works held

its Built Indaba 2013 at Birchwood

Hotel, Boksburg, Johannesburg,

under the theme: “The Role of built

environment professionals in the

infrastructure delivery within the

African continent”.

CBE oversees six professional

councils in the country including

the architecture, engineering,

landscape architecture, project

and construction management,

property evaluation and quantity

surveying.

In his address to the members of

CBE professional members

represented, delegates who

included representatives from

African countries such as Zambia,

Ghana, Uganda, Kenya etc., on

infrastructure development, the

Minister of Public Works, Minister

Thulas Nxesi, highlighted CBE's

c o n t r i b u t i o n t o w a r d s t h e

development of inter-regional

understanding, networking and

integration with the continent. He

f u r t h e r h i g h l i g h t e d t h e

government's infrastructure

development plans, and there are

18 Strategic Infrastructure

Projects (SIPS) some of which

a r e s e t t o r e a c h o u r

neighbouring countries, for

instance SIP 1 deals centered on

unlocking the north mineral belt.

The Minister also touched on the

National Development Plan-

g o v e r n m e n t ' s l o n g - t e r m

strategic vision that is set

p r o m o t e g r e a t e r t r a d e

integration throughout South

Africa; and mentioned the

Programme for Infrastructure

Development in Africa (PIDA)

being driven by the African

Union, and the Presidential

In f rast ructure Champions

Initiative as some of the

programmes that will spearhead

growth in Africa. It was further

stated that reliance on the west

is not an option and Africans

should be the drivers of their own

destiny. Following is part of the

Minister of Public Works, Thulas

Nxesi's speech on the role of the

built environment professionals.

The Role of built environment

professionals

Turning to the theme of this

Indaba- the role of buil t

environment professionals-

there are so many areas- in the

construction-that require that we

cooperate so that we move

forward together.

CBE and the professional

councils have an important role

to play in this- and as the

government we must be

respective to your needs and

ideas so that we create an

enabl ing environment for

development and growth to take

p lace. Bu i l t env i ronment

professionals in the continent

w i l l b e k e y i n d r i v i n g

in f ras t ruc ture investment

th rough the i r sk i l l s and

competence in planning, design,

procurement, construction,

m a i n t e n a n c e a n d

d e c o m m i s s i o n i n g o f

infrastructure.

South Africa has 56 075

registered professionals and

candidates across the 6

professions and a significant

unregistered component. This

provides a critical resource and a

base to help drive continental

infrastructure development.

There is a deeper dimension to

the built environment and its

relation to development. The

built environment we create

must reflect the cultural,

psychological and spiritual

aspirations of our people and

address their higher order needs

o f s e l f – a c t u a l i s a t i o n ,

psychological wellness and

spiritual meaning. Our built

environment professionals must

embedded in the African context

to design and build spaces and

objects that reverberate with our

cultural and spiritual ethos.

It cannot be enough to just

transplant technical solutions

that are devoid of meaning and

cultural context. Furthermore,

the design of infrastructure

needs to be not only fit for

purpose, but also it must

contr ibute to sustainable

development. The design needs

to take account of the anticipated

results of climate change,

including increased incidence and

severity of storms, f loods,

droughts, sea level rise, as well as

impacts on structures over their

life cycle- all of which effects

sustainability and the quality of

life.

We have seen that the services of

South African built environment

professionals are in high demand

for infrastructure projects across

the continent. One of our aims

must be to support and promote

contracting and built environment

professional skills and services

across the continent.

These efforts must also include

measures to streamline and align

the qualification requirements of

the built environment professions

across the continent so as to

facilitate an easier exchange of

built environment professional

services. For example, quantity

surveyors or engineer who may

have qualified in Ghana or Zambia

must be able to work on a big

infrastructure projects in South

Africa or Kenya- without having to

go through too much red tape to

obtain permits.

In his closing remarks the, Minister

of Public Works, said the Indaba

provides an opportunity to

strengthen and deepen the

understanding and involvement of

A f r i can bu i l t env i ronment

professions and is looking forward

to receiving recommendations on

potential areas of collaboration for

the purposes of improving the

continent.

THE ROLE OF BUILT ENVIRONMENT IN THE

INFRASTRUCTURE DELIVERY WITHIN THE

AFRICAN CONTINENT

Minister of Public

Works,Thulas Nxesi

SAFCEC URGES INDUSTRY TO ADOPT A BALANCED APPROACH TO CONSTRUCTION SECTOR FATALITIES

JOHANNESBURG – The South

African Federation of Civil

E n g i n e e r i n g C o n t r a c t o r s

(SAFCEC) appeals to-

Government, Unions, members of

the media and industry players, to

develop a fair, objective approach

when evaluating and analysing

safety statistics in the construction

industry.

SAFCEC and i ts member

organisations wish to express its

d e d i c a t e d s u p p o r t t o a n

uncompromised commitment to

s a f e t y e x c e l l e n c e i n t h e

construction sector and a zero

tolerance approach to any injuries

on site.

SAFCEC would like to express its

concern with recent media

exposure and public debates

providing a one-sided, unfair

portrayal of the industry's safety

performance and achievements.

“Although we acknowledge the

critical need for a continuous and

persistent improvement in the

industry's overall safety record –

staying true to our commitment of

Zero Harm – SAFCEC would like

to emphasise the good work and

improvements that have been

achieved by the industry to

date,” comments James Flint,

national SHERQ advisor for

SAFCEC.

When analysing construction

related accidents and incidents

one should bear in mind that the

term “construction”-

encompasses both the building

construction sector and the civil

engineering construction sector.

To this end, SAFCEC is proud of

the emphasis p laced on

continuous improvement made

within the civil engineering

sector to ensure Health and

Safety is paramount in its

o p e r a t i o n s . S A F C E C

continuously assists and guides

its members in complying with

legislation and good practice.

The Federated Employer's

Mutual Assurance Company

(FEM) statistics indicate a

drastic reduction in fatalities

within the civil construction

sector in the last ten years. It is

worth noting that in 2008 with 23

603 employees, the Industry

Accident Frequency Rate (IAFR)

stood at 5.29. This has

continuously declined and this

year with 24 410 workers

employed by the industry, the

IAFR stands at 2.81.

In the past, SAFCEC has, in

partnership with FEM, made

great strides in addressing the

issues related to occupational

health and safety in the civil

engineering industry. SAFCEC

has also committed to support

various Industry launched

initiatives such as Buildsafe

South Africa, which is an industry

lead initiative to try and improve

health and safety within the

sector. Furthermore SAFCEC

has represented its members in

the development, signing and

commitment to the Construction

Sector health and safety Accord.

This Accord is the proof of

SAFCEC's commitment to

addressing health and safety

within its sector in the context of

a tripartite collaboration between

Organised Business, Organised

Labour and Government.

To this avail, SAFCEC has a

fully-fledged Safety, Health,

Environmental, Risk and Quality

depar tment , s ta f fed wi th

qualified SHERQ professionals

as part of its structure. Amongst

other activities, the national

SHERQ depar tmen t and

regional branches present or

faci l i tate regular t ra in ing

sessions and workshops to

improve skills, awareness and

understanding.

“Our members ' levels of

compliance are monitored by

means of inspections and audits.

Our member companies are

actively involved in these

a c t i v i t i e s b y m e a n s o f

established Health and Safety and

Human Resources committees,”

states Flint.

T h e s o - c a l l e d “ b i g f i v e ”

contractors, as it is often referred

to in mainstream publications,

being Murray & Roberts, Group 5,

WBHO, Aveng and Steffanuti

Stocks – adhere to effective, high

quality safety procedures and

m e a s u r e s , a l i g n e d w i t h

Internat ional Standards of

certification and far exceed the

requirements as set out in

legislation.

SAFCEC would like to emphasise

that it has a mutually beneficial

relationship with the Department

o f Labour, wh ich we are

maintaining in the interests of

occupational health and safety.

On 24 August 2012 SAFCEC

signed the Construction Health

and Safety Accord – an agreement

between Government, Organised

Labour and Organised Business

to improve the s ta tus o f

occupational health and safety in

the construction sector. The

agreement is proof of the value

SAFCEC attaches to collective

partnerships to reach a mutually

desired outcome – Zero Harm in

the construction sector.

As an organisation, SAFCEC is

also heartened by the growing

relationship with key stakeholders

such as the major Unions and

other employer's organisations.

“We believe that we are striving for

a common objective and that with

mutual he lp, suppor t and

understanding, outstanding levels

of occupational health and safety

can be reached in the South

African construction industry,”

Flint concludes.

6 ON-SITE engineering & constructionNE

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sATLAS COPCO INTRODUCES COMPACT COMPRESSOR TECHNOLOGY WITH BREAKTHROUGH ENERGY-EFFICIENCY

Atlas Copco surprised the market with the launch of a new, very compact oil-injected rotary screw compressor range, the 7-

+37 GA VSD , at Hannover Messe, in April 2013.

“Atlas Copco translated the most requested needs of our customers in this new type of compressor w h i c h i n c l u d e b e t t e r performances, with less energy consumed, low noise levels and a compact footprint,” says Atlas Copco South Africa's Business Line Manager - Industrial Air, Charl Ackerman.

In addition to a small footprint, the range offers a leap forward in F r e e A i r D e l i v e r y w i t h improvements of up to 12% and offers a breakthrough energy-efficiency as it requires on average 50% less energy than a comparable idling compressor. This new type of compressor is available with a variable speed (frequency-controlled) which

makes it ideally suitable for most industries.

+The GA VSD variable speed drive compressor, available from 7 to 37 kW, achieves better performances even at full load, than a comparable idling compressor. Koen Lauwers, Vice-President Marketing from the Industrial Air Division comments: “In 1994, Atlas Copco pioneered the Variable Speed Drive compressor and now we have launched an innovation that will once again set the benchmark in the compressor industry. The GA

+VSD has been completely in-house developed and brings together all our expertise and know-how about energy-efficient compressor technology”.

“The new type of compressor aims to contribute significantly to the green economy needs,” comments Ackerman and adds that this innovation will enable all

compressor users to switch over to va r iab le speed d r i ve compressors, “an important step towards a more sustainable industry.” According to Ackerman, Atlas Copco evaluated every part in this compressor: A more efficient fan, a robust air intake system, the elimination of all blow-off losses, and the best electronic components together with the new drive train, add up to energy savings of 50% on average compared to a traditional idling compressor of the same type.

+The new GA VSD is another 15% more efficient than Atlas Copco's current Variable Speed Drive compressor (the GA 7-37 VSD). A full feature version with an integrated dryer is optional. Several key components, including the drive train as well as components for the general

+design of the GA VSD , are protected by Atlas Copco, with many patents on their way.

In addition to adapting its products, Atlas Copco has also a d a p t e d i t s p r o d u c t i o n environment to the future: The GA

+VSD is currently built in Antwerp, Belgium, on a production line that i s m o r e e f f i c i e n t , m o r e standardised and that takes less space.

Regular maintenance and service by skilled technicians using the right tools and genuine parts are essential for ensuring optimum a n d r e l i a b l e c o m p r e s s o r performance and sustainable p roduc t i v i t y. A t l as Copco Compressor Technique South Africa's four service branches in Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town and Port El izabeth, supported by ten authorised d is t r ibutors , take care o f customers' requirements across the country offering turnkey service solutions across the complete Compressor Technique product portfolio.

6 ON-SITE engineering & construction16

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ATLAS COPCO'S INTRODUCES REVERSE CIRCULATION KIT FOR THE DM45 AND DML MID-RANGE BLASTHOLE DRILLS

Atlas Copco continues to expand its blasthole product offering with the addition of the reverse circulation (RC) kit for t h e D M 4 5 / 5 0 m i d - r a n g e blasthole drill. Based off proven systems, components, and technology the RC kit is designed to meet the demands of today's expanding mining market by offering the added dimension of in-pit grade control.

A number of components are included with the optional kit, which can also be retrofitted on drills currently in the field. The cyclone arm allows for sampling from the ground or platform level, with a vertical raise and lowering function. A cyclone rotation of 160 degrees provides safe access for cleaning, maintenance, and attaching new sample hoses from ground level. The cyclone is a heavy duty system designed specifically with flexibility in mind. Some of the features of the cyclone assembly are: a hydraulic upper knife valve and pneumatic

lower knife valve for collecting and isolating the sample; a hydraulic hinge between the dump box and cone splitter that allows for easy cleaning; a fixed cone splitter with primary and duplicate sample chutes. All cyclone and sample functions are all easily controlled from the operator's cab.

A 66 liter dump box, with a steep cone for limiting sample hang up is part of the sample collection feature. The primary and duplicate ports can easily be adjusted from 4-15%. The Reverse Circulation Carousel has four 4.5 inch rod cups and offers a 145 foot (44 meter) maximum on-board capacity.

Some o ther components included with the RC kit are a blast box/discharge, a blow-down valve that offers internal valving that does not require any external three-way valving or unnecessary hosing above or around the rotation head, an above head dual swivel that eliminates the need for a below

head air swivel, and a fully i n t eg ra ted samp le hose management system that has been designed with safety and practicality in mind.

The DM45 and DML reverse circulation drills offer hole diameters ranging between 4 ½ inch – 5 ¾ inches (114 mm – 146 mm) with maximum hole depths of 145 feet (44 meters) based off on-board capacity.

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Atlas Copco's new Explorac 100 is a reverse circulation drilling rig designed specifically for exploration drilling to depths of 100–200 meters. It combines a compact and robust design with the power necessary for fast collection of quality samples

The new reverse circulation rig is designed specifically for reverse circulation drilling and other down-t h e - h o l e d r i l l i n g ( D T H ) applications. It is suitable for exploration drilling to depths of 100–200 meters and has a lifting capacity of 10.5 tons

Reverse circulation is gaining ground as a preferred technology to collect quality samples in initial exploration, ore body development and in-pit grade control due to its cost efficiency and fast collection of dry, quality samples.

“The launch of Explorac 100 is a firm response to increasing demand for personal safety and environmental care. It offers the efficiency and performance required by contractors, such as fast setup and drilling speeds, easy maintenance, reduced noise levels and minimum oil spillage, and enables the col lect ion of h igh-qual i ty s a m p l e s r e q u e s t e d b y geologists,”

says Martin Sommers, Vice President Marketing – Capital Equipment at Atlas Copco Geotechnical Drilling and

Exploration division. “Following the launch earlier this spring of the Explorac 235 for medium-depth drilling, this launch confirms our position in the reverse circulation segment”.

The Explorac 100 is based on well-proven technology. It has a

rugged and compact design, which makes it easy to move around even in rough terrain. Yet drillers will enjoy the power necessary to get more quality samples out of the ground faster.

Atlas Copco can provide a complete solution for reverse circulation drilling, including drilling rig, compressor, booster and drill string. Highlighted features ?Rod handling as standard, including a 30-pipe rack ?A mechanized breakout table with two spanners ?The operator's panel is strategically placed on a tripod or carried on the operator's shoulder ?Low noise level for improved safety and work environment ?Tier III, Cummins power pack, 82 kW, ensuring

fuel efficient operations ?Hydraulic tank of cyclone

type with 30 % oil volume compared to convent ional tanks, reducing the rig's carbon footprint.

For further information please contact:Graham Martin, General Manager – Atlas Copco Exploration Products AfricaTel: +27 (0)11 608 -1741 Fax: +27 (0)11 252 - [email protected]

Atlas Copco is launching five new products for underground construction and mining applications at the Bauma 2013 exhibition. The new series of Boomer E rigs for underground face drilling features the new COP 4038, the fastest and most powerful rock drill on the market and also on display is the new COP 1800+ series. The new Boomer E-series also features a new Rig Control System and a new version of At las Copco´s advanced Underground Manager System with improved user interface that takes planning and evaluation to the next level in performance and efficiency. Last but not least, a new Dry Drilling System, providing totally water-free face drilling!

COP 4038Atlas Copco's new Boomer E-series can be equipped with the strongest and fastest rock drill on the market, the new COP 4038. It's

ATLAS COPCO LAUNCHES THE EXPLORAC 100 REVERSE CIRCULATION DRILLING RIG

ATLAS COPCO LAUNCHES FIVE NEW UNDERGROUND PRODUCTS AT BAUMA IN MUNICH

20–30% faster than the nearest contender and optimized for hard rock conditions. The COP 4038 comes with a COP Care Pro service agreement that s a f e g u a r d s r e l i a b i l i t y , availability, and sustainable productivity. The COP 4038 is a super-fast 40 kW rock drill for 43–64 mm drifter holes. It utilizes Atlas Copco's high-frequency technology together with an efficient double damping system to absorb reflex shock waves – making it possible to drill exceptionally fast without increasing wear on the drill steel.

COP 1800+ seriesThe COP 1800+ series provides the same great performance as its predecessor, the standard COP 1800-series. However, the COP 1800+ series extends recommended service intervals by 50%. This provides great savings for your operation with increased equipment availability, and less time and money spent

on maintenance. It also means a reduction in costs associated with parts and safety risks posed while maintaining the machinery. T h e C O P 1 8 0 0 + s e r i e s p r o m o t e s e n v i r o n m e n t a l sustainability through reduced parts consumption.

New Rig Control SystemDuring system development, Atlas Copco focused on creating an intuitive and easy-to-use operator system. All functions have been grouped in nine blocks under a new tree structure for easy navigation within the system. Together with the new touch screen display, operation is streamlined and training time is reduced for new operators.

Göran Manell, Site Manager Rock Excavation NCC, says: “The new Boomer with its updated Rig Control System has as much better interface and a more user-friendly screen. It's

much faster for operators to work with than its predecessor. Göran adds, - “the new RHS Rod Handling System, has given us a big advantage. Everything works much smoother and we have a much safer working environment.”

The new rig control system also includes two, new multifunctional joysticks with primary functions for drilling grouped in the top of the joystick. These highly functional joysticks allow the operator to focus on drilling instead of searching for functions on the keyboard or display.

Underground ManagerAll over the world, demands for documentation and follow-up are on the rise. This prompted Atlas Copco to c rea te i t s new Underground Manager, taking planning and evaluation to a higher level. The Underground Manager provides excellent support for all Atlas Copco underground machines. The user


The new reverse circulation rig is designed specifically for reverse circulation drilling and other down-the-hole drilling (DTH) applications.

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Atlas Copco's new Explorac 100 is a reverse circulation drilling rig designed specifically for exploration drilling to depths of 100–200 meters. It combines a compact and robust design with the power necessary for fast collection of quality samples

The new reverse circulation rig is designed specifically for reverse circulation drilling and other down-t h e - h o l e d r i l l i n g ( D T H ) applications. It is suitable for exploration drilling to depths of 100–200 meters and has a lifting capacity of 10.5 tons

Reverse circulation is gaining ground as a preferred technology to collect quality samples in initial exploration, ore body development and in-pit grade control due to its cost efficiency and fast collection of dry, quality samples.

“The launch of Explorac 100 is a firm response to increasing demand for personal safety and environmental care. It offers the efficiency and performance required by contractors, such as fast setup and drilling speeds, easy maintenance, reduced noise levels and minimum oil spillage, and enables the col lect ion of h igh-qual i ty s a m p l e s r e q u e s t e d b y geologists,”

says Martin Sommers, Vice President Marketing – Capital Equipment at Atlas Copco Geotechnical Drilling and

Exploration division. “Following the launch earlier this spring of the Explorac 235 for medium-depth drilling, this launch confirms our position in the reverse circulation segment”.

The Explorac 100 is based on well-proven technology. It has a

rugged and compact design, which makes it easy to move around even in rough terrain. Yet drillers will enjoy the power necessary to get more quality samples out of the ground faster.

Atlas Copco can provide a complete solution for reverse circulation drilling, including drilling rig, compressor, booster and drill string. Highlighted features ?Rod handling as standard, including a 30-pipe rack ?A mechanized breakout table with two spanners ?The operator's panel is strategically placed on a tripod or carried on the operator's shoulder ?Low noise level for improved safety and work environment ?Tier III, Cummins power pack, 82 kW, ensuring

fuel efficient operations ?Hydraulic tank of cyclone

type with 30 % oil volume compared to convent ional tanks, reducing the rig's carbon footprint.

For further information please contact:Graham Martin, General Manager – Atlas Copco Exploration Products AfricaTel: +27 (0)11 608 -1741 Fax: +27 (0)11 252 - [email protected]

Atlas Copco is launching five new products for underground construction and mining applications at the Bauma 2013 exhibition. The new series of Boomer E rigs for underground face drilling features the new COP 4038, the fastest and most powerful rock drill on the market and also on display is the new COP 1800+ series. The new Boomer E-series also features a new Rig Control System and a new version of At las Copco´s advanced Underground Manager System with improved user interface that takes planning and evaluation to the next level in performance and efficiency. Last but not least, a new Dry Drilling System, providing totally water-free face drilling!

COP 4038Atlas Copco's new Boomer E-series can be equipped with the strongest and fastest rock drill on the market, the new COP 4038. It's

ATLAS COPCO LAUNCHES THE EXPLORAC 100 REVERSE CIRCULATION DRILLING RIG

ATLAS COPCO LAUNCHES FIVE NEW UNDERGROUND PRODUCTS AT BAUMA IN MUNICH

20–30% faster than the nearest contender and optimized for hard rock conditions. The COP 4038 comes with a COP Care Pro service agreement that s a f e g u a r d s r e l i a b i l i t y , availability, and sustainable productivity. The COP 4038 is a super-fast 40 kW rock drill for 43–64 mm drifter holes. It utilizes Atlas Copco's high-frequency technology together with an efficient double damping system to absorb reflex shock waves – making it possible to drill exceptionally fast without increasing wear on the drill steel.

COP 1800+ seriesThe COP 1800+ series provides the same great performance as its predecessor, the standard COP 1800-series. However, the COP 1800+ series extends recommended service intervals by 50%. This provides great savings for your operation with increased equipment availability, and less time and money spent

on maintenance. It also means a reduction in costs associated with parts and safety risks posed while maintaining the machinery. T h e C O P 1 8 0 0 + s e r i e s p r o m o t e s e n v i r o n m e n t a l sustainability through reduced parts consumption.

New Rig Control SystemDuring system development, Atlas Copco focused on creating an intuitive and easy-to-use operator system. All functions have been grouped in nine blocks under a new tree structure for easy navigation within the system. Together with the new touch screen display, operation is streamlined and training time is reduced for new operators.

Göran Manell, Site Manager Rock Excavation NCC, says: “The new Boomer with its updated Rig Control System has as much better interface and a more user-friendly screen. It's

much faster for operators to work with than its predecessor. Göran adds, - “the new RHS Rod Handling System, has given us a big advantage. Everything works much smoother and we have a much safer working environment.”

The new rig control system also includes two, new multifunctional joysticks with primary functions for drilling grouped in the top of the joystick. These highly functional joysticks allow the operator to focus on drilling instead of searching for functions on the keyboard or display.

Underground ManagerAll over the world, demands for documentation and follow-up are on the rise. This prompted Atlas Copco to c rea te i t s new Underground Manager, taking planning and evaluation to a higher level. The Underground Manager provides excellent support for all Atlas Copco underground machines. The user


The new reverse circulation rig is designed specifically for reverse circulation drilling and other down-the-hole drilling (DTH) applications.

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interface is new, modern, and easy to use. The system contains a new drill plan generator, complete 3D view of the tunnel, smart interpolation of contours, and an improved log and report function.

Dry drilling system A new dry drilling system is now available on the Boomer XE3 C. For the first time, Atlas Copco is able to deliver a three-boom face drilling rig that is totally water-free. The system uses compressed air for keeping the hole free from cuttings and a suction nozzle

around the drill string to eliminate dust. The suction hose then returns the dust to a filter unit and a sealed container for simple dust logistics. The dry drilling system is ideal for projects where water is scarce or where it's not possible to use water due to rock conditions or surrounding temperatures.

Comfortable and environmentaOperator comfort, safety, and environmental care are also in the spotlight. For example, all FOPS certified cabins are air-

conditioned and ergonomically designed with the latest operator seat and controls. Atlas Copco k n o w s t h a t c o m f o r t a b l e operators are efficient and productive operators. The large 3- and 4-boom rigs offer new operator chair that are more ergonomic and functional for the operator. Carbon emissions have also been reduced to a minimum. Diesel engines take care of t r a m m i n g , b u t o n c e o n site…electricity takes over for drilling. Stage 3B/Tier4i diesel engines are standard on the rig

and biodegradable hydraulic oils are available as well.Boomer rigs can be equipped with up to four booms providing a coverage area of 16–208 m2, and the most extensive range of high performance rock drills on the market (16-40 kW) designed to tackle all rock types and drilling conditions.

All new products are available to order via Atlas Copco's worldwide sales organization and can of course outfit a rig with the features you need for all your mining applications as well.

an Mixers South Africa (PMSA) - the largest Psupplier of concrete, brick,

b lock and pav ing mak ing machinery and technology in Africa - is officially opening its cutting-edge showroom, following 18 months of tireless and dedicated work.

The two-storey 700 m2 showroom - which will also house a sales and marketing office and training facility in order to fully highlight the endless creative possibilities that concrete offers in modern day construction - will officially open to the general public in April 2013. PMSA sales and marketing manager Quintin Booysen believes that the company is setting a trend in the local industry through the construction of the entire building which is, in itself, the most fundamental aspect of the showroom. "The modern, minimalistic and aesthetically-pleasing building is constructed

almost entirely out of concrete, and in so doing, dispels the common misconception that concrete is a cold, grey and ugly material suited mostly for industrial purposes."

The showroom flooring is completed with HTC Superfloor, which is an easy-to-maintain polished concrete flooring system that provides the highest shine to the floor surface, by making use of a range of HTC floor grinding machines and accessories. Booysen notes that PMSA has gone one step further by using HTC Superfloor to polish a number of concrete pull-up structural concrete walling panels, which make up the showroom walls and main reception staircase.

“A polishing and grinding machine weighs up to 300 kg and would be impossible to run against a wall. Another option

would be to use a hand-held grinding tool, however that would not ensure a precision finish. PMSA improvised by polishing the precast concrete panels using the HTC Superfloor system, before pulling them up by making use of a tilt-up method,” he continues.

These panels are being used both for structural and display purposes to highlight the potential beauty of precast concrete, by simply polishing or adding colour aggregates to it. Booysen adds: “Our main objective is to show architects, engineers and contractors that a polished precast panel can serve as a stylish and modern finish in a home, office or shopping environment while being a structural element.” In addition to being aesthetically-pleasing, Booysen points out that the PMSA showroom is also environmentally-friendly and

requires minimal maintenance and energy in its daily usage. "Polished concrete provides further benefits that include ease of cleaning due to a smooth surface, and a reduction in lighting bills, due to the fact that the panels reflect more light into the building." According to Booysen, concrete flooring can have a lower installation and lifetime cost, when compared to traditional products such as epoxy flooring and tiling. "What's more, the entire building is fitted with acoustic and thermal insulation ceiling to ensure that the structure is kept cool in the summer and warm in the winter, thereby further reducing energy costs and unnecessary energy wastage." Booysen adds that the showroom will also play a major role in highlighting the capabilities of PMSA's full range of quality c o n c r e t e e q u i p m e n t a n d associated technology, as well as the technical support and after

PMSA OFFICIALLY OPENS ITS INNOVATIVE CONCRETE SHOWROOM


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interface is new, modern, and easy to use. The system contains a new drill plan generator, complete 3D view of the tunnel, smart interpolation of contours, and an improved log and report function.

Dry drilling system A new dry drilling system is now available on the Boomer XE3 C. For the first time, Atlas Copco is able to deliver a three-boom face drilling rig that is totally water-free. The system uses compressed air for keeping the hole free from cuttings and a suction nozzle

around the drill string to eliminate dust. The suction hose then returns the dust to a filter unit and a sealed container for simple dust logistics. The dry drilling system is ideal for projects where water is scarce or where it's not possible to use water due to rock conditions or surrounding temperatures.

Comfortable and environmentaOperator comfort, safety, and environmental care are also in the spotlight. For example, all FOPS certified cabins are air-

conditioned and ergonomically designed with the latest operator seat and controls. Atlas Copco k n o w s t h a t c o m f o r t a b l e operators are efficient and productive operators. The large 3- and 4-boom rigs offer new operator chair that are more ergonomic and functional for the operator. Carbon emissions have also been reduced to a minimum. Diesel engines take care of t r a m m i n g , b u t o n c e o n site…electricity takes over for drilling. Stage 3B/Tier4i diesel engines are standard on the rig

and biodegradable hydraulic oils are available as well.Boomer rigs can be equipped with up to four booms providing a coverage area of 16–208 m2, and the most extensive range of high performance rock drills on the market (16-40 kW) designed to tackle all rock types and drilling conditions.

All new products are available to order via Atlas Copco's worldwide sales organization and can of course outfit a rig with the features you need for all your mining applications as well.

an Mixers South Africa (PMSA) - the largest Psupplier of concrete, brick,

b lock and pav ing mak ing machinery and technology in Africa - is officially opening its cutting-edge showroom, following 18 months of tireless and dedicated work.

The two-storey 700 m2 showroom - which will also house a sales and marketing office and training facility in order to fully highlight the endless creative possibilities that concrete offers in modern day construction - will officially open to the general public in April 2013. PMSA sales and marketing manager Quintin Booysen believes that the company is setting a trend in the local industry through the construction of the entire building which is, in itself, the most fundamental aspect of the showroom. "The modern, minimalistic and aesthetically-pleasing building is constructed

almost entirely out of concrete, and in so doing, dispels the common misconception that concrete is a cold, grey and ugly material suited mostly for industrial purposes."

The showroom flooring is completed with HTC Superfloor, which is an easy-to-maintain polished concrete flooring system that provides the highest shine to the floor surface, by making use of a range of HTC floor grinding machines and accessories. Booysen notes that PMSA has gone one step further by using HTC Superfloor to polish a number of concrete pull-up structural concrete walling panels, which make up the showroom walls and main reception staircase.

“A polishing and grinding machine weighs up to 300 kg and would be impossible to run against a wall. Another option

would be to use a hand-held grinding tool, however that would not ensure a precision finish. PMSA improvised by polishing the precast concrete panels using the HTC Superfloor system, before pulling them up by making use of a tilt-up method,” he continues.

These panels are being used both for structural and display purposes to highlight the potential beauty of precast concrete, by simply polishing or adding colour aggregates to it. Booysen adds: “Our main objective is to show architects, engineers and contractors that a polished precast panel can serve as a stylish and modern finish in a home, office or shopping environment while being a structural element.” In addition to being aesthetically-pleasing, Booysen points out that the PMSA showroom is also environmentally-friendly and

requires minimal maintenance and energy in its daily usage. "Polished concrete provides further benefits that include ease of cleaning due to a smooth surface, and a reduction in lighting bills, due to the fact that the panels reflect more light into the building." According to Booysen, concrete flooring can have a lower installation and lifetime cost, when compared to traditional products such as epoxy flooring and tiling. "What's more, the entire building is fitted with acoustic and thermal insulation ceiling to ensure that the structure is kept cool in the summer and warm in the winter, thereby further reducing energy costs and unnecessary energy wastage." Booysen adds that the showroom will also play a major role in highlighting the capabilities of PMSA's full range of quality c o n c r e t e e q u i p m e n t a n d associated technology, as well as the technical support and after

PMSA OFFICIALLY OPENS ITS INNOVATIVE CONCRETE SHOWROOM


sales service capabilities of the company as a whole. "Customers will also be provided with a value added service offering as they have the opportunity to touch and feel what is on offer, in addition to being able to directly interact with our various sales eng ineers , who are each specialists in their specific product lines," he continues. "By having all divisions centralised in one location, we can ensure that we p rov ide a comprehens ive customer service offering onsite, where clients and their employees will be trained in various fields, ranging from the application and usage of products, to operator s a f e t y a n d m a c h i n e maintenance."

The concept of the showroom was f i rs t dreamt up by PMSA management in mid-2010, with c o n s t r u c t i o n b e g i n n i n g approximately one year later. "A lot

of thought and effort was put into the concept of the showroom before construction began. Using a limited budget, we have created a magnificent structure that has been well and truly worth all of the effort that everybody has put in. Having finally achieved our goal, I am confident that we will inspire various contractors, engineers and architects to make more efficient use of coloured, decora t i ve and po l i shed concrete in the future," Booysen

PMSA Contact Quintin Booysen PMSA Marketing and Sales Manager Phone: (011) 578 8700 Email:[email protected] Web: www.pmsa.com

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105 CORLETT DRIVE; AN EYECATCHING OFFICE BUILDING

Professional TeamArchitects

Structural Engineers

Quantity Surveyors

Electrical engineering

Wet Services Consultant

Mechanical Engineer

Fire Protection Consultants

Project Managers

Town Planner

Landscape Architect

Main Contractor

Paragon Architects

Sotiralis Consulting

Schoombie Hartman

Aftek Consulting Engineers

Ramsden Consulting

Adaptive Resource Engineering

Trevor Williams Consulting Engineers

Baseline Project Management

Gavin Edwards

Insite Landscape Architects

Tiber Bonvec Construction

Photography: Michelle Venter


sales service capabilities of the company as a whole. "Customers will also be provided with a value added service offering as they have the opportunity to touch and feel what is on offer, in addition to being able to directly interact with our various sales eng ineers , who are each specialists in their specific product lines," he continues. "By having all divisions centralised in one location, we can ensure that we p rov ide a comprehens ive customer service offering onsite, where clients and their employees will be trained in various fields, ranging from the application and usage of products, to operator s a f e t y a n d m a c h i n e maintenance."

The concept of the showroom was f i rs t dreamt up by PMSA management in mid-2010, with c o n s t r u c t i o n b e g i n n i n g approximately one year later. "A lot

of thought and effort was put into the concept of the showroom before construction began. Using a limited budget, we have created a magnificent structure that has been well and truly worth all of the effort that everybody has put in. Having finally achieved our goal, I am confident that we will inspire various contractors, engineers and architects to make more efficient use of coloured, decora t i ve and po l i shed concrete in the future," Booysen

PMSA Contact Quintin Booysen PMSA Marketing and Sales Manager Phone: (011) 578 8700 Email:[email protected] Web: www.pmsa.com

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105 CORLETT DRIVE; AN EYECATCHING OFFICE BUILDING

Professional TeamArchitects

Structural Engineers

Quantity Surveyors

Electrical engineering

Wet Services Consultant

Mechanical Engineer

Fire Protection Consultants

Project Managers

Town Planner

Landscape Architect

Main Contractor

Paragon Architects

Sotiralis Consulting

Schoombie Hartman

Aftek Consulting Engineers

Ramsden Consulting

Adaptive Resource Engineering

Trevor Williams Consulting Engineers

Baseline Project Management

Gavin Edwards

Insite Landscape Architects

Tiber Bonvec Construction



prominent A -Grade office b u i l d i n g r e c e n t l y Acompleted on Corlett Drive

and overlooking the M1 highway, derived its conceptual design from a number of sources including its location and context, the choice of materials and the accommodation requirements and is characterised by wrapped gable-ended form floating above a two storey concrete podium.

The building comprises three levels of basement parking, a ground floor with a landscaped podium at highway level and three pods which are used for reception and waiting area, separate training room and a separate office upper ground with a mezzanine in one of the pods First and second floors house office space and the roof top cones provide an entertainment area and executive dining facility.

The structure is designed to simulate the look of jewelry box supported on three glittering conical forms covered in re f l ec t i ve Ca ïman meta l cladding with slot windows to highlight verticality of the cone forms. Computer software was used to generate a taut co l lec t ion o f fo rms tha t challenges traditional-expressions of materials like concrete and glass and steel cladding. Generous landscaping on the podium softens the structure for the occupants.

With a high visibility for passing motorists on the elevated freeway, the unique structure acts as a landmark. Carla Soudien project architect from Paragon Architects says, “The design is based on a glazed box wh ich appears to f l oa t , supported by three conical forms

clad in Caïman, supplied by Arcelor Mittal.

On the north and south e l e v a t i o n s , a r e f l e c t i v e laminated Solarshield S30 has been specified and on east and west elevations a tinted Eclipse Grey Advantage glass has been specified as well. Ivan Lin assisted with glass specification and sound insulation.

Steel columns clad in a layer of galvanized sheeting which form the weather line and the final layer of Caïman cladding on a special sub structure made up of 'omega Rails', which form a gap between cladding layers for ventilation. Steel structure workshopped between, 3D model of s teel s t ructure submitted by the steel sub-contractor, overlaid onto the Revit model for co-ordination

and then approved (process of designing structure and approving shop drawings cut short to ensure information could reach site faster) - challenging to co-ordinate this process between steel, c l a d d i n g a n d g l a z i n g -subcontractors, with each junction being unique because of the unusual forms. 3D technology played a large role in enabling the design to be co-ordinated and workshopped between the engineer, architect and steelwork sub-contractor.

The interface between steel structure, cladding and glazing ins ta l la t ion p roved to be challenging due to the unique and unusual forms created.

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