Skills On Site Aug11

Skills on Site August 2011 1

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2 Skills on Site August 2011

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August 2011

CopyrightAll rights reserved. No editorial matter published in “Skills On Site” may be reproduced in any form or language without written permission of the publishers. While every effort is made to ensure accurate reproduction, the editor, authors, publishers and their employees or agents shall not be responsible or in any way liable for any errors, omissions or inaccuracies in the publication - whether arising from negligence or otherwise or for any consequences arising therefrom. The inclusion or exclusion of any product does not mean that the publisher or editorial board advocates or rejects its use either generally or in any particular field or fields.

COVER STORY4 Floor Tiling Made Easy

COnCRETE & CEMEnT7 Choosing the Right Cement11 Concrete Paved Roads Save Money

FaSTEnERS13 How to Drill and Use Fasteners in Concrete and Metal

TiMbER PRODUCTS14 Speedy Wood Joint

MUniCiPal inFRaSTRUCTURE16 Opportunities in Road Maintenance

PlUMbing22 How to Replace Shut-off Valves

Promech Publishing has a BEE rating of 168.75%

Proprietor and Publisher:PROMECH PUBLISHINGTel: (011) 781-1401

Fax: (011) 781-1403E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.promech.co.zaPrinted by:CTP PrintersTel: (011) 230-7000

The “Skills On Site” team - Top: Susan Custers, publisher; Zinobia Docrat, production; Raymond Campling, editor. Seated: Candis Allen, advertising sales; Catherine Macdiva, administration; Jackie Nene, subscriptions/circulation.

AcknowledgementsIn order to bring you the most up-to-date infor-mation from around the globe, we make use of Internet websites that are current and provide information that is relevant to local builders. Information from the following sites has been included in this issue: WikiHow – www.wikihow.com, Stock.Xchange – www.sxc.hu

SaFETY On SiTE24 How to Prevent Eye injuries

SUCCESS STORY26 never Tired of Trying

ElECTRiCal29 Working with intermediate Cable

32 lEaDing inFO

FinanCE33 Electricity Saving Houses

PainTing34 How to Paint the Exterior of a Wooden Structure

36 in TOUCH

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With these easy ‘how-to tips’ from TAL, you can’t go wrong when tiling a floor.

1. Mark the centre point of the room and transfer these marks to the corresponding skirting boards.

2. Starting at the centre mark, place a row of loose tiles along these lines. Cut tiles should be at least half a tile wide. Position edges as per step 4. Remember to leave room for TAL tile spacers.

3. If cut tiles are too small, move the centre tile so the middle of the tile aligns with the centre mark on the floor. Repositioning the tiles will now ensure correct cuts.

4. Mark the new starting point and transfer these marks to the cor-responding skirting boards. Position straight edges on these marks in both directions.

5. Start at the centre of the room. Use the appropriate TAL adhesive and with the straight edge of a TAL floor trowel, spread the adhesive onto the floor.

6. In a horizontal direction, notch the adhesive with the TAL floor trowel or TAL floor applicator.

7. Use dry tiles. Butter the backs of heavily-ribbed tiles. Bed the tiles firmly into the adhesive using a TAL rubber

COVER STORY

Floor Tiling Made Easy

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mallet. Use TAL tile spacers to create uniform spac-ing. Remove before grouting. Never ram ceramic tiles against each other.

8. Lift the occasional tile to check for full cov-erage of adhesive on the back of the tile. No voids should occur underneath the tiles.

9. Tile out from the centre mark to the edges, keeping lines straight and tile spacing even. Leave cut tiles until last.

10. Measure and cut each tile to fill edges, leaving room for TAL tile spacers. Butter the back of the

TAL introduces new packaging for its productsTAL, a division of Norcros SA, is changing its product packaging to simplify the selection process for the end-user and tiling contractor, making it easier for customers to choose the right products they require to get the job done quickly and efficiently.As a leading supplier of tile adhesives, primers, ad-ditives, grouts, screeds, waterproofing and repair compounds, TAL is a one-stop-shop for tiling solu-tions. Its adhesive range consists of standard-set, ready-mix and rapid-set adhesives for tiling floors and walls, making it the professional tiling choice.Its packaging may be changing, but customers can still expect the same reliable, top quality products that they’ve come to trust from TAL. The updated packaging equips applicators as well as architects, specifiers and decorators with clear information that is straightforward so that they can rest assured in the knowledge that they are purchasing or specifying the correct products.

“Quality is the cor-nerstone of our busi-ness and because we guarantee the perfor-mance of our products we want to ensure that customers select the correct product for the job at hand,” says Marius Botha, inland sales manager at TAL.

TAL is ISO 9001:2000 accredited and its products are designed, manufactured and tested to TAL standards, assuring customers that products will perform to specification.

TAL, Tel: (011) 206 9700, Technical Advice Centre 0860 000 TAL(825), Web: www.tal.co.za.

tile with adhesive, place the cut edge toward the wall and bed firmly into place using a TAL rubber mallet.

11. Allow the adhesive to dry before grout-ing. Use correct TAL grout for the application or job.

12. Remember to leave movement joints in all corners and in large tiled areas at maximum 5m apart internally and 3m apart externally. Fill with TAL Goldstar Sealmaster 1000 polyurethane joint sealer.TAL and TAL Goldstar Sealmaster 1000 are registered trademarks of Norcros SA (Pty) Ltd.

For more information on TAL contact 011 206 9700 or the TAL Technical Advice Centre 0860 000 TAL(825) or visit www.tal.co.za

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COVER STORY

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The South African cement market has seen a huge increase in the number of products available in the market. The products on offer range from well-established brands to new products which are locally produced

or imported. It is not easy to make an informed choice unless the basics of cement specifications and the corresponding applications are understood.

CONCRETE AND CEMENT

Choosing the Right CementThe selection of the correct cement product is an important consideration when planning a construction project. Important factors that must be considered when selecting the best cement product for an application include the design specifications for the structure or product, construction methods, durability requirements and specific environmental conditions.


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All cement products offered for sale in South Af-rica have to comply with a compulsory technical specification. If the cement meets the compulsory specification and applicable standards, and carries the NCRS approval with a Letter of Authority (LOA), it is guaranteed to meet performance criteria when used correctly.

Cement to concreteWhen selecting the correct cement for an ap-plication, it is important to note the “cement type” and the “strength class” of the product. The cement type and strength class must be displayed on the packaging of the products. Common cements are categorised in five main types of cement:• CEM I – Portland cement (containing at

least 95% clinker and a maximum of 5% additional materials plus gypsum)

• CEM II – Portland-composite cements which may contain up to 35% extenders and/or fillers (blends of silica fume, limestone, slag and/or fly-ash)

CONCRETE AND CEMENT

Correct mixes of water and aggregates are needed to get the maximum strength

• CEM III – Blast furnace cement (containing up to 55% slag)

• CEM IV – Pozzolanic cement (containing up to 55% fly-ash)


CONCRETE AND CEMENT

• CEM V – Composite cements which may contain between 60 and 80% of extenders (blends of slag and fly-ash)

The five cement types, mentioned above, have dif-ferent compositions and are further classified into strength classes according to compressive strength performance and other criteria, including setting time and chemical composition. The three strength classes for common cements are as follows:

• 52,5 N and 52,5 R (Typically CEM I or CEM II/A products)• 42,5 N and 42,5 R (Typically CEM I or II products)• 32,5 N and 32,5 R (Typically CEM II-V products)The numbers indicate the minimum compressive strength, in MPa (Mega Pascal), which standard mortar mixes must meet after 28 days of curing. The "N" stand for normal early strength and the “R” stands for “rapid hardening” or high early strength. Each class of cement must pass a minimum strength hurdle at either 2 or 7 days and compressive strength must fall within a specified window at 28 days (standard strength). For example, in the case of a 42,5 N

class cement, minimum compressive strength at 2 days is 10 MPa and at 28-days, the strength window is between 42.5 and 62.5 MPa.Cement is mixed with aggregates and water to produce concrete. The cement type and class will determine the proportions of cement to other materials used to produce the required concrete, mortar or screed. Masonry cements that comply with SANS 50413 are not intended for use in concrete, but should only be considered for brick- and block-laying, rendering and

plastering. Guidelines for concrete mixes of different strength are printed on the back of the cement bags, and are usually also found on the product brochures. NHBRC guidelines for mixing mortars and screeds are also provided. Some manufacturers also provide techni-cal assistance to help you select the best product with guidance on the correct application that will result in a quality product.PPC Cement, Nomzamo Khanyile, Tel: (011) 386 9000, Fax: (011) 386 9001, [email protected], Web: www.ppc.co.za.

Readymix concrete from a reliable supplier ensures consistent mix quality

Different cements are used for different purposes so it is a good idea to read the instruction on the bag

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CONCRETE AND CEMENT

The Royal Bafokeng Administration (RBA) is saving about R13 million per year on the low-maintenance requirement of over 300km of concrete block paving (CBP) roads in Northwest Province. The programme has created employment and empowerment opportunities for residents in the Royal Bafokeng’s 28 villages.

The programme began in 1996 when the RBA chose to use what was then the unproven system CBP system rather than the widely-used tar alternative for the surfacing of roads in its villages.

According to Concrete Manufacturers Association (CMA) director, Hamish Laing, the initial cost for CBP is only marginally higher than tar and the long-term benefits far outweigh this cost. “But, the subsequent savings on low-maintenance requirement of the CBP option makes it much more cost-effective over the long-term while also creating jobs for local residents. “The CMA has been promoting CBP for low-trafficked urban roads for the past 20 years. Our main focus has been on the upgrading of existing township roads where community residents can be trained to lay CBP roads. The money they earn on these projects has a multiplier effect, stimulating economic activity in other sectors of local communities.” Lucain Paulik, capital project manager of the RBA, says that since the project was begun, about 300km of six metre wide roads have been covered with concrete block paving, making the RBA by far the country’s biggest user of CBP.

“Little did we realise when we began the project how important our decision would be. Not only have we been saving about R42 000 per kilome-tre in maintenance costs per year, but we have created road surfaces which are safe, durable and nice looking.”

Paulik confesses that the initial decision to take the CBP route was aided by the fact that the RBA had invested in a CBP manufacturing business, Bafokeng Concor Technicrete in 1996, and opting for CBP road surfaces as opposed to tar ensured that the business had at least one reliable sales outlet. Since then the company has supplied over 1 800 000m² of concrete block pavers for the village roads project alone.“We opted for 60mm grey 35MPa zigzag interlocking

A road being surfaced with concrete block paving (CBP) in Lefaragatlhe, one of the 28 Royal Bafokeng villages which has benefitted from the system

Concrete Paved Roads Save Money

pavers for all our village road projects. They have performed extremely well and have required minimal maintenance. On the rare occasion when there is a problem such as subsidence, it is generally caused by a leaking pipe or weed growth.”Concrete Manufacturers Association, Hamish Laing, Tel: (011) 805 6742, Web: www.cma.org.za

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FASTENERSFASTENERS

How to Drill and Use Fasteners in Concrete and MetalContractors are called upon to do all sorts of fixing. Fastening items to wood or drywall surfaces can be fairly easy. Fastening items to steel or concrete can be a little more difficult. However, with the correct tools and the proper knowledge, even concrete and steel surfaces can be made to hold items.

U sing a corded drill will make the task easier because it has more power than a battery-operated drill. When drilling concrete and steel, you need all the

power you can get.

Instructions

1. Drill the screw holes in the steel or concrete before trying to fasten the screws. Use an electric drill with a masonry bit for concrete, and a steel bit for steel. Use drill bits that are slightly smaller than the screws so the screws have some material to grab onto. Drill each hole at a 90-degree angle to the surface.

2. Insert wall anchors into the

screw holes in a masonry surface. Tap the anchors into the holes with a

hammer until they are flush with the surface.

3. Use an electric drill with a driver bit to drive the screws into

the holes or wall anchors. Use steel screws for steel surfaces and

masonry screws for concrete surfaces. Do not tighten the screws too much, or you may break their heads.


TIMBER PRODUCTS

On a building site it is surprising how often you need to join two pieces of wood – whether it is for a makeshift concrete shutter or to align cupboards.

Speedy Wood Joint

Here is a quick and easy way to join the wood quickly and if it is done right per-manently. Using a dowel stick available from the local hardware of builders supply shop, a drill and some wood glue you

can join the wood in minutes. Here’s how:

Step 1Get a few dowels of different diameters that can be used for big or small jobs. The thicker the dowel the stronger the joint.

Step 2Measure the two pieces of wood and carefully mark where you want the joins to line-up.

Step 3Drill holes in the first piece of wood that will act as dowel joints. This is done easily by drilling into one of

the pieces you want to join with a drill bit that is the same diameter as your wooden dowel. Drill slightly deeper than the length of your dowel, this makes room for wood glue. Tape or any other kind of indicator on your drill bit will help you know when to stop drilling



Step 4Mark your second piece of wood: Indicate on your second piece of wood where you need to drill for the next dowel hole.

Step 5Drill the holes into your second piece of wood: Follow the same directions in step 3.

Step 6Insert your wooden dowels: ensure that all the holes line up, and that your wooden dowel pin joint is flush before you add glue to the joint.

Step 7Remove your dowels temporarily and add wood glue to the holes, connect wood dowel with wood dowel joint, allow to dry.

TIMBER PRODUCTS

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Government and municipalities recently increased their road maintenance bud-gets dramatically, which is good news for contractors who want to expand their operations and benefit from opportunities

that will arise. Contractors can buy the attachments and use their existing machines to set up a road crew that will be able to quickly and professionally repair and even build roads to international standards.The work tools are available from Barloworld Equip-ment, Caterpillar’s southern African dealer. The range includes Cat work tools for resurfacing roads

and repairing potholes. The machines are hundreds of times faster than manual labour and what is more, they work accurately - to required specifications – and do the job properly first time. Municipalities can no longer afford to have poor quality repairs done on their roads and as a result are insisting that repairs are done properly. Caterpillar’s work tools allow contractors to easily expand their services and considering the amount of money being set aside to maintain roads, it makes good business sense. Skid steers and track loader work tools for road main-tenance include:

MUNICIPAL INFRASTRUCTURE

Opportunities In Road MaintenanceContractors who are dealing with municipalities can extend their service offering to include road maintenance and construction using new work tools developed for Cat skid steer, compact track loader and backhoe loader machines.

Michael Ho, product marketing manager at Barloworld Equipment with a Cat cold planer work tool for skid steers

Barloworld Equipment’s Desigen Naicker shows a vibratory roller work tool that fits existing Cat skid steers



Cold planer When a road surface has become worn out or dam-aged it is important that the top surface (tar or con-crete) be removed so that a new top layer can be put on. This is done with a cold planer and ensures that all surface cracks and bumps are removed. It also

enables the contractor to restore the required slope and grade of the road before the new surface is laid over the top.Caterpillar’s cold planer work tools are used to grind the existing road surface off to the required depth (up to 100mm deep). To do this it uses a rotating drum with hardened cone-shaped teeth to break the surface and grind it fine. It can be set to varying depths, as well as sloped to one side or the other.The work tools are available in sizes ranging from 355 mm to 966 mm drum widths. This means that with the biggest cold planer attached, a strip of nearly a metre wide can be removed in a single run. Depending on the road material being removed, speeds of up to a kilometre an hour can be achieved.

Pick-up broomThis work tool is used as a follow-up to the cold planer and is used to sweep the surface clean and free of any dust or other loose materials that may affect the adhesion of the new surface. Various types of brooms are available either to sweep the material to the side of the road or to pick it up for disposal.In some instances material removed by a cold planer can be gathered with the broom work

Brooms for skid steer and multi terrain loaders 6 Way Dozer blade for skid steer and multi terrain loaders



tool and reused to form a new road surface especially on tar roads. Brooms are available in angle, pick-up or utility configuration in sizes to match the applica-tion at hand.

PC404 Cold planer for backhoe loaders

Vibratory drum compactorA vibratory drum work tool is used in the same way as the big compactor rollers that you see on large-scale road construction sites. The skid steer work tool’s vibratory ac-tion means that it can provide compaction that compares with bigger machines and its ability to swivel up to 15 % allows it to follow the slope or grade of the road.For road repairs the vibratory drum com-pactor is used to ensure surface material is properly compacted and the surface is bump-free and smooth. Cat vibratory drum compactor work tools have some important advantages in that they are able to follow the contour of the road, are able to maintain the same pressure on the drum

to prevent material build up in front of the roller and double scraper bars to keep the roller clean to ensure the road surface is even.

New road constructionFor suburban roads the same process can be fol-lowed once the initial roadway is cleared and sub-base materials applied. Skid steers, compact track and multi-terrain loaders can be used to prepare the surface - from clearing to applying different sub base materials and on to final compaction. On suburban and smaller roads the use of work tools such as the 6-way dozer blade will even allow the road to be prepared to a fine enough grade for compaction and

Wheel saws for skid steer and multi terrain loaders

Cold planers for skid steer and multi terrain loaders



Vibratory compactors for skid steer and multi terrain loaders

application of a top layer such as asphalt (tar). Cat work tools are available to fulfil almost limitless applications on machines commonly used by small and medium contractors includ-ing skid steers, compact track loaders, multi-terrain loaders and backhoe loaders. If you operate Cat equipment, or are in the market to buy equipment, find out about the range of Cat work tools available from Barloworld Equipment.Barloworld Equipment. Call Centre: 0800 21 22 48. www.barloworld-equipment.com

A good business opportunity awaits any contractor operating a Cat backhoe loader to branch out into pothole repairs and make our roads safer and less damaging to cars and vehicles using them. With the Cat CVP 40 vibratory plate com-pactor work tool, locally nicknamed the “Elephant’s Foot”, contractors will be able to make money repairing potholes correctly and quickly. Government and municipalities have set aside Billions of Rands to repair the millions of potholes on our road networks.“With the Elephant’s Foot pothole repairs can be carried out much more effectively by recompact-ing existing or new base material for the road properly and ensuring that the new top surface of asphalt (tar) or concrete is compacted into every nook and cranny of the pothole it is meant to fill,” explains Desigen Naicker, a product and application specialist at Barloworld Equipment, Caterpillar’s southern African distributor. The, Elephant’s Foot or CVP 40 Vibratory Plate

Compactor as it is known by professionals, is easily attached to a Cat backhoe and makes use of its enormous pushing power to firmly compact the sub-base to ensure that no cavities or holes exist underneath.Its vibratory action doubles the compaction effect and prepares the surface for filling and repairs with a new base material and top surface. A pot-hole that is repaired using proper compaction is not likely to fail when the next rains come along. The main benefits that contractors can offer municipalities and roads agencies is far quicker repair times and better, long-lasting repairs.Call Centre: 0800 21 22 48, www.barloworld-equipment.com

CVP40 Vibratory plate compactor for backhoe loaders

Elephant’s foot stomps

potholes

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PLUMBING

How to Replace Shut-off Valves As a contractor you may find yourself having to

do last minute repairs before handing over. In this article we look at replacing shut off valves.

Replacing them is easy. You must first get the valve that is the same as the one you are replacing in regards to the size, thread, and type. The purpose of a supply valve is to isolate

the item after the valve from the rest of the system. Since the valve is there to isolate an item, the entire supply will have to be shut off for a while. You may need to drain some water out first so you don't have a lot come out when you remove the valve. You should be able to see the entire valve. If the valve is at the end of a line, then there is a metal or flexible supply line connecting the faucet to the valve.

Steps:1. Find out what size you need, and remember there is a difference between compression fittings and iron pipe fittings. They are not interchangeable. If you can't shut everything off, remove the valve, and then take it with you to get the new one.

www.hpeafrica.co.za


PLUMBING

2. Try to always use proper tools. Supply valves under the sink typi-cally can be removed with a crescent, open end wrench, or chan-nel lock pliers. Bigger valves will need a pipe wrench. If you have a big valve, you will need two wrenches, one to hold the pipe and one to turn the valve.3. Find the next valve up the line from the one you want to replace and shut off the supply to the bad valve. This might be the hot water heater, the house water shut off in the house, the main shut off at the meter.

4. Drain and make sure the water is off. If the valve is in a basement or first floor of a two story house, the water above you must drain out. Most systems are not air tight enough to hold back the leftover water. If you have a floor above you, go outside and open an outside tap if they come directly from the house. You could also open the sink or bath tap. If there is a

lot of water behind it, it may seem as if the water is still on. Wait a couple of minutes. If it doesn't stop, you don't have the water shut off.5. Disconnect the line from the valve that is supplying the tap. You will get a little water running out. 6. Remove the valve. With the proper tool, remove the valve. Watch the pipe you are threading it off of and make sure the pipe doesn't twist. If it does, you need to put another wrench on the pipe. 7. Apply the proper pipe joint compound to the pipe threads. 8. Install the new valve. Tighten with a wrench until it is correct and in the proper location for the supply line. 9. Turn the new valve off.

10. Prepare to turn water back on. Make sure the valve is off. Turn off any drains you opened. Turn water back on. 11. Check for leaks at the valve. If there is a lot of air in the pipe, it may not be immediate that the water is at the valve. 12. Reconnect the supply line using pipe compound if needed. Most supply lines don't require pipe com-pound, but you should inspect the ‘O’ ring if it is a flexible line. 13. Open supply valve and inspect for leaks. Tighten if needed. Turn on the tap and check one more time.

Tips• Think ahead. Don't do this if you need water right away.• Use the proper tools. This is one of those simple jobs that will mess a lot of things up if you try to take short cuts.• There are several types of pipe joint compound. Make sure you have the right one for your application.• The valves are size and thread specific. You must exchange one for one, apples for apples.• Make sure you have the water shut off before re-moving the old valve.

Things You'll Need• Correct wrenches or pliers• Teflon tape or pipe joint compound• Replica of valve you are replacing


SAFETY ON SITE

How To Prevent Eye InjuriesWorking on site exposes your eyes to many hazards, some you don’t even think of. Eye injuries can often be prevented. When it comes to protecting your sight, eye injury prevention just makes sense.

Know the four steps to eye safety.

1. Create a safe environment.Reduce the hazards: Sweep and vacuum the floors, remove any rubbish from the surrounding area. Make sure you use the proper eye protection, the tools and equipment to work properly, and read any safety in-

structions. Make sure that everyone knows how to use their protective gear and tools and equipment. Anyone not working directly on the project should be a safe distance away.

2. Judge the situation.Look for the main risks in the area. Evaluate the area for possible risks from others, any hazard-ous equipment, and falling or moving rubbish.

3. Wear the correct eye protection.Use the proper eye protector for your activity.

Make sure the gear is in proper con-dition. Make sure the protection fits you properly and will remain secure.

4. Be prepared for emergencies.Have germ-free solutions and eyewash readily available. Make sure everyone knows how to contact emer-gency assistance.


Recognise the common dangers.• Dust, concrete, and metal particles. • Chemicals, such as acid, fuels, cleaning solvents, wet/dry cement powder. • Moving rubble, such as gravel or wood chips. • Smoke and poisonous gases. • Heat hazards and fires. • Building materials. • Welding light and electrical arc. • Glass.

Tips • Removeanydustanddebrisfromhardhats, helmets,hair,forehead,orthetopoftheeye gearbeforeremovingthem.• Do not rub your eyes with dirty hands or clothing.• Cleanyourprotectiveeyegearregularly.• Weargogglesoveryourprescriptionglasses• Alwayswearsafetyglassesorgogglesunder afaceshield.

WarningsPrescription safety lenses are not suitable for high impact.

SAFETY ON SITE



An inspirational example of a person who has done just that, is Claude Pretorius, owner of Pride Awnings and Gates. He has run his successful operation since 1990 when he

started manufacturing gates and awnings for the housing and industrial markets. Being an opportunist Claude has steadily steered the company into new ventures to capitalise on opportunities as they arose. Since then the business has steadily branched out into different, but related, operations including building, civils, steel construction and landscaping. “Each time we ventured into a new field it opened new opportunities and this has kept the business going through good times and bad,” says Claude.

Success to successHis most recent ventures have been into landscaping of parks and recreation areas which requires investment in earthmoving machines and equipment. Again, having become familiar with these machines, Claude has seen an-other opportunity and recently opened new doors in the equipment rental business. “One thing leads to another and all you need to do is look for the right opportunity,” he adds.Pride Gates and Awnings currently has its main attention focussed on providing construction, civils and landscaping services to the private sector as well as major municipalities around the country.

Growth in these sectors has been such that it is currently awaiting confirmation of its 5CE (civil engineering) and 5SH (landscaping) grades from the Con-struction Industry Development Board (CIDB). The company’s work is already well known by many in the Johan-

nesburg area where recent projects included World Cup projects like the R24 corridor from Johannesburg

SUCCESS STORY

Never Tired of Trying

R24 corridor

Father and son, Claude andChedwyn Pretorius Getting ahead in business sometimes means trying

different things and taking opportunities that come your way when they do come.


Cat Skid steer

to OR Tambo International Airport that transformed the dull industrial landscape into a vibrant gateway for visiting tourists complete with different countries’ flags, lights and colourful parkways.

Landscaping the futureThis was one of the more noticeable contracts un-dertaken for Ekurhuleni Municipality. The multi-million Rand project included landscaping, tree planting and flowerbed preparation as well as making flag-poles and installing them along the entire length of the highway.This might have been the most noticeable World Cup project undertaken by Pride Awnings and Gates, but by no means the only one. At the same time the company was involved in the construction of many ablution and community recreation facilities for Johannesburg City Parks.In 2008 the company was given the go ahead by Johannesburg City Parks to build the ablution block for the community of Diepkloof Extreme Park in Soweto. This was no ordinary park and Claude, his team and other contractors had to pull out all the stops to complete it to specification.

Going to Xtremes“The challenges are to build the ablutions in the parks of different communities that boasts multi-purpose courts, splash pools, mini soccer fields and amphi-theatres, as well as a big screen TV. With the help of workers from various municipal departments and the community, Claude’s team pulled it all together and provided the equipment and know-how to success-

SUCCESS STORY

Construction project underway



fully make it happen. In fact, so successful was

Diepkloof Extreme Park that in November 2008 it won a gold medal at the Liveable Communities Awards (LivCom) in China. Johannesburg City Parks trans-formed a run-down open piece of land into one of the most beautiful and useable parks in the whole of Johannesburg with children and adults from the surrounding areas making use of it on a daily basis.“Our most recent achievement was the completion of the Pimville Extreme park completed in April 2011, very similar to the one done at Diepkloof Extreme Park.“It is satisfying to complete high-profile projects like this for the community, but behind the scenes there is a lot of pressure to get the job done right, on time and within the budget allocated,” Claude adds.

Keeps growingThrough landscaping and construction projects like these Claude has grown the business from its humble beginnings to the point where it is currently involved in projects around the country. It employs 80 qualified full-time employees and an average of 100 casual employees sourced mainly from communities where work is being carried out.

Before the large-scale projects done in 2010, Pride Awnings and Gates rented its earthmoving equip-ment, but with the increasing scope of the business Claude saw an opportunity to expand and buy his own fleet of machines. Having had experience of operating many types of machines he decided to buy machines and chose to stick to the one brand that he trusted above all other – Caterpillar. All arrangements were made

and having looked at current and future needs together with the sales professional from Barloworld Equipment he decided to buy a reconditioned Cat 424D backhoe loader.

Equipment hire“The Cat machine proved its reli-ability and worth to my business and I decided to by another four brand new Cat 428E 4 x 4 backhoes as well as a Cat 216 skidsteer (with auger and angle blade work tool) as well as a hammer work tool for rock breaking and demolitions. “I had an idea that there are many contractors out there, much the same as myself before I bought my own machines, who would rather hire machines as required

than buy them outright. I started the rental business and chose Cat because you can’t hire-out unreli-able machines, a broken machine does not earn you money,” he points out.While some of his machines work on his current proj-ects the others are available for hire. Already the company has a loyal client base and as long-term contracts arise, so his entrepreneurial spirit begins to kick-in and draw up plans to buy the next machine and go bigger and better still.

Future challengesAs for the future it is difficult to pin Claude down on what his plans may be. For the time being, he says, it is mainly to keep growing the business and to con-centrate on providing the best possible service to his new equipment rental customers. He has big plans in this regard and has his eye set on expanding his fleet, this year, to include motor graders and excavators – so watch this space. Where he gets his inspiration to try new things from nobody knows, but one of the most important factors is that he has the close support of his family. Being a family run business he constantly relies on input from his wife Sharlene and son Chedwyn who is currently studying but helps out in the business during holidays.“I think the fact that the business is family run makes it more comfortable when trying new things because you know you have the full buy-in and support of the people who are the most important to you. But, all our employees are like family anyway so we all feel blessed and happy to keep going and keep trying to be the best,” concludes Claude.Pride Awnings and Gates, Claude Pretorius, Tel: (011) 493 0222, Fax: (011) 499 1494, Email: [email protected]

SUCCESS STORY

Cat Backhoe loader

Ablution construction in one of the parks finished by Pride Awnings and Gates

Pouring a slab

Multi-use court

mailto:[email protected]


Intermediate voltage cable (1,9 / 3,3 kV Interdac Cable) has a reduced lifetime compared with standard LV or MV cables, because of higher operat-

ing electrical stress and low cost design. Aberdare’s Interdac range of low cost Intermediate voltage cables, for example, was introduced to the South African market to fill a very specialised niche.Until that time, it was very expensive to transfer even a small amount of electric power over a long distance at low voltage. Typical application would be bore-hole pumps for farmers, electricity supply for farm workers homes etc.The implication here is that these are not critical loads, and that failure is of little consequence. The big advantages over conventional 400 V 3 phase systems, and which was offered by the increased volt-age of 3,3 kV were:(a) no volt drop accommodation over many kilometres. (Typically 10 km).(b) use of small conductors. (Typically 10 mm²).

There was a problemBefore the introduction of 3,3 kV, there was a problem with 400 V systems in that they were not able to convey electric power more than a few hundred metres, and even then, very large and expensive conductors were required for limiting volt-age drop reasons.However introducing a higher system volt-age reduces the thermal stress on the in-

ELECTRICAL

Working With Intermediate Cable

Electrical contractors have many choices when running intermediate cables over long distances. Interdac III cables are

perfect for use in some applications, but as always contractors should use this

cable only for its intended use.


sulation but i n c r e a s e s its electric stress. The r e -la t ionsh ip b e -tween insulation stress and lifetime is well-known - the higher the stress, the shorter the lifetime. In the case of Interdac III, with insulation thickness set to interna-tional norms, the stress is several times higher than in conventional 400 V cable. Although this results in insulation material saving, therefore lower cost, overall lifetime is reduced as a result. A typical supply to a farm is 25 kVA, supplied at 400 V 3 phase. (Some farms have 50 kVA or even 100 kVA supplies). This equates to 36 A per phase for the 25 kVA supply. With an allowable voltage drop of 5%, the maximum distance this power can be transferred is 230 m using a 16 mm² x 4 core cable. (The cable incidentally is rated at approximately 80 A!) a 50 kVA supply is rated 72 A / phase, and the maximum distance for this transfer would be 250m using a 35 mm² x 4 core cable.

Very expensiveThe only way of transferring this power a longer dis-tance, would be to use a larger 400 V cable (because of voltage drop), and this of course is very expensive. As the alternative, a 10 mm² x 4 core 3,3 kV, Interdac III cable can carry the full 25 kVA supply up to 10 km, before the volt drop limit of 5% is reached. This dis-tance is reached at 5 km in the case of 50 kVA, but still using only a 10 mm² x 4 core Interdac III cable.The benefits of the 3,3kV system are obvious. As a result, the initial acceptance of 3,3 kV cable was overwhelming. This was due in part by Eskom Agrilec endorsing the use of Aberdare’s 3,3kV Interdac cable, in order to promote the use of electricity in agricultural applications.

As mentioned, Interdac III cable was substantially cheaper than any other cable of comparable ca-pability, because it was:a) Small conductor size (typically 10 mm²) because of the higher voltage.

ELECTRICAL

b) Without conventional wire armouring.

With limitationsRecently however, greater and greater use of Interdac III cable have been used, in what may be considered inappropriate applications. These cables are now being used by industry, to drive small loads quite far from the main establishment. They are also being used on greater scale by game-lodge owners, to electrify up-market game farms etc. In theory there is nothing wrong with this, but the users tend to forget that this is a low cost cable with limitations.An 11 kV paper insulated cable is designed for a lifetime of approximately 40 years whilst an MV XLPE cable is designed for a lifetime of 30 years. This is not the case with an Interdac III cable, and one wonders what disruption will be caused when these cheaper 3,3 kV cables come to the end of their useful lives in a much shorter period than 30 years.The other problem with Interdac III cable is the dif-ficulty of fault finding. Traditionally on PILC cables, the use of surge generators is standard. When used on Interdac III cables, such use will cause irreversible damage to an already overstressed insulation system. The result, an even shorter lifetime.

UnfairInterdac III cables are designed for low power, long distance applications, at low cost but for non-critical loads. It is incorrect to expect the same degree of reliability from a cable costing only a fifth of the price of an alternative LV or MV cabling systems.Aberdare Cables, Annelene Sivalingum, Tel: (011) 396 8000, Email: [email protected]

What disruption will be caused when these cheaper 3,3 kV cables come to the end of their useful lives in a much shorter period than 30 years



www.dpiplastics.co.za


LEADING INFO

These statistics are provided exclusively for Skills on Site readers by Databuild, the leading provider of construction related information in South Africa. Databuild has been providing information for thirty five years and tracks projects from

planning through to awarded stages. Each month Databuild will provide statistics reflecting trends in the industry. For more information about Databuild please contact us on (011) 259-4500 or visit us at www.databuild.co.za

32

Value of awarded projects by province in Rmillions - June 2011

Province Value in RmillionsEastern Cape 649

Free State 212

Gauteng 2,061

KwaZulu Natal 977

Limpopo 1,063

Mpumalanga 1,894

North West 145

Northern Cape 335

Western Cape 1,058

Grand Total 8,393

CIDB GRADING CIDB Grade 1

Value in Rmillion

CIDB Grade 2

Value in Rmillion

CIDB Grade 3

Value in Rmillion

CIDB Grade 4

Value in Rmillion

CIDB Grade 5

Value in Rmillion

CIDB Grade 6

Value in Rmillion

Eastern Cape 3 6.2 3 2.8 5 12.5 8 169.5 4 96.2Free State 3 4.5 5 24.8 2 18 5 45Gauteng 5 1.5 4 4.5 4 41.9 8 35.9 8 191.4KwaZulu Natal 1 0.5 5 6.5 23 39.4 13 55.9 11 51.8 14 97.1Limpopo 1 0.9 4 8.2 7 11.1 10 49.7 11 72.5 13 128.4Mpumalanga 2 4.6 4 9.1 2 7.9 4 38.2North West 2 2.6 1 1.5 2 5.8 2 10 1 9.5Northern Cape 6 8.1 2 7 1 30Western Cape 1 0.2 7 3.1 14 17.6 10 28.3 6 34.1 5 49.8Total value per grading in Rmillions

3 1.6 26 28 63 94 55 234.9 50 399.8 55 685.6



FNB Housing Finance in partnership with GIZ, German Development Agency and Carbon Programmes, has piloted an energy-efficient housing project to test new ways of using less

energy in this market space to allow customers to save on their electricity costs. In the pilot project, 10 houses were built in Cosmo City, Johannesburg, using new forms of insulation in the walls, foundation and ceilings. The housing units were also fitted with solar water heaters allowing for both high and low pressures.“Most people often do not associate affordable housing with energy efficiency and when they do, think there are massive costs involved,” says Marius Marais, CEO of FNB Housing Finance. “This is because the general view has been that energy efficiency re-quires expensive solar geysers, solar panels for lights, high maintenance costs and other expensive goods.” With expected electricity increases, FNB realised that this could have a major impact on the affordability status of customers. Existing customers will find it more

difficult to make ends meet and prospective home-buyers will find it difficult to qualify for home loans as a result of affordability pressures.“We are excited as the initial results show that this in-novation can save homeowners a lot per month on their energy costs,” notes Marais.The houses’ energy usage has been monitored since August 2010 and a comprehensive report is expected by the end of September 2011. The actual electricity usage and savings during winter and summer will be given to FNB and its partners to release more energy efficient houses in the affordable housing market in future. Should the study be positive, FNB will consider building more energy efficient units in future devel-opments. “If we can deliver affordable energy efficient units, we will be able to make our customers’ lives better and contribute in a positive way to the environment and our country’s electricity challenges,” he concludes.First National Bank, Busi Mngomezulu, Tel: (011) 371 9124, Email: [email protected]

FINANCE

Electricity Saving Houses

With the world going ‘green’ and pressure mounting on

developing countries to reduce their carbon footprint, especially the use of coal to make electricity, FNB has started an energy efficient

housing project in the affordable housing market.

This house in Cosmo City saves elec-tricity and saves the owner on future electricity bills

[email protected]


of a Wooden Structure

PAINTING

In your dealings with a variety of clients, you may come across someone who needs a wooden structure or building painted. This is very different from other structures, as an amount of

waterproofing must be part of the job.

How to Paint the Exterior

1. Begin your preparation with a power washer. Though

it can be effective at cleaning, this must be done very

carefully and not at close

range, or it can

d a m -age siding

and drive wa-ter into the wood

and walls. Some say that you should not

power wash unless you plan to let it dry for at least

a month. You do not want to paint over wet wood. Take

your choice.

2. Scrub all mould with bleach and water and then water only.

3. Set all nails with nail set.

4. Screw all loose siding, trim and accessories.

5. Sand all loose paint. Never use paper disk sand paper, as it doesn't last long and is hard to control. Use hard board sanding disks usually 80, 100 or 120 grit. You should sand very lightly so no sanding grooves will show. Used correctly, this should last half, or most of the day.

6. When you sand loose paint, use a painters mask to avoid breathing fine paint dust. Older paint has lead in it and it can give you lead poisoning. One advantage of the scrubbing is that it reduces the dust that you breathe.

7. To seal rusted nails drain pipes etc, use Red Oxide.

8. Break painted-in windows and repair window glaze by removing loose material and patching. Wood window sills may need to be sanded to wood and fiber glassed with compatible epoxy. Use some mix of Linseed Oil on dry rot and overly dry wood. You can also use fiberglass to seal overly damaged dry rot. Prime with oil base primer. Never use water base primer outside as it will not hold up on wood.


PAINTING

9. Put paint into a bucket with a roller screen, in combination with a hook, to hang it from ladders and scaffold, and as a catch if it should slip. All tools can be equipped with hangers. Roll on the paint with a long roller for speed, best quality, and then painted out with a brush. An acrylic angle brush is light, easy to use, and can be used for nearly every applica-tion. A brush holder can be bought which hangs on the bucket. Spray painting is faster, but will never do the job of hand application, since the paint is usually thinned for the gun. Beware of painters who use the cheapest materials, and the fastest means to save costs. Often they charge the highest prices and do the cheapest job.

10. Do filling. Fill will stick better to paint, than raw wood. Fill all nail holes or anything up to 5cm with oil based window glaze. Allow the surface to glaze over for more than one day before painting. You can also use fiber glass filler for large holes. Use elastomeric, paintable calk, the most long lasting that you can get, for most vertical joints, cracks, some knot holes. Seal up vertical framing like windows and trim. Do not calk overlapping horizontal membrane.

Warnings• Outdoor painting can be dangerous when heights are involved. Tall ladders should be tied down. Scaffolding is the safest, since if you slip, you can usually find something to grab onto. Always have a plan in your head, for if the worst happens. Never take chances.

11. You must use paint over the entire exterior surface with exterior primer before you paint. If you do not use exterior primer, the "oxidation" on the old paint will burn the new paint and between 1 and 2 years it will peal off. If you prime with exterior primer, the paint will last over a decade.

12. Choose paint. Lighter paint reflects the sun; darker paint absorbs it, and tends to break down faster. It is best to use 2 coats of only '100 percent acrylic', over oil base primer. Exterior latex will not last. Two coats will last longer than one. A good paint job should last ten to fifteen years. Usually like everything, the best paint costs the most money.


In Touch

Cementing road safety

Already a global leader in cement, Lafarge has spent the last four years actively promoting road safety in its quest to become one of the safest companies in the world.CEO of Lafarge Industries in South Africa, Thierry Legrand, says that, with a massive fleet of vehicles worldwide and its South African supply chain depart-ment managing thousands of deliveries each month, road transportation is a vital part of Lafarge’s business. “Over 1.3 million fatalities each year around the world makes road safety an issue that affects every indi-vidual,” he says. “As a group each year, we dedicate the month of June to health and safety, this year is especially focused on road safety.”

Safety improvementLafarge South Africa has implemented a compre-hensive safety improvement programme focusing on defensive driving for all drivers, satellite tracking of transporter vehicles, roadworthy checks and a fatigue management programme. “This campaign is a top-down and a bottom-up initia-tive,” says Thierry. “It’s about educating all our staff and working together as a team to ensure each other’s safety. Just as Lafarge is global, so is our concern. The

World Health Organisation (WHO) says that by 2030, road accidents will become the fifth greatest cause of death.”Thierry points out that even though 90 percent of road accident fatalities happen in underdeveloped countries, statistics from developed countries are also alarming. Statistics show that in South Africa an average of 33.2 per 100 000 people die in road related deaths annu-ally, which is extremely high when compared to other countries like the UK with only 3.59 per 100 000 and Australia averages 5.2 per 100 000 per annum.

Minimising riskA key message driven by Lafarge is that the risks of

being on our roads applies to all of us and there is a need for us as individuals to take action to minimise these risks. In line with this, personal driver and road safety is also a focus, and these were highlighted at the national safety day held at Lafarge sites coun-trywide on the 22 June 2011. Here staff were urged to adopt safety measures when planning a trip and during the journey. The campaign is growing in strength and producing results, says Thierry. “All safety concerns and initia-tives are addressed globally first until good progress is shown, with each region then addressing geographi-cally specific safety concerns. Our safety campaigns aim to raise awareness not only amongst our own staff but also amongst all of our contractors and the communities in which we work.”Lafarge, Thierry Legrand, Tel (011) 657-0000, Fax: 086 631 0003, Website: www.Lafarge.co.za

Lafarge worldwide is actively promoting road safety

Promech Publishing has a BEE rating of

168.75%

www.lafarge.co.za


Eurolux provided new lighting and other improvements for the Sophakama Primary School

In Touch

Du Noon school gets boost

Lighting specialist Eurolux is showing it cares by get-ting involved with school upliftment projects, by partnering with Sophakama Primary School in Du Noon outside Cape Town. The school of 1200 pupils, which saw the first Xenepho-bic attacks in 2003, was in dire need of an upgrade and Eurolux provided new lighting, paving and a shared mural at a recent activation day. The lighting company further supplied and planted 65 indigenous and 25 fruit trees at the school, with the help of the

learners and teachers. This is the first phase of an ongoing project which will see Eurolux install fans, provide playground equipment and renovate some of the class rooms. “Due to the widespread need in many schools, we feel it is vital that corporates come alongside schools and other educa-tional centres, to see children benefit from a wholesome learning environment,” comments brand manager and project coordinator Andrew Wex.

Lighting the wayA lighting study done by the company re-vealed that a lot of the existing infrastruc-ture in the school could be kept, however there were obvious lighting needs. Eurolux replaced seven pole floodlights with 85Watt CFLs, which offer a wide beam perfect for outdoor boundary lighting. Some bulkheads were also in need of replacing and as the school already used fluorescent tubes, Eu-rolux provided them with new ballasts and tubes for future use. Sustainability was one of Eurolux’s major con-cerns and they involved the pupils, teachers and even community members in most of the activities. “They were so excited to par-ticipate and we believe this helps them to

take greater ownership of the project and their future as a whole,” says Andrew.Eurolux reached out to their top retailers in the Western Cape to form part of the day and to come and see firsthand how their involvement can change lives. The school’s environmental class was especially hands-on when it came to the painting of the mural. It includes the ideas and artwork of the children, providing them with a sense of pride and uplifting the building’s looks.Eurolux, Andrew Wex, Tel: (021) 528 8400, Fax: (021) 528 8500, Web: www.eurolux.co.za

A student paints part of a mural at the Sophakama Primary School

www.eurolux.co.za


In Touch

HIV Aids support

Contractors that rely on getting their supplies seldom think about the route that the materi-als have taken and the truckers that are responsible for getting it to them. HIV Aids is taking a serious toll on these truckers and for this reason Mercedes-Benz South Africa is getting involved.Trucking Wellness which assists truckers prevent or treat the disease was recently given 10 custom-fitted Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans, which are important to expand the reach of this HIV and Aids project. This marks another milestone in the partnership between the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), Mercedes-Benz South Africa (MBSA), South African Business Coalition on HIV and Aids (SABCOHA), National Bargaining Council for the Road Freight and Logistics Industry (NBCRFLI) and Trucking Wellness. The project takes a joint approach to tackling the threat of HIV and Aids in the trucking sector head on, and has grown from strength to strength since it was planned by the NBCRFLI in 1999, then under the banner of Trucking Against Aids. The lifestyle of a truck driver can often be very hard with gruelling hours, long distances and prolonged loneliness, which has led to some drivers finding comfort on the side of the road, generally from sex workers who work along major trucking routes. This has led to an alarming spread of both STD’s and HIV and Aids in a sector that plays a significant role in the economic health of the country. Trucking Wellness takes a two-pronged approach to HIV and Aids advocacy, testing, counselling and treatment. To date 21 clinics have been created at truck stops on major freight routes nation wide. The 10 new mobile clinics brings to 15 the total number of specially equipped vehicles that travel to depots at freight and logistics companies, providing the same service. Future expansion plans include following the trucking routes across the borders of the country, to bring the service to neighbouring countries, where many South African drivers work. Trucking Wellness, Tel: 0800 133 355

Construction CoursesContractors wanting to improve their skills can participate in one of the following professional training courses provided by Khuthaza and Tjeka Training.The following courses are being offered this month:

Thursday 4 August: Business Finance and Tax Seminar Time: 8:30 for 9:00 – 14:00Venue: Khuthaza at Tiber, 2 Baldwin Road (Corner Eloff Street Extension), Village Deep, JoburgTarget Group: Contractors with at lea st two years of experience or young professionals Fee: R200

Saturday 6 August: Contracts and Legal Issues Time: 8:30 for 9:00 – 16:00Venue: Khuthaza at Tiber, 2 Baldwin Road (Corner Eloff Street Extension), Village Deep, Joburg Target Group: Contractors with at least a year of experience or young professionals Fee: R200

Saturday 13 August: Advanced Contracts and Legal Issues Time: 8:30 for 9:00 – 16:00Venue: Khuthaza at Tiber, 2 Baldwin Road (Corner Eloff Street Extension), Village Deep, JoburgTarget Group: Contractors with at least two years of experience or young professionals Fee: R200

Monday 15 – Friday 19 August: Foundations (5-day techni-cal course)Time: 8:00 – 16:00Venue: Tjeka Training, Chamdor, Krugersdorp Target Group: Contractors with at least a year of experience or young professionals Fee: R1500

Saturday 20 August: Leading Teams Time: 8:30 for 9:00 – 16:00Venue: Khuthaza at Tiber, 2 Baldwin Road (Corner Eloff Street Extension), Village Deep, JoburgTarget Group: Contractors with at least a year of experience or young professionals Fee: R200

Saturday 20 August: Foundations (1-day technical workshop) Time: 8:00 – 16:00 Venue: Tjeka Training, Chamdor, Krugersdorp Target Group: This is an introductory workshopFee: R100

Saturday 20 August: Plastering (1-day technical workshop) Time: 8:00 – 16:00 Venue: Tjeka Training, Chamdor, Krugersdorp Target Group:This is an introductory workshopFee: R100

Khuthaza, Tel: (011) 275 0268, Email: [email protected], Web: www.khuthaza.org.za

www.khuthaza.org.za


www.arcelormittal.com/southafrica


www.academybrush.co.za

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