Manufacturing concrete products is an industry segment that faces unique challenges, and AfriSam’s 90 years of experience helps alleviate some of these pressures for its customers.
“Some of the country’s leading concrete product manufacturers (CPMs) have been our customers for over 40 years,” says Adele Wentzel, Sales Manager Cement Manufacturing Gauteng at AfriSam. “These long-standing relationships give us deep insight into their daily concerns and how we can add value to their operations.”
With the need for efficient production lines and quick cycle times, the CPM segment extensively relies on AfriSam’s Rapid Hard (52,5R) cement and its High Strength (42,5R) cement. Concrete products need to be removed from molds quickly, and there are often stringent demands on quality, finish, and strength.
“While many customers have applications that need our ‘Rolls Royce’ product – the Rapid Hard cement – there are also segments where their concrete products are better suited to other classes of cement,” explains Wentzel. “Regardless of the application, customers rely on the AfriSam service team to ensure they receive the right cement and the optimal mix to achieve the best results.”
One of the current priorities in the CPM segment is reducing energy consumption, as steam curing is generally energy-intensive. A key resource for AfriSam customers is its Centre for Product Excellence (CPE), which helps find innovative and cost-effective solutions.
“The CPE’s depth of expertise – supported by sophisticated testing and laboratory infrastructure – means there are specialists available in the field of concrete products,” she says. “One of our initiatives has been a collaboration with a leading admixture provider, combining our skills and products with theirs to find ways to reduce costs for customers.”
These initiatives include targeted interventions for customers to achieve strategic improvements in their operational efficiency, she notes.
“Our ability to provide these value-adds stems from the trust we’ve built over many years within the CPM segment through sustained relationships,” she emphasizes. “Throughout the years, we have practically demonstrated our contribution to customers’ businesses, providing tangible support that cements the necessary trust.”
This trust is a vital foundation for a segment faced with varying levels of loadshedding, as CPMs rely heavily on electricity supply for curing concrete products.
“With our flexibility, responsiveness, and qualified specialist advice, we help customers manage operational uncertainties while still ensuring the highest quality of product,” she says.