BENEFICIATION
T
preference among these contractors for
hollow-core slabs versus rib-and-block
technologies, also one of CoreSlab’s key
competencies.
“Certainly, this can be attributed to the
rapid rate and ease at which hollow-core
slabs can be installed compared to rib-and-
block systems, which are also an effective
means of accelerating these projects. We
oversee the entire process, starting with
the optimal design of the layout of the
floor through to the installation, which
includes levelling and grouting. This also
ensures a high-quality flooring installation.
Conversely, rib-and-block systems are
installed by these builders who may not
have the time to ensure a high-quality
fitting,” De Bruin says.
The hollow-core slabs are placed on top
of thin mortar bedding that is placed on
the load-bearing brick walls to complete
the floor of the structure and, once levelled
and grouted, the building contractor can
commence almost immediately at that
level. This is opposed to the extended
periods associated with conventional in situ
“It is an extremely
competitive market in
which survival depends
on the ability to
construct high quality
structures swiftly to
make available capacity
for the next project in
the order book.”
he residential property market
remains buoyant in and around
Polokwane, in Limpopo province
of South Africa. This is despite
building activity having slowed down
somewhat since 2014 when demand for
housing in the Limpopo capital city was at
its zenith.
Based on the number of houses and
living estates currently going up, there is
still ample opportunity for many ‘bakkie
builders’ to ply their trades in the largest
urban centre north of Gauteng.
It is an extremely competitive market in
which survival depends on the ability to
construct high quality structures swiftly to
make available capacity for the next project
in the order book. This ability is facilitated
by incorporating the use of hollow-
core slabs into the overall design of the
structure, with about 80% of these precast
concrete elements supplied and installed
by CoreSlab, a Polokwane-based precast
concrete specialist.
The company’s managing director, Jaco
de Bruin, says that he has also noted a
A mini construction boom in Limpopo province has created opportunities for a number of concrete and
construction companies.
QUARRY SA | MAY/JUNE 2018 _ 25