www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I May 2025 37
Project and equipment via air freight. RPM air-freighted initial batches of tools to kickstart the project, followed by a process of sourcing materials from various international suppliers. These materials include piping, insulation, pumps from Germany, and controls from Switzerland, all critical components necessary for the comprehensive refurbishment of the building ' s HVAC system.
RPM ' s strategy includes segregating hazardous and nonhazardous materials, meticulously documenting each shipment to comply with Angola ' s specific requirements.
“ Moreover, amid these logistical acrobatics, we faced unexpected technical issues, such as the booster pump failures in the basement— a plumbing element initially falling outside our scope, albeit crucial for maintaining water pressure essential to our operations. Swift action was imperative, and our team quickly devised solutions to ensure minimal disruption as we proceeded with modifications, pressure testing, and insulation tasks critical to the project ' s integrity.”
ON-SITE CHALLENGES AND ADAPTIVE STRATEGIES The operational environment on-site presents its own set of challenges. RPM ' s workforce, comprising skilled engineers, technicians and artisans, operates under rigorous conditions, often spending extended periods away from home. Specialised logistical support, including customised meal plans and laundry services, further enhances the team ' s efficiency and well-being during their extended stays in Luanda.
Security measures are paramount, given the project ' s high-value equipment and materials. RPM has implemented stringent protocols to safeguard against theft while the building ' s prominent location on one of Luanda ' s main roads requires careful scheduling of deliveries after hours to minimise disruption to traffic.
“ One of the foremost challenges we ' ve encountered involves the logistics of coordinating multiple shipments. Various components crucial to our project— like Schneider controls from Infinity, spare parts from chiller manufacturers, and materials for contractors— needed to converge seamlessly into one cohesive operation. Despite our efforts to streamline the process into a single consignment across four containers, each invoice had to meticulously detail freight costs, that demanded precise
“ Drawings, essential for guiding modifications and installations, proved sorely lacking in detail and accuracy, prompting us to undertake extensive redrafting efforts.”
handling,” says Wallett.
Modified piping in plantroom 7.
www. refrigerationandaircon. co. za RACA Journal I May 2025 37