Page 26 - Logistics News - July August 2023

INDU S T R I A L FL O O R S

the specified concrete mix on time. plays a pivotal role in managing the curing process
• Concrete mix control: Collaborate with the supplier and serves as a potent preventive measure against the
and engineer to ensure the mix accurately matches the development of undesirable curling.
specification.
• Proper groundwork: Prepare the subbase The subsequent step entails the set-up of joints,
meticulously, ensuring it can withstand loads and is anchoring them firmly to the subbase to prevent any
stable. displacement under the force of the incoming concrete.
• Timing and process control: Precise timing of each Precision is paramount in this task; the joints must
construction step is crucial, from the placement of the exhibit perfect levelness and be perpendicular to the
concrete to the application of surface hardeners. floor surface. Any deviation from this precision could
• Curing: Implement a controlled curing process to adversely impact joint performance, functionality and
prevent differential drying, which can lead to curling. the overall ease of navigation across the floor. The joint
levels serve as the reference points guiding the floor’s
Construction levelling process, playing a critical role in achieving the
Subsequently, meticulous attention is turned to requisite flatness and levelness standards.
preparing the subbase. Typically, a layer of G4-type
stone is meticulously laid and manipulated to create a As the concrete is vibrated and meticulously worked
uniformly level working foundation. Following this, we into the space, ensuring the elimination of air gaps
introduce a layer of plastic sheeting to facilitate the and the attainment of a homogenous mix becomes
concrete’s controlled curing process while preventing the priority. It’s essential to exercise caution to prevent
untimely shrinkage. Finally, we proceed with pouring the excessive vibrations, preventing larger stones from
concrete to the specified thickness. settling at the bottom and leaving only fine ones at the
top, which would compromise the floor’s strength.
Before the concrete can be poured, it’s imperative
that the building is sealed off. The nearest access The timing of each phase is of paramount
point should be at a minimum distance of 100m from significance, a facet well understood by experienced
the concrete pouring site. This meticulous precaution contractors. As the concrete is poured and vibrated, the

A ride-on power
floating machine
with hardener,
shake-on machine,
laser screeder and
concrete being
delivered.

24 JULY/A U GU S T 2023 www .l o g ist i csn e w s .c o .z a