James Hardie is a leading high-technology manufacturer of numerous types of fiber-cement products. These are used for a range of applications such as external siding, trim and panels, as well as interior floors and tile underlays. Its manufacturing plant in Prattville, Alabama produces fiber-cement building products for the Southern and Eastern U.S. markets.
Bekaert played an integral role in the design and execution of the plant’s indoor and outdoor floors.
Both the James Hardie construction team and the general contractor were eager to implement a standard flooring solution across both interior and exterior areas that was high performance, easier to install – compared to conventional methods – and cost-effective.
Bekaert suggested to the engineer of record a steel fiber concrete reinforcement solution that met the load-bearing requirements of the indoor and outdoor operation. The solution was based on Dramix® 3D 80/60 at a dosage rate of 18 lbs/yard³. Quality processes were put in place to ensure optimal quality of the steel and the ready-mix delivered.
By eliminating rebar, the contractor was able to accelerate construction and meet a very tight deadline. Moreover, by reducing slab thickness, less concrete was needed. This minimized the project’s environmental footprint and helped James Hardie achieve their sustainability credentials.
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