Putzmeister unveils BSA 1407D classic concrete pump

This cutting-edge concrete pump is poised to bring unparalleled value

Putzmeister showcases future of concrete construction at bauma 2022

Concrete pumping with zero emissions – with the innovative hybrid iONTRON Truck Mounted Concrete Pump

Kanjanabha Bhattacharyya appointed MD of Putzmeister Concrete Machines

He was serving as President with Tega Industries before joining Putzmeister.

Equipment manufacturers lead IoT mining revolution

Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technologies that can seamlessly connect vehicles, machinery and personnel in even the world’s deepest mines promise a new era of safety, productivity and profitability for underground mining.

Concrete proof

Growth is round the corner for concrete equipment as market is projected to cross $1,300 million by 2024, exhibiting a CAGR of 13 per cent because of anticipated growth in the construction industry.

Unlocking the mining potential

The future of the Indian mining equipment market looks good with opportunities in underground mining and surface mining.

India continues to be an important market for us

Since 1958, Putzmeister has been global leaders in the world of construction and mining. The company develops, produces, sells and serves its customers with high quality and high reliability machines for pumping, distributing and placing concrete, mortar and high-density solids, and for preparing, temporarily storing, processing and transporting these materials.

Putzmeister India MD: India continues to be an important market for us

In an exclusive interview, Wilfried Theissen, Managing Director of Putzmeister India, speaks on the current scenario of concrete equipment market in India.

Building confidence

The coronavirus pandemic has created an unprecedented situation in the construction sector. Once back on track after the lockdown, government will have to take some concrete steps to support the industry and economy.

It can take 3-6 months to get back to a smooth industrial activity

At a time when the industry is going through tough conditions, Putzmeister is taking important steps to support its customers.

Putzmeister shares Value Retention Tips for concrete equipment

Concrete equipment is designed to do a lot of very intricate and precise tasks. Intelligent and sophisticated pumps and equipment need maintenance when lying idle.

Tech-Knowledgy The Way Forward

New-generation technologies can lead the construction equipment industry to newer heights in efficiency and productivity.

It is a very exciting time to be in the CE space

Putzmeister is in the process of rolling out telematics, Putzmeister Machine Cockpit to its fleet of truck-mounted boom pumps.

1,000th truck-mounted concrete boom pump from Putzmeister India

Putzmeister is gearing up to deliver the 1,000th Putzmeister truck-mounted boom pump from its factory in Goa

Putzmeister delivers 1,000th truck-mounted concrete boom pump from Goa factory

Putzmeister is gearing up to deliver the 1,000th Putzmeister truck mounted boom pump from its factory in Goa, India this month.

Medium to long term outlook positive: Wilfried Theissen

The Putzmeister India Managing Director Wilfried Theissen termed the Union Budget 2020 positive on medium to long term outlook, but said challenges remain in the immediate to short term

Putzmeister and Sany showcase concrete solutions at Excon

Putzmeister and Sany Concrete Solutions delighted customers and visitors at Excon 2019 with an expanded product range, live demos and the iconic Elephant Nights.

The company is always close to its customers business

Putzmeister is a world-leading solutions provider for pumping, mixing and placing concrete, mortar and industrial solids. For over 60 years, the company's solutions have been utilised by the construction, infrastructure, mining, energy and environment sectors in a wide range of environments and application conditions all over the world.

Infrastructure push drives CE demand

With the government is pushing for more infrastructure development in the country, construction equipment market will see demand growth in future.

Aquajet appoints Business Manager in N. America

Aquajet Systems AB appointed Keith Armishaw as its first North American Business Development Manager. Armishaw works closely with Aquajet?s regional sales teams to grow awareness of Aquajet?s hydro-demolition solutions in key markets across North America.

Putzmeister and Sany expand concrete portfolio

Starting October 2019, Putzmeister and Sany are combining forces to bring customers enhanced concrete solutions and improved after-sales coverage in India.

Concrete Future

Requirement of concrete in construction is expected to increase in the future with a slew of projects in the pipeline in real estate and infrastructure projects.

Delivering Performance

Putzmeister India recently rolled out the 5,000th stationary concrete pump from its factory in Verna, Goa.

Transforming Skill Landscape

Shortage of skilled operators has been a major challenge faced by the infrastructure and construction industry for the past many years.

Putzmeister contributes to world record concrete pour at Polavaram

A Putzmeister Operations & Management team helped Navayuga Engineering Company (NECL) set Guinness world records for largest continuous concrete pour and most concrete continuously poured in 24 hours at the Polavaram dam project.

bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2018

The construction equipment expo - held in December 2018 in Delhi - scaled new heights even while participants expressed their apprehensions on the market scenario in 2019 owing to the upcoming elections.

Bauma CONEXPO INDIA 2018

The fifth edition of bauma CONEXPO INDIA is expected to be bigger in number of exhibitors and exhibiting area, compared to last edition.

bauma CONEXPO INDIA continues to grow

The largest-ever bauma CONEXPO INDIA will open its doors soon as manufacturers from all parts of the world will present construction machinery, equipment and technological innovations from December 11 to 14 at the HUDA Ground in Gurgaon/Delhi.

Putzmeister to showcase mining solutions at IMME 2018

Putzmeister, a worldwide leading solution provider for pumping, mixing and placing concrete, mortar and industrial solids, will be showcasing its low profile concrete mixers and concrete spraying equipment used in mines and tunnels, at the IMME 2018 in Kolkata.

Putzmeister launches transit mixers

To support the clients comprehensively, Putzmeister has added the first transit mixers P6 and P7 to its offering. With a capacity of 6 cu m and 7 cu m respectively, theserobust machines are designed for great performance.

Bauma CTT Russia 2018

For the first time under the new name bauma CTT Russia, the 19th international trade fair for construction equipment and technologies was held successfully during June 5-8 at the Crocus Expo IEC in Moscow, Russia, and surpassed the previous year's results in terms of visitor and exhibitor numbers.

Putzmeister launches transit mixer P6 and P7

To support the clients comprehensively, Putzmeister has added the first transit mixers P6 and P7 to its offering. With a capacity of 6 cu m and 7 cu m respectively, these robust machines are designed for great performance.

Putzmeister Launches New Batching Plant

Putzmeister has announced the launch of its new batching plant, MT-3.0, to meet the growing demands of its customers.

Global industry leaders to meet at CTT Russia

The international construction equipment and technology industry will meet at bauma CTT RUSSIA in Moscow from June 5 to 8, 2018. During these days, the metropolis will again become the scene for Russia?s most important trade fair for construction technology.

Ambitious on Indian infra sector

Infrastructure sector is a key driver for the Indian economy. The sector is highly responsible for propelling India's overall development and enjoys intense focus from government for initiating policies that would ensure time-bound creation of world-class infrastructure in the country.

CTT Russia to be held on June 5-8

The bauma CTT RUSSIA 2018 trade fair will take place from June 5 to 8, 2018 in Moscow. The focus this year will be on the market of the host nation Russia.

Putzmeister announces new CEO

The Supervisory Board of Putzmeister announced that Martin Kn?tgen will take up the chairmanship of the Executive Board on a provisional basis, and will assume the role of CEO of Putzmeister Holding. He will perform the new role in addition to his role as CEO for Sany Europe.

Made-in-India engines from Volvo Penta

The Swedish engine major reiterated its focus on Indian market with its new Made in India range from its Pithampur plant.Volvo Penta engines have been manufactured in India for the first time, at a new dedicated production line at the VE Powertrain (VEPT) plant.

Volvo Penta unveils Made-in-India engines

Marking a new beginning in its Make-in-India initiative, Volvo Penta formally unveiled its 5-litre and 8-litre engines manufactured for the first time in India, at a new dedicated production line at the VE Powertrain (VEPT) plant. The product unveiling was done by Pinaki Niyogy, Vice President, Manufacturing and Engineering, TIL, and Parminder Singh Gabri, Director - Sales, Putzmeister Concrete Machines, the two major customers of Volvo Penta.

Aiming for New Heights

Sany has made its presence felt in Indian construction equipment market with its quality range of equipment. Be it excavators, cranes, or concrete equipment, Sany has created a niche market in India. In its 15 years of service to Indian market, Sany has become the market leader in crane business.

Revs up to Start

BAUMA CONEXPO INDIA, the international trade fair for construction machinery, building material machines, mining machines, construction vehicles and construction machinery is being held for the fourth time from December 12 to 15, 2016 at the HUDA grounds in Gurgaon near Delhi.

CTT Showcases Strengths of CIS

In spite of the difficult economic situation in Russia, CTT 2016 has brought good results. The 17th international specialised exhibition Construction Equipment & Technologies/CTT took place from May 31 to June 4, 2016 at IEC Crocus Expo, Moscow.

Turning Waste into Energy

Putzmeister is the expert when it comes to designing and building plants that employ sophisticated systems engineering. The storage and use of sludge and high-density materials is performing an increasingly important role in the diverse field of environmental technology.

Concrete Show India 2016

UBM India successfully concluded the forth edition of Concrete Show India with over 150 Indian and global suppliers and manufacturers from across 10 countries and over 5,500 trade visitors, amidst an industry showcase of products, solutions and services at the Bombay Convention and Exhibition Centre, Mumbai during May 19-21, 2016.

OTR TYRES | POSITIVE OUTLOOK

India?s growth story in non-urban infrastructure construction and mining is now way beyond green shoots? stage, resulting in accelerated sales and usage of wheeled earthmovers and haulage trucks. For OTR tyres, this obviously translates into big business and adequate space to grow.

Bauma 2016 - the biggest trade show on earth

Bauma 2016 - the biggest trade show on earth - spread across over 608,503 sq m (1.5 lakh acres) exceeded expectations this year with a participation of 3,423 exhibitors from 58 countries and the presence of about 580,000 visitors from 200 countries.

We procure new and used equipment depends on the scope of utilisation

Simplex Infrastructures is one of the largest infrastructure solutions providers in India and the Middle East having presence in across eight first growing industry verticals.Samar Ghoshdastidar, Technical Director, Simplex Infrastructures, provides an in-depth overview on the company?s equipment procurement procedures.

We dont generally procure used equipment

We call for quotes from different companies and based on technical evaluation by our mechanical section, we do recommend for which type of equipment we should go for. This is based on 3-4 major factors: after sales service, performance parameters available in the market and pricing.

Prompt aftersales service is one of the main criteria

The selection of an equipment is done based on the determination of technical suitability of equipment to suit execution methodology. In case standard equipment does not suit certain requirements, then we get it customised to fulfill the ultimate needs.

Sour CE Issue

Essentially, CE selection and procurement is a complex metrics-based decision making activity that requires active involvement of the concerned stakeholders of an organisation.

Fuelonomics Drive Developments

Smart Pumping Solutions

The infrastructure sector will drive the growth of overall concrete equipment industry, whereas the real estate segment, along with the power segment, will drive the growth of concrete pumps.

With a floor climbing placer, concreting to any height is possible

For high-rise structures and more concrete requirement, higher capacity pumps of 73 cu m/hr to 90 cu m/hr, are used, says Samar Ghoshdastidar, Technical Director, Simplex Infrastructures. Excerpts from the interview

Selection criteria for batching plants depend on the application

Portability of batching plant is a significant criterion for road and canal projects, says BV Raisinghani, President (Purchase), Jaiprakash Associates. Excerpts from the interview

Boom placer is an important equipment for high rise projects

Carrying concrete through tower cranes will take a long time resulting in losing strength of concrete. So it is definitely advisable to use the boom placers for high rise buildings, says Ahamed Mohideen, Deputy Vice President

German companies are planning more investments in India

The Indian market is served for many years, not only because of the need of raw materials to foster the nation economic growth but also because India is the third largest producer of coal. Difficult regulatory framework and business environment slow the development of coal production.

Engineered for Success

Concrete pumping at Putzmeister has come a long way since its founder Karl Schlecht designed a mortar machine in 1958 based on his diploma thesis at the University of Stuttgart.

Labour laws are still not conducive to Make in India

Implementation of labour reforms and policy reforms are fundamental for the success of the ?Make in India? campaign. Access to land, stable power supply and GST are all mandatory, says Wilfried Theissen, Managing Director, Putzmeister Concrete Machines.

Make in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched an ambitious campaign ?Make in India?, which aims to turn the country into a global manufacturing hub. The campaign projects India as an investment destination and develop, promote and market India as a leading manufacturing destination and as a hub for design and information.

Concrete Moves

Despite the Rs 2,500-crore concrete equipment industry registered nearly 40 per cent fall in the market and is under severe pressure, there are tremendous growth opportunities in the long term.

Scissor Lift Platform for Mining

To continue optimising logistics of underground mining operations, Putzmeister has developed the MINELIFT 4 scissor lift platform. With a lifting height of 4 m and 4 tonne capacity, the equipment provides a mobile and secure working platform for load and personnel lifting in underground mining and can also be set up for all kinds of installations, like piping and ventilation.

Many German companies plan to invest more in India

An overwhelming majority of bC India exhibitors (79 per cent) expect the economy in the region to improve and to continue growing, says Rajesh Nath, Managing Director, VDMA India Services.

It's time for the show!

The 3rd edition of bC India, which mirrors the pulse of the CE industry, is expected to attract over 30,000 visitors to witness the exciting range of construction and mining equipment and machinery.

Budget bites

The Union Government recognising the need for revival of investment cycle had already extended the excise duty cut on capital goods for another six months in June 2014 itself.

Will the Government be Able to Walk the Talk?

With the Union Budget scheduled in the second week of July, the entire industry seems to be on a highly expectant mood with the hope that the government will now shift to higher gear for bold, long-term and deep fiscal economic reforms. A Chinese proverb reads thus 'When the winds of change blow, some people build walls, and others, windmills.

The Winds of Change

A Chinese proverb reads thus ? ?When the winds of change blow, some people build walls, and others, windmills!? Agith G Antony finds out the views from the industry leaders who have been building windmills...

World Leader in Concrete Technology

Putzmeister`s machines are involved in the construction of metro rail projects, expansion and modernisation of international airports at Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru; as well as building of diverse power plants, hydraulic projects, liquefied natural gas tanks, refineries, ports, roads.

Looking at a Big Boom

Only about ten per cent of concrete produced is currently pumped, which tells about the huge scope for concrete pumps for the infrastructure and realty sectors. Agith G Antony trains his spotlight on the latest trends in product/technology, the growth potential for boom pumps, innovative service packages and the value additions offered by OEMs.

Proper planning before the use of boom pumps is essential.

World One, the world?s tallest residential skyscraper, with a proposed height of 442 m and 117 floors, is currently under construction in Mumbai. Simplex Infrastructures, the major contractor for this project, has put to use 60 concrete pumps and 30 boom placers.Sudheer Vathiyath talks to Samar Ghoshdastidar, Technical Director, Simplex Infrastructures, on the role played by concrete pumps in placing huge quantities of concrete continuously.Excerpts of the interview.

Putzmeister has set up a concrete project division to support specialised pumping.

Putzmeister Z fold boom pumps are popular in metro projects in places like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru. Its flexibility of boom-turning gets concrete to the farthest point in complicated structures. Putzmeister boom pumps are being used in practically all major constructions sites whether for road project, mass housing project, hydropower, nuclear power, LNG tanks or thermal power plants, says Parminder Gabri, Sales Director, Putzmeister Concrete Machines. Excerpts o

The dynamic leader

Wilfried Theissen, is the Managing Director at Putzmeister Concrete Machines. He assumed his position in 2012 and brings with him a work experience of over 20 years in Europe, Asia and America. His extensive experience in operations, development, sales and marketing, acquired in the very competitive and high-tech automotive and aeronautic industry, and two years of experience in the construction industry, create a new dynamic at Putzmeister.

Concrete moves

Despite the Rs 2,500-crore concrete equipment industry registered nearly 40 per cent fall in the market and is under severe pressure, there is tremendous growth opportunities in the long term.

We have the best products, the best services and of course, the best quality

Putzmeister has been in India for more than seven years and we are here to stay. We are committed to India, its people, its future and we are continuously developing new products for our valuable customers

German companies are planning more investments in India.

German investors are taking a positive long-term view of Indian market and continue to invest in their operations to tap growth opportunities. Maharashtra, with around 39 per cent share of German investments, remains the most attractive destination, says Rajesh Nath, Managing Director, VDMA India. Excerpts from the interview.

Realising the mining potential

38 German companies will showcase their innovative products at Excon 2013.

German investors in India take a positive long-term view of the Indian market and continue to invest in their operations and tap growth opportunities. . Maharashtra, with around 39 per cent share of German investments, remains the most attractive destination for German business in India.

Shell Putzmeister Premium HO 68

Shell Lubricants and Putzmeister co launches hydraulic oil for concrete machines specifically developed to extend the life of equipment and enhance its efficiency.Shell Lubricants, the global market share leader in finished lubricants, in collaboration with Putzmeister, world's leading manufacturer of high capacity concrete machines from Germany

We work very closely with OEMs.

In the economic slowdown techno?logy plays a role where one becomes more profit conscious and looks for someone like Shell. Our solutions are based on delivering value, says Akhileshwar Jha, Vice President-Technical, Lubricants, Shell India Markets.

Gangnam Style

Putzmeister provides efficient concrete pumping for the construction of the Lotte World Tower in Seoul, South Korea.The Lotte World Tower, a building made of steel, glass and concrete 123 floors from the ground floor up.

Reaching new heights

Wilfried Theissen is the Managing Director at Putzmeister Concrete Machines. He started his career with Spadel Belgium and GB in 1986. In 1995, he joined Sekurit Saint Gobain and till 1997 he served as Director Quality and Program.

Concrete pumps

Putzmeister offers a range of concrete pumps to suite the various customer segments based on application requirements. BSA 1404HD: This is an upgraded version of Putzmeister's most popular stationary concrete pump model BSA1404D.

Pumping solutions

Back in the day, concrete pumps were used mainly in metros and major cities; in recent years, however, the industry has witnessed increased demand for concrete pumps in the Tier II and Tier III cities;

RMC segment is a very important vertical for our business

We at Putzmeister spend a lot of resources on educating customers about the importance of pumpable concrete. We regularly organise customer awareness programmes, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to educate customers,

The Budget's impact

Industry captains analyse the Budget's implications on the CE sector. According to Vipin Sondhi, Managing Director & CEO, JCB India, the Finance Minister has rolled out a well-balanced and realistic Budget.

S-valve technology

The S-valve technology allows pumping with higher concrete pressure to reach higher output at greater heights. At the same time, the wear and tear of an S-valve pump is lower and so the operation costs are considerably lower.

bauma Africa now expanded to 50,000 sq m

Bauma Africa is continuing to expand. Instead of the originally pla?nned 200 exhibitors, the premiere of bauma Africa (18-21 September, 2013) is now expecting to host around 400 exhibitors.

Concrete Equipment | Wilfried Theissen, MD, Putzmeister

As the pioneer of research and development in concrete pumping technology, Putzmeister offers the latest and most comprehensive range of concreting solutions. Putzmeister has achieved landmarks in both the vertical and horizontal pumping of concrete.This German giant is on a mission to change the construction scenario in India by making the construction sites more automated and mechanised

bC India is the best showcase for Spanish companies and products

India is one of the most interesting markets, along with Brazil and China. Spanish companies belonging to Anmopyc are positioning themselves in the Indian market through trade missions and trade fairs as bC India, says Jorge Cuartero, Managing Director, Anmopyc.

India presents a vast potential for overseas investment, and VDMA acts as a bridgehead

The bC India show will facilitate closer interaction among German technology suppliers and the Indian construction industry, paving the way for increased global interest in the Indian market. Hence it would be a ?win-win? situation for the industry, says Rajesh Nath, Managing Director, VDMA India. Excerpts from the interview.

bC India 2013 will contribute to improve current market sentiments

BC India 2013 is a special edition and it has grown tremendously, even in times of general economic slowdown. We will have more exhibition space than in 2011, more exhibitors and expect more visitors. The positive feed?back from exhibitors and visitors showed us that there was a need for a construction equipment show in Mumbai and that we introduced the show at the right time, says Thomas Loffler, Chief Executive Officer, bC Expo India.

bC India will create confidence in the market and improve the business situation.

Looking at the need of infra?structure developments in India in the long run, the CE market has a promising future. We hope that bC India 2013 will contribute to improve current market sentiments, says Thomas Loffler, Chief Executive Officer, bC Expo India. In a chat with EQUIPMENT INDIA, Thomas stresses the fact that they will be able to offer all visitors an even more representative market place at bC India 2013.

A continuous learner

Piush Goyal assumed the responsibility of the Managing Director of Kelley Material Handling Equipment India in February 2011. He is responsible for Kelley?s India operations. Kelley India is 100 per cent wholly owned subsidiary of 4Front Engineered Solutions, Dallas, Texas, USA (one of the global leaders in loading dock equipment and HVLS big industrial fans). He successfully established Kelley as the premium brand in India, while integrating processes and operations.

Putzmeister Boom Pumps at Bangalore Metro Rail Project

Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) is a joint venture between Government of India and Government of Karnataka with the responsibility of impleme?ntation of Bangalore Metro Rail Project.

Who's afraid of China?

A few months ago, the talk of the town was the acquisition of Putzmeister by Sany Heavy Industry, a move that was made amidst much secrecy.

Ready....Camera....Action

That is what the whole nation is waiting for; waiting for the call to action, because the thriller is fast losing the plot. Here the case in point is the construction industry and related segments, including the construction equipment sector.

New Leader in Pumps

The largest Chinese-German transaction to date, the Sany-Putzmeister merger will create new global leader for concrete pumps.Finally, it?s official that the Putzmeister Holding GmbH, one of the leading players in the concrete equipment industry has been taken over by Sany Heavy Industry. Sany, based in Changsha, is a large Chinese producer of construction machinery.

The SRK Factor

The largest Chinese-German transaction to date, the Sany-Putzmeister merger, is expected to throw up a new global leader for concrete pumps, thereby changing market trends. Over the past six months, strong rumours regarding Schwing Stetter were doing the rounds and then viola.

It is our product quality that has won our customers' faith and trust

We are increasing our investment in India and our phase-II expansion is already on. We strive to give inter?national quality to our customers at the best possible price by absorbing additional cost to the extent possible,? says Michael Schmid Lindenmayer, Managing Director, Putzmeister Concrete Machines. 0 - - 24677 14 251 2012-02-15 00:00:00.000 Equipment India Besides our technology quality, customer focus is the USP for our success Anand Sundaresan, Managing Director, Schwing Stetter India.

?Neither our customers nor our competition can deny the contribution made by Schwing Stetter India in the last 12 years to make the concreting equipment economical and affordable; and thereby substantially increasing the usage of these equipment," says Anand Sundaresan, Managing Director, Schwing Stetter India. In a chat with Equipment India, Sundaresan elaborates on the CE market trends and what has made the company a leading player in the concreting equipment segment. Excerpts from the interview.

How do you rate the overall performance of the CE industry and how is Schwing Stetter placed to meet the surging demands for advanced products and services in this evolving scenario?
In the last two decades, the construction equipment industry has made enormous progress and has grown both in size as well as diversity. Liberalisation, government focus on infrastructure developments and also special concessions given by the government on imports of equipment for infrastructure projects, have all helped the construction industry. It was also necessecary because most of these projects were time-bound and the penalties for delay in completion were very heavy. This gave a boost to the construction equipment industry and helped it grow more than 15-20 per cent year on year.

In addition to this, it also attracted many construction equipment manufacturers to set up shop in India either by way of joint ventures, license agreements or a hundred per cent subsidiary. Schwing Stetter India is one such com?pany to set up production facility, approximately 12 years ago, to take advantage of the growing market in India. Schwing Stetter India is a focused long-term player in the concreting segment and is here to stay for a long time.

With a view to participate in the growth and deve?lopment of our country and to participate in the huge market potential, Schwing Stetter India has been continuously increasing its production capacities, after sales network, value-added services etc, besides expanding its product range as per the needs of customers. Schwing Stetter India keeps close contact with customers, and with the valuable inputs received from them, has been intro?ducing various new products in the market. The recently concluded Excon 2011 was an excellent oppor?tunity to meet our existing and new customers and show?case our new products; we launched 19 new products.

How does Schwing Stetter look at ending this fiscal? What sort of topline growth are you looking at in the next five years and where do you see the growth coming from?
There has been a sudden slowdown in the second half of 2011 due to various reasons including high inflation and interest costs. Therefore, the topline growth this fina?ncial year will not be as high as we had originally anti?cipated. However, there will be a growth of about 20 per cent from the previous fiscal year 2010. We expect that this is a temporary setback and anticipate an year-on-year gro?wth of between 20 and 25 per cent in the next five years.

What is your take on some of the major issues the industry faces in today?s context?
Many of the factors have definitely affected the perfor?mance of construction equipment industry. This includes Schwing Stetter. High cost of funding has resulted in lower off-take of equipment, besides increasing input costs. The devaluation of the currency by over 20 per cent has a direct effect of over 7-8 per cent on the material cost since on an average, we always have 35-40 per cent import contents in our products.

Has competition become a major drive for the betterment of industry practices in terms of services provided by OEMs?
All construction equipment are highly service- oriented. Therefore, the customers are looking for more value-added services. In order to survive in this market, improved after-sales services and value-added services are a must. Healthy competition is most welcome. However, we find that sometimes, new entrants compromise too much to gain entry by selling even at below material cost levels, which is not very healthy for the industry.

What are the initiatives by Schwing Stetter towards more affordable and application-oriented product lines?
Cost reduction is a key factor towards which we conti?nuously work, without compromising on the quality of the components in our products. We have many examples where the cost of the equipment manufactured by us today are much lower than it used to cost ten years ago, but with better technology and better service package. This has made our equipment more affordable and has substantially increased our customer base.

Neither our customers nor our competition can deny the contribution made by Schwing Stetter India in the last 12 years, to make the concreting equipment econo?mical and affordable and thereby substantially increase the usage of the equipment.

How do you look at the threat of imports from LCC? What is your take on an initiative for a third-party certification system for import of equipment?
As I said earlier, the construction equipment is highly service-oriented equipment. Unless and until proper after sales service and spare parts back up is available, they cannot be sustained in India on a long-term basis, even though the initial purchase cost of this equipment may be lower.

Secondly, we have also seen that the equipment which come from the low-cost countries, often use inferior qua?lity of components. Therefore, the performance and dura?bility of such products are questionable.

How are exports doing for Schwing Stetter?
Schwing Stetter India was predominantly selling its products only within India and a few neighbouring coun?tries like Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, too. How?ever, Schwing Stetter India will shortly be supplying equipment to the East Asian countries, which will increase export revenue in the years to come.

Schwing Stetter has registered an enviable growth and to what do you attribute the success?
Besides our technology and focus on quality, our customer focus is the USP for our success. Schwing Stetter has been very lucky to have a committed and dedicated team of employees at all levels who do not compromise on the company?s core values.

Tell us about the impact of the stringent emission norms on OEMs.
The emission norms as per the international standards are bound to come in and every OEM has to be prepared for this. I do not personally look at it as a big threat.

Any more capex on the anvil?
Schwing Stetter India will keep investing on capacity expansion, branch offices, service depots, training centres, etc, as and when necessary. In 2011, we added six branch offices and six service depots. We are also in the process of expanding our production facility and a new factory is under construction. The total outlay between 2011 and 2012 is Rs 80 crore.

Is the growth story sustainable?

It is crystal clear, to reach world-class levels, infrastructure needs a tremendous boost for the next several years; this will augur well for the CE sector where most of the major players continue to upgrade capacity and widen product lines.

Putzmeister Does the Job in Vienna Tunnel

A stationary concrete pump BSA 2109 H E (later a BSA 2107 SHP E) from Putzmeister pumped concrete via a delivery line that was permanently installed in the tunnel from above ground to the arch and base carriages, which were a maximum of approximately 1,400 m away.