Modern Quarrying Q1 2020

laboratory to ensure transparency and non-bias in the results. We have been monitoring this for about 18 months and the results are shocking,” explains Lekula. Continued non-performance Beton-Lab’s study involved 274 samples of 14 products from 10 different companies. The report was recently released and the findings were shared with the National Regulator of Compulsory Specifications (NRCS) and SABS, largely showing continued non-per- formance of the cement tested. Explaining the process and requirements, Lekula says the weights of the bags were checked and the EN strength testing in accordance with SANS 50197 for two, seven and 28 days was performed. The SABS prescribed uncertainty of measurement allowance of 2,5% was applied when analysing the resultant data. The results showed the inability to produce a consistent quality

Njombo Lekula, MD of PPC RSA Cement.

“When we realised the extent of non-conformance to standards, we decided to conduct quality checks on a continuous basis. Despite the fact that we have a very capable laboratory, which I consider to be one of the best in the African cement industry, we decided to engage the services of an independent

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QUARTER 1 - 2020 MODERN QUARRYING