SEVAI -Cement block walls constructed are Energy efficient

Shelters constructed by SEVAI in Trichy with Cement Blocks

“SEVAI -Cement block walls constructed are Energy efficient” said B.Suda, the project coordinator of SEVAI.She further added, “In Trichy Slums, SEVAI, a Trichy based NGO had constructed shelter for fire affected victims in the recent past. In current construction scenario, concrete blocks are well-accepted masonry unit to build foundations, walls, door frames and windows, etc. A typical concrete block is equivalent to 4 bricks, thus construction is faster than with other masonry units. The mortar used is also less which results in cost saving. Concrete blocks have been extensively used in combination with conventional roofing systems like Mangalore tile roof, GI sheets, ACC sheets etc. They are also compatible with other materials like fired bricks, dressed stone and compressed earth blocks for composite wall construction. Acceptability of concrete blocks is very high in Trichy areas in simple shelters. It is a popular walling material for major qualities like low maintenance and investment for institutional and industrial buildings. The durability of a cement-based product is making concrete blocks a preferred choice in rural areas as well. Specifications and the characterizations of concrete blocks depend upon design mix and the machine used to manufacture the block. It is possible to produce construction blocks with the single machine by just changing the mould. The basic raw material is cement, fine aggregate and coarse aggregate. The mechanized compaction and vibration, gives the block high quality, inspite of the lean mix, which uses very little cement. Weight of an average concrete block is about 18kgs and these blocks are being produced in SEVAI Rural Technology centre in Trichirappalli District. The machine used in SEVAI with EcoN technology is high quality tabletop vibrator provides optimum vibration in the mix so that the ratio of cement used can be reduced substantially without compromising on the strength of the blocks. The design mix corresponding to required compressive strength is prepared using the mixer and then it is filled in the moulds, which are placed on the vibrator. The machine also compacts and consolidates the mix so that the blocks are uniform in size and attain desired physical properties. The blocks are cured for a minimum period of 14 days, before they are ready to use. On an average 600-800 blocks can be in 8 hours with 1 supervisor, 1 skilled and 6-8 unskilled workers. The advantages of this blocks are that these are Cost effective compared to other traditional walling systems, High quality – high strength, uniform size and shape, Energy efficient - Does not require any non-renewable resources for production, Environmental friendly - Utilizes wastes and local resources, Structural performance can be engineered as per application and Semi mechanized process produces high quality material and provide adequate working opportunities”.Govin