In completing the final delivery of parts for the overhaul of the TK2 cement manufacturing operations in Tanzania, Entec saved the heaviest until last. Taking 32 weeks to construct, the 2 grinding rollers (standing in excess of 3 metres high and weighing 20 tonnes) were finally ready for collection from the manufacturers in Spain.
Overall Entec have supplied more than 3000 parts totalling $1.484m to TK2 over a 12 month period. The company managed the complete end to end supply, involving sourcing, procurement, financing and supply logistics from a total of 9 different countries, including China.
“It’s hugely satisfying to see this project through to a successful conclusion”, comments Mike Robinson, Commercial Director of Entec. “From our initial visits to site in Tanzania 18 months ago, working in collaboration with on-site teams to rationalise the parts lists, it’s great to see the final pieces delivered”.
The project also delivered one unexpected result. During the course of the contract, Entec worked closely with the primary Chinese contractor for the manufacture and installation of the cement plant. The relationship worked so well that they have now given Entec an introduction and recommendation to the other sites throughout East & West Africa that use their plant and equipment.
“We have 28 years supplying African markets, but this is the first project of this magnitude we have undertaken with a Chinese supplier. It’s about going the extra mile. We communicated with them in Mandarin and worked with them in their time zone, which meant a lot of late night and early morning conference calls, but it has paid dividends”, Gurjit Johal – Procurement Manager.
