Tokyo Cement, the manufacturers of Tokyo Superlight cellular concrete blocks, opened a state-of-the-art production plant at its Elpitiya factory recently.
It was opened by the Chairman of Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka) PLC, Dr. Harsha Cabral. Managing Director S.R. Gnanam and guests representing Tokyo Cement Group were also present.
Tokyo Cement was one of the first to introduce cellular lightweight concrete technology to Sri Lanka, at a time when it was rapidly gaining popularity in the world as the most efficient method to build, a company press release said.
With the backing of Tokyo Cement Group’s reputation and service, the market share of its concrete blocks experienced an increase within a short span of time.
With modern construction projects adopting global technologies and trends, the company invested further on this innovative technology by expanding production capacity to 100m3 per day.
The enhanced operations of the Elpitiya plant now stands ready to meet growing demands from contemporary property developers and home builders who seek maximum value in return of their investment.
Managing Director of Tokyo Cement Company (Lanka), S.R. Gnanam said, “When we introduced the cellular lightweight concrete block, the industry needed a bit of convincing about its versatility. But today, it is the structurally and economically proven choice that can successfully meet all types of construction needs.”
“We are confident about the capabilities of Tokyo Superlight block as the most innovative, efficient and environmentally conscious choice, to deliver great value to building projects both commercial or residential,” he said.
The Tokyo block is three times lighter than conventional blocks and records twice the compressive strength. It also has the inter-locking capability to help reduce mortar usage.
This is best suited for projects that demand faster building time while overcoming the shortage of skilled labour. The cement usage can be halved and save up to 50% of the labour cost making it the most efficient building material, the manufacturers claimed.
The eco-friendly, sustainable production process adopted at the Elpitiya plant gives Tokyo Superlight a carbon footprint of a mere 1/10 of the traditional clay brick and 1/7 of the cement block,making it the greener choice in construction.
The blocks also provide superior thermal and acoustic insulation while being more fire resistant, making it 30% more energy efficient compared to other building materials, the release said.