Brick- and block-making machine manufacturer Hydraform has launched two new automated block-making machines onto the South African building and construction market.

The new machines are fully automated, making them safer to operate, while also reducing labour requirements.

The first product, the new M7A2 chute and automated block-making machine, produces building material such as standard dry-stacked, interlocking blocks, suitable for load-bearing construction, boundary walling and other building purposes.

The machine includes a hydraulically operated hopper loading system, a three-phase electrical operation, a loading platform and a 300 ℓ pan mixer.

“The M7A2 interlocking block-making machine requires a workforce of only six to eight people to operate, and produces a staggering 6 000 blocks per day,” says Hydraform sales and marketing director Nazlie Dickson, adding that the machine uses a two-chamber system, operated by two separate teams.

Further, Hydraform also introduced the conventional V4 hydraulic paving and block-making machine that will only require two operators to the South African market.

A fully functional block yard using V4 machines can produce up to 9 600 blocks a day, depending on the type of block produced.

The V4 machine produces 120 drops an hour, and comprises a double vibration motor for high compaction and increased quality, a three-phase electric system fitted on a static frame and an integrated 300 ℓ pan mixer and skip chute mounted on a platform. Fitted with interchangeable moulds, the machine is ideal for medium to large block yards.

“We realised our machines could be improved to push block production for new markets and current clients. Both these machines have reduced labour requirements, which ultimately results in a more cost-effective block being produced,” says Dickson.

These products have been in the research and development phase for the past 15 months, and will add significant value to Hydraform’s existing product portfolio.

In terms of technical support, a dedicated after-sales support and training department assists clients in the effective use of the Hydraform product range, and ensures that equipment functions optimally and projects are executed successfully.

“The biggest challenge was to develop an automated machine that had the ability to work and be fixed in diverse locations – from major cities to rural areas,” Dickson notes.

“By roping in the experts on the automation and programming stages, we have managed to overcome these challenges and we now produce a simple, versatile block-making solution that, despite the use of automated technology, is easy to fix, even in remote locations.

“In our markets, construction is a key component to developing and improving the lives of people, communities and businesses. We are confident that our new products will [realise] this objective and make it easier for clients to deliver building solutions, wherever there is a need,” Dickson concludes.