The East African Portland Cement Plc has resumed cement production from its own clinker, following a replacement on part of its Kiln Shell that had been dilapidated for years causing frequent downtimes.
The plant upgrade, which cost Sh0.5 billion saw the firm cut out 16 metres of its Kiln’s shell and replaced it with a new one.
According to the firm’s Managing Director Eng. Oliver Kirubai, the upgrade, which is part of the company’s recently launched five-year strategic plan that is pegged on a long-term performance driven cycle to put it back firmly on a profitability path, had been overdue and the completion of this project was a major milestone for the Company.
“We have already started producing our own Clinker after an upgrade of our Kiln. With the upgrade, we expect improved plant reliability and an output increase of almost 50%. Blue Triangle Cement will be produced in plenty and availed across the country,” said Mr. Kirubai.
He noted that the upgrade and optimal running of the plant will also lead to efficient energy consumption.
This means that the company will be able to produce it products at a cost that will allow it to avail Blue Triangle Cement to its customers at friendlier prices.
Eng. Kirubai gave an assurance to customers that the company was now fully back to operations and that Blue Triangle Cement orders will be serviced within the agreed turnaround times in line with the Customer Service Charter.
The firm’s Head of Plant Operations Eng. Stanley Irungu said that the replaced part of the Kiln will ensure constant running leading to increased clinker production.
“We have been waiting to undertake this project and now that it is done, we can guarantee continuous plant availability,” said Eng. Irungu.
He added that with optimal running, the company will be able to produce enough quality clinker to grind cement that will satisfy its market.
By Joseph Ng’ang’a
