The major challenge involved organising the production and logistical process in the available space; this is what we call Space Management. And furthermore, anyone taking on such a job in early 2007 and completing it in mid-2008 can attest to the fact that time was a significant issue, needing plenty of monitoring. Because the lead time was shorter than the standard for this type of industrial project, Grontmij therefore focused especially on managing this crucial factor.

A home for the process
Grontmij used Solutia's production process P&IDs (Process & Instrument Diagrams) and their knowledge of the available space to make a conceptual drawing of the production building and provide all the necessary utilities.

Grontmij then took care of the entire procurement process of tender rounds, evaluation and selection of contractors.

From plan to reality
The great challenge ultimately turned out to be how to manage the building construction. Due to the large number of parties involved and the short lead time, strong management of the construction phase was no easy job. Furthermore, the short turnaround time also meant that engineering support was essential throughout the entire phase. The trick was to quickly apply the modifications required during the planning and execution of the building work. We gave our constructability principle - in which we watch to ensure engineering practicability - the attention it required during both the engineering and construction phases.

The result ...
... is worth a look. The third Saflex(r) production extrusion line is impressive. Anyone standing in the building that is familiar with the principle of extrusion can now follow the entire process from powder to film. The exterior of the building also looks particularly modern and sharp.

The expertise and experience we gained working on this project with such tightly defined Space and Time Management parameters will be of great assistance in future projects of a similar nature.