There are many aspects to obtaining a correctly designed, accurately measured and properly modified, purpose-made product to suit a project. We supply the correct slab depths with adequate reinforcement to accommodate the design loads, cut-outs for columns or ducts and the like, and correct reinforcing steel cast into opencores to cantilever the slab, among other details. It is all about the pre-planning to ensure quality products are manufactured and delivered for your project.

Although precast hollow-core is a one-way spanning slab and can only cantilever in the direction of the span, Echo can, with the use of steel beams, create a two-way cantilever opening for stairs, roof lights, double volumes and more. Smaller openings are made in the factory. Holes for light fittings are core-drilled by the client. Talk to us upfront to plan what we can do practically. It is most important to remember that we need to install the beams, slabs and stairs using a mobile crane.

As discussed before, there are numerous elements and process flows involved in having efficient production days. Production beds are up to 130 meters long, and the production planner will attempt to plan the positions of the slabs to minimise waste of reinforcing steel and concrete. Waste of concrete and steel is recorded, and Echo attempts to minimise wastage. Records are kept of panels that end up in stock so that they can be used later on.

Echo is the forerunner in hollow-core technology with the aid of equipment manufacturers and we specialise in hollow-core. This marked the start of hollow-core in South Africa. Over the years, Echo has developed new designs and ideas concerning both the products and the equipment used. Echo has also developed precast beams and precast stairs. Our stairs are standard in size.

Echo recycles water, which is then used by the concrete saw. Concrete waste is crushed, the reinforcing is retrieved and sold as off-cuts. The crushed product can be used in products like retaining wall blocks. Many of Echo's products are reusable; for example, Echo walls use a tongue-and-groove design, which means the walls can be dismantled and used elsewhere. By offering alternative uses for the precast slabs, Echo's product lifespan has been extended.

Our business depends on client relationships, as the majority of our work is repeat business. Service is imperative in this very competitive industry. Our clients have high expectations, so we have key account managers to ensure we have a good understanding of our clients' requirements. Echo has appointed an outside company to conduct customer surveys of completed projects. Echo endeavors to sort out any problems before the client even reports them.