ERKE Group, Soilmec Journal Feb'08

Soilmec Journal

journal
Year 3
Issue no. 2/2008

Cover story
News
Soilmec network
Lean production
Focus on India

SOILMEC
PEOPLE

technology
products
know-how
communication
events

2 2008

contents
4 NEWS
Dams projects overview
8 COVER STORY
Soilmec People
12 NEW PRODUCTS
Soilmec SR-80 C

colophon 16 NEW TECHNOLOGY
SPS - Slot Pile System
Soilmec Journal – Year 3, Issue No. 2

Editorial Director: Simone Trevisani
18 NETWORK NEWS
Editor in Chief: Franco Cicognani
Coordination Director: Federico Pagliacci
22 FORWARD
Coordination: Lisa Comandini, Sara Trevisani, Paolo The importance of lean thinking
Valzania, Irene Rosano (Communication Dept. Trevi Group)
Creative Director: Piergiorgio Balestra 24 CORPORATE
Editorial staff: Sillabario srl – Milano
Pictures: Soilmec photographic archives
Published by: Communication Dept. Trevi Group
30 FOCUS ON
Printed by: Litotipografia CILS – Cesena – Italy Entering the Indian market
This journal is registrated at the Law Court of Forlì –
Italy – n° 26/2006 32 EVENTS

Ever closer to the customer
“You’ll never walk alone”… says the anthem of the Liverpool “Reds”, one of the most award-
winning and prolific titled soccer teams in the world. That’s a promise, and precise, clear and
reassuring one at that. It reminds me very much of the commitment that we in Soilmec have
made to our customers. I thought about this just recently when we were looking back over
the past three years, while preparing our forecasts for 2009. There is a strong link between the
near future and the recent past. A golden thread, a plan or a strategy that connects all of our
plans and defines Soilmec’s overall business strategy, namely, the pivotal role of the customer
and the importance of meeting “his needs”. Soilmec has no desire to limit itself to simply being
a supplier of top quality, high performance and versatile equipment that is suitable for every
possible requirement on site. Soilmec’s desire is to be there for the customer at all times, adopting
Simone Trevisani, Managing Director an approach aimed at anticipating and providing appropriate solutions for every problem, old or
new, facing those that operate in the foundations sector. Soilmec wants to stand side by side with
the customer, ever present and ready to offer overall, complete and satisfactory solutions. This is the driving force behind our geographical
presence, which is becoming ever more widespread and well organised, via the Soilmec sales network, in order to cement this nearness
to our customers. Here, therefore, is a whole range of new services designed to facilitate the execution, analysis and reporting as regards
foundation works and to guarantee support and assistance in real time. Increasingly high performance and reliable services, combined
with ever better products. In order to achieve this objective, we need to invest not only in research, but also in our internal organisation,
namely our people. This is not, however, some recent or future investment since we have been investing in the training of our men for a
number of years already. The results of this commitment are already visible, while further results will become apparent shortly, perhaps
a soon as 2009. Then we will be able to take another look at the Liverpool motto, and perhaps even translate it into our own language:
“You’ll never work alone”.
Simone Trevisani

news
The Wolf wall contract awarded
Creek Dam
Barrier

news
Trevi Group consolidates its position
in the American market for the consolidation
4 of large-scale infrastructure
thanks to an important contract recently awarded to TreviIcos

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Nashville District, announced that a very
big contract has been awarded to TreviIcos Soletanche JV. TreviIcos – the
Trevi Group U.S. company – is the sponsor of the joint venture in which it has a
50% interest. Scope of the work is the installation of a concrete barrier
wall at Wolf Creek Dam in Russell County, Kentucky. Work is expected to begin
this fall with a contract performance period of four years. The concrete barrier wall
is the primary element of the Wolf Creek Dam Seepage Rehabilitation Project.
The wall will be a combination of secant piles and rectangular panels installed
through the earthen embankment to a depth of about 275 ft. It will go deep into
the foundation rock to effectively cut off seepage through the limestone. The wall
will extend eastward along the upstream embankment from the concrete section
to the right abutment, a length of about 4,200 ft.
Mr Stefano Trevisani, Trevi Managing Director, has declared that this award is a major
achievement for Trevi Group: «The contract is one of most important in our 50
years company history – says Mr. Trevisani –. Trevi Group received in the last few
months from USACE two other contracts referring to the extention of Tuttle Creek
Dam Rehabilitation Program and to maintenance works for Herbert Hoover Dike.
These acquisitions place Trevi Group in a strong position with reference
to relevant future projects with USACE related to infrastructure works.
Trevi Group is strongly supported in its USA activities by major American financial
institutions. We are pleased of the cooperation with Soletanche-Bachy, a company
with whom we have a long tradition of partnering».

Drillmec to supply the Iraqi Drilling Company
Signed contracts in Iraq for drilling equipment
Trevi Group, through its subsidiary Drillmec Spa, has signed large contracts with the
Ministry of Oil – Iraqi Drilling Company for the supply of 14 conventional oil & gas
drilling rigs of between 500 and 2,000 HP. The supply of this equipment is part of
A 2,000 HP conventional plant. the strategic plan of the Iraqi government aimed at increasing oil and gas extraction
to boost the country’s economy. Drillmec Spa won an international tender for this
prestigious contract, thereby emphasising again its growing role as a highly qualified
player in the oil sector. The contract provides for delivery of the aforementioned
equipment within 13 months.

news
The Tuttle Creek Dam
Repair and reinforcement works 5

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has
awarded Trevi Group, through its American
subsidiary, TreviIcos South, an extension to
the contract to repair and reinforce the Tuttle
Creek Dam near Kansas City, Missouri,
against earthquake damage. The contract
extension, the outcome of the excellent
A mixing plant of TreviIcos.
results achieved in the first phase of the
project, is a partnering for Tuttle Creek Dam
between the owner and Trevi to find and adopt
the best technological and equipment solutions
to the geotechnical problems. The contract
extension is proof of the faith that the USACE,
the most important civil engineering contractor
in the world, has in Trevi Group, particularly
in the repair and reinforcement of dams.
TreviIcos was awarded as “Contractor of the
year award” for the 2004 from the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers South Atlantic Division, and
recently with the “Safety Award 2008” for one
year without incident from the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers Kansas City District.

news
The Herbert Hoover Dam
6 Seepage cut-off wall

The U.S. Department of the Army,
Jacksonville District Corps of Engineers,
Florida, has just issued a notice of award
for Herbert Hoover Dam seepage cut-
off wall in favor of TreviIcos South Inc., an
American subsidiary of Trevi Group. This
contract, to be executed in 18 months, is
the third task order issued as part of the five
years long project for the Rehabilitation
program of the Herbert Hoover Dam. The
remaining portion of the works will be
awarded in the future with further task
orders to the successful bidder among
these three companies. «It’s a great
achievement for our company and Trevi
Group – says Ricardo Petrocelli, President
of TreviIcos – that will position the Group
in a favorable position in the field of the
dam rehabilitation program, one of the
top priority among the infrastructure
spending of the Federal Government in
the upcoming years».

The internal plaza of Barwa
new business center in Qatar.

news
The Barwa Financial District
Swissboring foundation works for a prestigious 7
business center project in Qatar
The Trevi Group, through its subsidiary Swissboring Qatar Wll, has been awarded the
contract for the foundations of the prestigious Barwa Financial District by Barwa
Real Estate. This follows a preliminary contract, commenced in the first half of this year;
the contract will take about nine months to complete. The Barwa Financial District, to be
built using the best and most environmentally friendly technology available, is expected to
become the business centre of Qatar and one of the leading centres in the Middle East, with
the presence of banks, insurance companies, important financial and industrial companies,
as well as leading consulting companies, and will offer full-circle solutions to the business
world. This award further confirms the quality of the project technology, the excellence and
the degree of internationalization that Trevi Group has attained in the field of foundation
engineering. In this regard, it is worth mentioning the recent contracts acquired in Algeria
for the extension of the LNG plant at Skidda (client Sonatrach) and for the East-West
motorway (client the Japanese business consortium Cojaal). These contracts are in addition
Project view of new Barwa Financial
District’s towers. to those recently awarded for the extension of the second line of the Algiers metro and the
consolidation work to be carried out on the dams of Kissir, Cheliff and Boussiaba on behalf
of the State Entity, ANBT.

The human factor is the secret of Soilmec’s success. Personal
attention builds up client loyalty, strength and continuity for the

People
Soilmec company, creating added value – not only in the technological
sense – for the clients. Nine interviews, nine stories to be heard in
order to understand how much impact the ‘human factor’ has
had on the development and growth of Soilmec. We asked
different people within the production facility of Soilmec questions
concerning three aspects of the life of the company and also life
from within the company. This was aimed at highlighting the

INTERNAL PRODUCTION
Luciano Vernocchi
I’m 42 and I’ve been working at Soilmec for 27
years. I started when I was a boy and I’ve seen a Massimo Milandri
remarkable growth, both in terms of the working and Luciano Vernocchi.
environment, which has improved in order to
respond to the new working demands, and in
terms of relations with the clients. And I see
cover story Soilmec’s future as equally positive: we’re trying the clients themselves. This is an advantage
to move with the times, always in command and which comes from being part of the Group:
without letting anyone overtake us. The decision through Trevi there’s an immediate return of

8 to expand the plant and adopt a cutting edge
assembly process (lean production – Ed.) which
information, a daily exchange of experiences
which makes a difference. As regards team-
is less low tech and more organised, is a move working, it is a crucial factor and involves
in this direction: it reduces production times and all sectors, with colleagues extremely willing
improves quality in the client’s favour. Today to help people integrate thanks to their
the people in the company are young and very mentoring of young colleagues and making
closely-knit, even though it wasn’t easy at the their own knowledge and experience available.
beginning replacing all those experienced people Rather than an anecdote, one aspect of our
who retired at the same time. After a period when daily work comes to mind: the attention paid
we were caught on the hop, the relationships to the client is our burden and delight. This can
with these young people improved and now be seen in the effectiveness requests are dealt
there’s more enthusiasm, mutual openness and with of last minute modifications concerning a
team spirit, all factors which bring added value machine that is already in production.
to the production and are perceived by the client,
because working in harmony allows us to deliver
complete machines which have fewer faults.

Massimo Milandri
After two years working at Soilmec, I see
the company as a complex, dynamic plant,
which is still evolving with new projects being
developed. A system which is evolving rapidly
and which requires a great commitment in
order to manage the change and to support
it, from both a logistics and a human point of
view, with new staff to be found, trained and
used to the best advantage. The interchange
with the outside world of the client helps us
to absorb the requests for innovation, which
are then passed on to production and back to

real added value of service to the client: how they see the
company ‘from the inside’, from the point of view of someone with
a long working experience and someone who is new. They also see the
company’s results and the next steps in the future development; the
daily life of the company microcosm at the plant and in relations
with the client; the importance of teamwork between the “old”
and “young”. The result is a mosaic which neatly illustrates the
industrial, professional and human history of Soilmec, to which
everyone has contributed in his or her own individual way.

EXTERNAL PRODUCTION
Massimo Vernocchi
The results speak for themselves: when I arrived
at Soilmec 18 years ago they produced about 80 Biagio Fagioli
machines, now they make between 600 and 700. and Massimo Vernocchi.
So there’s been a technological change, but most
of all a change in the organisation. Looking at
Soilmec, I see a company which is successful in
with basic knowledge but they aren’t able to cover story
advance alone and they always need mentoring.

Biagio Fagioli
In the last few years we’ve had a radical change 9
in the organisation and in the image of Soilmec:
now we have to think about organizing the
departments, professional training of the personnel
as regards the outside world and arranging open
days. I’ve experienced all of this in the last few
years and that shows a great evolution compared
to the past. We still have work to do as regards
future improvements and consolidation of the
good results we’ve achieved, also as regards the
growth in production; the investments made in
the plants will give us a boost starting from the
markets all over the world: it’s difficult to foresee manufacturing which we now carry out externally.
what could happen during a world recession such The change also concerns the daily life at Soilmec:
as we’re seeing now, but I don’t think we will at the beginning a lot more of us were “pioneers”,
suffer any particular repercussions. we worked more with prototypes than with the
The change has obviously also involved people: standard or ready designed machines. Today
there are a lot more young people in the company thanks to the new production process we no
than there were a few years ago; these are longer produce machine by machine, but on the
perhaps more difficult to “place” at work, but production line with subgroups which are already
some of them stand out and have what it takes. painted and ready to assemble; we are now able to
The company is relying on them and offering them carry out commercial planning with the machines
the opportunity to grow, using this human capital which will be produced the following year. We are
to the best advantage beyond the technological living through a great improvement of the company,
aspects: they must possess a certain technological also in terms of safety in the work environment. We
knowledge, be reliable and well trained in the didn’t grow alone: our suppliers has been growing
specifics of their job. Studying alone isn’t enough, with us, recognising Soilmec’s leadership role.They
there’s a further step to be made in their evolution are very fond of everything that we’re doing, also as
within our sector: young people arrive at Soilmec regards human relations; we’re a team.

FORLÌ PRODUCTION
Mauro Palumbo
I’ve been at Soilmec for 12 years and in my
opinion the greatest strength of Soilmec and
the whole Group is the ownership, the Trevi
family. The three founding brothers, Davide
and his brothers and the children are all within
the structure of the Group in order to carry on
the tradition, the continuity and keep everyone
Mauro Palumbo. motivated. I see a positive future, because the

TESTS profound evolution from all points of view. They
Ivano Comandini say that we’re now on the crest of a wave; I
When I started, in January 1963, there were think that to get there we have to aim higher.
very few of us. I worked in the workshop This is Soilmec’s strength, the spure to always
and then abroad, delivering and repairing be the first, so I think that in future, market
machines. Now I take care of the testing in permitting, we’ll be speeding along even faster
close contact with the internal production to because there’s a constant evolution, from all
achive the finished, fully functioning product. points of view.
cover story Soilmec has grown both technologically and
in terms of its staff: previously a new machine
came out every two months. Now we work

10 on pre-assembled parts and there are new
young people in the teams. Mine is a typical
case of extreme attachment to the company
and to its values: when I got my retirement
I stopped work for 6 weeks, but then I came
back again and now I’m still working in order
to train, as well as I can, the young people
who will continue doing my job. Of course we
no longer talk in the local romagnolo dialect
in the company. The new arrivals come from
different parts of Italy and from abroad; for
most of them this is their first job, and they
listen to those who have more experience,
they’re willing to learn, and those who are
really interested in the job want to get on. I The added value, to the client’s advantage, is
think that the added value of a management very good and skilled from a technological point
that works well, also on a human level, is of view, and is in constant evolution. I also take
important not only for the client but also for care of testing and I never would have imagined
those working at Soilmec: I was very pleased that we’d advance so far. The future is all about
when an American Soilmec Technician, who electronics: if the client asks for something
had spent a week here studying 8 years ago, that was inconceivable up to a few years ago,
still remembered me and his experience here. you’re able to supply it, providing the assistance
as well as the product. This transformation is Filippo Viroli and Ivano Comandini.

Filippo Viroli reflected in the human environment too: when I
Over these last 10 years, Soilmec has given me a started there were still the “old ones”, and more
lot, helping me to grow also on a personal level, individualism. In the last 5-6 years the company
in terms of collaboration with others, with the has been repopulated with a high percentage
chance to exchange views with all the people of young people. Today there’s more of a family
who work there. And we’ve grown a lot since atmosphere, people are more willing to co-
I started. In the last few years there’s been a operate and to work in teams.

new generation that has taken over has done much ‘leaner’ and supported by external
so very well with a percentage increase of 40 structures, all within the Group, while from a
to 50%. Technological development is very human point of view the internal climate is
important but so is production, which is very positive: we’ve always encouraged dialogue
strong at Soilmec, (Soilmec is not simply an between the people: if you work in a healthy
assembler or seller), as well as the employees environment where you’re happy you also
who are trained to know how to assemble give back more. This has always been our
and test a machine, from the beginning to trademark: we’ve moved and we’re moving in
the end. From the company’s point of view, that direction. And this is an added value that
compared to when I started, it’s definitely the client is very well aware of.

PROTOTYPES
Ermes Monti
I started at Soilmec in 1984, at the age of 16,
and the company has changed a lot since then: Bruno Scarpellini
and Ermes Monti.
machines used to be created from nothing, using
pig iron, and now it’s an industrialised process,
components are pre-assembled and we only
have to do the final assembly and testing. We
still create prototypes from nothing, with great today have a very different mentality; I don’t cover story
ingenuity and craftsmanship, but even in large- see the same attachment to the company as in
The testimonies scale production there’s still a very strong personal my time – there’s a continuous turnover. With
given by People
working day
astuteness in the know-how we have about the
work. How can we pass on this knowledge to
them the relationship has changed, there’s full
collaboration. We “old ones” wanted to grow 11
the young people? It’s a question I ask myself. In and to believe in this company. Another essential
by day in the my opinion there’s a great relationship between aspect concerns the importance of the ‘human
the young and the old; everyone is going forward value’ of a person. This includes both the ability
company clearly
together. It’s a bit more of an effort with the to build relationships between the employees
demonstrate young ones, but, contrary to what I thought, a and the boss, and the fact of having put safety
that human lot of them are smart and are willing to work, at work above all else. A few years ago a new
to learn. At Soilmec, there’s a very healthy plant manager started here, who was head of
factor is the atmosphere on a human level; the Trevisani production. We immediately became friends.
secret of Soilmec family has always maintained this, despite the This episode is a sign of the desire of Soilmec to
growing numbers. It’s a relationship which has maintain direct contact with the workers, with
success
remained constant over time, and which has those working in the workshop.
allowed us to obtain the great results we have
achieved on the market.

Bruno Scarpellini
Soilmec has never stopped, not even in
moments of crisis, setting up radical and
innovative changes. I can’t but help speak
highly of the company, having a working
experience which started in 1976 and which
has now almost reached the end. Their great
merit is to have always allowed people to grow
within the company: I started with a junior high-
school diploma and yet I became a foreman and
now I’m head of the prototypes department.
Having the opportunity to grow has been very
important: this fact is still valid now but you
have to really get down to work. Young people

Soilmec SR-80 C
New drilling rig
for LDP and CFA

new products
With the new SR-80 C Soilmec has reached its target
to complete the range of drilling rigs for large diameter
12 piles and remarkable depths

After the great success earned by the SR-70, SR-90 and SR-100 introduced since 2005,
Soilmec offers to the demanding foundation market the possibility to choose
The new SR-80 C drilling rig
a new rig jointing in the same machine the experience dued to SR Soilmec by Soilmec.
series to that one of Caterpillar. In fact SR-80 C is a perfect mix
of CAT base machine turret (345 C) with Soilmec standard rotary.
CAT C13 engine generates the considerable rated power of 328
kW at 1800 rpm with that important guarantee of reliability,
quality and durability that have made CAT famous around the
world. Noteworthy are the performances of SR-80 C. It’s possible
to drill large bored piles with a maximum diameter of
2,000 mm, at a depth of about 80 m, while in case of CFA
(continuous flight auger) the rig has been conceived for piles up
to 1,200 mm at a depth of 25 m.
The multifunctionality of SR-80 C is testified by the possibility to be
Soilmec SR-80 C fitted with crowd system made by whether winch (13,000 mm stroke
Rated power – standard) or cylinder (6,500 mm stroke – optional). In alternative
328 kW at 1800 rpm to the standard spin off rotary, the customer can select
Max pile diameter the innovative shifting gear rotary, with a mechanical
2,000 mm (kelly version) 3 high speed gear. This new solution allows to have a nominal
1,200 mm (CFA)
Max pile depth
torque range that varies from 292-132 kNm, that permits an higher
77 m (kelly version) production in terms of m/h and better rotation-to-torque ratio, with
24 m (CFA) a max drilling speed that varies from 27 to 107 rpm. As for the other

Detail of Soilmec SR-80 C base
machine turret.

Soilmec machines based on a CAT turret, the winches are positioned in the lower part of
the mast, in front of the cabin, to permit to the operator a constant check. The main winch
has a maximum pull of 260 kN and a speed of 75 m/min, while the auxiliary winch has a
maximum pull of 100 kN and a speed of approximately 65 m/min. The machine can also be
arranged with a free fall service winch with 80 kN nominal line pull.
new products
Soilmec SP-110
New crawled grouting pump 13

The Soilmec SP-110 is a grouting pump driven by a Deutz engine with a maximum
power output of 124 kW at 2,100 rpm. The pump unit, which has been designed and
built entirely by Soilmec, has a maximum delivery rating of 110 m3/h at a maximum
pressure of 50 bar. The feeder hopper, with mixer unit, has a capacity of 600 lt. The
SP-110’s other construction features include: electrical proximity pumping inversion
system; force pump specifically dedicated to controlling the inversion of the “S” valve;
easy access via the washing tank for the purposes of maintenance and replacement of
pumping unit gaskets; soundproofing cowlings.

Soilmec’s crawled unit concrete pump
at work.

Soilmec SM-18
The next generation
of micro-drilling rigs

new products
A clear response to all job-sites’ requirements
14 by means of a performing, quick and
multifunctional drilling rig
Soilmec presents SM-18, a unique drilling rig in the field of the micropiles multipurpose
rigs. SM-18 was developed from the fusion of Trevi Group job-site experience and Soilmec
technological research, thus perfectly responding to the needs of professionals worldwide.
Soilmec SM-18 offers higher performances: greater drilling depths thanks to higher hoist
force (more than 11 ton), and engine power totally transmitted to the tool through a rotary
with a power capacity of 160 HP. Soilmec SM-18 is faster: load-sensing control system on
hydraulic power; over 500 l/min oil flow given by twin piston pumps; higher speed on any
drilling movements. Last but not least, Soilmec SM-18 is safer: the control of all operation
is hydraulic and proportional; remote control board of each functions for finding the best
working position in any condition; noise reduction thanks to engine speed set on only 1,900
rpm; innovative emergency stop for drilling functions, safety light for active drilling mode,
telescopic counterweight and telescopic stabilizers for increased stability, easier maintenance
c/w faster fault checks.

Remote control board
of Soilmec SM-18.

new products
“Cougar” SC-120/H-8 Hydromill
Malaga and Naples, two towns where Soilmec hydromill 15
found themselves facing entirely different situations
The equipment used on both these construction sites was the Soilmec H-8 hydromill with a
maximum drilling torque of 87 kNm for cutter, mounted on a Soilmec SC-120 crane (120 t
category) in the “Cougar” configuration. In this configuration, the machines cut panels with
a dimension of 2.800x800 mm; the hydromill’s capacity in this configuration is equivalent
to 58 m of depth for maximum thicknesses of up to 1,400 mm. The DMS (Drilling Mate
System) developed by Soilmec and installed on all the products in the range, in other words
the system used for the real time monitoring of all the operating parameters of both the
equipment and the production process, includes a dual-axis positioning sensor (triple-axis
version optional extra) that controls the geometry of the panel depending on the depth.
Vertical corrections are possible thanks to the following: mobile flaps installed on the main
body, variable rotation speed on the excavation discs and the patented inclination system
for each excavation disc that ensures optimal orientation along three main axes. In Malaga,
the Soilmec hydromill was used to create the support buttresses for a shopping mall in the
harbour area. The stratigraphy of the area revealed that, under the surface and subsequent
layer, varying in thickness from 2 to 4 metres, there was a layer of gravel and erratic chalky
The new Soilmec “Cougar” SC-120/H-8 sandstone deposits (a type of conglomerate sandstone), characterised by a resistance to
hydromill at work in Naples.
compression and lateral free expansion in excess of 1,000 kg/cm2. Furthermore, the layer
of rock layer to be excavated was often found to be at a depth in excess of 10 m. The SC-
120 “Cougar” hydromill is currently in use in Naples for the construction of a station for
the underground railway and, more specifically for the creation of “T”-shaped panels of
1,200x2,800 mm and up to 40-45 m in depth. In this case, the stratigraphy is characterised
by silty, sandy soils covering the yellow Neapolitan tuff.

new technology
SPS - Slot Pile System
Soilmec has designed a new jig for repairing dams,
16 developed using the experience they acquired through
an important project in New Zealand

Repairing and installing safety measures at the Arapuni dam in New Zealand was
a project that was among the most technologically important in the field of civil
engineering. In particular, the work performed by Trevi, by the main contractor Brian
Perry Civil, called for a series of precision drilling tasks. The slot cavities created were
then filled with concrete, which formed a waterproof diaphragm under the dam. The
implementation procedures for the drilling had unique characteristics, and the task was
achieved thanks to the competent support offered by Trevi during the process of defining
the project and their fundamental contribution was made possible by their ability to
count on the most advanced and sophisticated drilling devices, through Soilmec.
On the basis of the experience they acquired at the Arapuni dam, Soilmec Research and

Arapuni Dam: preparatory works.

Arapuni Dam: drill adjacent hole
with guide in adjacent hole.

Arapuni Dam: check slot dimensions
and continuity across slot.

Development began a project for specialized excavation tools to create “guided secant
new technology
piles” to be used in dam repair projects. In short, the tool calls for the insertion of a down-
the-hole rotary drill and a guided system that allows reactive control of the direction
of the excavation. The specifics of the solution consists in an excavation device that is 17
supported in the hole during operation through a lifting mechanism and that includes an
exchange motor. The opening can be partially filled with excavation fluid, and the detritus
Focus on technology evacuation system uses reverse circulation so that the excavation debris is transported to
Specialized excavation tool the surface through a flexible tube that is wound up in a special coiler. The tubes and the
To be used in dam repairing electrical cables necessary for operation and control of the unit are controlled in the same
projects
way, including measurements and corrections relative to its position.
Insertion of a down-the-hole
rotary drill With respect to the solutions developed and applied at the Arapuni project, the new jig
Reactive control of the decreases excavation times since it is no longer necessary to insert drill pipes, which are
excavation direction
replaced by tubing, allowing monitoring of excavation parameters and reactive control
of the gradients.
Project sketch of new equipment.

network news
Soilmec Deutschland
18 company’s start up

The Soilmec Deutschland GmbH has been
founded in May 2008 with the idea to provide
a perfect technical assistance and spare parts
service in the North European market. The
world’s most important drilling rig producers
are settled either in Italy or in Germany. For
this reason it was a strategic decision for a
market leading Italian company as Soilmec to
possess also a branch in the German-language
region. The headquarter in Drolshagen – in the
center of Germany – has a covered space of
more than 3.000 square meters which means
a huge capacity for workshops and spare part
stocks. Furthermore it is even suitable to build
up a future production unit. With a German
and English speaking staff of actually six
people, Soilmec Deutschland is able to serve
the 12 units already sold in Austria, Denmark,
Germany, Netherlands and Scandinavia.
The team of Soilmec Deutschland: from the left, Massimo Valenti, Engelbert Bieker,
Kathrin Bieker, Rainer Obert, Alex Schmelzer.

network news
Soilmec Australia
“Newborn” downunder 19

Blue bow for Soilmec’s “newborn”: on
October 1st 2008 Soilmec’s Australian
branch was officially inaugurated. The
new branch, called Soilmec Australia,
strengthens the company’s presence
in the Oceania area and enriches
a worldwide network which now
accounts for more than 70 distribution
and assistance points in more than 90
countries. The new Company’s seat
shall be in Sydney (see in the pictures:
the staff headed by Mark A. Williams,
the Area Manager, Stefano Cordella
and Soilmec’s Administrative Manager,
Marco Casadei). The new branch’s Managing Director is Mark A. Williams who has The team of Soilmec Australia.
been representing Soilmec’s brand in Australia since 2000 and has now enthusiastically
accepted the Head Office’s invitation to give birth to a new branch. The new structure
consists of a staff of 4 mechanics who will be relying on a workshop located at Sydney’s
seat and on 4 movable units to safisfy the needs of a very vast territory.

The team of Erke Dis Ticaret Ltd.
network news
Soilmec-Erke,
20 20 years’ partnership in Turkey
A great announcement
There is a vast number of projects in Turkey involving Soilmec After 20 years of friendship,
Mr. A.F. El Didi and Mr. H. Kaya,
machines and there will always be a demand for these machines
who are the oldest and most
in the Turkish market. Founded in 1987, Erke Dis Ticaret Ltd. is one of the most successful dealers of Soilmec,
experienced companies in its market, either in sale and service. The company handles its made an exclusive agreement for
a cooperation in the Gulf Area.
sale and service activities through its own offices in Istanbul and in Ankara thanks to a really
According to such agreement, Mr.
experienced and dedicated staff. Erke main activity is the marketing of foundation machinery, H. Kaya in behalf of Erke Co. will be
together with all equipments and attachments which are necessary for ground engineering. responsible for Turkish contractors
who are working in the Gulf Area.
Erke is the official dealer of Soilmec machinery in Turkey, as other seven world famous brands Mr. El Didi, Soilmec Gulf Chairman,
in ground engineering. Erke is also acting as consultant to those companies which are looking said that the cooperation with Mr.
for solutions in the ground engineering. Thanks to its 21 years experience Erke can suggest to Kaya and Erke will lead to even
more success through Turkish
its own customers and to anyone else operating in this market, various and different solutions contractors.
to their problems. Erke has very strong relationships throughout the international market
and this is consenting them the possibility to accomplish the Turkish market with the latest Mr. H. Kaya and Mr. A.F. El Didi
after the sign agreement.
developments in its market. Any innovation and development in the sector can be followed
through Erke. Service is sustained by experienced personnel, proposing and executing the
most appropriate solution.
Erke is fully aware of the Trevi Group’s greatness and philosophy, is also fully aware of the
fact that Erke is a strong member of Soilmec’s family. A distinguished Soilmec agent, which
by the way has been elected “number one distributor” for several years, and proud to be
part of Trevi Group. Everybody in this field knows that Trevi Group and Soilmec are the most
important actors in this business. Their worldwide network will always support Erka. The wide
knowledge and experience of Trevi Group together with Soilmec’s technology and after sales

support are their major advantage either in marketing and servicing. Being a part of this
Group, which is the worldwide leading company both in foundation works and machinery
manufacturing, gives Erke a great advantage in foundation equipment, adapting solutions to
Soilmec’s drilling rig at work in Turkey. the market and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Turkey is a booming country for Soilmec equipment and machinery. There are two main
sectors which involves Soilmec equipment: hydroelectric power plants and main infrastructure
investments like metros, tunnels, highways, bridges, etc. The most important sector for Soilmec
machinery in this moment is the small and medium sized hydroelectric power plants. There
are almost 1,278 projects of this kind which have already been planned. 72 have already
been started, and Soilmec drilling rigs, mini piling rigs and hydromills are widely used for all
those projects. Since these projects will be going on for years, its sure that even more Soilmec
machineries and equipments will be requested by the market. Another important sector is the
infrastructure investments. At the moment one of the world greatest infrastructure project –
the Bhosphourus Tunnel – is under construction. Together with this tunnel, 16 new stations
will be built and either on Asian side and European side 26 km of new railroad are under
construction. Only this great project needs 10 Soilmec machinery for piling, anchoring, jet
grouting and diapghram walling. Beside this great project, in Istanbul, at the moment there
are 3 different metro projects going on. In all these 3 projects Soilmec machines are being
used and will be used. Also in other Turkish cities like Ankara, Izmir and Adana similar projects
are going on and will go on for a very long time.
network news
Soilmec at Conmex
Dubai (UEA), 20-23 October 2008 21

Soilmec took part to Conmex, the most important trade fair for the construction industry
equipments in Middle East. The construction sector in the Middle East is yet to reach its full
potential. It is estimated that currently projects worth US$ 4 billion are being announced
every week. In the coming years, construction activity in the region will reach astronomical
proportions with subsequent rise in demand for related machinery and equipments.

Pictures of Soilmec stand at
Conmex in Dubai (UEA).

Soilmec Lean Production

The importance
of lean thinking
forward

22

The desire to ensure ever-higher quality standards, combined
with the need to optimise production times has driven Soilmec to invest
heavily in its productive and organisational structure. As a result, a new organizational
model has been adopted, inspired by the “Lean Enterprise” system. This is a medium-long
term strategy that leads to improved efficiency by means of a drastic reduction in the
non-value generated by company activities. The term “Lean Enterprise” is used to define a
cultural approach to ongoing improvement, involving the entire production delivery chain.
A philosophy driven by the internal customer, whereby downstream employees/workers are
viewed as customers of their colleagues upstream. This creates a customer driven “pull”
system throughout the production system, all the way through to product design team and
the managers who decide company strategy. The Lean system, and more specifically Lean
Production, is an application of the production system developed within the Toyota Company
(more specifically the TPS, or Toyota Production System), which managed to overcome
the limitations of the mass production system (the one adopted years ago by Henry Ford
and Alfred Sloan). The cornerstone of so-called “lean thinking” is represented by ongoing
research and the elimination of inefficiency so as to produce more with fewer resources
and greater quality control. The systematic elimination of inefficiency is made possible by the Lean production principles
pursuance and implementation of the 5 principles that constitute the reference framework 1. Define the value
2. Identify the value flow
for the activities involved in reviewing company processed. The starting point in the hunt for
3. Make the “flow” flow
examples of inefficiency (first principle) is the identification of that which actually
4. Get the customer pull
creates value. Thereafter (second principle), establish the flow of value, which, in the the company’s value
case of a specific product, includes the entire range of activities required in order to convert 5. Seek perfection

the raw materials into a finished product. Examination of the value flow enables us to identify
any points of inefficiency in the process. Having accurately identified the value flow for a
specific product or family of products and having re-designed it, eliminating all of the useless
activities by mapping the flows, the next step, in terms of the third principle, is to make sure
that the remaining value-adding activities are arranged in a logical flow.
The “Lean thinking” concept completely overturns the traditional way of thinking according
to lots, functions and departments. As a matter of fact, tasks can almost always be performed
more effectively when the product is processed seamlessly from raw material through to
finished product. Once the company (or more generally speaking, the organisation) has
defined the value of the product (to the customer), identified the value flow and finally
eliminated any obstacles, and thus any waste, thereby ensuring that the process flows
without any interruptions, then the time has come to allow the customer (fourth principle) to
“pull” the process (namely the value flow) along: by definition, the customer “pulls the
company’s value”. This entails acquiring the ability to design, plan and produce only that
which the customer wants, precisely when he/she wants it. The fifth principle is all about
seeking perfection. This final principle may appear to be somewhat presumptuous
and should therefore rather be interpreted as continuous improvement (Kaizen). In fact,
if the first four principles are properly applied, then previously unthinkable synergies are

forward

23

created, which start up an ongoing process of reduction of times, of space and of costs, also
establishing precise moments for the ad-hoc inter-departmental teams to attempt to resolve
problems in weeks (the so-called “Kaizen”). The implementation of the Lean Production
system within Soilmec involved, above all, the operations area, which was then followed by
production, then the supply chain and then back to the design area. In terms of results, what
was achieved on average was improved efficiency, a reduction in machine assembly
times, an increase in production capacity and an improvement in the level of logistics
services in terms of feeding materials from the stores to the assembly lines, thus reducing
the non-availability of materials.

corporate
Soilmec Headquarter expansion
Soilmec is projecting the enlargement of its own offices
24 and manufacturing plant sites. Work in progress for
the new production unit of 10.000 square meters
In line with the strong growth which has characterised its recent industrial history, Soilmec
has set up an important project for improving its production facility. It is a
complete renovation project which will change considerably the overall look of the Soilmec
headquarters in Cesena by adopting innovative architectural solutions. In fact, alongside
the building and architectural works, the street furniture on the premises (green areas,
Internal view of new Soilmec’s
walkways, lighting, entranceways, etc.) will also be examined in order to improve the plant working space.
internal accessibility. The first measures
for expanding production capacity are
already in progress, and these will be
followed by optimisation of the logistics
area and the internal road system, the
renewal of all the executive offices and
the reception area (more than 3,000
square metres), and the expansion of
the canteen and other adjoining areas.
The whole operation should take a
couple of years, with completion due
by the end of 2010.
As regards the expansion of the areas
available for the production, work
is currently in progress at the centre
of the Soilmec headquarters on the

construction of a new 10,000 square metre
A complete
structure, earmarked mainly for the assembly
renovation project of large tonnage machines. These will all be
which will change ready at the beginning of next summer. This
considerably important investment forms part of the general
the overall look reorganisation process of the production
(already started following the principles of Lean
of the Soilmec
Production: see article on page 22) in order to
headquarter adapt the space available, improve the services,
in Cesena assure the final quality of the products and, of
course, improve production potential. The new
structure, just over 14 metres high and divided
into 4 bays, each equipped with 2 overhead cranes weighing 40 tonnes each, will be built Project view (above and beside)
of new Soilmec headquarter:
according to highly innovative criteria which enhance both the quality of the working officres and manufacturing sheds.
environment and general safety. To guarantee good natural light and ventilation for the
assembly workers, the roof of the premises has been made using 1,400 square metres of
skillion (shed) roof, while heating and cooling will be guaranteed by a geothermal system
made up of 80 bore holes driven to a depth of up to 120 metres.

corporate

25

Soilmec and total quality
Soilmec has been selected, together with Quality (EOQ). For many years the Galgano
a number of other outstanding Italian Group has promoted this initiative, bringing
companies, to participate in the National together public and privately owned Italian
Quality Campaign, an important annual companies operating in all of the various
event to promote the strategic role that product sectors that have chosen Quality
Quality plays in the Country’s overall as being a key factor in building success,
economic system.The initiative was originally involving society as a whole and the market
launched back in 1989 by the three major itself. Since 1995, the National Quality
Japanese, American and European Quality Campaign has formed part of the European
Associations, namely the Japanese Union Quality Week, a campaign launched by the
of Scientists and Engineers (JUSE), the European Union to encourage member
American Society for Quality Control, now States to hold a whole series of promotional
known as the American Society for Quality events during November of each year, aimed
(ASQ), and the European Organization for at spreading a Culture of Quality.

corporate
Nim-A begins life
26 A new method for tunnelling in difficult soils

NIM-A (NIM is the acronym of New Italian
Method) is an alliance between Rocksoil, a
firm of the former minister Pietro Lunardi,
Trevi and Soilmec of the Trevi Group. The
aim of the alliance will be the excavation
tunnels in difficult soil conditions in China,
India, the Russian Federation, Brazil
and Lithuania, though the geographic
destination will be decided case by
case by the directive commission of the
Consortium. According to the different
client’s needing, the following services can
be provided: tunnelling design; technology
know-how transfer; special equipment
supply; tunnelling construction.

pulse soul brain

motion power
Launched during the 2006 “Open House”, “Elements concept” has undergone some minor
graphic restyling. The five colours that were associated with the elements of Pulse, Soul, Brain,
Motion and Power have changed hue. A minor graphic update that nevertheless retains the
original meaning and colour association with the various departments. Pulse is still associated
with the Sales Department and network; Soul with the Marketing & Advertising Department
as well as Customer care and After-sales services; Brain with Research & Development,
Motion with the Technology Department and Power with the Production Department.
corporate
The Elements change colour
Updating the concept 27

Cover for Soilmec SR-70
Business Class, the official magazine of
Ukraine National Airlines, dedicated August
cover to Ukraine tycoon Volodymyr Prodivus.
A model of Soilmec SR-70 is shining on the
desk of the businessman.

Trevi Group
on You Tube
Is already on line a new space on You
Tube about Trevi Group. On this site you
can see our corporate’s videos and other
general information. To enter the site:
http://it.youtube.com/user/trevigroup.

Soilmec in action at...
Foundation work with
SR-100 hydraulic rotary rig
in Las Vegas

A Soilmec R-930
used for the
foundation works
of new bridge
between Bronx and
Manhattan, near
Willis Avenue Bridge,
in New York

click on site

28

Foundation works with
Condon Johnsons’s R-930 in
R-312/200 for the highway bridge
CFA working on the new City
expansion project in Utah
Creek Project in downtown
Salt Lake City

A Soilmec drilling unit plays
as a champion on the field
of Fenerbache Stadium
in Istanbul

Highway consolidation
works with PSM-1350
in Manchester, little
town near Boston

click on site

29

A SR-100 at work on a
offshore platform near
Brisbane

Two Soilmec machines –
R-724 and R-625 –
in full action in Dubai

Entering
the Indian
market

focus on
Starting from January 2007, Soilmec Indian arm was set up
30 for scaling up the operation aiming at one motive “selling”

Soilmec India is headquartered in Mumbai providing equipment, sales & service,
training across the country with a strong support of inventory of spares and other parts
in Mumbai and Delhi. Soilmec India is being incorporated as a manufacturing and trading
company. Mr Davide Panzavolta, Soilmec Area Manager, said his company will be interested
in introducing the whole range of its sophisticated drilling machine systems, which had
undergone a change integrating more safety apparatus like operator’s cabins, video camera
and remote radio control for easier monitoring and quick follow-up actions by the customers
of the machines installed at various sites. Started with setting up a 2,000 square meters factory
for manufacturing drilling tools, Soilmec India plan to manufacture around 250 tools
in 2009 for serving the Soilmec customer in the local market. This will serve as an
added value to our selling of drilling rig in a market which needs a continuous monitoring on
the choosing the right equipment and tools in different conditions of work. Today the strong
presence of skilled technicians and operators have increased the aura around support issue All about the charme of Indian
which has always been considered the most wanted feature of the Indian customers from the architecture for Soilmec SR-40.

equipment manufacturer. In the last two years, India has increasingly developed a great demand
for Soilmec product and technology because of its quality, expertise, reliability and innovation.
With this respect, a strategic road map has been concreted to meet these requirements, by
offering comprehensive solutions that are the results of intense research & development done
by Soilmec over the last 4 decades. Soilmec International experience & technical know-
how is on its way to meet Indian demands – that will benefit the construction industry
tremendously. With the infrastructure & energy projects gaining momentum, our specialised
range of equipment and accessories for deep foundation works are ideally suited for these

A crowd assists to
Soilmec R-625 drilling
operations.

projects. We have introduced our flagship drilling and piling machines for the initial stage. On
the later stage, depending on the demand based on customer requirements we plan to add
innovation to the existing product range. One of the key services that we will offer in
India is “customisation”. Soilmec being a manufacturing company, we are in a position to
customise the machinery as customer specifications & utilization. This value added service
in the construction industry, sets apart Soilmec from its competitors. By imparting
appropriate training to operators all over the country, Soilmec ensures that the equipment at
a customer’s site works to its full potential with negligible or zero downtime. Soilmec India
have successfully demonstrated the prowess of Soilmec products, and converted them into
sales. There’s a surge in demand for drilling and piling machines, all over India, which will be
delivered in the next months. The importance of construction industry can be gauged by the
In two years India mentioned size and we are ideally positioned to meet the demands posed by the industry.
has increasingly focus on
developed a
great demand for
Soilmec products 31
and technologies

Two Soilmec machines, SR-70 (above)
and SR-100 (beside), at work in India.

events

32

PICTURES
FROM
GEOFLUID

Soilmec
Welcome
to “the Pearl”!

events
Bauma China 2008
Shanghai (China)
34 November 25-28, 2008

Great success for Soilmec at the 12th too, played a base role while ideating the
edition of Bauma China, the most important project of “the Pearl”…
exhibition in the Far East dedicated to the The success of the exhibition is also due
equipment for special foundations and for to the precious cooperation of the Eastern
construction industry machinery. It was subsidiaries of Soilmec network, of the A new concept of Soilmec stand
held at the Expo Centre in Shanghai, from Representative Office in Beijing and of Focus on:
November 25th to 28th. Soilmec had a brand Soilmec Hong Kong. Hospitality & Technology

new exposition structure, with a spherical See you at Intermat 2009! Feeling with Customers

base, somehow suggesting the embrace of
a precious content, a “pearl”, a welcoming
isle of relax along the busy exhibition days.
Smooth shapes, multimedia information
points for the new 3D, Soilmec labelled,
catalogues, a typical “made in Italy” warm
welcome, and everything together making
up “the Pearl” as a real landmark of the
event, either for the various professionals
and for all those who are mostly caring for
new trends in technologies and design. A
special care for the customer – main target
of Soilmec new vision – and a special care
of the specific needs of the Eastern market

IFCEE 09
March 15-19, 2009
Orlando (U.S.A.)

The International Foundations Congress and Equipment Expo ‘09 (IFCEE09)
will provide a spectacular and comprehensive congress. It combines the International
Association of Foundation Drilling (ADSC), the Geo-Institute of ASCE, and the Pile Driving
Contractors Association (PDCA) 2009 annual meetings, and will bring together varied
U.S.A. and worldwide industry organizations. As part of the technical program, engineers,
foundation contractors, equipment manufacturers, suppliers, and researchers will discuss the
latest technological advances in the foundation and earth retention industry.

OMC 2009
March 25-27, 2009
Ravenna (Italy)
The Offshore Mediterranean Conference & Exhibition 2009 is the complete
events
event for the Mediterranean oil&gas industry as it brings together hundreds of
companies and organizations from worldwide. Anyone involved in the industry cannot
miss the opportunity to participate in OMC: more than 7.600 attendees from Europe, 35
America, Africa and the Middle East participated in lest edition (2007). The general
theme of OMC 2009 – The Mediterranean: the centre of Energy Interdependence –
aims at highlighting the situation which is consolidating in the Mediterranean area.

INTERMAT 2009
April 20-25, 2009
Paris (France)
One of the world’s three biggest trade shows for building technology and construction
market (with Bauma and Samoter), Intermat brings together the major players in the
construction materials and machinery production industry. One special feature that makes
this event unique is that it is the only one to offer an outside demonstration area of
30,000 square meters, on which exhibitors’ machines perform in a gigantic open-air
construction area. For the 2009 editions Intermat is opening its doors to new business
sectors as mines & quarries, drilling and boring.

ERKE Group, Soilmec Journal Feb'08

ERKE Group, Soilmec Journal Feb'08

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