Construction

Al Mulla wins Schneider's Sustainability Impact Award

Schneider Electric honors Al Mulla Engineering with the Sustainability Impact Award for outstanding efforts in enhancing HVAC efficiency and achieving decarbonisation. (Image source: Al Mulla Engineering)

Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, has announced that Bader Al Mulla & Bros. Co. (Al Mulla Engineering), a member of Al Mulla Group and the largest contractor in Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) construction services, has won the Schneider Electric Sustainability Impact Award

Al Mulla Engineering was honored with this award for its outstanding efforts in helping customers achieve their decarbonisation goals. The company implemented energy-efficient designs to enhance HVAC system efficiency while maintaining optimal building operations. During this award cycle, Al Mulla Engineering's team aligned with customer sustainability goals and delivered customised solutions to optimise building operations. These solutions led to a 7% reduction in cooling water consumption and a 9% reduction in energy consumption in 2022 compared to the 2019 baseline.

This recognition is part of Schneider Electric’s initiative to support partners, customers, and suppliers dedicated to achieving sustainability goals. It also highlights Al Mulla Engineering’s strong commitment to ensuring that its strategic growth initiatives adhere to the highest global standards, maintaining sustainability practices across its diverse engineering operations.

Amel Chadli, Gulf countries president, commented, “I congratulate Al Mulla Engineering for its outstanding efforts to empower its customers to reach their sustainability goals. Businesses need to look beyond their own operations and consider who they are indirectly responsible for across their value chain and, crucially, who they can assist along the way. Reaching net zero is a collective goal, and we need to work together to share the best sustainable practices and support customers to decarbonise.”

Anfal N. Al Mulla, managing director of Al Mulla Engineering, added, “We are delighted to have been recognised for the work we have done to minimise the environmental impact on the planet and supporting to improve the performance of the building by providing the technologies to address the environmental social goals of our customers. We are acutely aware that expectations on businesses like ours to demonstrate how we are decarbonising our own operations and those of our customers, are only going to intensify as we draw closer to 2050. We wanted to get ahead and play our part in the journey to net zero and are proud to be recognized for this by receiving this award.”

Schneider Electric facilitates sustainable practices with solutions that are simplified, open and utilise digital transformation as a key driver for positive change. One way the company achieves this is by enabling partners to assess their own carbon footprint and build a trackable and traceable plan of action, as well as certifying partners’ ability to assess the sustainability of their supplier and customer ecosystems.

Schneider Electric Sustainability Impact Awards were launched in 2022 to celebrate and recognize the pivotal role that Schneider’s extensive network of partners play in delivering a more resilient and sustainable electric world. Participants continue to be carefully assessed on how they are leveraging energy and digital and automation solutions in operations, reducing energy usage, increasing operational efficiency, and embracing circularity across the value chain.

Masdar City earns top digital certifications

The Link, set to be finalised in 2025, includes five buildings designated for both commercial and residential use, covering a total floor area of 30,000 sq m. (Image source: Masdar City)

Masdar City, Abu Dhabi’s premier hub for sustainability and innovation, has attained the prestigious WiredScore Platinum and SmartScore Gold certifications for its upcoming Masdar City Square and The Link projects, respectively

The WiredScore certification serves as the international standard for evaluating digital integration in urban projects. Analogous to the LEED certification for eco-friendly buildings, WiredScore’s goal is to establish the international benchmark for technological advancements in the built environment, thereby fostering buildings that are smarter and more interconnected, promoting a future that is more cooperative, innovative, and dynamic.

Encompassing seven commercial structures, Masdar City Square spans a total floor area of 50,000 sq m and offers cutting-edge office spaces equipped with superior digital connectivity and intelligent features. The Link, set to be finalised in 2025, includes five buildings designated for both commercial and residential use, covering a total floor area of 30,000 sq m. This development is poised to forge a vibrant, multi-functional space that fluidly combines residential and professional areas with a sophisticated technological framework.

Benjamin Rumsey, senior manager of sustainable development and investments at Masdar City, added, “These first-of-their-kind certifications in Masdar City demonstrate our commitment to delivering best-in-class real estate solutions to our partners and tenants. We initiated the certification process for both developments during the construction period and were able to achieve Platinum and Gold certification without any design modifications. This further validates that our assets are planned to the highest international standards in terms of digital connectivity and smart functionality, in addition to sustainability and wellness. We will continue to push the boundaries in all our future projects as we believe that Masdar City is the destination for people to live, work and play.”

John Hilliard, head of Middle East at WiredScore, remarked, “I am thrilled that we could help Masdar City position its newest office developments at the forefront of a rapidly growing Grade A pipeline in the UAE. By achieving WiredScore Platinum and SmartScore Gold, Masdar City Square and The Link have demonstrated that they provide exceptional connectivity, resilience, smart functionality, and readiness to incorporate future technologies as tenant requirements evolve. Congratulations to the Masdar City team for this fantastic achievement.”

Bobcat launches Stage V S630/S650 loaders

Standard on the S630/S650 are Versatile Duty Tyres, featuring a bi-directional design suitable for various mixed surfaces, which significantly extends tyre life and reduces costs. (Image source: Bobcat)

Bobcat has unveiled the latest Stage V iterations of its M-Series S630 and S650 Skid-Steer Loaders, tailored for the more stringent European markets

The launch expands the available options for customers in this segment, offering the new M-Series S630/S650 alongside the advanced R-Series S66/S76 models, reinforcing Bobcat’s dominant position in Europe’s skid-steer loader market of this size.

The newly introduced S630 model is adept at navigating confined spaces while providing the necessary reach and visibility for tasks like transferring materials over barriers, backfilling, or loading onto flatbed trucks. It boasts a rated operating capacity of 1012 kg and a tipping load of 2023 kg. The S650, with its vertical lift path design, is ideal for lifting, carrying, and handling materials, with a rated operating capacity of 1227 kg and a tipping load of 2455 kg. Both variants maintain their versatility, being compatible with an extensive array of Bobcat attachments.

Superior performance

Both the S630 and S650 models deliver exceptional performance in compliance with the stringent Stage V emission standards, thanks to the reliable Bobcat D24 engine equipped with a Bosch Fuel Injection System. Positioned transversally, the engine allows these models to retain their compact dimensions, enabling operation and maneuverability in confined spaces.

Innovations in engine technology have led to reduced fuel consumption without compromising on performance. Additionally, the initial engine oil service interval has been extended to 500 hours, and advancements in fuel filtration contribute to less frequent filter changes. Standard on the S630/S650 are Versatile Duty Tyres, featuring a bi-directional design suitable for various mixed surfaces, which significantly extends tyre life and reduces costs.

Operator comfort features

Bobcat has incorporated several sought-after comfort features in the S630/S650 models:

* Heat or Air Conditioning (HVAC) – ensures operator comfort throughout the year, regardless of location.
* Cloth Suspension Seat – enhances comfort for the operator in all seasons.
* Auto Ride Control (optional) – augments operator comfort and machine stability.

The base models of the S630/S650 come with a new Deluxe control panel that supports a wide range of European languages. Each machine is also fitted with Bobcat Telematics solutions.

The Deluxe panel minimizes the potential for misuse with its keyless start feature. Additionally, options like High Flow or 2-Speed can be password-protected and locked if needed.

The new after-treatment technology (DPF) operates autonomously during regular use. Should the need arise, operators can easily manage this technology via the Deluxe panel menu, allowing for monitoring of both the machine and the exhaust after-treatment system. The newly introduced automatic multi-step engine low-idle sequence enhances engine performance in cold conditions.

For machines equipped with Selectable Joystick Controls (SJC), the auto-idle function reduces engine speed to low idle when the joysticks are in a neutral position and unused for approximately five seconds. This feature contributes to quieter operation and lower fuel consumption.

In addition to the Deluxe Panel, Bobcat Telematics, and Versatile Duty Tyres, the standard equipment for the S630/S650 includes Hand and Foot Controls, a Deluxe Cab with Side Windows, and a Suspension Seat. Optional features available are a Cloth Suspension Seat; Selectable Joystick Controls; a Deluxe Cab with Heating or HVAC; Heavy Duty Offset and Severe Duty Tyres; High Flow with Attachment Control; 2-Speed and Power Bob-tach.

The Standard Warranty period has been extended to two years (2000 hours), with Protection Plus offering coverage for up to five years.

ConFEX wraps up with global participation

The seventh edition of the Construction Technology ConFEX (CTF) concluded successfully on 4 June 2024, bringing together over 800 key stakeholders and industry professionals from across the globe. (Image source: ConFEX 2024)

The seventh edition of the Construction Technology ConFEX (CTF) concluded on 4 June, drawing more than 800 key stakeholders and industry professionals from around the globe.

This year's CTF UAE emphasised four main themes in the industry: climate and decarbonisation, wellbeing and social agenda, viability and competitive edge, and productivity and performance.

The event delved into essential steps for the industry to excel across these themes, emphasising the critical role of technology and digitalisation in achieving these goals efficiently and effectively. This aligns with the UAE's commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and promoting a greener, more sustainable future through innovation and collaboration.

“CTF UAE 2024 explored essential steps for industry excellence as it embraces increasingly sophisticated construction technology and digitalisation techniques,” said Katie Briggs, events director at b2b Connect. “Our skylines are becoming icons of progress, sustainability, and human ingenuity, and this would not be possible without the use of advanced technologies and digitalisation.”

A wide array of topics was covered, including sustainability, scaling up adoption, people and skills, PMIS, ERP, digital twins, BIM, cloud, AI, and more. Attendees gained in-depth knowledge and actionable strategies to navigate the industry’s evolving landscape, with insights from over 165 industry experts.

More than 800 participants, including project developers, contractors, consultants, industry experts, technology providers, startups, and key stakeholders from over 20 countries, gathered at CTF UAE to connect, collaborate, and explore new opportunities. The ConFEX served as a platform to foster meaningful partnerships and drive innovation within the construction technology ecosystem.

WakeCap highlights importance of collaboration in construction technology

WakeCap’s CEO, Dr. Hassan Albalawi, during the 7th edition of CTF. (Image source: WakeCap)

“Collaboration holds the key to unlocking the potential of construction technology,” said WakeCap’s CEO, Dr. Hassan Albalawi, during the 7th edition of Construction Technology ConFex (CTF). “We already know the power of data to improve business operations, whether in safety, productivity, or other areas. But the moment you combine data from multiple sources, it becomes so much more powerful.”

Held at the Ritz-Carlton JBR on June 3-4, more than 1,000 project owners, developers, contractors, consultants and technology companies attended the two-day event that brought together industry leaders, experts and decision-makers to share insights on how the latest approaches to work can be harnessed to improve the industry.

CTF provides a critical platform for industry leaders and innovators to exchange ideas, connect, and learn from each other. Dr. Albalawi spoke at Unlocking the Future of Construction Safety Through Technology, a key panel during the event. Four key themes underpinned the event attended by the region’s leading project owners: Climate and Decarbonisation, Wellbeing and Social Agenda, Viability and Competitive Edge, and Productivity and Performance.

“Technology presents countless opportunities for construction companies to succeed in overcoming challenges, such as delays, safety concerns or budget overruns, exactly what we offer at WakeCap. The future of construction is more exciting than ever and we’re excited to be driving the conversation forwards,” added WakeCap’s Head of Product Management, Salpie Kechichian, a nominee for CTF’s Women in ConTech Award, which recognises the achievements of women leaders in construction.

Dr. Albalawi was one of over 180 industry experts in attendance at CTF, and spoke about specific challenges and opportunities surrounding construction technology and its implications for safety.

“Construction technology is driving swift change in our industry. Data has traditionally been collected for compliance purposes, but technologies such as WakeCap’s smart hard-hat solution demonstrate how safety processes can be improved on large-scale construction projects. It is critical to not only have that technology in place but to leverage it to its full potential,” said Dr. Albalawi.

The panel covered several key topics and trends, from the swift adoption of safety technology in Saudi Arabia, whose construction sector is booming, to the challenges of deploying new technology and how these can be better understood and mitigated.

“At WakeCap, we increasingly see an emerging demand in construction technology for collaboration between solutions providers, with owners wanting one provider to implement, deploy and manage the technology on sites. Integrating multiple solutions and offering site owners and developers a more streamlined solution is key to improving safety, productivity and operational efficiency,” he added.