#Plastic Formwork

[formworksnova]

Nova Formworks Ongoing Monolithic Structure

Constructing the future with resilience and accuracy. Nova's dedication to innovation and superior construction practices is demonstrated by our continuing monolithic structure project.

[nnctales]

Types of Formworks in Construction

Formwork is a crucial element in the construction industry, providing the necessary mold or framework for shaping concrete into desired structures. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring the integrity, strength, and precision of concrete elements. Various types of formwork are employed in construction projects, each tailored to specific requirements and conditions. This article explores the diverse…

[novaformworks]

Proud Moment for Nova Formworks: Building for the G20 Summit

Nova Formworks has been pivotal in constructing underpasses along the Dwarka Expressway, a crucial link for foreign diplomats attending the prestigious G20 Summit in Delhi.

[vincivilworld]

Formwork in construction – Top 5 Formwork types

Formwork in construction – Top 5 Formwork types

Formwork in construction refers to a mould used to shape concrete into structural shapes (beams, columns, slabs, shells) for buildings and other structures. Concrete is one of the most popular building materials due to its exceptional properties and advantages. However, in order to create construction components, concrete must be poured into a specific mould. In order to achieve the desired shape…

[cuip-blog]

What to check before using PVC formwork for concrete

The relationship between the wholesale products of PVC formwork for concrete and the layout of supports has a great impact on the use effect, and whether it meets the design standards is a very important factor.

Before the formal use of PVC formwork for concrete, pay attention to check the layout of the connectors and supports of the support. Each place needs to be confirmed. If there is any sign of looseness, it needs to be fastened in time. For important parts such as fastening bolts and support fasteners, professional tools such as torque wrench shall be used for inspection or fastening, and the overall support force point and stability shall be well done. It is also necessary to check the elevation, axis position, etc., otherwise it will affect the construction efficiency and quality.

Before and after the construction, it shall be confirmed with the relevant responsible personnel, and the construction can be carried out only after the construction is allowed. During the construction, the operation shall be carried out in strict accordance with the specified standards to avoid some violent acts damaging the product quality or the interior of the concrete.

forward from:https://www.jiagujianfzk.com/

[adtomall1998]

Below we will make a comparison between plastic formwork and steel formwork as shown below.

[novacompany1]

Nova Formworks has earned a market reputation as a provider of technical assistance in the construction sector and knowan as one of the leading Plastic Formwork manufactures in India. Contact us for any help!

[architecturalthesis]

3D Printed Freeform Formwork

The performance of 3D printed formwork and its geometric complexity varies, depending on the type of plastic used for 3D printing the formwork and the printing technology. The three columns showcase the degree of geometric freedom achievable in concrete formwork when printing with different materials—namely PLA, PVA, and PETG—and using different 3D printing techniques—robotic fused granulate fabrication (FGF) and fused filament fabrication (FFF) cartesian machines.

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a common plastic material in the 3D printing industry, being both biodegradable and produced from renewable, organic starches. PVA (Polyvinyl Acetate) is a water-soluble synthetic polymer often used for support material on complex 3D prints due to its ease of removal when in direct contact with water. This research uses PVA to directly 3D print the formwork parts. Due to its high sensitivity to moisture, PVA requires airtight storage. Because of the material’s sensitivity, PVA can clog the nozzle of a 3d printer. PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a thermoplastic copolyester with high chemical resistance, durability, and ductility. It is also fully recyclable.

Acknowledgement for 3D Printing Concrete Formwork Project Project Instructor: Assistant Professor Dr. Mania Aghaei Meibodi

Contributing Students:  Ryan Craney, Han-Yuan Chang, Monik Gada, Feras Nour,  Christopher Voltl, Jessica Lin, Chia-Ching Yen, Carl Uwe Eppinger, Aaron Weaver

[qualitysublimephilosopher-blog1]

Innovative Solutions: Corrugated Plastic Sheets for Modern Challenges

Corrugated plastic sheets, also known as coroplast or corrugated plastic boards, are versatile materials with a fluted structure made from polypropylene or polyethylene. Despite being lightweight, they offer durability and strength, making them suitable for a wide range of applications across industries.

These sheets are commonly used in packaging and shipping for creating boxes, containers, and protective inserts due to their cushioning and impact-resistant properties. They are also popular in signage and display applications, as they can be easily cut, printed on, and shaped into various designs for advertising and promotional purposes.

In construction, corrugated plastic sheets serve as temporary barriers, protective coverings, and formwork for concrete casting. They are valued for their lightweight nature and durability in outdoor environments.

Agriculturally, these sheets find use in greenhouse construction, plant protection covers, and signage due to their ability to provide insulation and protection against weather elements.

Other applications include arts and crafts projects, where their versatility allows for easy customization through cutting, painting, and assembly into creative designs.

Key benefits of corrugated plastic sheets include cost-effectiveness, versatility, and recyclability. They offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional materials like wood or metal, are easily customizable to meet specific project needs, and are recyclable at the end of their lifespan, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

In summary, corrugated plastic sheets are prized for their lightweight durability and find use in packaging, construction, agriculture, signage, and crafts, offering a versatile and eco-friendly solution for various industrial and creative applications.

[esgagile]

Innovative Products to Lower Carbon Emissions

We are Carbon footprint consultant in Agile Advisors, "Carbon reduction" will become a required duty in the construction industry's future. Various approaches to producing new materials include 3D printing, recycling, low-carbon substitutes, and performance increases. In addition to being more ecologically friendly and opening up new construction techniques, new materials will also impact the direction and starting point of design concepts, leading to new structures with novel spaces and perspectives. Low-carbon building materials are not just a strategy, but the mainstay of the building materials sector's efforts to curb carbon emissions at the source. These materials, most of which are bio-based, utilize renewable biomass or raw materials from bio-manufacturing. The exterior of the building features two different textures: a laminated surface created using laminated printing and a carefully planned woven pattern texture on the sidewall in front of the door that gives visitors a delicate impression.

Agile Advisors provide Carbon footprint consultant In UAE, they represent a novel class of materials produced through chemical, physical, and biological processes, such as dried luffa fibres, corn stalks, mycelium, microalgae, and more. By reusing agricultural waste, mitigating subsidence, absorbing CO2, and minimizing plastic waste, they are shifting the industry's reliance from fossil to biological or planted resources, thereby significantly reducing carbon emissions. The Alive Pavilion, an entry by The Living Studio to the 2021 Venice Biennale, is a testament to the possibilities of multi-species architecture and the effective utilization of microorganisms. The Pavilion is constructed from the dried fibres of luffa, a low-cost, fast-growing vegetable that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. These fibres, with their unique surface, create a robust, organic material that can support a variety of microorganisms. The fibre concrete the team developed—which omits formwork and steel bars—was used for cabin printing.

As a Carbon footprint consultant, Hard-to-degrade plastics, construction trash from urban renewal cycles, ceramic waste from ceramic production, etc. Both ceramic and clay tiles are mostly made of clay. Over 10 million tons of ceramics are thrown away annually in China; these solid wastes not only utilize a lot of energy and land resources, such as coal, but they also have high carbon emissions that are above regulations and seriously affect the environment. Ceramic waste disposal has grown to be an issue. A unique example of a recycled construction material made from ceramic waste, the Recycled Tree at Design China Beijing showcases design concepts for addressing China's severe waste material management issue. It was developed in partnership with Italian architect Aldo Cibic.

Being a Carbon footprint consultant In Dubai, the recycled ceramic tiles were gathered, examined, ground into a powder, combined, and subjected to laboratory testing. Materials like wood were eventually supplanted by steel and cement due to their inferior performance; however, the traditional materials are still being revived by modern techniques to enhance their performance. 3D printing technology has broadened design options and altered how architecture is conceptualized. Investigating materials for 3D printing has produced architectural environments with a range of sensations and structures. Furthermore, labour and material costs associated with 3D printing help lower carbon emissions. Two sets of robotic arm printing systems are used to print the cabin: one prints the main structure and building foundation in place, while the other prints the arc wall and dome top in situ.

[plywoodshop]

Best Plywood Shop In Varanasi

Plywood serves as a versatile and essential material in the woodworking and construction industries. It acts as the foundation for various products, including laminates, veneers, WPC (Wood Plastic Composite), and flush doors. Let's explore the characteristics and applications of these materials.

Plywood, defined as a composite material, is created by bonding thin layers of wood veneer together to form a flat sheet. It offers numerous benefits such as increased stability, high impact resistance, surface dimensional stability, and a high strength-to-weight ratio. Due to its strength and durability, plywood is widely used in structural applications like flooring, shear walls, and formwork.

Laminates- On the other hand, are versatile and durable finishes that come in a variety of textures, colors, and finishes. They offer high resistance to stains, scratches, moisture, and impact. Laminates are easy to apply, require low maintenance, and provide a wide range of options, including natural wooden textures, high gloss/matt colors, and textures inspired by natural surfaces. They are ideal for furniture, countertops, and interior surfaces where a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish is desired.

Veneers- Thin slices of real wood, add elegance and a natural wood look to plywood furniture. They are available in a range of patterns, colors, and wood grains. Veneers can be stained, painted, or clear laminated to achieve the desired aesthetic. Commonly used to enhance the appearance of plywood furniture, veneers offer a high-end finish with the warmth and beauty of real wood.

WPC (Wood Plastic Composite)- It is a composite material composed of wood fiber/wood flour and thermoplastic(s) such as PE, PP, PVC, or PLA. It combines the aesthetics of wood with the durability of plastic, providing a low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials.

In conclusion, plywood, laminates, veneers, WPC, and flush doors are essential components in the woodworking and construction industries. Each material offers unique characteristics and applications, contributing to the versatility and durability of various products.

[mcdonoughosborne21]

Mada Gypsum Company In Saudi Arabia Provider Of Normal Plasterboard & Entry Panel

Blue Light Trading Company is firmly established as a market chief amongst corporations specializing in the supply of industrial supplies in Saudi Arabia. In collaboration with our worldwide suppliers Blue Light Trading Company offers a diverse range of high of the range merchandise. The rising demand from development actions in both residential & business sector has been driving the plasterboard market in Saudi Arabia considerably over recent years. This is especially attributed to high government investments in the path of public infrastructure growth tasks similar to railways, airports & seaports that are expected to bolster product usage throughout all end-use industries over the forecast period. Low Price/ High Quality Gypsum Board/ Plasterboard/ Drywallwe can provide all the units of partition and ceiling system , embrace gentle steel keel (Stud , Track , Angle bead,)Screws Fiberglass  and so forth. This report offers an in-depth analysis of the worldwide plaster market. This report offers an in-depth analysis of the plaster market in the EU. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the plaster market in China. This report supplies an in-depth evaluation of the plaster market in the U.S.. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the plaster market in Asia. It is a quantity one manufacturer of hydraulic press solutions by providing an in depth line of standard Hydraulic Presses in all sizes and configurations. Also, it's specialized in designing a customized application and build a press that is finest suited to prospects' needs. drywall manufacturer of high-quality plastic and elastomer semi-finished merchandise, in addition to CNC lathes and seals that are used in all forms of industrial sectors to manufacture seals and O-rings. El-Khayyat Gypsum is a quantity one provider of Gypsum Powder and Gypsum Board. From this raw material, Gypsum Powder and Board are manufactured at our manufacturing facility at Yanbu Industrial City. AGC provides a complete vary of drywall screws for the fixing of Gypsum boards to the steel framing. AGC Screws are produced from corrosion protected hardened steel and complying with ASTM C 1002 and ASTM C 954 respectively. You can discover New markets for Plasterboard exports from Volza Country clever market report of last 10 years with growth fee, purchaser, provider, value and volume. Supply of Electrical elements constitutes the core enterprise of the company. gypsum board solutions ksa embody Electrical Substations, Medium & Low Voltage Cables, Mineral & Silicon Transformers, LV Fuse Boards and other high tech gadgets which constitute the spine of infrastructure tasks. Commitment to Quality and delivery schedules has ensured an enviable position for Amad Baeed in the sphere of Electrical provides for practically 20 years. Sourcing the inventory from across the globe, the company strives to partner with the shoppers of their pursuit of success. Mada Gypsum Company provides the solutions needed to make work and residing spaces safer, quieter, and aesthetically pleasing. SSF (Saudi Scaffolding Factory) is the first scaffolding facility of its kind within the Kingdom. Established in 1983, SSF is an Aramco accredited vendor that services the construction industry providing an array of solutions together with scaffolding and formwork solutions, roll kind manufacturing, and power entry services. Inara lighting company cater ornamental lamp poles on the streets of Holy Makkah, beautifying the streets also including security value to the city. Inara lighting can be committed to offer various Tunnel and Road lighting solutions to the Holy Makkah municipality, a very distinguished enterprise partner and achieve national goals by becoming a member of arms togather. NAL, all the time tries to build partnerships with their clients, solving their problems and providing all of the technical assistance required for them to enhance their manufacturing. There are numerous instances when the company has demonstrated its commitment to its customers, and exercised complete discretion, which is assured to protect their enterprise. Uniflex-Hydraulik GmbH has been creating, manufacturing and promoting revolutionary systems for hose meeting manufacturing and processing for 45 years. UNIFLEX satisfies even essentially the most exacting calls for of shoppers so far as hydraulic crimpers and peripheral equipment for industrial and service corporations are involved – as a manufacturer and a global supplier. Lack of consciousness about the benefits and makes use of of plasterboard in Saudi Arabia. Availability of other building supplies, similar to brick-and-mortar buildings, that are extra generally utilized by local building firms are some challenges that can hamper the market development. indicators within the Saudi Arabia market. Also, components which might be driving and restraining the concrete superplasticizer market are highlighted within the study. drywall manufacturer saudi arabia is an in-depth enterprise intelligence report primarily based on qualitative and quantitative parameters of the market. Mada Fire Resistant Plasterboard are utilized in Residential and Commercial Buildings, Hospitals, Airports, Educational Institutions and different such applications. Mada Fire Resistant Plasterboards offer a lightweight and efficient solution for partitions requiring hearth resistance properties. Jonah Bromwich, who covers felony justice in New York, explains what occurred through the opening days of the trial, which is tied to Mr. Trump’s role in a hush-money cost to a porn star.

[novaformworks]

Nelson Mandela Day

Honoring the legacy of Nelson Mandela, a symbol of courage and resilience. On this Nelson Mandela Day, let's come together in solidarity and take action for a better world.

[dennismartinussen66]

Mada Gypsum Company In Saudi Arabia Provider Of Normal Plasterboard & Entry Panel

Blue Light Trading Company is firmly established as a market chief amongst corporations specializing in the supply of industrial supplies in Saudi Arabia. In collaboration with our worldwide suppliers Blue Light Trading Company offers a diverse range of high of the range merchandise. The rising demand from development actions in both residential & business sector has been driving the plasterboard market in Saudi Arabia considerably over recent years. This is especially attributed to high government investments in the path of public infrastructure growth tasks similar to railways, airports & seaports that are expected to bolster product usage throughout all end-use industries over the forecast period. Low Price/ High Quality Gypsum Board/ Plasterboard/ Drywallwe can provide all the units of partition and ceiling system , embrace gentle steel keel (Stud , Track , Angle bead,)Screws Fiberglass  and so forth. This report offers an in-depth analysis of the worldwide plaster market. This report offers an in-depth analysis of the plaster market in the EU. gypsum board solutions provides an in-depth analysis of the plaster market in China. This report supplies an in-depth evaluation of the plaster market in the U.S.. This report provides an in-depth analysis of the plaster market in Asia. It is a quantity one manufacturer of hydraulic press solutions by providing an in depth line of standard Hydraulic Presses in all sizes and configurations. Also, it's specialized in designing a customized application and build a press that is finest suited to prospects' needs. A international manufacturer of high-quality plastic and elastomer semi-finished merchandise, in addition to CNC lathes and seals that are used in all forms of industrial sectors to manufacture seals and O-rings. El-Khayyat Gypsum is a quantity one provider of Gypsum Powder and Gypsum Board. From this raw material, Gypsum Powder and Board are manufactured at our manufacturing facility at Yanbu Industrial City. AGC provides a complete vary of drywall screws for the fixing of Gypsum boards to the steel framing. AGC Screws are produced from corrosion protected hardened steel and complying with ASTM C 1002 and ASTM C 954 respectively. You can discover New markets for Plasterboard exports from Volza Country clever market report of last 10 years with growth fee, purchaser, provider, value and volume. Supply of Electrical elements constitutes the core enterprise of the company. The main products embody Electrical Substations, Medium & Low Voltage Cables, Mineral & Silicon Transformers, LV Fuse Boards and other high tech gadgets which constitute the spine of infrastructure tasks. Commitment to Quality and delivery schedules has ensured an enviable position for Amad Baeed in the sphere of Electrical provides for practically 20 years. Sourcing the inventory from across the globe, the company strives to partner with the shoppers of their pursuit of success. Mada Gypsum Company provides the solutions needed to make work and residing spaces safer, quieter, and aesthetically pleasing. SSF (Saudi Scaffolding Factory) is the first scaffolding facility of its kind within the Kingdom. Established in 1983, SSF is an Aramco accredited vendor that services the construction industry providing an array of solutions together with scaffolding and formwork solutions, roll kind manufacturing, and power entry services. Inara lighting company cater ornamental lamp poles on the streets of Holy Makkah, beautifying the streets also including security value to the city. Inara lighting can be committed to offer various Tunnel and Road lighting solutions to the Holy Makkah municipality, a very distinguished enterprise partner and achieve national goals by becoming a member of arms togather. NAL, all the time tries to build partnerships with their clients, solving their problems and providing all of the technical assistance required for them to enhance their manufacturing. There are numerous instances when the company has demonstrated its commitment to its customers, and exercised complete discretion, which is assured to protect their enterprise. Uniflex-Hydraulik GmbH has been creating, manufacturing and promoting revolutionary systems for hose meeting manufacturing and processing for 45 years. UNIFLEX satisfies even essentially the most exacting calls for of shoppers so far as hydraulic crimpers and peripheral equipment for industrial and service corporations are involved – as a manufacturer and a global supplier. Lack of consciousness about the benefits and makes use of of plasterboard in Saudi Arabia. Availability of other building supplies, similar to brick-and-mortar buildings, that are extra generally utilized by local building firms are some challenges that can hamper the market development. indicators within the Saudi Arabia market. Also, components which might be driving and restraining the concrete superplasticizer market are highlighted within the study. This is an in-depth enterprise intelligence report primarily based on qualitative and quantitative parameters of the market. Mada Fire Resistant Plasterboard are utilized in Residential and Commercial Buildings, Hospitals, Airports, Educational Institutions and different such applications. Mada Fire Resistant Plasterboards offer a lightweight and efficient solution for partitions requiring hearth resistance properties. Jonah Bromwich, who covers felony justice in New York, explains what occurred through the opening days of the trial, which is tied to Mr. Trump’s role in a hush-money cost to a porn star.

[cuip-blog]

Relevant installation methods of PVC formwork for concrete

Whether the wholesale PVC formwork products for concrete are correctly installed will directly affect the construction efficiency, thus affecting the construction cost. Therefore, correct installation measures must be taken.

Attention shall be paid to the staggered installation, which can be closed with iron wire first, and then reinforced with fixed steel belt. After the formwork is closed and reinforced, the bottom circular plane of the PVC formwork shall be 0.5-1cm away from the ground, and the joint shall be filled with concrete. For the installation position of the upper and lower interfaces of the two column formworks, the fixed steel strip shall also be used for reinforcement. Generally, the PVC formwork used for concrete can be cut arbitrarily, so it can be cut into the required shape at the special position such as beam column interface, which not only speeds up the construction progress, but also realizes the integral pouring of beam and column.

After the PVC formwork for concrete is installed, in order to protect the formwork, timbers shall be added around, and steel pipes shall be used to fix the timbers every 50-100cm, so as to vertically position the formwork.

forward from:https://www.shandongyaxing.com/

[bu1410]

Good afternoon TUMBLR - April 9th - 2024

''Mr. Plant has owed me a shoe since July 5, 1971."

Aksai, Kazakhstan - July 2000 - December 2001.

Part 4.

WATER TANK As part of the socially useful aid that AGIP used to undertake in the Aksai region, there was the installation of a large water tank at about 45 meters high. The aim was to solve once for all the problem of the lack of water of Aksai's citizens. We were tasked to execute the works and therefore the ''climbing formworks'' arrived from Italy for the construction of the tower where the tank would rest. The sheet metal already cut to size to assemble the tank, with a capacity of 4,500 cubic meters, also came from Italy. The tank was welded in our construction workshop, then an exceptional transport was organized to take them to the location chosen by the Municipal Administration. Once the foundations had been laid, the tank was placed on top and, having assembled the climbing formwork, it began its ascent. At the rate of one pour every two days for 2.5 meters of height, in about 20 days the tank was up there, 45 meters from the ground. Subsequently, the pipes were installed to connect the existing water network to the tank, in order to put it into operation. It was summer, and the lack of water was particularly felt, so the Municipality was pushing to ensure that enough water finally reached citizens' homes. The inauguration day came, it was a bright Sunday morning: everything was organized and in the presence of the Akim (Mayor), the General Director of AGIP Works, the KNB Top Officials and a large part of the citizens, the band played the anthem of Kazakhstan and Italy – the flags were raised, the (rhetorical) speeches were made, then the ribbon was cut jointly by the Akim and the AGIP Director. Immediately after the water began to flow from the tank pipes towards the city's utilities!! A great day for Aksai, for AGIP and for the Italian community that had made this long awaited project possible. The next day, in the afternoon, the first problems. Municipal technicians were forced to close the outlet valves from the tank. From the streets, from the buildings of the various Microrayon the water literally ''sprayed everywhere''. The pipes of the existing network were too old and bad condition, therefore didn't resisted the high water pressure. Leaks were reported practically everywhere in the city. The citizens went back around with the usual buckets and plastic containers to stock up on water. It took the whole summer and a considerable effort on everyone's part to dig and change the old iron pipes with ones in reinforced PVC and GRP. At the first cold temperatures of October, almost the entire city could finally take a shower in the evening, wash their dirty clothes, and above all that acrid and stale smell of clothes and coats that had troubled us so much the previous winter eventually disappeared.

AGIP CANTEEN It was summer, and in the evening we used to have dinner at SODEXO canteen. But the premises needed a refresh, so we were told that for a few days we would have dinner at canteen reserved for AGIP employees. So it was, and with great surprise we saw how racist an AGIP employee (Italian like us) can be and more over do nothing to hide it. At the entrance to the canteen the ''AGIP's employees'' arrived in groups of 5 or 6 and regularly overtook us in the queue. Not to mention the almost disgusted looks that accompanied phrases like ''but who are these… do you know them''? followed by expressions of surprise directed at each other. In line with the tray to collect the food, we were overtaken without hesitation by those fu****rs. In short, a real discrimination, based on who knows what type of ''superiority complex''. We joyfully welcomed the news that the work in our canteen was finished, and we could therefore go back to having dinner in a convivial manner (among other things, served at the table by very kind waitresses, not like those idiots at AGIP with tray in hand).

FLIGHT TO ITALY VIA OREMBURG - MOSCOW

For the series ''let's try to find a convenient route for return trips'', for some time the Company had opted the Orenburg – Moscow – Milan flight. Forst of all, it was necessary to cross the Kazakh-Russia border, in order to reach Orenburg, a journey of about 180 km along the state road towards the North-East. The flight to Moscow lasted 2 hours, with the old Tupolevs belonging to one of those private airlines born after the dissolution of the Soviet Union (Safety = 0.00%). Once at Moscow Domododievo airport early in the morning, we used to be picked up by a taxi driver (always the same guy) paid by the Company, who used to remain at our disposal all day. The flight to Milan – from Sheremetievo airport – used to take off late afternoon. Therefore we had most of the day available to wander around Moscow. We usually had lunch in one of those restaurant of Stari Arbat (old Arbat) neighborhood. At the airport, as I was warned by colleagues who had the same experience before, I didn't pay attention to the old trick of the roll of dollars dropped ''accidentally'' by a passer-by, while I was waiting for the taxi driver to arrive with the car. The trick was to walk past the possible victim (necessarily a foreigner) and pretend to lose a roll of dollars. The accomplices, sitting not far away, used to run over by saying:

''Hey!! You saw it ?? Come on, let's collect the money and go back into the alley and share the money!!! '' The very same thing had happened to five colleagues of mine, before me - only the first one agreed to go into the alley. As soon as they were there, those criminals jumped on him and tried to steal his briefcase, wallet, watch, mobile phone, etc. - he promptly reacted, starting to scream for help, and using the briefcase as a club, giving blows left and right. This had disoriented the thugs, who had given up and left, hurling the worst invectives at him in Russian. The taxi driver - in my opinion in cahoots with the criminals - arrived and after loading the luggage into the car we left for the city centre, about 45 km away. It was a beautiful sunny day, the heavy traffic on the ring road slowed down our journey, the outskirts of Moscow were made up of the usual dormitory buildings, only here they were twice as tall as in other Russian or Kazakh cities. All this suggested modest way of life, but at least more comfortable than in the Soviet era. After an hour and a half of travel, the driver dropped me off in the Stari Arbat area. An historic area closed to traffic, with numbers of shops and restaurants - the large international chains had already taken possession of the best buildings, and I noticed that the prices of Western goods were much higher than in Europe. Stari Arbat is essentially a pedestrian street about a kilometer long in the historic center of Moscow. The Arbat has existed since at least the 15th century and forms the heart of the central district of the Russian city. Originally the street was part of an important trade route and was populated by a large number of artisans. In the 18th century, the Arbat was considered by Russian nobles to be the most prestigious residential area of Moscow. The buildings along street were almost completely destroyed by the fire in 1812 during the Napoleonic occupation and had to be rebuilt. In the 19th and early 20th centuries it became known as the place where gentry, artists and academics lived, while in the Soviet period it was inhabited by many government officials. After wandering around for a while, I spotted a restaurant with an outdoor wooden terrace, crowded with customers - to tell the truth, there was another one right next to it, but strangely no one was sitting at its tables - and I, as by conditioned reflex, I sat down at one of the few remaining free tables in the crowded restaurant. When the waitress arrived I understood the reason for so much crowding: the owner of the restaurant - with a clever commercial-psychological move - had imposed on the waitresses a traditional costume uniform, with adeep cleavage like those seen at the Oktober fest in Munich. Anyway, I ate grilled meat and kartoshka (baked potatoes) and drank some excellent Baltica beer. I enjoyed the warm sun of the Moscow afternoon and then I was reached by the taxi driver's call: he was waiting for me a few hundred meters away. We headed to Sheremetyevo - A.S. airport. Pushkin international airport – 30 km north of Moscow. At the airport entrance the usual ''court of miracles'' of illegal taxi drivers, thugs and drug addicts who, the driver told me, before the fall of the Soviet regime, would have been swept away by the police in a blink of an eye. But now they were there, annoying all the passengers, trying to deceive the most naive ones, and trying to steal whatever possible. After the usual delays in customs and immigration, I finally reached the uncomfortable departure gate for Milan. Just one note on the flight: looking at the ground that we would have covered in less than 3 hours, I was reminded of how many useless kilometers of forced marches the armies of Napoleon, Hitler - and unfortunately also the Italians - made to try to reach Moscow. To then fall victim to the Russian's best ally: ''The General Winter''.

RETURN FLIGHT Via Moscow – Oremburg After the canonical 15 days of vacation, I returned to Kazakhstan via Moscow again. In the skies of Poland and Belarus, looking down at the infinite plain, I had the same thoughts as on the outward flight: Invading Russia meant losing the war, and in fact that's what happened. At Domododievo airport I boarded on the old Tupolev wondering: ''Will this be my last flight''? Instead the flight was uneventful, we landed in Orenburg on time, and when I finally I enter the arrival lounge the trusty Talgat was waiting for me. I hug the big Kazakh guy, and then we got off on the highway to Aksai. A few kilometers from the airport, Talgat asked me what I had brought from Italy: lightning struck me!! I forgot the three bottles of whiskey and brandy on the plane!!

Talgat we have to go back to the airport! Right away!!

But Talgat smiled bitterly: ''Some of the plane cleaning staff are already celebrating at this moment!'' The weather was getting bad, and when we reached the border with Kazakhstan the sky was pouring water and lightning like a real hurricane. We stopped in front of the Russian border police barrack, Talgat honked the Toyota Land Cruiser's horn several times: it seemed everyone had left. At a certain point, while the storm did not cease, an arm wrapped in a uniform came out from the container's office door, wawing signals that meant only one thing: GO…GO…. Idti! (Come on…come on…go!) Talgat didn't have to be told twice, and we crossed the border without anyone placing exit/entry stamps.

On the Kazakh side the offices were even barred!

Later I asked Talgat:

I don't have exit stamps from Russia and entry into Kazakhstan: what will I do next time I leave the country?

Talgat: Don't worry, just put a $100 bill in your passport, and you'll see that no one will ''notice'' that you don't have any stamps!

END OF WELDING CELEBRATION PARTY We had finished welding the 14 Km of 20'' pipe for the aqueduct between Unit 3 and Unit 1 so the Client organized a party to celebrate the event at the RENCO hotel. The entire top management of AGIP, the highest local authorities, and the head of the KNB (ex KGB) were invited to the party. I arrived at the restaurant a little late and unfortunately the guests were already all seated in the large restaurant room. I say unfortunately because that time I was the victim of the old Russian-Kazakh tradition of the ''round glass full of vodka''. The glass has no bottom, so it is not possible to place it on the table, and it's to be hol all the time, till vodka is fully drunk. You can therefore understand how badly that dinner started: swallowing a glass of vodka on an empty stomach is not a good start at all! It was for this reason - perhaps - that when my turn came to pronounce the ''toast'' (speech for the toast - we had already made about ten and we had not yet started eating…) mine was the most applauded! Many of those present stopped by my table to congratulate me, and pats on the back and kisses & hugs!! Till today I can't recall what I said, but judging from attendance reaction it must have been good! The dinner went on regularly, with periodic toasts to this and that (like a wedding dinner in Italy). The guests began to disperse into small groups, some playing billiards, some lying on the comfortable sofas to watch TV. The KNB Head– a gentleman already in his 60s – was sleeping sprawled across the bar counter, and his henchman tried in vain to wake him up by saying---

''Anatoliy……. Anatoliy……let's go home…it's late now……''

At a certain point the Chief nodded and said: Late? And how late?

It's past midnight Anatoly…….

Midnight? ONLY? Come on, bring vodka ……- Anatoly replied, and went back to sleep. They carried him out in their arms and loaded him onto the black minibus that was waiting for him. Only then I understood why Anatoly always moved around accompanied by four muscular assistants: as big as he was it would have been impossible for a couple of people to carry him.

THAW

Between the end of March and the early days of April, the thaw occurs in the North-West of Kazakhstan. It is the period in which the days slowly get longer, during the day a pale sun warms the snow on the roofs of the VACTA buildings and forms large and heavy stalactites - sometimes up to 2 meters long - which hang dangerously from the gutters. Very suggestive in photographs against the sun at sunset, but equally dangerous when suddenly they break away and fall to the ground. After a serious accident in which an Englishman was seriously injured in the shoulder by a falling ice stalactite, signs were put up warning people not to walk near buildings – and to be careful when entering or exiting buildings. Red and white tapes were also placed to prevent people from walking close to the walls.

UNIT 3 REFINERY

As already mentioned, Unit 3 was built by the Czechoslovaks in 1956 - at the time the Chechs were considered the most advanced among the Soviet bloc countries in terms of technology. Nonetheless, the plant had serious shortcomings and critical issues, and for this reason it was decided to adapt it to international standards, especially regarding safety. The internal roads of the plant were at a lower level than the areas of the plant itself. This caused enormous inconvenience at the time of the thaw, when the roads became real water channels. It was therefore necessary to dig drainage channels between the plant areas and the roads themselves, to allow the meltwater to flow out.

METHANOL TANK Methanol is a highly flammable liquid. One day some of our workers were pouring a concrete floor and laying curbs around the methanol tanks, with the aim of creating a containment area in case of a product spill. Unfortunately, given the lack of sensitivity to workplace safety, the refinery operators were filling the tank, while the workers were working on the floor underneath. The control of the level reached by the liquid in the tank was entrusted to an operator who stood at the top of a metal ladder and looked inside the enormous container. From time to time he signaled to his colleague, who was operating the filling pump about 200 meters away. It was cold, and also based on the correct but in some cases absurd procedures that regulated work outside in winter (every few minutes at a certain temperature and wind speed corresponded to as many minutes that the operator had to spend outside or inside a container in the heat) the operator who checked the filling went into a small house to smoke and drink tea. In the meantime, the tank had filled up, and methanol began to leak from the open manhole, flooding the area where the workers were working. Luckily someone noticed what was going on, and ran to warn the pump operator, who was also distracted at the time. The area was promptly evacuated, because the danger of fire and then explosion of the tank was very high, given the high volatility of methanol. The firefighters then intervened, flooding the area with foam to prevent the methanol from spreading into the air. Another narrow escape, but there was a risk of a serious accident, and only by chance there were no victims.

RUSSIANS Kazakhstan's independence was declared on December 16th 1991 and approved subsequently to the constitutional law, making it the last of the former Soviet states to declare its sovereignty. The Russians, who had managed the exploitation of the Karachaganak oil field since the start of the installations, abandoned Aksai and the area upon Kazakhstan's declaration of independence for fear of retaliation from the Kazakhs. We had the opportunity to visit some old wells and noticed that in the barracks where the operators lived there the situation was looking like the Russians had just fled. Tables with dishes, forks and knives, glasses, bottles of beers half empty etc..... At that time there was a lot of confusion, many of the news were false, artfully circulated by the KGB to keep the population under control. In any case, when the news that President Nazarbayev's (unilateral) declaration of Independence spread, the Russians literally fled towards the border which was a few kilometers away, and crossed the Ural River on foot, because it was frozen at the time.

Ural River.

EXPORT PIPELINE

Among the additional works that AGIP assigned to us, there was a pipeline for the export of processed crude oil, which from the refinery reached the Ural river, the border with Russia. After crossing the river (which we accomplished in the middle of winter) the Russians would continue the pipeline until the connection with the Orenburg node.

The pipeline was 20 inches dia and 22 km long. All in all not a difficult job, if not for the terrible conditions of the Kazakh winter. The people employed in the work were - logically- more inside the buses than on the ground working.

The excavation of the trench necessary to lay the pipe - more than 2.20 meters deep, the minimum limit for the product not to freeze - was extremely difficult. The frozen ground - which in summer would have allowed digging up to 1,000 - 1,200 linear meters per day - in winter conditions did not allow digging more than 200-250 linear meters per day. In the evening, colleagues returned to the office shocked by the cold, which we remember preserves fish, meat and other products, but is very harmful to human beings. It generally changes the face countour to the point that it is difficult to recognize oneself when looking in the mirror.

We finished the project with the first signs of the thaw, which hindered the work of crossing the Ural River.

ALMATY OCTOBER 6th - 2001.

I was sent on a mission to Almaty, to meet with government officials. The Tupolev's flight proceeded regularly - and when I say ''regularly'' it means accompanied by an absurd noise, sitting on benches with folding backrests. At about an hour after take-off, the Captain's voice croaked on the loudspeaker: the passengers next to us suddenly seemed alarmed, they spoke loudly and no matter how hard we two tried - me and my colleague were the only foreigners on board - we couldn't understand the reason for so much agitation. In the meantime, the plane had begun a sort of nosedive: bags, packages and all sorts of material stored above fell from the hand luggage compartments - they were not closed one, but like those on our trains and coaches. Finally the stewardess came by and informed us that the plane was going to make an emergency landing at Aktobinsk airport, but we shouldn't be worry………                                           Once landed, we were evacuated by the slides prepared by the ground staff, and two buses took all theplane's passengers to the terminal. Gathered in a small waiting room, a high-ranking military official spoke. We didn't understand anything of what he was saying, but we managed to catch the word ''bomb''. Someone called National airline office and declared that a bomb had been planted on the plane!! This was the reason for the emergency landing. A ground stewardess arrived, and in her approximate English she told us that we would be transported to a nearby hotel, while the anti-terrorism section was inspecting the aircraft. So it was, and myself and my colleague found ourselves in a hotel room, just a couple of kilometers from the airport. The hospitality was poor: a cup of tea and a couple of dry biscuits and than after an hour two KNB (formerly KGB) agents arrived to question us in Russian or Kazakh. It was not easy to convince them that we spoke neither one nor the other language, so they brought in a ''pirivochka'' (interpreter). We had to undergo the usual boring interrogation made up of questions repeated ad nauseam:

What's your name? Where do you come from? Why were you on the plane? Where are you going? And then: what did you say your name was? Where did you say you were from? The reason you were on the plane? Where are you planning to go?

It was like this for about an hour, then they left. After another couple of hours someone knocked the room door and let us know that we'll go back to the airport. The bomb threat was false, and no device had been found. Let's hope so - I said to my colleague while, after having recognized our luggage which in the meantime had been unloaded under the plane, we prepared to board again.

We eventually arrived in Almaty, and it was already night.

RETURN FROM ALMATY On October 6th, at 10.30 am we were sitting on the usual Tupolev which, according to the Captain's intentions, was to take off shortly thereafter. The snow was falling thick and sideways due to the strong wind, and incessantly covered the plane's wings despite the efforts of two teams of shovelers, one for each wing. Looking at it like this, it seemed that the snowfall was increasing in intensity by the minute. After an unequal struggle lasting more than 40 minutes, the Captain's voice crackled on the loudspeaker inside the plane and immediately the local passengers jumped up, taking their things from the nets (as already mentioned the closed overhead bins they didn't exist on the old Tupolevs). I was passed over by numerous passengers before I managed to unfasten my seat belt and get up from that sort of bench with a movable backrest that replaced the seats. We all went back inside the old terminal, where the smell of tea and vodka, mixed with that of ''schiaschlik'', was floating in the air. I asked the ground hostess for information, who, in her drawling English, told me that there was no question of taking off today - the airport had been literally submerged in snow. I managed to call our office in Aksai, and informed that we were going back to the hotel, waiting for airline further communucations. Evetually, we then fly the next day - during the night snowploughs had cleared the track: the sun was shining over the ancient capital Almaty, and the high mountains behind the city were white and shiny.

FINAL JOURNEY FROM KAZAHSTAN - XMAS 2001 - At the end of 2001, my assignement to kazakhstan ended. The plant was under Commissioning, while and we had also closed the so called ''Punch List''. I was told that I would return to Italy via Almaty, in order to meet the Italian Ambassador.

'We have booked the flight for you to Istanbul-Milan two days later, so in Almaty you can bring a present to the Italian Ambassador with our regards'' - General Director told me. I then flew to Almaty, and the next day I went to the Italian Embassy to meet His Excellency the Ambassador. He was a ''Big Man'', I would say close to sixty, jovial and friendly,and I finally got rid of the heavy Parma ham and the half wheel of Parmigiano Reggiano, which represented the ''Company's present'' for the Ambassador. Who, while his eyes were shining, thanked him exaggeratedly. This was followed by a short conversation about what our Company was doing in Aksai, and about the prospects for new projects in Kazakhstan. Than suddenly the Ambassador became sad: -Maybe it's the last time we'll see each other here – he said with a hint of melancholy in his eyes

Why, is it perhaps you're going to an another location? – I asked.

No… the Kazakh President has given the ultimatum to all the diplomatic offices in Almaty - within 60 days we will all move to the new capital, Astana.

Oh really.....I said …waiting for the rest….

No…there is nothing good in this – continued the Ambassador – Astana is one of the coldest places in Kazakhstan, lost in the steppe – Almaty – which in Kazakh means ''the place of apples'' has a much better climate, beautiful mountains behind it, and above all a very lively multi-ethnic and cultural environment, given that since the times of the Soviet Union it has been the place where intellectuals and dissidents were sent into exile. Now all this will disappear, only due to the decision of Nazarbayev, who had Astana built from scratch.

Well… I'm sorry Sir - but in any case, it will take some time, and then I'm sure that you will be able to rebuild your environment and connections even down there in the steppe.

Thank you – replied the Ambassador – but believe me, it wasn't necessary…. Thus the Ambassador left me, and shaking my hand he hoped that we would see each other again in the new headquarters of the Italian Embassy in Astana. I left the next day for a stop over in Istanbul and it was early in the morning. I sat in an airport coffee shop and had breakfast while waiting for the flight to Milan. Cappuccino, brioche and a glass of orange juice. When I asked for the bill I was shocked: 7,425,000 Turkish Lira!!! I called the waiter and asked for explanations:

Effendi 7,425,000 Turkish Lira in your currency is exactly 12 euros, thank you.

Ahh…well…ok…. The flight to Milan left regularly at 10.30 am and I arrived at Malpensa just after midday.