New plant with emission reducing manufacturing process

Brüninghoff is now expanding its location in Heiden considerably by a new precast concrete plant. However, in this regard, it is not the size that is a decisive factor – on the contrary, it is the trailblazing concept of the manufacturing process. For one thing, recycled concrete will be brought into series production here. For another thing, this process is consequently oriented towards low emission.

Currently, Brüninghoff is investing around €10 million in a new precast concrete plant at the location in Heiden in the Münsterland region of Germany. Hence, enhanced production capacities and additional modern workplaces will be created by 2023. The new plant pursues a sustainable overall approach: In future, concrete with a proportion of up to 45 percent of recycled aggregates will be processed here – this is so far quite rarely seen in series prefabrication throughout Germany. Then, wood-concrete composite floor systems including preliminary setup for heating and cooling segments, among other things, will be produced in large series in Heiden. The innovative floor elements of the specialist in hybrid construction are used in major projects across Europe already today – being produced with recycled concrete from 2023 onwards, too. Recycled aggregates will also be the first choice for all other applications, where standardization permits it. „In the future, it is moreover conceivable that even higher proportions of recycled aggregates will be possible, especially for structural components which are not subject to high static loads – or columns with larger dimensions so as to enable the higher proportion of recycled aggregates. We will have to wait and see which approvals will be granted,“ states Brüninghoff‘s general manager Frank Steffens. At present, Brüninghoff is already in contact with renowned demolition companies in order to assure the supply of recycled aggregates of type 1. They are simultaneously working on an exact mix design using CEM II and CEM III. Because CEM I is to be omitted here owing to its energy-intensive production process. CEM II and CEM III cements feature a lower clinker content. As a result, CO₂ emissions will be reduced in the production process – an important aspect for a consequent orientation towards a low-emission process. Electric vehicles for transport, charging stations installed on the factory premises and a process water cistern which minimizes the groundwater consumption in the manufacturing process are likewise included in the sustainable overall approach.

DGNB certification aspired

The factory planned on the about 31,000 m² property at Siemensstraße has a floor space of approx. 17,000 m². Here space will be provided for several production lines as well as a circulation system. Whereas previously about 6,000 to 7,000 m³ of concrete were processed, a production capacity of up to 25,000 m³ will be possible in future. The three-bay industrial hall being erected in Heiden will meet even highest demands on sustainability – therefore, the company is aiming at a building certification in accordance with environmental, economic and social criteria of the German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB – Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen). Against this background, for example, the deconstruction of the building has been considered in planning right from the beginning.

Hence, the new plant also reflects the sustainability standard of Brüninghoff. This is firmly anchored in the corporate philosophy. As a consequence, the environmental management system of Brüninghoff is certified according to ISO 14001. All processes are continuously reviewed in respect of ecology, economy and social aspects. „We are aware that the construction industry is an enormous leverage for reaching the climate protection targets. The entire sector must increasingly deal with occurring emissions, but also with recycling,“ Steffens demands.