Cemtech Conferences & Exhibitions returned to the charming city of Prague, Czech Republic, over 29 September to 2 October 2013 to host its annual European meeting. Supported by the Czech Cement Association, the three-day event drew attracted a truly global turnout with over 200 industry specialists from Europe and beyond in attendance, including cement producers from Morocco, Libya, Guatemala, Israel and Libya.
As cement producers operating in the region continue to adapt to new market realities, proceedings centred on various measures to improve operational efficiency. “More than simply maintaining business-as-usual performance levels, producers must go further to develop strategies and adopt manufacturing technologies – particularly in relation to energy consumption – that respond to the prevailing economic realities," said Thomas Armstrong, Cemtech organiser, during his welcome speech.
Jan Gemrich, executive director of the Czech cement association, provides an overview of
the current status of the domestic market and advances by the local producers
Host country Czech Republic is a prime example of how domestic producers have adapted to difficult market trends by optimising operations and achieving lower CO2 emissions, a reduced clinker factor and more energy-efficient plants. Providing an overview of recent achievements, Jan Gemrich (pictured above), executive director of the Czech Cement Association, gave an overview of particular areas of progress, notably increasing alternative fuels utilisation levels, including significant portions of biomass. One particular source of pride for the local cement industry is the reduction in dust emissions over the last 12 years, which have decreased by a staggering 98 per cent while SO2 emissions have been slashed by 65 per cent, explained Mr Gemrich.
Conference proceedings continued with more than 20 topical presentations covering the latest global and regional market trends, management issues, best practices in respect to technical and production developments, plus advances in operations and distribution systems.
Meanwhile, a major exhibition area featuring the latest developments from leading equipment and service providers to the cement industry provided further scope for networking.
Plant tours to Cementarna Radotin (HeidelbergCement) and the Cizkovice cement plant (Lafarge) also gave delegates the opportunity to witness first-hand advances being made by two of Europe’s leading cement majors.
Cementarna Radotin (HeidelbergCement) |
Cizkovice cement plant (Lafarge) |
Extensive hospitality included lunches, evening receptions and a superb Gala Dinner, featuring fine dining, music and entertainments. Meanwhile, a sightseeing tour was arranged for accompanying partners to view some of the many historic sights and scenic delights the magnificent city of Prague has to offer.
For a full Cemtech Europe 2013 conference review, click here.
Companies exhibiting at Cemtech Europe 2013:
