The Americas

Vulcan Materials Company saw increases in gross profit across its aggregates, cement, asphalt and concrete segments in 4Q13, due to increased volumes and lower operating costs.

Researchers at the MIT Concrete Sustainability Hub have found that road construction could have a significant impact on the fuel economy of cars and trucks, resulting in lower emissions.

Trinidad Cement Ltd has reported a profit after tax of US$67.3 million for 2013, compared with a loss after tax of US$388.2 million for 2012.

Claudiu Popescu, Laurentiu Ionescu and Jerry Rhodes, The Timken Company, USA, explain the significance of bearing selection and maintenance for smooth operations in severe conditions.

Dust Control Technology sponsors the ‘Carvin’ for kids’ event in Mexico and CARE International invites the construction sector to take part in its latest challenge.

Colombian domestic cement sales volumes were up 1.1% y/y in January; construction sector jobs grew by 8% in 2013.

Paraguay’s INTN has renewed Industria Nacional de Cemento’s certification according to model 5 ISO; while the country's construction industry warns of a skills shortage within the sector.

The Portland Cement Association (PCA) has applauded the US government’s decision to invest US$302 billion in the country’s Highway Trust Fund.

The North American lime producer, Graymont, installed two Primasonics acoustic cleaners at its Superior plant in Wisconsin, reducing clean up time and increasing employee safety.

Cementos Argos’ historical EBITDA grew by 24% y/y and consolidated revenue improved by 13.4% y/y in 2013.

Cat® has introduced Equipment Management Solutions, a new way of helping customers monitor, control and manage equipment

Bolivian President Evo Morales has outlined aims to lower the country’s reliance on Brazilian and Peruvian cement imports through the establishment of new cement plants, whether they be state-owned, private or cooperatives.

Fifteen US organisations have joined forces to campaign for more federal support of minerals science and information services.

Ecebol has announced a tender for the construction of a new cement plant in the state of Oruro, while Soboce outlines its expectations for the year ahead.

The Cement Association of Canada (CAC) has expressed its disappointment at the British Columbia (B.C.) government’s lack of action to address carbon tax issues, which put cement industry jobs at risk.