The Americas

Due to continued poor economic conditions, Ash Grove Cement Company has announced plans to alter operations at six of its 10 cement plants in the Midwest and Western regions of the US.

The industry giant is to supply concrete, cement, and services for US$1 billion Port of Miami Project in Florida.

Cemex-owned Ready Mix USA and Block USA have been recognised as suppliers of choice by the Alabama Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) organisation.

Cemex has announced a number of developments in the progress of its affordable housing initiative.

The USGS has released its figures for cement production, consumption and shipments in July 2011.

The Cement Association of Canada and its members have introduced a new product to the Canadian market: Contempra™. This is a new cement that decreases CO2 emissions by 10% while still producing concrete with a level of strength and durability comparable to that produced with regular Portland cement.

Yesterday’s committee passage of “Cement Sector Regulatory Relief Act of 2011” (H.R. 2681) by the House Energy and Commerce Committee illustrates the importance of putting in place regulations that protect American lives and American jobs.

FLSmidth has signed an agreement to acquire the assets of the privately owned company Knelson, a Canada based corporate partnership that is active within the minerals industries.

The North Carolina Department of Labour commend the Roanoke Cement Company’s Winston-Salem and Castle Hayne terminal sites.

Dan Harrington, President and CEO of Lehigh Hanson, Inc., and former chair of the Portland Cement Association (PCA), has argued that inaction on EPA regulations will result in the direct loss of 4000 high-paying manufacturing jobs.

The US Geological Survey has issued its report providing monthly data on the shipments of cement to final customers, and the production of clinker, in the US from January - June 2011.

Humboldt Wedag Inc., a subsidiary of KHD Humboldt Wedag, has received an order from Cimentos Liz S.A. for a new 5000 tpd kiln line in Brazil.

Votorantim Participacoes S.A. has released its 1H 2011 results.

Graham Robinson, Director, Global Construction Perspectives, UK, looks at construction prospects for Latin America in a global context.

FLSmidth has signed a share purchase agreement to acquire 100% shareholding in Phillips Kiln Service. The deal is a natural extension of FLSmidth’s Customer Services business.