Room to grow

As the city skyline continues to grow and change, the demands on the construction industry have become greater. Not only has the quantity of building material increased, but so too has the level of skill required to erect buildings that cater for today's economic challenges.

Since it began over 25 years ago, Auckland Steel has continued to expand its production ability, so that it can now produce 150 tonnes of steel a week. Greater capacity has resulted in the building of custom-designed premises in Wiri, Auckland. At 4,000m², the company owners forecast the building will double in size in five years.

Auckland Steel's primary role of Steltech Portal Frame construction has led the company to create four divisions: estimating, draughting, fabrication and erection. This basic company structure is reflected in the layout of its two-storey complex.

A large, open-plan office on the floor above the reception and administration area houses the estimating and draughting departments. Clear sight lines across the office interior ensure staff can interact easily between departments. This informality is further enhanced by the location of a kitchen in the centre of the room.

Connected to the office is the factory floor, which is two storeys high and divided into five production lines. Raw steel enters the factory at one end and depending upon which line it is allocated to can be transformed into anything from structural steel members to truck trailers and decorative steel gates.

The new premises have enabled Auckland Steel not only to expand its range of products, but also to guarantee faster turnaround time and a more cost-effective manufacturing process.

For information, contact Auckland Steel, 11bVogler Dr, Wiri, Auckland, phone (09) 250 0790, fax (09) 250 0799. Website: www.aucklandsteel.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas