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In the
1950's, a large furniture manufacturing factory was built
in central Africa for a European firm, designed to serve both
the expanding local market and export to Europe. The factory
had a dedicated rail siding, the ownership of a lumber forest,
and excellent equipment. In the 1970's the factory was nationalised
by the government, and the expatriate staff returned home.
Despite good local management and steady demand, the 70+ machines
suffered inadequate maintenance and within 15 years the output
had dropped by 95%.
With the
active participation of both the Swedish and Norwegian aid
authorities, DIAK was appointed to redesign and rebuild the
factory in two major phases. The old machinery was solid and
not badly worn, but virtually all electric and moving parts
were useless. The first stage was to survey the realistic
economic chances of reviving the machines. DIAK completed
the survey, specified modern motors and tooling, and rebuilt
the moving parts to resuscitate 90% of the machines.
A new
drying kiln was designed to fit into an unused framed building,
then built as a kit for DIAK in the Netherlands and assembled
on site by DIAK engineers. A modern sprayshop using advanced
finishes was designed and installed. The old sewing centre
was cannibalised and reformed into an upholstery shop. A modern
Italian high speed production sander was installed to improve
the finish of surfaces. A high pressure pneumatic circuit
was laid around the factory. Finally all parts of the factory
were joined together by an overhead extraction system, carefully
designed to remove both the heavy chippings and fine sandings
without fire risk.
The total
project lasted 4 years and returned the factory to 95%+ capacity
production. Their first major order was to successfully equip
a new international hotel being built in the capital. DIAK
then introduced the new management to furniture buyers in
Europe to assist them recommence the export drive.
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