Introduction to Hydraform

The Hydraform system uses portable machines to mould interlocking building blocks, under hydraulic pressure, from subsoil stabilised with cement.

The technology is established in South Africa, the birthplace of Hydraform technology, most African countries and in many countries around the world including India, South America and Australia.

This system complies with the South African National Building Regulations, satisfying the requirements for structural performance, rainwater penetration, fire protection, thermal performance and durability, and has been granted the coveted Agrément Certificate (№ 96/237).

The Benefits of Hydraform

Substantial Cost Savings
Freely-available subsoil, instead of quarry dust or clay, is the main raw material; the blocks do not require costly burning and block production takes place on site. The cost per m2 of Hydraform walling is approximately 70% that of walls built with concrete blocks. Unskilled labour can be easily trained in both block making and block building.

Speed of Construction
The Hydraform System is much faster than competitive building methods. In straight walls without door and window insertions or keyed-in interior walls, an efficient block layer is capable of laying over 800 blocks per day – 21 m2 of walling equivalent to 240 cement blocks or 2,100 common bricks.

Environmental Friendliness
A major feature of the Hydraform system; blocks are produced under high compression without the need to deplete the fuel-wood resources used in burning bricks.

Excellent Thermal Properties
Hydraform blocks have high density which, coupled with the natural thermal properties of soil, provides excellent insulation and high thermal capacity (the ability to absorb and hold heat).

High Strength
High strength has been demonstrated in Hydraform structures, showing that these are considerably stronger than those constructed from concrete blocks. Hydraform walls are highly resistant to earthquake damage.

Attractive
Face-brick finishes are achieved with standard Hydraform blocks in a variety of natural colours derived from the soil found at individual sites. The interior walls may be plastered, painted or sealed, but the attractive wall exteriors do not require additional finishing.