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Application of Value Engineering approach for Improving the Quality and

Productivity of Ready-Mixed Concrete (Used in Construction and Hydraulic
Projects)

Thesis · September 2015

DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.24733.41444

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 Application of Value Engineering approach for Improving the Quality
and Productivity of Ready-Mixed Concrete
(Used in Construction and Hydraulic Projects)

Adel Mohamed El-Baghdady 1, Dr. Walid Sayed Abdulgalil2, Prof Dr. Ahmad Asran3,
Prof Dr. Ibrahim Nosier4
1 Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University & Cairo-Egypt
2 Assistant professor, Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University & Cairo-Egypt
3 Professor, Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Al-Azhar University & Cairo-Egypt
4 Professor, Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University& Cairo-Egypt

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Abstract - This paper studies the effectiveness of applying 1. INTRODUCTION
value engineering to actual concrete mixtures. The study
was conducted in the State of Qatar on a number of Concrete is a key element in construction projects
strategic construction projects with international around the world. It is one of the elements that account
engineering specifications for the 2022 World Cup projects.
The study examined the concrete mixtures of Doha Metro for the highest cost in any construction project [1]. Due
project and the development of KAHRAMAA’s (Qatar to the lack of sources of raw materials used in this key
Electricity and Water Company) Abu Funtas Strategic industry, the increase of ready-mixed concrete
Desalination Plant, in order to generally improve the quality demands, and the increase of competition in
and productivity of ready-mixed concrete used in
construction and hydraulic projects. The application of manufacturing, certain competitive advantages had to
value engineering to such concrete mixtures resulted in the be provided in order to maintain the continuity of
following: ready-mixed concrete production plants and increase
 Improving the quality of concrete mixtures and increasing its market share (quality and productivity), while
the durability of buildings in which they are used;
 Reducing the waste of excess materials of concrete improving the environmental impact, maximizing the
mixture, optimizing the use of resources, and enhancing effectiveness of resource use and promoting
sustainability; sustainability.
 Reducing the use of cement, thus reducing CO2 emissions
which ensures the protection of environment and public Ready-mixed concrete production plants that take part
health;
in providing supplies for engineering strategic projects
 Reducing actual costs of concrete mixtures and, in turn,
reducing the costs of construction projects; and that follow international standards have been chosen
 Increasing the market share and competitiveness of to be the subject of study and application of value
concrete producers. management methodology for improving quality and
This research shows that applying the methodology of value
increasing productivity.
engineering to ready-mixed concrete is an effective way to
save around 5% of the total cost of concrete mixtures
supplied to construction and hydraulic projects, improve the Value engineering is an innovative method for
quality according to the technical requirements and as per improving the costs of the project lifecycle, saving time,
the standards and specifications for ready-mixed concrete, and reducing construction project costs [2]. It is one of
improve the environmental impact, and promote the effective methods of increasing the profits of
sustainability.
companies and plants working in the field of
 Key Words: construction products manufacturing and expanding
their market shares, while taking into consideration
 Value management. the use of resources more effectively [3].
 Quality improvement. Value engineering is a systematic and creative
 Reducing cost of concrete mixtures. approach that aims for balancing between cost and
 Reducing use of cement in concrete.
performance, by searching for any unnecessary
 Concrete performance
expenses, in order to reach a decision that aims for
 Durability requirements.
 Optimizing the use of resources. omitting such costs without affecting the main task,
 Enhancing sustainability and environmental impact.
hence the importance of value engineering as a link consultant's negligence in considering the geological
between tasks, quality and cost [4]. properties of the soil and project site.

The prices and components of ready-mixed concrete This leads to an increase in production costs and
produced by concrete plants differ according to the consumption of unnecessary materials, which in turn
properties required for the concrete mixture and the leads to an increase in cost of construction projects and
desired performance, as per the project requirements a decrease in the market share of the concrete
[5].Concrete mixtures are the core of the production production plant. This is detrimental to material
for which the plant was established to achieve certain sustainability and the environment due to the
strategic and economic objectives [1]. Therefore, the increased use of cement quantities required for
increase of productivity and the improvement of concrete production, which leads to an increase in CO2
quality, without the increase in cost, may, to a great emissions.
extent, affect the prices of such mixtures. Moreover,
saving the slightest amount used in one cubic meter of One of the most significant solutions was the reduction
the produced concrete can generally result in a great of cement quantities or the addition of natural
saving in production [5], provided that such saving in pozzolanic materials in concrete mixtures, based on
materials may not affect the required quality of the research and studies by the American NRMCA and the
final products and should comply with the standard Canadian ECO-SMART. Cement plants around the
specifications for concrete. world account for 7% of CO2 emissions [6]. The
production of one ton of ordinary Portland cement
Based on the above analysis of concrete mixtures, their (OPC) or sulphate-resistant cement results in
components and properties required for delivering the approximately 1.0 ton to 2.0 ton of CO2 [7], which leads
desired performance, it was essential for researchers to an increase in global warming, causes more damage
to apply value engineering in order to find effective and to the environment, heightens the risk of respiratory
feasible solutions to reduce costs, maintain the quality diseases, such as asthma, lung cancer, kidney failure,
at least, find effective ways for avoiding the waste of and other serious diseases. Moreover, the reduction of
excess materials, in a manner that achieves CO2 improves the evaluation of the construction project
sustainability of resources and protection of in Green Building Assessment Systems.
environment, as well achieve competitive advantages
1.2 Objectives
for concrete producers.
This paper aims to verify whether or not the
1.1 Research Phenomenon application of value engineering to concrete mixtures
produced in ready-mixed concrete plants, in order to
In order to avoid the failure of specimens that are put improve the quality and productivity of ready-mixed
to compressive strength tests, and to avoid the used in construction and hydraulic projects, achieves
inefficiency of the adopted quality plan, as well as to the following:
fulfill the project consultant's requirements, many  Improving the quality of concrete mixtures and
concrete production plants, when developing concrete increasing the durability of buildings in which they
are used;
mixtures, add quantities of unnecessary and excess
 Reducing the waste of excess materials of concrete
cement materials (over design) when producing one mixture, optimizing the use of resources, and
cubic meter of concrete. enhancing sustainability;
 Reducing the use of cement, thus reducing CO2
This results in the use of concrete types that are not emissions which ensures the protection of
required, due to the excessive use of mixing environment and public health;
components, which gives extremely high results in  Reducing actual costs of concrete mixtures and, in
compressive strength tests and durability turn, reducing the costs of construction projects; and
requirements. The results exceed the specified quality  Increasing the market share and competitiveness of
requirements when compared to the standard concrete producers.
specifications or special requirements of the project.
2. Hypotheses
This occurs due to the inadequacy of the quality plan
and technical team at the plant, or the project
The study of economic and financial aspects of the productivity continues to decline and no profits are
production of concrete mixtures supplied to earned. Therefore, the concerned management had
construction projects is of equal importance as the to always seek ways to develop productivity, explore
study of the technical and engineering aspects. Such the factors necessary for increasing such
aspects are the main element through which the productivity, and investigate the causes and
producer can reach its strategic goals [8]. remedies of the decline [13]. Thus, it is essential to
Value engineering is one of the supporting fields and examine the factors that affect productivity. They are
a major element that aims for adjusting the balance as follows:
between cost, performance, quality and productivity
in manufacturing construction products, such as 1- Top management of the ready-mixed concrete
ready-mixed concrete [9]. plant – Such management is aware of the company's
The application of value engineering methodology is objectives, works on achieving such objectives and
of great importance to the owners of ready-mixed has a significant role in performing the following
concrete plants. This methodology can achieve an [15]:
actual reduction in cost of concrete mixtures, while  Defining productivity rates and protecting and
maintaining the quality at the least [10]. preserving the company's resources
It is essential that the total cost (life cycle cost) of  Searching for alternative markets or new clients, and
materials used in ready-mixed concrete studying the way of decreasing the costs for the
manufacturing, with regard to transportation, company.
storage, operation and supply to the construction  Identifying the objectives, achieving clarity at work,
site, be taken into consideration when calculating the choosing the most appropriate methods for
total cost, instead of depending on the initial cost [1]. accomplishing such objectives, and utilizing the
This is effectively beneficial in the evaluation process available elements of production in the most efficient
and for facilitating the comparison between the way.
different materials used in manufacturing concrete  Dealing with change, developing production
mixtures. conditions and forecasting market fluctuation.
The quality of materials used in concrete mixtures  Controlling the use of human and material resources
does not depend solely on the choice of the source. and providing the required interaction and
Rather, it is an integrated process[11] (quality plan) coordination.
that starts from developing a concrete mixture that  Promoting cooperation between workers.
complies with the project requirements, then 2-Labor and employees at the company–It is
choosing the sources of materials that possess the important to pay attention to the human element,
physical and chemical properties needed for the which is the main yardstick for any establishment to
required performance, as per the project succeed and achieve its goals, as well as use such
requirements. The process goes further to the resources effectively. This can be accomplished by
management of such materials, and transporting appointing employees in their proper positions, and
them from the source to the plant, in a manner that treating them in a manner that gives them a sense of
does not affect their properties. The process also importance at the workplace. The productivity
includes the method of storing and testing such process involves multiple elements. However, what
materials, as part of the quality control and quality actually controls such process is the individual
insurance process, during and after production, until performance of an employee. Appointing an
the final delivery of the concrete mixture to the site unqualified employee to operate an expensive
[12]. The increase of productivity together with the machine may cause damage to the machine and
quality, while reducing the cost, is the basic criterion reduce its efficiency [14].
for success in accomplishing the objectives aspired
by the management of any establishment or
company[13]. Productivity in ready-mixed concrete,
for instance, is the relationship between the input
(raw material) of the production process, on the one
hand, and the output, on the other hand (concrete).
The higher the percentage of the concrete produced
from the resources to the user, the higher the
production efficiency of a plant [14].
When the productivity of ready-mixed concrete is
An overview of Abu Funtas Strategic A map showing some details of Doha
negatively affected, this, in turn, will lead to the Desalination Plant, KAHRAMAA, Qatar Metro project - Qatar
closing of the plant, as there will be no point if
 3- Equipment and tools used in the production https://www.qr.com.qa/English/Projects/Pages/Re
process – Factors that are involved in the selection of dLine.aspx.
production equipment and tools should be taken into The second mixture is (C35-OPC+40%GGBFS) supplied
consideration. The method of estimating the
to KAHRAMAA's Strategic Desalination Plant (Abu
productivity of such equipment should be
determined by studying the life cycle cost of different Funtas)https://www.qewc.com/qewc/en/index.php/8
equipment [16], in order to allow for an easy 1-other/127-qatar-projectsmagazine. The plant is part
decision-making process through a scientifically of Qatar Vision 2030, aiming to produce 36 million
based comparison. gallons of water per day. The project costs USD 405
million.
4- Raw materials – Selection of materials used in Research in the practical part of the study tackled
concrete manufacturing is a core component for
some concrete mixtures produced by the plants that
concrete to meet the intended properties [17. If the
quality of materials is not verified, and their take part in the abovementioned strategic projects.
properties are not identified, the company will not be One of ready-mixed concrete producers was chosen
able to achieve its strategic goals. Therefore, for applying the value engineering study. Then,
specialized and highly efficient individuals should be certain mixtures, produced by the plant in question,
responsible for carrying out such process, and they were selected in order to illustrate how value
spare no effort attempting to seek new sources at engineering is applied.
reasonable prices and with suitable properties [18],
Ready-mixed concrete supplied to construction,
which will help meet the required performance of the
concrete mixture. hydraulic or other projects is typically divided into
two types:
5- Processes, such as purchasing and handling, 1-Noramal Concrete Mixes
transportation, operation, mixing, manufacturing and 2-Durable Concrete Mixes
production, quality control, testing, delivery and Concrete mixtures should perform the required
feedback from client; the management and the
function in accordance with the project requirements,
integration of all such processes facilitate
improvement, [13] which is significantly reflected on and in line with the standards and project
the production process and its development. specifications of ready-mixed concrete [20]. Such
requirements are classified into two categories, one or
6- Studying the risks – Identifying risks expected to both of which should be fulfilled according to the type
occur during the management and production of the of the abovementioned concrete, so that the required
ready-mixed concrete, as well as developing effective performance and purpose can be achieved. They are as
methods for avoiding the occurrence of such risks at
follows:
any production phase, is significantly important, so
that the whole production process would not be 1- Concrete specimens must meet the target mean
affected due to the lack of study of such risks, [19] strength when testing the compressive strength, after
which may have an impact on the company's 28 days of casting and curing concrete cubes. This is
continuity in the market. one of the conditions for achieving the required
performance [21] according to the project
2.1 Methodology requirements.
The study examined some concrete mixtures supplied “Target Mean Strength” shall mean the specified
to two construction projects: characteristic strength plus the margin [21].
The first concrete mixture is (C50-OPC), supplied to “Margin” shall mean the difference between the
Doha Metro project which extends to 241 km through specified characteristic strength and the target mean
four main lines. It consists of 106 stations, and is strength [21].
valued at USD 8.2 billion. Phase 1 started in 2013 and “Strength test or strength test result” the average of
ends in 2019. It is one of the strategic projects of 2022 two or more single-cylinder or cube strengths of
World Cup in Qatar. specimens made from the same concrete sample and
tested at the same age[22].
The study was based on the concrete mixtures (for
2- In some concrete mixtures, it may be required that
the red line) which extends to 42 km and consists of
samples meet durability requirements, as per the
18 stations, as shown on this link
specified project specifications, after 28, 56 or 90 days
[21].
"The durability of concrete" may be defined as the
ability of concrete to resist weathering action, chemical
attack, and abrasion while maintaining its desired
engineering properties [23].
Different concretes require different degrees of
durability depending on the exposure environment and
the properties desired [22].
Given the above, concrete specimens should meet one Fig -1: Details of OPC-C50 which is required for Doha
Metro project.
or both of the above requirements according to the
mixture type and function, in order to achieve the Testing the quality of the concrete mixture C50-
desired performance as per the project requirements OPC: Tests were conducted on the C50-OPC mixture
[20]. Therefore, materials that have the proper illustrated in Figure (1), in order to confirm whether
characteristics should be selected for performing the they comply with the standards and specifications, and
intended function, in conformity with the established how far they meet the project requirements, including
project specifications, and in a manner that maintains aggregate testing, as per QCS 2010 [21] and BSEN
the required quality at least without increasing 12620[26] specifications, in addition to the testing of
production costs. This analysis is a good starting point fresh concrete properties, which all complied with the
for studying how value engineering can be applied to specifications. Furthermore, the compressive strength
concrete mixtures. of concrete cubes made of C50-OPC was tested and
The plan for applying value engineering can be compared to the standard concrete specifications,
outlined as follows [24]: producing the results listed in Figures (2) and (3), in
A. Information – collecting the facts. order to compare the compressive strength test results
B. Function analysis – evaluating the alternatives. to the project requirements after a statistical analysis
C. Idea generation – brainstorming alternatives. (as per specification ACI 214-R-02) [27].
D. Evaluation – selecting the best alternative.
E. Development – developing the alternative. Analysis of the compressive strength test results of
F. Presentation and recommendation – the final the original mixture C50-OPC: Figures (2) and (3)
report. show that the compressive strength test conducted on
The above steps shall be applied to the selected a sample of 30 cubes produced an average reading of
concrete mixtures in order to conduct the study as 70.3 MPa. The highest reading of compressive strength
follow: was 72.0 MPa. The standard deviation was 0.4 and the
A. Information – collecting the facts: This phase coefficient of variation was 0.5. Such results were
entails the formation of an information base regarding adequate for the mixture to satisfy the project
concrete mixtures, the subject of the study, its specifications, i.e. the cement quantity was not less
components and the project to which such mixtures than 370 kg/m3, in order to achieve the target mean
will be supplied, and its specifications. This aims for strength, which complies with the specifications.
collecting as much as possible to allow the team of the
• However, it was evident from the producer's design
value engineering to have a broad perspective [25].
of the concrete that it contained an amount of 410
Details of the first concrete mixture, C50-OPC: kg/m3, as shown in Figure (1).

• The specifications of concrete set certain criteria and

calculations for evaluating the compressive strength
test results according to the Qatari specifications (QCS
2010) and (ACI 214-R-02), as detailed below:

If - f’cr > 35 MPa use f’cr =fc +1.34 Std

or f’cr =0.90fc +2.33 Std
* Use the large value computed from any equation [21]
, where f’cr: is the target mean strength, and Std: is
the standard deviation

This was used in calculating the target mean strength

as per the mixture specifications. The results were as
follows:

f’cr =fc +1.34 STD f’cr = 50+1.34 x 0.4 =50.5 MPa

f’cr =0.90fc +2.33 Std f’cr =0.90x50+2.33 x0

The project requires that the average of the Fig -3: Details of Compressive strength test results of OPC-
compressive strength test results, based on the above 50 concrete cubes required for Doha Metro project with a
statistical analysis, as per (ACI 214-R-02) (Contd.).
equations, exceed 50.5 MPa at the minimum, according
to the specifications. However, Figures (2) and (3) Evaluation and conclusion of compressive strength
show that the average of the compressive strength test test results to mix C50-OPC in light of the value
results of cubes after 28 days was 70.3 MPa. This engineering: Figure (4), which illustrates the
means that the requirements and specifications of the evaluation of the compressive strength of samples
project are fulfilled, as illustrated by the graph below taken from the C50-OPC concrete mixture, shows that
(Figure 4). the results comply with the requirements specified
according to the standards and specifications, and
provided in the signed contract.

Fig -4: Details of Evaluation of compressive strength test

results of OPC-50 concrete cubes required for Doha Metro
project with a statistical analysis, as per (ACI 214-R-02).

The compressive strength test requires that results

exceed 50.5 MPa only as per the specifications.
However, the average result of the concrete supplied to
the project was 70.3 MPa. Compared to the above value
(50.5 MPa), there is a difference or variance, as shown
in Figure (4) by approximately 20 MPa, between the
Fig -2: Details of Compressive strength test results of OPC- specifications established in the project and the results
C 50 concrete cubes required for Doha Metro project with of the compressive strength test results. This is around
a statistical analysis, as per (ACI 214-R-02).
40% higher than the required value (50.5/20). It would
have been sufficient if the results exceeded 50.5 MPa
only as per the specifications.
Such increase in compressive strength test results of compressive strength test, according to the project
concrete cubes by nearly 20 MPa against the target standard specifications (ACI 214-R-02) and (QCS
mean strength reflects the company's use of excess 2010), as follows:
materials (over design) [20]. This is abundantly clear
If f’cr <= 35 MPa use f’cr =fc +1.34 Std
when reviewing the project requirements, which state
that cement quantity in the mixture should not be less or f’cr =fc +2.33 Std-3.5
than 370 kg/m3, and when comparing it to the cement Use the large value computed from any equation [21]
quantity of 410 kg/m3 provided in the design of the by calculating the target mean strength according to
concrete mixture supplied to the Doha Metro project the standard specifications provided in the project
(Figure 1). requirements of this concrete mixture, the results were
as follows:
The Second Concrete Mixture (C35 - OPC + 40%
GGBFS): f’cr =fc +1.34 Std f’cr = 35+1.34 x 0.4 x 1.08
= 35.60 MPa
f’cr = fc +2.33 Std -3.5 f’cr = 35+2.33 x0.4 x 1.08 - 3.5
= 32.5 MPa
The project requirements and specifications state that
the average readings of the compressive strength test
should not be less than 35.6 MPa. As illustrated in
Figure (6), the results of concrete cube compressive
strength test exceed the average provided in the
project requirements. The average was 54 MPa, which
is higher than the required average, i.e. 35.6 MPa only.
Evaluation and conclusion of compressive strength
test results in light of the value engineering applied
Fig -5: Details of Second Concrete Mixture (C35 -OPC+
40% GGBFS) supplied to Ras abu Funtas Strategic to (C35 - OPC + 40% GGBFS): Figure (7) shows that
Desalination Plant. the results comply with the requirements specified
Testing the quality of the concrete mixture (C35 - according to the standard specifications. The average
OPC + 40% GGBFS):Tests were conducted on the was 54 MPa, i.e. more than the required 35.6MPa.
mixture in question, which is illustrated in Figure (5), The results of concrete cube tests of durability
in order to confirm whether they complied with the requirements also comply with the specifications, and
standard specifications. Aggregates were also tested do not go below the project requirements as shown in
and compared to the specifications QCS 2010 and BSEN Table (1) in the final report.
12620, in addition to the testing of fresh concrete As per the project requirements, the compressive
properties, which all complied with the specifications. strength test requires that the results are not less than
Furthermore, the compressive strength of concrete 35.6 MPa. However, the results of the compressive
cubes made of the C35 - OPC + 40% GGBFS supplied strength conducted on samples taken from the
mixture was tested and compared to the standard concrete supplied to the project were 54.0 MPa, i.e.
concrete specifications, producing the results listed in higher that the required value 35.6 MPa according to
Figures (6) after conducting a statistical analysis and the specifications. Also, the actual results were higher
evaluating the results as per specification (ACI 214-R- by 20MPa than the required value, as illustrated in
02). Figure (7).
Such difference between the required value, as per the
Analysis of the compressive strength test results of
specifications, and the results of actual compressive
the original mixture (C35 - OPC + 40% GGBFS):
strength by nearly 20 MPa reflects the company's use
Figure (6) shows that the compressive strength test
of excess materials (over design) [20]. It would have
conducted on a sample of 20 cubes produced an
been sufficient if the results exceeded a maximum of
average reading of 54 MPa. The highest reading of
35.6 MPa only as per the specifications.
compressive strength was 56 MPa. The standard
Use of unnecessary materials in producing one-cubic-
deviation was 0.4 and the coefficient of variation was
meter of ready-mixed concrete cost the company
0.7. Such results were adequate for the mixture to meet
amounts of excess materials that could have been used
the required objective of the concrete mixture
in producing other concrete quantities or in reducing strength test results of concrete cubes, which in turn
the production costs of one-cubic-meter of ready- causes a significant difference or variance between the
mixed concrete. required results as per the specifications and the actual
results of samples taken from concrete supplied to the
projects, the study shows that there are multiple
reasons behind such difference, the most significant of
which is the use of cement quantities that are more
than needed [25].
Reducing the quantity of unnecessary materials that
are used in concrete mixture production, especially the
most expensive and most environmentally damaging
cement [6], will lead to the reduction of concrete
mixture production costs and construction projects
respectively.
Such reduction in the unnecessary material shall not
be achieved unless the functions of the concrete
mixtures have been analyzed, in order to identify each
and every component used in producing such mixtures,
and which fulfills the required performance. This shall
be carried out by using the Function Analysis System
Technique (FAST), through which the main permanent
and secondary functions of the mixtures are defined, as
Fig -6: Details of Compressive strength test results of C 35 well as the functions of all elements involved, and the
–OPC+40% GGBS concrete cubes supplied to Abu Funtas optimal goal, the effective function and the study field
Strategic Desalination Plant using a statistical analysis, as
are identified [3]. The team of value engineering then
per (ACI 214-R-02).
selects the functions to be studied, which have a
positive impact on the quality, improves productivity,
and involves cost reduction. The FAST method is
illustrated in Figure (8) below:

Fig -7: Details of Evaluation of compressive strength test

results of C 35 –OPC+40% GGBS concrete cubes required for
required for Abu Funtas Strategic Desalination Plant using a
statistical analysis, as per (ACI 214-R-02).
B. Function analysis – evaluation of alternatives:
The various functions of mixtures, the subject of the
study, are defined, analyzed and divided into main and
Fig -8: An outline of FAST for concrete mixtures (Source:
secondary functions. Functions to be studied, and author).
which will have a positive impact on quality and
C. Speculation phase- brainstorming of
productivity at the lowest cost possible, are chosen [2].
alternatives: is to find new ideas and ways to realize
Through the above review of the results of
the secondary functions. The value engineering team
compressive strength of the first and second concrete
members uses brainstorming to put forward ideas
mixtures, and by using data analysis methods to study
and proposals for each ingredient or material of the
the reasons for the discrepancy in the compressive
mix in order to realize the secondary function figure. Accordingly, the value engineering team will
(performance) and then the goal of study (Improve develop the concrete mixes under study using the
the quality and productivity) [4]. proposal to reduce the quantity of cement materials.
By using value engineering, several proposals are put The team will then verify the concrete mix properties
forward to achieve the secondary functions as per the required specifications after applying the
(Performance) that realize the main objective of the value engineering proposal and whether this affects
study (improving quality and productivity). All positively or negatively on the concrete mix.
proposals are evaluated and advantages and E. Development -- development of proposal: It is a
disadvantages of each proposal compared to the other step to transfer ideas and proposals approved in the
proposals set forth in the study shall be determined. previous step to a specific plan of work by the value
The weighted evaluation matrix shown in Figure (9) engineering team [4]. As such, the proposal to reduce
below, are used. the amount of cement in concrete mixes study is
The preparation of standard evaluation matrix depends developed, after proving that the cement is the best
on the experience of the team work and criteria chosen proposal and then the mixes will be evaluated before
to give preference to various proposals in order to and after the proposed amendment.
compare among the ingredients forming the concrete E-1- Development of the first cement mix C50-OPC
mix and the importance of each ingredient in achieving after the application of value engineering as
the performance required. The following criteria were follows:
chosen to give preference among various proposals as
follows:
1-Consistency & Workability. 2- Heat Generation
and Temperature. 3- Ease of Modification.
4- Strength gain. 5- Cost.
Figure (9) illustrates the standard evaluation as sample
for a concrete mix under study (C50-OPC) to explain
the evaluation process among proposals as follows:

Fig -10: shows illustrates the details of concrete mix

C50 - OPC supplied to Doha Metro Project after Development.
Figure (10) illustrates the concrete mix C50-OPC
supplied to Doha Metro Project after development. As
many as 20 kg of cement per cubic meter was reduced
and the rest of quantities of other ingredients were
changed to equalize the cubic meter.
Quality Verification Process of the concrete mix
C50-OPC after applying the Value Engineering
Fig -9: shows example the weighted Evaluation Matrix model
Proposal: Verification tests have been carried out to
(Apply to the concrete mix C50 - OPC and its ingredients)
(Source: author) verify the properties of new concrete mix after
applying the value engineering proposal in order to
D. Evaluation phase - choosing best proposal: This
ensure that it conforms to the prescribed standards
step aims at studying and analyzing all ideas, which has
been mentioned in aforesaid stage. It is certain that and to ascertain that it fulfill the required performance
according to the requirements of the project. The
there are several inappropriate and unrealistic ideas,
which should be excluded [3], as they cannot be properties of new concrete have been checked and
results of aggregates have been compared according to
applied practically. Based on Figure 9, it is clear that
QCS 2014 & BSEN12620. The results have been
the proposal for reducing the percentage of cement
conformed to specifications. To make sure of the
materials in the mix is the highest value within the
compressive strength test results, figure (11)
value engineering proposals set forth in the above
illustrates the compressive strength test results of 15 MPa. According to Figure (11), the average
no’s cubes taken from the concrete mix C50-OPC after compressive strength test results of the cubes after 28
applying the value engineering proposal and reducing days and applying the proposed reduction of cement
the percentage of cement. In addition, the statistical are 66.3 MPa. This means that the new design fulfill the
analysis was conducted and evaluated according to ACI requirements and specifications of the project,
214- R-02. And the application of value engineering on concrete
mix C50-OPC and the proposal to reduce cement in the
concrete mix under study does not negatively affect the
properties of the required mix. Figures (12 & 13)
illustrate the differences between quantities used in
the concrete mix before and after applying the value
engineering proposal. The prices were as follows:

Fig -12: illustrates the quantities of concrete mix C50- OPC

after and before the application of value engineering
proposals (Source: author).
Fig -11: illustrates the compressive strength test results of 15
cubes taken from the concrete mix C50-OPC after applying
the value engineering proposal and conducting the statistical
analysis according to ACI 214- R-02.
By analyzing results of the new concrete mix design
C50-OPC: The Figure (11) illustrates that the
compressive strength test results of concrete mix
samples after applying the proposal of value
engineering by reducing the amount of cement were
compatible with specifications. The average results of
15 cubes are 64.4 MPa and the highest result was 66.3
MPa, the standard deviation hit 0.6, and the difference
coefficient is 1.0.
These results are sufficient to realize the required
criteria of the mix in line with the calculations as per
the standard specifications as follows:
f’cr =fc +1.34 Std f’cr = 50+1.34 x 0.6 x 1.16 =
50.9 MPa and when f’cr =0.90fc +2.33 Std
f’cr =0.90x50+2.33 x 1.16 x 0.6=46.6 MPa
According to the requirements and specifications of the
project, the average results should not be less than 50.9
 Fig -14: illustrates the new concrete mix design details C35-
OPC+40%GGBFS required for Ras Abu Funtas desalination
plant.
Figure (14) illustrates the details of concrete mix C35 /
20 - OPC + 40% GGBFS after the application of value
engineering proposal and reduction of cement by 15
kg/m3, in addition to replacing 40% of the cement by
40% with environmentally friendly substance GGBFS.
Quality Control Verification Process of concrete
mix C50-OPC after applying the value engineering
proposal: This process is meant to ensure the new
concrete mix design after the application of the value
engineering proposal in order to ensure that it
Fig -13: illustrates details of comparing prices, quantities of conforms to the prescribed standards and to ascertain
concrete mix C50–OPC of supplied to Doha Metro Project that it fulfill the required performance according to the
before and after development.
requirements of the project. Tests were conducted to
In view of the above, the new concrete mix design C50- make sure of the properties of the new concrete and
OPC after the application of value engineering and results of aggregates have been compared according to
reduction of cement proposals has not adversely QCS 2014 & BSEN12620; the results have been
affected the properties of the mix required, but the conformed to specifications.
proposals have positive effects. Furthermore, the The results of concrete cubes tests to verify durability
required quality was fulfilled according to were compatible with the specifications and will be set
specifications and the new mix managed to reduce a forth in the final report (Table 1). To confirm the
quantity of 20 kg/m3 of the most harmful to the compressive strength test results, Figure (15)
environment and expensive cement. This quantity can illustrates the results of 15 cubes for concrete mix C35-
be used in the production of other quantities of OPC + 40% GGBFS under study. The results were
concrete mix produced, compared and evaluated after carrying out the
The application of value engineering managed to statistical analysis as per ACI 214-R-02.
achieve saving in the price of mix nearly (15 QR = 4.0
USD) per cubic meter of the ready-mixed concrete as
shown in Figure (13 & 12). This enhances the
importance of the value engineering application to
improve the quality and productivity of ready-made
concrete in this type of concrete mix.
E-2- Develop the second concrete mix C35-
OPC+40%GGBFS after applying the value
engineering proposal:
 The application of value engineering to concrete mix
C35-OPC + 40% GGBS and the proposal for reducing
the amount of cement in the concrete mix under study
did not negatively affect the quality of the required mix,
but it has a positive impact on the mix.
In addition to reducing the amount of cement by 15
kg/m 3 of the concrete mix supplied to the project,
there is a saving in the price per cubic meter
(approximately 17.0 QAR = USD 5.0). The following
figure (17 & 16) shows the difference in prices and
quantities before and after the application of value
engineering to the previous mix as follows:

Fig -15: Illustrates the details of compressive strength test

results of concrete mix cubes C35-OPC+40% GGBFS after
applying the value engineering and carrying out the statistical
analysis as per ACI 214-R-02.
By analyzing results of the new concrete mix design
C35- OPC+40%GGBFS after applying the value
engineering proposal: The aforesaid figure (15) Fig -16: shows the difference in prices and quantities of
concrete mix C 35 –OPC+40% GGBS before and after the
illustrates that the compressive strength test results of application of value engineering (Source: author)
the new concrete mix design for 15 cubes are 49.2 MPa.
F- Presentation and recommendation phase -final
The highest fracture result was 51.1 MPa and the
report and recommendations: This stage culminates
standard deviation is 0.6, and the difference coefficient
the efforts of the team of value engineering team. In
is 1.2. These results are sufficient to realize the
this stage, all efforts in various stages of study have
required criteria of the mix according to the standard
been documented in an integrated and arranged
specifications set forth in the contract as follows:
manner in the form of a report, including solutions,
f’cr =fc +1.34 Std f’cr = 35+1.34 x 1.16 x 0.6
proposals, proposed changes, justifications and
= 35.94 MPa and when f’cr = fc +2.33 Std -3.5
usefulness [2]. This report is submitted to the decision
f’cr = 35+2.33 x0.6 x 1.16 - 3.5 = 33.2 MPa
making to take a decision, whether to accept, amend or
According to the requirements and specifications of the
refuse.
project, the average results of compressive strength
test should not be less than 35.9 Mpa as per the
calculations of the prescribed standards. Compared to
the actual results, which gives an average of 49.2 MPa;
this means that the concrete mix after the application
of the value engineering proposal has met the
requirements and specifications of the project.
 under study 2- Durable Concrete Mix C35/20 OPC+40%GGBFS
Total Quantity = 95000 m 3

Reducing the proportion of cementitious materials in

Idea concrete mixes
(Value Engineering
Proposal)

• Technical team of concrete plants

Execution • Quality engineers in the projects
• Consultants of projects
• State and its representative

1- Normal Concrete Mix

C50- OPC # 100% OPC (Code - HHMD03R0)
Secondary functions to Required function as per standards and project specs,
be realized for each
mix under study to • Target Mean Strength
achieve the objective • Cement Quantity > 370 kg/m3
of the study
• Fresh Concrete Properties.
(Improving quality
and productivity) 2-Durable Concrete MixC35 -OPC+40%GGBFS(Code-
SGDP12R0).
Required function as per standards and project specs,
• Durability Requiremnts
• Target Mean Strength
• Fresh Concrete Properties

Summary of findings before and after applying value engineering proposal

After Value Before Value

Engineering Engineering

1-Normal Concrete Mix C50-OPC (Code - HHMD03R0)

Total Quantity required for the project: 130,000.0 m3

Fig -17: shows the difference in prices and quantities of

Required = 50.9 MPa Required = 50.5 MPa
concrete mix C 35 –OPC+40% GGBS before and after the
application of value engineering (Source: author) Average = 64.4 MPa Average = 70.3 MPa
Results Of Strength
3. CONCLUSIONS Tests Max = 66.3 MPa Max = 72.0 MPa
Min = 62.5 MPa Min = 69.3 MPa

The final report concluded the results of the study. The Cement Quantity
Minimum required = 370 Kg/m3
first mix C50-OPC has saved about 5.0% of the total
cost of the concrete mix. Furthermore, the second 390.0 kg/m3 410.0 kg/m3

mixture C35-OPC+40% GGBFS has saved about 5.4% of 285.00 Qatar Riyals 300.00 Qatar Riyals
the total cost of the second concrete mix. The final Total Cost Price for = 79.20 USD = 83.35 USD
(1.0 m3)
report could be concluded as follows: Saving Ratio = 5.0 %

Total Cost for All 37,050,000.0 Qatar 39,000,000.0 Qatar Riyals

Table -1: illustrates the final report of study and comparison production Riyals
= 10,684,931.51 USD
between the results before and after applying the value = 10,150,684.93 USD
engineering on the concrete mixes in order to imporve
quality and productivity (Source: Researcher) 1,950,000.0 Qatar Riyals
Cost Saving For the = 534,246.5753 USD
Final report of study and comparison between the results before and after total production
Saving Ratio = 5.0 % of total price.
applying the value engineering
Definition of the Development Of Concrete Mix Design To Enhance The Saving Quantity of 20 kg/m3 x 130,000 m3 =2,600,000 kg. Of cement saving
project Quality And Productivity by using the value engineering cement from total from total production of mix C50-OPC.
approach. production
Company, subject of Hamad Bin Khalid Ready Mix Co.(HBK-REMIX)-
study Doha-Qatar
Projects to which the 1-The First Mix - Doha Metro Project - Qatar Rail ways After Value Before Value
mixes, subject of study, Doha Metro -1 (DTRSD) Depot. Engineering Engineering
are supplied
2-The second mix - the logistics area project – 2-Durable Concrete Mix C35- OPC+40%GGBFS (Code.SGDP12R0)
Ras Abufntas-QEWC Project. - Al Wakra Road. Total Quantity required for the project: 95000.0 m3
-GTC-606/2013-Transmission pipe line (desalination
plant) - Ras Abu Funtas
Minimum Required:
1-Normal Concrete Mix C50/20 OPC 100%(Code -
HHMD03R0) - RCP < 4000 -WP < 25 -WA < 2.5
Concrete mixes under
study 2- Durable Concrete MixC35/20 - OPC+40%GGBFS (Code- Durability
SGDP12R0) Requirement Results RCP = 1160 Col RCP = 1645 Col
WP = 6.0 mm WP = 7.50 mm
Estimated quantities of 1- Normal Concrete Mix C50/20 OPC WA = 1.50 % WA = 1.80 %
each concrete mix, Total Quantity =130000 m 3
Result of Compressive Required = 35.90 MPa Required = 35.60 MPa
Department of Industrial Engineering, Hashemite
Strength tests University, Zarqa, Jordan-2012.
Average = 49.20 MPa Average = 53.90 MPa [6] Mohammed Alhaj Hussein, Corrosion Behavior and
Max = 51.10 MPa Max = 55.90 MPa Durability of Various Cements and Pozzolans - Lap
Min = 46.60 MPa Min = 52.70 MPa
Lambert Academic Publishing GmbH KG, 2010.
[7] Yun-Wu Wu ,Applying Value Engineering to Evaluate the
298.00 Qatar Riyals 315.00 Qatar Riyals Use of Concrete in an Underground Railway Construction
Total Cost Price for = 82.80 USD = 87.50 USD Project. China Univ. Of Technology Taipei City, Taiwan
(1.0 m3) Department of Architecture-2011.
Saving Ratio = 5.40 %
[8] Alphonse J. Dell'Isola ,Value engineering in the
Total Cost for All 28,310,000.0 Qatar 29,925,000.0 Qatar Riyals construction industry by (1987).
Production. Riyals.
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= 7,756,164.39 USD Approach in the Underpass Projects in Iran: A Case Study
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,Utilization of Value Engineering to Optimize Concreting
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cement From total from total production
Productivity, 2008.
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[18] Criteria for Production Control of Ready Mix Concrete for
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