Ferro cement Roofing Channel
The Ferro cement technology package for roofing developed by Development Alternatives uses state-of-the-art design principles to manufacture reinforced shells, commonly called channels. They are produced on specially designed vibrating tables and profiled moulds. The production system is uniquely tailored to provide special end details, consistent shape and thickness; all crucial for high performance.
 
The channels made with an optimized proportion of cement, sand and water, have a very high density, are impervious to penetration of water and provide high structural strength. Ferro cement roofing channels produced on mechanized equipment can be used for intermediate floor applications as well. Ferro cement roofing technology offers a viable alternative to conventional flat roofing systems such as reinforced cement concrete, reinforced brick cement, sand stone, etc. in both rural and urban areas of the country.

Application
Ferro cement roofing channels, offer unmatched speed of construction and can be used for

	Residences
	Primary schools, and other community buildings
	Portico's, verandahs and garages
	Industrial sheds, workshops and godowns
	Farm houses and semi-covered structures

Unique Features of Ferro cement Roofing Channels

	Speedy installation; no shuttering required
	30% cost saving over RCC roofing
	Lower dead load on the walls
	Usable as an intermediate floor
	High strength to weight ratio
	Elegant profile and uniform sizes
	Large spans possible with intermediate supports

Ferro cement Roofing Channels – Enterprise
Ferro cement technology is a highly profitable business for small scale building material producers or construction companies. A total investment of roughly Rs. 3,80,000/- for a mechanized production system assures a net profit of approximately Rs. 1,50,000/- per annum.
 
Product
Ferro cement roofing channels have a uniform segmental profile; they are 2.5 cm thick and 83 cm. wide. Maximum length of mechanically produced channels can be 6 meters. Longer spans for roofing can be built with intermediate supports.
 
Ferro cement roofing channels are manufactured using a fixed proportion of cement, sand and water to give high strength mortar that is reinforced with a layer of galvanized iron chicken wire mesh of 22 gauge and Tor steel bars of 8-12 mm diameter provided in the bottom nibs of the channel.
 
Ferro cement roofing channels can be safely transported after a curing period of 14 days,.