In developing KCE II, we are being intentional with every decision along the way. From our curriculum to the very blocks that will comprise the buildings, we’re making innovative and sustainable choices.
Traditionally, fired bricks are formed by hand and require intensive labor, natural resources, and about a month of time for the process to be fully completed. Now, the new school will be sustainably built by stabilized compressed earth blocks (SCEB) formed on our campus.
Let’s take a closer look at how these blocks are formed!
Our worksite includes 2 block machines as well as storage for dirt and finished blocks.
The dirt used to form the blocks is extracted from the earth where the building will be constructed.
Loose dirt is removed and at the end of the process it will be returned in block form.
Take a look at our team in action. In order to make the blocks, they place dirt in a tray and the machine compacts it. Our construction crew is made up entirely of local community members who we have trained on this specialized equipment. After the construction of KCE II is completed, these workers will move on to other building projects within the community, allowing them to advance their skills and play an important role in the local economy.
After the pressure is added, the once-loose dirt becomes as a durable block. The use of the compactor ensures that each block comes out in the same shape, size, and strength. Unlike fired bricks that are made by hand, the consistency of these blocks ensures lasting stability for the new building.
Blocks are stacked and stored. These will be used for the new school buildings. In the future, our block machines will be used to build stronger homes and other structures for the community.
The blocks are covered and stored as they wait for their turn in construction.
Here are our two block machines that make everything possible. We are thankful for this local, eco-friendly, and reliable approach to building KCE II.
