
World of Concrete (WOC) 2012, the only annual international construction trade event for the concrete and masonry industries, has recently completed another successful show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. In spite of the unstable economic period in Europe and U.S markets, the show attracted more than 52,088 professional registrants in over 552,500 net square feet of exhibiting space, an increase of 40,000 net square feet over the previous year. Exhibited by more than 1,200 exhibitors, the show witnessed the launch of a wide array of new and exciting products, equipment and events. The Expo presented more than 100 seminars in the world-class education and certification program and provided valuable networking opportunities to exhibitors and attendees.
"There was a very positive and optimistic buzz on the show floor. WOC 2012 has really been a huge success, and according to the feedback got from both the exhibitors and the attendees, we have no doubt the economy is recuperating and the commercial construction industry is well on its way to a great 2012!" said Show Director Mr. Jackie James.
Many exhibitors have reported positive results and eyes for returning to the show in 2013. "Our first year at World of Concrete was beyond anything we imagined, said exhibitor Stuart Johnson, President of Phoenix Curb Machines adding that we left the show with sales, distributors, solid leads, several media interviews, and valuable connections."
On the response from the show, Mr. Jonn Rippman, National Sales Manager of Blastrac said, "The World of Concrete 2012 exceeded all our expectations. The atmosphere was lighter and more upbeat. People were looking delighted with optimistic outlook for 2012. Our lead count was up by 20% and our orders at the show were almost double what we had last year. If the activities at this year's show is an indicator, 2012 will be a banner year for Blastrac NA."
"I tell everyone in the business to come to WOC. If you're in the business, you should be here. I come to buy and to browse what's here and see what's new," said attendee Matthew Frank of Matthews Construction Co. in Seaford, NY. "I spend a lot of money here, it's a necessity."
For the first time at WOC, Masonry Construction's Masonry Veneer Live was held over a 4-day period in the North Hall, adjacent to the World of Masonry. Masonry Veneer Live included products such as cast stone, brick, adhered masonry, and natural stone. Highlights of the show were the Veneer Exhibits featured leading manufacturers and suppliers of masonry veneer and related products. The Masonry Veneer Training Zone was a unique education area where partnering associations offered special training demonstrations to teach the mason contractors and installers about masonry veneers.
World of Concrete provided attendees a world-class education program sponsored by White Cap.
Construction Supply with expert-led seminars, packed with leading-edge advice on how to reduce costs, improve profits and save time! "In addition to the show floor, I go to a few seminars. The information presented is very helpful to keep our business competitive. I get exactly what I come here for," said attendee Mike Wisniewski of Eau Claire, WI.
The Product Showcase gave attendees an opportunity to be among the first to see the latest industry products and technologies. "This is where you come to get exposure with the right buyers. I've generated a lot of leads through WOC," said exhibitor Jan Marcus of Chicago Pneumatic, Independence, OH. Those with a love of history joined the Hoover Dam Bypass Editorial Tours to learn about the project's challenges as well as the admixtures used in the project's mix designs.
The next WOC 2013 will be held from 5 to 8 February 2013 in Las Vegas.
"There was a very positive and optimistic buzz on the show floor. WOC 2012 has really been a huge success, and according to the feedback got from both the exhibitors and the attendees, we have no doubt the economy is recuperating and the commercial construction industry is well on its way to a great 2012!" said Show Director Mr. Jackie James.
Many exhibitors have reported positive results and eyes for returning to the show in 2013. "Our first year at World of Concrete was beyond anything we imagined, said exhibitor Stuart Johnson, President of Phoenix Curb Machines adding that we left the show with sales, distributors, solid leads, several media interviews, and valuable connections."
On the response from the show, Mr. Jonn Rippman, National Sales Manager of Blastrac said, "The World of Concrete 2012 exceeded all our expectations. The atmosphere was lighter and more upbeat. People were looking delighted with optimistic outlook for 2012. Our lead count was up by 20% and our orders at the show were almost double what we had last year. If the activities at this year's show is an indicator, 2012 will be a banner year for Blastrac NA."
"I tell everyone in the business to come to WOC. If you're in the business, you should be here. I come to buy and to browse what's here and see what's new," said attendee Matthew Frank of Matthews Construction Co. in Seaford, NY. "I spend a lot of money here, it's a necessity."
For the first time at WOC, Masonry Construction's Masonry Veneer Live was held over a 4-day period in the North Hall, adjacent to the World of Masonry. Masonry Veneer Live included products such as cast stone, brick, adhered masonry, and natural stone. Highlights of the show were the Veneer Exhibits featured leading manufacturers and suppliers of masonry veneer and related products. The Masonry Veneer Training Zone was a unique education area where partnering associations offered special training demonstrations to teach the mason contractors and installers about masonry veneers.
World of Concrete provided attendees a world-class education program sponsored by White Cap.
Construction Supply with expert-led seminars, packed with leading-edge advice on how to reduce costs, improve profits and save time! "In addition to the show floor, I go to a few seminars. The information presented is very helpful to keep our business competitive. I get exactly what I come here for," said attendee Mike Wisniewski of Eau Claire, WI.
The Product Showcase gave attendees an opportunity to be among the first to see the latest industry products and technologies. "This is where you come to get exposure with the right buyers. I've generated a lot of leads through WOC," said exhibitor Jan Marcus of Chicago Pneumatic, Independence, OH. Those with a love of history joined the Hoover Dam Bypass Editorial Tours to learn about the project's challenges as well as the admixtures used in the project's mix designs.
The next WOC 2013 will be held from 5 to 8 February 2013 in Las Vegas.
A Few Participating Companies
Husqvarna K 1260

Husqvarna displayed its most powerful cutter Husqvarna K 1260, with an impressive 5.8 kW (7.8 hp) output at WOC. The cutter features the new generation Active Air Filtration™, one of the market's most efficient centrifugal air cleaning systems that delivers up to one year's operation without a filter change as well as a highly efficient vibration dampening system.
The K 1260 is ideal for heavier cutting of concrete and stone in alterations, renovations and new construction. It is perfect for cutting smaller holes outdoors and adjusting window and door openings, as well as for pipe, asphalt and metal cutting.
Blastrac® the global leader in portable surface preparation technologies and equipment displayed its 4-54DCG1 Ultra-Jet pulse dust collection system. Blastrac's Dust Collectors are designed specifically for the rigors of working with concrete, masonry and tile mortar, and asphalt materials to reduce the amount of debris and dust generated on surface preparation job sites.
The latest in the global series of machines the 4-54DCG1 greatly reduces airborne dust and particulate and withstands the demands of heavy commercial or surface-prep contractor use, to provide a cleaner and safer work environment. This reduction creates environment–friendly work conditions, helps diminish operator fatigue, minimizes health issues and allows work on simultaneous projects.
The powerful mid-size unit is available in either 230V or 460V 3 phase 60 hz power configurations. Sleek and ergonomic design aids in maneuvering and loading. Like all global series machines, it is fabricated with state of the art laser and CNC equipment and then finished with world class powder coating.
The 4-54DCG1, can be paired with Blastrac's model 1-10DPS75 shot blaster as well as mid to large scarifiers and planetary grinders. The heavy duty design and quality components ensure long service life.
W. R Meadow displayed range of products including CEM-KOTE FLEX ST, CEM KOTE FLEX CR, Meadow-Crete FNP etc. CEM-KOTE FLEX ST is highly flexible waterproofing fibre-reinforced and breathable cementitious slurry, consisting of dry Component A and liquid Component B. CEM-KOTE FLEX ST is designed for positive and negative waterproofing of concrete structures in new construction and restoration. It is suitable for water and wastewater tanks, secondary containment structures, tunnels, concrete slabs, balconies and patios with light-to-medium traffic. In new construction, where superior flexibility is required (waste water treatment facilities), CEM-KOTE FLEX ST may be reinforced with REINFORCING FABRIC HD throughout. In restoration, REINFORCING FABRIC NW is used just over the cracks to provide bridging.
CEM KOTE FLEX CR is designed for waterproofing and concrete restoration in thin sections where superior flexibility, chemical resistance and breathability are required. It protects and waterproofs structures subjected to various chemicals, such as concrete floors, tanks, secondary containment structures and clarifiers.
CEM-KOTE FLEX CR is a highly flexible, fibre-reinforced, hydraulic cement based material. It is a two-component system consisting of dry Component A and liquid Component B. For additional tensile strength, it may be reinforced with REINFORCING FABRIC HD.
SitePro showcased its diverse range of quality accessory products for surveying and construction instruments at the show. Integrated with experience from the surveying and construction industry, SitePro offers a diverse range of products- all manufactured and marketed to provide the highest quality at the most competitive prices. These include tripods, leveling rods, poles, prism systems, field supplies, and carrying cases as well as a complete line of laser and optical instruments.
SitePro SLR100HV Rotary Laser is used for horizontal and vertical electronic self-leveling for precise leveling applications and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It gives electronic leveling accuracy up to 3/32-in at 100-ft (2.4mm at 30m) with working range up to 1500-ft (457 m) diameter. The product's other features include: self-leveling range up to +/- 5° that can sense and indicate out-of level conditions; Smart H.I. Alert System alerts user when laser has been moved or disturbed from its self- leveling condition; Scanning mode with 0, 10, 45, 90 and 180 degree directional angle settings; Variable rotation speeds for a wide variety of jobsite visibility settings: 0, 60, 120, 300 and 600RPM; Visible 90-degree layout beam for alignment and squaring to ensure that walls or partitions are precisely aligned; Clock-wise and counter-clock-wise beam positioning; Dual Manual grade matching up to 8.75% in both axes and enclosed rotor housing keeps laser safe from the elements or tough jobsite conditions.
Powers Fasteners, Inc. has been a worldwide pioneer in the fastening industry since 1921 and today is the leading supplier of concrete and masonry anchors and fastening systems in North America. Powers has extensive engineering and manufacturing expertise in several product groups, including mechanical anchors, adhesive anchoring systems and powered forced-entry systems such as powder-actuated and gas fastening systems which were exhibited during the show.
VERTIGO is a one-piece, all steel threaded fastening system for suspending steel threaded rod vertically overhead in pipe hanging, fire protection, electrical conduit and cable-tray applications. VERTIGO can be installed in a variety of base materials including steel bar joists and beams, wood frame columns and beams, as well as concrete ceilings, beams, and columns.
In India, Vertigo anchors were selected to hang a ceiling in T2 terminal of new International Airport in Mumbai for the simplicity and reliability. After reviewing the load carrying capacity, speed and ease of installation of Powers unique Rod Anchor system versus the traditional method, Vertigo products were selected to suspend the false ceiling. For another part of the airport high quality code approved anchors Powers PTB ETA7 M16 XL were also selected for constructing the new Air Traffic Control Tower. The technical supports were offered by the company during the design, installation and post installation phases of the project including on-site installation verification for both the ceiling and tower structure.
ERICO® is a premier manufacturer of engineered products designed for diverse niche applications in the electrical, mechanical, commercial and industrial, rail and utility markets. The company is also a pioneer in the construction industry and manufactures a complete line of rebar splicing systems. Its mechanical rebar splices can provide a better solution than traditional lap splices. Headquartered in Solon, Ohio, USA, ERICO has a sales network serving in more than 25 countries, with manufacturing and distribution facilities worldwide.
The company has wide range of brands including CADDY® Fixings, Fasteners and Supports; CADWELD® Exothermic Connections; CRITEC® Surge Protection Devices; ERICO® Rail and Industrial Products; ERIFLEX® Low Voltage Power Distribution; ERITECH® Lightning Protection and Grounding Products and LENTON® Concrete Products.
Erico also being a pioneer in the construction industry manufactures a complete line of rebar splicing systems under the brand LENTON® which is also available in the Indian market. LENTON mechanical rebar splices can provide a better solution than traditional lap splices and available for different applications including LENTON® Bar to Bar Connections, LENTON® FORM SAVER Dowel Bar, LENTON® TERMINATOR Rebar End Anchors, LENTON® LOCK Mechanical Rebar System, CADWELD® Rebar Splices, LENTON® THERMO Balcony System, LENTON® STEEL FORTRESS Punching Shear Reinforcement System and many more market-specific solutions.
Amerimix manufactures and delivers quality preblended mortars, stuccos, grouts and specialty cements to meet the needs of developers, general contractors, plasterers, and masons. The company has recently introduced a new line of colored mortars and colored stucco under the Chromatics brand. The product line offers 23 standard colors as well as the ability to custom match any color to meet specific project requirements.
In addition, Amerimix also launched two self-consolidating grouts: Amerimix self-consolidating Coarse Grout (AMX 610 SC CG) and Amerimix self-consolidating Fine Frout (AMX 620 SC FG) and also Continuous Mixer D-35, which is designed to mix factory preblended mortars, grouts and stuccos to perfection and as a result increases jobsite productivity and optimizes workspace.
Fraco is a Canadian manufacturer of mast climbing work platforms, transport platforms and hoists. The company's years of experience have led it to develop a high level of flexible quality products and an expertise that exceeds its client's expectations throughout the marketplace. Constant innovation and close customer relationships have cemented Fraco's reputation as a leader in the North American mast climbing industry.
Originally conceived with mason's needs in mind, Fraco's range of equipment has evolved and now finds itself key to numerous other sectors of the construction industry (residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, etc.). Specific sectors such as mining and electricity production are also targeted. Fraco's equipment are offered to general and specialized contractors through our broad distribution network.
The company's products range include ACT4, ACT8, FRSM-1500, FRSM-20K, and accessories.
The ACT-8 work platform combines safety, power and flexibility. It distinguishes itself by its versatility and represents the best choice for contractors specialized in repointing, glazing, E.I.F.S., curtain walls installation, metal framing, etc.
Used with one or two masts, this system of cantilevers, bridges and forward extension is the solution to vertical access problems encountered during inspection, restoration and maintenance of buildings and structures. It is also an access solution for industrial projects.
The endless screw mechanism of the ACT-8 allows elevation at variable speed and an exact positioning of the platform. Assembled with one mast, this system offers: a maximum length of 50 ft (15,2 m); a load capacity of 8000 lb (3 630 kg) and a lifting speed up to 39 ft (11,9 m) per minute.
ProSpec is the professionally specified group of concrete repair and restoration, tile and stone installation, and flooring products and systems. ProSpec products are used throughout North America on a wide range of commercial and residential construction and concrete restoration projects.
The company introduced ProSpec® C-1107 Construction Grout which is a high strength, nonmetallic, cementitious structural grout; ProSpec® Bedding Grout - a non-shrink high compressive strength, non-metallic grout used for placing prefabricated concrete pavements; ProSpec Level Set Deep Pour 3, an eco-friendly calcium aluminate cement (CAC), non-gypsum based, single component, non-shrink, fast-setting, self-leveling underlayment that provides a flat, smooth durable surface up to 3 inches in one lift for the installation of floor finishes; ProSpec® Floor Patch Pro - a fast-setting, easy-to-mix, portland cement based patching compound for use under resilient flooring, ceramic tile, hardwood flooring and other floor covering surfaces; ProSpec Moisture Vapor Reducer, a proprietary penetrating, film-forming, zero VOC coating for reducing the moisture vapor transmission rate from a cementitious substrate by at least 80% prior to the installation of self-leveling systems, skimcoats, moisture sensitive floor finishes and resinous coating systems, and many more products.
The K 1260 is ideal for heavier cutting of concrete and stone in alterations, renovations and new construction. It is perfect for cutting smaller holes outdoors and adjusting window and door openings, as well as for pipe, asphalt and metal cutting.
BLASTRAC

The latest in the global series of machines the 4-54DCG1 greatly reduces airborne dust and particulate and withstands the demands of heavy commercial or surface-prep contractor use, to provide a cleaner and safer work environment. This reduction creates environment–friendly work conditions, helps diminish operator fatigue, minimizes health issues and allows work on simultaneous projects.
The powerful mid-size unit is available in either 230V or 460V 3 phase 60 hz power configurations. Sleek and ergonomic design aids in maneuvering and loading. Like all global series machines, it is fabricated with state of the art laser and CNC equipment and then finished with world class powder coating.
The 4-54DCG1, can be paired with Blastrac's model 1-10DPS75 shot blaster as well as mid to large scarifiers and planetary grinders. The heavy duty design and quality components ensure long service life.
W.R Meadow

CEM KOTE FLEX CR is designed for waterproofing and concrete restoration in thin sections where superior flexibility, chemical resistance and breathability are required. It protects and waterproofs structures subjected to various chemicals, such as concrete floors, tanks, secondary containment structures and clarifiers.
CEM-KOTE FLEX CR is a highly flexible, fibre-reinforced, hydraulic cement based material. It is a two-component system consisting of dry Component A and liquid Component B. For additional tensile strength, it may be reinforced with REINFORCING FABRIC HD.
SitePro

SitePro SLR100HV Rotary Laser is used for horizontal and vertical electronic self-leveling for precise leveling applications and is ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. It gives electronic leveling accuracy up to 3/32-in at 100-ft (2.4mm at 30m) with working range up to 1500-ft (457 m) diameter. The product's other features include: self-leveling range up to +/- 5° that can sense and indicate out-of level conditions; Smart H.I. Alert System alerts user when laser has been moved or disturbed from its self- leveling condition; Scanning mode with 0, 10, 45, 90 and 180 degree directional angle settings; Variable rotation speeds for a wide variety of jobsite visibility settings: 0, 60, 120, 300 and 600RPM; Visible 90-degree layout beam for alignment and squaring to ensure that walls or partitions are precisely aligned; Clock-wise and counter-clock-wise beam positioning; Dual Manual grade matching up to 8.75% in both axes and enclosed rotor housing keeps laser safe from the elements or tough jobsite conditions.
Powers Fasteners

VERTIGO is a one-piece, all steel threaded fastening system for suspending steel threaded rod vertically overhead in pipe hanging, fire protection, electrical conduit and cable-tray applications. VERTIGO can be installed in a variety of base materials including steel bar joists and beams, wood frame columns and beams, as well as concrete ceilings, beams, and columns.
In India, Vertigo anchors were selected to hang a ceiling in T2 terminal of new International Airport in Mumbai for the simplicity and reliability. After reviewing the load carrying capacity, speed and ease of installation of Powers unique Rod Anchor system versus the traditional method, Vertigo products were selected to suspend the false ceiling. For another part of the airport high quality code approved anchors Powers PTB ETA7 M16 XL were also selected for constructing the new Air Traffic Control Tower. The technical supports were offered by the company during the design, installation and post installation phases of the project including on-site installation verification for both the ceiling and tower structure.
ERICO

The company has wide range of brands including CADDY® Fixings, Fasteners and Supports; CADWELD® Exothermic Connections; CRITEC® Surge Protection Devices; ERICO® Rail and Industrial Products; ERIFLEX® Low Voltage Power Distribution; ERITECH® Lightning Protection and Grounding Products and LENTON® Concrete Products.
Erico also being a pioneer in the construction industry manufactures a complete line of rebar splicing systems under the brand LENTON® which is also available in the Indian market. LENTON mechanical rebar splices can provide a better solution than traditional lap splices and available for different applications including LENTON® Bar to Bar Connections, LENTON® FORM SAVER Dowel Bar, LENTON® TERMINATOR Rebar End Anchors, LENTON® LOCK Mechanical Rebar System, CADWELD® Rebar Splices, LENTON® THERMO Balcony System, LENTON® STEEL FORTRESS Punching Shear Reinforcement System and many more market-specific solutions.
Amerimix

In addition, Amerimix also launched two self-consolidating grouts: Amerimix self-consolidating Coarse Grout (AMX 610 SC CG) and Amerimix self-consolidating Fine Frout (AMX 620 SC FG) and also Continuous Mixer D-35, which is designed to mix factory preblended mortars, grouts and stuccos to perfection and as a result increases jobsite productivity and optimizes workspace.
Fraco

Originally conceived with mason's needs in mind, Fraco's range of equipment has evolved and now finds itself key to numerous other sectors of the construction industry (residential, commercial, institutional, industrial, etc.). Specific sectors such as mining and electricity production are also targeted. Fraco's equipment are offered to general and specialized contractors through our broad distribution network.
The company's products range include ACT4, ACT8, FRSM-1500, FRSM-20K, and accessories.
The ACT-8 work platform combines safety, power and flexibility. It distinguishes itself by its versatility and represents the best choice for contractors specialized in repointing, glazing, E.I.F.S., curtain walls installation, metal framing, etc.
Used with one or two masts, this system of cantilevers, bridges and forward extension is the solution to vertical access problems encountered during inspection, restoration and maintenance of buildings and structures. It is also an access solution for industrial projects.
The endless screw mechanism of the ACT-8 allows elevation at variable speed and an exact positioning of the platform. Assembled with one mast, this system offers: a maximum length of 50 ft (15,2 m); a load capacity of 8000 lb (3 630 kg) and a lifting speed up to 39 ft (11,9 m) per minute.
ProSpec

The company introduced ProSpec® C-1107 Construction Grout which is a high strength, nonmetallic, cementitious structural grout; ProSpec® Bedding Grout - a non-shrink high compressive strength, non-metallic grout used for placing prefabricated concrete pavements; ProSpec Level Set Deep Pour 3, an eco-friendly calcium aluminate cement (CAC), non-gypsum based, single component, non-shrink, fast-setting, self-leveling underlayment that provides a flat, smooth durable surface up to 3 inches in one lift for the installation of floor finishes; ProSpec® Floor Patch Pro - a fast-setting, easy-to-mix, portland cement based patching compound for use under resilient flooring, ceramic tile, hardwood flooring and other floor covering surfaces; ProSpec Moisture Vapor Reducer, a proprietary penetrating, film-forming, zero VOC coating for reducing the moisture vapor transmission rate from a cementitious substrate by at least 80% prior to the installation of self-leveling systems, skimcoats, moisture sensitive floor finishes and resinous coating systems, and many more products.