In today’s precast industry, efficiency, consistency, and quality aren’t optional—they’re expected. But achieving all three requires more than great equipment or quality materials alone. It takes a system.
We asked Casey Klaassen, President of Mardina Construction in scenic Agassiz, British Columbia, to discuss how their facility has leveraged a fully integrated approach combining Nox-Crete release agents with Moldtech forming equipment (Nox-Crete is the Moldtech representative in North America) and SRB magnet and formwork systems (Nox-Crete is the North American distributor of SRB).
Company Overview
Tell us about Mardina and what you produce.
Casey: “We produce wall panels insulated and non-insulated, stairs, precast slabs and boat ramps.”
How long have you been working with Nox-Crete and its partners?
Casey: “We have now been working with Nox-Crete and its partners for 8 years in the precast industry.”
What led you to explore an integrated system?
Casey: “We were fortunate to have been working with John Murray for over 40 years in the forming industry and he was the one that
introduced us to the Nox-Crete lineup.”
Starting with the Right System
Unlike many precast operations that evolve over time through trial and error, Mardina took a different path.
What challenges were you facing before implementing the system?
Casey: “We started our plant implementing these systems, so very few challenges.”
Any learning curve early on?
Casey: “It did take us a little time to get familiar with the systems, but it did not take long and we are very happy with the products.”
Moldtech Equipment: Built for Performance
How has Moldtech equipment impacted your production?
Casey: “We absolutely love the Moldtech tables—they are very well built. We have now been using them for close to 8 years and they are still working very well.”
What improvements have you seen?
Casey: “The efficiency of the equipment is second to none, the quality of the product is outstanding.”
Has this expanded your capabilities?
Casey: “Due to the flexibility of the equipment we are able to produce different types of finishes at very competitive rates.”
SRB Magnet & Formwork System: Speed Meets Precision
How has SRB improved setup and changeovers?
Casey: “The SRB magnet and shutter system is very efficient and robust—there have been very few breakdowns and problems over the last 8 years.”
Compared to traditional forming?
Casey: “There really is no comparison—the efficiency is second to none.”
Impact on consistency?
Casey: “The consistency and quality / accuracy is second to none.”
What about ease of use and maintenance?
Casey: “The system is not very heavy, so easy to work with, and using the proper form release it is easy to dismantle and reform.”
Safety improvements?
Casey: “As the system is quite lightweight, the safety aspect is very good.”
Nox-Crete Release Agents: Finish Matters
How have release agents improved your results?
Casey: “The Nox-Crete release agents are very well designed and leave a very consistent and beautiful finish.”
The System Approach: Where It All Comes Together
How important is a fully integrated system?
Casey: “We are very impressed with how the whole system is very well integrated and is almost flawless.”
Using Nox-Crete as a one stop solution compared to piecing together different manufacturers?
Casey: “There are a lot of systems on the market that are not nearly as well designed as the Nox-Crete setup.”
How has this streamlined operations?
Casey: “We are extremely happy with how the system is allowing us to compete in the market.”
Measurable Results That Matter
Have you seen improvements in production speed?
Casey: “Yes, we have seen a lot of production speed—we can now produce our product with about 1/3 of the crew than when we started.”
Any reductions in waste?
Casey: “There is virtually no waste with the Nox-Crete system.”
Return on investment?
Casey: “The return on investment is almost immediate and has paid for itself in 5 years.”
Workforce Impact: Doing More with Less
How has the system impacted your team?
Casey: “Training new employees on this system is very easy and fast.”
Can your team do more with fewer resources?
Casey: “It definitely does.”
Competitive Advantage in Today’s Market
Has this helped you win work or meet specs?
Casey: “Yes, I believe the quality of the product produced puts us above our competition.”
What sets Mardina apart today?
Casey: “Quality of product.”
Final Thoughts
What would you say to other precasters considering this system?
Casey: “This is a very well designed system and is a no brainer for any precaster.”
How has your experience been working with Nox-Crete?
Casey: “Working with Nox-Crete and John Murray has been a very good experience—any issues we had were dealt with in a timely manner and John would not give up until the issue was resolved.”
In one sentence—what has this system done for your business?
Casey: “This system has allowed us to be very competitive in a brand-new market.”
Looking to improve efficiency, consistency, and output in your precast operation?
A fully integrated system from Nox-Crete—combining forming equipment, magnet and formwork systems, and performance-driven release agents—can transform your production from day one.
