We need systems like PTS for making projects economical: Saleem Khan

Talking to Engineering Review, Mr. Khan said: We established Titanium Engineering in 2014 although we were working since 2009. The company is involved in construction mostly in post tension system and also working in the field of structuring. By the grace of God, we have projects all around Pakistan.
What is post tension system? Would you like to elaborate it?
Basically, it is the most modern system in RCC or structure. It balances the load in the structure as there remain deflections in the RCC. It controls deflection and stresses and thus turns it cost effective. It gives it a long life making it feasible.
Since it is a new technology, how do the consultants respond to it?
Initially, it was a bit difficult to introduce it although they all knew it and studied in the universities. But it was not in practice. Practically, it was ignored. When we launched it, they looked at hesitantly but with the passage of time, they got used it. Once the confidence of consultants bolstered, they started responding it.
What about the behavior of client and contractor towards this system?
Clients mostly follow their consultants and they see it as feasible. Thus, clients response is very good. However, the contractors sometimes feel it is a hurdle. They sometimes feel its interference in their work. But those who understand the system, they adopt it.
What services does your company offer to the client?
We offer post tension design, accessories and also installation. We also provide stability certificate so that they get satisfied with the work that our company has done.
Are you supported by some foreign principal too?
Yes, we are affiliated with a US-based company CPH. We hold workshops with them every year in the US and thus update our experts.
How do you see the future of post tension system in Pakistan?
I think the way our consultants are adopting this system, I believe it is well introduced here like developed countries in the world. Since Pakistan is a growing country we need such systems which are economical. I believe it will contribute to our economy.
Would this system be restricted to huge projects or can be used and be adopted in smaller projects?
Yes surely! Currently, it is being used from 200 yards house to huge projects such as bridges. We are working on 200 to 400 yards projects in DHA through this system.
Would you like to share with us the projects that you think have added to credibility?
Yes, they include one in Clifton Block – I namely Elegant Residence, the other one on Tariq Road near Allahwala roundabout, a shopping center in Islamabad and others which have attracted clients.
CPEC
How do you see CPEC for engineers and systems you deal in?
It is future not only for engineers but also for whole Pakistan. It will bring about a huge change in Pakistan and also in the countries connected to it. The more construction will take place the more post tension system will be adopted. So it also benefits consultants too.
There has a been a boom of engineering universities in Pakistan. Do you think they are producing useful engineers?
We should categorize engineers coming from these institutions. Some are good and some are average but I think we often fail to utilize them properly. Some are good at the site and some in design but we mixed them up overlooking their capability. It is up to consultants how they read their capabilities and utilize them properly. We should analyze engineers who to join in which field because they can serve in each and every industry. Engineers should be guided by consultants.
What are your future plans?
At present we are working in post tension systems. We want to bring innovation so that we support our country. Also, we want to demonstrate our expertise in the country where we imported it from. With this aim, we launched a company in the US in November 2017 so that we do programs there. It is not linked with our affiliation with CPH.
Now, Titanium Engineering US Inc. is established there. We are sure we shall be successful.
Do you see any hope as regards local manufacturing of items that you imported here?
Yes, it is there. At present post-tension system is in its introduction phase. But when it reaches massive scale, it would be possible and feasible because by that time we shall have a local consumption market. I see manufacturing in next few years.