Y-Tec Keylex Mexico Salamanca, Guanajuato, Mexico
Collaborating to construct a Japanese company’s first plant in Mexico
Establishing Y-Tec’s presence in Mexico
Under a design-build contract, an Alberici joint venture delivered Y-Tec’s first plant in Mexico for their Mexican subsidiary, Y-Tec Keylex Mexico (YKM). The new automotive component plant produces motor vehicle parts and accessories for Mazda. The 317,500-square-foot manufacturing facility includes a press plant, general assembly plant, paint shop, and administration building.
Overcoming challenges to meet an aggressive schedule
The project team operated under a tight 16-month schedule, from planning and design through commissioning and start-up. A significant portion of construction needed to be completed during Guanajuato’s rainy season, which considerably delayed site work and concrete foundations. The project team quickly responded and made necessary adjustments to maintain the project schedule. To further expedite the schedule, the team procured long-lead materials early, preassembled sections of the structural steel frame for rapid erection, and installed the roofing early to allow work inside the building to proceed without weather interruptions.
International collaboration
The project team included members from Japan, Mexico, and the United States. Meetings were conducted in three languages, with multi-lingual project members assisting with translation. Design requirements were obtained in Japanese, translated to English and communicated in Spanish. Construction documents were prepared in English with notes in Spanish, supplemented by drawings and graphics to ensure full understanding of the design intent. In addition, design and engineering followed international standards, while accommodating Mexican construction approaches and practices.
Global Best Projects Award
Due to outstanding project execution despite challenges, Engineering News-Record selected the project as a Merit Award winner in the Manufacturing category of their Global Best Projects Awards.