of the stainless steel nation Stainless Steel sector fights for the right to supply parastatal projects

Sassda recently received excellent media exposure when it released information on its stance on the procurement of stainless steel or lack thereof in major government projects. What follows is the official news release that was distributed to the media …

The use of local stainless steel is crucial to driving demand and the subsequent beneficiation of this highly prized metal but work still needs to be done to cement the correct specifications of South African stainless steel components in key strategic projects.

This is the view of the Southern Africa Stainless Steel Development Association (Sassda) which together with the local demand-creating structures of the Steel Master Plan (SMP) has identified and placed a focus on the following projects that can positively impact the local conversion of stainless steel.

Sassda Executive Director Michel Basson stated; “We firmly believe that increased local conversion of stainless steel is not just essential; it’s a game-changer for our industry and the national economy. These projects are our industry’s stepping stones to fostering local demand and boosting the stainless steel sector”.

Eskom transmission towers

Based on the need for local components in government projects, a key focus of the SMP Local Demand structures has been on applying strong pressure on Eskom to engage more openly regarding the supply of transmission towers. The criteria for allowing local industry to participate in the supply of these items and/or its components and have firm targets for local content is still debated.

However, in the interim Sassda has seen an opportunity to submit a change in the material specifications to allow for the use of South African 3CR12 stainless steel which is widely used across the globe in corrosive applications as a cost-effective alternative. This submission by Sassda - and its key members - based on Life Cycle Costing principles was received favourably by the committee but still needs to be accepted by Eskom.

Bailey bridges

Another government project with good potential for the use of stainless steel is the proposed construction of Bailey Bridges in rural areas. These are used in emergencies or as temporary structures for planned events. They are particularly useful in rural areas in the event of natural disasters like floods.