Ec industrial & business news, issue 77, jan feb 2017 by The Media & Events Company

EASTERN CAPE INDUSTRIAL & BUSINESS NEWS

YOUR LINK TO INDUSTRY THROUGHOUT THE EASTERN CAPE

issn NO: 1996-9708

January / February 2017

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Engineering projects averts Uitenhage IDZ power blackouts - page 3

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issue no. 77

Citrus project adds zest to EC economy

Nod for R300m collective farm

he awarding of a water licence to an Eastern Cape citrus comHeating, Cooling & pany is set to unlock the transVentilation - page 7 formation of 700 hectares of bush in the Sundays River Valley into a thriving collective farm, kick-starting a R300-million black economic empowerment project. The Ikamva Lethu project has been widely praised as a template for future agricultural empowerment deals around the country, thanks to Industrial Property & its structure which includes longterm buy-in by both land owners and Development - page 9 previously disadvantaged members of the community working on farms in the region. But its success hinged on alloEngineering cation of a water licence by the & Allied provincial Department of Water and Sanitation. For a time, this appeared Supplies to be in question, but the recent page 10 green light now allows the farm to draw enough water from the Sundays River Irrigation Scheme to Buyiswa Ndyenga, general manager (right) of the Sundays River Farming make the project viable. “[It’s] brought the project to life… Trust empowerment farm, which was started by the SRCC, and Jafta April, as it now allows us to commence a production manager on the farm, inspect an orchard of navels which are due to produce a crop in 2017. with serious and meaningful planning of the implementation phases of the project,” said the Sundays River in the area for the project, part of a ment, said the valley was one of Citrus Company (SRCC), which is 1200-hectare tract of farmland it has the major players in the SA citAutomation & rus industry. “There are about 150 the driving force behind the project. purchased and registered. Robotics - page 11 citrus farms here covering around The water licence is for 675 hecEnvironmental Impact 12 000 hectares in total. So already tares equivalent of water for a period Assessment we are looking at possibly the largof 20 years, subject to a number of est empowerment deal in the citrus conditions and will be renewable An environmental impact assess- industry in the country – and one of subject to certain conditions. One of the most important of these is that ment (EIA) application for the devel- the biggest farming enterprises in the empowerment shareholding in opment of the farmland – which the valley, when it is fully realised.” The knock-on effects of the project Ikamva Lethu Farms (Pty) Ltd, the at present is just bush – has now operating company in whose name been submitted to the Department of for the growth of downstream industhe licence has been registered, Environmental Affairs, with authori- tries – from transport and logistics may not fall below 59% at any time. sation for the project expected to storage and packaging – were The SRCC which represents about towards the end of 2017. The EIA significant, he said. “We are starting from absolutely 10% of South Africa’s citrus industry will determine the exact amount of Company & Product nothing. We have bushland and and around 45% of the citrus com- land which will be cultivated. Ken Nieuwenhuizen, water at this stage. Once we have ing News from December the Sundays River Valley, Newsadvert - page 12 SEW-Overview KZN Industrial & Business 2016.qxp_Layout 1 2016/12/05 5:23 PM Page 1SRCC direchas earmarked some 700 hectares tor of transformation and develop- the authorisation [from the EIA appli-

cation], then we can start building infrastructure before we plant the trees.” The first phase of four will include laying infrastructure and building dams, which will take about 18 months. This includes cultivating the first 150 hectares of orchards – planting about 75 000 trees.

Scale of Project Outlining the scale of the project, SRCC operations manager Frikkie Olivier said, “The average size of a farm in the valley is 60 hectares, so effectively we’ll be planting the equivalent of two farms a year.” He said the earmarked starting date for planting of trees was spring 2019, with completion scheduled for 2023. The first fruits of the project are expected to be borne in 2022. As the project unfolds, citrus varieties to be planted would be determined by market demand, and could also include juice processing opportunities. The project promises to be a major jobs boost for the Eastern Cape agricultural sector, with up to 80 permanent employees and as many as 700 seasonal workers when fully operational. This was excluding the downstream job creation opportunities, said Nieuwenhuizen. Furthermore, there were on average five dependants for every employed person in the valley who would benefit from the project, he said. “Ikamva Lethu is very broadbased; it’s about inclusivity and participation and will result in about 400 community members becoming shareholders and beneficiaries benefiting from the success of the project.” Enquiry no: 1

January / February 2017

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EC Industrial & Business News

Meet our new editor umn for a leading Sunday newspaper. “Alan’s depth of traditional publishing experience, his in-depth knowledge of business, government and industry, as well as his grasp of the latest technology trends, means our publications are well positioned to build on and grow their solid print footprint as well as take advantage of the opportunities presented by online and digital publishing trends,” Coom said. Cooper said he was thrilled and honoured to have been offered the position. “Eastern Cape Industrial & Business News and KZN Industrial & Business News are widely regarded as the leading sources of targeted, indus-

try-focussed news in their respective provinces. “I look forward to building on the excellent work done by Janet Coom and her team. We’ve got some exciting plans for 2017 and we look forward to sharing them with you as they start bearing fruit,” Cooper said. “One of our strategies is to be more active on social media. With this in mind, we’ve set up a Twitter account, @indbiznews. I encourage our readers and advertisers to follow us there and share their news and views with us.” Cooper also welcomes comments, questions and story suggestions via email at editorial@mediaevents.co.za.

CATALYST-00000

easoned journalist Alan Cooper has been appointed the new editor of Eastern Cape Industrial & Business News and its sister publication, KZN Industrial & Business News. Announcing the appointment, publisher Janet Coom said, “With almost three decades of media experience under his belt, much of it covering government and business, I believe Alan is the ideal person to helm these two titles.” Cooper started his journalism career as a cub reporter on the Daily News in Durban in 1989 and quickly moved on to more senior beats including education, local government and politics for various publications in the Independent Newspapers stable. Over the past decade, as a freelancer, Cooper has focussed on business, motoring and technology reporting, writing for a variety of magazines and newspapers, both locally and abroad. He also pens a popular tech col-

Coatings industry concern over ‘disappearance’ of the SABS

he coatings industry is hugely concerned about the lack of cooperation it is receiving from the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), says Deryck Spence, executive director of the SA Paint Manufacturing Association (SAPMA). “In fact, the coatings industry is beginning to question if the SABS is still an active guardian and promoter of quality standards in this country – or even operating at all in key areas. There have been increasing signs of total apathy and alarming disinterest in the past year based on our dealings – or attempts at dealing – with the Bureau,” said Spence. He said the SABS Standards Division describes itself as the only recognised national institution for the development, maintenance and promotion of South African National Standards (SANS) which form the basis for all the other SABS service offerings such as testing and certification. “But we have not seen signs of this happening at the moment. The SABS also is the only government body that can provide the specifications for quality management systems and test methods for the coatings industry. More importantly, the industry is totally dependent on SABS marks of approval for its products - not only from a general consumer point of view but also because the Department of Public Works simply will not award tenders to products that do not carry SABS marks of approval. “So this precludes many of our members from bidding for lucrative government projects at a time when the pickings are lean. Yet all SAPMA approaches and appeals to the SABS have drawn no response, and the SABS testing laboratories would appear to be non-operational,” Spence said. Spence said SAPMA and its Technical Committee would continue push for a response from the SABS but were not optimistic as it is believed that the coatings sector was not the only industry being thwarted by what he calls the virtual “disappearance of the SABS”. The SABS said they had been made aware of the criticism from SAPMA and were busy with an investigation. “SABS is committed to delivering quality assurance and SAPMA is welcome to talk to us about their concerns,” Enquiry no: 2 it said in a statement.

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Tel: 0861 122 441 P O Box 1322 Wandsbeck 3631 Fax: (031) 266 7514 Email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za www.mediaevents.co.za Managing Director: Janet Coom Editor: Alan Cooper Email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za

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January / February 2017

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EC Industrial & Business News

Engineering project averts Uitenhage IDZ power black-outs

he completion of an R80-million slope stabilisation engineering project in Nelson Mandela Bay has saved Africa’s automotive manufacturing capital from power blackouts, the South African National Roads Agency Limited (SANRAL) announced recently. The instability of the R75 on-ramp into Uitenhage was undermining the structural integrity of pylons carrying overhead electrical cables supplying large areas of Uitenhage with power. It has been a source of concern for authorities and industry since 2012 when a part of the slope was damaged by heavy rains. “Sloughing or erosion problems [of the slope] began in the mid-1980s mainly due to the lack of maintenance. This, in turn, allowed moisture to seep into the slope. Previous methods of stabilisation were not effective as they only dealt with close to surface water or moisture contained within the slope,” said the roads agency’s southern region marketing manager Michelle Ah Shene (pictured).

The R75 was declared a national route in 2011 and was being investigated by SANRAL when the failure occurred. “Every time instability occurred the failure zone encroached on these pylons, undermining the stability of the foundations.” Recently, extensive slope landmass movements were triggered by heavy rains during October 2012 in the Nelson Mandela

Bay metro. “The rains created a 50m wide and 300m long slip along the R75 onramp, resulting in the movement of soil to the lower parts of the slope along the failure zone, further exasperating the risk of damage to the cables and a potential power black-out of Uitenhage,” Ah Shene said. SANRAL said it had concluded a slope stabilisation programme of the R75 on-ramp, and that stability of pylon foundations would no longer be at risk. The programme entailed the excavation of 112 000m³ of soil, the construction of 5 700m³ of gabions in three continuous walls along the R75 on-ramp inclusive of grouted soil nails, construction drains at the top of the walls, and the installation drains conveying stormwater run-off down the slope to the existing drainage system. The project also included the construction of an earth catch water bank at the summit of the slope to prevent overland flow from the summit

Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China, Kang Yong (centre) together with his wife Pu Jumei posing outside of the CDC flowing down the cut face. building. Accompanying the General Consulate is Song Jun - Vice SANRAL met and overcame two Consul (left to right), Zhuany – CPF, Gustav Meyer – CDC Senior engineering challenges on the project. Manager: International Markets, Pepi Silinga – CDC CEO, Lee – The first was the excavated face CPF, Christopher Mashigo – CDC Executive Manager, Tony Wang – beneath the southern pylon, which if CDC Business Development & Jimmy – CPF. completely excavated to its full height, would have been approximately 10m high. “When it had been partly excavated some 6m to 7m it was prudent to install a system of temporary grouted soil nails plus geotextile and steel mesh to prevent the slope from colore Chinese-backed pro- have nothing but positive things to lapsing. jects in the Coega Industrial say about Coega and its manage“Had the temporary measures not Development Zone (IDZ) ment,” said Yong. been installed there would have been could be on the cards, thanks to “Your professionalism in delivera danger of the collapse endangerthe positive feedback from existing services to investors is highly ing the lives of any person working ing investors from that country. commendable and is applauded below and could have, quite possibly, That was the promising mes- greatly. We hope to see more probrought about the collapse of the elecsage from Consulate General jects from China coming to South tricity pylon standing at the top of the Kang Yong of the People’s Africa in the near future.” face,” said Ah Shene. Republic of China during a recent Currently the Coega IDZ boasts Secondly, during construction where visit to the IDZ, hosted by the a number of projects from China the excavations opened up the face Coega Development Corporation including First Automotive Works of the cut slope, a geological fault in (CDC). (FAW), a R600-million assembly the material had been exposed, with The visit follows hot on the heels plant in Zone 2 of the IDZ togethconsiderable amounts of groundwater of one late last year by Chinese er with the Beijing Automobile seepage from the fault. Vice President LI Yuanchao, who International Corporation’s “The fault could lead to further congratulated the Coega IDZ as (BAIC’s) R11-billion investment sloughing of the existing cut face onto one of the best such zones in the in a completely knocked down the R75 on-ramp. Additional stabilisadeveloping countries. automotive manufacturing plant, tion works in the form of gabions, soil During the latest visit, Yong located in zone 1. nails, slope rehabilitation measures commended the CDC on its good Coega CEO, Pepi Silinga, reit(top soiling and grassing) and trapwork, highlighting the positive erated the CDC’s commitment ezoidal drains were authorised.” feedback they’ve received from to foreign direct investment in The project created 216 employChina investors located within the the Eastern Cape by highlightment opportunities for 13 SMMEs over Coega IDZ. ing some of the efforts the CDC a 15-month contract period. SMME “I have interacted with some of had undertaken to ensure that it training in tendering and pricing; the investors located here from remains an attractive destination safety, health and environment (SHE) D:\!BMG\#Jobs\Adverts\2016\022016\BMG-COR25012016.cdr 25 January 2017first 03:37:25 Enquiry no: 4 aspects; concrete skills, and aidPM China like FAW and BAIC. They to investors. Color profile: Disabled was also proComposite Default screen vided.

More Chinese investment for Coega?

Enquiry no: 3

January / February 2017

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EC Industrial & Business News

Build roads that matter

Les Holbrook

e all hate sitting at roadblocks, or what we commonly refer to as Stop/Go’s because that’s what we do there… Stop… Or Go… It was at one of these Stop/Go’s that I began to think about the road infrastructure between East London and Port Elizabeth and the large amounts of money the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) spends on improvements and maintenance. Without which, we would be in dire straits in moving our goods, which is vital to our very lively hoods and economic stimulation. I then started thinking about the smaller, less travelled routes around our country – the ones leading to beautiful vistas and hideaway B&B’s. Then there are roads to nowhere, with the Eastern Cape Provincial Government spending millions on road infrastructure, of which I fail to see the rationale. While others - a specific road in Stutterheim comes to mind - don’t get the attention they need for further economic activity in the region.

The State of the Province Address (SOPA) is around the corner. I implore MEC Somyo to: • Evaluate economic returns • Consider if jobs are affected by these roads • Consider the long-term impact versus the short term

N2 Port Edward to East London Many have opposed the development and construction of this long-awaited road. In my opinion, only those who have little or nothing to gain are objecting. A debate that considers the REAL return of such road versus the perceived negative effect is overdue. For example, the mining argument is superfluous because the road is far removed and cannot benefit any mining interests. Whereas the real opportunities in tourism and small business are staggering – creating much needed enterprise and new jobs. So instead of objecting because you can, consider that there are many good reasons and few wrong reasons.

The Voice

of Business

December Economic Activity By most accounts, the December/January season was better than expected. The number of tourist/visitors has been guesstimated and if resort and coastal bookings are an indication – full signs were posted especially between the 23rd December and 6th January, which bodes well for our tourism industry, which is coming out of a slump due to the ‘unabridged birth certificate’ debacle. Retail stores, with some exceptions, reported a satisfactory return and that targets were either met or exceeded. I wish you well for all your 2017 endeavours.

SA SMEs can expect light in 2017 after dark 2016 tunnel

ROM a small and medium enterprises (SME) perspective, the current economic environment is more conducive to growth and opportunity than it was a year ago. That’s according to Ben Bierman (pictured), Managing Director of Business Partners Limited, a specialist risk finance company for formal SMEs. “2016 saw a shift in terms of global politics and economic issues, specifically in South Africa, which brought about stronger cooperation between the private sector, government and civil society to better foster and increase the success of SMEs in 2017.” In the year ahead SMEs can expect better economic growth, inflation that will not be as severely impacted by rising food costs and an interest rate environment that will at worst not show dramatic increases in the prime rate, says Bierman. “These improved conditions should provide a more solid platform for local SMEs to grow and pursue their objectives in their respective sectors.” To support this outlook, Bierman points out that economic growth on both a global and local level is forecast to accelerate moderately this year.

“The International Monetary Fund (IMF) this month released its World Economic Outlook: January 2017 report which forecasts improvements in both global and SubSaharan African growth to 3.4% and 2.8% respectively. “South Africa’s economic activity is expected to rise by 0.8% in 2017, up from 0.3% in 2016, while locally, the South African Reserve Bank and National Treasury predicts growth of more than 1% for South Africa this year.” Bierman says that the higher rainfall expectancy is one of the contributing factors behind a more optimistic growth rate forecast for South Africa. “Coming out of a devastating drought, the agricultural sector is set for a better harvesting season in 2017. “This should positively contribute to the revival of the rural economy and economic growth in general and lessen South Africa’s reliance on food imports. Even though the sector contributes less than 3% to the GDP directly, it remains important as a growth stimulus due to its forward and backwards linkages with other economic sectors.

“The commodities cycle is also picking up, continuing on from the recovery experienced in 2016. Apart from indicating increased demand, the higher prices should bode well for our current account deficit and the mining sector,” he adds. Business confidence levels are also up from last year, says Bierman, referring to the December 2016 Business Confidence Index (BCI) released by the South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “December saw a reverse of the severe year-onyear decline of 10 index points in 2015, with a year-on-year increase of 1.6 index points in December 2016. This is the first time since February 2015 that this BCI has improved on a year-on-year basis, which means local businesses are more bullish about their prospects. “Confidence levels are an essential prerequisite for growth in investment. With 13 out of 19 indices showing improvement on the broader confidence indices being published, we can look forward to improved levels of investment and growth.” Enquiry no: 5

Bumper year for EC-based Chinese truck maker

AW Vehicle Manufacturers SA (Pty) Ltd. says it enjoyed a particularly memorable 2016, racking up milestones unmatched among FAW manufacturing plants outside of the company’s China headquartered plants. FAW SA started selling trucks locally more than 20 years ago, but over the last three years it’s stepped up its production and sales efforts considerably with a commitment of over $100 million in local plant, infrastructure, job creation and training. The Coega-based plant and nearby bodybuilding facility have only been in full operation for just over two years, but they have already notched up a significant milestone - last August the 2000th locally built truck rolled off the production line, bolstering the company motto, “Built in South Africa, for Africa”. In line with this, FAW SA has over the past few months recorded one of the most consist-

Hylton Nickisson 082 771 2952 Vuyo Bangazi 041 484 7722 www.eiegroup.co.za

ent month-on-month export drives in the SA truck building industry. The company recently exceeded the 200-unit mark in exports into African countries. Jianyu Hao, CEO of FAW SA said, “What is most gratifying is that many of the units being bought by sub-Saharan customers are now third, and soon to be delivered, our third generation repurchases. This affirms our commitment for service and support into the African regions.” BHL Haulage’s fleet consists of over 160 FAW trucks. Owner Buks van Rensburg is on record saying that for his copper route operations there is only one truck that works for Africa – the FAW 28.380FT truck tractor. Another of FAW’s popular units sold locally is the 5-tonner FAW 8.140FL which is widely regarded as among the lowest cost-per-tonne vehicles on the market. It was also the first

to carry a drivetrain with an international pedigree - the Cummins ISF engine and a ZF transmission. It also comes with full air-brakes, ABS and an air-cut parking brake. “The popular 8-tonner, FAW 15.180FL model, went on to end the year well with 295 units sold in 2016 – a growth of 16,1% yearon-year. A nice, healthy double digit growth rate,” said Hao. Another milestone for FAW SA was its benchmark of over 1 000 unit sales in a single year. “The indications for 2017 remain largely similar to 2016. It will be a tough and competitive market in slowly recovering economies. However, the opportunities are there and the chance of a 1% to 3% growth is possible. We at FAW SA will continue to build on our customer relationships as we explore every new Enquiry no: 6 possibility,” Hao said.

January / February 2017

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EC Industrial & Business News

PE operations help truck maker land 4th top OEM title

ince its inception in 2006, Isuzu Truck South Africa has aggressively pursued a clear objective – to be the Number 1 Japanese original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in South Africa, an objective it’s now achieved four times, with its PE operations playing an important part. It first reached that milestone in 2013, also the first year in the company’s history that over 4 000 Isuzu trucks were sold in South Africa – 4 019 units to be precise – which bumped the then market leader into second position. “We remained focused once we achieved the Number 1 position, but we were aware that it was not going to be an easy task staying at the top” said Craig Uren (pictured), Isuzu Truck South Africa’s Director and

Chief Operating Officer. It had a solid performance at the end of 2014, exceeding the 4 000 units sales mark for the second year in a row and remained the leader in the cab-over-chassis and medium commercial vehicle (MCV) segment of the industry, with a market share of 12.8% of the total truck market. N-Series products accounted for 21% of the MCV market, giving Isuzu Trucks market leadership of the segment while the F-Series range of trucks achieved 23.4% of the heavy commercial market (HCV) market. Since the introduction of the FX-Series the range continued to grow. In 2015 Isuzu Trucks aligned strategies, expanded the business model and coupled with solid sales efforts totalling 4 550 units from across the

dealer network, hit a new high and increased its market share by 2% to 14.9%. The company’s share in the MCV market increased to 27% while the share in the HCV market added four percentage points to a total share of 33%. The acquisition of Port Elizabeth based companies Kanu Commercial Body Construction (Pty) Ltd offers the opportunity to deliver readybuilt trucks to dealers faster, while chassis modifications are done by Automotive Chassis Technologies (ACT) where required. Both Kanu and ACT still service the local market and are not dedicated entirely to Isuzu Trucks. Although it described 2016 as a trying year, Isuzu Truck South Africa held onto its Number 1 position for the fourth consecutive year and

ended with a 14.6% market share from the total park of 3 952 units. With 1 971 units sold across the 19 N-Series model derivatives totalling 50% of total ITSA volume for 2016, Isuzu Trucks claimed 23.3% of the total MCV market (8 451 units including AMH). However, in the HCV market of 5 460 units, 28.3% or 1 545 units were Isuzu’s. “We wish to thank our Dealers and Isuzu Trucks’ Partners for their contribution to our continued success” said Hiroaki Sugawara, CEO and

Managing Director of Isuzu Truck South Africa. “Achieving the Number 1 position is no mean feat and to do so for four consecutive years is commendable”. In 2017, the company will continue to expand its business into Africa and invest in the local dealer network as it aligns long-term strategies. Enquiry no: 6

Making a difference in the civil engineering industry

AVING a committed and proactive bargaining council makes all the difference to an industry sector, says Nick Faasen, secretary general of the Bargaining Council for the Civil Engineering Industry (BCCEI). During 2016 the BCCEI completed a programme of workshops in all the major centres. Despite this, Faasen said it still appears that many companies in the civil engineering industry do not understand the numerous functions of its own bargaining council. “In fact, we have been inundated with questions regarding the role and function of the bargaining council. A bargaining council is not just about collective bargaining for wage increases.” The BCCEI is a sector-specific bargaining council created in terms of the Labour Relations Act, 1995 (LRA). Some of its main powers and functions are to: • make and manage collective agreements;

• prevent and resolve labour disputes; • establish and manage an administration and dispute resolution fund; • promote and establish training and education workshops; • establish and manage schemes or funds to benefit its parties or members; and • make and submit proposals on policies and laws that affect a sector or area. “The BCCEI has a responsibility

to the employer (companies) and the employees, and although it is a creature of stature, it is not state sponsored. It is funded through levies paid equally by employers and employees. The BCCEI operates for the benefit of the industry itself.” Faasen said he and his team are determined to level the playing fields in the civil engineering industry, and ensure fair competition which is practically important specifically at a time when the industry faces uncertainty. He acknowledged that dealing with a bargaining council can be a daunting process, but said it need not be. He said the team at the BCCEI’s various offices are well-equipped to assist with telephonic or face-to-face assistance and guidance. “Significantly, the council has a comprehensive website which is kept updated and allows immediate access to information that both employers and employees may need.” Faasen said that registering with

the BCCEI is mandatory under law, and the council conducts proactive educational audits to assist all those who fall within its jurisdiction. However, where a company is genuinely experiencing difficulty in meeting its obligations in

accordance with the agreement, there is a provision whereby it can apply for exemption and include an appeal process. The consideration and granting of such exemptions and appeals are carried out by independent bodies.

Enquiry no: 7

Coastal property boom

espite an overall modest slowdown in house price growth in South Africa’s residential property market, coastal metros are doing well. This is according to Pam Golding, which on Friday noted house price inflation averaged 4.88% in 2016, which is only marginally below the 2015 national average of 5.34%. It says the three coastal metropolitan markets of Cape Town, Nelson Mandela Bay and Durban continue to outperform the interior metro markets. Dr Andrew Golding, CEO of the

Pam Golding Property group, said that, while Cape Town remains by far the strongest metro housing market, Port Elizabeth and Durban have shown increasing growth in 2016. According to the latest data available from Lightstone, house price inflation in the Cape metro averaged 11.5% last year, while Port Elizabeth and Durban’s house price inflation remains above the national average at 7.2% and 6.8% respectively. “We believe that market growth will become increasingly concentrated in hotspots which continue to experi-

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ence high demand for a variety of factors, including convenient access to the metros or economic hubs, value for money, and as desirable and secure lifestyle locations,” Golding said. “Apart from the ongoing activity along the Cape coast, the Garden Route areas from Mossel Bay through to Knysna and Plettenberg Bay are experiencing heightened demand for homes, mainly among domestic buyers making a lifestyle choice to relocate.”

Enquiry no: 8

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January / February 2017

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Collaboration key

HILE we have started off the year sprinting – juggling new and old challenges in our everyday work environment, as well as in our economic and political environment – we do so with a survivalist spirit. Yes, 2016 was a tough and challenging year, but even the most pessimistic amongst us would admit that we learnt from 2016. And lessons, however tough they may seem at the time, enable us to grow and therefore I believe that 2017 could be a year full of promise and prosperity for the region. Allow me to reflect on what we consider to be a win for the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber. Following ongoing engagements with the Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, the city leadership has responded to the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber’s call to develop an overarching City Vision that goes beyond any one institution or organisation, to encompass the views of the entire community of Nelson Mandela Bay. We kick off the year with sector

specific workshops, hosted by the municipality, where the joint long-term strategic vision of the city will be thrashed out by the Business sector. As a Business Chamber we welcome this spirit of cooperation not only by the local municipality, but also the efforts of the provincial government, who recently hosted a pre-Budget Business Sector engagement in Nelson Mandela Bay with the Premier, various MECs and any councillors. We need an overarching economic vision for the region that unifies and galvanises us as a community, and creates an alignment between business, as well as local and provincial government. We value these engagements with government and call on all spheres of government to continue to have open, collaborative and transparent engagements with the business sector. However, a challenge that we as the Business Chamber still encounter, is transparency and a greater sense of

bay view

Kevin Hustler

urgency with regard to the move of the manganese and tank farm facilities from the Port of Port Elizabeth to the Port of Ngqura. The project is continuously stalling despite the urgency to unlock the valuable land to enhance the beauty of our waterfront. It is crucial for business and government to collaborate – in particular when it comes to development and planning – we simply cannot operate in a vacuum and need a transparent partnership to secure growth and development in the economy. Indeed we believe that to overcome economic and societal challenges, all parties need to create and engage in opportunities that will seek to find innovative solutions to reach our common objectives of growing the economy and creating more jobs for the region. The time has never been more right – it starts with us, now.

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Supply chain digitalisation

HE digital age has revolutionised the way society consumes and shares information. Within the commercial arena, there is hardly a business function that does not make use of technology to perform even the simplest of tasks. Supply chain has been one of the departments to embrace technology the slowest, however, the SCDigest Supply Chain Digitization Benchmark Survey 2016, released in mid-2016, revealed a shift in mind-set with about 80% of respondents identifying digitisation as a key focus area. Rudi Kruger (pictured), general manager at LexisNexis Risk Solutions said the key advantages of a digital shift for supply chain include enhanced security, reliability, reduced carbon footprint and cost saving. “Going digital serves as a means of staying competitive and safe while providing easy access to necessary documentation and procedures. This creates immediacy, transparency and ensures that those involved in supply chain are able to gain a cohesive overview,” said Kruger. An area most deserving of digitisation, said Kruger, is risk management in the form of vendor vetting and management during the procurement stage. The King Codes for Corporate Governance and legislation like the Public Finance Management Act and the Municipal Finance Management Act stipulate strict codes of conduct, which if not

abided by can mean fines, reputational damage or even jail time. “Procurement vendor vetting and vendor management are designed to limit or eliminate conflicts of interest, shell companies and other incidents of procurement fraud that can land your business in hot water,” said Kruger. “These steps therefore deserve adequate time, support and tools in order to be effective. In addition, it must be noted that once-off evaluation and screening are not enough to protect your business from unscrupulous activities, which is a why a permanent digital assistant is necessary to help with keeping things above board.” A solution like ProcureCheck, from LexisNexis Risk Governance, Risk and Compliance Solutions is the ideal online solution for vendor screening, ongoing monitoring and management in one place. The workflow solution understands, identifies and prevents fraud and conflicts of interest by giving clients all the information they need. Key Features of ProcureCheck include providing vendor and staff reports (useful for King III committees), allowing clients to build and manage thier own internal non-preferred list of vendors and employees as well as import vendor and staff lists. It also provides for vendor vetting on an ad hoc or batch basis. Enquiry no: 9

What does the transformation of global power markets mean for SA’s renewables industry?

ccording to a recently released report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), the surge in renewables energy projects globally has changed power markets for good. Over the next five years, the IEA forecasts that renewables will remain the fastest-growing source of electricity generation, with their share growing to 28% in 2021, from 23% last year. Renewables are also expected to cover more than 60% of the increase in world electricity generation over the medium term, rapidly closing the gap with coal. Generation from renewables is expected to exceed 7 600 TWh by 2021, which is equivalent to the total current electricity generation of the US and the European Union combined. “We are witnessing a transformation of global power markets led by renewables and, as is the case with other fields, the centre of gravity for renewables growth is moving to emerging markets,” IEA executive director Dr Fatih Birol said in a statement. South Africa’s Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer ’s Procurement Programme (REIPPPP), which was launched in 2012, has contributed to the global uptake of renewables in recent years,

but with national utility Eskom’s announcement that it won’t be putting out any more tenders for more renewables projects for, it remains to be seen what direction the country’s renewable energy sector will take and whether it can seize the opportunity provided by an increase in the demand for renewables. According to Eskom, “To prevent a repeat of the R4.27-billion net economic loss recorded in the first six months of 2016, Eskom should not sign the remaining expedited renewable IPPs, including bid window 4.5. In addition, costs linked to bid windows 1 to 3.5 should be ring-fenced and funded separately,” the utility said. The continued growth and opportunity for renewable project growth in both South Africa and the rest of the continent will be a keen focus area at the upcoming Africa Energy Indaba, Africa’s premier energy event - which takes place annually in February at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg. The event is the meeting place for Africa’s renewables dealmakers. At the 2017 event, investors, renewables companies, utilities and African government representatives will come together to chart the way for a renewables sector in the region. Enquiry no: 10

January / February 2017

EC Industrial & Business News

heating, cooling & ventilation

SA gas company hails ‘historic’ Kigali Agreement

peciality chemicals and gas company A-Gas South Africa has hailed the signing of the Kigali Amendment on 15 October 2016 as a “historic international agreement” for the phasedown of commonly-used, high GWP (Global Warming Potential) refrigerants. Global delegates convened in the Rwandan capital of Kigali from 10 to 15 October for the 28th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol. The Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer aims to reduce both the production and consumption of ozone-depleting substances. It was agreed upon on 16 September 1987, and came into force on 1 January 1989. A-Gas South Africa Commercial

Director Chris Phillips (pictured) points out that the company was established in 1993 to introduce ‘greener’ alternatives to the then widely-used CFCs (chlorofluorocarbons). “Since then we have built on this original guiding principle, specialising in the supply of the latest environmentally-acceptable refrigerants, in addition to developing world-class refrigerant recovery and reclamation facilities.” The Kigali meeting was aimed at negotiating a timetable to mandate countries to phase down the production and usage of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). HFCs are man-made

chemicals used mainly in airconditioning, refrigeration and foam insulation. These powerful greenhouse gases can be thousands of times more potent than carbon dioxide in contributing to climate change. Following seven years of continuous consultations, parties to the Montreal Protocol struck a landmark, legally-binding deal to reduce the emissions of powerful greenhouse gases. This could prevent up to 0.5 degrees Celsius of global warming by the end of this century, while continuing to protect the ozone layer. The final agreement split the world’s major economies into three groups, each with a target phase-

New SA distributor for Japanese air conditioning heavyweight

HI Carrier South Africa (Pty) Ltd. has announced that it will be the official distributor for Toshiba Air Conditioning of Japan in Southern Africa. The company introduced the latest SHRM-e Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat pump air-conditioning system from Toshiba at launch events in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. The countrywide launch events were attended by Ravi Hegde (GM, AHI Carrier FZC), Scott Meikle (MD, AHI South Africa), Jean-Francois Hendrickx (Sales & Marketing Director, Toshiba EMEA), Yuji Nishi (Sales Manager, TCTC Global Sales), and Martin Crute (Senior Project Engineer, Toshiba EMEA).

Meikle described the distributorship as “the latest feather-in-the-cap” for AHI Carrier South Africa (Pty) Ltd., a well-established player in the local HVAC sector. The company has shown consistent year-on-year growth since 2011, with a number of high-profile projects under its belt in the region. Toshiba Corporation, a diversified manufacturer of electronic and electrical products and systems, was established in 1875. It entered into a Joint Venture with Carrier Corporation in 1999 to form the Toshiba Carrier Corporation. This was aimed at boosting the company’s competitiveness by means of strategic cooperation from a global perspective. Carrier is one of the world’s largest

HVAC companies, while Toshiba is a leader in the residential and light commercial segment. Toshiba has prioritised design excellence and innovation for the past 30 years under the banner of ‘No Compromise. Only Quality’. “Therefore the addition of the Toshiba range of air-conditioners to the product line-up of AHI Carrier South Africa will enhance its ‘total solutions’ approach significantly. It will also open up new market segments for both companies, leading to increased market share and a greater footprint throughout the region,” Meikle said. Enquiry no: 12

Accurate indoor air quality measurements The meter meets ISO 21501, JIS B9921 and CE standards. The 985 comes with a cradle for charging and USB and Ethernet communications, ENET CAT5E cable, USB-A to MINI-B cable,

down date. The most developed countries, including the US and the European Union, will reduce the production and consumption of HFCs from 2019. Most of the world, including China, Brazil, and all of Africa, will freeze the use of HFCs by 2024. A small group of the world’s hottest countries, such as Bahrain, India, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, only have to halt HFC production and use by 2028. A notable presence at the signing of the Kigali Agreement was top officials from the chemicals

industry, including producers and manufacturers of equipment that uses HFCs. This was a clear demonstration that the entire HFC supply chain supports decisive action to halt the production and use of these harmful substances globally. “In all A-Gas regions, Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) are regulated under the Montreal Protocol, perceived as the most successful international treaty in history. Hence the inclusion of HFCs is an important addition,” Phillips said. Enquiry no: 11

Hazardous Area Process Heaters Custom built electric heaters to client specifications • Heaters ATEX certified for use in Zone 1 and 2 hazardous areas • Zone 1, Gas Group II • Class 1, Division1, Gas Group A, B, C & D • Single heaters up to 5000 kW • Vessel Design code ASME VIII Division 1 and 2, with U-stamp • Complete design and supply of skid-mounted or packaged units • Thyristor controlled heater

12 VDC power supply, zero count inlet-filter, filter adapter, sample inlet protective cap, hard case, getting started manual and user manual CD. Enquiry no: 13

luke, represented locally by the Comtest Group, is offering the Fluke 985 Particle Counter, a rugged, highly accurate meter that measures airborne particles to troubleshoot and monitor indoor air quality (IAQ). According to the company, the 985 is ideal for facility maintenance, HVAC and IAQ professionals to monitor cleanroom and conduct HVAC filter testing and IAQ commissioning and investigations in buildings. Other applications include: contamination and quality control; energy assessment; indoor air quality investigations; filter testing and leak detection. Fluke’s 985 Particle Counter features include: • Six particle size channels with a range of 0.3 µm -10 µm, assuring accurate measurements • Rugged, ultra-lightweight, ergonomic design for easy single-hand operation • In-device storage of 10,000 records for easy access to historical data • Ten hours of standard-use battery life to last a full workday The 985 has a large 3.5 inch QVGC colour display with backlight and intuitive icons plus a large font option for easy navigation and viewing. It features configurable settings for the display, sample methods and sample size alarm. Data can be presented in traditional tabular or as a trend graph and exported to a USB memory stick or directly to a PC via a USB or Ethernet cable.

For more information, contact Energas Technologies

Specialized Measurement, Control and Filtration Tel: +27 (0) 11 397 68 05/9 | sales@energas.co.za

www.energas.co.za

January / February 2017

heating, cooling & ventilation

EC Industrial & Business News

The benefits of cloud-connected chillers

ith Connected Maintenance, Johnson Controls is bringing an Internet of Things (IoT) solution to its clients — providing the kind of connectivity to high-end chillers in South Africa it says will extend their lifespans and save owners maintenance down-

ers,” said Neil Cameron, the company’s Area General Manager, Building Efficiency, Africa. “Our Connected Maintenance offering targets sophisticated high-end chillers – air and water cooled chillers above 800kW – providing the technology to connect them to Johnson Controls’ database. By monitoring their performance in real-time, we know when they are functioning beyond or below standard specifications. The database will then report the anomaly to the client, providing insight into potential problems.” Having the right fault information to hand is critical. “It means a maintenance team can be dispatched to the site with the right parts, tools and expertise to address the problem immediately,”said Cameron. “This can save a lot of critical downtime. In addition, a small repair in time can save the very high costs of a major failure. “Quite often, minor problems escalate quickly to a crisis. For example, a simple oil leak that is not identified and repaired in time may lead to replacement of a compressor. In older machines, the cost of that replacement is high enough to merit purchasing a new

time and costs. “Digital technologies are seeing scheduled and break-fix maintenance models replaced with condition-based maintenance and that matches Johnson Controls’ philosophy to increase the uptime and lifespan of its chill-

machine.” What does it take to get connected? Johnson Controls’ high-end chillers already have the microprocessors needed to relay performance data built in. The company provides a router and opens a gateway into the cloud to connect with the Johnson Controls’ database. All data traffic is free. Reporting and alerting is automated, providing ongoing updates on performance and potential challenges. The client can view data remotely on any device and can connect to the Johnson Controls database for troubleshooting and to view performance history. “In effect, Connected Maintenance makes it easier, faster and cheaper to maintain our clients’ chillers,” said Cameron. “It extends the lifespan of the chillers and increases their reliability. Our clients are able to optimise their investment and we get to provide them with excellent service. It’s a win for everyone.” As an added incentive to go digital, the company is offering a discount on service contracts for clients who connect their chillers to the cloud. Enquiry no: 14

New French airflow meter for SA

Donkin Fans specializes in the design, manufacture & supply of pre-engineered fans & accessories. Domestic Ventilation | Commercial Building Ventilation | Industrial | Process | Petro-Chemical | Agriculture Mining & Associated Processes | Iron & Steel | Transportation JOHANNESBURG Cnr Mentz Street and Booysens Reserve Johannesburg P.O. Box 9501 Johannesburg 2000, Tel (S/Board): +27 (0)11 240 4350/4364, Fax: 088 011 240 4350 PORT ELIZABETH Libertas Road, Stuandale, P.O. Box 919, 6000, South Africa Tel: +27(0)41 409 1400, Fax: +27(0)41 456 3128

RENCH manufacturer of 30 years’ experience, KIMO recently introduced a new generation of airflow meters and they’re now available locally through ASSTech. The company is positioning the DBM 610 as a necessary tool for all professionals involved in HVAC, for airflow commissioning and balancing. The device can be used on any supply or exhaust, and rectilinear, helical or toric air distributors. With a measuring range from 40 to 3500 m³/h compensated in temperature, it allows highly accurate checking of ventilation system efficiency to optimize air distribution within premises. Measurements include airflow direction,

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averaging, max/min temperature, Delta P and freeze. The company describes the DBM 610 as extremely easy to use. It’s equipped with a transparent shield on the hood for easy positioning and easy reading of data on the digital display. As the measuring unit is removable, it can be used as a micromanometer: with Pitot tube to measure airflow in a duct, or with 2 silicone tubes to check filter fouling. Lightweight and simple to mount in less than one minute, the device is supplied with a frame and standard hood measuring 610 x 610 mm. Other size options are 720 x 720 mm, 720 x 1320 mm, 420 x 1520 mm and 1020 x 1020 mm. Enquiry no: 15

Accurate relative humidity and high temp measurements in harsh environments

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any industrial processes involve high temperatures, often combined with harsh and corrosive environments. These types of conditions are not normally the best environment for precision instrumentation to be placed, as the sensors and equipment can degrade quickly. Michell Instruments, represented locally by Instrotech, is now offering their new rugged DT722 relative humidity and temperature transmitters for industrial use. According to the company, these pre-configured products have been chosen to meet the requirements of many standard humidity measurement applications. They are specifically designed for process applications within HVAC, agriculture and environment, where accurate, stable measurement and control of humidity and temperature is required. Features include: • Designed for accurate measurement in a harsh environment • Calculated moisture signal output, optional • Integral loop powered display – optional • 0 to 100% RH / -40 to +150°C operating ranges • Long term stability: ±1% RH over 12 months • M12 fast connector and cable gland The company says the units are reliable and robust with a strong, stainless steel housing providing corrosion resistance, protection against rough handling or accidental damage and ingress protection to IP65 (NEMA 4). Additionally, the probe can withstand temperatures up to 150°C. Enquiry no: 16

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2016/02/08 12:31 PM

January / February 2017

EC Industrial & Business News

industrial property & development

New life for iconic Port Elizabeth retail node S

Enquiry no:17

Beware of potentially deadly fire safety shortcuts

because they elect to apply only certain elements of the framework – completely unaware that they are putting people’s lives and assets at risk. Potentially deadly shortcuts include simply copying and pasting from previous rational design reports, unaware that they are including errors or mistakes in evaluating or applying fire engineering principles; sometimes even including errata in formulae or fire safety designs. According to Van Niekerk, the three main causes of fire are electrical, arson and heating equipment. “In the event of a major fire that results in immense damage and the possible death of occupants, the fire engineer will be held liable. Rational design takes into account

the behaviour of a building during a fire, thereby minimising the potentially devastating impact it might have,” he says. The products stored or manufactured in the building, the occupants of the building and the built and natural environments are also analysed. Other aspects to consider include how people will respond to a fire, based on their level of alertness and familiarity with their surroundings. A fundamental basic is that the building should be designed to withstand fire so that occupants, including disabled persons, can escape safely, and appropriate fire equipment must be in an adequate and easily-accessible area. “Fires can be dealt with through three main actions. The first is controlling the growth of the fire to prevent it from spreading. The next is suppression, which involves rapidly cooling the fire. Finally, extinguishing the fire means that there is no heated substance remaining. Evacuation should also be safe and easy while allowing unrestricted access for emergency services. “The installed fire detection system must be able to pick up the fire as soon as possible, so that it can warn occupants and allow them to escape before untenable conditions are reached,” says Van Niekerk. Enquiry no: 19

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s the South African construction market experiences a shortage of structural timber, imports of the material have become necessary and are on the rise. In light of this, the Institute for Timber Construction South Africa (ITC-SA) has stressed that all structural timber destined for – and employed by – the South African market must be compliant with local legislation. National Building Regulations require that all structural timber is compliant with SANS 1783, which covers sawn softwood timber, and both national and international manufacturers of structural timber supplied to the South African market are expected to be certified by a South African-based ISO 17065-accredited certification body. This also applies to South Africa’s neighbouring countries, like Swaziland and Zimbabwe, for example. “Even so, it is not uncommon for noncompliant structural timber to be imported and supplied to the local market – including to formal roof truss manufacturers – without there being any knowledge of the integrity of the finger joints, adhesive used, or the grading of the timber,” said Abe Stears, Managing Director of the South African Technical Auditing Services (SATAS). “Worse, when a batch of non-compliant imported timber is rejected by a buyer, it is commonplace for that timber to simply be sold on to another unsuspecting buyer. In this way, non-compliant imported timber for structural applications may still find its way into the South African market.” Presently, only SATAS and the South Africa Bureau of Standards (SABS) are accredited to certify manufacturers of products in compliance with SANS 1783. “It is both unfair and unacceptable to expect local manufacturers to comply at a cost with the requirements to ensure that a quality product is supplied to the end user, while noncompliant imported timber is allowed to be used in structural components,” says Stears. “Even though South Africa is experiencing a shortage of structural timber that necessitates the use of imports, we have to ensure that the same rules apply to this timber, and that all timber coming into the South African structural timber market is in compliance with SANS 1783. “All industry professionals who make use of structural timber are urged not only to be aware of national legislation around the use of structural timber, but to not make use of any imported – or locally produced, for that matter – timber that does not comply with South Enquiry no: 18 African standards"

nhaling five breaths in a smoke filled room can lead to death. It is therefore imperative for buildings to be designed to allow for safe escape and the control of fire and smoke, as a minor design flaw could potentially put people, equipment and property at risk. All buildings in South Africa need to comply with the requirements of the National Building Regulations and Building Standards Act, 1977 (Act No. 103 of 1977), Fire Protection, as set out in SANS 10400 Part T: 2011. Any deviation from the prescriptive requirements or limitations requires a rational design to be completed in accordance with the fire engineering methodology framework requirements of BS 7974, application of fire safety engineering principles to the design of buildings, supported by the published documents that form part of the BS 7974 framework. Johannesburg-based ASP Fire is a specialist in this field. CEO Michael van Niekerk says that a rational design begins with a fire risk consultant visiting the premises, or reviewing a set of new building plans, for a comprehensive evaluation of all areas of the property – looking at all areas of fire safety and risk in detail. “Sound fire engineering principles are applied to ensure that the design complies with the life, building, fire behavioural and environmental fire safety objectives required by law.” When undertaking a rational design, ASP Fire abides by the framework that is set out in the internationally-recognised BS7974 British fire safety standard. Van Niekerk says many designers in South Africa do not follow this methodology, either because they do not fully understand it, or

SVA International is completing the R420m mammoth overhaul of Port Elizabeth’s iconic Greenacres Shopping Centre. Renovations on the centre will wrap up in the first half of 2017, with a new Virgin Active gym opening alongside the centre midyear.

modern and earthy design elements added to the new-look centre include natural timber strip ceilings celebrating the entrances, with the timber theme carrying through into the centre’s furniture. Multi-glass panelling and green walls at the new entrances – elevated from 4m in the old centre to a striking 12m high with the new design – further enhance the earthy, real feel which is continued with spring-shaped bicycle stands. Now stores spill onto walkways with much less of a divide between them and the general public areas, which gives the effect of walking down a main shopping street, he said. “The combination of the relocated food court as a social and commercial connector, the bold entrances, new branding, and creative freedom given to SVA based on a sound client relationship has resulted in a revitalised, contemporary renovation,” said Ravat.

reloegue 320 pages

Don’t use non-compliant imported structural timber

the four entities are separately owned, they boast a combined gross lettable area (GLA) of about 90 000m². According to Jannie Wagenaar, one of the SVA architects heading the project, the revamp has taken Greenacres from an eighties icon and transformed it into a contemporary attraction with floating cantilevered roofs at its various imposing entrances, with an abundance of natural light and an airy atmosphere. “When Greenacres opened its doors, the invogue shopping centre design was very much a heavy geometric-patterned style, with low ceilings and narrow passages,” said Wagenaar. “Over the years, shopping centres have developed into very social spaces – the equivalent of the new main shopping streets for communities with wide, flowing walkways, high ceilings and lots of natural light. This is what the new Greenacres represents.” According to SVA Associate and lead architect on the project, Shadley Ravat, some

Cat

VA International Architects are nearing completion of the mammoth twoyear, R420-million upgrade of one of South Africa’s iconic retail nodes, Greenacres Shopping Centre. The radical transformation of the Port Elizabeth retail icon is set to wrap up in the first half of 2017, with the cherry on top being the opening of a state-of-the-art Virgin Active gym adjoining the centre next July. The upgrade is one of the many transformations undertaken by the architectural firm, which has had a long relationship with Greenacres, having been at the helm since the design of the original building for OK Bazaars (now Shoprite/Checkers), which opened on October 22, 1981. Since the building of OK Bazaars on the grounds of the former Fairview Race Course, Greenacres has grown into a 46 500m² shopping centre, being joined over the years by Shoprite, Woolworths and The Bridge. Although

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2016/05/19 11:05 AM

January / February 2017

EC Industrial & Business News

Engineering & allied supplies

E Mobility, a company based in western Johannesburg, and South Africa’s leading manufacturer of mobility aids for the past 65 years recently commissioned an upgrade to its tube mill.

The company produces a full range of wheelchairs from the most basic to sophisticated motorised models. Many of these are further customised to meet clients’ particular individual requirements.

Welding a sound relationship

he company also produces other aids such as canes, crutches and walkers. In addition, as a sideline, CE Mobility manufactures tent poles, directors’ chairs and lawnmower handles. With 120 employees involved in the manufacturing process, CE Mobility performs functions such as CNC machining and cutting, powder coating, bending and notching inhouse at its factory in Maraisburg. “This approach allows us to produce wheelchairs and other mobility aids at a highly competitive cost without compromising on quality,” said CE Mobility Manager, Rodney Outram (pictured). However, wheelchairs have to be very robust as they are very often in use 18 hours a day, 365 days a year. Their strength is achieved through their tubular construction and the actual quality of the steel that is used in manufacture. “Generally we use SAE1010 in the manufacturing process; however, when very high steel strength is required, we use ‘Docol’ steel imported from Sweden. This is thinner - but far stronger - than other grades of steel typically used. Whereas normal mild steel strength is rated at 380 MPa, this high tensile, ‘Docol’ steel rates at 1000 MPa,” said Outram. In spite of stringent quality standards and controls, under the burden of constant use, even the strongest of wheelchairs wear out and need replacement with newer models. Pivotal to the company’s manufacturing process is CE Mobility’s tube mill, which converts

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flat steel into steel tube. The tube mill has a welder fitted to it, to join the seam in the pipe and complete the process. However, CE Mobility’s tube mill/welder combination was 48 years old. While this did not overtly affect the efficiency of the mill, the valve welder - now obsolete - was starting to show its age. “Over the past five years, increasingly, the valve welder we had was proving to be a production bottleneck,” explains Outram. To find a solution regarding the ageing welder, Outram consulted Elquip Solutions’ Managing Director Mike Cronin. “Eleven years ago, we had purchasing consumables from Elquip Solutions; and this developed into a really cordial and mutually beneficial working relationship,” Outram said. Cronin said, “We had in our product range a technically advanced ‘solid state’ (SS) welder ideally suited for this application, which we sourced from our international principal Unitherm.” In addition, Elquip Solutions upgraded the mill with modern motor drives. The combination of a new welder and upgraded mill has meant faster production with improved quality and less waste for CE Mobility. Outram said the installation and commissioning process was quick and efficient, and they planned their production schedule around it accordingly. “The mill and welder being able to return to service after just two Enquiry no: 20 weeks.

To this end, First Cut, a leading South African manufacturer and distributor of cutting consumables to the local market for 60 years, designed a blade with a varied pitch tooth configuration, which clears both wood swarf and metal particles from the cut efficiently. As the blade is used in a reciprocating hand-held power saw, it has been designed to be fairly rigid. To do this, First Cut developed a bi-metal blade, where the ‘body’ of the blade is of a softer material than the cutting edge, which is made of a hardened, high-speed steel (HSS), suited for highspeed cutting. The two types of steel are laser-welded together by the Swiss raw material supplier to form the blade blank. “It was a question of finding the right combination of metals for use in the bi-metal, without it being prohibitively expensive,” said Ian McCrystal, CEO of First Cut. Considering that the quality of the cut is not a major consideration, and that there is every likelihood that rough handling will break the blade long before it goes blunt, the quality of the blade has to be a sensible compromise, he explains. However, as the blades work in a harsh and demanding environment, the pallet blades have been designed with rugged longevity in mind. “In developing a blade such as this, we started with a prototype, and working with feedback from the customer, developed a blade that was fit-for-purpose. For example, if the customer told us that the blades were going blunt too quickly, then we would work on improving the hardness of the teeth,” he said. Agriculture uses many varied types of First Cut blades. For example, every farmer has a hacksaw and conventional wood saw at least. Meat farmers and processors use a number of purpose-manufactured blades for their specialised applications. And then, for those farming timber, First Cut produces a range of specialised blades for cutting logs into planks. Enquiry no: 21

January / February 2017

EC Industrial & Business News

automation & robotics

How new tech is helping to fight fake pharmaceuticals

ounterfeiting of pharmaceuticals not only impacts on the revenue flow of licenced manufacturers, but falsified medicines may contain active ingredients that are of bad quality or in the wrong dosage. Without proper evaluation of the quality, safety and efficacy, such counterfeit drugs could represent a genuine health hazard. That’s the warning from Victor Marques, Country General Manager for Omron, who believes the company’s expertise in machine automation and vision systems makes it ideally placed to advise and assist in implementing serialisation systems to reduce counterfeiting and improve consumer information in the pharmaceutical industry. The potential dangers of counterfeiting means manufacturers are required to trace individual products and batches – not only

through their own manufacturing processes, but right through the whole supply chain to the consumer. The stringent requirements for serialisation presents two key challenges for manufacturers. The first is to look at how they manage data internally, with supply chain partners and with consumer-oriented servers. The second is to look at how they will need to change production hardware and processes. Two main approaches to meeting these new demands in terms of data management and production processes have emerged: the single-system point-to-point solution, and the flexible layer solution. The single-system point-to-point solution (closed single supplier solution) is a ready-touse system that fulfils all requirements from printing and inspection to data handling and

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exchange with the supply chain and government servers. The flexible layer approach (open solution) separates the data/content-handling aspects from the hardware considerations in the production line. Furthermore, it works towards an open structure with defined interfaces between the different solution levels. The goal is to provide the freedom to select the printers, serialisation software, ERP/master data environment and to integrate these into existing IT and machine environments. Data-handling solutions can be tailored to the needs of individual stakeholders, including producers, repackers, CMOs and supply-chain partners. The system is highly flexible, meaning that users can readily adapt to changes and new demands on the production line. Enquiry no: 22

Mobile monitoring makes for app-ier customers

ommvault, a global provider of enterprise backup, recovery and archive services recently announced the launch of its Mobile Advantage App and Automated Proactive Solution System (APSS) framework, bringing innovations in mobile access, control and automation to customers. This coincides with the company receiving a more than 98% customer satisfaction rating in its annual support and services survey review. According to the company, the rating marks the sixth consecutive year it has exceeded industry averages in performance and customer satisfaction. It believes it will continue to receive such ratings thanks to innovations like the newly launched Mobile Advantage App and APSS framework, which is an integrated proactive solutions delivery system.

The framework proactively monitors and detects failure points in Commvault environments, then intelligently maps personalised solutions that address those issues. “Commvault has taken its excellent customer support program to another level through its recent release of the Mobile Advantage App and Proactive support available through the APSS framework,” said Serge Bakharev, Senior Integration Specialist, Perfekt Pty Ltd. “While we have always had great experiences with Commvault’s dedicated support staff, these new solutions give us the added ability to take action on any potential issues regardless of where we are, eliminating the need to make unnecessary support calls and allowing us to address potential issues faster than ever by ourselves.” Available on all current Android and iPhone

platforms, the new Commvault Mobile Advantage app is designed to provide customers with continuous access to tools, services, and information that give them control of their Commvault experience. Mobile Advantage is an integrated Commvault services portal. Commenting on the positive customer feedback, Commvault’s Vice President, Worldwide Customer Support, Eugene Trautwein said, “While we are proud of our six year streak of shattering industry averages with our world class Customer Support and services, Commvault has never been a company to rest on its laurels and previous successes,”. “Our new innovations around customer access, control and automation are a testament to our commitment to push the envelope further and elevate our worldwide customer Enquiry no: 23 support to historic proportions.”

NTERNET-linked assets and machines can Imatters improve operations when information that is delivered to the people who can

use it best. Yet, equipment builders who invested heavily to build smart machines often are blind to the use and performance of their products after deployment. It was to address this issue that Rockwell Automation recently launched its FactoryTalk Analytics for Machines cloud application, a Microsoft Azure cloud-enabled capability that empowers equipment builders with information. As part of the company’s expanded Information Solutions strategy, the application provides access to performance analytics from deployed systems in order to gain valuable insight to support their customers. For manufacturers going through a digital transformation, this capability capitalises on connected technologies to help drive higher availability and output while reducing maintenance costs. “The sophistication of plants today has made specialisation and collaboration essential,” said Axel Rodriguez, SaaS/Cloud products manager, Rockwell Automation. “Your manufacturing operations and maintenance teams have a lot on their plates. Allowing your equipment builders – who know their machines like the backs of their hands – to become collaborators in performance analytics can free up the best minds to focus on optimising entire lines, plants or applications.” OEMs can embed a FactoryTalk Cloud gateway device onto the machines they provide. Once commissioned, the machine starts collecting data. The data from selected controllers is sent to the FactoryTalk cloud application securely with minimal configuration by the equipment builder or the end user. The equipment builder then has access to real-time analytics and actionable information Enquiry no: 24 via prebuilt dashboards.

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COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Ngqura liquid bulk terminal operator appointed T he Port of Ngqura is poised to play a vital role in ensuring the security of South Africa’s fuel supply, while creating a new petroleum trading hub for Southern Africa in anticipation of the relocation of existing liquid bulk facilities from Port Elizabeth. This follows the conclusion of an agreement between Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) and Oiltanking Grindrod Calulo (Pty) Ltd (OTGC) to plan, fund, construct, own, maintain and operate a new liquid bulk handling facility at the Port of Ngqura. The project is one of the Section 56 initiatives that TNPA has identified to encourage private sector participation as a key element of the company’s market demand strategy (MDS). It will provide storage and marine infrastructure to support the overall

petroleum demand projections for South Africa. Bulk liquids such as petroleum, diesel, jet fuel, illuminated paraffin and liquid petroleum gas, will be transported to the Port of Ngqura via ship and piped to the tank farm prior to local supply and/or local and global re-export. The facility will create a new tank farm for the Eastern Cape when the existing lease for petroleum storage facilities at the Port Elizabeth harbour expires. According to the ports authority, OTGC was appointed as preferred bidder following an open and transparent tender process. “We are extremely excited that the agreement with OTGC has been concluded and that we can welcome a world-class independent storage operator to the Port of Ngqura,” said Richard Vallihu, Chief Executive of TNPA.

“This development will now also allow us to focus on expansion at the Port of Port Elizabeth. When the Ngqura facility becomes operational, the Port Elizabeth tank farm will be decommissioned and the site will be rehabilitated, which will free up port land for future expansion plans at Port Elizabeth.” OTGC, a majority South African owned Level 2 BBBEE company, is an independent bulk liquid storage provider in South Africa which combines Oiltanking GmbH’s world-class expertise in handling bulk liquids with the local expertise and the full Black Economic Empowerment credentials of Grindrod South Africa (Pty) Ltd and Calulo Terminals (Pty) Ltd. Oiltanking is one of the world’s leading independent storage partners for oils, chemicals, gases and dry bulk. Oiltanking owns and oper-

ates 81 terminals in 23 countries with a total storage capacity of 21 million cubic meters. “As an independent bulk liquid logistics operator, OTGC has been investigating the petroleum and chemical market in South Africa for several years. Current petroleum demand projections for South Africa strongly support the need for significant investments in tank storage infrastructure to cater for the country’s liquid fuel supply,” said Gideon Loudon, Chief Executive Officer of OTGC. “OTGC’s main objective in the Port of Ngqura is to develop a worldclass, highly efficient and responsibly operated liquid bulk terminal facility in South Africa. OTGC shall build the terminal facility in strict accordance with the Oiltanking global technical, operating and HSSEQ standards.” Construction of the facility is esti-

mated to commence in September 2017 and continue until June 2019. It will be commissioned during JuneJuly 2019 and the planned operational date is August 2019. The liquid bulk facility at the port includes the loading and offloading facilities at berth B100, the services and equipment to perform operations at the berth, pipeline connectivity to the liquid bulk facility, the buildings, tanks, structures, paving and surfacing on the 20 hectare site designated as the liquid bulk facility. The Port of Ngqura became an operational port in October 2009 and is the youngest port owned and managed by TNPA. Port infrastructure for the liquid bulk facility is in place at the port and bulk services and road access to the liquid bulk facility have already been completed. Enquiry no: 25

Recognition for well-run Eastern Cape IDZ

he Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has congratulated the the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) on a well-managed IDZ. “Coega is a flagship programme we are very proud of. It’s effectively the best functioning and most successful IDZ in the country and also has world-class management and corporate governance,” said DTI Director General Lionel October on a recent visit to the zone. The DG’s visit follows from the department’s engagement with the Eastern Cape government on

the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) programme. CDC CEO Pepi Silinga, who accompanied October on a tour of the IDZ, highlighted the DTI’s contribution and commitment towards the success of the Coega IDZ, saying, “We remain forever indebted to the DTI for its continued support and guidance throughout the years”. The CDC’s 2015/16 highlights include the signing of 17 new investors with a total value of R26.99 billion. Over the past five years, the CDC signed a total of 61 new investors with a combined

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Lionel October – DG DTI (centre) flanked by (left to right) Johan Fourie - Senior Manager, Sandisiwe Ncemane – CDC Projects Development Manager Energy, Keith Buhr – CDC Unit Head Commercial, Lionel Billing– CDC CFO, Luvuyo Mkontwana – CDC Senior Manager CEO’s Office, Linda Sityoshwana – CDC Trade Solutions Projects Manager, Christopher Mashigo – CDC Executive Manager Business Development, Gustav Meyer – CDC Senior Manager: Transport Industries, Pepi Silinga – CDC CEO and Dr Ayanda Vilakazi – CDC unit head marketing and communications.

investment value of R35.8 billion. Currently, the CDC has 36 operational investors in the Coega IDZ with an accumulated investment value of R6.609 billion. In line with the organisation’s mandate to reduce unemployment in the province, the CDC created 18 366 jobs in the Coega IDZ - 7 174 operational jobs and 11 192 construction jobs - in the period 2015/16. Since its inception in 1999, the organization has successfully created more than 96 776 job opportunities and trained more than 85 886 people. Dr Ayanda Vilakazi, CDC’s head of

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a completely knocked down (CKD) automotive manufacturing plant in the Coega IDZ. This investment promises to have a far-reaching economic impact in terms Gross Domestic Product in the Eastern Cape and the country at large, with thousands of jobs expected to be created. In addition, the Coega IDZ was selected as one of the locations for the gas-to-power programme with 1000 MW of the power facility to be located in the Coega IDZ. This project is key for energy security, diversity and socio-economic development.

Enquiry no: 26

New global mining, civil engineering company on the cards

he board of Sweden-based industrial multinational, Atlas Copco, is proposing a split of the group which will turn the Mining and Rock Excavation Technique Business Area and division Construction Tools into a separate company. This new company will be dedicated to customers within mining and civil engineering. It will include 12 000 employees, comprising all divisions within the Mining and Rock Excavation Technique Business Area plus the division Construction Tools and related service. According to a statement from Atlas Copco, the rationale is to ensure that both it and the new company are

2017-01-20 10:01:10

marketing and communication, attributed these results to the successful implementation of their five-year sustainable growth strategy aimed at creating a sustainable organization that will continue to create job opportunities, training and development, as well as SMME development and support. “The Coega IDZ is now well positioned as a leading South African investment destination of choice,” said Vilakazi. In this current year, the CDC successfully concluded a commercial deal of R11 billion with BAIC for

provided the best growth opportunities in their respective market segments. “The new company will have a dedicated board and CEO; this will result in a more agile company governance and faster response to market requirements. Operationally there will not be any changes to the existing structure, as there already is a solid organization in place,” the company said. This structure will further enable investments in growth areas like automation, digitalization and service excellence. “This is a fantastic opportunity. With the new company solely dedicated to mining and civil engineering we can serve our customers even better

than today,” said Helena Hedblom, Business Area President, Mining and Rock Excavation Technique. “From an organisational point of view there will be no changes. We have strong Customer Centers, professional people, excellent products and superior services. Our customer support will be reinforced as we can run operations more focused from present premises.” The new company will be listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange from mid 2018 following approval at the Atlas Copco annual general meeting in April 2018.

January / February 2017

EC Industrial & Business News

Instant power with prefab sub-stations

peed of installation and cost-effectiveness on a number of fronts make Shaw Controls’ electrical houses (E-Houses) a popular choice for contractors and other users, according to the company’s managing director Bevan Richards. An E-House is a prefabricated power distribution substation that is deployed to site as a fully assembled and integrated unit. They are designed, engineered and manufactured by Shaw Controls – part of the Zest WEG Group – at their facility in Johannesburg. “A major advantage of an E-House over a brick-and-mortar substation is that it can be installed and commissioned without the need to establish a complex civil infrastructure,” said Richards. “This saves on the costs of planning and managing civil works – especially in remote areas where the cost of civil and infrastructure construction tends to be higher.” He highlighted the cost advantage of dealing with a single supplier – which will free up many hours of project management and allow for a seamless process from design through to fabrication, with all these activities undertaken at one location.

“This means a smaller team for the project’s engineer or consultant managing the project, leading to better productivity and resultant cost savings.” A further cost advantage is achieved by the time saved through combining all the related disciplines when engineering and producing the E-House. When constructing a brick-and-mortar substation, a structure is first completed before a number of separate elements – mostly prepared off-site by a number of different suppliers – have to then be integrated into the building. “This undertaking is complex and often involves numerous sub-contractors – so it is often open to human error,” he said. “With an E-House, on the other hand, this integration is carefully co-ordinated at the facility of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), where any teething problems can be immediately addressed.” With all construction taking place at Shaw Controls’ pus-12 000 m2 plant it’s also easier for customers to do all their quality and functional checks in one place. This ensures that the final power distribution solution is delivered as a ‘plug-and-play’ to Enquiry no: 28 site.

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Local business scoops string of top awards S ince Sibongile Booi established the first virtual office solution in the Eastern Cape in 2011, she and her company, Second Office, have been widely acknowledged for providing local and national businesses with an innovative, cost-saving and highly flexible business and serviced office solution. Last October, Second Office was announced as the first runner-up in the services and trade category of the 2016 Eskom Business Investment Competition (BIC), aimed at recognising and rewarding small businesses that are significantly contributing to the fight against unemployment and poverty and growing our economy. “Small businesses play an immensely important role in unlocking doors to economic opportunities and inclusive growth. Through the Eskom Development Foundation, we remain committed to playing our part in this field by acknowledging the difference that small black-owned businesses make in our economy,” said Dr Baldwin

al of hydraulic tubing from the engine compartment, thus reducing the risk of fire.” Parker says it’s E-Steering solutions are also cleaner and help minimise maintenance as potential oil leaks are reduced in line with fewer hydraulic line connections. “Furthermore, engine designers will find that they are able to reduce the size of the Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) by averaging the required steering power through the electric power stored in the b a t tery. A smaller ICE h e l p s improve fuel economy and reduce emissions, which is vital on many city centre bus operating routes where lowemission zones are now prevalent.” Each high-efficiency, low-noise E-Steering system is pre-engineered with fully validated pressure, flow and voltage characteristics. Moreover, the drives, low-inertia PMAC motors and hydraulic pumps are mechanically matched, so there is no need for extra adaptors. Parker also claims reduced development and installation time. Typical operating voltages range from 24 to 800 VDC to adapt to every battery pack, alongside a flow rates up to 300 l/min, and a pressure up to 300 bars can be achieved. Higher pressure ratings can be obtained on request through another pump Enquiry no: 29 technology.

Ngubane, Chairman of the Board of Eskom Holdings. Second Office, along with the other BIC finalists, also participated in the Small Business Expo, held alongside the Buy a Business Expo in Johannesburg, providing an opportunity to market themselves and interact with corporates, investors and potential clients. “The Eskom Development Foundation has exposed us to markets we normally would have not been exposed to, and the BIC certificate has brought us so much recognition,” said Booi. Second Office was also named as one of just 46 small business owners countrywide who are recipients of the SAB Foundation Tholoana Fund, selected from more than 2000 applications. According to Catherine Wijnberg, who founded Fetola, the implementing partner of Tholoana: “The Tholoana programme is specifically keen to support enthusiastic, passionate entrepre-

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E-steering offers greater efficiency in commercial vehicle applications

arker Hannifin, a global leader in motion and control technologies, is now able to offer complete E-Steering solutions to the commercial vehicle market. The company says it can work with bus, coach and truck OEMs to develop complete, easy-toinstall pre-wired systems featuring Parker’s Electro-Hydraulic Pump (EHP) technology at their core. Parker’s EHP functions differently to traditional systems that permanently drive a variable displacement pump connected to a power take-off (PTO) situated in the engine compartment. Instead, the EHP comprises a Permanent Magnet electric AC motor (PMAC) coupled directly to a hydraulic pump that is controlled by a high-performance drive – this enables the power used by the vehicle’s steering to be matched to the quantity of energy needed at any given time. Importantly, the system can be positioned close to the steering system at the front of the vehicle. According to a statement from the company, the benefits for customers seeking intelligent control in commercial transportation applications are widespread. “For instance, greater efficiency can be achieved as the pump runs on demand (fixed displacement pump in combination with variable speed). In turn, this helps to generate a saving of 20-30 bar pressure during operation. Additionally, safety is improved thanks to the remov-

neurs who are com- Sibongile Booi, founder of mitted to building a successful future for Second Office themselves and the and first runner people their busi- up of the 2016 Eskom Business ness serves”. Investment Booi said, “I am Competition thrilled that Second Office will receive a nudge and a coach from the programme”. She added that she values contributing to the local economy participates in various business associations, including the Border Kei Chamber of Business, the Business Women Association and the Black Management Forum. Booi was also recently announced as the newly-elected President of the Rotary Club of Beacon Bay for 2016/2017, poised to make her contribution to the Rotary mission to advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through the improvement of health, the support of education, and the alleviation of poverty. Enquiry no: 30

If you’re looking for robust, reliable construction equipment at affordable prices then you need to look no further than SDLG. When it’s time to think about buying a new machine, remember this name: SDLG.

Babcock International Group: SDLG Head Office Tel +27 (0)11 230 7300 Fax +27 (0)11 397 2686 enquiries@babcock.co.za Branches: Bloemfontein +27 (0)51 432 1226 Botswana +267 390 2869 Cape Town +27 (0)21 380 4700 Durban +27 (0)31 700 6009 East London +27 (0)43 703 0400 George +27 (0)44 878 1035 Kimberley +27 (0)53 832 3443 Kuruman +27 (0)53 712 0472 Lichtenburg +27 (0)18 633 6232 Middelburg +27 (0)13 001 1234 Mocambique +258 84 265 2397 Nelspruit +27 (0)13 001 1280 Port Elizabeth +27 (0)41 407 5900 Richards Bay +27 (0)35 751 1180 Rustenburg +27 (0)14 592 6150 Steelpoort +27 (0)13 230 9054 Wolmaransstad +27 (0)18 596 1514 Windhoek +264 061 305 560/3 Zambia Kitwe +260 212 216 200 Lusaka +260 211 127 2926/28 Independent Dealers: Polokwane RGR Services +27 (0)15 297 6711 Swaziland Swazi Trac +268 251 84 555 Tzaneen Swaarvoertuie +27 (0)15 307 5000 Zimbabwe Pelgin Consultancy Services 263 448 677 3/4/5

www.babcock.co.za

January / February 2017

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

Efficient motorised actuator for globe and diaphragm valves

EMÜ has designed a new motorised actuator as a response to increasing requirements in the area of motorised valves, while recognising the current trend in the area of process automation. With pneumatically-operated valves increasingly being replaced with electrical versions,the development of this new actuator has been based on decades of experience in the area of motorized actuators. Gemu already boasts a long-established selection of corresponding products in the areas of linear and quarter turn actuators for globe and diaphragm valves, butterfly valves and ball valves. Designed on the basis of the hollow shaft principle in conjunction with technology that

integrated stroke limiter as well as the respective end positions. The power supply for the eSyDrive is ensured via a 24 V DC connection. Depending on the size, the actuator has an actuating speed of between 2 mm/s and 6 mm/s. A mechanical position indicator and an electrical status and position indicator are integrated as standard. The Gemu eSyDrive also features a manual override as standard. A suitable emergency power supply module is optionally available. Customers who wish to use the actuator as a control actuator can rely on a design with an integrated positioner or Enquiry no: 31 process controller.

Screens to help reduce costs per ton

ar from merely acting as a means of separating and sizing materials, the effective use of screening technologies can contribute to the overall efficiency of a plant and can significantly improve return on investment in term of processing costs. That’s according to Dave Sibley of ELB Screening Technology Solutions, speaking at the announcement of the company’s signing of an exclusive distribution agreement with one of the world’s leading suppliers of screening systems, Haver and Boecker. The agreement adds to ELB’s already comprehensive offering and enables it to provide advanced screening and related systems from Haver and Boecker and subsidiary company, Major Wire. “We established the company in order to

does not use brushes or sensors, the Gemu eSyDrive sets new standards in terms of compact design, reliability and accuracy. The self-locking actuator also offers a high level of reproducibility for positioning and is therefore particularly suitable for use in precise control applications. The Ethernet-based eSy-web interface, in conjunction with an integrated web server, enables the exchange of parametrisation and diagnostics data and the networking of several devices. After starting initialisation, the actuator automatically adjusts itself to the current process valve, enabling the user to carry out commissioning quickly and easily. If necessary, the user can also make adjustments to the

provide specialist services using the latest hightech approaches and products from the world’s best suppliers. With the addition of these new agencies we can bring technology to bear that will help us analyse and provide the right solutions for our customers’ screening requirements,” Sibley said. “While equipment has not changed dramatically for many years, technology has and is enabling us to accurately determine requirements both in terms of equipment and screen types. By applying solutions based on the

Making logistics smart

SSTech offers a new range of Wenglor sensors for roller conveyor systems that offer everything required for modern warehousing and transport technology. According to the company, these “intelligent” sensors, mountable underneath the transport level of raceway conveyors, set new standards in environmental protection. In addition, “the broad range of variants, near field communication (NFC) and smart logistics functions result in an ideal product for logistics 4.0,” a statement from the company said. Available as a reflex sensor with background suppression, retro-reflex sensor or as a logic unit, the new sensors can be supplied with or without accumulation logic with valve (for

pneumatics), or without valve (for motorized rollers). “Equipped with NFC interface, the sensors can be conveniently configured via an Android app or PC. Switching distances and operating modes can even be selected in the de-energised state.” The free Wenglor Sensor Configuration app is available from the Google Play Store. In addition, the sensors are easy to mount in just a few simple steps using the intuitive fast clip system and quick wiring. “With the intelligent accumulation logic func-

results of these analysis and studies we should, in most cases, be able to reduce costs per ton of processing. “This will more than cover the cost premium of using technologically advanced products and improving return on investment.” In addition to analytical systems and services available, the Haver and Boecker/Major Wire product line-up includes vibratory equipment, wear and ceramic linings, as well as a full range of screens. The company’s new pulse vibration analysis technology also allows us to test existing screens and find solutions to optimise processes. Enquiry no: 32

tions and energy saving modes, the current performance potential of logistic systems can be appreciably improved – power consumption at the solenoid valves is reduced by 75% with the help of the integrated EcoMode and additional electrical energy is saved in the switched state as well.” With functions such as automatic roller shutdown, dynamic accumulation zones, intelligent jam monitoring, individual and block forwarding as well as time functions, a variety of logistics processes can easily be implemented and optimised. Claimed benefits include reduced energy consumption, lower noise levels, a decrease in errors, increased throughput rates and up to 60% more capacity for the conEnquiry no: 33 veyor system.

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Cost competitiveness and absolute reliability are the hallmarks of WEG Variable Speeds Drives and WEG electric motors. These state-of-theart products offer functionalities that meet all HVAC requirements. And this is underpinned by Zest WEG Group’s responsiveness when it comes to technical and after sales support. The Zest WEG Group, a subsidiary of leading Brazilian motor and controls manufacturer WEG, started out as a South African company and maintains its strong commitment to contributing to the development of the African region. By leveraging best practice

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engineering and manufacturing capabilities, the group is able to offer a range of standard off-the-shelf products as well as end-to-end energy solutions. An in-depth understanding of the requirements for HVAC applications, access to quality product solutions and years of experience have ensured that the Zest WEG Group service offering is fit-for purpose. From single product installations to individually customised solutions, which are application specific, the latest technology is used to ensure optimum performance and reliability without

compromising on energy efficiency. WEG products are engineered to facilitate a safe and reliable plant environment with operational stability and the highest possible production levels as an objective. Reduced maintenance and ease of serviceability assist in lowering the total cost of ownership for operations. Supporting customers is key and the Zest WEG Group operates a strategically situated network of branches and distributors across the continent. This ensures the highest levels of technical support as well as easy access to product and parts.

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January / February 2017

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

ost and price are two separate factors, and with increased pressure on the purchase price, specifiers of floor grating are purchasing material at the expense of structural integrity and loading capacity. That’s the accusation from Elaine van Rooyen, marketing manager at Andrew Mentis. Elandsfontein-based Andrew Mentis, the largest single producer of floor grating in southern Africa, has been manufacturing Rectagrid RS40 floor grating for more than 40 years. Van Rooyen said its Rectagrid products have long been the benchmark in floor grating in South Africa. “Industry should be concerned, however, that with increasing pressure to cut costs, specifiers are taking the short-sighted approach of opting for sub-standard products. “These may be cheaper in the short term, but do not offer the same benefits in terms of quality and durability. Health and safety is also compromised by the use of inferior products,” Van Rooyen said. Rectagrid floor grating is manufactured using a pressure locking system pioneered by Andrew Mentis. Quality control during the manufacturing process ensures that close tolerances are maintained, and that the round transversal bar fits tightly through the pierced bearer bar. Van Rooyen said this not only guarantees the superior structural integrity of the product, but also eliminates its vulnerability to corrosion, which, in turn, ensures the superior locking characteristics. “In an effort to cut costs even further, specifiers are even reducing the number of bearer bars and round bar transversals on each section of grating. This reduces the loading capacity of the grating, as well as weakening it and, in some cases, even rendering it unsafe,” Van Rooyen warned. “An added problem of such short-sighted cost cutting measures is that the safety implication is only apparent after installation, when it is clear that the compromised floor grating is unable to perform according to the original specifications.” Rectagrid RS40, by contrast, is a highly engineered product that has been tested extensively in the field, said Van Rooyen, adding that the company’s main challenge was to continue to produce world-class products without sacrificing on either materials or Enquiry no: 34 quality.

New technology assembly cells

EW-EURODRIVE Cape Town has invested in new assembly cells for geared motors to speed up production, increase quality and reduce wastage, a development that promises to benefit its Eastern Cape customers too. As part of its ongoing development, the branch also plans a new assembly cell for electronics in the near future. “We have definitely started to do more business on the electronics side, especially in terms of servo motors and mechatronic units, which combine electronics with mechanical gearing,” said Branch Manager Byron Griffiths. He added that the assembly-cell development would boost the Cape Town branch’s flexibility and capability to deliver total solutions for clients. It will also assist in reducing stockholding, as a lot of components are interchangeable, as opposed to having to keep one item in stock in every available size and configuration.

Enquiry no: 36

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s Components (RS), the trading brand of Electrocomponents plc (LSE:ECM), a global distributor for engineers, has updated its Health and Safety Knowledge Hub to include the latest products and innovations that address safety and personnel wellbeing. This includes an extended range of products from 3M. Following its acquisition of the specialist producer of fall arrest equipment, Capital Safety, 3M now offers an extended range of harnesses, lanyards, self-retracting lifelines and engineered systems. Other 3M products include the 3M ProTac III slim headset units, which offer a slimmer cup for less-noisy environments. More products in the expanded offering include the latest ergonomically designed and water- and dust-resistant safety shoes and boots from Honeywell, and Rubbermaid Slim Jim disposal bins, which have been designed to help promote recycling and improve productivity. RS also offers its own range of products under the RS Pro brand. This range of costeffective products includes safety glasses and goggles, bump caps, disposable respirators, spill control and clean-up equipment and a full selection of lockout equipment and kits for site isolation applications.

Cape Town is a significant production hub for SEW-Eurodrive, as it assembles units for other branches, including Nelspruit, Durban, Johannesburg, and Port Elizabeth. In addition, specific sizes and ranges are only assembled in Cape Town, and distributed to other branches when needed. “For example, a smaller location such as Port Elizabeth will rely on us for its production,

from servo motors to geared motors,” Griffiths pointed out. He said the Western Cape market in particular was showing growth in terms of both volumes and turnover. “The market is definitely on the uptick compared to last year. We are doing surprisingly well, despite the prevailing tough market conditions.” Griffiths revealed that the food and beverage industry was very stable in the Western Cape, where the large percentage of exports means that OEMs favour energy-efficient equipment such as SEW- Eurodrive’s IE3-compliant DRN series of asynchronous motors. “One of the main reasons these new motors were launched was to cater specifically for increased export volumes into the US and Europe, where the standard regulations require IE3 compliance. “We are very fortunate in having such a fantastic assembly facility here, ” Griffiths said.

SMC Pneumatics (South Africa) Pty Ltd

Are material specifiers dropping the safety and performance ball?

SMCRaisesTheBar Worldwide leading experts in pneumatics and industrial automation Join the conversation

SMC Pneumatics (South Africa)

SMC Pneumatics – South Africa

www.smcpneumatics.co.za

Enquiry no: 35

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2017/01/23 12:58:29 PM

January / February 2017

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Key global certification for SA telecoms provider

an-African telecom enabler, Seacom, has earned the Carrier Ethernet 2.0 certification for services from the Metro Ethernet Forum (MEF), an industry association that provides a global services framework and the foundation for service innovation in the telecoms industry. The MEF Certification Programme enables service providers to certify that their Carrier Ethernet services comply with the relevant MEF specifications. It assures Seacom wholesale and commercial customers that the operator’s network services conform to MEF’s exacting standards of quality and performance. Seacom was certified for all four MEF service types in November 2016. These include E-Line, E-LAN, E-Tree and E-Access. “Only a handful of carriers in Africa have received this certification, and Seacom is one of the few to have achieved the certification across a full suite of services,” the company said in a statement. Worldwide, more than 200 MEF

certified service products have been deployed by more than 70 service providers using around 500 certified products from 80 equipment manufacturers. Seacom’s Head of Engineering Mark Tinka said, “We are delighted to have received this certificate confirming that our Ethernet capabilities will meet the strictest requirements of the large enterprise clients and our wholesale service provider customers”. “Seacom offers the largest African MPLS backbone and our Ethernet services deliver high-quality connectivity with industry-leading PoP-to-PoP service level agreements.” Seacom’s Ethernet Service provides flexible point-to-point and point-to-multipoint EoMPLS connectivity between major African and International interconnection points. Investment in metro connectivity together with partnerships with leading regional service providers enable Seacom to deliver services directly into customer premises across Africa and the globe. Enquiry no: 37

EC Industrial & Business News

Rental company reaches high with record month

hile many South African companies were relieved to see the back of 2016, Goscor Rental Company (GRC) defied the doom and gloom to notch up their best month ever in November. GRC is a division of Goscor Lift Truck Company (GLTC), part of the Goscor Group of Companies and rents Crown, Doosan and Bendi forklifts and material handling equipment on a short-term basis to a wide range of customers. It also sells refurbished second-hand equipment. “The entry level requirement of a business like ours is excellent product and that we have. All three of these brands are world leaders,” said GM Shaun Morton. “But our success is a result of making the most of these brands through providing a world-class service to match their quality and we

have managed to do this through an exceptional team performance. “We are all very proud to be part of this winning team.” He said the GRC team had taken full advantage of a market where rental has grown substantially over the years as a viable solution to the challenges of large capital equipment ownership. The new equipment market has shrunk by almost 30% over the past two to three years, which means that companies are holding on to machines for longer periods and are generally looking to save money wherever they can. “This has boosted the rental and refurbished sales market considerably and has meant the more creative solutions are required,” said GRC sales manager Tanya Brummer. “One of the secrets to our success is the way in which we handle the

equation of short-term rental versus long-term rental versus refurbished purchase versus new purchase. We take many factors into account and ultimately give the client the solution that best suits their needs,” Brummer said. Darryl Shafto, GLTC MD, says he is delighted with the performance of the GRC team. “Through their efforts they have built a reputation for reliability and value for money and, therefore, they have a very loyal clientele”. GRC which has a fleet of more than 700 machines, caters for the electric, LPG and diesel markets, provides big and small machines and has a team of qualified mechanics for each type of machine as well as highly trained operators and battery experts where required. All of its refurbished and rental machines are engine-inspected Enquiry no: 38 and fully load-tested.

Strapping way to secure header-box enclosures while in transit

and-It heavyduty stainless steel strapping from Banding & ID Solutions Africa is being used by P-pro Construction of Gauteng for a specialist transportation function. A specialist construction and project management company, P-pro uses Band-It strapping to secure header box enclosures while being transported to power stations. The header boxes or cassettes are used to enclose header pipes in the boilers in order to prevent heat loss, and also to act as an insulator so as to maintain the correct temperature of the header pipes, said MD Alwyn Carstens. Banding & ID Solutions Africa

Sales representative Matthew Campbell said that Band-It Grade 304 stainless steel strapping is popular for such industrial applications precisely due to its superior yield and high tensile strength, which results in maximum clamping strength. “Light-duty strap is not suitable here due to the significant weight of the header-box enclosures,” Carstens said. “These enclosures have to be strapped securely. If the incorrect strapping is used, it increases the risk of losing the load while in transit.” Campbell explains that all sizes of Band-It strap feature fully-rounded smooth edges for safety and ease of installation. “A double wrap clamp can

be made for even greater strength, threading the band through the EarLokt buckle twice,” he advised. The Band & Buckle solution from Band-It can be formed easily to suit any diameter. It is available in thicknesses of 0.51 mm and 0.76 mm, and in widths of 6.5 mm, 9.5 mm, 12.7 mm, 15.8 mm and 19.7 mm. Packed in convenient 30 m rolls, it can be applied with a C001, C003 or C075 tool. The solution is also sufficiently flexible in that 50m and 100m coils can be made to order, in accordance with specific customer requirements. “Our relationship with P-pro is another example of a niche application where the Band-It product really come into its own," Campbell said. Enquiry no: 39

Not your conventional forklift

eclift variable reach trucks - available exclusively in South Africa from BLT SA - are designed for swift, efficient and safe handling of heavy loads in diverse industries, including steel and aluminium logistics. “Meclift machines are compatible with a range of specially designed attachments that offer the versatility for one machine to be able to safely handle different materials, with no damage to the goods,” said Charity Gumede, marketing director for BLT SA. “Unlike conventional forklift trucks, these compact variable reach trucks are able to drive into containers or reach inside a container for easy loading and unloading of goods and

equipment. Meclift’s versatile solutions ensure total control over logistics in ports, factories and cargo holds and also increase efficiency and safety during materials handling procedures. Operating costs and handling times are significantly reduced.” Meclift loading boxes, which are designed to lift, carry and lower aluminium bundles, also prevent scratches or bending of goods. These loading boxes handle rod diameters between 152 mm and 254 mm, a 7 000 mm maximum load length and a maximum load weight of 11 300 kg. Meclift has extended is range of accessories for the steel industry to include new C-hooks. These robust C-hooks have an hydraulic 360˚rotation and 64˚ tilting and are compat-

ible with all Meclift machines and coil attachments to enable the efficient transportation and accurate positioning of coils. The C-hook attached to an ML3018RC variable reach truck, can handle steel coils up to 32 metric tons. Coil ram and clamp attachments, with customisable dimensions, enhance the performance, efficiency and safety during the handling of steel Enquiry no: 40 coils.

Maximizing production from sunrise to sunset? ABB’s tailor-made portfolio of products and systems for photovoltaic power plants generates 15 percent more energy than the market average. The portfolio includes a complete range of products and systems designed to harness the sun’s energy, convert it into electricity and transfer it to the grid - efficiently, reliably and safely. It includes high-efficiency solar inverters and optimized control technologies that enable the plant to capture more energy for more hours of the day, from the moment the sun goes up until the moment it goes down. Everyday the world demands more renewable energy – ABB makes it possible. www.abb.com/solar

Certainly. ABB - Eastern Cape100 X 275_Jan 2017.indd 1

ABB South Africa (Pty) Ltd Tel. +27 10 202 5000 E-mail: LP@za.abb.com

2017/01/23 09:56:58 AM

January / February 2017

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

New drives cut machine design costs, boost performance

New gas detector raises the safety bar even higher

SA, a global provider of safety equipment has beefed up its gas detection offering with advanced PID (photo-ionisation detection) in the form of the Altair 5X “We work tirelessly to build smarter, better gas-detection instruments,” said Marketing Manager Ahmed Elzoubi. The company first introduced its XCell sensor technology with its Altair 4X instrument. He said the new 5X, “sets the bar even higher for sensor technology in a six-gas portable instrument for VOC (Voltatile Organic C o m p o u n d ) detection”. Based in Dubai, Elzoubi oversees the oil, gas and petroleum (OGP) market segments for MSA in the Middle East, Africa and India region. Visiting key customers in South Africa recently, Elzoubi said that innovation was critical to MSA’s ongoing success, as it sought to refine its products and introduce the latest technology to its global customer base. “It is important that we engage with our customers continuously in order to keep them up to date with our newest developments. This not only allows us to understand the specific needs of our customers even better, but gives us a broader insight into specific markets and industries.” Elzoubi pointed to MSA’s addition of Bluetooth technology

to its Altair multi-gas sensor range, in order to enhance the communications interface with other equipment and systems. “This is a first for the industry, and allows us to establish a new benchmark for these instruments. It means we set the standards for the entire industry to follow.” Introducing new technology represents a considerable investment on the part of MSA, as well as posing a challenge in evaluating which market segment to focus its R&D efforts on. “For example, the declining oil price has posed a significant challenge for all manufacturers of safety equipment competing in the OGP space.” While about 90% of MSA’s global business is derived from this sector, mining plays a major role in South Africa, which gives the company to focus on head and fall protection as well. “The civil defence and military segments also represent major opportunities for growth in Africa as a whole,” Elzoubi revealed. In terms of Africa specifically, Elzoubi stressed that South Africa was an important gateway to the rest of the continent. “The market here is different in many ways, from standards and approvals to the way that manufacturers can sell to end users. However, there is significant potential, especially if you look at the burgeoning OGP Enquiry no: 41 industry.”

agnet has extended its range of Schneider energy management and automation systems to include Altivar ATV320 variable speed drives (VDSD). The company says this new system, has also been developed to optimise design and engineering costs for original equipment manufacturers and improves a machine’s performance in diverse applications. “Schneider’s recently launched Altivar machine range of variable speed drives - with simple, plug and play commissioning - meets simple and advanced application requirements for three-phase synchronous and asynchronous motors from 0,18 to 15 kW,” said Shalendra Barath, Magnet’s Schneider product specialist. “The Altivar ATV320 drive, which combines safety, reliability and simplic-

ity, is used for building more effective machines, with greater reliability, at optimised costs. These drives provide continuous machine operation, even in harsh environments with elevated ambient temperature levels, dust, electrical interruptions and mechanical disturbances. “Schneider drives also maximise machine operating time because production changes, maintenance, safety diagnostics, network configuration and system integration are accomplished quickly,” Barath said. Altivar ATV320 devices meet various machine throughput requirements, including open loop motor control, with dynamic accuracy for start/ stop applications and torque sensitive operations, even at low speed. Closed loop motor control is offered for applications requiring velocity sensitive operation or precise positioning. This system offers advanced connectivity with automation architecture via all common fieldbuses, even in real time, with fast task cycle times. The Altivar range, which has been designed for easy integration with various machine layouts, reduces total

machine costs during installation and through the life cycle of the machine. The compact form factors reduce the machine footprint and allow efficient space usage, whether the machine is mounted in a frame or installed in an electrical cabinet. Fewer additional devices are needed to manage the machine safely and repeated sequential movements are managed internally within the drive. Printed circuit boards are class 3C3 coated in accordance with IEC 61721-3-3 to protect against corrosion in harsh environments. The drive maintains a thermal state allowing uninterrupted operation with ambient temperatures up to 60 ºC. These variable speed drives have integrated safety features, including a safe stop and speed control, as well as a guard door locking device. Magnet supports the Altivar ATV320 range with a technical advisory and installation service throughout Southern Africa. This system is suitable for applications in materials handling, packaging, textile industry, mechanical actuators and hoisting.

Taking gearbox load testing to the next level

ssuring customers of the quality and reliability of Kwatani’s locally manufactured exciter gearboxes means testing them at full load before they leave the company’s workshop. This is according Kenny Mayhew-Ridgers, the company's GM Engineering. “As the designer and manufacturer of these products we want to be sure there are no issues with the running temperatures, oil cooling and noise emissions. The only way to do that confidently is by applying the load that the machine will be subject to during its lifespan on site,” he said. Kwatani, previously known as Joest Kwatani, has operated in South Africa for more than four decades and is known for its vibrating screens and feeders, drives, controllers, conveyor feeders and dryers. The company also leads the field in terms of the sheer size of its exciters. For this reason, the facilities for testing these large units – located at Kwatani’s Spartan premises near Johannesburg – are similarly above-average in scale. “Our largest exciter can displace 20 tonnes with 10 mm movement – so this needs a strong, heavy frame,” he says. “We designed a full-scale test rig so the gearbox can endure a full load on its bearings, and it must withstand this without generating undue noise or heat,” MayhewRidgers said. To ensure that the vibrations do not carry into the Kwatani’s test building, the rig is placed on a secure sub-frame to dampen the movement and dynamics to the floor. “We also put the rig at an angle, because it is important to test the oil flow in the position in which the unit is going to be

used – to make sure there are no oil leaks. “We have spent many research and development hours on fluid dynamics to simulate the flow of oil inside the exciter gearboxes, leading to some very rewarding solutions.” He said that after almost two years of full-load testing, Kwatani leads the industry in terms of the way it tests exciters. “We build the exciters ourselves – everything except the bearings – and use a highly qualified consultant and specialised foundry to ensure the best quality castings for our exciter housings,” Mayhew-Ridgers said. The other advantage of Kwatani’s facility is that a variable speed drive (VSD) has been connected to specialised monitoring software, allowing experiments to be conducted on the gearbox at various speeds. This checks whether there are any critical or ‘natural’ frequencies created by rotating equipment and records important aspects of operation like the torque generated. “This also makes it possible to become much more accurate when specifying components like drive motors –where we can specify size and capacity in a more scientific way." Enquiry no: 42

Here’s a big reason you can save even more energy. Etanorm is a classic that keeps getting more efficient. It meets the energy efficiency requirements of the ErP Directive for 2015 already today – for three good reasons: optimised hydraulic components for pace-setting efficiency, individual impeller trimming, and ideally matching drives and automation components. Etanorm is available really fast, comes in numerous variations, and provides the unique reliability of a globally identical product. For more information, please visit www.etanorm.com / www.ksbpumps.co.za

Pumps Valves Service ■

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Enquiry no: 43

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

The winners of the new-look SAIW Welding Challenge, Philippus Terblache (left) Youth winner and Houston Isaacs Senior winner

New-look welding challenge off to a scorching start

he new-look SAIW Welding Challenge took place at the head office of the Southern African Institute of Welding (SAIW) in Johannesburg recently. The challenge, which now which comprises the Youth and Senior competitions, attracted more than 40 competitors from around the country. The winner of the SAIW Youth Challenge was Philippus Terblanche while the Senior Welding Challenge winner was Houston Isaacs, a previous winner of the Youth Challenge - then known as the Young Welder of the Year. Isaacs’ latest win brings his total

winnings tally to more than R50 000. “I’m over the moon,” he said. “I will now compete overseas representing my country and I am looking forward to doing well.” Isaacs, who received R15 000 for his win, will represent South Africa at the IIW Arc Cup in Shanghai in June. Terblanche, who also won R15 000 for his efforts, will go, along with the Youth Challenge’s two runners up, to the WorldSkills national competition. The winner of that will represent South Africa at the WorldSkills International Competition in Abu Dhabi from 14-19 October 2017. Enquiry no: 44

Dutch group gains traction in SA food and beverage sector

erder South Africa is gaining traction in the food and beverage industry with the successful introduction of its new Packo range of food-grade pumps. The Dutch-based Verder Group acquired the UK-based Fullwood Packo Group in 2015, with Verder South Africa embarking on an extensive marketing campaign for the food & beverage industry in August this year. Kobus Fourie, Packo pump specialist at Verder South Africa, said that the range has application in 11 niche sectors. These are dairy, meat and fish, textiles, wastewater and potable water, breweries and distilleries, food and beverage, washing and disinfection, surface treatment, vegetables, animal feeds and biogas, hot frying oil, petrochemicals and pharmaceuticals. “At the moment our campaign is focused on breweries and beverages, and we will target additional sectors next year,” Fourie said. Verder Packo pumps are

available in capacities of up to 40 m3/hour, with the latest addition to the range capable of 1 200 m3/ hour. This particular pump weighs an astonishing 1.6 t, with a 250 kW motor. In existence for 230 years, Packo was the first company ever to design a food-grade pump. Its extensive experience has allowed it to eliminate typical problems and issues that smaller companies are only beginning to grapple with now. Some of the innovations introduced by Packo include an electro-polishing process for all internal components. This results in a mirror-like finish that helps to combat bacteria buildup. Another feature is optional heating jackets for materials such as chocolate, creams and fats, which all need to remain liquid, even if the production process is interrupted. Enquiry no: 45

January / February 2017

EC Industrial & Business News

Pneumatics giant’s big plans for 2017

ince opening doors to its 4 312m² Midrand head office in April 2016, SMC Pneumatics has gone from strength to strength. Headed by General Manager, Adrian Buddingh together with the support of SMC Pneumatics United Kingdom and the company’s head office in Japan, the management team put together a local team of more than 60. In addition, select long-standing employees from the United Kingdom have been contracted to South Africa to ensure that the team aligns to international standards in manufacturing and in doing business ‘the SMC way’. “In establishing our local values, we challenged each team member to come up with a proposed value for SMC, these have been put up in

the office and I am proud to say that the team works towards these every day,” said Buddingh. “Much like in 2016, this year will once again see us striving to create an open, engaging and dynamic environment in which we collaborate with our customers and partners to not only deliver on our promises and products, but to constantly innovate, grow, challenge, learn and collaborate, together.” SMC South Africa’s showroom, manned trade counter, warehouse facilities and fully-operational local production facilities are open and ready to welcome visitors at any time during business hours. “Tours with our sales team are encouraged to best understand the history and culture of SMC, meet the team and to understand our

capabilities. It is also an opportunity for us to get to know our customers and how we can solve their unique automation requirements,” said Buddingh. Turning to the company’s business strategy for 2017, he said, “Much like last year, we continue to entrench the SMC brand in the local market whilst promoting the quality associated with Japanese design”. “We will continue to connect and build on relationships by truly listening to and meeting our customer’s needs. SMC describes itself as customer centric, and this is what our team is continuously working on,” “As we continue to push the envelope and create change in the industry, so keep watching this space.” Buddingh said.

Truck maker tops customer satisfaction stakes

ino South Africa, driven by its global Hino Total Support programme, has retained top place in the combined Scott Byers Competitive Customer Satisfaction Monitor for the eighth successive quarter in the period October December 2016. This benchmark survey has been conducted quarterly since 1986 by Scott Byers, which has more than 33 500 trucks and fleet operators on its database, which is updated continually. Besides being the top-rated truck brand in the combined section Hino came out top in the Service and Parts categories and was runner-up in the Sales category for the fourth quarter of 2016. All Hino’s scores - overall and

category - were over 95%. The various scores were: Overall 96.86%, Sales 96.41%, Service 96.92% and Parts 95.85%. Hino is the only one of the 18 truck brands surveyed to have all its scores over 95%. The respective industry averages in the four categories were: Overall - 90.29%, Sales - 92.39%, Service - 90.34% and Parts - 88.15%. “We at Hino South Africa are very proud of our achievements in this detailed survey and are delighted that we were still able to improve on our overall score,” said Ernie Trautmann (pictured), the Vice President of Hino SA. “We have made significant progress in improving our customer sat-

isfaction ratings in recent years and our customers are enjoying the benefits. “A lot of the credit for our strong performance in this quarterly monitor must go to the local implementation of Hino’s global Total Support programme. This initiative is rooted in building and maintain strong relationships with mutual trust, between Hino Motors Limited, Hino South Africa, Hino dealer network and suppliers to ensure they all become partners with their customers. “Effective and ongoing communication with our dealers and customers are the keys to success with this worldwide programme,” Trautmann Enquiry no: 46 said.

Control cables with numbered cores

quipment and machinery installations using the latest cabling technologies can contribute significantly to the ease of installation and overall success of a project. That’s according to leading cable manufacturer, Helukabel. The company says a good example of this is its JZ500 flexible control cable, which is designed to be supersupple, yet strong enough to be used in the toughest industrial conditions where its oil and chemical resistance makes it ideal for toolroom controls, conveyor applications, production lines, air condition and steel production among others. Another unique feature is its easyto-read core identification to DIN VDE 0293 that has black cores with continuous white numbering (also available in other colours on request) for ease of installation, particularly where long runs are required or individual installers are working at

different ends. The numbering, colours and other special requirements can also be ordered to suit different applications. According to Hardus van Dyk of Helukabel, the cables are designed for flexible use for applications requiring medium mechanical stresses with free movement - without tensile stress or forced movements and can be used in either dry, moist or wet rooms. Selected PVC-compounds guarantee a good flexibility as well as an economic and fast installation. Technical specifications Helukabel JZ500 is a special-PVC control cable adapted to DIN VDE 0285-525-2-51/DIN EN 50525-2-51 • Temperature range flexing is -15°C to +80°C while fixed installation is -40°C to +80°C • Nominal voltage U˳/U 300/500 V • Test voltage 4000 V

• Breakdown voltage min 8000 V • Insulation resistance min. 20 MOhm x km • Class 5, fine wire DIN VDE 0295, BS6360, IEC60228 • Minimum bending radius is flexing 7,5x cable Ø while fixed installation is 4x cable Ø • Radiation resistance is up to 80x10cJ/kg (up to 80 Mrad) • Oil/ Chemical Resistance • Self-extinguishing and flame retardant DIN VDE 0482-332-1-2, DIN EN 60332-1-2, IEC60332-1 • Conditional drag chain compatible • Conditional suitable for torsion • Meter marked • Ease of strip-ability. The materials used in manufacture are cadmium-free and contain no silicone and are free from substances harmful to the wetting properties of lacquers. The cable also conforms will relevant national and internaEnquiry no: 47 tional standards.

Lifting Solutions That Work. TorreLifting_657_adv_ECIBN_275x100.indd 1

2016/05/20 2:09 PM

January / February 2017

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

Forklift offering clicks with pharmacy retailer

OSCOR Lift Truck Company (GLTC), the fastest-growing materials handling equipment (MEH) supplier in the country, has succeeded in getting an order for

equipment from leading pharmacy and health and beauty retailer Clicks’ Cape division. “We are delighted about this,” said Grant Laight GLTC regional sales manager in

the Western Cape. “Clicks is obviously an extremely professional and important player in the warehouse equipment space and this is an important moment for us. We will endeavour to show Clicks, as we have done with so many other major retailers, that our product and our service is as good as it gets.” Clicks’ initial order was for five machines – four X Crown ESR 5260 2-ton reach trucks with 11.5m masts and a Crown SCT 6040 1.8ton counterbalanced forklift. The Crown ESR 5260 is well-known for its speed, power and height reach. Its three key features are the unique Optimised Cornering Speed (OCS) system, a top speed of 14 km/h and an extended lift height of 13 metres. OCS ensures that the ESR always stays within safe limits whilst travelling. The system automatically monitors the truck’s steering angle and handling as it travels into or out of a turn, adjusting the vehicle’s speed as required. The Crown SCT 6040 is part of the newly released Crown SC 6000 series, which offers a combination of stability, advanced technology and task-focused ergonomics. The

new lift trucks are capable of performing a wide variety of material-handling tasks in both indoor and outdoor conditions. “When working on ramps in particular, the forklift can be easily and safely manoeuvred, thanks to the ramp hold function and automatic speed control,” said Laight. All five machines come with double batteries as they will be required to operate at least 300 Enquiry no: 48 hours per month.

A-Vert power cuts the eco-friendly way

ERT Energy Southern Africa offers solutions for traditional petrol and diesel power generation and also has a range of products for renewable energy sources, such as hydro, wind, natural gas and solar. “This range of premium branded products, which ensures reliable electric power generation (EPG) solutions, is enhanced by a technical advisory and support service, to ensure there is no interruption in power supply, as a result of load shedding or mains failure,” said Vert Energy’s managing director, Grant Robertson. “The company’s focus on renewable energy sources to produce ‘green’ energy as a reliable source of electricity, encompasses sustainable solutions for wind power, hydroelectricity, photovoltaic (solar) and natural gas energy production. “Vert Energy’s extensive range of power generation components for the production of wind power caters primarily to domestic and light commercial applications using the NSM range of low voltage permanent magnet generators (PMG), to full scale power plant production for independent power producers and utilities, incorporating low, medium and high voltage Leroy Somer alternators and DEIF generator controls for wind applications.” Leroy Somer alternators - which are available exclusively throughout Sub Saharan Africa from Vert Energy - are known in the wind power generation sector for high electrical efficiency, reliability and strict compliance with environmental constraints. (Leroy-Somer is

ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 certified). Leroy-Somer has developed a water-cooled system, especially for wind turbine applications. Water cooling, which focuses on the active parts of the generator, guarantees heat control and extends the service life of the generator. Leroy-Somer has also developed a reinforced insulation system, which enhances the generator’s reliability in demanding wind turbine environments that are often subjected to salt and dust. LS alternators, with power outputs between 600 kW and 5 MW, withstand operation in extreme ambient temperatures and cope efficiently with highly variable load cycles and high over voltage due to converters. Other features include the compact design, efficient cooling and low noise levels.

Exclusive Vert Energy has also been appointed exclusive distributors in sub-Saharan Africa for the sales and support of DEIF generator control solutions for decentralised power production in land based power production. DEIF has a dedicated business division, with skilled engineers who develop customised control solutions to handle new projects, as

well as the retrofitment of new components into older turbine applications. Robust DEIF components, designed for all sizes and types of turbines, incorporate the latest technology for efficient power and speed control, thus minimising structural loads and optimising energy production over the lifetime of the turbine DEIF wind turbine controllers, which are supplied with the customised ‘Wind Turbine Control Strategy’ pre-installed, withstand all environmental conditions, including temperature range, storm and lightning conditions, vibrations and shock. This control concept is a cost efficient and easy to implement all-in-one solution, which integrates functionalities such as synchronisation, regulation, protection, power management, auxiliary management and circuit management. Features like the guided controller configuration at start-up, light-weight TCP/IP based remote HMI and service-friendly parameter handling, are designed to make wind turbine commissioning, operation and service easier.

Enquiry no: 49

EASTERN CAPE Enquiry INDUSTRIAL & BUSINESS NEWS

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For more information on product or service news please circle the number relevant to the article then return fax this coupon to enquiries at (031) 266 7514 / 086 656 7452 or email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za Name: _______________________________________________ Surname: ____________________________________________ Company: ____________________________________________ Designation: __________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________ _________________________________ Postal Code:________ Tel:________________________Fax:_______________________ Email: ________________________________________________ Nature of business: _____________________________________

Issue 77 -January / February 2017 1

LEADING THE WAY, SETTING THE STANDARD! First in forklift industry to achieve ISO certification INSIST ON QUALITY

Because we really do mean business when it comes to ensuring we give our customers quality equipment and quality service. Goscor Lift Truck Company continues to set quality standards in the Southern African forklift and warehouse material handling equipment industries, recently becoming the first forklift company in SA to achieve ISO 9001:2008 accreditation. Just another clear indication of how seriously Goscor takes servicing its customers and developing their team!

So, for a world-class PRODUCT supported by a world-class SERVICE ensuring the LOWEST TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP over the lifetime of your equipment and a better bottom line, call the quality leaders now!

0861 GOSCOR (467 267) lifttrucks@goscor.co.za www.goscorlifttrucks.co.za

January / February 2017

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Global recognition for trainee at PE carmaker T he Volkswagen Group presented its annual “Best Trainee Awards 2016” to young top achievers from all over the world at Group headquarters in Wolfsburg recently. The awards went to 45 trainees from 19 countries. The 45 winners, made up of nine young women and 36 young men showed high levels of competence and proficiency in their respective fields during their training programs. The awards were presented by the Chairman of the Board of Management of Volkswagen AG, Matthias Müller, the Member of the Board of Management responsible for Human Resources, Organization and IT, Dr. Karlheinz Blessing and the President of the Global Group Works Council, Bernd Osterloh. “The automotive industry is more exciting for young people than ever before,” said Müller.

“Similar to the entire industry, our company is faced with major changes such as autonomous driving, e-mobility, innovative mobility concepts, digitalisation and connectivity. This means that we must update our knowledge and skills at an increasingly rapid pace.” Müller congratulated the award winners and added: “I am proud of you. Please remain inquisitive and open to new developments and discover your opportunities in the changes that will take place.” The 2016 South African recipient of the “Best Trainee Award” was Cuan George. The 25 year-old George joined Volkswagen Group South Africa as a Graduate Trainee in 2015. He currently works as a commodities buyer in the purchasing department. “I feel honoured to be one of the 45 trainees in the Volkswagen Group to be presented

EC Industrial & Business News

SA standards body adopts IEC 61511 with the 2016 Best Trainee award. I am very grateful to Volkswagen South Africa for giving me the opportunity to be part of the Graduate Trainee Programme as well as all the people in the company that have influenced my career development thus far,” said George. Thomas Schaefer, Chairman and Managing Director: Volkswagen Group South Africa said, “Our Volkswagen Graduate Trainee programme has helped us to groom and nurture our young talent. The award bestowed to Cuan has confirmed that VWSA is doing the right things to develop its young crop of talented employees. We are very proud of Cuan’s Enquiry no: 50 achievement”.

PE school clean-ups up in recycling competition

abega Primary School in Port Elizabeth has once again proven their mettle as a group of learners committed to sustainability and cleaning up their environment, by emerging victorious in Plastics SA’s annual Clean-Up and Recycle Competition. According to Jacques Lightfoot, Sustainability Manager at Plastics SA, the aim of this yearly competition is to encourage, schools, organisations and the public to involve their friends, family and communities in a clean-up or recycling activity. “We required the entrants to supply us with

a short report and photographs of their initiatives as part of our Clean-Up and Recycle SA Week activities,” Lightfoot said. This event was sponsored by Plastics SA’s Sustainability Council, Pioneer Plastics and Tufflex. Prozes included cash, a six-seater picnic table and a three-seater bench made from recycled plastics as well as a four-in-one recycling station. Entries for this year’s competition came from schools around South Africa. “We judged the entries based on how many participants were involved in their respective projects and whether they managed to involve their community. “Kabega Primary was a clear winner and stood out for us because of the amount of recycling and other environmental and sustainability work it does. It is an amazing school that is clearly dedicated to making a difference

in their environment as they organized cleanups in Baakens River Valley, Willows and Seaview,” Lightfoot said. The school received as its prize an award certificate and a bench made of recycled plastic which was placed in the Grade 1 area of the school, as a reminder of the school’s green emphasis. Vaalpark Primary came second in the Primary School Category, and Louise Van Tonder was named the winner in the Organisation Category. “We were once again unbelievably impressed with how industrious, creative and motivated the young people can be when it comes to bringing about real and lasting change in their environments. We wish to extend our congratulations and compliments to every entrant on their exceptional effort and look forward to next year’s entries,” Lightfoot said. Enquiry no: 51

Data Destruction - more than just deleting files

ata end-of-life has now become a huge challenge for most companies, especially with uncontrolled data growth that has resulted in new corporate policies for data storage and retention. This is largely as a result of legislation and regulations such as the Protection of Personal Information Act (PoPI). It is often assumed that once data has been marked for disposal, it no longer requires much attention. However, it is essential for data security and the protection of personal, proprietary and confidential information that data is permanently destroyed, deleted or erased from devices. Xperien is one of the companies offering the ability to professionally erase data on retired IT assets in compliance with the PoPI Act. It offers safe and secure data destruction services and all its data destruction methods are accompanied by certificates that will be required for an audit trail. “Our technicians are able to perform onsite

destruction of hard drives and devices using physical destruction. Our mobile shredders are able to handle 300 hard drives or cell phones daily,” said Xperien senior business development manager Bridgette Vermaak. Physical shredding of the hard disk drive is done by crushing and mangling it into tiny 25mm pieces. This eliminates the data and renders the hard disk drive unusable. She said this is also the most secure method and chosen by clients that wish to spare no expense in securing their proprietary data. “For offsite hard drive destruction we use degaussing to destroy large quantities of hard drives and devices. This method offers high security, speed and cost effectiveness.”

To recover value from hard drives and devices with SSD data storage, mainly cell phones and USB sticks, Xperien uses software erasure which eliminates data without physically destroying the asset’s value. It also destroys all types of data tape media, mobile phones, libraries and CD’s physically by shredding them into tiny pieces. “We provide secure lockable strongboxes that can be used to collect hard drives, mobile phones and other devices prior to our arrival onsite. These can be used for a destruction or a collection for offsite destruction,” said Vermaak. Degaussing is a process that uses a magnetic charge to eliminate data and it also destroys other components of the hard disk drive – ensuring double protection. Degaussed drives can then be recycled or destroyed.

Enquiry no: 52

he South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) has officially adopted IEC 61511 Functional safety – safety instrumented systems for the process industry sector (as SANS 61511). This further entrenches IEC Functional Safety Standards as best engineering practices in South Africa for the application of Safety Instrumented Systems in hazardous processes, and is a big step for the determination of required safety integrity levels in such processes. This now becomes the applicable standard for protection instrumented systems across such process industries as petrochemical refining and storage; biofuels; chemical; pharmaceutical; power generation; pulp and paper; and bulk fuels storage. For product certification company Exida South Africa, this marks the formalising of a standard that has underpinned its core business focus since its inception in 2004. The company sits on the SABS mirror committee at which the standard was adopted. “Fundamentally this standard is about defining safety targets of a plant through risk analysis, and then designing Safety Instrumented Functions to meet those targets,” said Owen Tavener-Smith, Managing Director, Exida South Africa. If the initial risk analysis is poorly executed, incorrect safety targets are defined, which ultimately results in a flawed, inherently unsafe plant design and major cost wastage. “Risk analysis needed to determine safety targets is a complex specialisation and requires a lot of skill, but the consequences of getting it wrong can be catastrophic. “Our last three projects all entailed correcting dangerously inaccurate process safety targets that were derived from poor-quality risk analyses,” Tavener-Smith said. One such example was on a new Combined Cycle Gas Turbine power plant. “The main engineering contractor on the project quickly realised that the safety targets (Safety Integrity Levels) they were provided were totally implausible; in some cases assigned to incorrect equipment and in other cases being unrealistically high. When requested to re-evaluate the risk analysis, Exida found that the methodology used was being incorrectly applied,” a statement from the company said. This is why, according to Exida, the adoption of IEC 61511 is a landmark moment for South Africa’s process industries, as it will compel companies to implement optimum levels of functional safety systems in their process designs. “Our message is basically: don’t cut corners in functional safety; it can have catastrophic and extremely costly consequences. By getting it right first time, companies can greatly optimise their safety, efficiency and profitabilEnquiry no: 53 ity,” Tavener-Smith said.