EC Industrial & Business News - Issue 59 by The Media & Events Company

EASTERN CAPE INDUSTRIAL & BUSINESS NEWS

YOUR LINK TO INDUSTRY THROUGHOUT THE EASTERN CAPE

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Big EC presence expected at SAAW

Fibre optic cable winner - page 3

Heating, Cooling & Ventilation - page 7

T Automation & Robotics - page 12 Engineering & Allied Supplies page 13

Industrial Property - page 14

Company & Product News page 15

Buying Dept

he Eastern Cape’s automotive sector, which accounts for around 50% of the country’s vehicle production and a lion’s share of its automotive exports, will be powerfully represented at Africa’s premier trade show for manufacturers in October. The 4th edition of South African Automotive Week (SAAW), hosted every two years with the support of industry and the South African government, will take place from October 13-17 at Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg. South African Automotive Week Project Director, Andrew Binning said The Eastern Cape Province through its development agency, the Eastern Cape Development Corporation had reserved an exhibition pavilion to

showcase the region’s capability and investment proposition. The pavilion would include the Coega and East London IDZs, business chambers, municipalities and support agencies while Eastern Cape trade promotion officials would actively participate in match making meetings, conferences, workshops and networking occasions. “The Eastern Cape Province is a founding organisation of South African Automotive Week and continues to see the value of the Week as a premium trade promotion tool,’’ Binning said. “The value of investments like FAW into an economy and individual trade agreements with international buyers are what The Week aims to foster,’’ Binning said.

The previous three editions of the trade platform were hosted in the auto hub of the Eastern Cape, home of VWSA, Mercedes Benz, GMSA, Ford’s engine plant and the still under construction FAW factory. Binning said the move to South Africa’s other major auto hub, Gauteng, was forced by exponential growth. “SAAW doubled in size last time around and we anticipate similar expansion for the October edition, which means logistically there is no venue in the region suitable to host it to world class standards.’’ SAAW was voted South Africa’s Best Exhibition linked to a conference by the Exhibition and Events Association of Southern Africa in 2012. The Kwazulu/Natal and Gauteng Automotive Hubs, spearheaded by 2014 host partner the AIDC will also host pavilions alongside several international country pavilions, a specific hub for Electric vehicles and 300 individual organisations. Binning said a focus of the initiative next year, which will include the tradeshow, conferences, technical workshops networking, match-making and site tours, was swelling the participation of international delegations. The South African government would cover the travel costs of eligible delegates to visit the initiative and “the industry and its associations are rolling out the red carpet to woo prospective investors and buyers.”

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“While South Africa produced around 1% of global vehicle output, it exported components across the world and was increasingly being viewed as an investment location for companies racing to reach fresh markets.” 16 of the world’s 30 fastest growing economies are African and while the growth is off a small base, the figures must be alluring to global manufacturers looking for new growth markets. Africa, in particular had been a major success story for the continent’s southern most country in 2012, and is expected to be an increasingly growing percentage of South Africa’s vehicle exports. “South Africa’s vehicle exports to Africa (now ranked the 2nd fastest growing economy) looks set to position it as a gateway for the world to African markets,’’ Binning added. According to KPMG Africa Automotive leader Gavin Maile, South Africa exported 24 281 vehicles to Algeria in 2012, followed by Nigeria as second most popular export destination, at 14 874 units – this up from 7 151 units in 2010. Ghana exports grew from 2 451 units in 2010, to 5 062 units in 2012, with Angola importing 7 783 vehicles from South Africa in 2012, up from 934 in 2010. “These countries all have high gross domestic product growths,” says Maile. “Africa is a real solution for South Africa’s vehicle exports.” Binning said South African Automotive Week was a “critical” part of every auto and related roleplayer’s market development and sales process, whether to supply locally or internationally or connect with the sector’s players. For information on South African Automotive Week see www.saaw. co.za or mail sales@saaw.co.za Enquiry no: 1

Local wind farm connects to power grid

effreys Bay Wind Farm is celebrating the announcement that 10 of the project’s wind turbines have now commenced supplying power to Eskom. “Our project substation has been energised, which means that we are now connected to the Eskom grid,” said Mark Pickering, General Manager of Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm. “This marks the first step towards supplying enough clean, renewable electricity to power more than 114 000

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South African homes and avoid over 420 000 tonnes of carbon emissions each year.” Over 65% of the project’s 60 wind turbines have already been erected. December saw the company also achieved the ‘1 Million hours without lost-time-incident’ safety milestone. This achievement is especially important, considering that the workforce had no experience in this sector before their first induction a few months ago. It is also

remarkable given the sheer scale of the project with multiple activities taking place onsite. Over 70% of the workforces come from the local communities and are directly benefiting from gaining skills. The Energisation process included stringent Eskom and South African Health and Safety standards. The substation is divided into two parts, one of which Eskom is responsible for commissioning. Enquiry no: 2

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January / February 2014

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R20m credit facility for BEE contractors

tandard Bank has joined forces with Massbuild to provide a R20 million credit facility for select BEE building contractors, aimed at enabling the contractors to establish sustainable businesses and improve their ability to deliver as preferred suppliers to government. The credit facility is an initial pilot that will see Massbuild supply building materials on credit to 10 pre-selected BEE contractors providing building services to government for community upliftment projects ranging from low-cost housing to libraries and hospitals. Massbuild operates three well-known brands in South Africa, namely Builders Warehouse, Builders Express, and Builders Trade Depot. Standard Bank’s portion of the funding will go toward meeting the working capital requirements of the contractors, who generally are not able to obtain funding for these types of projects. “Our partnership with Massbuild aims to

promote sustainability among small business owners in the construction industry,” says Simone Cooper (pictured), Head of Franchising and Enterprise Development at Standard Bank. “We want to create an environment that supports emerging building contractors and their continued ability to supply critical services to government. “ An important component of the initiative will be the technical and operational assistance provided to the contractors by Tusk Construction Support Services. The contractors will get practical support in delivering on their contracts with government, encompassing basic cash flow management, project costing, supply chain management, and the provision of on-site project managers. Standard Bank and Massbuild are adopting this new approach to enterprise development, which absorbs billions of rands in corporate

budgets every year, to drive the longrun sustainability of more small businesses in South Africa. A comprehensive enterprise development solution that encompasses funding, supply chains and business support is also a key component of promoting Black Economic Empowerment. Standard Bank and Massbuild are likely to expand the total size of the credit facility and the number of participating contractors, once they have evaluated the success of the initial pilot. Apart from the primary goal of ensuring the viability of emerging building contractors, who typically purchase 65% of their building supplies on credit, Standard Bank and Massbuild also hope to make a positive contribution to job creation and entrepreneurship. “Massbuild recognises the need to implement an enterprise development solution that links financing with preferential procurement

and support programmes to promote the long term commercial well-being of small businesses,” says Andrew Latimer, Head of Financial Services at Massbuild. “The ultimate success of this initiative will be in the number of small businesses we are able to graduate to sustainable, profitable entities in the long-run.” “What is commendable about this partnership is that Standard Bank and Massbuild have recognised the need to appoint a professional support service provider like Tusk to help equip emerging building contractors with the fundamental business acumen they will need to operate their businesses on a sustainable basis,” says Pieter de Villiers, Director of Corporate Services at Tusk Construction Support Services. “You can’t just throw money at small enterprise development. You also have nurture businesses and more importantly, you have to teach emerging entrepreneurs how to help Enquiry no: 3 themselves.”

R300 million for social infrastructure programme

he Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC) announced in late 2013 that R300 million had been allocated by the Eastern Cape government during the current financial year to enhance the roll out of the provincial social infrastructure programme. This amount is expected to rise to R2 billion over the next five years. The programme will focus on the provision of running water, electricity, sanitation, ablution facilities, including replacement of mud-schools as well as the improvement of access to social infrastructure facilities within the district municipal areas. It also includes the refurbishment of hospitals among others. “The R300 million is allocated for the current financial year for social infrastructure projects in the OR Tambo, Joe Gqabi and Alfred Nzo district municipalities and the eastern parts of the Amathole district in particular. These areas have the most acute infrastructure backlogs in the province. An additional amount has been set aside to build capacity within ECDC in critical areas such as civil engineering, project management, quantity surveying, project finance, monitoring and evaluation, supply chain management as well as procurement. The set-up funds will also go toward further strengthening internal processes, financial controls and systems. ECDC will also leverage on available internal expertise as it rolls out this critical social infrastructure programme. In rolling out this programme ECDC will work with contractors and employ people within these affected communities. This programme is about job creation, skills development and improving quality of life in such Enquiry no: 4 communities.

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Any news items, press releases, articles and photographs relating to business and industry in Eastern Cape Industrial & Business News are welcome. All contributions will be considered for publication. Disclaimer: The editor and management of Eastern Cape Industrial & Business News make every effort to ensure the accuracy of the contents of this publication. However, no warranty is made and no responsibility will be borne by the editor or management of consequences of any actions based on information published. The views and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the editor and/or management.

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January / February 2014

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Fibre optic cable winner

he South African Institution of Civil Engineering (SAICE) has recognised an ambitious project undertaken by FibreCo Telecommunications to construct 1 000 km of fibre optic infrastructure in just 14 months. The successfully completed project was aptly awarded the Project Management and Construction award in the SAICE’s 2013 annual awards. Conceptualised in 2009 to facilitate affordable and reliable highspeed internet access, FibreCo’s network will ultimately consist of 12 000 km and will be South Africa’s largest open-access long distance fibre optic network. The success of the 1 000 km first phase, from Johannesburg to Bloemfontein along the N1 national road and from Bloemfontein to East London along the N6 national road, was due to detailed planning and resourcing as well as an inclusive problem solving approach from the implementing team. Arif Hussain, CEO of FibreCo Telecommunications, explains: “Although our objective was to unlock a major bottleneck to delivering more affordable and high-speed internet services around the country, FibreCo

rindrod Limited, the integrated Freight and Logistics business, recently announced that its subsidiary Grindrod Freight Services (GFS) has teamed up with the Pembani Remgro Infrastructure Fund (PRIF) to form a leasing joint venture, providing innovative and cost-effective leasing solutions to the African rail industry. The new company, called GPR Leasing Africa Limited (GPR Leasing) will be based in Mauritius and will be 55% owned by GFS and 45% by PRIF. Said Dave Rennie, CEO of GFS: “The joint venture company will

recognised that the knowledge base for a vast majority of this transmission infrastructure development plan belonged in the civil engineering rather than the telecommunications industry, and specifically with engineers who specialised in ‘linear infrastructure projects’. “We worked closely with UWP Consulting right from the inception stage of our project and ultimately developed a strategic relationship that became the cornerstone on which this project was planned, contracted, managed and finally delivered within everybody’s expectations,” says Hussain. From the outset it was clear that an “out of the box” approach would be required. FibreCo appointed UWP as the ‘owners engineer’ and SRK as the environmental and water licensing specialist. The single biggest challenge was the geographic spread of the works over several provinces, through numerous local authorities, and the need to engage with and obtain approvals from various government departments, provincial and local authorities, service providers and infrastructure owners. The time lines required to obtain these approvals necessitated com-

mencing this process long before a contractor was appointed. In total 937 water crossings were identified which resulted in 703 general authorisations and 234 water use licences issued by the Department of Water Affairs, a process that took over 18 months. Wayleave applications were sent to more than 150 authorities and over 2 500 drawings were produced for submission. A detailed geotechnical study was undertaken by a team of six specialist firms, resulting in 80% to 85% accuracy of the quantity estimates included in the tender process. Construction commenced in February 2012 and a proactive, solutions-based relationship soon developed between UWP and the contractor, ZTE Corporation. “FibreCo was an active member of the implementation team, which meant that quick and decisive decision making was a trademark of the project,” says UWP’s Louis Uys. UWP Consulting in association with MCORP, SiVEST and Nemai, ran a full time project management office in Johannesburg and weekly problem solving and decision making sessions were held with the contractor’s management team. All possible risks were identified up front and

holding points were checked and signed off by the contractor and UWP. More than 1,1 million quality assurance forms were completed and signed during the course of construction. The civil works were substantially completed within time and budget, while there was a slight overrun in the testing and commissioning of the transmission equipment. The project is considered a success and landmark for fibre optic projects in southern Africa. Phases 2 and 3 are expected to get under way Enquiry no: 5 this year.

New rail leasing entity established for Africa be instrumental in providing funding options for customers looking to buy or operate wagons and locomotives manufactured or refurbished by Grindrod, as well as other OEM’s.” GPR Leasing has already secured orders for 31 locomotives. “Grindrod locomotives are 30% to 50% cheaper upfront than other diesel-electric locomotives in the market. The proven track record of the locomotives and their exceptional performance mean that funding institutions are

keen to finance them,” said Rennie. “In addition to this, Grindrod’s track record of successfully maintaining our locomotives in Africa’s most challenging environments, makes our offering robust.” Rail customers can access operating lease solutions through GPR Leasing for main-line locomotives, shunting locomotives and wagons – all for the freight market. Rolling stock leasing is a cost effective option and opens doors to new

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mitigation strategies agreed. The only strategy that would result in completion within the tight deadline was to work simultaneously along the entire site with as many working fronts as possible. At the peak of construction more than 1 700 workers were employed in over 40 working fronts. Over the contract, 156 039 man days were generated and 1 248 310 hours were worked by local labour. On average 589 local labourers were on site each day. A rigorous quality assurance plan was implemented on site. All the

2013/06/25 4:27 PM

opportunities throughout Africa for customers looking to keep debt off their balance sheets. Herc van Wyk, CEO of PRIF, said: “We have been able to leverage the strong relationships of the stakeholders to access competitive funding. This translates to competitive lease rates for competitively priced locomotives. It’s an exciting proposition. This transaction represents an integral part of PRIF’s strategy to be the infrastructure fund of choice for private companies look-

ing for a partner with whom to invest in opportunities that have arisen as a result of Africa’s fast economic growth” Grindrod Rail has a presence in several African countries through its joint ventures and investments. Rand Merchant Bank has been appointed as the mandated lead arranger and funder of the debt package in support of GPR Leasing’s activities. Enquiry no: 6

January / February 2014

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EC Industrial & Business News

Shale gas exploration for E Cape T he Eastern Cape Department of Economic Development, Environmental Affairs and Tourism has launched the first phase of shale gas exploration across a wide swath of the province covering four district municipalities. In addition to Cacadu into which sections of the Little Karoo fall, the department is also looking at shale gas potential in Amathole, Joe Gqabi and Chris Hani district municipalities. The Chris Hani DM includes the towns of Cradock and Queenstown and reaches close to Graaff-Reinet in the West; the Joe Gqabi DM is in the North East of the province bordering on the Free State and includes the towns of Aliwal North and Burgersdorp. Amathole essentially takes in the rural areas around Buffalo City. The Department said in a statement late last year, that in collaboration with the Nelson

Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU), it was seeking to invest in a cutting edge scientific research capability that would provide scientific data on various study areas of shale gas. The initial phase of the project involves the creation of a forensic base-line for shallow ground water reservoirs in the Eastern Cape ahead of shale gas exploitation. This will be achieved through a ground-water monitoring program with community-based participation to stimulate capacity building and entrepreneurship. The project has been named FLOW2 (Field Level Operation Water Watch). The department said the aim of the first phase would be, amongst others, to gain a better understanding of shale gas and to conduct a forensic analysis of water and gas fracking in the Karoo in order to determine whether it was safe, cost-effective and beneficial.

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The next phase would be to then monitor this against the natural base-line and conduct an assessment of the technical skills needed by the province to maximise the benefits. The initial study period will last two years and cost R16 million of which R7.3 million will be capital expenditure. The funds were provided in the Adjustment Budget tabled in the Eastern Cape Legislature last year. The project will produce scientific data that will be fundamental for the work on shale gas exploration and will also be used to train artisans and scientists. According to the Econometrix research it is estimated that developing just one 10th of South Africa's estimated shale gas resources could boost the economy by R200bn a year and create 700 000 jobs.

during which the service fee is paid. The service fee is deemed to be paid on the earlier of the border service fees. According to dates either when it is paid, or the new law, a withholding tax becomes due and payable. of 15% must be levied on the A foreign person will be exempt amount of any service fee that from the tax if: is paid by any person to or • He is a natural person for the benefit of any foreign who is physically present person to the extent that in South Africa for a perithe amount is regarded as od exceeding 183 days in having been received by aggregate during the 12 or accrued to the foreign month period preceding the person from a source within date on which the service South Africa. fee is paid; A foreign person is any • The service in respect person who is not a resident. of which the service fee is paid Service fees would be regarded is effectively connected with a as earned from a South African permanent establishment of source if the services in respect that person in South Africa; of which they are earned are • The service fee constitutes rendered in South Africa. This remuneration paid by an fee includes any amount that is employer to an employee. received or accrued in respect of Persons liable to withhold the technical, managerial, and con- tax can be relieved of such obligasultancy services. It does not, tion only if they receive a declarahowever, include services which tion that, either the foreign person are incidental to the imparting of is exempt from the tax, or is any scientific, technical, industrial, subject to relief as a result of the or commercial knowledge or ren- application of a double taxation dering any service in connection agreement. therewith. The withholding tax will come The withholding tax is a final into effect and apply to service tax where the person making pay- fees that are paid or become due ment to the foreign person with- and payable on or after 1 January holds 15% of the gross service 2016. This article was written by Graeme fees. The person withholding the Palmer, a Director in the Commercial tax must submit a return and pay Department of Garlicke & Bousfield Inc the tax to SARS by the last day Enquiry no: 8 of the month following the month

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bay view Kevin Hustler

he South African Chamber of Commerce and Industry recently released its outlook for the year ahead. To business owners, 2014’s predicted challenges are going to sound awfully and frustratingly familiar: The rising cost of doing business amidst failing support and infrastructure; difficulty in complying with business regulations and trouble gaining access to finance; labour unrest, instability in the workforce, a lack of public accountability, and crime. There is pressure from the rising rand / Dollar exchange rate, and rising input costs. Business leaders and investors are rattled by this list of threats to the continued sustainability of business in this country, and rightly so. However, a continued focus on the negative aspects of doing business in South Africa paints only half a picture. A mature outlook demands an honest assessment that acknowledges successes, and incorporates opportunities as a means of overcoming the challenges we face. In 2014, we celebrate the country’s milestone of twenty years of freedom and democracy. 2014 offers us a significant opportunity to reflect on the challenges South Africans have faced and the progress we have made as a people. It is a chance, also, to recommit to the building of a South Africa of equal opportunity and sustainable economic growth and development. It is against this backdrop that the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber will celebrate 150 years of our organised business movement in Nelson Mandela Bay, as we continue to work towards the creation of an environment conducive to doing business in our region. How will we meet the challenges of job creation and poverty alleviation? How do we ensure the continued competitiveness and sustainability of business into the future? Will we take every action necessary to make sure that we are prepared and ready to tackle these challenges and seize the opportunities that present themselves? Activity in the region points to positive signs. A number of significant projects are planned for, are under construction or are already operational. Investments at Coega are a proud example of this, and we include investments such as those by Afrox, Air Products, Coega Dairy, DCD Engineering, FAW, AGNI Steels and the development of the Bay West Mall. Research conducted for the Business Chamber points to the construction industry as a bright growth point, with the proposed mega-project of Project Mthombo promising significant and far-reaching effects that will change the industrial face of the province for the better, as it diversifies the provincial economy. Rail links in the Eastern Cape will be upgraded to support manganese exports and other rail freight. The new tank farms and ferro-manganese smelter at Coega will be operational, and we’ll see the Port of Ngqura further connected by road, rail and sea. The Port of Port Elizabeth is being positioned as a leading automotive hub for Sub-Saharan Africa, and we are going to see R26 billion invested in the port over the next seven years. There are windows of opportunity in the development of the Maritime sector, which opens doors in logistics, supply chain management, and other related service industries, and the energy economy offers us a supreme catalyst for economic growth. 2014 could prove to be a year of big decisions for companies in the Eastern Cape. The choices we make this year – the opportunities we take, the chances that pass us by, and the perceptions that we create – will have a significant impact on the future economic growth and development of our region. Business holds the economic power, the resources, the skills and the people, to make a difference. Kevin Hustler, CEO of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber

Do you have an Enquiry? All articles end with an enquiry service number. Readers are encouraged to complete the form on page 19 should further information and contact details be required.

January / February 2014

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EC Industrial & Business News

Winning streak in E Cape

The friendly relationship between Air Products and First Automobile Works, dates back to the ground breaking ceremony of the Air Products air separation unit in May when FAW Port Elizabeth project manager, Dan Jordan, handed over a welcome gift to Air Products MD, Mike Hellyar

NDUSTRIAL gas company Air Products is notching up heavyweight clients on the back of its decision to establish a state-of-the-art air separation unit in the Coega Industrial Development Zone (IDZ), by securing Chinese automotive giant, First Automobile Works (FAW). This follows on from September 2013, when Air Products won the national contract to supply APM Terminals with welding gases at their Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Port Elizabeth sites. Air Products believes the new contracts are due to their commitment to service excellence, quality of their product and the advantage of “being neighbours”.

“The market research that led to our decision to locate in the Coega IDZ and Eastern Cape is proving true as Air Products’ starts entrenching itself in both new and established markets,” says Mike Hellyar, Air Products’ Managing Director. “Our presence at Coega has cemented our total national offering and is yielding interest across trade and industry particularly in Port Elizabeth, and specifically within the Coega IDZ, where we are able to maximise the internal supply chain. Coega is built on an industrial cluster model which encourages seamless supply chain integration. We are already benefiting from this – the FAW and APM Terminals contracts are

prime examples of how well this approach is working.” FAW Port Elizabeth project manager, Dan Jordan, says the company is particularly impressed with Air Products’ ability to provide specialised and customised product solutions to suit their requirements, as well as a total engineering solution for supply, storage and use. “In Chinese proverbs they say, ‘a good neighbour is much better than a far relative’. Air Products are strategic neighbours and so we consider them as the preferred suppliers to FAW,” said Jordan adding that the deal clincher was the short distance from the source, convenient and in-time delivery, and the fact that Air Products’ full array of welding material and tools will assist FAW in achieving delivery stability for its clients and the African market. Air Products will supply FAW with all industrial and welding gases needed in the various processes of truck assembly and will be phased in incrementally to accommodate supply needs anticipated in the future. All indications are that FAW will expand their Coega plant to include production of light passenger vehicles in the future. “This signals market growth for us and is perfectly in line with our projections of a growing industrial hub in Nelson Mandela Bay coming to fruition,” adds Hellyar.

“Our objective is to make an impact in the Eastern Cape region, both from an industrial perspective, but also a socio-economic one. The long-term viability of the province is dependent on bold investment and action, which we have unhesitatingly taken. In addition, FAW intends creating hundreds of jobs within Nelson Mandela Bay, expanding its operations and thereby growing the local supply chain – which invariably means jobs,” says Hellyar. “We are set to become an integral part of that.” Currently construction is well-underway in Zone 3 of the Coega IDZ with the R300-million Air Products ASU (air separation unit) expected to come online in the third quarter of 2014. Enquiry no: 9

Critical tools for supporting the mobile enterprise of the future

obile technology is becoming entrenched in the business processes of the modern organisation, enabling business to become decentralised and more responsive to the needs of their customers. The mobile enterprise can also help organisations to put more information into the hands of their workers, when and where they need it, assisting companies to align more closely to its own operations, logistics, planning and execution. Ultimately, the benefit of the mobile enterprise lies in its ability to close the gap between an organisation and its customers, and between the various aspects of the organisation itself, creating a proactive ‘zero distance’ environment. This makes the business more agile, and ultimately more profitable and sustainable as a result. “Mobility has evolved from a tool that enabled the workforce to conduct certain tasks outside of the office, to become a critical tool for executing core business processes whenever and wherever necessary. This further drives zero distance between organisations and its customers. “However, as mobile devices have become essential to business functioning, the management of these devices has become increasingly critical,” says Russel Brand, Innovation Consultant at Solution Sales and Portfolio Management of T-Systems in South Africa. In addition, one of the biggest challenges that arises from the need to incorporate mobile devices into the organisation is loss of data. These mobile devices are being used to handle, process and store highly sensitive data, and while traditional computing comes with a general understanding of the importance of

securing data, the mindset of the mobile user is not yet geared towards mitigating this risk. According to research sponsored by Intel and conducted by the Ponemon Institute, the average value of a lost laptop is R538 252, with the occurrence of a data breach representing 80% of this cost, and the majority of the remaining cost resulting from a loss of intellectual property. Mobile viruses are also on the increase, again resulting in loss or theft of data and potentially attaching themselves to corporate networks and creating further data loss or destruction. The abuse of privileges with regard to mobile devices linked to corporate networks is another issue that needs to be carefully managed. The growth of the Bring Your Own Device trend also presents its own challenges alongside this, as organisations need to be able to deliver a uniform user experience and access to all necessary documents and data for all employees across all devices, regardless of the operating system used or the physical location of the user. According the Ovum, 57.1% of all full time employees are using a personal smartphone or tablet to access corporate data, and that almost 80% of BYOD activity remains unmanaged, creating unnecessary risk for organisations embracing the BYOD trend. Two interlinked technologies offer the solution to these challenges. Mobile Device Management (MDM) offers the toolsets required to provision mobile devices, manage these devices remotely, deliver standardised security policies and control

access to applications on mobile devices within the enterprise, amongst other management and administrative tasks. Working in tandem with this, Mobile Workforce Management (MWM) provides a virtualised environment that enables organisations to provision a standardised desktop and systems across any and all devices, including smartphones and tablets. Enquiry no: 10

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January / February 2014

Adv. Zuko Mapoma, Coega Development Corporate (CDC) Executive Manager (left) with Thandi Rayi, CDC CSI Manager (far right) handing over uniforms to Archie Leeu (centre left) and Siyamthanda Vuyelwa (centre right) beneficiaries of a bursary issued by South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) to study at Lawhill Maritime Centre in Cape Town

EC Industrial & Business News

Maritime bursary awardwinning youths W

n early January, the Coega Development Corporation (CDC) handed over uniforms to two deserving scholars who will be heading to Cape Town to pursue maritime studies. The maritime sector has been identified as a critical Eastern Cape developmental sector and is one of the key areas strategic for contributing skills to the economy of the coastal region. “The recipients of these uniforms come from poverty stricken areas. Archie Leeu (17) is from a farm near Uitenhage and attends a farm school (Rocklands Intermediate School) and Siyamthanda Vuyelwa (15) comes from Kwanobuhle and attends Uitenhage High School,” said Mpumezo Ndabeni, CDC maths and science manager. “What makes these outstanding scholar’s efforts even more com-

mendable is the hardships that they, together with their parents, had to endure. Archie had a difficult upbringing with both parents absent, delaying his progress at school. Siyamthanda was raised by an unemployed single parent and lives in low cost housing.” Notwithstanding their hardships, they were each awarded a South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) Lawhill Maritime Studies Bursary. “The bursary pays for their tuition and accommodation fees at the Lawhill Maritime Centre, while they attend classes at Simon’s Town High School. Further to that, the CDC will pay their transportation costs to and from Cape Town when they have to come back home for recess,” said Thandi Rayi, CDC corporate social investment manager. Enquiry no: 11

South African at the helm of Mercedes-Benz South Africa

reat excitement reigns in G the corridors of MBSA, as the company prepares to welcome its first South African-born Chief Executive Officer from 1 March 2014.

As of the 1st of March, the role of CEO will be taken over by Mr Arno van der Merwe, when current CEO Dr Martin Zimmermann returns to DAG Stuttgart offices as Head of Global Service and Parts for the Mercedes-Benz and smart brands. Van der Merwe will retain his current role as Vice President Manufacturing at the MBSA production plant, in addition to his responsibilities as CEO of the company. He was only the second South African to head up the internationally award-winning plant in East London in 2012, and will be the first CEO of South African birth to lead MBSA. Enquiry no: 12

Holbrook’s Voice

ith the buzz-word these days of ‘renewable energy’ and ‘climate change’ increasingly dominating symposiums and business ventures throughout the world, it is becoming clearer to see how large corporates and even SMME’s are heeding the warnings associated with climate change. It may not be immediately clear to us, but climate change certainly does impact heavily on a number of industries. Water intensive industries especially are impacted with the availability of quality water of consistent supply, becoming a concern in many parts of the world, with the increase in global temperatures playing a significant part in this problem. Although we see first-hand how certain companies are adjusting business practices in this regard, the question remains, “Are companies doing enough?” Well, we know that according to the Global 500 Climate Change Report 2013, 500 of the world’s top companies engage with CDP, a company that has created the world’s only global disclosure system where companies are able to report on their environmental impacts and strategies, to enable effective measurement of their carbon footprint and climate change action. It is however abundantly clear that mitigating the effects of climate change can prove costly to companies, however to preserve the environment that we do business in, this is a non-negotiable. To this end the Border-Kei Chamber of Business wishes to remind the business fraternity that we have a responsibility to create jobs, ensuring economic growth, but in a manner that will preserve our environment. In Buffalo City Metro, the recent signing of a MoU with Engagement Global and the City of Oldenburg in Germany on a Climate Change partnership is evidence that our region is acutely aware of the need to actively influence and mitigates the effects of Climate Change. The agreement will allow for knowledge sharing between the twin cities and creating a joint plan of action. We as a Chamber take Climate Change and renewable energy very seriously, evidence of which is that this article has been drafted on a PC using green energy, powered by the Border-Kei Chamber of Business project, Green Desk. The Green Desk is a Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) trader whereby any company is able to purchase RECs to offset their electricity consumption and thus legitimately claim to use renewable or green energy. You can learn more about the Green Desk by visiting www.bkcob.co.za/greendesk Les Holbrook – Executive Director: Border-Kei Chamber of Business

International credit rating agency launched ive credit rating agencies (CRAs) from F Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America have jointly created ARC Ratings S.A., a

European and network-based CRA which aims to address the global markets’ need for a new approach to rating risk. Through its unique and innovative approach, ARC will empower investors to take better investment decisions and thus optimize the efficient allocation of global capital. Independent from issuers and investors and free from any geographical or institutional bias, ARC’s corporate governance code and rating methodology is different from that of other established rating agencies and aims to avoid conflict of interest in the rating process. Global integration with technological advancement has led to a dynamically changing world which has fundamentally altered the way in which financial markets operate. The world economy has become multipolar and highly interconnected. ARC aims to address these developments by offering an independent and multi-perspective approach with local expertise which will benefit issuers and investors alike. ARC aims to rebuild trust and enhance reliability and transparency in the credit rating industry. ARC combines its multi-presence and multiperspective approach with local expertise: five experienced partners from four continents will work together in different contexts and challenges, using their individual experience to contribute to a new, open-minded and holistic rating process. Enquiry no: 13

January / February 2014

EC Industrial & Business News

HEATING, COOLING & VENTILATION

Breakthrough compressor innovation extended

tlas Copco’s innovative range of GA VSD+ oil-injected screw compressors, launched in April 2013, has now been extended to 37 kilowatt. This breakthrough, award-winning innovation in variable speed drive (VSD, frequency-controlled) oil-injected screw compressors gained immediate market acceptance thanks to its energy savings of 50% on average, a leap in performance (13% more Free Air Delivery) and a canopy less than half the size of the old fixed speed model. Variable speed driven compressors adapt the speed of the compression element to exactly match the compressed air demand. Charl Ackerman, Business Line Manager – Industrial Air Division points out that for a standard VSD compressor, this means an energy

Locos receive cool upgrade

saving of 35% on average. “The new, in-house developed VSD+ takes that figure even higher; an integrated permanent magnet motor drives the VSD+’s screw elements, realizing energy savings of 50% on average, compared to fixed speed models. With 13% more compressed air output (Free Air Delivery) a VSD+ is even more efficient than its fixed speed counterpart, even at full load.” To make this innovation accessible to all compressor users, it is positioned in the market at the same price level as a standard Variable Speed Drive model. Through this strategy, Atlas Copco wants to contribute to a more sustainable industry. Atlas Copco is simultaneously introducing another first in the market, its condensation

prevention cycle for Variable Speed Drive compressors. Thanks to an algorithm in the GA VSD+ controller, the Elektronikon Graphic, condensation in the compression oil is prevented in all circumstances. This includes situations where the compressor is oversized for the application and has to deal with extremely low load conditions (where the compressor is operated for less than a minute every hour). “This condensation prevention cycle maximizes reliability and is another important step towards a 100% VSD ratio, as it allows all compressor users to opt for a Variable Speed Drive and save 50% on their compressor’s electricity bill,” concludes Ackerman. Enquiry no: 14

Two new ultrasonic sensors for switching and measuring

onger operating ranges and broader Lfeatures areas of application are only two of the offered by Leuze’s two new ultrasonic sensors. Suitable for switching and measuring applications, the new devices effectively expand the Leuze line of ultrasonic sensors. The Leuze HTU 418B and Leuze DMU 418B have an operating range of up to 1 300 mm, while the Leuze DMU 430B measuring devices have an operating range of up to 3 000 mm. These fully metal-enclosed ultrasonic sensors offer protection to Class IP 67. The series are available in cylindrical M18 as well as M30 metal housings, with much shorter design compared to the predecessor models.

This means the sensors are easy to install in locations with limited space using the lock nuts on the external threads. Both series are equipped with an improved teach function: two push buttons for defining two independent switching points simplify setup and increase flexibility when using the sensors. Device types with an IO-Link interface ensure the intelligent, simple and user-friendly connection and activation of the sensors. Temperature compensation prevents measurement errors that could be caused by vari-

ous environmental conditions. Four operating modes, e.g. for changing from synchronous to multiplex operation, offer high flexibility during use. The ultrasonic sensors operate using a switching behaviour that is largely independent of the surface of the sound-reflecting materials. They are available with various sound lobes, i.e., with different opening angles. The narrow sound lobes in particular permit the detection of the smallest of objects or the detection through the smallest of apertures at short response times. Countapulse Controls is the official distributor for Leuze sensors in southern Africa and is able to offer technical support including assistance in selection of the most appropriate sensors for any given application.

Enquiry no: 15

Robust long-range photocell has easy set-up

ased on the success of the GE HVAC system supplied for the Class 43 locomotives, Booyco Engineering was awarded the contract to design and manufacture the air conditioning units for Transnet’s Class 34 locomotives. “This contract forms part of an upgrade project being undertaken by Transnet and will see Booyco Engineering fulfilling an order for five air conditioning systems. We will leverage the experience we gained on the Class 43 locomotive installations to custom engineer the system for the Class 34 locos,” Pieter de Koning, MD of Booyco Engineering, explains. The tried and tested design of the inverter driven system, which was engineered for the Class 43 loco, has been incorporated into the Class 34 loco air conditioning system design. “All components for our air conditioning systems are selected to deliver high levels of reliability under extremes of shock and vibration, dust burden, temperature and humidity. The Class 34 loco inverter driven system will provide Transnet with absolute reliability and optimum performance,” he continues. The units will be engineered and supplied over a nine month period in strict accordance with the requirements of ISO 9001:2008. Performance testing will be undertaken in Booyco Engineering’s in-house climate chamber to verify that these units meet all the operating parameters. Each unit will then be certified to ensure compliance with the relevant specifications. De Koning points out that, in addition to the type testing that the first unit of each new design undergoes, each subsequent unit is run and key parameters are recorded (routine testing). “In this way we are able to ensure each unit is commissioned to the same specification as the test unit. A further test on the first installed unit will verify the performance of the air conditioner in situ. “It is critical that Transnet’s Class 34 loco drivers operate in an environment that is conducive to safe working practice and comfort. “Long haul routes and high external ambient temperatures mean that the absence of a reliable and robust air conditioning system results in locomotive driver fatigue and distress. The incorporation of Booyco Engineering’s tried and tested solution will increase the productivity levels and wellbeing of the train drivers,” de Koning concludes. Enquiry no: 16

he newly developed phoT toelectric OI Cube sensor from ifm electronic is distin-

guished by long ranges of up to 800 mm for diffuse types and up to 15 m for retro-reflective types. For diffuse type sensors the range can be set precisely using the multi-turn potentiometer and is shown on a scale. The OI is designed for position detection in conveying where high ranges are required.

As a diffuse type, the sensor operates independently of colour so that objects with different surfaces can be detected reliably without readjustment. The metallic M30 type housing is extremely robust. Even without additional protection the sensor withstands impacts and shocks. A special feature is the switch point setting using the multi-turn potentiometer and a

distance scale. The turns and the scale value are linear to the distance (e. g. ‘1’ = 100 mm, ‘2’ = 200 mm etc.), so before connecting the sensor the switch point can be set and seen from the sensor scale at any time. These easy-to-use newly developed sensors, with long ranges, guarantee maximum reliability under severe conditions.

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Enquiry no: 17

January / February 2014

HEATING, COOLING & VENTILATION

EC Industrial & Business News

A new spin on industrial filtration

urrent industrial filtration methods often require costly maintenance, and filter membrane replacement on an ongoing basis. However, Tshwane-based Rand Technical Services (RTS) offers robust, highlyeffective inertial spin filter technology for industrial dust and exhaust separation, which is virtually maintenance-free. This is according to Ian Fraser, Chairman of RTS (pictured). “Spin Filter units are a high-efficiency application of cyclone technology. Air to be separated is blown through a module that consists of a series of small vortexes. “The air flow is induced to spin by fixed vanes at the entry to the vortexes, and centrifugal force then drives the dirt particles to the outside of the vortex.” Says Fraser. The dirt-laden air is purged through an annular port at the end of the vortex tube. A purge fan is used to keep the dirt-laden waste air in flight, from where it is either dispersed or collected as required.

Clean air then exits to process. “Ninety-eight percent of particles 15 microns and larger are removed by this simple process,” he observes. “In some industries this is particularly useful for materials reclamation, as the environment is protected and, at the same time, valuable fines are recovered that would otherwise be lost into the atmosphere,” Fraser explains. Unlike conventional filter membranes, which clog due to pressure build-up after a period of use, the pressure drop across the spin filter module never increases. The units are self-cleaning, and do not block when correctly installed - thereby offering consistent performance with constant resistance. They are highly energy-efficient too, as the pressure drop though the Spin Filter is constant and does not increase as dust is removed.

“Not only is pressure constant for the life of the unit, but the unit itself has an exceptionally long working life.” “We have installations still going strong that are 23 years old. The sturdy, high density polypropylene construction of the blocks is highly resistant to erosion. Spin filters are proving to be very effective in mining applications with heavy dust loads. This technology is finding wide application in Coal, Gold, Diamond and other mining environments and is also meeting arduous dust removal challenges in underground applications. “This technology has also proven effective for the cooling of variable speed drive installations,” notes Fraser. The spin filters are constructed in modules that can be built up into large panels, sized to match required air flow and so offering an

unlimited capacity on engineered systems. The smallest available unit, containing one Inertial spin filter module, handles from 1200 to 2500 Nm³ per hour with ease, and upper range capacity is only determined by the application, and the available space. Delivering a rapid return-on-investment, the spin filter system has an excellent track record in industries such as power stations, glass plants, cement factories, steel mills and, as above, coal gold and platinum mines. Spin Filters provide sufficient filtration for most environmental applications, such as transformer rooms and control rooms, without the addition of secondary filters. In applications requiring secondary filters to remove finer particles, such as in air compressor intakes, the spin filters substantially extend the life of the secondary filters. Conventional filter membranes are left with very low dust loadings and so last far longer. There is also a beneficial ripple effect on costEnquiry no: 18 saving throughout the plant.

Viable alternative to switchgear

uying low voltage switchgear on price alone puts companies at risk of substandard products that could jeopardise plant performance and uptime. Zest WEG Group’s low voltage WEG switchgear is steadily being recognised as a viable alternative, offering price competitive SABS-approved products to the South African industrial and domestic markets with 24/7 technical backup across the full range. “Today we’re in the same league as the traditional major brand switchgear suppliers and what sets us apart in these markets is our culture of service, which is rolled out countrywide through the Zest WEG Group branches and distributors, including the more outlying mining areas,” says Stephen Cook, switchgear manager at Zest WEG Group. “We make it our business to have an intimate understanding of our customers’ switchgear requirements and we pride ourselves on the ability to respond rapidly to technical queries. Since our distributors all carry stock, we’re able to reduce downtime to a minimum.” The Zest WEG Group first introduced a range of switchgear to the South African market seven years ago and the range progressively expanded to include world renowned WEG switchgear products which have a global presence. In 2006 the company established a dedicated low voltage switchgear division that received an immense boost four years later when WEG acquired Zest, giving the local market direct access to world class products, expertise and solutions. In subsequent years, leveraging WEG’s extensive experience has continued to boost the Zest WEG Group’s switchgear offering, leading to promising growth. “WEG intends to grow strongly in the African market and, in line with its global strategy of localisation, the group is broadening its investment into its local infrastructure,” Cook adds. “Localisation is also in line with the Zest WEG Group’s BBBEE and localisation strategy that seeks to boost job creation and add value to local communities. This invaluable relationship will take us from strength to strength across our switchgear product line.” “Our own significant investment into obtaining SABS approval for our switchgear range and into training our personnel to identify and recommend the right product for specific customer applications, also gives us a competitive edge. We’ll continue to add to and upgrade our range, driven by product quality and robust aftersales service.”

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2013/02/13 12:09 PM

January / February 2014

HEATING, COOLING & VENTILATION

EC Industrial & Business News

Achieving greater energy efficiencies

n critical environments such as laboratories, clean rooms and data centres, energy use can far exceed that of similarly sized office space. Improvements in technology and advances in energy management strategies are providing opportunities to save energy and reduce costs in these environments while maintaining occupant safety and comfort. There are quick wins to be had and there are a number of strategies that can assist to maximise benefits. Neil Cameron (pictured), Area General Manager, Johnson Controls Building Efficiency Africa suggests four key areas which can be reviewed to secure energy efficiency wins: • Air exchange rate: Air inside of the critical environment is often continuously replaced with outside air to protect occupants in critical environments. In many cases, the rate at which air is exchanged in these spaces exceeds what is necessary. Determining if the space may use recirculated air or may recapture heat through equipment like a heat wheel may reduce oper-

ating costs associated with space conditioning. • HVAC capacity requirements: Air systems must evolve alongside changes in the use of the critical environment. Unnecessary, inefficient or legacy HVAC equipment should be decommissioned or upgraded, while expansion of facilities and scientific equipment may require HVAC systems to be updated or HVAC settings to be adjusted. • Improving the responsiveness of air systems: Significant savings may be achieved by upgrading air systems to more responsive variable air volume (VAV) instead of constant volume (CV) equipment. Improved dynamics in the air system offer energy saving opportunities by allowing the equipment to adjust to changes in occupancy, time and equipment usage. • Upgrading fume hoods and controls: Installing efficient laboratory fume hoods for effective removal of dangerous fumes can lower demands on building air systems.

Door and docking solutions for energy saving

New features in fume hoods include automatic door closure systems and motion sensors that adjust airflow if a user is nearby. The best energy efficiency strategies will, however, combine technology with management. Critical environment air systems which incorporate automatic calibration features can adjust airflow and operate more efficiently, while improved fault detection for building equipment provides the opportunity to avoid unscheduled downtime and unexpected costs. HVAC equipment and building management systems will continue to advance, offering new features, automation and intelligent configuration of systems. In critical environments, staying abreast of these new developments is important as the benefits in terms of safety and cost efficiencies can be significant in the long and short Enquiry no: 20 term.

Switching up the heat

egrand has extended its range of time switches, with the launch of a new generation of digital time switches for industrial, commercial and domestic environments. “This new generation of digital time switches is designed for precise automation in various applications, including heating and cooling control,” says Luk Ivens, general manager, Legrand Southern Africa. “For example, digital time switches are ideal for controlling air conditioning systems and are also designed to work with thermostats, pressure switches or humidity sensors.” “These energy efficient time switches are user-friendly, reliable and easy to programme and read - even for a non-technical person. The functional programming facility ensures optimum safety, performance and reliability, as well as enhanced aesthetics.” These programmable time switches, with a digital display, switch an electric circuit – for lighting or heating – on or off at selected times during a pre-programmed time period. Important features of these new environmentally-friendly time switches are a changeable battery and special adaptation for energy saving lamps. Once the date and time have been

sent, no adjustment is necessary. The new design and graphics on the display of these units offers improved visibility. A terminal block with high torque enhances safety of the system. Legrand’s digital DIN rail mounting time switches with multiple functions and programmes for precise control and optimum flexibility have a unique double display, showing at a glance, the on and off actions, as well as the corresponding days. Additional features include a manual or automatic override ON/ OFF facility, as well as a running reserve of six years. This flexible range encompasses time switches, with a daily or weekly programme for standard or multiple functions, as well as special function time switches with expanded offset programming for astronomical functions. There are also time switches with an annual programme for multiple functions. Standard units, with a daily or weekly programme, have a clock with a six year working reserve and a precision of 1 second a day.

any temperature-controlled M facilities record a higher energy consumption than is neces-

sary, but with the right know-how and fairly simple solutions, energy consumption can be dramatically reduced, benefiting the bottom line and the environment at the same time. One of the solutions on offer from Maxiflex, are strip curtains, which present an economical solution for all internal and external openings. The transparent strips are formulated from a PVC compound and are designed to combine high clarity and mechanical strength with an outstanding

degree of flexibility. The clear strips will not interfere with natural light and allow unlimited access to vehicle and pedestrians. One of the many energy and heat saving option is the Albany ASSA ABLOY high speed door which is designed to close automatically once a vehicle has passed out of a bay. Another product line on offer from Maxiflex is the Crawford ASSAABLOY, which is a docking concept that seals the docking unit and reduces heat exchange by as much as 80% compared to traditional dock leveler solutions. Enquiry no: 23

These time switches have an automatic summer/winter changeover and are compatible with alternative energy systems, including solar panels. Time switches for multiple functions have a daily or weekly programme facility, in 15 languages. This programme consists of an on and off time facility, with assignment to certain days. There is also the option to suspend the programme for a specific period, with the instruction to start up again on a certain date. The minimum programme setting for this series is one second, with a high precision clock of approximately 0,1 second per day. This range is particularly well suited to irregular cycles in security and industrial installations. Digital time switches with multi functions and an annual programme have a high precision clock of about 0,2 seconds per day. These flexible units offer about 28 programmes per channel for weekly, annual, astronomical and exceptional programmes.

Enquiry no: 21

Advanced bimetal switches save time and money

heating circuits, compressors or engines and have now been upgraded for applications in compact plants. The switching element, which is threaded, is placed directly in the heating process and can be combined with a temperature sensor, saving on installation time and offer-ing a decisive advantage for local temperature monitoring a n d indication. The type 6 0 8 3 0 1 can also be combined with a Pt1000 temperature s e n s o r allowing two functions to be combined in a single enclosure. The temperature sensor can be connected to a controller to control the heating process while the bimetal switch mechanically safeguards the process by opening the contact once the switching temperature has been reached. The user now saves half the time and material installation costs and the need for only one installation makes it perfect for difficult to reach places and smaller plants. The switch can either be retrofitted in existing

plants or in new developments. A large selection of electrical connection option ranging from an M12 connector or DIN bayonet connector to a permanently

connected cable, ensures that the Jumo bimetal switch can be flexibly used in a variety of application environments.

Enquiry no: 22

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umo’s bimetal switches – now available Jvariety from ASSTech – can be used in a wide of applications such as cooling or

January / February 2014

HEATING, COOLING & VENTILATION

Blowing the competition away

rom humble beginnings as a one-man operation in 1985, Johannesburg-based industrial blower and compressor supply specialist Airgas Compressors has rapidly expanded its workforce complement to over 70, while extending its geographical footprint into Nigeria in 2013. Airgas is the Sub-Saharan subsidiary of German-based Aerzener Maschinenfabrik (Aerzen), one of the world’s leading specialists in the design and manufacture of roots blowers, turbo blowers, screw compressors, rotary lobe compressors and gas meters. This comprehensive product range is ideally suited to numerous industries ranging from mining and milling, to the petrochemical and steel industries. Airgas marketing co-ordinator Andreas Stubel notes that the company has been able to maintain consistent success in the local market thanks to the world class quality and reliability of the Aerzen range, combined with the company’s ability to provide field service, repairs and overhauls on the entire Aerzen product range. “All Airgas technicians have undergone full training by Aerzen specialists in Germany, and are on call on a 24/7 basis. Airgas sets itself apart from the competition, due to Aerzen equipment’s flexibility, which can be fully customised in order to satisfy the customer’s unique systems and operational requirements,” he explains. Stubel explains that the Delta Blower Generation 5 is the latest model of Aerzen positive displacement blowers introduced locally. “Blower units are designed for conveying air and neutral gases in industrial applications. The Delta Blower Generation 5 is available in 14 different sizes with pressure ranges up to 1000 mbar and intake volume flows ranging from 30 m3/h to 9 000 m3/h.” The Delta Blower Generation 5 is also available in 12 different sizes for vacuum applications and negative pressures up to -500 mbar.

“This makes the entire range ideally suited to a wide variety of applications, including; aeration of wastewater treatment basins, pneumatic conveying of bulk materials and homogenising of cement,” he continues. Stubel notes that the Aerzen Delta Blower Generation 5 features; considerable sound reductions, easy operation and maintenance from the front of the machine and spacesaving side-by-side installation. Furthermore, there is no absorption material in the discharge silencer, resulting in zero contamination of the system. All models of Delta Generation 5 blowers make use of a mechanical fan, as opposed to an electric fan, in order to ventilate the acoustic hood, which ultimately ensures further energy cost savings. The patented internal pulsation reduction is another benefit of Aerzen blower units. “Roots blowers produce sound pulsations which are carried over into the piping system. Apart from being extremely loud, these sound waves produce vibrations and can eventually lead to a damaged piping system. Aerzen’s patented integrated pulsation reduction effectively reduces the pulsations produced by the rotors, whereby the cylinder housing is cast with channels on the discharge side. These channels allow for a small stream of gas to escape back into the conveying chamber. This effectively reduces the pulsations, thereby lowering the machine noise and vibrations,” Enquiry no: 24 he says.

EC Industrial & Business News

Rapid roll up doors

he food and beverage processing and packaging industries require doors that are not only rapidly opened and closed, but that also adhere to strict hygiene standards. The Ditec Alimax rapid roll up doors, which are distributed in southern Africa by Apex Strip Curtains & Doors, are designed to meet the requisite cleanliness regulations of the industry. Prerequisites for doors cited by companies in the food and beverage sector include ease of cleaning and disinfecting. “In addition, feedback indicates that these doors should not be affected by either humidity or detergents, and they should prevent the collection of dust,” says Wim Dessing, MD of Apex Strip Curtains & Doors. Maximised uptime and ease of pedestrian and vehicular traffic flow remain important requirements for any access point. With an opening speed of 1.5 m/s and closing speed of 0.8 m/s, the Alimax doors reduce the ingress of external air, noise, dust and other contaminants, while simultaneously increasing productivity of employees due to their seamless opening and closing response. “In spite of their ability to rapidly open and close, the design of the doors is centred on employee safety and the protection of products. By utilising IP67 safety photocells in the vertical frames, the Alimax doors ensure that no person or vehicle will be accidentally trapped under a closing door,” Dessing points out. The design of the Alimax doors is based on research into the food industry’s specific requirements. “Primarily, the market drivers are a compact footprint, ease of installation and flexibility of materials. The Alimax door’s motor is built into the roll up shaft of the curtain and the load

bearing structure is extremely small, to allow the door to effortlessly fit into even the most congested areas,” Dessing explains. A number of factors contribute to the ease with which the system can be installed. These include the use of a pre-assembled tubular motor, a programmable control panel with absolute encoder position control for setting of the open-close position, a wireless safety edge that allows signal transmission without cabling, and high level pre-assembly of the integrated safety photocells. Dessing points out that the flexible selfrepairing curtain is manufactured from highly wind resistant, yet flexible, polyester material that is impervious to tearing. In addition, the supporting structure is made from a reinforced composite material that is waterproof and Enquiry no: 25 corrosion resistant.

Seal cylinder cover launched

ear control specialist Filter Focus has introduced a breakthrough in preventative maintenance tools to the African marketplace. Filter Focus COO Craig FitzGerald notes that the Seal Saver range is designed for extending the life of hydraulic cylinders and hoses. “It is a simple solution to a variety of hydraulic and air cylinder rod maintenance issues, as it boasts excellent resistance to heat, oil, chemicals and water,” he explains. According to FitzGerald, the Seal Saver range is available in ballistic nylon, Kevlar or silicon models, which can all withstand temperatures up to 1 000 oC. “What’s more, the Velcro closure and wraparound design makes installation quick and easy, with no disassembly of the cylinder required. Once installed, the Seal Saver opens and closes like an accordion as the cylinder works.”

Tel: +27 31 701 3261/2

FitzGerald adds that the Seal Saver range also prevents silt-sized particles from entering the hydraulic system via the rod seals. “Once in the system, these tiny particles can act as a lapping compound, causing wear to valves and pumps, and eventually damaging the entire hydraulic system. “Seal Saver helps to stop the influx of contaminants, to ensure the hydraulic system remains clean and operational, saving equipment owners’ time and money in repairs and unexpected downtime.” Manufactured in the USA, Seal Saver has been proven to extend the life of the cylinders, as it prevents harmful dust and debris from damaging the cylinder. Once the cylinder needs to be replaced, Seal Saver can be reused on the new cylinder for up to 25 years. Enquiry no: 26

Fax: +27 31 701 8216

Email: reception@natalpumps.co.za Website: www.natalpumps.co.za

71333 HFT Reliable ad.indd 1

2013/10/01 4:56 PM

January / February 2014

HEATING, COOLING & VENTILATION

EC Industrial & Business News

Boiler business breaks into overseas market

WEG acquires Zest WEG Group Zest WEG Group acquires Hawker Siddeley Transformers (est 1956) Zest Electric Ghana opens Zest acquires Zest Energy (est 2008) Zest acquires EnI Electrical (est 1984) Zest acquires Shaw Controls (est 1986) Middelburg branch opens

To find out more scan the code or visit: zest.co.za/sustainability

Port Elizabeth branch opens

Zest acquires IMS Cape

2013 2010 2010 2009 2007 2007 2007 2002

To find out more scan the code 00 ZEST (9378) | www.zest.co.za or0861 visit: zest.co.za/sustainability

Rustenburg branch opens Trichardt branch opens

2002 1998

BLUE IS THE NEW GREEN

+27 11 723 6000

www.zest.co.za

www.zest.co.za 0861 00 ZEST (9378)

Richards Bay branch opens Cape Town branch opens Zest Electric Motors established in Jhb WEG established in Brazil

Durban branch opens

1997 1994 1991 1980 1961

We push boundaries to deliver n We listen to our customers n We focus on all our customers, big and small

THROUGH OUR PEOPLE

PASSION

CUSTOMER FOCUSSED

2008

Manufacturing facilities on 4 continents n 55 000 motors produced per day n 3rd largest electrical manufacturer worldwide n WEG products distributed in over 185 countries n 2.5% of WEG’s annual net income spent on R&D n

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2020

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nstrotech, local distributor of process control instrumentation and specialised systems, has announced the availability of the Optris PI camera featuring online thermal imaging systems, claiming impressive costto-performance ratios. Developed to thermally determine objects and automatically detect hot or cold spots, typical applications are research and development (R&D); test stations (T&M); process automation and portable measurement tasks. The Optris PI covers a range of temperature measurements between -20°C and 1500°C. The camera, once connected to a PC with USB 2.0, can be used immediately after connection. The Optris PI Connect software displays the captured temperature data as a thermal image, while remotely controlling the camera. Based on a small, uncooled bolometer (UFPA) with 160x120 pixels or 382x288 pixels, the Optris PI delivers thermal images in real time with a frequency of up to 128 Hz. Fast processes can be captured and stored as snapshots or video sequences and it’s possible to detect the smallest temperature differences of an object due to the unit’s high thermal sensitivity range. Optris PI200 using BI-SPECTRAL technology, can combine a visual image (VIS) with a thermal image (IR) which can be captured time-synchronously. In a ready-to-use mode, the cameras’ weight is not more than 320 grams, including lens and cable, making it the smallest (dimensions: 46 mm x 56 mm x 90 mm) thermal imager in the world. In combination with a tablet PC, the cameras are used as a mobile solution for preventive maintenance or construction thermography, covering the existing gap between portable infrared snapshot cameras and pure fixed devices. The Optris PI thermal imager’s housing is rated IP 67 (NeMA-4) protection class and can be installed in surroundings with temperatures up to 50°C. For applications of up to 100°C, the Optris PI, together with an air cooling system like the VORTEX cooler’s air purge collar, protects the lens from dirt. The optional cooling housing allows for the installation of the camera in rough, industrial surroundings and can be used for ambient temperatures of up to 240°C in combination Enquiry no: 28 with water-cooling systems.

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It has sold seven of these to customers in Kenya, Tanzania and Malawi.

tions prevalent at the tea plantations. The scope of some of these projects has been increased to include economisers to further improve the boilers’ efficiency. The company was also able to satisfy the requirements of a large copper mining operation in Northern Zambia who required steam to reprocess existing mine dumps and were looking for a supplier able to offer a turnkey solution. They supplied them with three boilers each of 8 t/h steam capacity, which are designed to deal with the fluctuating load profile of the process, together with a pressure deaerator. Each boiler is also equipped with an economiser to enhance operational efficiency. South-East Asia remains by far the largest export market for the company, which supplies it with custom-designed Europac boilers that can burn the low-grade coal used there.

Coralynne & Associates +27 (011) 422 1949

he Package Boiler business unit of John Thompson, a division of ACTOM (Pty) Ltd, has made a breakthrough into the Australian market, as well as boosting sales into its traditional markets in sub-Saharan Africa and South-East Asia. The company’s first boiler sold into Australia, to a meat by-product processing company, was transported by road from the John Thompson factory near Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, then shipped on a roll-on roll-off vessel that was taking motor vehicles to Brisbane, Australia. Upon arrival it was unloaded onto the special haulage vehicle, with a 12 axle trailer. After careful pre-auditing by the customer of John Thompson’s procedures, the buyer promptly ordered two Europac 21 t/h steam capacity coal-fired boilers and one Enviropac 16 t/h biogas-fired boiler. The new coal-fired boilers were purchased to replace aging watertube coal-fired boilers in the customer’s plant. The project also included the installation of digesters on existing ponds to produce biogas. The biogas will in turn be burnt in the biogas-fired boiler to produce steam, thereby reducing fuel costs and the company’s carbon footprint. John Thompson also continues to experience strong demand from the niche tea industry in East Africa for its Simpac wood-fired boilers.

Coralynne & Associates +27 (011) 422 1949

January / February 2014

EC Industrial & Business News

AUTOMATION & ROBOTICS

Press line in record time

Control your robot C ontinued automation of processes within the manufacturing industry in southern Africa is fuelling demand for world-class robotics that will enable local companies to compete on a global stage. Advanced control equipment that ensures the smooth operation of robotics out in the fields is also being used to manipulate the robotics to work ever faster and more accurately. Like the central nervous system of a living creature, signals are constantly transmitted between these controllers and robotic devices in order to facilitate effective operation of the processes. In most manufacturing environments however, conditions are arduous, with extreme temperatures, excessive mechanical forces and sometimes chemicals and contaminants that can interfere with machines. As a result, careful attention needs to be paid to designing and manufacturing control cablings paths that can withstand the rigours while performing flawlessly over the duration of the manufacturing process. Robotic cabling, harnessing and accessory specialists Helukabel, are at the forefront of technology to interface controllers with robots. The company’s expertise ensures that the “central nervous system” of an operation continues to work flawlessly, as it was designed to, for years to come no matter what conditions need to be contended with on site. The company’s Robotec Systems Gmbh subsidiary works with customers around the world who require robotic automation in their operations. Robotec engineers are able to develop pre-

assembled cable protection systems (Dress Packs) for robots and handling systems, as well as offer additional services to ensure the optimal performance of robotic systems for almost any application. The services they offer include system analysis, consulting, planning, installation, service and warranty of mass-produced cable protection systems for robots in automation systems. Control pathways are tailor-made to suit customer’s applications with products that include dress package systems and associated systems for automation, handling, and spot welding, as well as gas-shielded welding and laser welding. Doug Gunnewegh of Helukabel South Africa says specialists are able to assist in the selection of the correct cables, lines, supplemental systems and cable protection systems to be used within all different applications. “They are able to conceive and construct suitable systems to keep pace with the ever advancing technologies used in robotics today.” Whether in Germany, South Africa or anywhere in the world, Robotec’s expert team of robotics specialists is able to assist companies to get the most out of their automations systems and keep them running reliably for years Enquiry no: 29 to come.

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Once all modifications were complete, Vanguard rigged the various parts into position with its 18 ton Ormig pick and carry crane and a range of smaller forklifts

A Automotive, contracted Vanguard, a world player in heavy transport, lifting and plant relocation, to complete two turnkey projects. The first of which consisted of offloading, transporting and rigging six automotive panel presses, and the second which required Vanguard to offload, transport and install all the ABB robotics at the manufacturers plant in Berlin, East London. In the first phase, Vanguard used its 600 ton gantry system to offload the 3 950 tons of cargo from the docked vessel in just six days. The cargo, with the largest component featuring a capacity of 2 000 tons, was then staged at the port and delivered to site in 18 trips over a three week period. Under normal circumstances this project would be considered as simple, but the infrastructure surrounding the port and leading to Berlin posed many challenges. “The road network in this area was not designed for transporting abnormal loads of this nature, so we had to survey a new route, which was much longer and took us along very narrow and dilapidated roads. We also couldn’t cross many of the bridges, including the one at the port, so these were either by-passed completely or propped,” says Bryan Hodgkinson, Managing Director of Vanguard. The new route via Kidds Beach was longer in distance, spanning 100km, but it by-passed all inaccessible roads and low capacity bridges enabling Vanguard to successfully transport all of the press components using its two 14-axle Goldhofer hydraulic trailers and a multitude of small trailers. Once the presses were offloaded from the trailers and rigged into position, Vanguard’s

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your sensor solution Tel: 011 615 7556 • Fax: 011 615 7513 e-mail: clive@countapulse.co.za

on-site team, consisting of 13 electrical and mechanical technicians, ensured that the presses were accurately positioned and ready for the robotics - which lift and handle car body frames and other components - to be installed. The second phase of the project took Vanguard only one month to complete as the route from the port was now familiar and solutions were found to many of the initial challenges. “With many of the robotics having to be modified on-site to help ensure accurate functionality, our team worked around the clock to complete phase two. Once all modifications were complete, we rigged the various parts into position with our 18 ton Ormig pick and carry crane and a range of smaller forklifts,” explains Hodgkinson. To ensure the smooth operation and transition between the presses, it was essential that Vanguard mechanically rigged the robotic line with absolute precision. In addition to modifying the robotics, Vanguard took the initiative to build a new enclosure around the completed press line, reducing noise and improving plant safety. “Our team was able to install the robotic line at the required 1.5 metre height in-between the presses, and we were also able to successfully complete this two-phase project one month ahead of schedule, going beyond what was initially required,” adds Hodgkinson. Although the project posed various challenges to the transportation and rigging specialists, the vast experience of the team as well as its range of heavy duty, durable machinery enabled it to complete the automotive press line installation, creating one seamless process, far ahead of the initial deadline. Enquiry no: 30

New midrange controllers for power and performance

ockwell Automation has launched the new Allen-Bradley CompactLogix 5370 L3 programmable automation controllers (PAC). The L3 range has been developed for applications that require greater performance and higher I/O counts than those covered by the L1 and L2 units in the same range and is ideal for applications from small, standalone equipment to high-performance indexing tables, process skids, materials handling machines and packaging line case packers and erectors. In addition, the non-energy storage version will suit the needs of the mining industry and others with volatile environments. The L3 offers impressive networking capabilities. With dual Ethernet ports and an integrated Ethernet switch, the controllers support Device Level Ring (DLR) network topologies, which simplify the integration of components into a control system while reducing system cost. The dual ports also pre-empt the loss of one network connection; allows the replacement of devices one at a time without stopping production; and reduce the number of Ethernet switches in the control system. The controllers also deliver a strong, scalable and cost-competitive motion solution and when coupled to the Allen-Bradley Kinetix 350, they can support up to 16 axes of integrated CIP Motion.

As part of the Integrated Architecture system, these controllers use the same programming software, network protocol and information capabilities as all Logix controllers; providing a common development environment for all control disciplines. The range comprises six models (L30ER, L30ERM, L30ER-NSE, L33ER, L33ERM and L36ERM). All variants can re-use existing 1769 I/O and up to 30 local expansion modules and 480 local expansion I/O points can be added, depending on the model. User memory is 1, 2 or 3MB and they all support Kinematics, which eliminates the need for additional robot controllers and software. Other impressive features and benefits include: built-in energy storage, which eliminates the need for lithium batteries; a removable 1GB secure digital (SD) card, to improve data integrity; and open socket capability, which allows support for Modbus TCP as well as devices such as printers, barcode readers and servers. The No Stored Energy (NSE) version offers additional features for hazardous environments. These features allow the safe transport of the controller in and out of hazardous areas because, when powered down, they have less than 200uJ of residual energy stored in each component; minimising the potential to cause an explosion in a gaseous environment. Enquiry no: 31

January / February 2014

EC Industrial & Business News

ENGINEERING AND ALLIED SUPPLIES

Sensors for vibration analysis

onitran has launched six new ranges of general-purpose industrial sensors for vibration analysis. High accuracy, quick recovery from shock loading, and high immunity from electrical noise make these new sensors suitable for a variety of applications. The units are supplied as top- or sideentry and with integral cables and connectors. Submersible and intrinsically safe versions are also available. Devices in the new 2200 range are ideal for vibration analysis. As standard, they operate between ±80 G, have a rapid response to shock loading and can withstand forces in excess of 10 000 G. The sensors have isolated AC outputs with sensitivities of 100 V/G, with alternate sensitivities available on request. In addition, they offer good bias voltage stability with typical drift no more than 3 mV/° with a bias voltage of 11,6V. A second new range, the 2300 series, comprises dual output devices. Here, sensors replicate AC output for vibration analysis of the 2200 range, but also have an output proportional to temperature (at 10 mV/°C, a de facto standard sensitivity for many data-loggers). For monitoring velocity, Monitran’s third new range, the 2285 series, features devices with DC outputs (4 – 20 mA) proportional to RMS velocity, with outputs proportional to peak velocity available on request. These are ideal for providing machine/plant protection by allowing monitored velocity (i.e. speed of vibration) levels to be included within a condition based predictive maintenance strategy. The maximum sensitivity is typically 0 to 100 mm/s. By incorporating full internal screening within the 2285 range, potential earth loop problems are eliminated and installation is simplified. The fourth range of the sensor is the Monitran 2287 series, offering the same features as the 2285 series but with the DC output proportional to acceleration as opposed to velocity. RMS is standard but with peak as an option. The fifth and sixth ranges, series 2385 and 2387, add secondary outputs for temperature (10 mV/°C) to the 2285 and 2287 ranges. Enquiry no: 32

Detector for increased work safety

Reducing load impact by 30% B MG’s power transmission division has extended its range of heavy industrial couplings to now include Rexnord Falk Steelflex couplings. “This brand is known globally for highly efficient and reliable performance, even in arduous applications. Falk Steelflex couplings have also been proven to minimise downtime – an important factor in determining the total cost of ownership,” says Carlo Beukes, BMG’s power transmission product manager. “Couplings are put under enormous pressure from high impact loads on conveyors, shredders and mixers in harsh operating environments and vibratory loads on high speed applications, like pumps or compressors, can also cause the break down of couplings.” BMG’s new Falk Steelflex grid couplings, reduce the impact of these loads on equipment by up to 30%. Falk Steelflex grid couplings have a unique “replace in place” design which eliminates the need to remove or reposition hubs, or re-align shafts, which is required with gear couplings and many elastomer designs. This feature significantly reduces element change out time. These couplings also offer equipment protection against shaft misalignment. The grid, which is quench and tempered, is free to rock, pivot and float within the hub teeth. This means misalignment capacity is provided, without producing detrimental bearing side loads created by conventional couplings. When subjected to normal shock or vibratory loads, the grid coupling torsionally deflects.

These couplings offer enhanced vibration damping and reduce peak torque by about 30%, also reducing wear on connected equipment components. These couplings act as a shock absorber for rotary motion, relying on the predictable resilience of the steel grid for torsional flexibility. The Falk grid range is available in 25 sizes with various bore, speed and torque capacities. There are 11 models available, including high speed, spacer, flywheel, brake and controlled torque. These couplings have a maximum bore of 508 mm, a maximum torque capacity of

932 000 Nm and speeds up to 10 000 rpm, depending on the coupling model and size. This range has a modular design, which reduces the number of spare parts required in inventory. For example, it is possible to convert a close coupled design coupling to a full spacer by replacing the standard hubs with shaft and spacer hubs. A standard coupling can also be adapted for high speeds by simply changing the horizontal split cover to a vertical split cover. With a few additional components, it is possible to adapt the Falk Steelflex inventory to a variety of applications. Features of Falk grid couplings include a tapered T-grid profile that fits smoothly into the hub to ensure easy installation and maintenance. High strength alloy steel grids are tempered to spring hardness and precision shot peened for increased fatigue strength to protect equipment against shock and vibratory conditions. Durable, nitrile seals prevent the loss of lubrication and the ingress of water, dust and other materials. Grade 5 cap screws ensure secure fastening of the cover which can be powder coated for resistance to chemicals. This range offers high torque ratings, low operating costs and extended maintenance periods. The application of Falk Long Term Grease (LTG) means lubrication of couplings is not required again for a period of five years. This grease, which has been developed specifically for couplings, resists the separation of oil and thickening agent that occurs in ‘normal’ Enquiry no: 34 greases.

Unique heat-fused waterproofing solution

new, unique bitumen heat-fused waterproofing membrane produced by the world-renowned Italian company, Index, has been launnched by a.b.e. Construction Chemicals. Armodillo is a multi-functional polymer-bitumen membrane that offers waterproofing, drainage and the protection of foundation walls in a single product application. Lance Anderson, a.b.e.’s Brand Manager: Waterproofing, says: “Index’s new Armodillo Polyester membranes - which incorporate anti-root protection can solve the problems of waterproofing, mechanical protection, and drainage – all in one product.” Armodillo’s upper face is armoured with impact-resistant, elastic polymer-bitumen ‘dimples’ or bubbles –similar to the protective plates of an Armadillo’s shell - that protect the membrane from perforation when buried, and at the same time form an efficient drainage network that allows any water to quickly drain to the perimeter drains, stopping hazardous pool-

ing. If the dimples are torched, they become adhesive, making it possible to bond insulating panels, non-woven fabrics and other materials on to the membrane. The lower face of Armodillo membranes is covered with Flamina, a plastic film that can be easily torched. The bubbles on the Armodillo membranes keep the installer’s hands away from the torch,

making installation much safer and easier. Index Armodillo can be installed by bonding the next membrane onto the 70 mm indented selvage of the previous membrane ensuring that no raised, uneven problematic laps are created. Armodillo can be used on both flat and vertical parts of a building, and for ground foundation walls as a protective and draining layer. “a.b.e. sees tremendous potential for Index Armodillo as a simple-to-use waterproofing solution for both roof gardens and belowground tanking areas. Its multi-functionality substantially reduces multiple product applications to reduce time on site. The Armodillo multi-functional membrane has far greater puncture resistance than conventional HDPE membranes,” Anderson states. Armodillo membranes are covered against product failure by Index’s 10-year insurancebacked warranty that incorporates excess-free claims should a product-related failure occur. Enquiry no: 35

he Skil 0550AA Detector from the South SAICE accredits unique course with CPD points T African division of Bosch Power Tools crecourse on good concrete practices ates a safer work environment by detecting “We recognise the need to invest is primarily aimed at architects, A and cement manufacturing devised by the knowledge we’ve accumulated live electric wires, metal structures or pipes in quantity surveyors and civil engiAfriSam has been qualified by the South in these fields into the professional walls where work needs to take place. neers and will be presented to Bosch Power Tools South Africa senior brand manager Juergen Lauer notes: “The Skil 0550AA Detector instantly shows where metal structures and plumbing pipes, as well as live electric wires, are located. In addition, it also shows the locations of hidden wooden joists and substructures.” The Detector has a maximum scanning depth of 80 mm in ferrous metals, a depth of 60 mm in non-ferrous metals (such as copper), a maximum scanning depth of 50 mm with live copper conductors, and a depth of 20 mm for wooden substructures. The device will automatically switch off after 5 minutes, saving battery power. It has a focus function allowing for precise location of objects, with acoustic and red/green LED feedback. The acoustic feedback can be switched on and off as required, and the feedback indicates any progress in detection, whether or not anything has in fact been found. The 0550AA Detector comes with a low battery indicator, and automatic calibration, meaning that it is always ready for use. It also has a convenient marking hole for easy marking of hidden objects. The large, detailed LCD display allows for easy and accurate read-out, and at a glance shows what kind of material is detected. The Detector includes magnetic or non-magnetic metal indication, and the live wire detection mode is always active, allowing Enquiry no: 33 for maximum working safety.

African Institute of Civil Engineers (SAICE) to be presented as part of its CPD (Continuous Personal Development) initiative. The new course was reviewed by an external academic and accredited with 0.4 CPD points. Mike McDonald, AfriSam product manager, says the new course is a first for the South African engineering world in that it is the first time an industry role player has offered a course of this calibre to the professional engineering fraternity free of charge.

arena where it will best impact curgroups of between seven and 20 rent and future industry standards,” people. Course content includes he comments. cement specifications, concrete “This is solid, hard-won technical technology, durability issues and know-how that we want to add to the a look at the cement manufacturindustry’s knowledge base. We aim ing process. to present the course on a monthly For more information or to basis at company sites and invite book this course, contact Amit interested parties to contact us to Dawneerangen on telephone Mike McDonald, make the necessary arrangements.” number 011 758 6000 or email manager of The four-hour concrete practices AfriSam’s Centre of technicaltraining@za.afrisam.com. Enquiry no: 36 and cement manufacturing course Product Excellence.

Specialists in Corrosion Protection

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Tel: 041 4511947 | Fax: 041 4510773 | Cell: 0824410692 E-Mail: henning@galvaspin.co.za | Website: www.galvaspin.co.za 2 - 5 Fearick Street, Sidwell, Port Elizabeth

January / February 2014

EC Industrial & Business News

INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY Property buyers beware

roperty can be a great investment. Just be sure to do your homework, and seek professional advice, before you buy. Take for example a recent High Court case in which the auction buyer of a prime Camps Bay property claimed damages of R25m both from the seller and from the auctioneer. Its R25m loss was, said the buyer (a company), caused by misrepresentations and non-disclosure which induced it to buy the property for a price of R44 million (R40m plus R4m auctioneer’s commission) – R25m more than the R19m it would otherwise have paid. The nub of the buyer’s case was its allegation that the auctioneer and seller had misrepresented to its director, both verbally and in the auction brochure, that there were “approved building plans” in place suitable for the fulfillment of the director’s dream to develop a restaurant and boutique hotel on the property. Only 6 months after the sale, said the director, did she learn for the first time that no building plans had in fact been passed. Her subsequent attempts to have plans approved failed, and two years later there were still unresolved issues around zoning scheme height restrictions, heritage demolition permits and environmental authorisations - her dream was shattered, and her company was down R25m. It wasn’t disputed that the auctioneer had in his pre-auction “patter” said that “development plans” had been approved and that a buyer could “go right ahead”, and could “start developing here as soon as possible”. Clear as that sort of statement may seem, the Court’s decision – which was to find against the buyer and dismiss its claim - is a stark reminder to do your own homework when it comes to the technicalities of buying property. The Court found that • No express representations as

to the passing of building plans had been made, nor was it a misrepresentation to suggest that “development approvals” had been given - no doubt a very fine distinction to the average buyer, but critical in this case. • SDP or “site development plan” drawings had in fact been approved, but they were not “building plans”, they merely showed the extent to which the City Council had removed and amended title deed restrictions and granted departures so that a building of the kind described in the brochure could be built – another fine technical distinction no doubt to any lay buyer, but again critical in this case. • The agent appointed by the buyer to bid for it at the auction was aware that no building plans had actually been passed (although everyone it seems expected plan approval to be “a mere formality”). • The buyer had on the facts failed to prove its damages. • The final nail in the buyer’s coffin was the Court’s finding that the auctioneer and the seller were, in the absence of any proof of fraud on their part, protected by (respectively) a disclaimer in the auction brochure and an exemption clause in the conditions of sale. The director’s main mistake seems to have been that she had, in the Court’s words, “paid very little attention to matters of detail”. Don’t make the same mistake. Before you buy, have your lawyer vet the sale agreement (“conditions of sale” if it is an auction) and check for title deed and zoning restrictions, planning requirements, indeed for anything that might negatively impact on the property’s value to you.

uality commercial and industrial properties in South Africa will continue to boast yields comparative to most other investment classes in the near future, despite the market remaining as flat as it has over the past five years. This is according to Gerrie van Biljon (pictured), Executive Director at Business Partners Limited, who says that the company, which oversees a property portfolio of nearly R1 billion, is optimistic about the property market as an investment haven in 2014, despite the possible risks to the sector. Van Biljon believes that the South African property market is less exposed to shocks in the global economy as, for example, the stock markets. “Any of the imminent setbacks to the global economy, such as the raising of the close-to-0% interest rates of the developed world, or the tapering off of America’s policy of quantitative easing will reflect immediately in the JSE indices, but not necessarily in property values.” The fact that there are very few bargains to be found in South Africa’s commercial property sector – particularly manufacturing and retail space – despite the economy’s sluggish crawl back from the recession, proves the market’s status as a solid investment in difficult times, says van Biljon. “Business owners that have been under pressure since the property boom, which ended in 2008, have either exited the market or now have their affairs in order. Investors also tend to hang onto their property investments rather than disposing of them in order to invest in low bearing return categories, and as a result few good property investment

This article is an edited version of one that first appeared in LawDotNews and is reproduced with the authority of DotNews and of King Essack Associates Inc, Attorneys, Notaries and Conveyancers . Enquiry no: 37

CMY

Commercial property remains safe haven for cautious investors possibilities enter the market. The consequence of this is that capitalisation rates remain virtually unchanged, meaning the price of commercial and industrial properties did not take a major dip, unlike the residential market where prices fell.” Van Biljon says that the exception is however the office space sector, which is likely to suffer from stubbornly high vacancy rates in the near future as it has for the last few years. “Owners of non-premium office blocks are therefore unlikely to get the rental escalations for 2014 that they would like as the high level of vacancies places tenants in a strong negotiating position.” “This in turn also keeps the market values down and results in a less attractive option for investors. “The other side of the coin is that there are probably a few bargains available in the office sector for investors who are willing to wait for optimal return.” He says that the anaemic economy will also continue to pull down rental escalations for commercial and industrial properties in the year ahead. “Tenants are increasingly opting for shorter leases, and landlords are struggling to attain a 10% rental increase due to tenant’s good position to bargain – a far cry from the 9 to 14% increases they could apply a few years back. If such weak escalations continue, they are likely to put pressure on the long-term value of property.” Of more immediate concern for property owners is the increase in the cost of maintaining and managing properties, such as wages for cleaning staff and security guards, maintenance services, municipal property rates and electricity charges. “These costs are difficult to control,

but have a major impact on the return on investment that a property brings to a portfolio. Under such difficult circumstances, it becomes even more important for an investment property to be well managed to maintain its value. Business owners and investors, who are too distracted to pay attention to their properties, are well advised to appoint professional property managers.” The interest rate is another risk factor to consider as should it go up, property values will stagnate as the investment becomes less affordable and attractive. Van Biljon says that given the mentioned risks, thought should be given to buying a property with a co-investor, rather than through financing, in order to spread exposure to risk. “Business Partners has co-invested in many retail and industrial complexes in addition to purchasing such property outright. In this way, we are likely to increase our sizeable property portfolio in the coming year – the surest vote of confidence in the investment value of the sector.” He however stresses that optimism for the investment value of property in 2014 is reserved only for goodquality commercial and industrial stock, namely well situated, well managed, accessible, secure factories, warehouses and shops with adequate facilities. “Prospective buyers are better off worrying about these factors rather than the unpredictable ups and downs of the economy, as it is difficult to time the market and property must therefore be seen as a long-time investment,” concludes van Biljon. Enquiry no: 38

The need for access facilities in SA’s commercial property arena

n today’s fast moving and economically challenging business environment it is increasingly necessary to have access to available funds in order to secure transactions as they arise or reinvest capital into a business at short notice. However, according to Gary Palmer (pictured), CEO of Paragon Lending Solutions, most South African businesses do not always have the means available to access funds at short notice from traditional lenders, which can significantly hinder business growth. Palmer says that businesses and property investors who take

out commercial property loans from banks are often restricted when it comes to accessing funds, as they are not able to access the loan for funds as one can do with a residential property loan. He says this has always been a problem for businesses and property owners in South Africa. “Residential property loans have historically been designed as an access facility for clients, which means that as

clients pay down the loan they are then able to draw back up on the loan to the original facility amount when the need arises. Banks don’t however allow the same flexibility with commercial property loans, as it carries a different risk profile.” Palmer explains that property owners usually pay commercial property off over 10 years, as opposed to residential property, which is traditionally paid off over 20 years. “For commercial property loans banks often want the term of the loan to mirror the length of the lease.” He notes there is therefore a need for access facilities on commercial property amongst businesses. “With this type of facility available property owners will have access to funds at all times and can move quickly on business transactions which often have very short lead times.” “A big advantage for business owners who have access to this type of facility is that one can essentially treat commercial property loans as an access facility.” Palmer says that besides the flexibility to move quickly with transactions, access facilities also allow property owners to invest additional cash surpluses into the loan thereby saving on the higher interest with the ability to get access to the capital when the need arises. “In today’s quick moving business environment it is increasingly necessary to have this type of access to funds available, and business owners can stand to benefit greatly from the various advantages. Paragon has been offering access facilities on commercial property for a number of years and our clients find huge benefit with this product,” concludes Palmer. Enquiry no: 39

January / February 2014

EC Industrial & Business News

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Keeping regulators at bay: New accumulator testing facility H ytec Fluid Technology (HFT), a member of the Hytec Group of Companies and SA’s largest supplier of fluid management technology, has recently launched an accumulator certification centre utilising a new test bench in order for its clients to comply with three governing regulations in accumulator usage. According to the Occupational Health and Safety Act – Pressure Equipment Regulations, SANS 347, Categorisation and Conformity assessment criteria for all pressure equipment as well as the Mine Health and Safety Act, all accumulator owners are required by law to have all accumulator equipment, whether designed and manufactured in South Africa

or imported, to be conformity assessed, pressure tested and certified, including the vessel and all appurtenances in order to uphold high safety and operational standards. “We saw that our customers needed to have a reliable accumulator test facility that would not only comply with the stringent regulations, but also give certification of manufacture including a verification signature by an Approved Inspection Authority, both new and in-service, that they are required to own,” says Sandor Bottyan, General Manager, Hytec Fluid Technology. HFT contracted its sister company, automation solutions provider, Tectra Automation, to supply an accumulator test bench in which

accumulators are subjected to an internal and external inspection and a hydrostatic pressure test. By law, it is required that accumulators are tested every 36 months to 1.25 times its design pressure by an In-Service Approved Inspection Authority. The new facility can currently test, certify and repair up to 50 litre bladder accumulators. Additionally, all accumulators tested at HFT’s testing facility will receive safety instructions including information on mounting, commissioning and maintenance and original manufacturing

records that users are required to keep for the lifetime of the vessel. Enquiry no: 40

Family turn filling station into award-winning business

ith barely two years in operation, the enterprising Mtembu family in the former Transkei has built its Caltex Ulundi Service station into a multi award-winning establishment. Ulundi filling station is located on the R 61 road in Ntlaza about seven kilometres from Libode and about 40 kilometres from Mthatha and 60 kilometres from Port St John’s in the Nyandeni Local Municipality. The business is owned by Nomthandazo Mtembu and her two sons Tukela and Basanda Mtembu. Nomthandazo has over 17 years of experience in the petrol service station business as a franchiser.

After numerous failed applications for finance from other funders, Tukela, 34, says the family was finally able to open operations in February 2012 after receiving an R800 000 loan from the Eastern Cape Development Corporation (ECDC). The funds were used to renovate the existing building, install a security system, and fill tanks, among other things. “With revenue growth of 20% since inception, the petrol station became the overall Eastern Cape winner of the Caltex Five-Star Retailer award in the first few months of operations. The award recognises compliance, commitment, a customer first approach, continual growth as well

SA’s first ‘super-complex’ warehouse at higher levels. “The sheer size of this warehouse can be summed up by looking at the length of picking space, which totals well over two kilometres,” says Albrecht. APC Storage Solutions SA also had to accommodate for the warehouse’s extreme stock turnover rate by arranging the warehouse into a format that ensures maximum operational efficiencies. “Extensive best practice know-how, an indepth understanding of a customer’s business and a long-term partnership with this particular client’s warehousing divisions really helped us ensure product quality and faster delivery,” says Albrecht. Enquiry no: 42

O DR K IN

eading warehouse design, manufacture and installation company, APC Storage Solutions SA, has built what it calls the country’s first ‘super-complex’ warehouse for a leading ingredients and food technology company. The client’s six business units have been brought together into a single warehouse near Polokwane, Limpopo. The warehouse is used to chill, store and distribute light loads to the region’s restaurant, catering and hotel industries, making it relatively different to the larger pallet handling warehouses that are common in the FMCG industry. “Our client’s customers don’t order a lot of stock at one particular time, but they certainly keep them busy with their demands for variety,” says APC’s MD, Fred Albrecht. “This made designing for fine picking and highspeed operation a challenge that we were eager to tackle.” APC Storage Solutions SA came up with the solution to custom-design up to 51 different bay profiles using a mixture of racking types. Each bay is kept to the same depth, but the decking material, level height and even breadth vary throughout the warehouse, making it really good at storing smaller items, larger items and awkwardly shaped items without wasting space. “Smaller picking typically requires a lot more staff, which is challenging if you’re aiming for higher-than-normal density in a warehouse. Normally, fine picking eliminates narrow aisles from becoming viable due to increased activity, but thanks to our exceptionally compact Artix articulated forklift that can operate in aisles as narrow as 1.6 metres, we successfully implemented it throughout the warehouse,” says Albrecht. Providing the client with a 400% expansion, the end result is a 6 000 square metre warehouse with an average pallet density of 1.5 pallets per square metre. The first three levels of each row are reserved for finer picking, while larger bulk-storage pallets are kept

L S AV I N G F

as cleanliness. “Last year we were also awarded the Friendliest Dealer award in the province by suppliers, the depo, Caltex as well as the oil companies. Furthermore, we were second runner-up in the Community Contributor award which is based on employment, and community upliftment.” The business employs nine permanent employees at the gas station as well as two casual workers. “We intend to grow the business further and double our revenues in the new financial year.” The Ulundi filling station site includes a convenience store, supermarket, post office, hardware store, as well as ATM services. Enquiry no: 41

Lifting in Explosive Environments

January / February 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

Tracked loader takes compact to a new level

obcat is synonymous with compact machines that reliably deliver superior performance and the MT55 mini tracked loader is no exception. This powerful, agile, fast and extremely versatile unit delivers numerous cost and time saving benefits which makes it the ideal partner for a wide variety of applications including landscaping, demolition, agriculture, etc. ‘Working smarter and faster is a guaranteed way of achieving the goal of improving productivity,” says Bobcat South Africa’s Key Accounts Manager, Jan Stansfield. “With more than fifteen different attachments, including angle broom, auger, bucket, hydraulic breaker, pallet fork and

tiller, the versatility of the MT55 loader knows no bounds. The unit quickly and easily handles labour and time intensive activities such as digging, trenching, sweeping, moving, and lifting, in less than half the time.” The trencher can dig trenches up to 61cm deep and 10cm to 20cm wide while the hydraulic breaker easily breaks up hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete. “Due to the fact that it is a tracked machine, the resultant low ground pressure minimises damage to lawns and gardens,” adds Stansfield. With a narrow width of only 91 cm, the loader is easily manoeuvrable in tight spaces, both indoors and outdoors, easily passing through a 1 m door width. The unit can even drive

up and down steps. This lightweight unit (1186kg operating weight) is easy to transport on the back of a trailer. Powered by a 17.5 kW liquidcooled diesel engine, the unit boasts a load capacity of 245 kg.

The operator has the option to either walk behind the unit or ride on it. The ride-on platform, available in kit form, can be easily mounted or dismounted in seconds. The standing surface is large for operator comfort, safety and convenience while

a smooth ride is ensured by the pivoting mount with a trailer wheel. The drive and steering controls are adjustable in terms of height and tilting to suit individual operator preference. Enquiry no: 43

Beating corrosion in wastewater industry

hen wastewater travels through sewer lines, it can become anaerobic or septic as a result of the metabolic processes of microbes commonly found in the wastewater. Under anaerobic conditions,

specific sulphate-reducing bacteria thrive and generate hydrogen sulphide (H2S) as a byproduct of their respiration. H2S has a low solubility in wastewater and when it escapes from the wastewater and moves into the air, it is easily recognised by its characteristic offensive, rotten egg odour. It can also be responsible for severe corrosion problems and toxic conditions within wastewater conveyance and treatment facilities. “Andrew Mentis has developed a range of corrosion-resistant floor grating and handrailing in galvanised, 304 stainless steel and 3CR12 options that are ideally suited to the extreme conditions found in wastewater treatment plants. All products in these ranges are designed and engineered to suit situations where the strength to weight ratio is important, such as wastewater treatment plants,” Elaine van Rooyen, marketing manager of Andrew Mentis, points out. “The water and wastewater industry encompasses the mechanical and chemical processes used to remove pollutants from wastewater, for reuse in the environment. These processes can create a slippery environment for operators and techni-

cians, with vapours, water and chemicals creating slick underfoot and handhold conditions near large machinery and tanks,” van Rooyen explains. Weakened handrailings and floor gratings, caused by corrosion and damp, can result in slips, trips or falls. In addition, due to the fact that broken handrailing or floor grating needs to be replaced, downtime is incurred, which negatively impacts on productivity. Galvanising or using stainless in a wastewater treatment plant is not only a safe and cost effective option, but it does not compromise the aesthetics of the environment. Andrew Mentis’ Rectagrid RS40 floor grating is manufactured using a pressure locking system pioneered by the company. The locking characteristics guarantee the structural integrity of the product and further enhance its integrity in a corrosive environment. Enquiry no: 44

Bowl-less efficiencies

roviding excellent particulate and water P removal features in a simplified design, Caterpillar’s new Cat Advanced Efficiency

fuel/water separators (FWS’s) have the same fit and equivalent performance of previous generation FWS products, with one big exception: the detachable water collection bowl has been replaced with a drain valve for easy servicing. The one-piece stepped metal canister design isolates the collected water from the filter element. (Every new FWS element comes with a drain plug.) Rigorously field tested, Cat FWS’s remove more than 98% of debris 10 microns and larger, virtually eliminate free water in fuel, and remove 87% of dissolved water. “Left unchecked, water contamination presents a major threat to mechanical health,” explains Barloworld Equipment group product specialist, Reuben Phasha. “Diesel, for example, acts as a lubricant in unit injectors. Here the fuel’s film strength prevents metal-to-metal contact between the plunger and the barrel.” If water ingress were to occur, this could compromise film strength, resulting in scuffing and eventual seizure. “Un-dissolved water quantities greater than 0,1% can cause major damage,” he points out. As a routine maintenance practice, FWS units should be inspected daily for water and drained as needed, to ensure consistently clean, dry fuel. Enquiry no: 45

January / February 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

Removing waste from water

ater Purification Chemicals & Plant – WPCP – multidisciplinary water treatment specialists, manufactures a range of pressure filters, designed for the removal of suspended solids and other impurities from water and wastewater in industrial and municipal water treatment programmes. “WPCP’s single and dual media pressure filters are used for the removal of colour and suspended solids, to ensure water is efficiently purified for human consumption, generally down to a turbidity level of less than 0.5 NTU, or, effluent disposal with suspended solids (SS) removal down to less than 0.1 PPM,” says Martin Overy, WPCP’s managing director. “These pressure filters efficiently remove materials like iron, manganese, colloids and other precipitates in ground or surface water. Even at fairly high filtration rates - more than 10 m/hr - our pressure filters ensure water purification meets the stringent requirements of SANS 241 Class 0, or any SS specification for waste and industrial applications.” WPCP DW 6 pressure filters are available in standard sizes, with diameters between 700 mm and 2.7 M. Other configurations and sizes can be custom designed to meet specific requirements, including water quality and footprint specifications, as well as backwash and flow requirements.

These pressure filters are available with a manual or automatic operating principle, where the incoming flocculated and settled raw water is pumped or gravity fed over the filtration media, where the science of filtration takes place. The general assumption is that dirt and suspended solids are trapped in the space between the media - usually sand. But what actually happens, is the smaller dirt particles are attracted to the larger sand particles by Van der Wahl’s forces, resulting in very clear water, down to less than 0.5 NTU, if operated and backwashed properly. WPCP’s pressure filters, with a maximum pressure of 400 Kpa, are manufactured from robust materials, including glass reinforced plastic (GRP) and steel. To ensure resistance

to corrosion, the internal lining consists of a twin pack of solvent-free epoxy product, to 300 – 400 micron. The external coating is a twin pack polyurethane material up to 1 500 micron. The dirt load capacity of these filters ranges from 3 - 6 kg SS per m³ of filtration media. The backwash system or regime usually consists of air, then air and water, then water only, with a final water backwash rate of 25 30 m/hr. The pressure filter selected for each specific application determines the under drain or filter nozzles

design. WPCP filter beds are designed for a high solids holding capacity which results in extended filter service life and reduced backwash requirements. Single media filtration systems generally have a layer of 0.95 mm Silica sand (800 – 1 000 mm bed depth) or dual media systems, with a top layer of Hydroanthrazit (300 - 400 mm) and a bottom layer of Silica sand (600 mm or 800 mm). These pressure filters are enhanced by air blowers, piping and valves, as well as a full set of instrumentation. The latest filtration systems are operated using a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) and SCADA system for optimum efficiency. Enquiry no: 46

Crate washing program

w a t e r detergent wash followed by a rinse. Branson Chemicals has developed Ultrasol and Rinse Dry which is an

Motor protection relay

advanced program specifically formulated for use in plastic crate washing machines, ultrasonic baths or spray cabinets. Ultrasol easily removes baked or encrusted dirt and food soils at low concentrations without damaging the plastic or the decorative printing on the crates. The injection of Rinse Dry into the final rinse leaves an antistatic film on the surface that discourages soil re-deposition and helps dry the crates quickly. The concentration of Ultrasol can be automatically controlled and monitored by using the appropriate Branson electronic controller. Enquiry no: 47

THE LEADERS IN STORAGE AND MATERIALS HANDLING SOLUTIONS

short circuit condition occurs when the insulation between the phase conductors fails and the load current level exceeds the normal locked rotor current levels that the motor would draw during start-up. The fault level of the motor feeder supply determines the current level during a short circuit and will be as high as 15 x to 50 x the motor full load current value. A short circuit fault is a system level fault, which means that it will compromise the stability of the entire network and it will result in total power loss to healthy drives and shut down the entire process. The MCCB is a maintenance specific item that can still appear to be functional but may not be, and will result in a catastrophic failure on the next fault clearance. NewElec’s MA motor protection relay is able to protect against thermal overloads, locked rotor and running stall / jam protection. The MA also protects against short circuit faults and automatically takes care of trip co-ordination so that the main contactor is not used to disrupt high-energy faults. Additional MA features include real time and date stamping recorded by the relay for the last four trips, a recording utility of actual RMS loads, thermal conditioning, mains phase voltage, line voltage, as well as status of digital inputs and output contacts. The user has the possibility of expanding the unit for fieldbus communications via Profibus DP, Modbus Enquiry no: 48 RTU and Canbus protocols.

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• Pallet racking • Light duty racking • Fencing • Mezzanine ﬂoors • Conveyor systems • Vertical storage solutions • Linbins • Containers • Workbenches • Lockers • Cabinets • Shelving • Bulk storage • Trolleys & Ladders • Flooring & Matting • Drum storage • Pallets • Lifting equipment • Safety & Security equipment • Medical equipment • Refuse containers • Ofﬁce equipment • Washroom products • Cleaning products

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ncreasingly, plastic crates are used to receive, store and transport raw products from farms to plants and from the food and beverage processing plants to supermarkets. Small volumes of crates can be cleaned by hand scrubbing or via a hand held pressure washer. However, the plastic crates are difficult to clean properly as they are antistatic which tends to attract dust and dirt. Also food and beverage breakages and spillages tend to dry on the crates which can be difficult to remove. The most practical method is by using a crate washer which subjects the crates to an extended hot

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January / February 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Exchangeable tip drill range

andvik Coromant has extendS ed its innovative CoroDrill 870 range of exchangeable tip drills to include new pilot-hole geometry. In addition, a new tip has been introduced for producing chamfered holes in a single operation. New -GP pilot-hole geometry for steel and cast iron workpieces results in an even more secure drilling process for deeper holes, while both -PM 4234 tips for steel and -KM 3234 for cast iron are also now available for smaller diameter holes. The -GP geometry allows CoroDrill 870 users to achieve improved centring when making pilot holes prior to deploying drills up to 8xD in length. Featuring optimised point angle and diameter tolerance, the design enables

a smooth and secure drill entry into the pilot hole and generates excellent performance and hole quality. Available in grade GC4234 for both steel (ISO P) and cast iron (ISO K) applications, -GP geometries are stocked as standard for common sizes. As a range, CoroDrill 870 is now available in diameters from 10.00 to 26.65 mm, to meet H9-H10 tolerances. Lower machine cost per hole or tool/insert cost per hole is achievable using CoroDrill 870 thanks to a host of benefits that include long tool life and high penetration rates. Furthermore, chip evacuation is facilitated by optimised drill flute shape, size and helix angle, while easy handling and secure tip changing is assured. In fact, it is even possible to change the tip while the tool is in the machine, thus minimising downtime. Enquiry no: 49

EC Industrial & Business News

New approach to tank cleaning

utomated tank cleaning has become widely accepted as processors search for ways to ensure tank cleanliness, lower operating costs and reduce cleaning time so tanks may be returned to service more quickly. Equipment options include spray balls and nozzles, motorized tank cleaners and fluid-driven tank cleaning machines. Choosing the best tank cleaning equipment can be challenging for many manufacturers due to the number of products available and the fact that performance is highly dependent on operating conditions. Tank cleaning equipment suppliers have historically provided impact data to help guide product selection decisions. Impact level is a good indicator of the cleaning force of a tank cleaner. However, relying only on impact data to make a product selection can be risky. A new way to determine tank cleaner performance has been introduced recently. This new approach involves calcu-

lating a Cleaning Power Factor (CPF). CPF is based on an analysis of a variety of factors and specific operating conditions. CPF is then used to compare products and determine which is best for a particular operation. Using CPF is an easy way to compare the performance of different types of nozzles and tank cleaners when cleaning a tank of a certain size at specific pressures and flow rates. CPF can also play an important role during scale up. Let’s say a manufacturer is using rotary tank cleaning nozzles with a CPF of 42 to remove paint from 3m diameter tanks. New 10m diameter paint tanks are then added to the operation. The rotary tank cleaning nozzles being used to clean the smaller tanks are not capable of cleaning the larger tanks. However, equipped with the knowledge that a tank cleaner with a CPF of 42 will provide effective cleaning, the manufacturer can quickly

identify a different tank cleaning product that will provide comparable performance. CPF can also play a role in tank cleaning optimization. For example, a motorized tank cleaner operating at 35 bar with a flow rate of 75 l/min is effectively removing a very sticky residue from tanks that are 6 m tall and 3m in diameter. Cleaning time is 90 minutes consisting of six, 15 minute cycles. However, the manufacturer needs to increase production and wants to minimize the amount of time tanks are out of service for cleaning. CPF can be used to identify a comparable product that can achieve the required level of cleaning but in less time. In this case, the solution is a fluid-driven tank cleaner operating at 7 bar and a flow rate of 360 l/min. CPF of the fluiddriven tank cleaner is twice as high as the motor-driven unit and cleaning time can be reduced from 90 minutes to 15 minutes. Enquiry no: 50

Corrosion-resistant, easy-to-clean cylinders

esto, a global automation solutions provider, has refined its range of pneumatic components to improve hygiene within food and beverage processing. Corrosion-resistant materials and the addition of the self-adjusting cylindercushioning PPS – which eliminates the need for a food-trapping adjustment screw – have made the Festo food and beverage industry cylinders easier to clean and improve pneumatic operation in harsh environments at the same time. In addition to the easier to clean and corrosion-resistant design, the Festo

range of Clean Design cylinder’s sealing materials and lubricating greases have FDA approval for use with food. A modular sealing system also means the right seal for every application: FDAcompliant seals offer a longer service life, while grease-free operation makes them suitable for a wide range of temperatures – up to 120 °C and down to -40 °C. Festo supports its series of products for the food, beverage and packaging

industries with a range of easy-toclean accessories. For example, the cylinder sensor SMT-C1 is resistant to cleaning agents, heat and mould, and can be mounted directly on both the DGRF and DSBF cylinders, using the sensor rail. The tubing and fitting combination, PLN and NPQP, can be assembled quickly and easily and ensures longterm trouble-free operation, even in corrosive environments that are subject to intensive cleaning. Additionally, the fitting NPQP is a practical alternative to costly stainless-steel fittings. In conditions where additional protection is required, a pre-assembled system can be supplied in a customEnquiry no: 51 ised control panel.

Oxy-acetylene kits a hit

he heavy industrial market is recogT nising the value of the Afrox Service Level Agreement (SLA) attached to

its Afrox BlueBox and Afrox RedBox heavy duty oxy-acetylene kits. “Beyond being premium ISO/ SANS approved equipment that has been specifically packaged to perform in rugged working environments such as mining, construction, shipbuilding, quarrying, scrap handling and heavy fabrication,” says Afrox’s Lourens le Roux. “Under the SLA, each kit and each item of equipment it contains bear a dedicated serial number to ensure traceability and user accountability, minimising equipment abuse, loss and theft. The serial number is logged onto an Afrox database to ensure timeous servicing and replacement of elements, as well as to log equipment abuse and frequency of use. “At pre-determined intervals agreed with the customer, trained Afrox technical personnel service the equipment in the kit to an ‘as new’

Enabling efficiency, from delivery to dispatch Achieve greater storage densities in your warehouse with our range of world-leading storage solutions, including: racking, shelving, mezzanines and automation. Our automated solutions comprise vertical lift modules, stacker cranes, conveyors, satellite mole racking and management software systems designed to dramatically improve the efficiency of storing and handling of all types of goods. We custom-design your storage solution according to product profile, volumes and operational flow, ensuring optimised warehouse efficiency.

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status and replace any missing items. The kit is returned to the customer complete with a certificate confirming that all equipment complies with the required industry standards. The customer has peace of mind knowing that this safety critical equipment is always in a good condition.” Each complete cutting set is contained in a durable and robust plastic box. The Afrox BlueBox contains selected elements of Afrox’s popular Saffire Legend 916 range of heavy duty cutting equipment, torches and regulators including an acetylene cutting torch capable of cutting up to 450 mm plate with an 8F cutting tip. The Afrox RedBox comprises gas equipment selected from other areas of Afrox’s Saffire gas equipment series, with 3/8” outlet connectors and fittings. This set features the Saffire universal torch capable of cutting up to 300 mm thick steel with a 3,2 Anm6 cutting nozzle, as well as SANS 2503 approved Saffire multi-stage regulators, incorporating “set and forget” technology that delivers conEnquiry no: 52 stant pressure.

January / February 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

EC Industrial & Business News

Innovations for 2014

he Doosan range of earthmoving equipment, which is manufactured in South Korea, encompasses track, wheel and mini excavators, articulated dump trucks (ADT’s), as well as wheel loaders and various attachments. “What keeps Doosan ahead in Southern Africa’s highly competitive earthmoving sector, is the company’s commitment to ongoing research and product development. This forms part of the company’s strategy to meet exact requirements in Africa’s harsh operating conditions,” says Rod Watson, managing director, DISA Equipment (Pty) Limited, trading as Doosan, part of Invicta Holdings Limited. “Doosan’s robust machines, which are designed to cope efficiently and safely in arduous environments, require minimal maintenance and offer extended service life. “Reflecting back on 2013, where market conditions in mining, civil engineering and construction remained relatively flat, we have seen positive market reception locally of new Doosan machines. “The successful launch in 2013 of new ADT’s – DA30 and DA40 units and DL wheel loaders, will be supported with the introduction of the DX220A excavator into the 20 ton class. “In spite of the current sluggish

market, we are cautiously optimistic about a turnaround in the economy in the new year. We hope market conditions will improve just before the election, which is why we will continue to extend our range of construction and heavy earthmoving equipment to cope with more buoyant conditions in 2014.” With the launch of the new DA30 and DA40 ADT’s, Doosan is now able to offer a complete solution for equipment required to excavate, load and transport all types of materials, in any conditions. The new Doosan DA30 and DA40 ADT’s, which have been designed for safe and efficient operation in

tough conditions, have a higher load capacity than previous models and offer enhanced power and performance, easier operation, increased fuel efficiency, greater driver comfort and faster travel speeds. The 5-cylinder Tier 2 diesel engine of the DA30 series offers a gross power output of 276 kW, which is an 8% increase in engine power compared with the previous MT31 series. The DA30 also has 30% more gross torque ( 1 873 Nm at 1 300 rpm) to produce the powerful rim pull required to efficiently cope in extreme hauling conditions. In the DA40 series, the 6-cylinder Tier 2 diesel engine offers a gross power output of 368 kW, which is more powerful than previous units. Doosan has also recently launched a new range of robust wheel loaders. The new DLA wheel loader series, efficiently handles the loading and transporting of granular materials and the handling of bulk loads in industrial, construction, mining and quarrying environments. Doosan DL250A, DL300A and DL420A wheel loaders have new features for optimum efficiency, improved operator comfort and control, low maintenance requirements and greater durability.

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NEWS

Features to look out for in the March/ April 2014 issue • • • •

Agriculture Food & Beverage Hydraulics & Pneumatics Instrumentation, Measurement & Control • Pumps, Valves, Pipes & Fittings For all editorial contributions contact Chantal Haines For advertising Cheryl Murphy Tel: 0861 122 441 Email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za

Enquiry no: 53

High-alumina ceramic nozzles

he high costs associated with wear and chemical corrosion of industrial equipment are apparent in decreased productivity and increased maintenance. In particular, nozzles used within the industrial sector are exposed to gases or liquids and solutions, which are corrosive and abrasive. The need to counteract these effects led to the development of ceramic nozzles. Stephen Jackson, marketing manager of Multotec Wear Linings, points out that the use of ceramics in harsh environments is not endemic to the industrial sector. “If you consider that NASA uses ceramics to protect the Space Shuttle from the searing temperatures on re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere, as well as the fact that ceramics are used in some bullet proof vests, it then makes perfect sense that they are also used in industry.” Multotec Wear Linings has adopted

the technology for use in a range of tailor-made high-alumina ceramic nozzles, which offer considerably extended wear life in harsh spraying applications. “We have used these nozzles to replace stainless steel, cast iron and even silicon carbide nozzles,” he continues. The company has successfully installed its ceramic nozzles in a number of demanding industrial applications. Jackson cites the example of the application where a wet scrubber spray nozzle is used for particulate removal in emissions. “The spraying is undertaken at temperatures of almost 500°C, whereby the emissions are sprayed with either plain water or slurry usually composed of water, limestone and sand. We have had extremely positive feedback from the customer who says that the use of the ceramic nozzles has resulted in cost savings on labour and plant downtime.”

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High-alumina ceramics are extremely hard, rated on the MOH hardness scale at 9, which is just below the hardness of diamonds, at 10. “Ceramic is a stable oxide and not subject to oxide deterioration like most metals. It is also able to withstand high temperatures. Tests show that at extreme temperatures of 1100°C it is able to retain approximately 50% of its room temperature tensile strength and dimensional stability,” Jackson explains. Enquiry no: 54

Productivity Centre

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: _____________________________________

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What the Productivity centre offers you our clients: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Complete Turnkey Solutions Machine Economics Material Training Basic Machining Training Advance Machining Training HSM (High Speed Machining) Specialised Coromant Tooling systems for new machine investments 3D Modelling CNC Programming 5-axis Milling - DMU80T CNC Turning - MAZAK Integrex 200-IV S Hosting of special events throughout the year, to ensure our clients are continuously kept up to date with the latest products and the latest technology.

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EC Industrial & Business News

Spares contract for giant pumps

he Government of Iraq has ordered spares worth R5-million for five superpumps it bought from a South African engineering company eight years ago. Designed and manufactured by Wadevillebased APE Pumps in 2005, each of the giant 1600mm single-stage vertical turbine machines weighed 17 tons as it left the Wadeville factory, and 36 tons after fitting with a 1300kW electric motor. With duties of 4000 litres per second at heads of 20 metres, these pumps remain the biggest that APE Pumps has yet built. All five were installed during refurbishment of a pump house at a dam 200 kilometres north of Basra in south-east Iraq, where they have run faultlessly for eight years.

January / February 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

One of the constraints overcome by APE’s engineers during design of the original machines was the need to fit the pumps within existing sumps, and align the units to existing pipework. Fabrication was altered to meet this requirement, and special bases constructed to fit existing foundations The pumps were made of standard materials throughout, with cast iron bowls and stainless steel shafts and impellers. Commenting late last year on the spares order, APE Pumps director Alan Sternsdorf said that the eight-year period over which the pumps had been running was testament to their reliability, as the water from the river contained a lot of sand and other impurities.

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M “We will present the spares for inspection by an independent third party for verification as OEM parts. Authorities from the Iraqi embassy in Pretoria will attend this inspection, on completion of which the shipment will leave by road for the port of Durban,” he said. Enquiry no: 55

Industry bearing up

MG – Bearing Man Group – has secured the distribution and service agreements with some of the world’s most respected manufacturers of bearings. Included in this range are Timken bearings, which encompass all bearing types, including standard anti-friction bearing configurations and advanced products, like housed units, integrated bearing assemblies, precision assemblies and aerospace bearings. “BMG’s portfolio of Timken housed units are designed for reliable sealing, ensuring enhanced bearing protection in harsh operating conditions, including debris-filled, contaminated or high moisture environments,” says Rouff Essop, general manager, bearings division, BMG. “The robust housed series includes pillow, plummer and solid block housing units. “Timken use the highest quality materials in the manufacture of these units, to meet the stringent requirements for cleanliness, machinability and performance required in demanding operating conditions.” Timken Blue Brute spherical roller bearing solid block housed units are manufactured with cast steel housings that have three times the tensile strength of cast iron housings. This is an important advantage in harsh applications where there are heavy loads and excessive vibration. The robustness of these spherical roller housed units means that the bearing can be replaced into the same housing many times, which offers substantial cost savings. Without a properly aligned shaft, the service life of most housed units is reduced.

However, this series is designed to run efficiently on misaligned shafts up to 1,5°. There are three standard sealing options available in the Timken Blue Brute range teflon labyrinth seals, triple lip nitrile rubber seals and triple lip urethane seals. Teflon seals, which are resistant to abrasives and most chemicals, are designed for high speed, high temperature applications and are particularly suitable for dirty and wet conditions. The teflon seal consists of a teflon ring that floats between two steel plates to ensure highly efficient sealing. The material is impervious to most chemicals and because of its low coefficient of friction, these units have a high speed capability. Triple lip nitrile rubber units have a standard sealing arrangement to offer maximum protection for most conditions, including moisture and dirt. The seal has a light to medium contact pressure, which allows excess grease to purge under the lips, preventing the housing from becoming over packed with grease. Over packing is a common problem which results in the bearing running hot. The steel backing plate of the seal is completely covered in rubber to improve corrosion resistance. External urethane seal covers, with triple lip nitrile contact seals, can be snapped onto locating holes on the face of the housings for extra protection. The cavity between the cover and the housing can be filled with grease to act as a further seal if necessary. Enquiry no: 56

Easy to operate new ultrasonic sensors

ood process reliability and ease of operation G are two important criteria demanded of industrial systems. With the new Ultrasonic Sensor

range, Wenglor Sensoric has succeeded in optimizing both of these requirements. Equipped with simple, clear-cut controls, theses sensors are child’s play to install, configure and operate without neglecting the strict demands placed on secure process sequences. The Ultrasonic Sensors function on the principle whereby pulsed ultrasonic waves are transmitted by the sensors at a certain frequency using air as a transmitting medium, and are reflected back when they strike the object. The sensors then evaluate transit time of the ultrasonic waves. Device parameters are configured directly at the sensor by means of external teach-in or via IO-Link. When previously specified switching points are reached, the outputs are switched. Measured values can be read out as standard voltage or current signals (0 to 10 V or 4 to 20 mA), or in digital format (IO-Link). In addition to ease of use, the Ultrasonic Sensors are above all distinguished by reliable performance in dusty, oily and steamy environments. In order to cover larger surface areas with several sensors, Wenglor offers a synchronous operating mode by means of where pulsed sound waves are emitted simultaneously by all of the Enquiry no: 57 sensors.

Air Liquide - Leading the way in shielding gas innovation

any businesses are missing out on the many advantages of VoIP (Voice over IP) telephony because they believe the cost of having to “scrap” their entire analogue system and start from scratch, is too high. However, says Hennie van Tonder, head of products at MWEB Business, there is absolutely no need for businesses to write off their investment in analogue technology – unless they want to. “Businesses can enter the VoIP arena at any point in their telephony or business lifecycle,” he says. “For example, if a business is opening a new office and has no telephony infrastructure, it makes sound business sense to go the VoIP route immediately as the savings on total infrastructure costs is considerable.” However, if a business already has a full analogue telephony system - complete with an analogue PABX and analogue handsets on the desks - taking advantage of VoIP to reduce external local and international call costs is simple. All that’s required is a special gateway device that links the business’s existing telephone and data (LAN) networks, allowing the business’ voice calls to be carried over the LAN connecting to the internet. “Once the gateway is in place, it’s all systems go. The existing analogue PABX and handsets remain in use. As would be the case with an end-to-end VoIP system that utilises a VoIP PABX and VoIP handsets, the analogue system can easily be connected to the external VoIP service provider over an appropriate connection – leased line, fibre, ADSL, Metro Ethernet and so on,” Van Tonder explains. Having recognised that businesses have different VoIP requirements, MWEB Business has ensured that its MWEB Talk Business offering is sufficiently flexible to make it quick, simple and affordable for any business to utilise VoIP. “MWEB Talk Business takes account of where the business is in its VoIP lifecycle and is able to provide businesses with everything from an end-to-end, turnkey solution to VoIP handsets and PBXs, to VoIP appropriate connectivity,” Van Tonder says. He emphasises that regardless of what type of VoIP a business has internally, the success of the system will ultimately depend on the quality of the connection between the business and the VoIP service provider. “If a business has access to fibre connectivity, then switching to VoIP is really a no-brainer as fibre delivers the speed and consistency a VoIP system requires. “With ADSL, however, things can become a little more complex. At MWEB Business, we strongly recommend that any business considering a VoIP solution invest in nothing less than a 4Mbps connection,” he concludes. Enquiry no: 58

Simply High Performance

AL13938

ARCAL™ NEW GENERATION A premium welding solution developed for quality welding applications.

Air Liquide Southern Africa

Tel: +2711 389 7000, Rolf Schluep (Welding & Cutting Manager) +2711 389 7095 www.airliquide.co.za

There is an Air Liquide solution that is right for you.

SABS-approved pushbutton pilot lights full range of SABSA approved WEG CSW series pushbutton and pilot

lights, incorporating LED technology, is available from the Zest WEG Group at an affordable price. WEG has used its leading edge technology and development capability to design these products, which are all supplied with the industry standard 22 mm mounting hole. The user friendly and durable WEG CSW series pushbutton and pilot lights are used in many industrial applications and environments and are now available in complete sets, for example, pushbuttons complete with auxiliary block. Designed to offer the ruggedness required for harsh industrial applications, these products are IP66 (IEC 60529) rated (totally insulated) and include a complete line of accessories. The ergonomic design of the mounting hole allows for manual tightening of the device, without requiring the use of additional tools, offering a simpler and safer tightening method. The entire series can be quickly mounted with just one “click” and can be disassembled just as easily. Enquiry no: 59