KZN Industrial & Business News - Issue 87

Page 1

ISSN NO: 1562 -5702 Keep

colleagues up to date and pass onto:

June / July 2014

Management 

Engineering/Technical Dept. 

Purchasing Dept

R20.90 (incl. VAT)

KZN PGDP ahead of the game

W Nikolay Ivanov project manager MTG Dolphin shipyard Bulgaria and Ncumisa Nkanunu TNPA Supply Chain General Manager

Durban harbour milestone T ransnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) recently named its new 750m³ grab hopper dredger, Italeni, during a special ceremony hosted by the builders of the dredger, IHC Merwede in the shipyard of its partner, MTG Dolphin, in Varna, Bulgaria. The naming ceremony was performed by TNPA’s Supply Chain General Manager, Ncumisa Nkanunu. The contract for the design, construction and delivery of the grab hopper dredger was signed between TNPA and IHC Global Production, part of IHC Merwede, on 29 January 2013. The keel was laid on 20 August 2013 and the vessel will sail under her own keel to Durban, later

this month. The Italeni has been designed and built to achieve low maintenance costs. The vessel will replace the current grab hopper dredger, CRANE, which was recently equipped with a new grab crane. This new equipment will be transferred to the Italeni after her arrival in South Africa and the vessel will be used mainly for maintenance work in various ports throughout the country. The dredger was named after the battle of Italeni, which took place near the Ithala Mountains where the Zulu King Dingane defeated the Voortrekkers in 1838. Tau Morwe, Chief Executive continued on page two

ith elections out of the an education system that needs way and everyone watch- urgent attention, but Brooks feels ing carefully to see where very strongly that the prospects for to now, it is encouraging to know the province are more than positive. that the Provincial Growth and Based on this initial report and Development Plan (PGDP) as a combined with the knowledge that provincial approach to implement even after 20 years of democthe National Development Plan racy, the full potential of the in Kwazulu-Natal is more province was not being than setting the standard utilized, the KZN Planning for the rest of the country, Commission identified according to Frikkie Brooks, seven goals which are of Head of Secretariat for the primary importance. These KZN Provincial Planning goals are to create jobs by Commission. growing the economy, The initial motivation for develop human resourcthe NDP came from goves, develop communities ernment who were looking by creating better living for a plan from which to lay The plan is fully conditions for all, improve supported by the ground work create real strategic infrastructure, KZN Premier, change in the country, startcreate environmental staing from grass roots level. Senzo Mchunu bility and improve governIt needed to concentrate on ance and policy, which the development of a healthy econo- would include putting an end to fraud my which would create employment. and corruption and finally, achieve The initial step towards creating special equity which entails implethis vision involved extensive con- menting effective planning and land sultation of existing research, result- management systems across the ing in a draft report that was first province. presented to the Cabinet in 2011. Having identified these goals, the From this research it became glar- next step was finding a way to impleingly obvious that, with careful man- ment them, and to secure the buy -in agement, KZN had potential to turn of business, labour and civil society. into a powerhouse province. These goals were then broken As the third smallest province in down into manageable action work the country, KZN currently has the groups each of which is accountable second largest economy. Between under a tight ladder of responsibility Durban and Richards Bay, it also and accountability to ensure comoffers what are currently the two petent action and create more than largest ports in Africa and the com- 2 million jobs in the region by 2030. bination of these two factors, if well Brooks is confident that with this managed, bodes well for the future. long term vision, the programme There are naturally the negative has every chance of succeeding continued on page two aspects of AIDS, which is rife and

Marketing Dept 

Issue no. 87

Inside First units delivered - page 3

Focus on Zululand page 9

Construction, Civil & Structural Engineering - page 10 Environmental Management & Control page 14

Focus on Sugar - page 16 Electrical & Electronics - page 23

Company & Product News - page 27

Don’t go to Mars for space... Speak to the space experts – conveniently located right here on earth.

design: lettie@creatiff.co.za

Krost Shelving & Racking manufactures high quality, innovative and comprehensive racking and shelving solutions at exceptional value. Our experienced consultants will custom design a system to perfectly match your requirements and advise you on achieving a cost effective space solution that will: Maximize utilisation of space, increase productivity and efficiency, enable more effective stock management and improve safety. Racking – Conventional, VNA, Drive-in, Flow Rack, Pushback, Shuttle etc. Shelving – Bolted, Boltless, Library, Gondola (Supermarket). Mezzanine – Structural and Rack Supported. Lockers – Steel, Wire, Plastic etc. Bins – All storage containers.

Branches in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town. For any enquiries, please call +27 031 700 2020 ISO 9001-2008

QUALITY CERTIFIED

SANCERT CERT NO 20120101

Manufactured in South Africa since 1965


June / July 2014

news

2

KZN Industrial & Business News

New R80 million development for Durban

N

edbank Corporate Property Finance is proud to fund a new R80 million development for Durban’s The Lion Match Company, for the development of their new corporate head office and distribution facilities in the Point Waterfront node. The property, comprising just over 10 000m², will be developed through the construction of a three storey mixed use development which includes a distribution warehouse, a retail portion, corporate offices and covered parking. Anand Joseph, Regional Executive Nedbank Corporate Property Finance (NCPF) in KwaZulu Natal, says the Bank’s funding of this project is consistent with its commitment to providing agile commercial property finance solutions which allow clients to realise their property opportunities. The new Lion Match property is located in the Point Waterfront area

of the Durban’s CBD at the corner of Mahatma Ghandi and Signal Roads, and is accessible from all major network routes. “This development is located close to the Durban port hub and is the latest addition to the area that will contribute significantly to the vision of the redevelopment of this node,” says Joseph. According to Joseph, the Point Waterfront area is being transformed

KNOCK THE ‘BAD’ OUT OF BAD DEBT!

from an old established industrial area serving harbour-related industries, to an area which has now been redeveloped into modern mixed-use buildings. “Investment into the area continues to grow, creating a modern mixed-use environment which, over time, will command the value that the Point Waterfront properties demand. The Lion Match Company is a well-established Durbanbased business and has been home to some of South Africa’s favourite brands, from the iconic Lion Safety Matches, to its growing range of personal grooming products. The company has amassed an impressive family of brand names that have become segment contenders and leaders in their own right. Gora Abdoola, Chairman of Lion Match commented, “The Point Waterfront area is becoming a highly sought after area for businesses in KwaZulu Natal and we are pleased to have found a new home for the organisation in this growing area which we believe will aid towards the domestic Enquiry no: 1 economic revival.”

Securing SA’s ports is a matter of priority

P

humuzi Ernest Sigasa has taken up the reigns as the Executive Manager of the newly created Port Security Portfolio at Transnet National Port Authority (TNPA). Created as a department reporting to the office of the Chief Executive, the security portfolio has been disengaged from the operations function of the Authority in order to strengthen its key strategic function. With the majority of South Africa’s import and export goods passing through TNPA’s eight ports, earning revenue that contributes immensely to the country’s economy, it would be “suicidal” to not properly safeguard our

ports, says Sigasa. Looking at the challenges faced in upping the security oversight at TNPA, Sigasa says there needs to be a balance between the commercial needs of ports and security imperatives. Collaboration between TNPA and other vital state security agencies also needs to be properly defined and strengthened. It is important that when planning port expansions a coordinated and integrated approach between TNPA and local and provincial governments is taken, and that security is included in the elementary stage. Enquiry no: 2

KZN NDP strides ahead continued from page one

and should see, as priorities, the development of the Durban – Free State – Gauteng Logistics and Industrial Corridor, the development of the Richards Bay port, the development of the Durban Container Terminal and a number of other province wide changes, such as the development of the Lubombo Transfrontier Park and various agricultural development initiatives across the province. In order to action the DurbanFree State - Gauteng Logistics corridor, Brooks believes that a drive is needed to increase the movement of freight from road to rail , and when asked how this goal tied in with the recent claims by SANRAL that, like Germany, road would take over from rail as the major mode of transport, he commented that

the Planning Commission is “extremely concerned by statements made by SANRAL which are out of line with all discussions and agreements between all parties involved in the Free State, KZN, Gauteng corridor plan”, so it appears that, in spite of a number of obstacles along the way, the Planning Commission is determined to make KZN a prosperous and growing place to be. Brooks strongly believes that “with the political stability in the province and the dedication of the newly elected Premier, Senzo Mchunu, who is in full support of the plan – we just need to pick up the pace”. For detailed information on the Provincial Growth and Development Plan (PGDP) please visit their website on www.kznppc.gov.za Enquiry no: 3

Harbour milestone continued from page one

Isandlwana in 2010. “We are also proud to be building a third vessel for TNPA, a 5,500m3 TSHD. This will be the largest vessel of its kind to operate in South Africa and a sign of our continuing successful cooperation.” “As part of our ongoing commitment to the TNPA, IHC Merwede is glad to be participating in economic developments in South Africa, by implementing a Supplier Development Plan to help improve local industry. This initiative will include the transfer of some of our knowledge and advanced technology to enhance the skills of the workforce within Enquiry no: 4 the region.”

4174 Wetpaint Advertising

Transnet National Ports Authority, said: “Compliant with our strategic objectives, the new dredger will ensure that we have capacity ahead of demand, and provide spare dredging capacity for neighbouring ports. This collaboration is in line with TNPA’s Africa Strategy. ” Fer Tummers, Managing Director of IHC Merwede’s Dredging Division, said: “The Italeni is not the first vessel that IHC Merwede has built for TNPA. IHC Merwede has already proven itself to be a reliable and professional partner with the successful delivery of the trailing suction hopper dredger

P O Box 1322 Wandsbeck 3631 Tel: (031) 266 7511 Fax: (031) 266 7514 Email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za www.mediaevents.co.za

Current economic conditions are hazardous to say the least. The very future of your company and all its stakeholders depends on your customers making good on their payments in full AND on time! But, you don’t need to shoulder that burden alone – you have a ‘Hero’ in Credit Guarantee! We assess the risk, cover the risk and mitigate the risk of nonpayment, in order to back you, both locally and internationally! Your cash flow, profit margin and business future are all in safe hands with us!

Managing Director: Janet Coom Editor: Jacqui Harris - Email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za Sales & Marketing Manager: Cheryl Murphy Email: cheryl@mediaevents.co.za Any news items, press releases, articles and photographs relating to business and industry in KwaZulu-Natal are welcome. All contributions will be considered for publication. Disclaimer: The editor and management of KZN 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. PUBLISHED BY: Hentiq 1910 (Pty) Ltd t/a THE MEDIA & EVENTS CO Reg No. 1999/019445/07 COPYRIGHT: All rights reserved


June /July 2014

news

KZN Industrial & Business News

V

First units delivered

olvo Trucks Southern Africa proudly delivered the first regional units of its new range of trucks to customers in South Africa. In Gauteng, Triton Express Group CEO, Eric Corbishley, was officially handed the keys of the two new trucks by Volvo Group SA president, Torbjörn Christensson, at an event which also had members of the media in attendance. The Westmead Group, based in KwaZuluNatal, took delivery of two new units, making them the first customer in the Eastern Region, to welcome the new Volvo FH to its fleet. The first deliveries to the Western Region are expected within the next couple of weeks. “This is a very significant day for the Volvo Trucks team as it is the culmination of years of planning and hard work,” said Christensson. “And we are very proud to be delivering these first units to some of our most valued customers with whom we have had a very good relationship over a number of years. They both share many of our core values such as environmental care and safety, and we therefore believe these new units will certainly add a lot of value to their business.” Established in 1987, Triton Express is a sophisticated nationwide operation, boast-

E

3

ing the latest in technology and vehicles. Triton Express currently provides express road freight distribution solutions for more than 2 500 customers throughout the region. The company has 13 branches throughout South Africa and six in Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia, Swaziland, Mozambique and Zimbabwe. The family-owned Westmead Group took delivery of a FH 480 HP 6x4 truck-tractor with high chassis height with B-ride. The official handover took place at the company group director, Jay Haripersad’s new hotel in Ballito, The Boathouse. Significantly, The Westmead Group has taken ownership of all three generations of Volvo FH models since Volvo’s inception in South Africa. The Westmead Group was established in 1995 with the main aim of delivering a committed and reliable transport service to customers in the logistics industry. The Group currently employs more than 250 people and has offices in Durban and Johannesburg. Going into the future, Westmead’s entire fleet will boast new branding on its vehicles, as with the new Volvo FH introduced this week. The new FH Series, from the ground up, is loaded with innovative features and was purposefully designed with the driver in mind,

providing them with a comfortable, profitable and safe ride. With its new Volvo FH series, Volvo Trucks is pushing the envelope of what a premium truck can offer. This includes maximum uptime, leading fuel economy, reliability, ergonomics, superior handling, active and passive safety, as well as a range of time-saving features. Volvo’s FH range is the champion on the long routes when it comes to performance, comfort and fuel efficiency. The diesel engines also deliver immense pulling power, and with higher torque it is possible – without raising engine revs – to fit faster rear axle ratios, which helps lower fuel consumption even further. All the models on the FH range utilise Volvo’s I-Shift 12-speed automated mechanical gearbox without a clutch pedal. This system has set a new standard when it comes to comfort and fuel economy. It’s as convenient as an automatic transmission and as closeratio as a manual gearbox. The Volvo FH has been Volvo Trucks’ flagship model for almost 20 years. Since the launch of a new version of the Volvo FH in Europe in 2012, more than 25 00 units have already been sold in that region. Enquiry no: 5

Torbjörn Christensson, Volvo Group SA President congratulates Vishal and Jay Haripersadh, both, Westmead Group on their purchase

Group diversifies with new tissue plant

ver expanding and diversifying printing company, the Paarl Media Group has acquired a tissue plant in KwaZulu-Natal. As of 1 June 2014, the Group acquired Correll Tissue (Pty) Ltd with unconditional approval received from the Competition Commission. The entity will be Paarl Tissue (Pty) Ltd trading as Correll Tissue. This acquisition marks the Group’s exploration of extending its value chain and broadening appeal to a new and existing customer base. Established in 2000, Correll Tissue reinvented itself in 2012 when it installed the de-inking and hot disperger unit. This resulted in Correll

Tissue being the only independent mill in South Africa to generate a product range that matches the quality of other market leaders. The acquisition allows the Group to expand its manufacturing operations in the paper industry by harnessing the potential of waste paper – currently produced by the extensive printing operations of the Group – in the production of tissue paper. This vertical integration will result in significant value-add to the manufacturing processes by effective utilisation of waste paper generated by the printing operations. As a business that holds sustainable print-

ing practices in high regard, this acquisition will therefore lead to synergies being unlocked between printing operations and Correll Tissue. The plant is currently located in Phoenix Industrial Park, nearby King Shaka International Airport and the Port of Durban. The plant’s capacity is sufficient to convert all output produced by the tissue mill. Investment in recycling processes has resulted in 90% of the plant’s water requirements being reprocessed. “Aaron Ganesh (pictured) will head Correll Tissue as Managing Director. As the previous MD of Paarl Media KZN, Aaron’s know-how, experience in manufacturing and leadership will steer the way forward with the Group diversifying its offering,” says Stephen van Der Walt, CEO, Paarl Media Group.

“Correll Tissue’s competitive edge lies in providing the needs of discerning consumers who seek branded products of consistent quality at competitive market prices. The main product lines comprises of double and single ply virgin toilet rolls, single ply recycled toilet rolls, facial tissues, kitchen towels, serviettes, garage wipes and jumbo tissue wadding,” says Aaron Ganesh. “We are excited about the future possibilities of this tissue manufacturing facility together with the combined offerings of the Group. Our aim is to continue to deliver exceptional quality branded products utilising the best available technology in cost-effective formats for an increasing consumer market,” concludes van Enquiry no: 6 Der Walt.

Brakes should stop your forklift... not production. The most robust and durable forklifts to handle the toughest tasks in the most demanding applications with speed, power and efficiency.

EXCLUSIVE LIFETIME GUARANTEE on its world famous oil-cooled disc brakes (ODB). The ODB system is enclosed, eliminating outside contamination, significantly increasing the efficiency of the forklift.

usted Years of Tr tions Equipment Solu

World-class products backed by world-class support. It just makes sense... Branches in: Johannesburg (Head office), Durban, Cape Town & Port Elizabeth Tel: 010 594 4338 • lifttrucks@goscor.co.za www.goscorlifttrucks.co.za A proud member of the Goscor Group of Companies

Linvar_135x200 ad.indd 1

2014/05/13 11:16 AM


June / July 2014

news

4

W

ith Alstom, China South Rail (CSR) Zhuzhou and China North Rail (CNR) - all of which having been awarded the lion’s share of the massive R100 billion upgrade programmes of Transnet and the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (PRASA) - stipulating that South African fabricators must comply with EN 15085 in order to sub-contract to them, local companies ignore EN 15085 certification at their peril. This is the view of the Southern African Institute of Welding’s (SAIW) general manager operations Sean Blake. “The problem is that many fabricators feel that because they are ISO 3834 certified and that there are many similarities between it and EN 15085, there is no need for specific EN 15085 certification. This is not the case and our fabricators, if they want to make the most out of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, must not make this mistake,” he says. While it is true that EN 15085 is closely aligned to ISO 3834, which defines comprehen-

KZN Industrial & Business News

Ignore EN15085 at your peril

sive quality requirements for fusion welding of metallic materials both in workshops and in the field, it must be understood that EN 15085 is a product-specific standard for the construction, manufacturing and testing of welded rail vehicles and their components and Alstom’s, CSR’s and CNR’s requirement is that South African companies which will work as its subcontractors must be certified accordingly. Both the Transnet and PRASA contracts have a stringent local manufacture stipulation (60%-70% for the passenger coaches; 55% for the diesel locomotives and 60% for the electric locomotives) affording local fabricators one of the biggest opportunities in South African industrial history. But Blake reiterates that all parties will insist that local fabricators are EN 15085 certified. “For the Chinese this has a special significance

as Transnet initially came under fire for ignoring rumours of dubious quality with respect to the Chinese tender winners who will go to great lengths to ensure that their quality is nothing short of world class,” Blake says. One of the main quality control measures will be EN 15085, which is an important standard in both Europe and China with a total of 931 manufacturers having been certified in Germany and 360 in China. “These are indeed significant numbers in this limited fabrication sector and South African fabricators should take heed of them,” says Blake. SAIW executive director, Jim Guild, concurs that any fabricator serious about being part of these initiatives will have to be EN 15085 certified and that the Institute is doing what it can to facilitate local certification “We have been talking to EN 15085 experts worldwide in our pur-

suit of making the process as easy as possible for local fabricators and we are establishing a cooperative relationship with DVS in Germany which will ensure manufacturers have access to both preparatory advice and EN certification. I urge all those interested to watch the SAIW press and website over the next few months for details,” he concluded.

Enquiry no: 7

New assembly investment

T

he investment of R55-million in a new truck plant for Hino trucks on Toyota SA’s extensive manufacturing site in Prospecton, near Durban, is confirmation of the importance of these large commercial vehicles to the country’s leading motor manufacturer. This was the message from president and CEO Dr Johan van Zyl when he addressed a large group of dealers, customers and media representatives at the new plant at the end of May. This latest investment in the truck plant is only part of recent investment in local production, with more than R1-billion having been spent on production facilities in Prospecton over the past couple of years. “Hino is a strong brand with great global success and in South Africa the truck segment of the market is seen as a good growth opportunity, both in the domestic and export markets.” “As a group company, Toyota is committed to the Hino brand and this investment underlines just how serious we are about trucking - as per the Hino brand campaign launched in 2013 and we will Keep on Trucking,” explained Dr. Van Zyl The new assembly plant currently has an annual production capacity of 5 000 units on a single shift and this can be increased significantly as demand grows. The number of people employed at this plant and its related

support functions currently stands at over 160 team members. The move to the new facility took place during shutdown at the end of last year and enabled the implementation of a new assembly principle called the Jundate Principle. This allows for sub components to be assembled away from the main assembly line. Once these parts are assembled they are delivered in sequence to the line JIT (just in time) to be fitted to the unit on line with benefits in terms of both productivity and quality. At present the trucks produced here - all the Hino models as well as Toyota Dyna - are for the domestic market and neighbouring countries only. Hino trucks for other markets in Africa are imported from Japan, with many passing through South Africa to have bodies and special equipment fitted. A switch to local production for some of these export markets could occur in the future. Domestically, Hino has made a good start to the year in the local market with total sales of 1 126 medium, heavy and extra-heavy trucks in the first four months of 2014. This equates to second place in the rankings of local truck manufacturers and distributors and Hino retained its No. 1 position in the medium commercial vehicle segment with Dyna and Hino 300. More than 130 000 Hino and Dyna trucks have been sold in SA to date, giving Hino one of the largest truck parcs in the country. Enquiry no: 8

HR insights for sucessful growth

F

MCG giant Unilever places high emphasis on its people and is investing significantly towards developing employees as individuals and as teams while collectively creating a winning formula for the success of the business. Speaking at the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) Human Resources(HR) Forum, Unilever’s Vice President for Human Resources, Antoinette Irvine (pictured) gave an audience of HR professionals an insight on some of the factors that contribute to making Unilever one of the most sought after and compelling companies to work for in South Africa and the world over. “Our recruitment and retention practices at Unilever are selective

Oil and gas Component solutions www.sandvik.coromant.com/oilandgas 64 Jet Park Road, Jet Park | PO Box 25038, East Rand, 1462 Branches: Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, Vaal Triangle Direct Sales: 0860 101 008 Fax: 0860 101 006

Automated time clocking reduces payroll fraud, improves accuracy & can provide employee-specific, area-specific security.

O&G_100x150.indd 1

Fingerprint & Face ID terminals are inexpensive and easy to use in commercial applications.

company’s Sustainable Living Plan which was launched in 2010. Through this plan, Unilever has set high ambitions of doubling the size of the business whilst halving the environmental impact by 2020. According to Irvine, this can only be achieved through the company’s “Winning with People” formula which incorporates diversity, leadership, talent and capability. “Building the organisation through a diverse talent pipeline ready to match these growth ambitions is a key success factor,” she said.

Enquiry no: 9

Leaders in automated Time & Attendance and Access Control Solutions

2014-05-29 14:45:17

HAND SCANNERS

FINGERPRINT ID

Hand geometry terminals scan accurately despite dirty, painted or damaged fingertips in industry RFID terminals and electronic timeclocks are practical and hygenic.

and uncompromising. We hand pick and develop the world’s finest talent and leaders to help deliver on the company’s strategy to make sustainable living commonplace.” “What earns Unilever the reputation as one of the most attractive employers on the continent is the organisation’s structure and culture, which creates an enabling environment for people with a winning mindset, a passion for consumers and an appetite to drive personal performance,” said Irvine. Unilever South Africa was awarded the No1 Employer in South Africa; No 1 employer in the FMCG sector; and No 1 employer in the Manufacturing sector for 2013 by the internationally renowned Top Employers Institute. These awards resonate with the

FACE ID SCANNERS

Tel: (031) 265 0659 5 The Boulevard Westway Office Park Westville

RFID SCANNERS

uniclox Authorized Allegion Distributor

ELECTRONIC TIMECLOCKS

Technologies www.uniclox.com

Sales & Support offices in Cape Town, Durban, East London, Johannesburg & Port Elizabeth


June /July 2014

COMPANY PROFILE: SBS WATER SYSTEMS

KZN Industrial & Business News

5

5326

mining fire protection municipal water conservation food & beverage Proud members of:

Tanks

TM

A premium product made by SBS Water Systems (Pty) Ltd TM

P ower P erformance P roductivity

Established in 1998, SBS™ Water Systems (Pty) Ltd is a Proudly South African, Level 2 BBBEE company specialising in liquid storage solu�ons. SBS™ is managed by its three original shareholders and operates from its head office in Maxmead, KwaZulu‐Natal. The company has a regional office in Gauteng and a na�onal and interna�onal network of competent distributors. SBS™ employs over 56 dedicated and efficient staff, making it well posi�oned to maximise its contribu�on to the water storage industry. SBS™ Water Systems (Pty) Ltd announced the launch of their Proudly South African SBS Tanks™ product range in March 2013 and has since soared to new heights. The level two BBBEE business is well established within the Mining, Fire Protec�on, Municipal, Water Conserva�on and Food and Beverage Industry as a preferred manufacturer, supplier & installer of liquid storage tanks. Using advanced design facili�es and in collabora�on with leading local structural engineers, SBS™ has designed a range of tanks suitable for the harsh South African climate and for export into Africa and worldwide. The capacity range of the SBS Tanks™ is from 12 Kilolitres to 3.3 Megalitres. In 2012 SBS™ boasted their accredita�on to the Proudly South African campaign and are proud to establish themselves as a business that locally manufactures and supplies a range of tanks instead of impor�ng them. Their recent cer�fica�on with the SABS in terms of the ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems provides a compe��ve edge to this company, enabling them to assure confidence in their products and services. “SBS™ has taken a brave step towards the ul�mate quality improvement system and is molding a company culture of excellence by implemen�ng the ISO 9001:2008 standard in their opera�ons.” explains Pam Naidoo of MPower Training and Consul�ng, the firm appointed to assist in a�aining this cer�fica�on.

Delayne Gray, Managing Director of SBS™ states “We have worked hard on the process of manufacturing our own tanks and aim to supply both our new and current customers a product that is of premium quality and cost effec�ve. We are small enough to care, yet big enough to deliver.”

Well done on 16 years of successful business and achieving the prestigious SABS ISO 9001:2008 certification.

Tanks

We are proud to be associated with SBS ! TM

Tel: 031 462 9199 www.mpowering.co.za

Tel: (031) 701 4821 info@steelbank.co.za www.steelbank.co.za

031 700 9648 sales@processsteel.co.za www.processsteelandtube.co.za

Congratulations SBS on your recent Proudly South African Certification. The 16 years SBS has been in business is true testament of your exceptional Management Team and staff, the passion and vision to be the BEST in your field!

info@sbstanks.co.za Search: SBS Tanks

www.sbstanks.co.za

It has been a pleasure assisting you in this process and we look forward to watching the company grow to even great heights!

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you great success and are proud to be of service to you.

+27(0)860 482 657

TM

TM

The Management and staff of Steelbank congratulates SBS TANKS on being awarded their SABS ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems Cer�fica�on.

Contact us today for professional service: Storage Tanks for Africa

Congratulations SBS on your SABS ISO 9001:2008 Quality Management Systems Certification.

It is an absolute pleasure working with SBS and we look forward to growing together, from strength to strength, for years to come!

031 267 0111

www.traveldynamix.co.za

“SBS Tanks is the epitome of a proudly South African company which adheres to the qualifying criteria upon which our members pride themselves: quality, local content, fair labour prac�ces and environmental standards. By suppor�ng a company such as SBS Tanks, which is an official Proudly SA member company, consumers and procurement officials are inves�ng in the local economy and contribu�ng towards job crea�on in our country. Suppor�ng local companies, their products and services is one way in which all South Africans can ac�vely contribute towards job crea�on and poverty allevia�on in a tangible way. We call on consumers to support all Proudly SA companies and to choose local first,” Proudly SA's CEO, Adv. Leslie Sedibe.

5326 - KZN Industrial & Business News - Company Profile - June 2014


L

June / July 2014

news

6

KZN Industrial & Business News

Advanced manufacturing facility for KZN

eading South African snack manufacturer Simba has officially opened its new state-ofthe-art manufacturing plant in Prospecton, KwaZulu-Natal. The new plant was opened by Simba’s Business Unit CEO, Alan Henderson and is the company’s third manufacturing facility in South Africa. Simba Manufacturing Director, Andrew Havinga said, “This is a very proud moment for Simba and its employees. Simba is one of our country’s most-loved brands and has been a valued part of the South African landscape for over 58 years, which is why we are pleased to open this worldclass manufacturing site and to welcome our new 90-strong team members. The KZN team includes many skilled technicians with approximately 60 percent of the current staff complement consisting of talented graduates joining us fresh from local tertiary institutions.” The Prospecton plant will enable Simba, which

is a subsidiary of PepsiCo Inc, to meet the increasing demand for its Lays and Simba potato chip products. With Simba’s two other plants located in Gauteng and the Western Cape, the Prospecton plant is strategically positioned to ensure a strong regional presence while providing the opportunity for future expansion. Havinga continued, “We have seen demand for our products grow for a number of years now and our new facility will help us meet this demand and better serve the needs of our valued retail partners and other customers. This is a milestone achievement for the South African business and I’d like to thank everyone who has worked so hard to make it happen. It has taken just 484 000 project man hours to complete the project and bring some of the world’s latest manufacturing technology to South Africa’s Simba.” The advanced technology employed will ensure the plant produces to its optimal perfor-

mance levels while still operating as a highly efficient and environmentally stable operation. This includes processes to increase the efficiency of the machinery while reducing electricity consumption and ensuring increased water reuse (limiting the drain on critical natural resources). The plant also has a strict recycling initiative in place and aims to achieve approximately 90 percent recyclable waste in the first year, which will significantly reduce what is sent to local landfill sites. “Many of the technicians employed on site are sourced directly from the Durban University of Technology and local FET (Further Education and Training) colleges. This is priority for the company as it allows us to play a role in imparting technical skills transfer opportunities to young South Africans and create additional local employment opportunities for new graduates,” Enquiry no: 10 concludes Havinga.

Alan Henderson, left, and Rod Robinson officially open the new Simba plant

SA must learn from Australia’s auto industry implosion

S

GM Holden production line Australia by 2017, which is forcing manufacturers to re-invent themselves in order to stave off mass job losses, is one of the most talked about developments in recent manufacturing history. Roos, a Swedish-born, celebrated academic across the globe and the founder or co-founder of several companies in different countries has worked as a consultant in more than 50 countries as well as having served in management positions in several European and US-based corporations. Most recently he has been supporting the Australian Prime Minister’s Taskforce on Manufacturing in Australia. ‘’The Australian scenario and the EU crisis which has virtually overnight decimated component manufacturers’ traditional markets, hold telling mes-

FCB CAPE TOWN 10006283CT/E

outh Africa’s automotive manufacturing industry believes it must learn from the dramatic collapse of the Australian auto sector. National Association of Automotive Components and Allied Manufacturers of South Africa (NAACAM) Executive Director, Robert Houdet said the Australian industry’s collapse, which could trigger the loss of over 30 000 jobs would provide valuable insight for South African auto companies. Houdet said learning from the Australian and EU crisis would be unpacked to industry at South African Automotive Week, by global manufacturing doyen and advisor to Australia’s shattered automotive industry, Goran Roos, whom Houdet says is “arguably the most capable of sharing these lessons.” Roos will be a keynote speaker at the 2-day conference, which forms part of the South African Automotive Week Tradeshow at Gallagher Convention Centre on October 14 and 15. “There are many learnings that the South African industry has to contemplate and implement to ensure the sustainability of our own industry,’’ Houdet said. The shock announcement, within months, confirming the closures of Ford, GM Holden and Toyota in

THE BLUEPRINT FOR AFRICA’S FUTURE. Engen is committed to an African success story. With a dedicated team on the ground and a wide range of quality Industrial Lubricants, we can ensure smooth operations no matter what extreme conditions you face. Contact us today on +27 21 403 5090 or visit www.engenoil.com. Also available at The Oil Centre, approved distributor of Engen Lubricants.

10006548CT Engen Industrial Lubes_Africa Blueprint Ad_205x150.indd 1

2014/06/13 11:04 AM

I

sages and learnings for African manufacturers....relating to competitiveness, input costs, strategic positioning and the importance of diversification,” says Houdet. Economic modelling by the Productivity Commission of Australia has predicted that up to 39,000 jobs, mostly in Victoria and South Australia would be lost after the end of production by Ford, GM Holden and Toyota in the period 2016-17. This estimate comprises 11,120 direct jobs being lost at the car manufacturers, plus another 28,100 jobs in the car component supply chain. South African Automotive Week Director Andrew Binning described the securing of Roos for South African Automotive Week, hosted every two years by the South African industry and government, as “a coup.” “He has made numerous presentations on profitable manufacturing with reference to the EU crisis and Australia, is very eloquent and probably a vital, unobstructed and candid voice that South Africa must hear.” Binning said the industry Conference over 2 days, would feature other top speakers including the CEO’s of Toyota SA, Nissan SA, NAACAM and SAACI, among others. Enquiry no: 11

Industry icon retires

van Clark, chairman of the board of Grindrod, retired at the end of May after a 37-year association with the company, having turned 70 recently. On his watch as CEO of the group in 2005 and 2006, Grindrod was the top listed company in South Africa and the top shipping company in the world. He joined the Grindrod Group in 1977 and rose through the ranks to CEO, a position he held from 1999 to 2006, when he was appointed deputy chairman and subsequently chairman when Murray Grindrod retired after 50 years with the group. Ivan, with the support of the chairman and a strong board of directors, guided the group from a reported loss of R66 million in 1999, to the number one listed company in South Africa and to the Marine Money International top listed shipping company in the world, for 2005 and 2006. Grindrod, one of the largest companies in Durban, was also the Financial Mail’s top company for 2005, 2006 and 2007, and the top KZN company in 2005. Grindrod celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2010. The Board has elected Mr Mike Hankinson to succeed Mr Ivan Clark as new Chairman after the AGM, effective 30 May 2014. Hankinson has been serving on the Grindrod board since December 2009 and was a member of the Audit Committee, and is Chairman of both the Remuneration and Nomination and the Social and Ethics comEnquiry no: 12 mittees.


June /July 2014

COMPANY PROFILE: ICTUS EQUIPMENT

KZN Industrial & Business News

ICTUS EQUIPMENT -

on its way to KwaZulu-Natal ICTUS EQUIPMENT is a mining and lubrication company, founded in 1979 by the late Jack Meiring. He used his passion for design to create pumps that were efficient, robust, reliable and cost effective. It was this passion that drove him to continually modify and improve the range of products, thus ensuring the company remained at the forefront of the pump industry. HISTORY ICTUS started on a small scale selling primarily to a few mines and informal businesses in order to keep the overheads low and maintain a cash flow that allowed for an aggressive capital investment. At the turn of the millennium ICTUS grew at a rate which allowed for further investment in the business and as a result, the company purchased modern premises with a state of the art manufacturing plant. The head office in Johannesburg occupies in excess of 2000m2, and has been further modernised to enable increased output and further expand. The main focus remains on the consumer and striving to manufacture the best possible quality at the best possible prices in the shortest possible time. Through intensive testing and quality control, all products have been labelled “Performance Proven”, and ICTUS carries this logo with pride as a personal quality guarantee. The company employs over 40 permanent employees and a number of contract workers that service the Gauteng region. Many of the employees are based off site and the company has established a good reputation in the Mining Sector. NOW For the past four years in a row, despite the challenging economic climate, the company has experienced a year on year growth rate in excess of 33%. The company has become the ‘preferred supplier’ to numerous major mining houses and industries in South Africa and hold various contracts on the mines to supply and service equipment. ICTUS currently exports to more than 17 countries worldwide, and this number is growing all the time. According to ICTUS Operations Director, Wesley Meiring, the company attributes this success to its commitment to customers. “We endeavour to give them a cost effective, reliable, always evolving product backed up with impeccable service.” “We are a BEE contributor and upliftment and development of our staff is key to us.” The company prides itself on the fact that the vast majority of current staff have been there for many years and many of them have worked their way up in the company and improved themselves by taking advantage of the various training and courses on

offer. “We offer various training opportunities to all staff wishing to enhance their skillset. Outside training is always done at recognised institutions ensuring that staff have a qualification to be proud of. By means of internal training, our staff are often rotated, giving them all round knowledge in the manufacturing process. This also ensures that staff do not get bored and that skillsets are able to grow.” “We firmly believe that our people are our greatest asset and take great pride in motivating them to always do better“he explained. “Our staffs are trained to know that no matter how good you are at your job, there is always room for improvement.” ICTUS consists of two divisions; namely a Mining and Construction division and a Lubrication and workshop division. The Mining/Construction division offers locally manufactured cement and grout pumps and mobile hand and air grout and cement mixers as well as the newly developed Electric Maxi Mixer which is used for continuous batch mixing and pumping. The Lubrication division offers a wide range of oil and grease pumps, hand and air operated, hose reels, meters, dispensing guns and accessories and transfer kits to name a few. This division accounts for nearly 50% of sales. The Lubrication division has two sub-divisions, one offering the blue series and the other, the platinum series. The platinum series is locally manufactured. It is very robust and of a very high quality. The blue series which consists largely of Ompi products, is imported from Italy and are of equally high quality and competitively priced. ICTUS is the official agents of Ompi for the entire African continent. Ompi is based in Italy and produces high quality products whilst trying to keep costs to a minimum. Ompi has always committed itself to the realisation of systems which involve reliability, security and efficiency with respect for the environment. ICTUS chose Ompi for the blue series because, like ICTUS they have taken the utmost care and use only the best materials on the market. The result is a product which ensures maximum efficiency and operation regularity and maintains its reliability over time. THE FUTURE The company has also recently undertaken a number of feasibility studies and discovered room for expansion in the local market. One of the primary areas identified is Kwazulu-Natal and the company will shortly be bringing its superior brand of product backed up with good service, technical advice and maintenance to the province.

Contact Details ICTUS Equipment (Pty) Ltd Head Office: 40 Colin Wade Street, Wadeville Tel: (011) 824-2941/2 Fax: (011) 824-3155 Email: sales@ictus.co.za KZN Office: 90 Columbine Place, Red Hill Tel: 082 521 6388 kzn@ictus.co.za www.ictus.co.za

Official agents for Africa

7


8

June / July 2014

news

KZN Industrial & Business News

3D printing set to boost SA entrepreneurs

F

uturistic as it may seem, 3D printing has the potential to change the way South African businesses operate, as well as introduce a new stream of entrepreneurs into the economy. From a global perspective, this invention has already created countless opportunities for businesses to differentiate themselves from competitors, with 3D printing products and services expected to approach $6 billion worldwide in the next four years*. 3D printing involves a printing device that layers liquids, powders, and sheet materials together in a digital model to accurately create a three-dimensional final product. Christo Botes, spokesperson for the Sanlam / Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year com-

petition, says that although this technology is still relatively new to South African shores, its global success highlights the many opportunities that local entrepreneurs stand to benefit from, should they be able to capitalise on this innovative method of production. Botes also points to recent research compiled by Canalys, an independent analyst company that strives to guide clients on the future of the technology industry, which revealed that the size of the 3D printing market, including 3D printer sales, materials and associated services, reached $2.5 billion globally in 2013 and is expected to reach $3.8 billion in 2014. “Originally used for the production of plastic prototypes, the application can now handle a

range of materials from titanium to human cartilage, and can print custom products, such as phone cases and jewellery, to shoe prototypes and even house structures. It is also predicted that as the technology develops, these possibilities will only continue to increase.” Botes adds that while the implementation of 3D printing is evident in many sectors, from architecture to aerospace and medical, more recently it has altered traditional manufacturing processes. “Generally, smaller businesses operating in the manufactur-

S

of enterprises, resulting in a relatively low entry barrier for many entrepreneurs wishing to start a business after noticing a gap in the market.” In terms of job creation, Botes says that 3D printing could potentially improve the sustainability of the local printing sector. “The new technology will force companies operating in the traditional printing industry to review and introduce new service offerings. This approach will not only create jobs, but maintain jobs in an industry that is facing discontinuation, due to the shift from print to digital.” Botes advises that while 3D printing has endless possibilities, it is still in its early stages, especially in South Africa. “Local entrepreneurs considering investing in the technology must ensure that they seek advice from industry specialists. Customer research is also vital as the general public and customers may be hesitant or sceptical to use a product manufactured via 3D printing.” *Research by Wohlers Associates

Enquiry no: 13

The time to invest is now

outh African companies in the quarrying industry should consider investing in the growth of their businesses right-now as the world and local economies drag themselves out of a prolonged slump and edge towards improved growth. On the heals of the country’s fifth successfully run elections and a flood of positive data from leading economists, it makes sense to invest in an industry that ultimately supports all future building and construction projects and supplies more than 80% of the raw materials required for structures and roads. Nico Pienaar, director of the Aggregate and Sand Producers Association of Southern Africa (Aspasa) says it is imperative that especially sand and aggregate mining operations are able to respond to increased future demands for construction materials. “Government and the private sector have backlogs in terms of investment in physical infrastructure. With elections out of the way, Governmental heads have received a fresh mandate and will want to be seen to be delivering on their campaign promises.

T

ing industry have outsourced their model designs to specific suppliers, thereby remaining dependent on the supplier for both the delivery time and the quality of the specific product. “However, the development of 3D printing technology now empowers businesses to create innovative, customised products with a faster turnaround time, and without compromising product quality. “Given that 3D printing is only restricted by computer-aided design competencies and printer availability, the technology is increasingly becoming a feasible option for a wide range

Likewise, businesses are seeing the first real “green shoots” of a revival in world economies; and that translates into increased demand for South African exports and commodities.” “Statistically, history shows that these macro indicators are followed by an up-tick in the residential building industry and are followed shortly afterwards by the construction industry. This improvement is already in evidence and we are seeing vastly better sentiments in the residential sector already. With a new mandate, Government can be expected to unleash some new infrastructure projects that should further stimulate the building and construction industry.” “For this reason we believe it is time for sand and aggregate producers to look to the future and put plans

in place to deal with a higher growth scenario. Also, to look at the type and quality of minerals being produced and to actively market them to custodians of projects that are either in the pipeline or are being planned, such as municipalities, public works, construction firms and consulting engineers,” says Nico. He adds that local statistics show that residential, non residential and total building projects show healthy growth and that year-to-date figures are supporting the fact that 2014 building figures will be up from last year - upholding predictions that the industry has reached a turning point. Furthermore, stability in the political arena should bode well for the future. “With the elections over we can hopefully return to the real issues and work with Government and the industry to move towards world-class mining practices in order to produce world-class aggregates and building products. We need to work together to create legislation that formalises the industry, introduces stricter standards and puts a stop to illegal mining and unnecessary borrow pits.” Enquiry no: 14

Managing risks associated to strikes

he on-going riots and labour dis- released late last year, revealed that ruptions in the platinum industry strike activities increased by approxiis causing South African busi- mately 48% during 2012. A total of 99 nesses to continually feel the impacts strike incidents were recorded in 2012, of strikes, which is damaging eco- and of these, 45 were unprotected. nomic growth, and in turn negatively One such way for businesses to impacting local businesses within the protect themselves from strike-related mining sector, as well as those inad- risks is by making use of cover provertently involved. vided by Sasria, a state-owned shortAccording to Annelie Smith, term insurance company which has a Corporate Executive at Risk Benefit mandate to provide specialised risk Solutions (RBS), the risks related to cover for physical damage caused by strikes and riots – across all sectors riots, strikes, terrorism, civil commo– are steadily growing as the number tion and public disorder to corporate / of strikes in South Africa continues to commercial and individual policyholdincrease. “Business owners need to ers. ensure that they are covered for the “Many businesses have short-term various risks that strikes and riots may insurance solutions in place protecting bring about for their business, such them against catastrophic perils like as damage to property and loss of fires, storms, earthquakes and other income due to interruptions caused by risks, however, damage to property labour unrest.” caused both by politically-and nonCompared to a few years ago, when politically motivated acts of destruction strikes were erratic, these incidents is excluded from these policies. Many are steadily becoming more constant businesses may not know that this within the country, says Smith. standard exclusion is a global practice The 2012 Annual Industrial Action and applies to all insurance policies.” THE EVENTS COMP p - G 2/23/11 5:30 PM Page 1 Report by the Department of Labour, Sasria’s Integrated Report 2013, C

M

Y

CM

MY

revealed a 91% increase in claims frequency, driven primarily by labour strikes, as well as an increase in claims severity of 135% for the period ending 31 March 2013. The trigger for Sasria to cover an instance is based on the direct damage to a business property, as a result of a strike or riot. “For example, should a business premises be set alight by rioters, Sasria would cover the damage to the property, as well as the on-going costs requiring payment during the period, such as rates & taxes, loans and high purchase agreements for example. However, should a strike take place near the property, resulting in the business ‘shutting down’ its operations temporarily, and sending staff home as a result of intimidation, there is no direct damage to the property and therefore the instance will not be covered by either the property or the Sasria policies, despite the business suffering a financial loss as a result of the business being interrupted. CY CMY

K

Enquiry no: 15


June /July 2014

9

KZN Industrial & Business News

FOCUS ON ZULULAND HE high uptake of voluntary severance packages at BHP Billiton’s Bayside Aluminium has significantly minimised forced retrenchments, if any, at the ageing smelter. It is believed more than 300 employees have opted for voluntary and early retirement packages, which become effective at the end June. In January, the mining conglomerate announced the shutdown of Bayside’s remaining potlines effectively ending aluminium production at the smelter and leaving hundreds of jobs hanging in the balance. However, Head of External Affairs at BHP Billiton Aluminium SA (ASA), Aroon Patel said

9

recently that there was a possibility there would be no forced retrenchments as a result of the ‘very good uptake of packages’. “Some Bayside employees will be offered early retirement and some absorbed into the Hillside operation.” “The applications for voluntary and early retirement packages will be reviewed and finalised shortly.” “There are also transition plans in place where certain individuals will be asked to stay on longer to ensure skills transfer and a smooth transition,” said Patel. Meanwhile, the decommissioning of Bayside has commenced and will be concluded by the end of June. ‘The transfer of liquid metal from Hillside to The GRID What is it?

T

By Ronelle Ramsamy

The GRID is a graphic element that helps to create the ZEST indentity. Derivative of the proportions of the logo, it is based on a proportion of width and height of 2-to3. The distance between the GRID elements is 1/3 of the height of an element.

Bayside forced retrenchments slashed the value-added product cast house at Bayside has begun, in line with ensuring a continued support of the downstream industry.” “We have been in constant contact with local traffic authorities to ensure the transfer is done safely. Safety of everyone remains our priority and we will continue to offer support in this tough period. This includes psychological and financial advice support,” Patel said. The possible sale of the cast house as an entity is also on the cards. Patel said following the request for expression of interests from potential buyers, the company was now at the end of sale assessment process. “We are about to receive the final bids and are testing the viability of the sale. In about a month’s time, we will know whether the sale

of the cast house is viable and if not, we will explore our remaining options, which is aligned to the vision of sustainably providing metal to the downstream industry,” said Patel. The ongoing discussions with stakeholders, and the consultative process with unions and non-union representative bodies from the beginning of the year, have been described as both productive and meaningful. “Various options were jointly considered. We are very grateful for the responsible and professional manner that everyone has continued to display making us quite positive of the future.” Article courtesy of Zululand Observer

Enquiry no: 16

LPG stocks rise

Enquiry no: 18

TECHNICAL SUPPORT

+27 11 723 6000

www.zest.co.za

INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS

AFRICAN MULTI-NATIONAL

24/7 TECHNICAL SUPPORT

24/7

WHERE YOU NEED IT, WHEN YOU NEED IT

n

Supply and installation of electrical instrumentation and control/PLC SCADA n Construction specialist in all major sectors across Africa n

EnI Electrical

Mini Substations n Transformers n Switchgear n

WEG Transformers Africa

Packaged Switchgear Motor Control Centres n E-Housing n Containerised Substations n

n

Shaw Controls

ENERGY Power Generation & Energy Solutions n Substations & Electrical Infrastructure n Mobile Power Solutions n

ZEST Energy

Electric Motors Variable Speed Drives n Soft Starters n Transformers n LV Switchgear n Diesel Generator Sets n

n

ZEST Electric Motors

Hundreds of school children at five schools in northern Zululand benefitted from a Road Safety Awareness project initiated by Zululand Anthracite Colliery (ZAC). Presented in the form of storytelling by specifically trained local amateur actors, the children learned that road safety is a responsibility that affects all road users.

MARKET OFFERING

Driving road safety at schools

24/7 technical back-up n Fully qualified technicians n 5 Fully equipped training centres across Africa n 187 site visits into Africa per year

WHY SUPPORT

Enquiry no: 17

CUSTOMER FOCUSSED

T

emperatures may be plummeting as winter forces its icy grip on South Africa, however gas stocks remain high, as local gas market leader Afrox has proactively addressed the challenge by importing over 4 500 tons of LPG to ensure that sufficient supplies are available for consumers to warm their homes during the cold spells. Afrox head of LPG Mark Radford reveals that the shipment has already been offloaded at the company’s Richards Bay strategic storage facility. “Currently, Handigas LPG is available at all Afrox outlets across South Africa.” “With the onset of extreme cold and snow in parts of the country, we expect demand to rise sharply, and imported stocks will meet a possible shortfall in local supply.” According to Radford, demand for LPG is on the rise in both the commercial and consumer sectors. “As a result, Afrox considers it necessary to import stocks to act as a buffer against local shortages. Importing LPG on an ongoing basis, although costly relative to local product, will be required to ensure that rising local demand can be met,” he continues. Radford stresses that the world class Afrox import facility ensures that the company is well placed to cater for these demand spikes. “The needs of customers and consumers are a priority, and we are prepared to invest to meet market expectations.”


June / July 2014

10

KZN Industrial & Business News

CONSTRUCTION, CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

Taking on challenging piling contracts in KZN L eading geotechnical solutions provider, Franki Africa, part of the Keller group, is busy with a number of challenging piling contracts in the KZN area. One of these is the Mount Edgecombe Interchange, where the central scope of work comprises a four-level interchange with the highest bridge being 1600 metres long and 27 metres high and the next level 700 metres long and 18 metres high. The four main structures are being piled with a total of 407 No x 900 mm Ø temporary cased, cast-in-situ, friction piles of depths ranging between 22 metres and 34 metres. In addition there are a total of 28 No x 900 mm Ø similar piles for temporary piers that accommodate incremental launching at an elevated height of 12 metre above the ground of the main bridge, which will be jacked from either end to meet in the centre. As of end May 2014, a total of 120 no. permanent piles and 28 no. temporary piles have been installed. An additional seven piles have been installed because of the high water table and soft layers of mud over the lower two-thirds of the pile on the south side. “But we are steadily progressing out of this area and expect to be able to maintain a more stable rate of production for the remainder of the contract,” says Jaco Pienaar, Franki Contracts Manager. Another contract is the reconstruction of the

Durban Bay of Plenty Pier, which Franki Africa (KZN) was appointed to carry out by Ethekweni Municipality in October 2013. Franki Assistant Divisional Manager, Paul Pearce, says the existing pier is a reinforced concrete deck supported on precast concrete piles which retain a rock groyne beneath the pier. “Due to scour and failure of the precast piles, approximately 75m of the seaward end of the pier has failed and is to be demolished and reconstructed,” Pearce says. The main scope of works includes the demolition of 75m of the existing piling and deck; installation of 22 no. 750mm diameter x 24m permanently cased piles; construction of 75m x 10m wide new deck and the installation of 300 no. 4-ton geotextile scour protection bags within and around the seaward end of the pier. “In order to safely demolish the old pier and construct the new one, it is necessary to construct a 110m temporary jetty adjacent to the existing structure as a working platform,” Pearce says. The new deck, which will be approximately 4m wider than the existing deck, will be constructed in 11 sections. Custom shuttering will be supported on the new and the existing piles and, as with all marine works, the risks associated with rough sea conditions are ever-present making the fixing and maintaining of the deck shuttering challenging. “For this reason glass fibre coated polysty-

Beware unscrupulous and unqualified contractors and corrupt officials

Clear your Game Farm ...with ease Forestry Cutter Attachment

• Cut down trees and grind them into mulch • Cutting teeth take down trees from top to bottom • Clear every tree in an area or selectively thin stands • Optional two-speed for increased drum torque

Features: Compact Size: Accommodates any tree removal job, from clearing every tree in an area to selective thinning.

Low Number of Teeth: Provides fast knockdown of trees and low-cost replacement. Pressure Gauge: Visible from the seat to help the operator run the attachment at peak efficiency.

Counter Combs: Provide the ability to do fine mulching, and provide wear protection for the rear of the housing.

Safety Chains: Reduce debris thrown to the rear.

Double-Tipped Carbide Teeth: Efficiently rip through hard and soft woods, providing long life and uptime protection for the attachment.

Spiral Tooth Pattern: Allows one tooth to engage at a time for smoother operation and less horsepower demand.

Rotor Brake: Stops from full speed in 10 seconds or less when the forestry cutter’s hydraulics are deactivated.

Adjustable Push Bar: Has three positions to accommodate the operator’s preferred setting. Gathering feature pulls brush and trees towards the center of the drum.

Sales Service Rental Call any of our branches nationwide on: 010 593 6916 • bobcat@goscor.co.za www.bobcatasa.co.za A proud member of the Goscor Group of Companies

rene blocks will be used for soffits to enable quick placing and removal,” Pearce says. Currently Franki’s Siva Govindasamy, a veteran Durban pier builder having worked on Dairy Beach Pier, uShaka Pier, Umhlanga Pier and the more recent Argyle Stormwater outlet, and James Van Wyk are supervising the works. Franki now Part of Keller Meanwhile Franki Africa MD Roy McLintock says that being part of the Keller Group is a tremendous boon. “The Keller Group is the world’s largest independent geotechnical engineering contractor. Being part of an organisation like this has obvious and significant benefits for Franki Africa including access to a wide range of innovative technologies, finance for future growth and, of course, a wealth of geotechnical intellectual property and experience,” he said Keller, which acquired Esorfranki Geotechnical (now Franki Africa) from JSElisted Esorfranki towards the end of 2013, has approximately 8,000 staff worldwide and global annual revenues of around ₤1.5 billion. Keller is the clear market leader in the U.S., Canada and Australia, and has prime positions in most established European markets as well as a strong profile in many developing markets.

Enquiry no: 19

C

onsulting Engineering South Africa (CESA) is appalled by the pressure put on its members to certify payment for work not done and will not bow to pressure from greedy, unscrupulous and unqualified contractors and corrupt officials. “We are concerned and as an organisation that represents this invaluable profession which is the backbone of quality infrastructure, we cannot accept this despicable behavior and conduct to continue unchallenged,” states CESA CEO Lefadi Makibinyane. He cautions that CESA will not allow these bad elements to hold the profession to ransom or deter members from practising their profession. Their actions are denying people a better life through the delivery of basic services and critical infrastructure underpinning economic growth and job creation. “Our Government has done everything to prepare internationally acclaimed policies

but implementation has been their Achilles Heel mainly due to these unscrupulous officials who are eroding the profitability of, not only our member firms, but most companies doing business with government, especially municipalities where the rot lies.” Makibinyane adds that governance in most municipalities in the country is in shambles and is worsened by the political interference in administration. “In CESA’s space in the economy we shall be relentless in holding those in power accountable to ensure that the quality of basic services through effective and efficient infrastructure is delivered to the people of South Africa. We shall work closely with government institutions to ensure that these corrupt acts are identified and their perpetrators reported to the South African Police Services, the Public Protector, the Special Investigative Unit and National Treasury, for further investigation and Enquiry no: 20 prosecution,” he concludes.


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

CONSTRUCTION, CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

11

Strong market response to polyurea coatings T here has been increasing demand in South Africa for VIP Polyurea coatings since a.b.e Construction Chemicals’ last year secured an exclusive agreement with Voelkel Industrie Produkte (VIP) of Germany for the local distribution of the company’s globally-specified range of protective coatings and joint fillers. Noel Abendroth, a.b.e.’s Divisional Manager: VIP Polyurea Systems, said a.b.e. – part of the Chryso Southern Africa Group – had recently secured several high-profile contracts for the Munich-produced VIP Polyurea coatings. The decision to select the range was based on its “revolutionary” benefits which include durability, superior protection, ease of application and turnaround times. Included in the new contracts are: • VIP Polyurea coating was the preferred choice for the refurbishment of the vehicular

A

ramp at the KZN Department of Education’s high-rise Malgate Building. Xotherm was the applicator for this project at 72 Stanger Street in Durban; • New waterproofing of the luxury Mandela Rhodes apartment block in the Cape Town CBD where the existing waterproof coating had failed within a year after application; • New surface coating of the Cape Town Rapid Bus Transport (RBT) system’s concrete pedestrian ramp at Canal Walk which a.b.e. assigned to its approved applicator, Thermoseal. Trials are currently underway to also apply VIP Polyurea to the area’s expansion joints; • Thermoseal was also the applicator after VIP Polyurea was selected for the waterproofing of the Strandsig apartment block on the beachfront in The Strand, Western Cape. The area covered was around 900 square

Amended construction regulations

ccording to Occupational Care SA, construction work is a dangerous business and, according to COID stats, it is one of the industries with the highest injury rates. In order to create awareness of this situation, OCSA would like to highlight a number of important provisions set out in the amended Occupational Health and Safety Act, Construction Regulations which were promulgated on 7 February 2014, in Government Gazette No. 37305. The Construction Regulations, 2014, are applicable to all persons involved in construction work In terms of Regulation 9, a contractor must, before the commencement of any construction work and during such construction work, perform risk assessments as part of the health and safety plan to be applied on the site and must include:• the identification of the risks and hazards to

which persons may be exposed to; • an analysis and evaluation of the risks and hazards identified based on a documented method; • a documented plan and applicable safe work procedures to mitigate, reduce or control the risks and hazards that have been identified; • a monitoring plan; and • a review plan. Reg 7(8) of the amended Regulations requires a contractor to ensure that all his or her employees have a valid medical certificate of fitness specific to the construction work to be performed and issued by an occupational health practitioner in the form of Annexure 3. This means that: • All construction workers need to be medically certified to perform construction work. No person may therefore be allowed to perform construction work unless they are in possession of a medical certificate declar-

metres; • VIP Polyurea was used in a “sandwich waterproofing” application at new ablution facilities at the University of Cape Town Rugby Club’s headquarters. The applicator, Thermoseal, “sandwiched” VIP Polyurea ing them fit to perform construction work. • The assessment to determine whether a construction worker is fit to work should be based on the worker’s risk profile and should consider: job title, job tasks, anticipated health and safety hazards/risks and control measures (existing and/or required). • A medical certificate contemplated in Reg 7(8), may be issued by an occupational health practitioner. In terms of the definition of occupational health practitioner in the Occupational Health and Safety Act, this includes an occupational health nursing practitioner and/or an occupational medicine practitioner. • The medical certificate of fitness must comply with the format stipulated in Annexure 3 of the amended Regulations . • The employer of a construction worker must provide information confirming: job title, job tasks, anticipated hazards/risks and control measures. • This information should be provided by the employer, before sending the worker for a medical assessment. • The certificate should be signed by the OHNP (Occupational Health Nurse Practitioner) or OMP (Occupational Medical Practitioner) depending on who performed Enquiry no: 22 the medical assessment.

coatings both underneath and on top of the concrete screed for this project which covered about 600 square metres. “Furthermore, VIP Polyurea was recently introduced to the farming community at the Nampo trade show at Bothaville – South Africa’s biggest agricultural trade show - where there was tremendous interest in future use of the coating for silos, implements, warehouses, dams and fertiliser tanks, to name just a few applications.” Abendroth said VIP protective membranes were free of harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and solvents, and represented a “dramatic advance” over polyurethane and epoxy technology. “The VIP systems are generally designed to perform for around 25 years, depending on the nature of the project, which substantially cuts the costs of repairs and Enquiry no: 21 maintenance,” he explained.

New sealing product ika MultiSeal-ZA is S a self-adhesive, bituminous sealing tape;

one side laminated with aluminium foil. This handy DIY product is an ideal, quickfix solution for sealing and repair against water ingress and draughts in roofs, including sheet metal work; building cracks; inside of gutters; and bituminous felts and other types of roofing sheet. Sika MultiSeal-ZA is UV resistant, very easy to apply, economical, weather-proof and it can be over-painted. It allows easy adhesion to many substrates, is bitumen-resistant, and can be applied at low temperatures. Using it is easy:– simply clean the surface area; cut the tape to the necessary length; remove the release film; and press the tape firmly onto the substrate with a suitable pressure roller. Voila! Due to market demand, Sika has launched this product in three new sizes: 50mm x 2.5m, 75mm x 2.5m and 100mm x 2.5m. Enquiry no: 24

ISO certification awarded

R

eflecting its uncompromising commitment to quality, the Liviero group, South Africa’s largest privately owned multi-disciplinary construction company, has been awarded certification and registration of its Integrated Management System based on ISO 9001, ISO 14001 and OHSAS 18001. “Obtaining this certification validates all of our efforts to care for people and the environment, and improve the quality, delivery and

dependability of our products and services,” comments group CEO Neil Cloete. “This is a continuation of our efforts to establish ourselves as a contractor of choice and it is a significant milestone in our continuous improvement efforts.” Elaborating on the achievement, Liviero Group SHERQ Manager Gerrit van Heerden notes that the organisation’s successful completion of the rigorous process required for the IMS certification is testament to Liviero’s unwavering drive for safe working practices, product quality and customer satisfaction.

Enquiry no: 23

Welcome to the future – a future of Mwangaza We are all writing a part of the script which tomorrow’s society will play out.

At Royal HaskoningDHV we would like the title to read: ‘Welcome to the future’ -

and for our chapter in that script to read ‘Mwangaza’ - a Swahili word which means

‘light’. Together with our partners and clients we consider how we can create a welcoming future - developing efficient and smart living.

Whether switching on a light, travelling to work or drinking a clean glass of water - the solutions and work of our engineers surround us, making lives better and

brighter. Our work contributes to the sustainable development of communities. Together, we deliver innovative sustainable answers to today’s challenges.

Royal HaskoningDHV is an independent, international engineering and project management consultancy.

royalhaskoningdhv.com/za


12

CONSTRUCTION, CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

Infrastructure specialist group announced

T

he new group holding company for Technicrete, Rocla and Oconbrick has been announced as Infrastructure Specialist Group (ISG). The group was formed in 2013 after three leaders in the manufacture of infrastructure and mining products merged. The businesses were acquired from Murray & Roberts by a consortium consisting of private equity firm Capitalworks, RMB Ventures, Pan African Group and senior executives in the businesses in October 2013. “The three ISG companies apply specialist knowledge to manufacturing and supplying innovative infrastructure products to the

manufactures precast concrete products for infrastructure with factories throughout South Africa, Namibia and Botswana. Oconbrick is a preferred high quality clay brick supplier to construction and mining markets in Southern all major construction Africa.” and property develop“We needed to find a name that captured ment companies. Its what our three established brands deliver, products have been as well as being open to encompass new used in many presbusinesses we may incorporate in the infratigious projects from structure field,” says Albert Weber, CEO. “We the Constitutional believe that ISG is set to become a major Court to Sandton City. player in the construction industry.” Being proudly As the ISG companies are all market leaders South African is important to the group and in their focus areas, the three trading entities Weber further believes it has an important role will remain Technicrete, Rocla and Oconbrick. to play in development. “ISG is proud to be Technicrete is a leader in the manufacturing committed to the sustainable development of of concrete products for the construction and our region and its people.” Enquiry no: 25 mining industries in South Africa, while Rocla

Safety first for heavy glass handling

G

lass panels and sheets that weigh up to 600 kg can now be handled with even greater care, using the new VacuMaster Glass from German vacuum technology company, Schmalz – available from Tectra Automation. Suction cups can be configured to evenly distribute the load of a panel – minimising load scatter and point loading which can put panels and personnel at risk. Featuring two backup vacuum circuits (according to DIN EN 13155) and an integrated power failure monitor, the system can be operated without a connection to an electrical power supply, while still maintaining maximum safety standards. In operation, padded suction plates create a vacuum directly against the glass surface to lift and secure each panel. This ensures that the handling system doesn’t mark, scratch or chip the glass. It also enables operators to handle the glass with greater freedom of movement – making it ideal for high-rise facades and areas where

manoeuvring space is limited. It can easily be connected to a crane for overhead handling in a variety of construction and maintenance applications. Positioning and aligning glass panels is also easier with the VacuMaster. Work pieces can be swivelled manually by up to 90° and rotated by up to 360°. A unique mechanism is further able to lock the panel’s swivel in increments of 18°, and rotation in increments of 45°. The system is highly modular, and can be configured to provide maximum effectiveness in a range of glass handling applications: Using six suction plates provides enough force to lift 450 kg, and 4 suction plates provides enough for handling up to 300 kg. VacuMaster Glass is available with a cover for protecting the UV and ozone resistant suction plates, and an ergonomically designed box for protecting the system during transportation to Enquiry no: 26 and from site.

New high-performance insulating material

A

fter the initial presentation of Slentite at K 2013, the world’s biggest plastics fair, in Düsseldorf, the new high-performance insulating material has now been presented to the scientific media. Slentite is an organic, polyurethane-based aerogel that owes its special product properties to its nano-porous structure. Adopting a new chemical approach to highperformance insulating materials, the research team of Dr. Marc Fricke, Advanced Materials & Systems Research, is now presenting Slentite – a product that not only features extra-low thermal conductivity, but is also available for the first time as a solid panel. It thus permits insulation 25 to 50 percent slimmer than

conventional materials for the same insulation performance. At the same time, thanks to its open-porous structure, the panel has outstanding moisture regulation properties. For architects and house builders, Slentite therefore offers a high degree of design freedom, be it in the modernization of old buildings or the construction of new ones. Since the product’s first presentation the new insulating material has generated huge interest. “We have talked a great deal to companies in the construction and refrigerator industries

who have been a tremendous help in the on-going optimisation of the product’s properties,” said Dr. Nils Mohmeyer, New Market Development. “These early and direct consultations have also given us a better understanding of the requirements of the insulation market as a whole,” he says. BASF can thus offer a product that is tailored directly to the needs of target groups while also being energy-efficient. Slentite offers an ideal combination of low thermal conductivity and an open porous structure, thus offering excellent insulation values as well as a good room Enquiry no: 27 climate.

June / July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

Making SA roads safer

S

ince its first road safety product was introduced to the South African market in 1974, 3M has shown remarkable commitment to making the country’s roads safer with new product innovations, government partnerships and pedestrian training programmes, particularly with scholars. 3M has partnered with the government to provide highly reflective materials used in official signage and markings on SA’s national and provincial roads, particularly in hazardous, high-accident areas. 3M’s reflective materials are also used in licence plates and large vehicle marking to increase overall visibility and safety. “The products supplied by 3M’s Traffic Safety Systems Division, such as our prismatic retro reflective road signage materials, are a cost-effective way to ensure that SA roads are safer,” explains Andrew Blackburn, Sales and Marketing Manager, 3M Traffic Safety Systems Division. 3M South Africa initially supplied retro-reflective road signage material with the introduction of its Glass Beaded Material in 1974, and later with higher-reflective Prismatic Materials in 2000. Today, this material has evolved into Diamond Grade DG3 Reflective Sheeting with “full cube” technology that produces a material that is nearly twice as bright as other types of prismatic sign sheeting. 3M’s durable Diamond Grade Reflective Sheeting is designed to enable all road users to see and react in good time to other cars and road signs in both day and night time and in all weather conditions. The range provides reflectivity, angularity, and durability for virtually any traffic signing requirement. 3M was instrumental in ensuring the introduction of government Regulation 192A, which stipulates that vehicles of a certain mass and length are fitted with reflective yellow tape, as per SABS ECE R104, in order to ensure visibility. 3M offers its Diamond Grade Conspicuity Tape for large-vehicle marking to improve road safety by offering the highest reflectivity available to vehicles on the road. 3M prismatic sheeting and raised pavement markings have also been used on many of SA’s provincial and national highways to improve road and lane visibility for all permanent and temporary road structures, from road Enquiry no: 28 studs to gantry signs.

Distance and area not a limitation

Babcock’s supply of heavy construction equipment to support the construction of an airport on the remote island of St Helena will also be deployed to build a permanent wharf on the island that will allow ships to dock alongside for the first time in St Helena’s history. The island is in the South Atlantic Ocean, 2000 km from the nearest mainland.

Enquiry no: 29


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

CONSTRUCTION, CIVIL & STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING

13

Common engineering risks that insurer’s face R egularly reviewing financial policies and contracts is vitally important, even in the engineering and construction sector. In order to ensure that one is always in a positive financial situation, it is important to understand the risks associated with your business and review or adjust financial policies according to any major changes on a regular basis. This is the advice of Lebogang Mashego, Business Consultant: Engineering at Lion of Africa Insurance (LOA), who says insurers cannot emphasise enough the value of being insured under the correct policy in line with their businesses products and offerings. “In South Africa, and other African markets, the engineering and construction sectors consist of specialised insurance policies, and as such have been underwritten by highly technical, competent and qualified staff,” explains Mashego. For businesses and individuals alike, Mashego says insurance products are usually seen as a grudge purchase and are often the last expense to be ticked off on an income statement before an engineering project commences. “What many businesses fail to understand is the value of obtaining insurance, particularly engineering insurance, and

often only learn this value after suffering huge financial losses.” According to Mashego, these businesses are known in the industry to be exposed to a higher risk and therefore it is imperative that businesses understand and identify all the risks associated with their business before a project even begins. It is advised that a specialist be employed to identify risks and that the client disclose as much information about their business as possible in order for the correct policy to be recommended and implemented. Furthermore, Mashego says clients may be tempted to withhold information or give the incorrect information with the intention of paying a lower premium, but in the long run, if a specific element is not covered in their policy, a disastrous event could cause the client to find themselves underinsured or have their claim repudiated. “We therefore encourage clients to disclose any inadequacies they may be exposed to, such as underqualified contractors or not having the required fire protection installed. Even having faulty equipment on site is taken into consideration for the underwriting process. These disclosures assist specialists in provid-

ing the best possible cover, giving the business owner peace-of-mind that they are covered for any risk they may be exposed to,” explains Mashego. Mashego says the guidelines in terms of underwriting common engineering risks at LOA consist of two main criteria which are developed using high level measures such as the level of severity versus frequency of the hazards which the insured is exposed to. “The low level criterion is applied using the risk profile of the insured which is developed using the acknowledged information. Criteria such as location of risk, type of construction or equipment, experience of contractors, claims history of the insured, etc.” With the high level and low level analysis,

he says internal guidelines will then produce an optimal technical rate and policy structure. “The information gathered is then matched against market trends and conditions – for example in a soft market, the quoted premium can be a fraction of the premium obtained with a technical rate.” Hence, Mashego says it is extremely important for the insured to understand the terms and conditions of their insurance policy. The engineering industry is complex on its own. “It is best for clients to obtain the services of a broker to explain the terms and conditions of the policy issued, especially in an industry such as engineering,” concludes Mashego. Enquiry no: 30

ECOlogy + ECOnomy =

Ten years of growth

Driver assistance system vls. Nearly vertical movement. Hardly any load torque displacement in the longitudinal direction of the machine.

From left to right: Flowcrete South Africa’s MD, Craig Blitenthall, Flowcrete South Africa’s Commercial Director Anusha Naidoo and Flowcrete Group’s Vice President & International MD Craig Brooke

F

lowcrete South Africa celebrated ten years of trading, expansion and success in the specialist flooring industry recently with an elegant evening of fine dining at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban. The resin flooring company has grown from its humble beginnings in 2004, when it was just a small facility in Pinetown Durban, to its current position as a continental supplier of epoxy and polyurethane flooring systems with multiple factories and offices across South Africa. On the night of the celebration, which was attended by all the company’s staff, Flowcrete South Africa’s Managing Director Craig Blitenthall recognised the hard work that had gone into developing the company: “Flowcrete South Africa is proud to have grown into the successful business we are today. Through dedication, determination and having a solid team leading the company, Flowcrete South Africa has become a definite leader in the industry. We will continue to evolve, innovate and lead the way for many more years to come.” The story of Flowcrete South Africa is one of fast paced progress. It quickly made inroads into the national market by acquiring Ivory Industrials in January 2005, a chemical company that manufactures epoxy and synthetic resin based screeds, linings, grouts and wearing lines.

L

The larger facilities that Ivory Industrials brought with it allowed for rapid growth and Flowcrete South Africa quickly developed a strong reputation in both Durban and Johannesburg’s construction sectors. 2008 marked several significant landmarks for the still young floor manufacturing specialists. Firstly it saw an expansion into the Western Cape market with a new Flowcrete South Africa sales office being opened in Cape Town. This meant that the company was a force to be reckoned with, as it was now covering all the major areas of South Africa. Being part of Flowcrete Group, Flowcrete South Africa joined the rest of the global network when they were acquired by the RPM Group in 2008. This acquisition meant that the South African business gained a larger network of suppliers and increased its support base, which helped it to achieve more of the local market share. This exceptional progress in such a short period of time means that today Flowcrete South Africa has large manufacturing facilities and sales offices in Durban and Johannesburg as well as a new warehouse and sales facility in Cape Town. It is also able to supply construction projects across Africa and increasing its continental footprint remains a key focus Enquiry no: 31 point for the business.

Environmental friendliness and economic efficiency as a standard. www.wackerneuson.com Head Office: Johannesburg: 011 672 0847 Branches: Cape Town: 021 981 2197, Durban: 031 569 1200

NO_WN_ANZ_TH412_135x200_022014_1413113.indd 1

Illuminated PVC trunking

egrand has extended its DLP trunking range to include new illuminated, low energy consumption minitrunking, plinths, trunking and columns. “Legrand’s commitment to keeping abreast with the latest global electrical and digital trends and requirements in residential and commercial buildings, is confirmed by the introduction locally of new products and systems,” states Luk Ivens, general manager, Legrand Southern Africa. “The new multifunction illuminated DLP range is used to efficiently combine the distribution of high and low currents and LED illumination in a single product. Features of this system include cost efficiency, low energy consumption, enhanced safety and modern aesthetics. “LED lighting, which enables

The Eco products by Wacker Neuson.

energy consumption to be controlled, also meets new requirements for ‘Green Buildings’. LEDs, which are integrated in the DLP lighting module, continuously diffuse a soft light, providing standby lighting less than 5 lux, which is easy on the eye.” This illuminated PVC trunking is designed for comfort, safety and aesthetics in reception areas and passageways of non-residential buildings, like hotels, offices, hospitals, exhibition halls, shops and museums and for specific needs in the residential sector. Legrand has also worked closely with medical professionals and social organisations to provide solutions and technologies for elderly and disabled people to continue living in their own homes. Enquiry no: 32

20.02.14 17:07


June / July 2014

14

KZN Industrial & Business News

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT & CONTROL

Energy Factory – allowing clients to meet their own energy needs

U

p to 40% of the energy footprint of a city is determined by the water industry. With electricity costs accounting for some 40% of operating costs, out-of-the-box thinking is required. Royal HaskoningDHV’s solution is the Energy Factory. This system enables clients to meet their own energy needs - they may even provide surplus energy which can be supplied to others. Royal HaskoningDHV has been involved in numerous wastewater treatment plants in Europe that have successfully been converted into energy factories. For both existing and

new plants they approach the opportunities as a business case, step by step. Every step has to give return on investment within a reasonable number of years. The company is now working on its first plant in KwaZulu-Natal - providing their client with first-hand technology, experience and knowledge. “Using biogas to produce electricity has the potential to substantially reduce the carbon footprint of a wastewater treatment works,” states Siva Chetty, Water Technology: Management, Operations and Maintenance at

Royal HaskoningDHV. Plants in South Africa have the potential to recover up to 50% of the energy used through methane gas produced in the digestion process. By further optimising the efficiency of the plant, producing energy becomes a fact. “We had to come up with a new word for “wastewater” as there is no more waste: we are turning it into a valuable supply of energy and that is why we now refer to Energy Factories. All the energy needed in the waste-

water treatment process can be derived from wastewater - and there may even be some surplus energy which can be given back to society,” comments Bert Bakker, Market Segment Leader: Water and Wastewater Treatment at Enquiry no: 33 Royal HaskoningDHV.

Beware - New emissions regulations

W

ith changes slated for 2015, there is much uncertainty over new emissions regulations and who it will affect. Many companies seem blissfully unaware of the implications of not having systems in place on time. The increasing focus on environmental awareness and social responsibility, as well as bottom-line penalties, is the key driving force behind industry placing greater emphasis on measuring, monitoring and controlling the effluent and emissions from their plants. Under existing legislation water effluent needs to be within certain standards and new legislation relating to air quality monitoring will mean that industry will need to measure, monitor and control the gas emissions from sites. CheckIT Systems specialises in instrumentation, measurement and control and offers

customised solutions by leveraging its Alliance Partnership with National Instruments, a global leader in this field. CheckIT Systems has experience related to environmental monitoring of gas emissions within different industries and water purification projects that have been carried out as key research projects at a number of top tertiary institutions in Kwazulu Natal. CheckIt Systems offers a mobile solution

that can be used to acquire data from various industry standard sensors, and then analyse the data using custom developed software to be presented to the user in a clear, easily readable format with a level of complexity to suit the application. With powerful local processing the system can process large amounts of data at high speed and then transmit all the data or only the anomaly to the Cloud or client servers. The system aggregates data from one or many remote sites, and then presents the data to give a clear global picture. The system boasts built-in ruggedness and is easy to customise for different applications. There is the ability to combine a wide range of sensor types to give a full picture of measurement and more advanced automatic analysis of the data, as well as the addition of escalating alarms through SMS, email, or a mimic display.

The right people get to see the right data at the right time. By being able to simultaneously measure energy, emissions, condition, production, and other parameters on the same platform and from various 3rd party systems allows management to see the real cost of production of their product, from electrical energy cost through to efficiency. The systems play nicely with existing PLC’s and SCADA systems, and helps bridge equipment that does not talk to each other. The modular design of these solutions allows a turnkey system, or easy integration of any separate component of these solutions with 3rd party sensors, SCADA systems, database back-ends and partnership with other solution providers to add functionality to existing products in the marketplace. Enquiry no: 34

Reliable sewage submersible pumps

EO’s XSP range of single-phase sewage Lwater submersible pumps is designed for wastedrainage in factories, construction sites

A SOLUTION FOR YOUR EVERY NEED

…enhancing your success

LIFTING AND LOADING

FASSI F245

FASSI F1500

FASSI MINING APPLICATION

SAFELIFT

SOCAGE

HOOKLIFTS

SKIPLOADERS

WORK @ HEIGHT

ALTEC

CLEANING AND WASTE

R.E.L COMPACTORS

TEL: +27 (0) 31 705 2311 / 2 / 3

|

EMAIL: dbnsales@600sa.co.za

|

WEB: www.eiegroup.co.za

and commercial facilities. The pumps are also ideal for drainage systems in municipal treatment plants as well as in methane pools and for field irrigation. The XSP range is reliable, durable, economical and effectively transfers liquids with solids of up to 15 mm as well as long fibres. With the distinct design of the wetted parts, the pump has a wide flow range with a total head (non-overload) feature. The XSP is anti-

corrosive as it is constructed from stainless steel and special cast iron material. Complete drainage is achieved due to the bottom suction structure and its large channel helps to prevent the impeller from clogging. A float switch automatically turns the pump on/off according to the change in the liquid level. LEO is represented locally by Enquiry no: 35 RAPTECH.


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

Rubbish collectors into microentrepreneurs

I

n South Africa, 98 million tons of waste is still sent to landfill each year. Recycling initiatives remain limited and progress is slow and unemployment is a real nationwide problem. KZN businesswoman and founder of Supa Mama, Thina Maziya (pictured), is tackling both of these problems one refuse bag at a time. Supa Mama works with approximately 100 Kwa-Zulu Natal based, previously unemployed women who, after being trained in the types of plastic to collect, gather over 5 tons of plastic waste a week. The waste is recycled and turned into refuse bags that are sold in supermarkets around the province. Maziya’s innovative business model turns rubbish collectors, into micro-entrepreneurs, real Supa Mamas, and provides women with a weekly salary to help them feed their families. Maziya’s infrastructure cuts out the middleman and gives her the opportunity to deal directly with the ‘Mamas’ and therefore pay them the best price for their recycling efforts. “We realised that the Mamas were walking far to collect their plastic, and could not carry the waste collected over long distances, so we set up collection points around the province to assist them in increasing their volume. We’ve also set up a safe SMS weekly payment system via Absa CashSend so our Mama’s don’t have to carry cash,” says Maziya. Supa Mama bags are competitively priced, which gives the consumer at the store shelf the opportunity to choose between a regular refuse bag and one that will make a difference in people’s lives. “This is not a quick eco-conscious promotion. Eco and social enterprise is embedded in the DNA of our business. The more bags we sell, the more Mamas we can employ and the more waste we can save from landfill,” said Maziya. The Supa Mama brand was conceptualised in 2012 and is the flagship consumer brand offered by Verigreen Pty Ltd. Verigeen Pty Ltd, formerly Izaka Plastics, has been in the plastic manufacturing business since 2001.

Enquiry no: 36

Call to Reduce,

environmental management & control

F

15

Contaminated oil purified to ISO 4406 standard in three days

ollowing a cooler system “The Vacuum Dehydrator failure in early 2014, severe system was highly effective, water contamination was having cleaned the hydraulic experienced on an oil tank located oils to an ISO 4406 standard in at the Pietermaritzburg branch of three days - well ahead of any Hulamin - a leading manufacturer competitor products. Desiccant of high quality rolled and extruded breathers proved to be cost aluminium products for the local effective and performed well in and international market. keeping all the unwanted floatEngen FluidLink is the appointing particles out.” ed onsite lubrication manageThe internationally recogment provider at the Hulamin From left to right - oil prior to nised ISO 4406 cleanliness installation and oil after Pietermaritzburg facility, and site code quantifies particulate installation of Vacuum manager Gustav Groenewald contamination levels per ml Dehydrator reveals that water contamination of fluid at three sizes, namely; promotes oxidation and can lead 4 micron (µ), 6 µ, and 14 µ. to failures in components such The code is also expressed in as bearings and shaft journals, as well as the three numbers; 19, 17 and 14. Each number jamming of mechanisms such as pilot valves, represents a contaminant level code for the trip cylinders and hydraulic pistons. correlating particle size, and includes all partiHe explained that the Vacuum Dehydrator cles of the specified size. achieved outstanding results in unrivalled Filter Focus COO Craig FitzGerald notes time. “Maintaining the highest standards of oil that the Vacuum Dehydrator has been proven purity is one of the most critical priorities when to perform well beyond any competitor prodmaintaining a hydraulic system.” ucts. He explains: “Wet or emulsified oil is

drawn into the system under a vacuum. The first chamber is a quiet zone that leads to thermostat controlled heaters. The oil is then drawn into the vacuum separator under negative pressure and low humidity conditions.” He says that this provides the ideal environment to quickly and effectively evaporate dissolved or emulsified water and gases. “Vapours and gases enter the chiller/condensation unit and are released into the water receiver. Cleaner, drier oil is then passed back to the oil tank. Depending on the volume of water contamination, multiple passes are required to achieve target dehydration and cleanliness levels.” Groenewald believes that the Vacuum Dehydrator will provide Hulamin and FluidLink with cleaner oil in the future. “There is no doubt that Filter Focus will be able to assist us with keeping oils to an ISO 4406 standard in all our hydraulic applications. What’s more, the service from Filter Focus is cost effective, swift, precise and friendly, which is another major value-add,” he concludes. Enquiry no: 38

Providing Green-preneurs a unique way to barter waste for products

U

nilever SA is teaming up with the Wildlands Conservation trust to provide ‘green-preneurs’ with access to nutrition and hygiene packs, as part of the company’s goal of improving the livelihoods of consumers who use its products. The initiative forms part of the broader Unilever Sustainable Living plan, with specific and measurable targets for 2020.The company is committed to double its business, whilst halving environmental impact and increasing positive social impact. The Wildlands Conservation Trust is a nonprofit organisation that promotes ‘green-preneurship’ by enabling disadvantaged communities to collect recyclable waste and grow trees, which they then barter for livelihood support items such as groceries, bicycles, Jojo tanks, building materials and school fees. As part of the initiative, Unilever provides Wildlands with access to health and hygiene packs, which green-preneurs barter for collected waste. The packs contain products, such as Sunlight Laundry Bar, Knorrox, Lifebuoy Soap, Domestos, Rama, Pepsodent and Vaseline.

Ruedi Vogeli from Unilever is pictured with Ganephi Duma a Treepreneur from Swapo in Pietermaritzburg, who could not hide her excitement after receiving two grocery packs at a handover that took place on Friday, 16 May 2014.

One pack can be bartered for 70 kg’s of recyclable plastic, or between 20 to 40 indigenous trees grown (size dependant). “Wildlands do not ‘hand out’ livelihood support items,” said Wildland’s CEO Dr Andrew Venter, “we promote entrepreneurship with our barter - reward model based on national greening activities. When partners like Unilever come forward with items that can add value to the lives of our hard working green-preneurs, we

are extremely appreciative and grateful.” The first handover of packs took place on Friday 16th May in the Haniville community in KwaZulu Natal. Over 60 community members turned out for the day, many of whom who were previously unemployed, but are now able to support themselves and their families through the waste collection program.

Enquiry no: 39

Reuse and Recycle

T

waste properly

he Institute of Waste Management of Southern Africa (IWMSA) supports the views of the UN and its plight to reduce factors contributing to climate change. The growing environmental impact landfill sites have in South Africa needs to be addressed and every citizen can help reduce their environmental footprint. The most recent National Waste Information Baseline Report indicates that South Africa generated approximately 108 million tonnes of waste in 2011 where 98 million tonnes were disposed of at landfills. Only 10% of all waste generated was recycled during that year. According to Dr Suzan Oelofse, President of the IWMSA, landfill gas is a general term that describes the gas produced during the microbial degradation of organic waste in a landfill. Landfills are among the biggest producers of methane, a gas which is 21 times worse than carbon dioxide in terms of its so-called greenhouse effect and is a contributing factor to climate change. According to the Greenhouse Gas Inventory for South Africa, conducted from 2000 - 2010 and published in 2014, the total greenhouse gas emissions from solid waste disposal on land increased by 72.3% over a ten year period from 2000 to 2010. “Although the use of biogas from landfills to produce electricity is a good alternative to methane emissions in the environment, it should not be used to advocate landfilling as the best waste treatment option, since the present day trend is towards waste minimisation rather than towards waste disposal,” explains Oelofse.

Enquiry no: 37

Measure

The Real World

Analyse

Using Specialist Software and Computing Platforms

Manage

To Improve Results

CheckIT Systems specialises in Instrumentation, Measurement and Control and offers customised solutions by leveraging its alliance partnership with National Instruments. Call us on 0860 106 261 for a consult


June / July 2014

16

KZN Industrial & Business News

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

T

Sugar tariff triggered

he South African sugar not only sweetens your tea, but it stirs much needed socioeconomic development in some of the most job starved rural regions in our country. The sugar industry doesn’t only grow sugar cane, it grows the economy for the benefit of all South Africans. It is against this backdrop that the industry is pleased that the government recognised the need for a review of the Dollar Based Reference Price (DBRP) which gives the industry a tariff for the first time in more than four years. The level is lower than what the sugar industry applied for, how-

ever the industry is appreciative of the government’s support and believes it is a step in the right direction.

DBRP increased The DBRP has increased from US$ 358 per ton - which afforded no protection to the sugar industry - to US$566 per ton which has afforded some protection. The tariff is the difference between the DBRP and the world price which is based on a formula. This increase follows a long and thorough process by the International Trade Administration

Commission (ITAC). The Commission gazetted the sugar industry’s application for a revision of the tariff on 20 September 2013. The industry presented its case to the Commission which also received input from importers. Towards the end of 2013, it was reported that the situation had become most serious with cheap imported sugar flooding the South African market, threatening the sustainability of the industry and adversely affecting communities in job starved regions. Executive Director of the South African Sugar Association, Trix Trikam, said that the South African government has always understood and supported the necessity for protecting the industry and operated an import tariff aimed at protecting the industry from countries that are oversupplying the world market with sugar below the cost of their production. However, the import tariff had become ineffective as it was based on an outdated calculation that did not predict or cater for the Rand-Dollar exchange rate and the world sugar price levels that are common today, hence the review. Speaking on the outcome of the review, Mr Trikam said that although the level of US$566 will provide a measure of protection for the sugar

Sugar price amongst lowest in the world

the world and the cheapest in Africa. Further, ITAC found that general inflation levels dictate the price, regardless of cost increases or import competition. Minister Rob Davies from the Department of Trade and Industry, have agreed strategies for the sustainability and growth of the South African sugar industry. One of the strategies was to have an appropriate import tariff for sugar in place to ensure minimum imports of sugar. Currently the increased DBRP has provided some protection. Commenting on the review Unati Speirs, Chief Director of Agro Processing, Department of Trade and Industry, said that the government supported local industry, employment, growth and sustainability for our country as well as the region. Ms Speirs went on to say that the sugar imports had reached high levels in December and January, however she had noted that the DBRP increase had seen the situation equalised with the tariff curbing imports in the past few months. More than a million people depend on the South African sugar industry that makes a significant contribution to the socio-economic growth of South Africa and this cost competitive industry is ready for opportunities to contribute further to South Africa through renewable energy.

With regards to the impact on consumers, the retail price of South African sugar is amongst the lowest in

Enquiry no: 40

industry at current levels of world sugar prices and exchange rates, it is unlikely to be sustainable in the medium term, and there is a possibility that the tariff may not curb imports. The tariff is not a fixed amount and it is affected directly by world sugar prices and exchange rate fluctuations. The problem is that there is no correlation between the world price of sugar and the costs of production. The world price is below the cost of production because sugar producers globally are subsidised by their governments.

Reprinted with permission from the South African Sugar Journal

Contract for water-tube boilers Standing from left, Mr Hical, Procurement Manager, Mr Hery, Deputy Project Manager, Mr Andyo, Engineering Manager, all of Rekayasa with seated, Peter McIntyre and Shahana Mahomed both of John Thompson

J Tel: +27 31 701 3261/2

l

Fax: +27 31 701 8216

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

ohn Thompson, the Power Division of ACTOM (Pty) Ltd, has been designing and manufacturing water-tube boilers for the sugar industry since their factory was established near Cape Town 60 years ago. During this period they have supplied over 100 water-tube boilers to customers in local and international markets, the majority of which have been for the sugar industry. In a recent ground-breaking deal, John Thompson has won a multimillion rand contract to supply two 100 t/h capacity industrial water-tube boilers for a new sugar mill in Java, Indonesia. It was awarded the contract in the face of fierce international competition in November 2013. The boilers are for the Indonesian government’s new Glenmore sugar mill in Eastern Java. The contract was awarded to John Thompson by the EPC contractor for the project, PT Rekayasa Industri-Weltes Consortium based in Indonesia’s capital, Jakarta. It is the first contract for industrial water-tube boilers to be won by John Thompson in South-East Asia. The division is already well established in this market as a supplier of package boilers, with a strong base of customers in a variety of industries that include the food, textiles, chemical, rubber, animal feed, beverage and fishing industries. “John Thompson will design and manufacture the pressure parts, combustion equipment and other critical components, whilst fabrication of non-critical parts will be carried out by local contractors to John Thompson designs. “The boilers will be erected by local contractors under John Thompson’s guidance,” said Peter McIntyre, Consultant Engineering and Sales, John Thompson Industrial Water Tube Boilers. The boilers, each rated at 100 t/h with steam conditions of 47 bar(g) and 455 deg C are of the top-supported design to withstand the arduous local seismic conditions. The John Thompson supply contract is due for completion by the end of 2014 and the mill is scheduled to start-up in September 2015. The new sugar mill, featuring cutting-edge technology, will be the largest in Indonesia, with the capacity to crush 6 000 tons of cane per day. Enquiry no: 41


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

Water footprinting

Carl Haycock, MD for WSP Environment & Energy, Africa

T

he sugar industry is a major stakeholder in the agricultural industry in Sub-Saharan Africa – and more locally, in KwaZulu-Natal. Historically the coastal region of KZN was always known for its reliable rainfall patterns and this made the region well-suited to farm sugar as - from crop cultivation to steam production in the milling process - the sugar industry relies heavily on water. However, the quantity and quality of available water resources is becoming more strained. While the coastal region of KZN still has South Africa’s highest average annual precipitation, the rainfall patterns in this region are no longer as reliable as they once were and we can already recognise the impact that climate change and global warming are having on precipitation and resultant weather events. Added to this - in addition to agriculture - KZN is also an important hub for industrial development in sub-Saharan Africa and the expansion of other industries continues to place pressure on the environment in terms of water availability. With more variable precipitation, a growing population and an increased number of upstream water users demand is outstripping supply in industrialised areas and the costs of

meeting the demand requirements is escalating. As water is of fundamental importance for agricultural production, the risks to the availability and quality of water is forcing authorities and proactive companies to examine their water foot printing. This includes understanding and documenting where the industry gets its water from, what the water is being used for, potential losses or gains and, the related risks and opportunities - from both a corporate

and at an individual operations level. Water foot printing may not (yet) be conventional, in fact, it is often seen as a ‘grudge’ spend with no economic return other than to ward off regulatory, financial and reputational risk, or potential business closure which in itself is often unlikely due to social constraints. However, there is a huge industrial side to water in agricultural or agro-industrial businesses where, understanding the relationship of supply and usage provides a framework on which to develop systems for strategic management of this vital resource. Additionally, when working with engineering and environmental sustainability experts, such systems can be further customised for associated risk mapping – in the present and future - and compliance monitoring, to create a real-time tool that can identify economic opportunities or potential cost savings in terms of water use, product loss and possible downstream operations. The opportunity from such an “environmental management tool” is not only in its ability to document the risks and track compliance, but the meaningful management of this data for operations on the ground will also raise the flag early on so that risks can be appropriately managed. Moreover the knowledge that can be gained from this real-time management tool will empower the industry to replicate or continuously monitor these areas

2013-2014 Crushing season total cane delivered to the Mill by 2015/16. Much of this growth is expected to come from new entrant growers. The Glendale Valley Mansomini Project, consisting of approximately 300 hectares of new development over the last three years, received the accolade of the Minister of Land Reform and Development, Honourable Gugile Nkwinti. The role played by grower partners in improving the cane delivery and cane quality at Gledhow this season has been exemplary and augurs well for the future. The 2013/14 season experienced the lowest no-cane stops in the last 15 years. The prospect of realising Co-generation of Electricity at Gledhow over the next 5 year

T

he 2013/14 crushing season at Gledhow Sugar finished on 19 December 2013. The expected final crush for the season was in the region of 1,51 million tons of cane and a refined sugar production estimated to be +182,000 tons. The last time that Gledhow Mill recorded an annual crush exceeding 1,50 million tons of cane was in 1998/99 and the refined sugar make then was 173,985 tons. The impact and effect of the extensive replant, ratoon and rehabilitation of the cane farms over the last three years and the good seasonal rainfall measured, has been significantly positive and material in terms of the profitability of the Company. The Gledhow Sugar Company, in its fifth year of operation, has grown from strength to strength and is realising the objectives of the Board and its stakeholders. Gledhow continues in its quest of producing high quality EEC2 refined sugar for its industrial customers. Furthermore, Gledhow successfully retained its FSSC 22000 Certification following the surveillance audit held in November 2013. The Mill Risk Control Management Programme continues to be a strategic focus for the team and once again Gledhow was accredited with a 5 Star Safety NOSA grading. The Gledhow Sugar Company growth phases have almost reached full design milling capacity and the prospect for 2014/15 and beyond appears very good on all fronts. The initiatives with regard to Gledhow’s policy of transformation on land reform have been successfully executed, with significant growth measured in terms of cane delivered and to be delivered in future years. This growth is planned to be in the region of 49,0% of

plan is encouraging. The full and comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) study was expected by March 2014, thus allowing Gledhow to prepare the Power Procurement Agreement for the next round of bidding in 2014. To that effect the Board approved capital of R27 million from December 2013 for the first phase of three phases of a boiler upgrade and plant optimisation to enable the plant to generate in the region of 12-18 MW/h of exportable power on a seasonal basis. This also means that Gledhow Sugar, which currently uses in the region of 60,000 tons of coal, will be operating totally on renewable fuel by 2016/17. reprinted with permission from the South African Sugar Journal

Enquiry no: 43

themselves going forward, which drives continued improvement in terms of performance and compliance. However, adapting to more sustainable water management practices isn’t just about risk and regulation. In fact, a real-time water management tool will also inform both operational and executive level decisions within an organisation – and if used well, will ensure opportunities are capitalised on. For instance, the environmental and social wins include reduced water consumption, improved social access to clean water and enriched ecosystem health. Simultaneously, the potential business opportunities are numerous and include reduced operational costs and improved production efficiencies, aligned to shareholder expectations, enhanced com-

17 munity relations and augmented market access. Undertaking a comprehensive scientific approach to water foot printing across the business offers both great business reputational benefits and potentially significant savings in water and energy costs, as well as other process related enhancements that far outweigh the initial upfront costs. From implementing site-specific water monitoring and management initiatives, to corporate governance and reporting mechanisms, this level of water foot printing is designed to support strategic decision making – robustly and legitimately – thus integrating the environmental aspects of the business into the business of making money sustainably. Enquiry no: 42


18

June / July 2014

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

KZN Industrial & Business News

Diffuser chain for Felixton R sugar mill S alchain (Pty) Ltd manufactured and supplied a 1.2 km, 500mm pitch replacement diffuser chain to Tongaat Hulett’s Felixton sugar mill in KwaZulu-Natal. The chain, which weighs 90 tons and has a breaking strength in excess of 300 tons, is used to convey shredded cane through a diffuser machine which extracts sucrose by circulating hot water over the cane. This diffuser system has a greater extraction rate than conventional systems. The chain was manufactured to strict quality control standards to ensure full compliance with internationally recognised chain specifications. The components were manufactured from high quality materials, with the inner and outer links forged from EN19

alloy steel which provides good shock resistance, ductility, greater strength and reduced wear. The pins and bushes were produced from high grade stainless steel. Salchain’s range of diffuser chains have operated efficiently over the past 10 years. Salchain is the leading South African manufacturer of conveyor and elevator chains for industrial applications and has supplied these throughout the world for over 40 years.

Based in Germiston, Gauteng, the company serves a diverse range of markets including sugar mills, coal mining, cement, timber, pulp and paper to name a few. Felixton, Tongaat Hulett’s largest South African sugar mill has an installed capacity to crush more than 2.8 million tons of cane per year from which at least 320 000 tons of sugar can be produced. Enquiry no: 44

On-line colour monitoring of sugar real-time

ecently, a major raw sugar producer was seeking to improve the company’s process control methods in order to reduce production costs, while maintaining the sugar colour that is characteristic of sugar as required by customers. The company had found that supplying this sugar with a lower ICUMSA colour – an indication of higher quality – and in demand by clients, was resulting in a increase in production costs. The current process control methods in this industry involve colour measurements of sugar in a solution. These methods are both time consuming and are generally not useful for real-time process control. In response to this demand, EMX Industries Inc. has developed the BriteX sensor that provides in-process relative colour measurements of sugar allowing real-time process adjustments. The sensor monitors the colour as the sugar exits the centrifugals, thus allowing optimization of the process and allowing for a con-

i

The Ethernet interface also provides remote maintenance with storage of error images and evaluation data, an update option for the sensors, as well as the process image for the connection of programmable logic controllers. ifm’s 02V100 vision sensor is ideal for monitoring presence, completeness, position, size and quality, as well as sorting tasks.

Enquiry no: 46

PASSIONATE ABOUT

THE ENVIRONMENT WSP’S ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY TEAM OFFERS A WIDE RANGE OF SPECIALIST SERVICES TO ENSURE OUR CLIENTS CAN DEVELOP SUSTAINABLY.

JOHN THOMPSON designs, manufactures, installs, operates and maintains industrial boiler plant for process steam and power generation applications as well as retrofits, services and maintains utility boilers and environmental equipment.

I

Enquiry no: 45

Optical object inspection

fm electronic’s 02V100 is a standalone vision sensor designed to provide optical object inspection for packaging, manufacturing and quality control processes. The sensor features integrated illumination, a compact and robust design, user-friendly parameter setting and Ethernet process interfaces. The stand-alone unit offers integrated lighting and evaluation in a robust, industrially compatible IP 67 housing for use in a -10 to 60°C temperature range. User-friendly parameter settings can be set conveniently via a menu-guided parameter setting software. The blob analysis used determines the selected characteristics of objects and checks the presence, size, position or completeness of the objects.

Cape Town: +27 (0)21 959 8400 nicov@johnthompson.co.za

sistent product which meets the ICUMSA colour requirements. The sensor provides measurement data that can be correlated to ICUMSA color allowing tighter process control. The BriteX analog output signal is monitored by the control system to track sugar colour at various stages. In addition to the analog output signal, the BriteX provides a user adjustable threshold level and a discrete output that indicates when the measured level exceeds the threshold. The BriteX colour- monitoring system provides a cost-effective alternative to time consuming, labour-intensive manual sugar colour measurements. The BriteX sensor is available locally through Opaque Reference Equipment.

Johannesburg: +27 (0)11 392 0900

I

Durban: +27 (0)31 408 9700

www.johnthompson.co.za

• • • • • • • • • •

Air Quality Management Climate Change & Sustainability Contaminated Land & Remediation EHS Systems & Compliance Environmental Acoustics Environmental Due Diligence Environmental Planning & Permitting Risk Management Waste Strategy & Planning Water Management & Planning

Learn more on www.wspgroup.co.za


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

Sezela land reform

By Silinde Gumede – Regional Economic Advisor: South Coast

O

nce transfer has taken place on a farm, the choice of management is important as this plays a critical role in determining whether the farm will remain economically productive thereby securing its sustainability as well as cane supply for the mill area. The Sezela cane supply area has 2043 growers comprising of large scale, land reform and small-scale growers who collectively produced approximately 1, 7 million tons of sugarcane during the 2013/14 season. Government’s land redistribution programme has brought about a significant increase in the number of emergent black farmers entering the sugar industry. As we attempt to reach Government’s stated 30% land redistribution or target, it is important to reflect on progress made in the sugar industry

ers. It is not surprising that these growers choose to self-manage their farms. It can be inferred that even though mentorship and guidance was provided to these growers during the early days of farming, more still needs to take place. Once again, the new growers encountered economic and technical difficulties involved in

farming sugarcane and production started to decline on these farms. By the year 2012, these farms were producing on average 55% of the total production prior to transfer. The miller provides assistance in several ways, such as providing advances for input costs during off-crop. However, this later proved unsustainable due to the growing number of distressed farms. The situation also prevailed amongst fellow land reform growers that acquired farms through the PLAS, and LRAD programmes. It then became apparent that intervention was required. However, this did not come easy as these growers were reluctant to accept intervention measures as they did not wish to be seen as failures. It was clear that mentorship in the form of agronomic extension and

19

economic advisory was needed and the miller could not do it alone. In partnership with the miller, experienced farmers availed their services to mentor these growers under the Illovo Sugar mentorship scheme. Growers are still involved in the daily management of their own farms with the mentor being present on the farm on a frequent basis and also available to assess capital requirements and working capital requirements. The miller provides a financial compensation to the mentor according to tons delivered thus paying according to work done. This has proved to be a mutually beneficial relationship for all parties involved. The lesson learnt in this aspect is that it is important to not rely solely on the miller to maintain cane supply. By pooling local grower experience, the miller was able to reach a higher number of distressed growers. With regard to PLAS farms, we learnt that proper selection of beneficiaries and close monitoring by Government officials will assist in retaining productive farms. The sugar industry has a responsibility to influence this process. – reprinted with permission from The Cane Grower

Enquiry no: 47

Restitution Projects Sezela has one of the most extensive land restitution programmes in the sugar industry. Half of the land redistribution taking place in this area comprises of land claim beneficiaries with more transfers anticipated in the near future. With the objective of empowering the beneficiaries prior to the land transfer, the Sezela Land Reform Committee has established local Project Steering Committees (PSCs) comprising all stakeholders and which conducts a Post Settlement Options Workshop. These workshops empower the beneficiaries to make informed decisions as to how the newly acquired farm will be managed taking into consideration available knowledge, skills and resources. The sugar industry proposes the following settlement models which aim towards self-management for restitution claimants. • Self-Management with Mentorship; • Self-Management with a suitably qualified Manager; • Lease to independent lessee/s; • Co-Management; and • Lease and Joint Venture The transfer of farms to land claim beneficiaries started as early as 2008. The majority of these beneficiaries, three communities at that time, entered into long term leases with the previous farm owners or to neighbouring farmers who possessed the experience and knowledge of farming a sugarcane farm. Hence, we see lease agreements mostly amongst the restitution projects. In recent years, restitution farms (communities) have chosen not to enter into lease agreements. This can be attributed to beneficiaries gaining interest in farming as they see the surge of fellow land reform farmers; but more notably the introduction of the Government’s RADP policy which provides recapitalisation grant funding to distressed farms. Farms which are under lease agreement do not quality for this grant funding. As a result, land claimants were keen to get involved in the management of their farms with a higher number of them opting for selfmanagement. This is a challenge; especially in instances where it was obvious that self-management was not the best option for the farm and community. In addition to the many challenges and hurdles that come with farming, these farms further faced the complexities of functioning as community projects resulting in a decline in cane supply. The industry has since intervened and made great strides to resuscitate the affected farms cane supply. The identification of farm’s facing management challenges as opposed to finance etc. was critical. These projects have since been encouraged to enter into management and mentorship agreements with either a suitably qualified manager or the miller. This type of management ensures that beneficiaries continue to be involved in the daily management of the farm whilst gaining the support and skills transfer provided by their farm manager or mentor. Farms that have adopted this change have seen an improvement in their production levels and have started to experience a sense of stability on their farm. It is critical to be forward thinking and honest when advising new land beneficiaries prior to farm transfer as opposed to taking a reactive approach. The situation for beneficiaries for land redistribution (willing buyer-willing seller) was different to land restitution (land claims). Illovo Sugar Limited’s Sezela land reform programme took place in 1997, 1999, and 2002; namely Mgayi, Humberdale and Ifafa, and Equeefa respectively. In comparison to their restitution counterparts, these growers did not have to consider decision- making processes involving trusts and beneficiaries and, as individuals, were more motivated to be successful sugarcane grow-

Covering the full spectrum of your welding needs

Afrox Premium Electrodes Use our easy colour-coded system to choose from our extensive range of premium electrodes - perfect for welding a wide range of materials. With Afrox, you know you are welding with world-class quality. AFROX Customer Service Centre: 0860 020202

Consumables 300x210.indd 1

Email: customer.service@afrox.linde.com

www.afrox.com

2012/12/05 11:26 AM


June / July 2014

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

20

T SPP Pumps (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd are authorized distributors of the Global Sterling Fluid Systems Group originally founded in 1895. Our experience spans all pumps and associated parts, but is not limited to those designed and manufactured by SPP and Sterling Fluid Systems. The extensive SPP, SiHi, Halberg and LaBour range of specialist pumps is a prime example of the extent of our capability.

JHB / Head office: 011 393 7181/2 ph@spppumps.co.za www.spppumps.com

Specializing in : Unistream, Thrustream, Eurostream, Aquastream and Instream pumps supply, spares and service. Also including fire prevention sets.

PE Branch:

KZN Branch:

CT Branch:

041 364 0204 ft@spppumps.co.za

031 700 3773 ng@spppumps.co.za

021 852 3962 rh@spppumps.co.za

Partnering for success

ongaat Hulett Sugar South Africa increased sugar production by 30% from 486 000 tons to 634 000 tons in the 2013/2014 season. This was achieved through the focus on increasing supply of sugarcane to the four company mills. The company partners with commercial growers, government, small scale rural farmers and the Ingonyama Trust to improve productivity of existing sugarcane farms and expand areas under cane through small scale grower programmes. The substantial increase in productivity serves to demonstrate the effectiveness of this focus on partnership. “Tongaat Hulett is committed to its strategic objective of increasing the supply of sugarcane to its mills and through the establishment of small scale growers it is able to meet these objects while at the same time playing a significant role in the development of successful and sustainable rural communities in the areas that surround its operations,” said Peter Staude,

B

MG’s total plant maintenance solutions service is geared to optimising productivity and enhancing process plant operating reliability to make a difference to the efficiencies of every plant. “BMG, which distributes an extensive range of quality branded engineering components, has identified a need in diverse sectors for on-site maintenance services to overcome production challenges,” says Dave Russell, director, BMG. “Recognising the extreme constraints of high energy prices, low productivity, the critical skills shortage and a highly competitive economic environment, BMG brings a total solutions service to the fore.” “Industry can now access all critical production efficient products and services from one supplier. What this means is lower production costs and higher production efficiency, giving South African industry a distinct competitive advantage. “BMG’s on-site services include application design, evaluation and optimisation,

Sauce Advertising 22320

RENT THE RIGHT SIZE RIGHT NOW

For more information on Linde dealerships, products and services contact us on Tel : +27 31 716 7460 or visit www.linde-mh.co.za.

Tongaat Hulett CEO. The company assists rural community members throughout the transition to commercial sugarcane farmers. Working within associations, these growers pool their land so as to increase the economies of scale of their farming activities. Training and development as well as extension services and even assistance in procuring inputs is provided by Tongaat Huletts and the various

project partners work together to unlock funding. In the last three years 24 979 hectares of sugarcane has been planted, creating some 6 250 direct jobs in rural areas in KwaZulu-Natal. These rural areas often have high unemployment levels and very few employment opportunities. Tongaat Hulett plans to increase sugar production further, by more than 25% to 808 000 tonnes, by 2017/18 which will again require a substantial increase in cane supplies. 89% of this increase will come from new plantings by third parties. The company is further partnering with stakeholders to unlock the future potential of renewable energy through ethanol and electricity generation which will increase benefits to the both the company and its suppliers as well as to the KZN economy as a whole through increased stability in energy supplies and increased employment. Enquiry no: 48

Onsite plant maintenance

WHATEVER YOUR LOAD

The multi-faceted handling capabilities of our equipment means that Linde machines are perfectly equipped for big jobs, small jobs, and everything in between. With our comprehensive logistical know-how, Linde has fast become the industry hallmark for superior quality, seamless functionality, and innovation. Available to buy, rent or lease on hire purchase, investing in any of our remarkably efficient Linde family members is an investment in the future.

KZN Industrial & Business News

Linde Material Handling

as well as installation, trouble shooting and service exchange contracts. “The company also offers predictive, planned and breakdown maintenance and energy and reliability studies. “These plant maintenance solutions ensure machine reliability, efficient maintenance procedures and optimum control in breakdown situations. “The company’s team of highly skilled technicians has completed health and safety training and all services adhere to company policies and procedures in terms of ISO 18001. “BMG also offers extensive training, which covers electrical, mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic, electronic and materials handling disciplines, as well as predictive maintenance and component failure analysis.” Services include electromechanical, electronic and hydraulic,

as well as unitary and bulk materials handling installations, which are supported by troubleshooting and maintenance. BMG also provides bearings, power transmission and engineering MRO installations, predictive maintenance and non intrusive trouble shooting (which includes condition monitoring and oil analysis) as well as energy consumption and efficiency studies, baseline measurement, recommendations and improvement suggesEnquiry no: 49 tions.

Sweep angle control valves for erosive liquids

A

range of Sweep Angle Control valves is available from Mitech for use with highly erosive liquids where pressures and/or temperatures are too high for pinch valves or similar slurry valves. The valves are also ideal for applications where severe flashing is expected. Modular in design, the valves are available in sizes from 1”to 16” and if required, larger sizes are available on request. The Sweep Angle Control valve has flange rat-

ings of up to #2 500. The plug and seat can be manufactured in hard material, up to and including tungsten carbide or other ceramics and the body can be bronzed or coated with high velocity spray coated tungsten carbide in critical areas. The valve has a flowto-close configuration and few components in the

flow path which eliminates any sharp changes in direction. The seat ring is clamped between the valve body and the downstream pipe work, eliminating the need for a traditional retainer or cage. Typical applications for the valve include those found in mining, petrochemical, food, pulp and paper and power generation industries. Enquiry no: 50


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

UCL sugar mill 2013 season A

fter a busy 2012 in which a number of strategic alterations took place, 2013 presented UCL with an excellent opportunity to bed the changes and begin realising the benefits of their preceding efforts. The company continued to make improvements to its physical infrastructure and administrative systems in support of operational initiatives. 2012 saw the first opportunity to run new equipment for a full season and made it possible to stream line new operations and improve performance. The 2013/2014 season was one of their better seasons on record in terms of tonnages. The average yield was up by 10% against the long term mean although quality was an issue until late in the season. Approximately a quarter of the crop was diverted to other mills. Conditions remained dry for the most part during winter although early September showers did provide some initial relief. Despite the dry winter the average RV stayed low for the first five

form at high time efficiencies and consistent throughput. This pressure helped both Engineering and Production teams to focus on implementing further improvements to the plant. The absence of rain stretched the window of opportunity for good quality cane supply with notable relief from high ash levels in cane and decreasing cane purities often associated with the end of the season. During this period, plant availability and overall performance continued to improve to the benefit of all stakeholders. The mill did particularly well during the latter half of the year in surpassing more recent average weekly crush rates which reflects the attention given to reliability. The mill’s work towards quality assurance accreditation and food safety compliance continues and the improvements in this sphere are notable. This work includes extensive training and investment in UCL’s employees to equip them with the

months of the season. It eventually started climbing towards the end of winter, assisted by the below average rainfall for September and the first half of October. This resulted in an unusual straight line RV curve for 2013. A unique mixture of annual and two-year cane together with frost and dextran presented another year of interesting challenges for the factory. The past two seasons’ good rains provided an excellent cane crop which put pressure on the factory to per-

Corrosion-resistant materials for KZN

N

DE’s manager in Westmead, Charles Krog, has brought changes to the branch which opened in 1978 during growing activity in KwaZuluNatal’s sugar industry. “Over the years we have supplied stainless steel products to all of KZN’s primary industries, from sugar to paper and pulp, dairy, beverage and food, and a variety of engineering and fabrication companies,” says Charles. “We were innovative in the region for the introduction of LDX2101 and 2-metre wide plate which is now considered a staple of our stainless steel

W

range,” he says. A new addition to NDE’s stockholding for the engineering industry is machine-friendly 303 round bar with the same corrosion-resistance as grade 304 but preferred for its machine-friendly qualities. A recent involvement was in architecture and construction with NDE supplying decorative tubing for one of Durban’s newest environmentally-friendly corporate headquarters, the ‘green’ CHEP building. In addition to choosing environmentally-friendly stainless steel, CHEP’s other green initiatives included air-

ing season. UCL’s 2014 season started in early March in order to maximise the available crush time while reducing exposure to the wet conditions prevalent during December. Printed with permission from the South African Sugar Journal

Enquiry no: 51

PRODUCTS & SOLUTIONS to make the handling of bulk materials CLEANER, SAFER and MORE PRODUCTIVE.

conditioning from a chilled water system which reduces electricity consumption considerably; windows on all facades except the south, are heavily Belt Cleaners • Transfer Point Solutions • Air Cannons screened with louvres to reduce solar heat build-up; the electric lights are on Vibration • Dust Management • Silo Cleaning a motion sensor system that switches the offices lights off automatically when the offices are unoccupied. NDE’s speciality in environmentallycall +27(0)13 656 5135 | visit martin-eng.co.za friendly stainless steel and aluminium email service@martin-eng.com supply includes a significant stockholding for walk-in clients as well as ® Registered trademark of Martin Engineering Company fast turnaround deliveries to compain the US and other select locations. © 2013 Martin Engineering Company. Additional information can be nies and project clients, supported obtained at www.martin-eng.com/trademarks. A global company. Est. 1944 by years of experience and technical E:\!BMG\#Jobs\Adverts\2014\052014\BMG-SUG22052014-KZN.cdr advice.

Perfectly sized pumps

atson-Marlow Pumps Group (WMPG) has introduced three new models to its MasoSine range of sinusoidal pumps. Two of the new models – the SPS 250 and the SPS 500 – provide customers with an even greater choice of pump sizes for a wider range of applications. The third new model – the SPS 600L - provides a cost effective solution for higher capacity applications. MasoSine pumps have an exclusive sinusoidal rotor which overcomes the limitations of conventional rotary lobe pumps to produce powerful suction with low shear, low pulsation and gentle handling which the performance and features expected from the MasoSine SPS range. Widely regarded to be the pump of choice for the food industry, MasoSine are highly reliable, economic pumps ideally suited to high pressure, hygienic operations. The SPS pumps also ensure superior viscous handling

necessary insight and on-the-job skills. The implementation of further controls in both operational and administrative processes is on-going. Off crop preparations are well underway and UCL expects to see the results of increased planning activities during the com-

21

capability delivering powerful suction up to 0.85 bar. This allows products with viscosities from 1cp to 8 million cP to be transferred with ease. SPS series pumps offer capacity up to 99.0 m³/hr and pressures up to 15 bar thanks to their heavy duty construction. They can safely pump high viscosity products, while their innovative yet simple design allows economical in-process maintenance. With a single shaft and rotor, there is no need for the complex timing gears and multiple seals associated with conventional rotary lobe pumps. Hygiene and product quality are two factors of paramount importance at food manufacturing plants. MasoSine pumps have a simple construction which makes them suitable for clean-in-place, steam-in-place or manual cleaning. Manual cleaning requires no special skills or tools and can be performed in-place Enquiry no: 53 by a line operative.

22 May 2014 07:45:23 AM Color profile: Enquiry Disabled no: Composite Default screen

52


22

June / July 2014

FOCUS ON THE SUGAR INDUSTRY

KZN Industrial & Business News

World class owner-run sugar producer U mfolozi Sugar Mill is now into a customer orientated business set to become one of the most model. The international status of admired sugar cane produc- this accreditation also opens new ers in South Africa because of the high value markets among blue chip quality of the sugar produced in companies. this owner-run mill. In July 2013, The FSSC 22000 standard specithe mill received world class food fies requirements for a food safesafety status when they were ty management system where an awarded the sought after and much organisation in the food chain needs acclaimed global food safety stand- to demonstrate its ability to conard, the international Food Safety trol food safety hazards in order to System Creditation (FSSC 22000). ensure that the food is safe at the According to CEO, Dr Adrian Wynne time of human consumption. Any the FSSC 22000 is the “Rolls company, regardless of size, that is Royce” of quality standards in the involved in any aspect of the food food industry and makes USM sugar chain and wanting to implement syscompetitive in both the local and tems that consistently provide safe international markets. products can apply for accreditation. The mill’s strategic challenges, Wynne believes that the compaaccording to Wynne lies not only in ny’s strength and ability to achieve expanding the company’s cane sup- and improve year-on-year lies in ply on a sustainable basis but also in the pride and passion with which maintaining high cane throughput for everyone in the company is driven the entire season. The recent FSSC towards continuous improvement 22000 global food accreditation and superior value creation for all demonstrates that the mill has suc- stakeholders. cessfully made the transition away Since changing hands during from supplied ‘bulk’ export 1 sugar 2009, owner-run wmb-719 SA bredel duo_Layout 16/06/2014 12:30 Page 1 USM keeps rais-

Reduce maintenance and operating costs • Qdos metering pumps slash chemical costs with accurate and linear flow, even when process conditions vary • ReNu pumphead fully sealed for life, one minute maintenance

• Dry running, self-priming Bredel hose pumps for flows to 100 m3/h and up to 16 bar • Ideal for abrasive products, high viscosity and shear sensitive fluids

• Peristaltic design means no costly valves, seals or liners to gas lock or maintain

ing eyebrows with their remarkable achievements. And their customers agree, rating their service, pricing, reputation and ethics highly. During normal climatic seasons the mill’s cane supply comprises 1 200 000 tons of which approximately 65% is produced on the Umfolozi flats and delivered on the narrow gauge railway. The mill has a tippler system for the offloading of the trams and a spiller system for road deliveries. The balance of the cane is delivered by road, which includes significant supply by Small Scale Growers, who comprise numerous plots of approximately 1.5 hectares each. These Small Scale Growers have recently become shareholders in USM and are now represented on USM’s Board of Directors. Almost all of the bulk raw sugar produced at USM is exported and USM’s bagging plants service both the industrial and wholesale markets. Umfolozi Sugar Mill is affectionately known as USM and situ-

A

USM received world class food safety status when they were awarded the international Food Safety System Creditation (FSSC 22000) during July 2013. ated between the world heritage Isimangaliso Wetlands Park on the KwaZulu Natal North Coast and the Hluhluwe Umfolozi game reserve in the heart of Zululand. The present mill had its origins back in 1916 following a concession granted in 1913 to the St Lucia Sugar Company to

mill sugar cane at Umfolozi. Today, it comprises a consortium of UCOSP Limited, UVS, Charl Senekal and NCP Alcohols formed on 1 April 2009. reprinted with permission from the South African Sugar Journal

Enquiry no: 54

Dryer range for efficiency

tlas Copco Compressor Technique’s range of heat blown desiccant air dryers are designed and engineered to focus on maximum efficiency and reduced power consumption. In today’s climate of ever-increasing costs and depletion of the earth’s valuable and limited recourses, serious consideration to lower input and operational costs is fundamental to sustainable production. “Efficient operation offers the added advantage of extending equipment life, a valuable contributor to low total cost of ownership and rapid return on investment,” notes Atlas Copco Compressor Technique Business Line Managers for Industrial Air Division and Oil Free Air, respectively, Charl Ackerman and Pieter van Wyk. These are some of the benefits offered by Atlas Copco’s class leading, cost effective and reliable BD100300 dryer range. With five models to choose from the BD dryers are engi-

neered to operate reliably in diverse ambient conditions with capacities from 100 l/s (212 cfm) to 300 l/s (636 cfm). The fully packaged units feature two-stage inlet filtration, single-stage outlet filtration, galvanised piping, fork lift slots and a regeneration air manifold as standard and are delivered complete with filtration and microprocessor controls for quick, easy installation. Operational and performance reliability is achieved by using stainless steel check valves, a 100% stainless steel three-way valve and blow-off silencer with integrated safety, in the manufacturing process. The standard units include a pressure dew point monitor as well as an array of temperature and pres-

sure sensors that signal the ‘Elektronikon’ control system to dynamically adjust the dryer’s operation. These controls optimise the operation of heaters and blowers to ensure maximum utilisation of each desiccant bed and result in significant and measurable reduction of energy consumption. The addition of an optional AirMonitorTM or communication box provides the possibility for browser-based remote monitoring, complete remote control via profibus or modbus while the Elektronikon controller provides complete digital annunciation. These broad, flexible monitoring possibilities allow unprecedented levels of user convenience for a diversity of installations across the industry. Enquiry no: 55

Lockout/Tagout devices for plant-safety

N

ew to Magnet’s extensive portfolio of electrical equipment, industrial instrumentation and automation systems, are robust lockout/tagout devices, designed to restrict access to hazardous equipment, thus minimising the risk of accidents or injury of employees. “These new locally manufac-

JOHANNESBURG: Tel: +27 11 796-2960 RUSTENBURG: Tel: + 27 14 596-6695 CAPE TOWN: Tel: + 27 21 852-3649 DURBAN: Tel: + 27 31 512-5122

wmpg.com info@wmbpumps.co.za

tured lockout/tagout devices, which ensure optimum protection of high risk machinery, are specially labelled to individual requirements, to warn against the dangers of equipment in industrial environments,” says Brian Howarth, managing director, Magnet. “A plant, which has implemented the correct lockout/tagout procedures,

Gardner Denver NASH liquid ring vacuum pumps taking on the Sugar Industry.

Vac-Cent Services (Pty) Ltd licensee manufacturers of Gardner Denver NASH liquid ring Vacuum pumps and Compressors in South Africa, servicing the Southern African market. Specialist services include repairs and testing all types of Liquid ring vacuum pumps for the Paper, Mining, Sugar, Chemical, Food & Beverage and General process industries.

100% locally manufactured www.vaccent.co.za ~ 0861 VACUUM

The Vectra XL single stage vacuum pump is ideal for evaporators with vacuum levels down to 34 mBar

Wadeville 124 Snapper rd, Wadeville, (T) +27 11 827 1536, (F) +27 11 827 3590 Durban 6 Joseph Ave, Durban North, (T) +27 31 572 4495, (F) +27 31 572 4535

minimises the risk of injury or accidents caused by negligence during maintenance and repairs of electrical equipment. “These devices are designed to the specific lock-out requirements of leading circuit breaker manufacturers, including Schneider, ABB, Siemens, Eaton and Mitsubishi. Whether the panel door is open or closed, this lockout/tagout system ensures absolute safety. “By disengaging lockout HASPS - which are safety precaution devices used to fasten a door or gate - the employee acknowledges awareness of the potential danger of machinery in the restricted area. This system is more effective than simply having a danger sign alongside equipment.” Keys are stored in distinctly marked safety enclosures, which are mounted on a wall close to the machinery. These enclosures act as a safety check points to prevent the inadvertent start-up of a machine that is undergoing repair or maintenance. Included in this range are plug, cable, valve, cylinder and pneumatic lockouts, as well as circuit breaker and electrical panel devices. Magnet also supplies lockout padlocks and accessories, lockout and tagout stations and hanging and self adhesive signs and labels. These corrosion resistant devices, which withstand operation in harsh and hazardous environments, ensure enhanced safety of LV and HP panels, transformer rooms, crushers, rollers and shunting equipment, as well as caging around machinery. Enquiry no: 56


June /July 2014

23

KZN Industrial & Business News

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS Test and certification company benefits from portable tester

O

ne of the UK’s leading test and product certification providers is using the versatile HAL 103 multi-function safety tester from Clare, represented in South Africa by Test Instruments Africa (TIA), benefiting from the tester’s multifunction capability and portability. TÜV SÜD undertakes safety testing of electrical items ranging from IT, telecommunications and white goods through to brown goods, laboratory products and medical devices, both in its own laboratories and at manufacturers’ premises. This often involves scheduling testing at short notice anywhere in the country to ensure products comply with relevant safety standards and are safe for use by customers once they leave the factory gate. Previously, engineers had to use three separate testers to carry out earth bond, insulation resistance and HiPOT (flash) testing. Now, in a move which has seen TÜV SÜD replace its older, much less portable, testers, the company is using two portable HAL 103 units, which enable its team of 18 engineers to move quickly from site-to-site undertaking three important electrical safety tests using a single portable instrument. Safety Compliance manager Richard Poate, based at the company’s Fareham headquarters, said the Clare HAL 103 is an excellent tester,

S

delivering time-saving benefits. “The great advantage for us is that the HAL 103 is portable, making it easy to transport to different locations. This enables our engineers to complete test programmes easily and efficiently, while ensuring quality of service is never compromised.” “It’s also a very reliable and flexible tester, enabling the operator to simply complete the required tests and accurately record the results all at once, at the press of a button.” The HAL103 meets the requirements of demanding production line, type testing or electronic design applications - performing the complete suite of standard electrical safety tests and allowing full traceability of test results and records via internal data memory storage. The tester performs earth bond, AC/ DC hi pot (flash) and insulation testing to ensure the compatibility of Class

II electrical products with technical and performance standards. Tests can be applied individually or in set automatic sequences for repetitive multi-test routines. Test specifications can be quickly configured into the tester by scanning in predefined bar codes making the equipment ideal for ISO traceable systems in QA, conformance and production line applications. These pre-defined bar codes can be generated directly from the tester on adhesive labels or from proprietary Microsoft PC applications. The HAL 103 has selectable 50 or 60 Hz output frequencies for flash testing and incorporates a 40A constant current low voltage ground bond test. Other features include a large high contrast bar graph display of the mOhm value from 0 to 1,000 and of the programmed output current in Amps. Specialist software and a large capacity internal database capable of storing up to 6000 records gives the test instrument the ability to store test details and results against individual equipment serial numbers. Test reports can be downloaded directly to a PC or printer for the generation of complete test data records. The instrument is fully compatible with the requirements of the EN 50191 standard on test environments.

LED lights for all applications

C

ontrol InstrumentsAutomotive, the sole supplier of the VisionX range of LED lights for Southern Africa, has extended its LED lighting range to now include over 750 models. Leonard Chester, product manager - Control InstrumentsAutomotive, the sole VisionX distributor, said the applications now cover both open pit and underground mining. The range includes structural lighting for areas such as workshops, roasters, wash bays, crushers, trucks, conveyor systems and lighting for large outdoor areas. VisionX has worked with over 500 mines around the world and its customers include Glencore Xstrata, BHP, Rio Tinto, Anglogold, Kinross and Phelps Dodge. The key products are the Pit Master, Ripper, Shockwave and Solstice. The Pit Master is designed for rope shovels and structural lighting complemented by the Ripper range which is attached to the ripper mount on a bulldozer where high-vibration will damage most other lighting products. The Shockwave series provides a durable fluorescent upgrade alternative for flat-mount applications with a 150° lighting spread and the Solstice Prime Solo Pod gives area lighting for ladders,

platforms and entrances. Within the product range, the use of 304 stainless steel in preference to 316 stainless steel provides twice the carbon, giving increased strength and higher vibration tolerance. Phosphorescent paint charges off its own power or from other incoming light sources and glows when power is removed. This provides a safety indicator for approaching vehicles. Vision X’s Prime Drive Thermal Management technology regulates the temperature of the lights to an exterior housing temperature of 55°C. As a result, there is no risk of touch burns and the lower temperature gives the LEDs a longer life. Chester says the LED lights provide a 70% reduction in power consumption over current OE lighting systems. “There is a 26% increase in light output on effective work areas (measured in LUX on the work surface in 12 critical points) and an 80% decrease in light pollution based on stray light lost into the surroundings and into oncoming equipment.” The lights include a built-in redundancy to completely eliminate unscheduled maintenance. They have ROHS-compliant components which contain no lead or mercury and have no hazardous disposal requirements. Enquiry no: 60

Enquiry no: 57

Cabling the way for KZN

pecialist cable manufacturer, Helukabel has opened a new sales branch in Durban to support the growing economic importance of industries in the KwaZulu Natal and East Coast regions of South Africa. According to Helukabel South Africa managing director, Doug Gunnewegh, demand for all types of cable supplied by the company is booming throughout the region,and has grown to the point where it requires full-time, hands-on specialists to work with and advise customers on a daily basis. “We want to put our people closer to the action in this area and be in a position to give customers the kind of quality service that they deserve. “The volume of cables that we are

supplying into the area at the moment also definitely warrants our investment in local skills to further enhance business,” says Doug. Since entering the South African market nearly four years ago, the German precision cable supplier has been inundated with orders for its quality cabling solutions. The East Coast is no different and there has been a marked increase in the requirement for the full spectrum of products offered by the company. The range includes industrial and infrastructure cables and wires, data network and bus technology, custom cables, accessories, robotics, fibre and installation tools. Speciality cables for applications as diverse as ports, railways, renewable energy, hygienic environments, and

extreme temperatures etc can also be ordered and technical expertise is available locally and through global development centres to custom make cables to suit any application. “Our strength is derived from our broad range, stock availability, technical expertise and ability to supply quality German-made products at an affordable price. Our cables also carry various European and other global approvals and certifications and in addition we will also commit to keeping sufficient stock of any specified cable where recurring orders are to be placed,” says Doug The Durban branch is staffed by experienced campaigners with an intimate knowledge of the cabling industry in KZN and surrounds. Paul Bester (pictured) is the regional branch manager and is assisted by Irwin Moodley in sales. The branch is situated in Enquiry no: 58 Queensburgh.

New Process Measurement Solution

Head Office: 012 661 0830 KZN Sales: 082 773 6737 WC Sales: 082 784 0088

www.loadtech.co.za

One starter for multi KW motors requently, and especially in the minF ing industry, there is a need to rate one

Working in a process environment such as pharmaceutical, refining or other industrial area can be challenging. Whether you’re working at a bench, out in the plant, or in the field, you need accurate tools that you can count on. Finding the right tools for the specific challenges you face every day is important. With the Fluke Process Calibration range, you can be sure that the instruments you need are accurate, best-in-class and easy to use.

Comtest Distribution 10 Enterprise Close Linbro Park 2090 Tel: 011 608 8520 info@comtest.co.za www.comtest.co.za For a FREE Demo & more INFO email: flukeDEMO@comtest.co.za

Fluke. Accurate tools you can count on.

VSquared Marketing V2/12048/March 2014

starter for the highest kW motor that will be connected to it and to use the same starter for a variety of smaller motors. Gating box applications are an example. The problem is that the overload protection settings for the respective motors also need adjustment if the smaller motors are to benefit from protection. The difficulty is compounded when faced with flameproof enclosures due to the time required to open the compartment door. NewElec’s MA motor protection relay range combined with the programmable RDU 216 is the solution. The latter device is able to store up to eight popular settings for different kW motors. The varied settings are then able to be downloaded to the MA protection relay at a touch of a couple of buttons. These are accessed through the flameproof door that is frequently fitted with a ‘window’ in order to Enquiry no: 59 see the RDU 216 MM.

Fluke Process Calibration Range


24

M

June / July 2014

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

KZN Industrial & Business News

Unique battery module management system

ost companies install power management solutions based on UPS (uninterruptible power supply) technology to ensure they can function at full capacity irrespective of the power supply. UPS systems rely on batteries to control the supply of power to electronic equipment, preventing power disruptions and damage to sensitive electronic components. “Obtaining the optimal return on your power management investment is all the more important in an era of diminishing budgets,” says Neill Schreiber, Sales and Marketing Manager at Master Power Technologies. “Business can’t afford to rely on utility power and must therefore ensure that its power management solu-

tions deliver the best value over the longest lifespan possible.” Since every UPS runs off battery power, companies and their power management service providers must ensure batteries are functioning optimally to provide the power required in times of crisis. Poorly maintained batteries are likely to lose their power capacity quite quickly while reducing the useful life of other batteries that need to take up the slack, and therefore the lifespan of the UPS as a whole. To empower customers to maintain control over their UPS systems and extract full value from them, Master Power Technologies has developed a unique Battery Module Management System (BMMS). The BMMS col-

lects and stores the key electrical parameters (current, voltage and temperature) of each battery and calculates their functional status in comparison to past performance as well as the manufacturer’s specifications. “The BMMS is designed to continually monitor the status of UPS batteries to ensure they are functioning optimally, warning organisations as soon as one or more batteries are showing signs of a fault before they can damage other cells,” explains Schreiber Specific battery monitoring cards are connected to the batteries and each other by Ethernet cable, which provides data and power to each card, so no external power supply is needed. The Universal Controller provides

power to all the connected cards and is fed from dual supplies. “This monitoring function is run continually on each battery,” adds Schreiber. “The battery data is stored by the Universal Controller and updated in a central database. This data logging enables the user to view battery health/ performance trends over any given period. These trends can be monitored on site or remotely via Master Power Technologies’ Life. NET offsite monitoring system.” Enquiry no: 61

New circuit

Frequency converters for

breaker sockets

asynchronous AC motors

C

rabtree has released details of its new Circuit Breaker Sockets designed to protect critical current equipment. The product range ensures that users do not exceed the rated capacity of the circuit breaker, providing safety in the application. A normal switched socket, when overloaded, causes the circuit breaker at the main distribution board to trip, resulting in all sockets connected to that specific circuit breaker to be disconnected from power. Crabtree’s newly designed single pole circuit breaker, switches the live wire similar to a normal switched socket. However, by having a circuit breaker next to the socket, rated lower than the distribution board circuit breaker, the overload situation to that specific socket is isolated. Other sockets on the same circuit are not affected allowing the remaining circuits to continue protecting related equipment and appliances. Available in Crabtree’s Classic range, the

T new circuit breaker sockets are offered in three variants: 4x4 flush mounted single pole circuit breaker with a single standard 164-1, 16 A socket; 4x4 flush mounted single pole circuit breaker with one standard 164-1 and the new 164-2 Slimline 16 A socket; and a 2x4 surface mounted industrial single pole circuit breaker socket with a single standard 164-1 16 A socket. All models have a polycarbonate cover plate and are currently available in 6, 10 and 16 A single pole circuit breakers. The new circuit breaker sockets are ideal for use in laboratories, university dormitories, hospitals and in any situation where critical loads need to be regulated. Enquiry no: 62

ectra Automation, a Hytec Group Company, recently introduced the full range of Bosch Rexroth frequency converters for asynchronous AC motors in South Africa, delivering a simple, accurate and energy-saving threephase drive speed control solution. The addition completes the provision of Bosch Rexroth componentry for machine automation control panels. The frequency converters, which comprise three separate converter product ranges – the EFC 3600, the Fe and the Fv – have a wide operation spectrum, supporting motors between the 400 W and 160 kW power range, and are easily connected to new or existing automation topologies via Modbus or PROFIBUS fieldbus interfaces. Process control is improved through integrated PID controllers in addition to an eight-step sequence control system. Each converter has a different functionality and optimal power range. The EFC 3600 offers an affordable solution for lower power control applications between 400 W and 4 kW. The freely scalable V/f characteristic allows loaddependant adjustment of the voltage/frequency curve, ensuring a longer motor service life. The EFC 3600 delivers economic benefits for general automation, material handling, pumps, fans and compressors. Typical applications include building-material machines and technology; environmental and process engineer-

ing; food and beverage manufacturing; general automation; machine tools; packaging machines; among others. The Bosch Rexroth Fe frequency convertor covers the power range from 750 W to 160 kW, and is designed to be used as an open loop application in harsh industrial environments. The Fe comes in two varieties: G-type is designed for applications requiring high overload capability (e.g. conveyor belts, agitators and extruders), while P-type is designed for applications that require high durability (e.g. pumps, fans and crushers/shredders). Both series types have V/f control. Typical applications include ventilation and A/C technology; pumps and fans; transport, storage and conveyor technology; machine tools; paper, printing and converting machines; to name a few. The Bosch Rexroth Fv frequency converter was developed as a field-oriented drive for higher performances, covering the power range 400 W to 90 kW. The Fv has three control modes: V/f control, Sensorless Vector Control (SVC) and Vector Control with Encoder (FOC), giving the device a universal applicability. Typical applications include material transportation; hydraulics applications; rubber and plastics processing machines; paper, printing and converting machines; textile machines; Enquiry no: 63 amongst others.

Cables, Wires & Accessories HELUKABEL® is a leading international manufacturer and supplier of Cables, Wires and Cable Accessories.

Helukabel SA offer a massive range of cables and wires to suit your purpose The range consists of - Instrumentation, Control, Data & Computer cables, Drag Chain, Servo, Motor and Feedback Cables Heat Resistant, Rubber, Trailing, Robotic, Water / Chemical Resistant, Welding, Thermocouple / Compensating Coaxial, Panel, Telephone, Power, plus Much Much More. A broad range of Cable Accessories, form part of the extensive range offered by Helukabel This includes Protective Tubing, Sleeving, Compression Glands, Reducers, Enlargers, Braids, Tube Holders, Drag Chains, Connectors and much more.

If your exact requirements are not available out of the massive standard range, Contact us and we will design and manufacture your cable, wire, Spiral cable or harness to your requirements.

kznsales@helukabel.co.za www.helukabel.co.za Your Local Representitive Paul Bester 060 449 9609 Irwin Moodley 060 456 8145 or Head office on 011 462 8752


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

COMPANY PROFILE: MCE ELECTRICAL SUPPLIERS

25

I nd u s tr i a l E l e c tr i c a l P ro d u c t s

D o m e s t i c E lec tric a l a n d L E D P rod uc ts

MCE Branch Location

S o m e of MC E ’s Q ua lity B ra n d s


26

June / July 2014

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

KZN Industrial & Business News

The latest “electrical connection” F inally, one of South Africa's biggest electrical distribution networks, Voltex, of the Bidvest Group Limited, has included in its vast repertoire the acquisition of a major MV manufacturing company, MV/LV Solutions. As of April this year, Voltex, which offers an extensive range of electrical products for national distribution, decided to acquire MV/LV Solutions so that its customers may now have an even wider source for electrical products. “It's a proud moment for Voltex,” says Stanley Green (pictured), MD at Voltex; “and now, because MV/LV Solutions is part of the Voltex

brand, our service offering is greatly expanded.” According to Green, customers may expect to experience an enhanced offering through Voltex MV/LV Solutions and its ability to manufacture products to the specific customers’ requirements. One of the main areas of expertise, besides providing all products with an SABS stamp of approval, is its creative design team whose offering to the industry means customers can finally receive tailor-made products, directly. “Construction companies, the mining industry, utilities, as well as industrial plants will find particular benefit from the innovative and type tested product solu-

Realtime monitoring of circuit breaker performance

S

COPE, represented in South Africa by TIA ONLINE, is proud to announce the launch of their benchmark RTMon realtime circuit breaker monitor, which delivers a powerful online condition monitoring system for the continuous monitoring of circuit breakers in live EHV/UHV substations. RTMon is configured using CTs and sensors. Performance parameters are stored in the on-board memory of the field unit and are transmitted to a data acquisition system in a control room through RS485 or, RF or, fibre optics. Further data can be sent to a remote server. The field unit can be set to trigger on Change of Coil Current or, Auxilliary Contact change over. It can also generate the Alarm after comparison of the captured data with the set limits.

RTMon CB monitors the following parameters of a circuit breaker: • Coil current of Close, Trip 1 and Trip 2 coils using hall-effect CTs • Line and fault current using clamp type CTs at main CT secondary • Auxillliary contact time measurement • Travel measurement of the CB contacts (depending on availability of travel transducer) • Station DC voltage, continuous as well as during breaker operation • SF6 gas density • Air (Pneumatic) pressure

New range of Ex-proof test and measurement devices

T

ietzsch’s has a range of four new Ex-proof test and measurement devices: The MegaSafe EP 4 / EP 4Ex compact earth resistance tester is a manageable resistance measuring device for fast testing according to VDE 0413 of protective and grounding lines, equipotential bonding lines and lines at lightning arrester. The additional features include safe and universal between 10Ω m and 2 MΩ; high measurement current 0,2 A for Lo-Ω-range up to 10Ω; fast compensation of measuring line per keypress and automatic pole change and storage of measurement results. The ΩMegaSafe ISO 1Ex compact megohmmeter for potentially explosive atmospheres, is

a compact high-impedance testing device for insulating resistances and bleeder resistors. Additional features include the fact that it is safe and universal between 1 kΩ and 2 TΩ, has a test voltage of 32, 100, 500 V, indicates external voltage and integrated voltage up to 500 V and offers a push-button option for rapid discharge of capacitances. The VarioSafe EXM 25 Multimeter, for mining and chemical industries, is an intrinsically safe multimeter for potentially explosive atmospheres. Additional features include:

SKF South Africa - Celebrating 100 Years of Innovative Solutions

Linear Motion Solutions Linear motion products from SKF combine the knowledge and efforts of linear drive systems (ball and roller screws) and linear guides and tables. Linear drive systems typically use screws to transfer rotary into linear movements. This requirement is well achieved by our high efficiency driving products: miniature and large rolled ball screws, ground ball screws as well as different variations of roller screws. The second part of Linear Motion are linear guides and tables. To provide the best fit for your guiding needs, SKF’s comprehensive range includes linear ball bearings, profile rail guides, precision rail guides and linear tables and slides. SKF South Africa is celebrating 100 years of innovative solutions during 2014. Drawing on five areas of competence and application-specific expertise (bearings and units, seals, lubrication systems, mechatronics and a wide range of services), SKF brings innovative solutions to OEMs and production facilities in every major industry worldwide.

The Power of Knowledge Engineering SKF South Africa (Pty) Limited Tel: +27 11 821 3500, Fax: +27 11 821 3501, Email: sales.za@skf.com, Web: www.skf.co.za

tions MV/LV Solutions has to offer,” explains Green. In addition to its custom designs, Voltex MV/LV Solutions also provides manufacturing solution products such as panels and switchboards, distribution boards, mini-subs as well specialised assemblies. Green urges customers seeking a peaceof-mind solution need look no further than Voltex MV/LV Solutions because “it also offers its products with complete International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)”, as well as relevant SABS certifications. “With MV/LV solutions now part of the Voltex family, we are very confident that our customers will now receive an even greater service Enquiry no: 64 offering,” says Green.

New all-in-one document process calibrator

C

omtest Distribution, accredited southern African partner to Fluke – global leader in handheld electronic test and measurement equipment has announced the launch of the new 750 Series Documenting Process Calibrators. This top-of-the-line documenting process calibrator is specifically designed for process professionals in the gas and oil refining; chemical production; pulp and paper; food and beverage; • Hydraulic pressure water-wastewater industries. • Spring charging motor current and charging The 750 Series combines all of the process time during breaker operation calibration tools into one very powerful calibra• Compressor / hydraulic pump current tor that simply does everything. • Auxilliary AC voltage Process professionals have long trusted • Ambient temperature Fluke’s Documenting Process Calibrators to A special data acquisition system increase their troubleshooting and mainte(DAS) is provided along with the nance capabilities and can be confident that RTMon CB system which is installed this will continue with the improved model. into the control room PC. This sysThe 750 series is a multi-function calibrator tem is continuously in communication – sourcing, simulating and measuring preswith all the field units installed in the sure, temperature and electrical signals. substation. The data from all the field There is simply no downtime while operaunits is collected in this DAS. The DAS tors learn a new tool – it can be picked up and has a MODBUS communication port, used immediately (without training) thus no through which it communicates with the remote loss in productivity. central server and can be accessed from differThe improved screen makes for easier ent substations. After every breaker operation, use in the field or dark environments. The the measurement data is stored in the RTMon Field Unit and is transmitted to the DAS. improved RTD source accuracy handles even more workload. Server based software, which can access the The 754 pushes the envelope of document data from DAS of different substations, is also process calibrators by providing the ability to capable of detailed analysis of graphs and variEnquiry no: 65 maintain and calibrate selected HART transous other functions. mitters - a key process industry instrument.

• Universal for resistance, current, frequency, temperature and voltage up to 2000 V • For intrinsically safe and not intrinsically safe circuits up to 2000 V according to ATEX directive 94/9 EG • Highest degree of safety provided by moulded protective resistors in DATA-HOLD test prods CAT IV, 1000 V • Intrinsically safe source of energy NiMH accu or Li-battery • Robust casing made of antistatic plastic The VarioSafe EXM 24 is an intrinsically safe voltage and resistance measuring device for potentially explosive atmospheres. The simpler design provides fewer functions than the EXM 25 but has a similar mechanical construction and safety features. The chief variance from EXM25 is the measurement for intrinsically safe and not intrinsically safe circuits up to 1000 V according to ATEX directive 94/9 EG. Enquiry no: 66

Enquiry no: 67

Frequency-tocurrent converter

T

he DW2503 frequency-to-current converter from ifm is designed to convert pulse sequences into a standard signal. High input frequencies of up to 60 000 pulses / minute can be achieved. The new upgraded digital frequency to current converter can accept high-frequency incoming pulses up to a maximum 10 kHz, from as low as 1 pulse per minute. The user can scale the conversion of these pulses into the desired 0/4 to 20 mA or 0 to 10 V signal. If required, the DW 2503 will also invert the signal. The converter also features a switched output, in the form of a relay and a solid-state transistor, which allows users to set an alarm signal. The output can be set to stay on for a chosen time. The frequency converter has been ungraded to cover an extended operating temperature range down to –40°C and the newly developed luminous OLED display is clearer and brighter, with a menu-guided parameter setting designed for maximum user-friendliness. The DW2503 will operate on a wide range of voltages, AC or DC, and provides DC supply to input sensors. The DW2503 has one transistor output and one relay output that switch on or off in case the set limit frequency is exceeded or not reached. A typical application is the synchronisation of interacting conveyor belts. The rotational speed of the master belt is detected with a frequency-to-current converter. The speed of the second conveyor belt is readjusted by means of an analogue preset value from the Enquiry no: 68 frequency converter.

I/p converters and position feedback SV Mitech’s I/P range of converters is a P simple, low cost solution which permits high performance electronic control systems

to be linked to robust, fast acting, pneumatically-actuated control valves. Compatible with 4 – 20 mA control systems, the range has an 0,2 to 1 bar output signal and a 1,4 to 10 Bar(G) air supply pressure. With a modular design and 220 Ω input impedance, the converters operate with a 0,5% linearity and 0,2% hysteresis and a 4-20 in and 4-20 out operation. Parts are interchangeable and an ATEX model is available.

Enquiry no: 69


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS

27

POLASA fills dire need

S

ince the launch of the Powerline Association of South Africa (POLASA) in 2013, it has grown exponentially with more than 30 members of the industry having joined. “This clearly indicates the dire need for this organisation and for its members to have representation in the complex commercial and political environment in which they operate,” says POLASA chairman Gary Whalley. He adds that ESKOM too has welcomed the POLASA initiative. “They are grateful to be

Smart cameras detect expiration codes

able to talk to industry without being exposed to selective sharing of information or allowing individual interests to dominate discussions,” says Whalley. According to the Southern African Institute of Steel Construction’s (SAISC) Kobus de Beer, one of the main architects of the formation of POLASA, one of POLASA’s central concerns was the use by ESKOM of World Bank funding for the new Medupi power lines. “The concern is that in terms of World Bank rules ESKOM is not allowed to specify local content and that the “designation” ruling by Minister Rob Davies on power pylons would therefore not apply.” “After an appeal to the Minister the exception was confirmed and the South African industry is forced to compete head on with the internationals,” says de Beer. He adds, however, that it has been officially confirmed that the 15% import duties on

these products from overseas will still apply. “POLASA is making every effort to encourage and assist its members to compete head on for the World Bank funded power line jobs now being issued,” says de Beer. A number of other issues are also being explored such as possibly offering finance on power line projects, participation in the 18 CIPP preparation teams to provide input on South African capabilities, the giving of technical and other comments for ESKOM Standards and becoming more actively involved with distribution in South Africa. In addition, efforts continue to get the DTI to formally “designate” all power line hardware, which ESKOM says is already in the process of being implemented. De Beer says that more work needs to be done to inform the DTI and other relevant bodies on the power line industry and its characteristics.

“We have developed a detailed “Industry Paper”, which sets out the history of the industry and analyses its current status and needs. This will be submitted to the various parties and properly work-shopped in time.” ”POLASA will also continue to promote the development, growth and flexibility of its members through, inter alia, training and education initiatives, the development of export markets, adding value to engineering issues applicable to the industry in close co-operation with the SAISC, adding value to ESKOM activities by creating a platform to facilitate bilateral discussions between ESKOM and industry on issues not dealt with elsewhere, the publishing of various design and engineering handbooks and the organising of seminars, talks and conferences,” de Beer concluded. POLASA is a sub-association of SAISC and for more information please go to www.saisc. Enquiry no: 70 co.za.

We are one of the largest suppliers of ELECTRICAL InduSTRIAL pRoduCTS.

L

euze LSIS 400i smart cameras have provided the optimum solution at Arca Contal (Coca Cola) in Mexico. Twentytwo sets of smart cameras were installed at one of the bottling plants, with the express intention of detecting the expiration codes that are printed with laser and ink on all the products. “Bottles move through the printing machine at a rate of 600 to 900 pieces per minute. The Leuze high performance smart camera is able to reliably monitor this high throughput of bottles and when a unit is detected without an expiration code, the machine is automatically stopped,” says Gerry Bryant, managing director of Countapulse Controls, local distributor of Leuze sensors. The Leuze LSIS 400i smart cameras, for industrial image processing, can be integrated quickly and affordably into production lines. They are used in quality assurance, object detection and position determination for both identification and for production process monitoring purposes. With their sophisticated range of features, the LSIS 400i cameras can reliably handle complex tasks. These high performance LSIS 400i cameras provide complete reliability when checking for the presence, completeness, type, position and orientation of product codes. The smart device offers omnidirectional reading of the most important 1D and 2D codes, with reference code comparison. The IP 65/67 rated camera operates via WebConfig with any standard browser and provides integrated, homogeneous illumination over the whole viewing field. Adjustment of the illumination and focus position is enabled through software and online commands. Ease of mounting is possible with dovetail or threaded holes and the camera readily integrates with all interfaces (Ethernet, RS 232, 8x digital I/O), so no interfacing units are required. “Reading and verifying moving codes can sometimes be problematic, particularly if they are fast moving, inverted, reflective or even, as happens with Data Matrix codes, presented as a form of hole pattern, instead of as a square shape,” Bryant says. “Leuze has resolved these issues with the LSIS 422i which reads dot-peened, laser-etched and printed codes. The Leuze smart cameras feature motor driven focus adjustment, uniform illumination of freeform surfaces and connection technology suitable for industry,” Bryant says.

Enquiry no: 71

Design and Manufacturing of

LV and MV Switchboards and Motor Control panels

LSis Resin Transformers

Environmentally safe, maintenance free and high overload capacity

Activar Standard Systems Activar/Hz – Detuned 7% (189Hz): Full Compensation 1 Second (Typical 1 to 4 Max)

your electrical connection Contact us today on www.voltex.co.za or info@voltex.co.za facebook.com/VoltexSA |

twitter.com/voltexsa


June / July 2014

28

KZN Industrial & Business News

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

New partner for cloud solutions business unit D imension Data has selected SMEasy as the first partner to offer value-added services to its small and medium business Cloud customers. SMEasy is an online accounting and business management system that is making a tangible difference to small businesses in South Africa. It is written in simple English, and simply requires users to input the details of what they bought (or sold), how much it cost and how it was paid for. The system does all the work to produce financial records.

All of which means the user no longer requires a degree in accounting to manage the business finances like a pro, and it makes it easy for them to provide the information needed by their accountant to compile their financial statements required to access finance. “The SME sector is the engine room of South Africa’s economy. As the fastest growing sector in the country there is an increasing need to provide suitable products and services that are tailored for this market. By partnering with SMEasy, it is one way we can provide alternatives for Enterprise Development spend. As a result it enables larger businesses to empower qualifying small enterprises in their supply

chain with value add product offerings that are specifically developed for the SME market.” Comments Stephen Green, Executive for Next Generation Data Centres MEA, Dimension Data. SMEasy is available for as little as R150 a month, making it a truly affordable option for smaller businesses. Because it is an online service, it is more convenient and secure than traditional, non-cloud based services – it is available to the business owner anytime, anywhere and all business data can be backed up at a click of the mouse. The system also caters for customer communication management, allowing the business to send customers scheduled SMSes to

remind them of appointments and so on. According to Green, Dimension Data Cloud users can look forward to more such partnerships. “Dimension Data are one of the leading global providers of Software as a Service, and many of the world’s top software providers use our services,’’ he says. “It is our aim to partner with these providers so we can offer services in the Cloud. In this way, we drive true value in the South African market to allow small businesses access to Cloud-based services.” “Dimension Data and SMEasy are offering small businesses – no matter their size or budget – something extraordinary. The exact tools they need to thrive. But at a fraction of the cost and they provide comprehensive free support” commented Darlene Menzies (pictured), Enquiry no: 72 CEO of SMEasy.

Agribusiness and value chains in Africa

D

l

r. John Purchase, CEO of the Agricultural Business Chamber (Agbiz), outlined the role of agribusiness in food security and in ensuring globally competitive value chains in the broader agro-food sector. He pointed out that according to the FAO food security means “a situation that exists when all people, at all times, have physical and economic access to sufficient, safe and nutritious food to meet their dietary needs and food preferences for an active and healthy life”. Speaking in Johannesburg at the 54th annual congress of the Fertilizer Association of Southern Africa (FERTASA), he said in this regard South Africa generally has a good level of food security and ranks number one in Africa. South Africa has a relatively well developed agribusiness sector. “Agribusiness can play a critical role in

Lifting in Explosive Environments

jumpstarting economic transformation in Africa through the development of agro-based industries that provide much needed jobs and incomes. Successful agribusiness investment stimulates agricultural growth,” said Dr. Purchase. In a continent relatively rich in natural resources, there is growing concern at Africa’s growing net imports of agricultural products. South Africa is still a net exporter of agricultural products, but Purchase points out there is clearly a trend that this agricultural trade surplus is slowly declining. The challenge is to stimulate agricultural production, specifically also by smallholder farmers. Prof. Johan van Rooyen, director of the Standard Bank Centre for Agribusiness Development and Leadership at Stellenbosch

University, said agriculture in Africa is not stagnating. Production increased from 300 million tons in 1984 to almost 750 million tons in 2006. With a green revolution, Africa could increase the value of its agricultural output from US$280 billion in 2011 to more than US$500 billion by 2020 and US$880 billion by 2030. This would increase demand for a whole range of upstream products and services. Agribusiness in Africa, he said, is projected to be a US$1 trillion industry in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030. African agriculture attracted more than US$100 million in private equity investment in the first half of 2012 compared with US$50 million for the whole of 2011. Standard Chartered invested US$ 74 million early in 2013 to gain a stake in the grain and fertilizer trade in sub-Saharan Africa and another US$20 million in Zimbabwe’s horticultural sector. Women in Africa produce most of the food. Yet they only receive 5% of agricultural extension training and less than 10% of rural credit. They represent less than a quarter of agricultural researchers. “This reality needs to be addressed as a priority if smallholder farm production is to be increased and commercialised,” said Van Rooyen. Enquiry no: 73

Secure employees are happy employees

ne of the major attractions of small busiO nesses is that they rely on small teams of dedicated people for their ‘family feel’ and suc-

cess. Looked at from an outside perspective, however, it is these very advantages that can

add substantially to the risk of running a small business. Ravi Govender (pictured), Head of Small Enterprises at Standard Bank, points out that in a small business severe injury or death of a key person, or even an employee’s family member/s, can severely disrupt the operations of a small business. On the other hand, planning for such events can help employees avoid financial stress. The benefit for employers lies in increased employee loyalty, and reduces the time off required. “It is in this arena that embedded insurance policies, which cater for various contingencies, can be used to reduce risks and increase benefits for employees. They can also assist in differentiating your business from similar enterprises, and serve to attract those considering employment with you,” says Govender. “Embedded insurance products for employees are beneficial in that they offer flexibility. Schemes can be compulsory or voluntary, and funded in different ways. An employer can choose to fund the entire cost of the insurance chosen. Alternatively, the company can partly fund the benefit, and use employee contributions to fund the outstanding premiums. Otherwise, a scheme that is totally funded by employees, but offers increased benefits because of the number of members involved, can be set up.” The choice of cover available is also wide open. Cover can vary from personal life insurance, permanent disability cover and funeral cover, to household insurance and even retrenchment cover. Where a small business has agreed to provide small loans to assist employees with unexpected personal expenses, the repayment of the loan itself can be insured. In this case, if an employee cannot repay the loan due to circumstances covered in the policy, the outstanding balance can be paid on behalf of the employee. Enquiry no: 74


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Moving easily in tight spaces

I

n his typical innovative way, Build It Ladysmith owner John Fourie has bucked the national trend of using standard forklifts for non-standard work. In this case he has purchased from Goscor Lift Truck Company a Hubtex DQ series side-loader, which in ‘lengthwise drive’ can quickly transport long material through narrow doors and aisles, in ‘crosswise drive’ can be used as a conventional front loader and in ‘circle drive’ enables exceptionally fast turning of the truck. “The overall versatility of the Hubtex DQ and its ability to handle long and difficult loads - attributes which a conventional forklift cannot offer – precludes the need for other forklifts and enables us to save us up to 50% floor space, all of which is very significant in terms of the bottom line,” says Fourie. On his recent visit to South Africa Thomas Schmitt, Hubtex Germany’s key-account manager, said that where long or difficult loads are concerned, many South African operations are still employing inappropriate technology. “I have noticed that many companies in the construction industry are using traditional, front-loading forklifts in their long-load applications. The result is inefficient utilisation of warehouse and yard space and a significant reduction in productivity all-round,” says Schmitt.

Build It Ladysmith owner John Fourie (l) takes delivery of the revolutionary Hubtex DQ 45 from GLTC’s Dale Rosewall This is of course not the case at Build It Ladysmith. “On seeing the Hubtex I realised immediately that conventional forklifts were not really fit for our purpose and that the Hubtex most certainly was. I have not been disappointed in its performance and look forward to seeing even more improved productivity down the line,” Fourie says.

Fourie bought the Hubtex DQ 45, which is an extremely robust machine developed for indoor and outdoor use. With its hydrostatic all-wheel drive and independently activatable differential lock it is suited to all surfaces including poor ground or floor conditions. Also, the multidirectional steering enables optimal handling of long and bulky loads and the efficient use of storage space. The superior High Performance Steering (HPS) steering system of the DQ 45 ensures the shortest changeover time from lengthwise to crosswise drive. In fact research has shown that compared to conventional steering systems the Hubtex HPS enables a 60% faster changeover and, in addition, has up to a 30% smaller turning radius by means of its load wheels. Goscor Lift Truck KZN’s Dale Rosewall says that the German Manufactured Hubtex Side loaders have been a great success since being introduced by Goscor into Southern Africa, not only the quality of the Machines but the aftersales service that Goscor offers to the end user. “There is an increasing number of people like John Fourie who are seeing the light in terms of what Hubtex loaders can do for the efficiency of businesses that deal in long and difficult loads,” he concluded.

29

new educational guide A “Optimizing your Spray System” from Spraying Systems

Co. explains how to optimise performance and lower costs in cleaning, coating, cooling and lubricating operations using spray technology. The comprehensive handbook, “Optimizing Your Spray System”, covers the use of spray technology from system specification, installation, operation and maintenance through optimisation. The costs associated with using spray nozzles and systems that are not optimized can be staggering. The handbook explains how under-performing spray equipment can often go undetected and cost manufacturers tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Readers will learn how quality problems and significant waste of costly chemicals, water and energy can result from spray equipment problems.

.

Enquiry no: 75

Versatility and availability

V

ersatility and availability are two reasons for the continuing success of Pilot Crushtec International’s range of modular semimobile crushing and screening products. These attributes were demonstrated recently when a major mining company, Forbes Coal, needed additional equipment for its coal processing plant. National sales manager Nicolan Govender explains that from order to commissioning the project was literally

I

a seamless exercise. ex-stock, providing the customer with “The mine urgently needed a suite a rapid turnaround. In this instance it of equipment to process <3mm mate- took no more than two weeks from date rial that would interface with its exist- of order to commissioning the machining machinery. One of the features of ery on site in Dundee, KwaZulu-Natal. our modular range is that crushers, The modular equipment supplied screens and conveyors have been comprised a GFH560 grizzly feed hopdesigned to integrate with other equip- per, a Pilot Modular BRO605 vertical ment to provide the customer with a shaft impact crusher, a Pilot Modular simple and straightforward solution for DD3615 heavy duty screen, a Pilot his needs,” he says. Modular 16m MC600 conveyor and An added benefit is that the popu- three Pilot Modular 10m MC600 conlarity of the range ensures that a high veyors. APE KZN Ind x 205* 5/12/14 11:01 AM Page 1 Enquiry no: 76 proportion ofPumps equipment is150 available

Harbour based for freight and logistics management

ntermodal Connections - specialists in freight management and logistics solutions - has recently been established, to manage complete supply chain requirements, to and from any destination in the world. Intermodal Connections, conveniently based at the Durban Harbour, efficiently handles all freight requirements, including container packing and unpacking, storage and distribution, as well as customs services. “A professionally managed, reliable and transparent supply chain is key to the efficiency of domestic and international trade,” says Jo-Ann Mellon, managing director, Intermodal Connections. “The company’s streamlined freight solutions, which encompass all aspects of logistics and shipments, ensure cargo reaches its destination safely, in the most efficient and cost effective manner.” The company’s new facility – a 10 000 m² 23 m high warehouse and 2 000 m² open yard area - is designed to accommodate all types of cargo, specifically aimed at unitised cargoes. A 45 T container handler is on site to enhance operational efficiency and ensure Enquiry no: 77 safe handling of all cargo.

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY CMY

K

New handbook on maximizing in spray operations The handbook provides detailed information on how to detect costly spray system problems that are not usually found during a visual inspection and outlines steps for troubleshooting and resolution. Also included are guidelines and checklists for monitoring and maintenance procedures to help ensure trouble-free, efficient operation. The value of assessing spray equipment that appears to be operating properly is also addressed. The handbook explains why even small changes in operating conditions may improve performance. Enquiry no: 78

. .


30

June / July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Purified nitrogen on tap N itrogen, often rated fourth after gas, electricity and water, is used in diverse applications across a wide spectrum of industries. The food & beverage industry relies on a dependable nitrogen supply for various processing and packaging purposes. It serves as an inert gas replacement for air to prevent oxidation and preserve the freshness in packaged (potato chips, nuts, salads, etc.) and bulk foods. Nitrogen gas is also used in laser cutting and chemical manufacture, during the production of electronic parts (transistors, diodes and integrated circuits) to prevent oxygen and moisture build-up, and as a safety measure on top of liquid explosives such as paint and solvents. Use is even extended to reducing fire hazards in fuel storage systems and aircraft tanks. According to Charl Ackerman, Atlas Copco

Compressor Technique Business Line Manager, Industrial Air Division, the production of nitrogen gas requires a very simple process. “A compressor system combined with a PSA (Pressure Swing Adsorption) NG nitrogen generator is all that is required to literally produce compressed nitrogen on tap, whenever it is needed, to a customer’s exact desired purity level requirements.” Ackerman adds that the Atlas Copco NG unit can also be retrofitted to non-Atlas Copco compressor systems. The many advantages offered by this system makes it a cost effective alternative to other nitrogen sources. “In addition to increased safety in the working environment as well as convenience - you can never run out of gas, the system delivers substantial across the board savings: The range is designed with highly efficient technology to optimise

KZN Industrial & Business News

production processes at the lowest possible operating costs and the unit is virtually service free.” Ackerman also points out that return on investment is often less than a year.” Disclosing the technology behind nitrogen generation, Ackerman says, “For applications that demand high purity gas production of 99.999%, we utilise pressure swing adsorption (PSA) technology. We also have an NGM range with membrane technology for applications which don’t require high purity gas levels, usually around 95% purity.” “In essence, the PSA nitrogen generator allows oxygen molecules, which are smaller than nitrogen molecules, to be trapped in a medium while the nitrogen molecules pass through the medium. “This takes place in a two-phase process in two columns into which air from the compressor flows. “In the first phase, the adsorption phase, the high-pressure air flows through the columns filled with a carbon molecular sieve (CMS). By pressurising the vessel, oxygen molecules are absorbed preferentially by the CMS while

PowerBlitz

nitrogen molecules pass on because they’re larger. The sieve continues to absorb oxygen until a saturation point is reached.” “During the second phase, the regeneration or desorption phase, the entering air stream is cut off allowing the oxygen to leave the vessel at low pressure. The two vessels work together to produce a near-continuous flow of nitrogen gas which then goes to a receiver from which it is piped to the application in the same way that compressed air is piped to various outlets.” Ackerman notes that the nitrogen piping is usually green while compressed air piping is blue, “so there can be no confusion especially if both are being piped through a factory.” Taking all the cost saving advantages into consideration, the installation of an Atlas Copco nitrogen generator is a sustainable solution that will reduce input and operational costs and increase the all-important bottom Enquiry no: 79 line.

Improved froth pump

Clearance on legacy parts Cummins, the world’s largest manufacturer of Diesel engines and supplier of Parts and Service is having a clearance sale.

N14 Parts

TOOLING

SPECIAL

NT855 PARTS

T

FILTRATION Assorted SALE ReCon Engines

Legacy Parts

SALE

One Brand Fits all

E

BL A L I A V KITS A

NOW

E&OE, T’s & C’s apply - while stocks last - stocks are limited

www.cummins.com/southafrica

he customers of Weir Minerals Africa are enjoying the benefit of vastly improved efficiencies from the Warman AHF froth pump. This is a result of the extensive test work initiated about 18 months ago. Coupled with a fundamental change in the design layout associated with implementing AHF pumps — such as feed tanks, orientation and footprint, these pump design improvements have resulted in enhanced, revitalised and corrected concentration froth handling. The heavy duty Warman AHF froth pump: whilst based on and interchangeable with, the well-known Warman AH and L pumps, has been modified to handle difficult froth slurry. Key to the unique pump design is a significantly larger-thannormal inlet diameter with a unique impeller inducer blade which is able to handle heavy froth and higher viscosity dense slurries with ease. This larger inlet, with correspondingly larger inlet volume allows the handling of significantly greater expanded air volume without air binding, with less surging, therefore making it possible to install a smaller pump. Weir Minerals Africa has conducted local test work based on findings drawn from research conducted in North America and Europe over the past seven years. Rui Gomes, product manager: slurry pumps at Weir Minerals Africa, says this research allowed his team to understand the variability that takes place at different plants and how the AHF pump can be adjusted to respond to these irregularities. “Being able to tap into the latest proven methods and apply them to local operations is one of the benefits of being part of a large multinational organisation,” adds Gomes. “The Warman AHF froth pump is small and efficient. The inducer impeller and oversized inlet are very effective in assuring that froth or viscous slurries enter the impeller, allowing the pump to transport it to the next destination. Lower power costs, reliable operation, greatly reduced surging and feed tank overflow make this pump extremely user friendly. “When it comes to concentration froth, there’s no ‘copy and paste’ solution, as was the theory in the past, because individual applications vary over a broad spectrum,” Gomes concludes. “We therefore continue to collaborate with customers to conduct on-going test work that guides the application of this pump technology to suit their unique processes.”

Enquiry no: 80


June /July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

KZN Industrial & Business News

EVO focuses on efficiency

Local packaging manufacturer wins WorldStar Awards

I

nnovation and differentiation are the key elements in staying ahead in the increasingly competitive packaging industry. Nampak, continues to offer innovative solutions for its customers, demonstrating their commitment to providing value and improving customer’s brands. This commitment to innovation was recognized by the World Packaging Organisation with several international WorldStar packaging awards. WorldStars are awarded to packages which have already won recognition in a national competition. The packages are compared by an expert panel of judges to similar packages from around the world and winners are based on consensus that a package is superior in its own right, and better in its class in execution or innovation by comparison. Nampak won awards for the Poltek live bird crate, Easy open easy pour Castle Lite can

and Cadbury re-sealable chocolate packaging. Nampak Megapak, Africa’s leading manufacturer of plastic trays, crates and drums won a WorldStar Award for their improved version of the live bird crate designed and manufactured for Poltek, the leading supplier and manufacturer of poultry equipment in South Africa. The re-designed crate is simpler, lighter, more space efficient and environmentally friendly, as well as being designed to take the best possible care of the birds during transportation. Using cutting edge computer modelling and performance analysis, Megapak and Nampak R&D developed a radically improved version of this 30 year old product, delivering huge financial, logistical, functional and environmenEnquiry no: 81 tal benefits.

Saving energy with pneumatics in water treatment

F

esto is working with water and wastewater treatment companies across the globe, using pneumatic automation technology to provide an energyefficient solution for new and old treatment plants. The equipment supplied is from the process valve to SCADA visualisation of the plant, as a complete solution. A key target for many water and wastewater treatment plants is that of reducing the electricity consumption. Saint Petersburg, the most northerly city in the world has resolved to implement a programme to increase the energy efficiency of the drinking water supply for its southern areas and has invested 2.6 billion roubles (around R760 million) over a period of three years. South African municipalities are similarly challenged to upgrade our water infrastructure, and to finding energy efficient solutions. Until now, electric drives were the first choice for Russia’s water treatment plants – for opening and closing the inlets and outlets of sand-bed filters or in pumping stations. In St. Petersburg, the use of only electric

drives would have meant an installed load of 75 kW. The plant could not have provided this without extending the electrical infrastructure. A pneumatic system with actuators DAPS, including two air compressors, required an installed load of only 10 kW. By simply replacing the electric drives with 120 pneumatic actuators, the plant was able to save at

least R950,000. As our power grid in South Africa is increasingly under pressure, it makes sense that a similar solution would be of benefit to local water treatment plants. Festo supplies ready-to-install valve assemblies consisting of butterfly, ball or knifegate valves with actuators and sensor boxes, as well as ready-to-install control cabinets with valve terminals, pressure and flow sensors and service units from Festo’s MS series. By sourcing all the pneumatic automation equipment from the same supplier, there are fewer problems during operation and maintenance of the plant.

E

lectric three‑wheel and four-wheel forklift trucks in the 1.2 to 2-tonne load category are among the most widely used trucks. They can be found in distribution centres and manufacturing plants, as well as in wholesale and retail. With a new generation, the Linde E12 to E20 EVO series, truck manufacturer Linde Material Handling (MH) has made its successful models even better by adding new features and adapting the models to changing requirements, such as increased outdoor use. Different driving dynamics programs also mean settings can be tailored between high performance and low energy consumption according to individual customer requirements. Technical highlights such as a compact axle with integrated power modules and twoengine front-wheel drive, combined axle and dual-pedal control, along with the ergonomics concept have made this electric forklift truck the benchmark in the truck industry for many years. The new electric forklift truck series stands

out with its black “shark fin” on a red truck chassis and the EVO lettering. Inside the truck, a new controller with improved tuning achieves up to 16% lower energy consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the previous series. In addition, the optimised characteristic curves mean that the trucks have more power on gradients and when moving loads. The high frequency on-board charger located in the counterweight that allows flexible recharging at any socket, the new series offers active ventilation as standard. This simplifies the battery charging process because the driver does not need to open the battery hood, cab door or the truck windows.

our focus

on you!

P

• Leading southern African

specialist sensing technology supplier

• 40 years’ experience in specialist sensing technology

• Application appropriate sensing, control and motion detection solutions

• Local applications knowledge coupled with state-of-the-art

counting, sensing and motion detection technology

• Products conform to the highest international quality standards

Enquiry no: 82

variable displacement pump connected to a PTO (power takeoff), Parker’s EHP solution rotates only when needed and at the required speed using a fixed displacement pump. On top of that, when comparing the fixed displacement pump technology with variable speed electric motors, to the usual load sensing (LS) variable displacement pump technology fitted on the ICE, there is significant saving of to 20 to 30 bars during movement and stand-by, and no more LS hydraulic lines. Specifying the correct EHP could not be simpler. In fact, just three application specifics are required: flow, pressure and voltage. The pump kits are offered in flow rates up to 300 l/min, pressure up to 300 bars, and up to 640 VDC rated voltage to adapt to every battery Enquiry no: 83 pack.

Enquiry no: 84

Keeping

• Support with a well-equipped

electro-mechanical/electronic

Unrivalled range of electrohydraulic pumps saves energy

arker Hannifin has introduced a full range of Electro-Hydraulic Pump (EHP) kits which will make it easier for OEMs in mobile markets to create more energy-efficient, greener machines. Designed for use with medium and high power hydraulic cylinders and power steering systems, the new kits provide intelligent control in applications such as materials handling and construction, buses, coaches, trucks, wheel loaders, excavators, street sweepers, reach stackers and mobile cranes. EHP kits comprise an electric motor coupled directly to a hydraulic pump controlled by a high performance hardened drive enabling the power used by a machine to be matched to the exact amount of energy required for a given task. Unlike conventional systems, which permanently rotate with a

31

workshop

• Representatives in Cape Town, Durban, East London, Port Elizabeth, Namibia and Zimbabwe

• 24/7 technical hotline

Products include:

• Counters and encoders

• Photoelectronic sensors

• Opto-electronic switching devices

• Flow and level sensors • Speed measuring and monitoring equipment

• Safety light curtains

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


June / July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

32

K

aytech was recently approached by a farmer who needed a cost-effective solution to line his leaking dam in Boston, KwaZulu Natal. Once lined, the dam would be used for leisure purposes such as fishing and swimming. Although several Kaytech lining options were available including the Sealmac dam-lining system, Kaytech’s Paul Lombard recommended using Kaytech’s EnviroFix, a proudly South African manufactured Geosynthetic Clay Liner. EnviroFix is produced by needling a uniform layer of sodium

bentonite between two durable, outer layers of geotextile. When sodium bentonite, a naturally occurring clay mineral with a structure comprising charged platelets, comes into contact with moisture, it swells considerably. Since it is under confinement in EnviroFix, a lining is formed with a low permeability equivalent to that of approximately one metre of compacted clay. Upon inspection of the site, Paul Lombard suggested that the steep slopes of the dam be made more gradual to facilitate the installation of EnviroFix. This was achieved using a Bobcat.

KZN Industrial & Business News

Answer to leaking dam

During manufacture of EnviroFix, a heat treating process called Thermal Lock is used to modify and more permanently lock the needled fibres into place. Unique properties resulting from this process include increased internal shear resistance and long term creep resistance. EnviroFix is therefore more durable over a wider range of installation conditions. Although the farmer had no previous experience with geosynthetic clay liners, by following Kaytech’s installation guidelines in conjunction with the use of a TLB and his own farm labour, he success-

fully installed over 2040m² of EnviroFix GCL X1000. The GCL was covered with a 300mm confining layer of compacted soil to optimise the very low

permeability of the liner, and to keep it hydrated should the waterlevel drop below operating level for any length of time. EnviroFix can completely or partially replace thick, multilift compacted clay layers in composite landfill liners and caps, while its exceptional hydraulic barrier makes it the ideal product for liquid containment projects. The easy installation of this outstanding Kaytech product, manufactured according to a stringent quality control programme, allowed the farmer to save both time and money and he is assured of the lonEnquiry no: 85 gevity of his dam.

Self-balancing electric vehicles

E

corider self-balancing electrically operated two wheel personal transportation vehicles are set to take the South African market by storm. “This new robust personal transporter system, which complies with green technology requirements, is not only geared for safe and efficient use in the leisure market, but these vehicles are also suitable for short distance travel in industries that include security, manufacturing, warehousing and agriculture, as well as hotels, sports facilities and residential estates,” says Clinton van den Berg, Ecorider. “These compact gyro controlled vehicles, which are easy to operate, automatically keep balance and limit travel speed, which means there is no risk to the driver’s safety. “Due to the integrated self-balancing function, all drivers have to do is

stand on the vehicle and simply shift their body forward to go in a frontward direction and lean backwards to reverse, turning the handle left or right to change direction.” “Advantages of this portable transporter system include fast and safe travel time, reduced fatigue, enhanced productivity and a boost to corporate image. For user convenience, Ecorider vehicles are collapsible and can fit easily into the boot of a car.” There are three models in the versatile Ecorider range, the Ninebot standard, Windrunner urban standard and Windrunner off-road standard – all of which have a maximum travel speed of 20 km/hr. These high strength vehicles have the latest battery technology, with a charging life of at least 1 000 times. Standard features include a built-in anti theft system, dual safety back-up technology, height adjustable

MACHINE MOVING & RIGGING CONTRACTORS C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

+27 31 705 1404 • Bruce +27 82 451 0917 • www.lovemore.co.za • email: bruce@lovemore.co.za

handle bars and a speed restrict mode for optimum safety. Enquiry no: 86

New versatile chamfer cutter

T

o address the issue of requiring multiple, dedicated cutters in the toolchanger of a machining centre to create different component chamfers, Sandvik Coromant can now offer CoroMill 495, a universal tool which ensures machine shops only require a single chamfer cutter to perform various chamfering operations. This not only creates extra space in the toolchanger but minimises tool inventory and costs. Most engineering components require at least one chamfer, and because the majority of modern machine shops run small batches in many different materials, the potential for excessive toolchanging and extended set-up times is vast. With CoroMill 495, the same tool can undertake a wide variety of chamfering operations, reducing downtime and maximizing machine utilization. The tool features indexable inserts with four cutting edges, and cutter bodies with a high number of inserts in relation to body size. As well as conventional topside chamfers, CoroMill 495

can be used to pass through a bore and chamfer the underside of components. This versatile cutter can also be used to perform weld preparations, deburring operations and even face milling if required. Available cutter diameters include 12-25 mm and 40-63 mm to create 15°, 30°, 45° and 60° chamfer angles using coupling types such as cylindrical shank, Coromant EH and Coromant Capto, while a 0.5-1” imperial version takes advantage of a Weldon coupling. Both GC1030 (-PM geometry) and GC1040 (-MM geometry) grades are available to ensure successful chamfering in a multitude of different materials, including steel, stainless steel, cast iron, aluminium and heat resistant super alloys.

Enquiry no: 87

Optimize logistics. Connect to Control. With its new contactor and motor control range, ABB has reduced the number of contactor coils from 45 to 4 and the number of product variants has been reduced by as much as 90%. New technology adds functionality in addition to simplified stockholding and reduced administration costs. www.abb.co.za/lowvoltage

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

New AF Contactors 2013(Landscape).indd 1

2013/10/17 10:49:35 AM


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

33

International exhibition services

Neren Dayanand, Branch Manager, Durban, Turners Shipping and Annette Pather, Forwarding and Groupages Manager are managing the expanding client offering into the exhibition and event logistics industry sometimes don’t understand the complexity of the exercise,” she says. “Last-minute shipments usually have to be air freighted to their destination which increases the costs drastically.” All of the display materials have to be exported to the international venue

and then imported for their return to South Africa. “If there are goods that are going to be sold at the event it adds a whole new set of challenges to the management of the logistics.” “The efficient movement of the shipment relies on the efficient preparation of the documentation and the management as it passes from one agency to the other.” This service offering from Turners Shipping dove-tails with the Conferences division of XL Turners Travel which is part of the Turner Group of companies. Turners Conferences is one of the leading conference and event management companies in South Africa regularly organizing conferences with international participants and exhibitors. The sister companies are able to provide a complete logistical and management solution for their clients and conference hosts. Enquiry no: 88

The role of integration in the quest for resilient supply chains

S

upply chain integration across all departments is the key to resilient supply chains which, in turn, lead to more resilient businesses. “Businesses don’t just become resilient by themselves,” says SAPICS President Cobus Rossouw, fresh from the recent annual SAPICS Supply Chain conference held at Sun City. The conference was attended by close to 1000 supply chain participants from Africa and the world’s major business centres. “Until each part of the business including the guys from research and development , sales and finance understand how they fit into the supply chain and the fact that their contribution matters to its overall resilience, companies simply won’t achieve the level of resilience required for them to be truly competitive in today’s fastchanging, demanding marketplace,” he adds. According to Rossouw, resilience is the capacity to recover quickly from

difficulties. “We’re not saying: the better you plan, the easier it’ll be to avoid trouble. We’re saying, difficulties are unpredictable and unavoidable, but the better you plan, the faster you’ll recover.” Another key discussion point raised during the conference is the perception that the supply chain profession is being tainted by the criticism against the role of procurement. “The casual interchange of the terms procurement, supply management and supply chain management is compromising the ability of our value chain integration profession to deliver maximum business value,” he said. “This dilemma extends into the private sector as well, where buyers continue to focus on price as the major decision-driver, often to the detriment of the integrated supply chain. This inevitably has a disastrous effect on supply chain relationships.” In his experience, Rossouw says recovering from difficulties requires

Matching brand strength with market leadership

E

ngen Petroleum, has once again won “Coolest Petroleum Brand” in the sought-after Sunday Times Generation Next awards. It is the company’s fourth straight win in the survey, adding to a growing list of accolades that have given it uncontested brand leadership to match its long-time market strength. In 2013 Engen took a hat trick in the Sunday Times Top Brands award (retail service station forecourts), having won top honours for the third con-

secutive year. Now in its ninth year, Generation Next tracks the consumer behaviour and preferences of South Africans aged 8 to 22 – an important segment of the market with an annual spending power of R104 billion per year (2013 figures from HDI Youth Marketeers). Lesley McDonough, Group Brand Manager at Engen, says the results continue to validate Engen’s market-

collaboration and innovation from all parties involved. “Collaboration seems so easy at the outset but, in the end, it requires parties to accept that ‘being right’ is less important than ‘being aligned’. “ Innovation that leads to greater resilience requires an open mind and the desire to be brave. “I have learnt that all supply chains and all relationships are exposed to difficulties. Plain-sailing is only a figment of your imagination or a lack of drive to seek out the next opportunity for improvement. This means that we need to be resilient, to recover from these difficulties quickly. Whether difficulties are forced upon us by circumstances outside our control or emanating from our drive to deliver more value, we have to be tough,” he says. “This will require collaboration and innovation,” Rossouw concludes. “It will require us to be aligned with all our partners and to seek out different ways to succeed.”

From left are the Johannesburg team - Clive Porter, Bronwynn Fine, Jeff Talbot and Niel Kinnear

Local company move to Gauteng

T

hermoWise, specialists in energy saving systems for the industrial, commercial, domestic and agriculture sectors, has recently opened a branch in Johannesburg. “At the core of the company’s carefully structured expansion programme, is a vision to be a powerful force in energy saving in Southern Africa,” says Bronwynn Fine, director, ThermoWise. “ThermoWise has launched a vigorous energy efficiency drive designed to help companies reduce energy consumption and optimise production efficiencies. “This new Johannesburg operation - which services Gauteng and neighbouring regions - supports an extensive range of energy efficient systems, with a specialist

GENERAL PURPOSE STRIP CURTAINS WELDING AND SAFETY SCREENS

Enquiry no: 89

ing focus and efforts. “We are excited and humbled to win this award again, especially as the youth is our future market. It is not easy to stay current in this market.” While Engen has led the market in annual volume throughput for an extended period, it has been its constant innovation and customer service focus in the last five years that have put it ahead of the rest of the pack in brand recognition and loyalty across all audiences. “We continue to invest in reinvigorating the brand, investing much effort into remaining an attractive stop-over for youth,” says Joe Mahlo (pictured), Engen’s head of sales and marketing. Enquiry no: 90

project and energy saving solutions service.” The ThermoWise range of energy saving systems encompasses air to water heat pumps, energy saving shower heads, calorifiers, induction cooking equipment, occupancy sensors and monitoring equipment. The Gauteng operation is strategically positioned in Bedfordview, to service all sectors of business in the region, including light and heavy industry, mining and agriculture, as well as commercial and domestic applications. ThermoWise supports its extensive range of quality branded products with a technical advisory, installation, maintenance and support service throughout Enquiry no: 91 Southern Africa.

HIGH IMPACT TRAFFIC DOORS

HIGH SPEED ROLL UP AND FOLD UP DOORS A network of agents throughout South Africa ensures excellent technical and installation support, and quick delivery times. Coralynne & Associates +27 (011) 849 3142

T

here is a growing need for specialist, efficient and reliable logistics management as everincreasing number of South African manufacturers and companies are participating in international trade exhibitions. Getting your exhibition materials and stock to the exhibition location and then back home is not as simple as it seems, says Annette Pather, Forwarding and Groupages manager at Turners Shipping. According to Annette, transport and logistics are usually the last thing on the mind of the people planning to participate in an international event: “They book their stand, design and manufacture their display materials, make all the other arrangements and then only consider shipping everything there. This can be a costly mistake.” Trade Shows and Exhibitions present logistics personnel with a fixed deadline which determines the strict timelines for the project. “Clients

011 452-8723 021 551-5076 KWAZULU-NATAL: 0 8 6 1 0 3 3 3 0 3 PORT ELIZABETH: 041 487-2525 www.apexstrip.co.za JOHANNESBURG: CAPE TOWN:


34

F

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

Low-noise conveyor system

uture-proof production, assembly, and packaging lines must be able to deal with even smaller batches, more frequent product changes, and a large number of product variants. Chain conveyor systems used in production, therefore, have to be easy to configure and assemble with fast response times and shortened time-to-market providing the major competitive edge for machine manufacturers and users. Additionally, low-noise operation is also crucial for this type of system. Bosch Rexroth’s new VarioFlow Plus chain conveyor system fulfils all of these requirements, supporting both manufacturers and users. VarioFlow Plus is ideal for achieving a fast time-to-market, as with this chain conveyor system, users can easily configure individual, space-saving solutions for versatile,

complex transportation tasks, even for particularly difficult environments. A number of standardised modules cover differing application requirements are also available with maximum interchangeability and modularity. To simplify selection and correct combination of the modules, Bosch Rexroth offers MTpro planning software with Layout Designer. Conveyors and even complex multi-conveyor and workstation systems can be designed, components selected, and the results output to CAD with this system. Even more valuable time can be saved during commissioning as the innovative drive solution provides a great degree of planning freedom and the motor mounting position can be chosen on-site. This reduces the selection of drive variants to a minimum. With its low-noise operation, the new chain

conveyor system greatly reduces noise and thus improves working conditions. Bosch Rexroth achieves this level of smooth operation through optimised sliding characteristics and the use of slide rails with lateral mounting. At the same time, this ensures low wear and fast, reliable assembly. The Bosch Rexroth VarioFlow Plus chain conveyor system consists of components that can be used universally for all system widths, including the new track width of 120 mm. This reduces the need for spare parts for users. The stable chain permits tensile forces of up to 1 250 newtons. The chain surface is nearly closed, allowing even the smallest of parts to be transported safely and reliably. The system offers individual conveyor layouts and comes in six sizes and two material options: a basic aluminium version and a stainless steel version for higher hygiene demands,

veco South Africa is launching its brand new taxi minibus in markets across South Africa. The new model has a new shape and new features such as DRL (Daytime Driving Lights), Controlled Steering and Blue & Me hands free kit. The aim of the new addition is to localise and adapt the vehicle to a South African perspective, it has therefore acquired the name, Daily Sisonke which means “we are all together” in isiZulu, together with a new logo. The New Daily Sisonke taxi accommodates the driver + 21 passengers with a maximum load of 350kg for luggage (South African Regulations), fitted with an integrated rollover kit, safety belts on all seats and ESP 9 brake technology to ensure passenger safety. The taxi’s cabin storage capacity has been modified by cohesive parcel tray installations on both sides of the inside of the cabin, and to add to driver and passenger comfort the vehicle is equipped with Radio and CD, an option

for the seats to be covered in durable vinyl or cloth is also available. The windows are tinted all round and the vehicle offers large sliding doors to make accessibility and exiting easier for its passengers. To improve the driving experience, the New Daily Sisonke has been fitted with a six speed override synchromesh manual transmission with the gear lever located on the dashboard, the vehicle produces a maximum torque output of 350Nm @1400-2600rpm and a maximum output of 146HP (107kW) @ 30003500rpm which increases the vehicles performance rating and ensures that power and speed is available on demand. The New Daily Sisonke is an illustration of the continuous effort by the company to provide a vehicle that is adaptable, attractive and able to compete in one of South Africa’s most significant and vibrant markets . Enquiry no: 93

for example in the food industry, where Bosch Rexroth uses components made of FDAcompliant materials. Alternatively, Bosch Rexroth offers a work piece pallet system suitable for transporting work piece pallets in the automotive and electronic industries. Tectra Automation, a member of the Hytec Group of Companies, is an authorised distributor for Bosch Rexroth.

Enquiry no: 92

4 x 2 trucks to enhance performance

New Taxi minibus on the market

I

June / July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

I

ncluded in the range of Capacity trucks from BLT SA, are 4 x 2 models, designed for enhanced performance, increased safety and minimal maintenance requirements. “These 4 x 2 Capacity trucks, which can be customised for every specific handling task they need to perform, are suitable for use in diverse industries, including warehousing and distribution, airport terminals and intermodal requirements, as well as ports and shipping,” says Charity Gumede, marketing director, BLT SA. “Key features of this robust range include reliable performance with the maximum number of lifts or moves per hour, fuel saver technology, low cost of ownership and compliance with quality and safety specifications. These machines are supported by a 10 year frame warranty.” “Other advantages include multiple engine options, reduced emissions for enhanced environmental protection and improved driver ergonomics to ensure comfortable operation in all environments, which contributes to reduced fatigue and improved productivity.” The 4 x 2 Capacity range, with a high strength all-steel cab and one-piece platform, is available in on-highway road models - ideal

for applications where ‘over the road’ use is required and off-highway models where no ‘over the road’ travel is necessary. For additional strength and durability, these trucks are fitted with a double reinforced front bumper and a 50° taper curbside deck and bumper. Front and rear tow hooks, which are standard in this range, are welded to the frame rails. These machines have a rigid suspension, power steering, automatic brake slack adjusters and a vertical exhaust with a heat shield. Standard safety features include warning devices, fully adjustable mirrors, tempered safety glass and a reliable braking system, where rear brakes lock on low air pressure. An efficient lighting system ensures safe operation at night. Capacity trucks have an optional DuraRide rear suspension, designed to minimise stress to the frame, cab and drive train. This system isolates the truck from road shake caused by rough terrain, yet provides a stable ride. BLT SA, the principal dealer for Capacity trucks in Africa, enhances the range of new and reconditioned machines, with a rental option. The company also offers a maintenance programme to ensure enhanced performance and extended service life of equipment. Enquiry no: 94

Additional variants of diaphragm valve

he Ingelfingen-based valve specialist T has added two additional nominal sizes to its product range of the GEMÜ 650 series, which is designed for use in sterile applications. The actuator design of this piston actuated 2/2-way diaphragm valve has proven popular in the foodstuff and pharmaceutical industries for many years. With the addition of the DN 80 and DN 100 nominal sizes, the product range has now been extended further.

This ensures product continuity from DN 4 to DN 100. These additional products cater to the requirements of customers who were looking for a compact diaphragm valve in the corresponding nominal sizes. A basic prerequisite in this context was the suitability of the valve for use in a hygienic environment. The GEMÜ 650 valve has an easy-to-clean stainless steel actuator and is equipped with an optical position Enquiry no: 95 indicator as standard.


June /July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

KZN Industrial & Business News

P

35

Advanced anti-rust protection

rotectapeel Advanced Anti-Rust forms part of The Peelable Coatings (Pty) Ltd range of products. Peelable Coatings is the sole importer and distributor of Protectapeel products, which have been manufactured to strict quality specifications by Spraylat for over 70 years. Protectapeel Advanced AR is a temporary peelable protective coating used mainly to protect various metal surfaces and is a water-based, one part, environmentally friendly specialist coating suitable for application directly from the container by brush, roller or airless spray gun. Following extensive testing, including one where a section of steel sprayed with Protectapeel Advanced

Anti Rust was lowered into a mine and fixed into position alongside unsprayed sections. The results of the test found that the galvanised steel sprayed with Protectapeel Advanced Anti Rust showed no deterioration with regard to corrosion or surface tarnishing and was in fact, in the same condition as when first sprayed with the product. On the other hand, the unsprayed galvanised steel showed signs of surface deterioration such as visible corrosion, pitting and holes. The ‘fall out’ from the shaft was caked on the unprotected steel surfaces and this further promoted the deterioration of these surfaces. The product has also been used with great success at two Durban

companies, namely, the fertilizer company, Profert which is based in Mayden Wharf and Bulk Cargo Logistics. BCL is a warehousing, logistics and shipping company which handles bulk commodities, including mining products, minerals, fertilizer and other abrasive elements. The company also offers a blending and bagging service for the fertilizer industry. As a result, the company carries a large fleet of fork lift and front end loaders all of which are exposed to these very corrosive elements. Based on the results of a three month product trial, the company is now using Protectapeel Advanced Anti Rust to protect hoppers, blend-

ing machines, front end loaders and anything else that may be prone to rust – this includes the cladding in the company warehouses. According to James West, MD of Bulk Cargo Logistics, his company has “found the product to be a very effective and resistant barrier between steel and the elements, specifically oxygen and water”. In addition it is easy to apply, dries quickly and based on the three month trial results, the company is confident that they have made the right choice in Protectapeel. Protectapeel Advanced Anti Rust has passed a 500-hour Salt Spray Test certificate and can be applied over all new, treated or untreated or galvanised surfaces even those that are already showing signs of corro-

sion or deterioration. Thet are the sole importer and distributor of DurafFilm, a protective film used to seal and protect a variety of surfaces from rust, corrosion and tarnishing and is sold in an easy-to-apply spray can.

Bushed pump restored to spec

E

thekwini Water and Sanitation has launched an extensive waste water treatment works (WWTW) and sewage pump station (SPS) refurbishment initiative that involves experimenting with emerging pump sealing technologies that will improve the quality and reliability of the installed pump database. As part of this project, a specialised PFR-throat bushing has been selected and fitted to an Allis Chalmers waste water pump serving Umhlatuzana Inlet SPS, this task being entrusted to RAF Engineering who possess extensive experience in the workings of Ethekwini’s WWTW and SPS operations. Wear in the pump’s stuffing box was such that PFR-throat bushing was considered a suitable alternative to restore the gland seal to specification. It was supplied by the Durban branch of mechanical seals company AESSEAL, and drawn from its carbonfilled PTFE product range. The bushing comprised four rings of Style

380 packing and a split lantern ring of glass filled PTFE. An SKF automatic lubricator system was fitted to deliver untended seal lubrication. PFR‑throat bushing is a relatively new product in South Africa, being introduced to the market by AESSEAL in 2012. The product allows a softer‑wearing packing to be used in the pump stuffing box, reducing gland packing costs and delivering a more effective sealing arrangement. Spiral grooves and special flow geometry are the bushing’s main features, working together to reduce

flush water usage and prevent solids from entering the box. This results in less wear on the shaft and packing surfaces. The bushing harnesses the displacement and orientation of the flow medium around the rotating shaft, using the spiral grooves to collect any solids between the shaft and the bushing, and expelling them by means of the induced flush stream. A narrow gap to the shaft allows the bushing to control flushing water volume, minimising leakage and reducing the water requirement by up to 80 percent. Material of manufacture is a high strength compound with excellent running properties and universal chemical resistance, temperature resistant to 260 deg C and hydrolysis resistant to 180 deg C. Each bushing is heat treated to minimise an already very low coefficient of expansion. Enquiry no: 97

On-pack labelling solutions

B

rands use labels and on-pack solutions to inform and communicate with consumers, which forms part of the overall packaging design of a product. Visual packaging elements such as colour, design, on-pack devices and interactive effects, all play a crucial role in the purchasing process. According to Timothy Beattie, General Manager of Pyrotec PackMedia, “Pyrotec PackMedia offers four types of on-pack solutions, which allows for optimal information and communication on a small amount of space. Each on-pack solution serves a specific purpose depending on the need of the product as some labels serve just to inform while others are used for promotional and valueadded purposes.” ElastiTag is an elastomer loop that fits snuggly around a product and is attached to either a promotional card or coupon. Each hang tag is custom manufactured according to the brands need. It is used purely as a marketing or promotional tool to engage with customers for a specific reason. ElastiTag immediately attracts consumers’ attention and can be used to launch a new product, enhance brand awareness, provide tips to consumers, advertise or promote a special offer, deliver free product samples or provide coupons to consumers. Unlike cardboard tags ElastiTag does not tear and uniquely grips the product and is not easily moved. Do-It Hang Tabs are an effective and easy way to display products. The self-adhesive merchandise display hangers’ turns packaging into a peg-ready product guaranteed to catch consumers’ eyes. They can be used to improve product visibility, reduce packaging costs and for cross-merchandising opportunities. The aim of the Informational Fix-a-Form Leaflet-Labels is to relay a large amount of information to consumers about a product, doing so in the form of a label. Products that require certain information due to legislation or product information presented in different languages can easily take up a huge amount of space on the product. Fix-a-Form allows for an unlimited amount of text or graphics to be neatly displayed in a folded easy to use leaflet format. The Fix-a-Form Leaflet-Labels allows for brands to inform consumers of promotions and all the details attached to it, in a fun and eye catching way.

Promotional Fix-a-Forms create brand awareness by enhancing the visual appeal of a product which places the brand ahead of its competitors. It is a cost effective way to endorse competitions or to offer value-adds onto a product such as coupons, recipes or crossEnquiry no: 98 promotions.

... the first time you laid eyes on it ... the first time you felt it’s comfort and safety ... the first time you drove it ... and the first time you decided you’d never love another...

Enquiry no: 96


June / July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

36

KZN Industrial & Business News

Using flammables with care T he risk of fire and explosion from substances such as chemicals, solvents, fuels and gases is ever present and can lead to major loss of life and serious injury, as well as significant damage to property. As a result, employers working with and handling these substances have a legal obligation to tackle the associated fire and explosion risks. This means preventing the release of dangerous substances; preventing or controlling sources of ignition; ensuring that products are stored correctly; and establishing appropriate procedures for the delivery, handling and use of these HTPE Advert October 2013.pdf

• Gases: Gases are stored at very substances. high pressure and any uncontrolled • Flammables and combustirelease can fill a large volume bles liquids: Store these in a quickly. This is particularly the case separate area of the workplace with liquefied gases such as LPG. in purpose made containers or As a result, gas cylinders should cupboards that comply with local be stored in a designated area in regulations. During dispensing, purpose-built stores. The cylinders there must be good ventilation should also be secured upright and and sources of ignition must be the valves protected from potential removed. Containers should also damage caused by impact. be kept closed when not in use, and whenever possible safety • Dusts: If explosive dusts are present steps must be taken to remove containers with self-closing lids any sources of ignition – for examand flame arresters should be ple, by ensuring that no open flames used. It is also a good idea to or hotwork activities are present. have a suitable spill kit on hand Work areas should also be regularly to capture any leaks which could cleaned to keep them dust-free. pose a safety or pollution risk. 1 2013/10/21 3:12 PM • Solids: Many types of packaging material such as plastic foam, polyester wadding and textiles give off dense black smoke when they burn,so they should not be stored close to heater sources or electrical equipment. • Oxidisers: Materials that ordinar-

ily burn slowly, will burn vigorously in an oxygen rich atmosphere, so oxygen and oxidisers like chlorine in cylinders must also be stored in a secure and controlled manner. In addition, oxygen must never be used as a substitute for compressed air, or to sweeten the air in a working area or confined space. Furthermore, grease or oil must not be used on equipment containing oxygen as they can self-ignite. • Chemicals: Some chemical products incorporating organic peroxides can explode if not stored and han-

dled correctly and certain chemical substances can react with incompatible materials or contaminants, causing fire or explosion. Some substances such as sodium react violently when they come into contact with water. Others may decompose or react violently when wet. Information on storage and handling temperatures can be found in the substance’s material safety data sheet (MSDS)or by contacting the manufacturer. • Using flammable liquids :If flammable liquids are used in a work process, it is likely that a limited quantity will have to be stored and readily available inside the workplace. In assessing the risks from flammable substances, employers will need to justify the requirement to store any particular quantity of flammable liquid within the work room or working area. However, the guiding principle is that only the minimum quantity needed for frequently occurring activities or an amount required for use during halfa-day or one shift should be present Enquiry no: 99 in the work room.

New technology for uniforms needed

N C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

Hi-Tech Pressure Engineering is a medium sized engineering company based in South Africa. Hi-Tech designs and manufactures pressure vvessels and pressure parts in accordance with international engineering standards. We make compliant pressure equipment for all industries that require compliance to pressure vessel regulations.

CMY

K

• Pressure vessels

• Stainless process vessels

• Pressure systems

• Heat exchangers

• Storage tanks

• Air receivers

• Level control vessels

• Boiler equipment • Seal vessels

ot surprisingly, the people who wear security uniforms want many more features and, while companies want to make their security staff more visible and provide uniforms that are even more durable, price constraints are preventing this from happening. According to the 2014 Sparks & Ellis Uniform Survey, price decides the kind of uniform security officers wear. Sparks & Ellis conducted an online survey recently with the Security Association of South Africa to explore attitudes towards uniforms. Sparks & Ellis MD, Sue de Wet (pictured) says that it is challenging to meet industry’s demands. “The technology is available to provide state-of-the-art uniforms but the industry isn’t budgeting for this to be

ogy for such things as odour protection, insect repellent and stain repellent. Three-quarters of the sample say that uniforms should be replaced annually. Given that over 90% agree that more attention should be given to season changes in uniforms – i.e. to keep cool in summer or warm in winter, protect against sun damage, wind, rain and so on – Sparks & Ellis is proposing that companies invest in seasonal uniforms and help extend the life of a uniform in this way. However, as Sue explains: “Again, our difficulty comes in matching the current budget levels because usually there’s no provision for additional elements.”

Enquiry no: 100

A truck body and trailer building trail blazer

S 8 Sage Road, Jacobs. P.O. Box 41349, Rossburgh. Tel: (031) 461 4193 • Fax: (031) 461 4194 info@htpe.co.za • www.pressure.co.za

introduced, let alone mainstream. In fact, we battle to contain costs on standard items because our running costs are increasing but the uniform buying budgets are not.” Some survey respondents were concerned about the cleanliness and smell of uniforms – this is due to some staff not having easy access to a washing machine (57%) and perhaps this is why nearly 90% of the sample would like uniforms to include some kind of fabric treatment to deal with anti-bacterial and odour protection. The technology is available but it comes at a price, of course. Sparks & Ellis is keen to introduce new technol-

erco’s mission is to continue producing superior quality refrigerated and dry freight truck bodies and trailers as well as striving to give customers a competitive edge in areas such as reducing fuel costs and CO2 emissions. As a leader in its field, the company – with branches in Durban, Johannesburg and Cape Town - has built up extensive experience servicing the transport industry for more than 30 years. The challenge of reducing operational costs while still being environmentally conscious remains high on Serco’s agenda. The company’s Eco package offers exciting possibilities in this area through a fuel

saving combo which includes durable sidemounted skirtings and a roof diffuser boasting the potential to reduce fuel consumption for long haul operators. Road tests recently conducted in co-operation with SPAR and Mixtelematics between Durban and Richards Bay proved the Eco package does indeed improve fuel consumption significantly. Serco has invested in cutting edge technology and equipment and is expanding facilities at its Durban premises while it is also moving into new headquarters in Johannesburg. The new panel manufacturing equipment being installed at its Durban factory in Phoenix Industrial Park will incorporate the latest environmentally friendly blowing agents and insulation materials setting a new benchmark in the local refrigerated transport industry. Serco MD, Clinton Holcroft (pictured) said the company had outgrown its existing premises in Johannesburg and the new facility there would increase yard space to more than 50 000m², allowing them to take on more work and improve repair turnaround times. “Construction at the new factory situated in Boksburg near Carnival City is complete and we move in during April.’ He said the extension and upgrade of its Durban manufacturing operation in Phoenix Industrial Park would increase the under roof area by more than 3000m2 and result in improvements to operating efficiencies. “The extensions to our Durban factory will accommodate a new leading edge technology panel press and cater for an increase in manufacturing capacity,” said Holcroft. Enquiry no: 101

Even better results with hot water. HDS 8/18-4 C - Cleaning with hot water high pressure cleaners offers numerous benefits. Advantages include improved cleaning results with less detergent. It makes business sense. 33 Henry Pennington Road (Richmond Road), Westmead Tel: (031) 713 4700 or email: garin@karcher.co.za www.karcher.co.za


June /July 2014

KZN Industrial & Business News

S

37

3D printed injection moulds cut lead times

tratasys,Ltd, recently announced that Whale, a leading manufacturer of water and heating systems for mobile applications, has slashed its lead times for the production of injection mold tools for prototype parts by up to 97% since introducing Stratasys 3D printing into its tooling process. According to Jim Sargent, 3D Technical Services at Whale, the company is 3D printing injection mold tools in less than 24 hours using its Objet350 Connex Multi-material 3D Printer, at a fraction of the cost of producing metal tools: “Traditionally, our lead times for metal tools were somewhere between 4 - 5 weeks and came with significant production costs. As a result, our R&D process was very timeconsuming and fundamentally slowed down the launch of new products. With this printer, we are now able to design our tools during

G

the day, 3D print them overnight and test them the next morning with a range of endproduct materials. The time and cost savings associated with this new tooling method are significant.” The injection mould tools are 3D printed using Stratasys’ Digital ABS material, which features distinct material properties ideal for low volume part production – high tempera-

ture resistance and toughness. Whale also offers its Rapid Prototyping Service to external customers, including automotive and aerospace industries, producing 3D printed multi-material parts and tools using plastics such as polypropylene and polypropylene glass-filled. “Looking into the future, 3D printing is hugely revolutionary in terms of how we are going to operate as a business,” explains Patrick Hurst, MD at Whale. “We have already seen the technology take months off of our product development process and that in turn minimises risk. In fact, I estimate that we’ve

Bearing testimony to ultimate product confidence

lobal leader in bearings and engineering solutions, SKF, combines linear guidance systems and linear driving technology into one system, setting the industry benchmark in turnkey actuation system solutions. SKF actuation system solutions are widely acknowledged for their superior quality and accurate and efficient performance across a broad range of market sectors, reliably meet applications requiring tasks to be performed automatically with a pre-programmed device with set parameters. “Our turnkey actuation system solutions position us extremely competitively in the market,” states SKF Mechatronics Product Manager for Southern Africa, John Storm. “The actuation systems are offered through SKF Mechatronics,” says Storm, “which is one of SKF’s six global core technologies together with bearings and units, seals, power transmission, lubrication systems and services.” Mechatronics is briefly defined as anything mechanical that is electrically driven and SKF’s mechatronic product portfolio comprises two main product offerings - linear guidance systems, linear driving technology, and actuation systems. “Actuation is our primary focus, and more specifically, electrically driven actuator systems with AC, DC and servo options,” continues Storm. “The electric system delivers substantial end-user benefits compared to hydraulic and pneumatic systems. “In addition to being sealed and maintenance free, the system features quality, reli-

Water a hazard for filters

H

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

ighveld Filters, a Donaldson distributor, was approached by a client with a very specific problem. The client was utilizing a Dyna truck to transport personnel, underground, to and from their work stations. Due to the placement of the filter, it was being exposed to high volumes of water on the underground roads. The truck’s air filter is fitted at the back, below the left front wheel, and allows for water to be drawn into the engine, which can cause engine failure. Dirk Uys, sales engineer at Highveld Filters, explains “We replaced the current filter with a Donaldson Air Filter, its housing and a RAM inlet hood. The air filter and the suction point were moved higher on the vehicle to approximately 3 meters above ground, offering the vehicle a new intake system. “ This solution has provided their client with peace of mind, the ability to continue using the truck for their underground transport needs without the possibility of an engine breakdown and excessive downtime. Donaldson Filtration Solutions not only provides the world’s most advanced products but, along with our distribution network, we work with you to determine a holistic Enquiry no: 104 filtration solution.

ability, high efficiency rates, higher productivity, lower power consumption, high repeatable accuracy, system diversity and simple integration.” Storm explains that choosing the most appropriate linear guidance system is dependent on a number of factors such as load capacity, stiffness, required speed, required travel and the attainable degree of precision. SKF offers three types of linear guidance systems to meet customers’ diverse guiding needs: Linear ball bearings (ball-recirculation sleeves on shafts), profile rail guides (carriage with rows of recirculating balls running on a profiled rail) and precision rail or prismatic guides (two guide rails positioned one upon the other with a ball, crossed roller or needle roller cage between them). Linear driving technology involves rolled ball screws, ground ball screws, and roller screw systems. Ball and roller screw technology, which according to Storm, transforms rotary motion (provided by a motor) into linear motion, with very high efficiency. Rolled ball screws offer high precision to cover most requirements and reduce or eliminate backlash. Ground ball screws are the best solution for applications demanding greater rigidity and precision. Ball screws handle push and pull forces and run with linear guides which take up the lateral force. Roller screws can operate far beyond the limits of ball screws and ensure ultimate precision and rigidity, high speed and acceleration a technology created by SKF. Enquiry no: 103

WWW.ITHALA.CO.ZA

shortened our R&D process by up to 35% with Stratasys 3D printing solutions. Add that on top of the 20% we’re already saving in terms of our design work – well for me, it’s fantastic.” Nadav Sella, Solutions Sales Manager at Stratasys concludes: “We are seeing an increasing number of customers exploring the potential that 3D printed injection mould tools offer. In addition to the dramatic cost and time savings potential, our Digital ABS tools enable companies to produce parts in the real end-product material, ready to test even in the prototyping phase.” Enquiry no: 102


38

June / July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

KZN Industrial & Business News

Mill’s specialised Cellulose expansion

T

he successful upgrade to produce Specialised Cellulose (also known as dissolving wood pulp) at Sappi’s Ngodwana Mill in Mpumalanga marks an exciting phase of growth and development for the company, and the province. On 18 June 2014, MEC of Finance, Economic Development and Tourism of Mpumalanga, Mr Sikhumbuzo Eric Kholwane along with Sappi Chief Executive Officer Ralph Boëttger officially opened the new Specialised Cellulose fibreline. The expansion and modernisation of Ngodwana Mill commenced in 2011 as part of Sappi’s strategy to invest in fast growing, high margin businesses that offsets the decline of coated paper consumption in mature markets. Project GoCell, as the project was known, converted a fibre line at the mill to produce 210,000 tons a year of Specialised Cellulose, in addition to its existing newsprint and linerboard (packaging paper) production. Specialised Cellulose is a sought-after natural, renewable fibre with a wide range of uses in the textile, consumer goods, foodstuff and pharmaceutical industries. The expansion has helped to increase Sappi’s total global production of this beneficiated wood fibre to 1.3 million tons per year, entrenching its position as the global leader in this market. Specialised Cellulose is also produced at Sappi Saiccor Mill in

KwaZulu-Natal and Cloquet Mill in Minnesota in the United States. As the world’s population grows, so does demand for Specialised Cellulose. “Extensive research and interactions with our customers have convinced us that this is one of the best markets in which to invest for the future,” said Sappi Limited Chief Executive Officer, Ralph Boëttger. The global demand growth for this raw material is approximately 6% a year. In Asia, the company’s biggest market, it is projected that the burgeoning middle-class will grow from a current 1.9 billion to about 2.7 billion by 2030 – accounting for 43% of global consumption expenditure. In opening the new fibre line, the MEC congratulated Sappi on their investment and thanked Sappi for their confidence in Mpumalanga. He stressed that only by the government and the private sector working in partnership will development and the growth aspirations of the province be achieved. Locally, this venture is a vote of confidence in South Africa as a good place for manufacturers to invest for the future. Sappi is the first multinational with manufacturing interests in the Lowveld region. As such, the expansion does not only reposition the company for sustained growth, but also strengthens economic development in the province. Commented Alex Thiel, Chief Executive Officer Sappi Southern Africa: “As a long term investment, the expanded operation will help generate more export revenue and boost the local economy by securing jobs in an area where unemployment is rife”. A key objective of the project was that, during the civil and construction phase, it should benefit the community through skills training and development. This has been successfully achieved. Project GoCell’s community training initiatives were recognised in the BHP Billiton Achiever Awards competition (2012). Sappi won first place in the categories ‘Re-skilling and Empowerment’ and ‘Best Training Programme for large companies’. Enquiry no: 105

INCOMPARABLE CLEANING SOLUTIONS

Alternative building methods

T

he South African construction industry is rapidly evolving due to the increasing demand for Light Frame Steel Building (LFSB) methods, which is fast becoming a preferred option for large corporates and retailers due to the durability of the structures and the rapid turnaround time necessary for construction. This is according to Charl van Zyl, CEO of Silverline Group, a construction company that specialises in the construction of Light Frame Steel buildings, who says that due to the various benefits of the alternative construction method, the industry has grown by 21% in the 2012/ 2013 period. Van Zyl says that according to a survey conducted by the Southern African Light Steel Frame Building Association (SASFA), an increased volume of the steel produced in South Africa is used for complete buildings, including walls, as opposed to roof trusses only. “This is a key sign that LFSB method is becoming a popular construction practice for commercial projects. It also reaffirms the growing acceptance of LSFB by architects, engineers, and builders.”

M

Enquiry no: 106

Diffuser plates reduce noise

itech’s locally manufactured Diffuser Plates are designed for use with its Globe control valve on high pressure drop applications for gases and vapours and greatly reduce the control valve noise level generated by the gas or vapour flow. A properly selected diffuser valve combination can result in up to a 40 dBA noise reduction. Installed downstream from the valve, the diffuser plates are designed to create a back pressure at the valve. On high pressure drop gas applications the valve size is selected to maintain the velocity at the outlet within the limit of Mach 0.33 (1/3rd of sonic) by creating a back pressure the gas or vapour is more compressed, and therefore a smaller

Goscor Cleaning Equipment offers comprehensive, tailor-made cleaning solutions backed by world-class after sales backup and service.

SPECIALISING IN:

“Architects, engineers and builders are realising the effectiveness of LFSB in comparison to conventional brick and mortar. Light Frame Steel is stronger than traditional materials, and offers advantages with regards to energy consumption, speed of construction and quality of the finished project. The advantages are endless.” He adds that apart from the versatility of Light Frame Steel, it is also one of the most recyclable and sustainable building products, which has also contributed towards the demand and growth in the industry. Van Zyl says it is projected that the industry is expected to grow by 15% during 2014. “These projections and the strength of the Rand, is encouraging more industry professionals to utilise this method to maximise their return on investment, while still producing world-class environmentally friendly projects.” Silverline has played an extensive role in the successful growth of the LFS industry, especially in the franchise sector. “Due to the demand for light weight steel construction, we have successfully opened over 30 outlets around South Africa in just three years.

• Sweepers: Commercial, Industrial and Road • Sweeper Scrubber Combination machines • Scrubbers: Commercial and Industrial • Carpet Cleaning Machines • Single Disc: Scrubber, Polisher & Burnisher • Chemicals: Equipment Specific Environmentally Friendly Green Hygiene Solutions • Escalator Cleaning Machines • High Pressure Machines • Combination Jetting Machines • Vacuum: Commercial, Industrial and Heavy Industrial (Truck & Trailor) • Short Term Rentals • Used Equipment

Offices in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban & Port Elizabeth Tel: 010 594 4356 cleaning@goscor.co.za • www.goscorcleaning.co.za A proud member of the Goscor Group of Companies

WWW.ITHALA.CO.ZA

valve can be selected and still keep the velocity within acceptable limits. Special trims such as Low Noise or ED Disk Stack are still often required inside the valve as the downstream plate is not effective at creating back pressure at low flow rates. In these conditions the valve sees the full pressure drop. However, the velocity in the smaller valve is still acceptable due to the lower flow rate. Usually the valve size can be reduced to less than half the size it would have to be without the plate, resulting in significant savings, particularly when the sizes involved are large. Several diffuser plates can be installed in series in an expanding pipework system.. Enquiry no: 107


June /July 2014

COMPANY & PRODUCT NEWS

KZN Industrial & Business News

I

Extracting better value from manufacturing plants

ndustrial processes throughout Africa can be significantly enhanced and outputs significantly increased simply by adopting a philosophy of quality when procuring products and services. Selecting the right partners to supply assistance is usually a simple process, but in the long run can have a profound outcome on the success of an operation. Qualified technical advice and after sales service are usually equally as important as the quality of the goods being supplied and should be a more important consideration than price alone. Announcing his company’s nomination for the prestigious Socrates Committee “Best Enterprise” award by the Europe Business Assembly (EBA), Vishal Gautam (pictured) of Tega Industries South Africa said that the award is the culmination of the company’s concerted efforts globally to put the quality of its products and

S

services above all other considerations. Tega Industries Limited was nominated for its excellent business reputation and effective management globally. Quality of products, it’s highly trained staff and the adoption of modern and effective technologies were also recognised and commended by the committee. The EBA is an independent corporation for development and management of economic, social and humanitarian collaboration. As a non-governmental organisation, EBA promotes transformation of state-of-the-art experience and economic practices, establishment of economic, educational, cultural, and scientific ties, as well as the creation of national business elites in countries around the world.

Additionally, the creation of a positive image of regions, companies and individuals is also encouraged throughout the global business community. The award is seen as recognition of the good work the company has already done in supplying products and technical expertise globally. In South Africa Tega Industries works with a variety of companies in the mining, transport, manufacturing and a wide number of industries to become more efficient through the use of engineered rubber and combination materials. In conjunction with technical experts, polymer scientists and the customer, solutions are found and formulated to save money and help equipment perform better. Enquiry no: 108

SA’s self-employed individuals struggle to obtain bank financing

elf-employed individuals in South Africa are finding it increasingly difficult to obtain finance to secure transactions from traditional lenders, as they are viewed as high risk candidates with unpredictable earnings. As a result, the growth potential of many of South Africa’s self-employed individuals is being hindered. This is according to Gary Palmer, CEO of Paragon Lending Solutions, who says that as a result of the strict regulatory environment he has witnessed an increase in the number of unsuccessful loan applications by business owners regardless of the full business potential of the client. “South Africa’s banking sector has tightened up its regulations around the lending criteria to selfemployed individuals arguing that their earnings are volatile, despite the fact that some self-employed individuals earn more than employed, and as such self-employed individuals are increasingly making use of alternative lending solutions by non-bank lenders

who are providing much-needed cash flow to take advantage of opportunities.” Palmer says that by cutting out the red tape often experienced with traditional bank loans, self-employed individuals have quicker access to funds in shorter time periods, allowing their businesses to grow. According to Palmer, the perceived risk of being self-employed is much greater in South Africa than in other parts of the world. He points to Australia’s general views on selfemployed individuals. “In Australia, self-employed individuals are looked at in a different light. They are seen as more secure and financially stable. As South Africa’s economy isn’t as stable as first world economies, selfemployed individuals are simply seen as ‘riskier’ candidates.” He says that the requirements are more complex for banks when reviewing employed vs. self-employed individuals’ loan applications. “Lenders are more inclined to grant loans to those who have demonstrated finan-

Enquiry Service For more information on product or service news please circle the number relevant to the article then return it to: KZN Industrial & Business News P O Box 1322 Wandsbeck 3631 or fax this coupon to enquiries at (031) 266 7514 or log on to www.mediaevents.co.za.

Name: _________________________________________ Surname:_______________________________________ Designation:______________________________________ Company: _______________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________ ____________________________ Postal Code:_____ Tel:______________________ Fax:___________________ E-mail_________________________________________ Nature of business: ________________________________ Issue 87 - June / July 2014 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

44

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

61

62

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

81

82

83

84

85

86

87

88

89

90

91

92

93

94

95

96

97

98

99

100

101

102

103

104

105

106

107

108

109

110

111

cial discipline in the past. Banks’ decisions are also based on how they understand an individual’s finances, their business and their ability to pay back the loan. Therefore, the best advice I can give to a self-employed individual looking to obtain finance is to have their financials in order, as it demonstrates the strength of an individual’s business, and confirm whether the business will be able to pay the self-employed individual a justifiable salary, in order for the individual to have enough cash flow to repay the loan.” Palmer advises that self-employed individuals looking to apply for finance have the following documentation in place: • Six months’ bank statements; • A comprehensive income / expenditure statement for the business; • The latest business and/ or personal financial statements; and • Management accounts for the current year, all verified by a qualified professional. Enquiry no: 109

39

TALK TO YOUR TARGET MARKET Upcoming features in August/ September 2014 • Food & Beverage • Harbour Infrastructure & Shipping • Hydraulics & Pneumatics • Industrial Property & Development • Newcastle & Surrounds Industry Focus • Pumps, Valves, Pipes & Fittings For all editorial contributions contact Chantal Haines For advertising Cheryl Murphy Tel: 031 266 7511 Email: editorial@mediaevents.co.za

DESIGN, MANUFACTURE AND INSTALLATION OF ALL STORAGE SYSTEMS

RACKING AND SHELVING North Reef Road, Elandsfontein, Johannesburg Tel 011 437 7700 I Fax 011 437 7799 BRANCHES IN DURBAN AND CAPE TOWN

Email sales@symo.co.za

www.symo.co.za

HIGH DENSITY MOBILE SHELVING

PALLET FLOW RACKING

SHUTTLE RACKING

MOBILE RACKING

SELECTIVE RACKING

LOCKERS

HARDWARE

Drive-In Racking  Racking Protection Pallet Flow Racking  Mezzanine Flooring Rack Support  Slotted Angle Shelving Shuttle Racking  Library Shelving Structural Support  High Density Mobile Shelving Selective Racking  Bolt & Nut Shelving Cantilever Racking  Boltless Shelving Mobile Racking  Lockers Long Span Systems  Hardware SYMO-LITE Light Duty Racking

Committed to Excellence


June / July 2014

INDUSTRY MOVERS

40

KZN Industrial & Business News

Seen at the The Forum event hosted by Nedbank, that took place at the Oyster Box Hotel, Durban are Gert Klynsmith (Gough Cooper Homes), Frank Berkeley and Anand Joseph (Nedbank Corporate), and Don Perks (FGG Architects)

Also at the Forum event hosted by Nedbank, are Anil Narotam (McDonald Steel) and Doug Ross (JT Ross)

Seen at a recent SBS Tanks Appreciation Dinner are, Chris Leah, Heiner Freese, Delayne Gray and Mava Gwagwa, all SBS Tanks

Also at SBS Tanks dinner are Siyabonga Zungu, Proudly South African, Delayne Gray, SBS Tanks and Joseph Mashiane, Proudly South African

Seen at Voltex MV/LV Solutions official opening from left, Billy Batten, Cato Ridge Electrical and Eric Immermann, John Carter and Zoltan Petersen, Voltex MV/LV Solutions

Also at Voltex MB/LV Solutions launch are from left, Bruce Atherton, Wayne Bursey and Yullen Govender, Siemens and Nico Erasmus, Abacus

Also at Voltex MB/LV Solutions launch are from left, Rakesh Heeralal, Bongi Thwala, Gary Paterson, Jessica Hitchcock and Gary Elliott, Voltex

Seen at the Precision Planter prizegiving, from left: Gert Heyns, Monsanto; Gerhard van der Merwe, Vaalwater Farming, Newcastle, KZN; Gert Coetzee, Farmlots, Wesselsbron, Free State and Josey Hendriks, Cerealis Precision, Lichtenburg.

Supporting automated plasma requirements

A

frox has beefed up its automated plasma equipment offering to meet the latest requirements of local industry. This extended offering, supported by OEM partners Victor Thermal Dynamics and Pierce Profile Cutting, is suitable for both small and heavy industrial requirements. “We’ve appointed a dedicated development manager, Andrew Peters, to support these ranges and to provide a single point of contact for the market,” says Afrox’s Dewald Bodenstein, Product Manager - Arc Equipment. “We now have an extremely competitive offer that includes a very solid base of technical support.” The Victor Thermal Dynamics automated plasma cutting range includes the Standard Cutmaster A series, a light duty cycle entry level air plasma system that provides an economical and flexible solution. With benefits that include easy set-up and use, superior cut quality up to 120 Amps, the

Cutmaster A series offers solutions for light, medium and heavy applications. Victor Thermal Dynamics’ Auto-Cut XT series is a high duty cycle standard air plasma system ideally suited to heavy plate cutting applications. The Auto-Cut 200 XT and 300 XT systems deliver a premium cut performance on both mild steel and non-ferrous metals and incorporate proprietary MaximumLife parts that lower operating costs, as well as water mist second-

Very affordable one-ton workhorse

A

very affordable On-Road, single cab workhorse has been added to Foton’s growing range of Tunland premium pick-ups in South Africa. Like all the other Tunland models, the latest addition is powered by a robust 2.8-litre Cummins diesel engine. It is the first vehicle in this category to be powered by an engine from the famous US-based company. The new model, which is well equipped for a workhorse bakkie, is priced at R199 950 which is very competitive. The Tunland, a clean sheet development from one of China’s leading domestic automotive

brands, was launched in SA in 2012, initially as a fully-equipped double cab 4x4. Subsequently the range has grown with the arrival of a double cab 4x2 and then an Off-Road single cab. Now the On-Road Tunland single cab takes this Foton subbrand into the largest segment of LCV sector in the local market. This new workhorse is far from being a stripped down, budget bakkie. Instead it has a car-like interior and features such as air-conditioning, electric windows

Geared Motors \ Drive Electronics \ Drive Automation \ Industrial Gears \ Services

1THREAD_6689_EAS

We drive the water industry

ary (WMS) for low cost, high quality cutting on non-ferrous metals, using N2 as plasma gas and ordinary tap water as the secondary. The benefits of WMS , which is recommended for materials up to 40 mm thick, include dross-free cutting from 1 mm to 20 mm, an oxide-free cut face surface and a wide parameter window. A reducing atmosphere is produced in the cut by the release of hydrogen from the secondary water, effectively decreasing oxidation on the cut face surface. The Ultra-Cut XT series is a high precision plasma system with the flexibility to increase cutting power. Available in 100-400 Amp outputs for cutting plate up to 50 mm thick, UltraCut XT systems offer outstanding parts life, the highest kW output for a maximised duty cycle and cut speed, and a lower current draw. This series achieves the highest cut speed in its class on stainless steel — up to three times faster than similar cutting systems.

Photo: Hans Lombard

Industry Movers

Enquiry no: 110

and anti-skid ABS brakes with electronic brake force distribution (EBD), a driver’s side airbag, height-adjustable front seatbelts, motionsensing door locks, remote central locking, and height-adjustable halogen headlamps. The Tunland was designed from the groundup by an international team of development engineers to be tough and rugged while also offering a spacious cab, comfortable ride and a comprehensive standard specification.

Les Lothian Managing Director Bobcat Equipment South Africa

Rudolf Lubbe Confined Spaces and Fire Technology Expert Skyriders

Dr Lucas-Jan Ebels Head: Transportation Division UWP Consulting

Enquiry no: 111

SEW-EURODRIVE, a BEE company, leaders in the field of geared motors are now able to supply an Industrial Gear Unit that offers more efficiency for mixing and agitating applications with their MC range of Extended Bearing Distance (EBD) Industrial Gear Units. In process plants, large axial and radial forces occur at the agitator shaft during agitating processes. Traditional designs solve this problem with separate, external bearings that take on the function of the agitator shaft bearings, a solution that very often proves cost intensive. Our new EBD concept extends the bearing span across the low speed shaft and offers stronger bearings within the gear unit itself, which means that in many cases separate bearings are no longer required in the agitator or an over sizing of the gear unit can be avoided. These high torque MC Industrial Gear Units can be used for the reliable operation of mixers, mounting flanges, agitators and surface aerators.

SEW-EURODRIVE - Driving the world.

Tel: +27 11 248-7000 Web: www.sew.co.za

Visit us at Electra Mining Nasrec Expo Centre Hall 6 Stand J 20 15-19 September 2014


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.