Monthly Archives: April 2024

Client Focus

SANDVIK LAUNCHES UPGRADED 800i CONE CRUSHER RANGE

Sandvik Rock Processing is introducing its upgraded 800i cone crusher series. A major talking point is the new ACS-c 5 automation and connectivity system, which integrates the capabilities of all of Sandvik’s crusher modules and subsystems into a single automation system. 

The upgraded Sandvik 800i cone crusher series is now available globally, effective March 1, 2024, confirms Nils-Peter Ahlqvist, Sales Support Manager, Africa & Latin America – Crushing Division at Sandvik Rock Processing. 

“The Sandvik 800i cone crusher range’s combination of high crushing forces, reliability and simplicity make it easier to operate, manage, maintain and service, resulting in productivity and uptime gains that are gamechangers for operational performance,” says Ahlqvist. 

The latest Sandvik 800i crushers with new ACS-c 5 combine simple, yet robust mechanical design with powerful user-friendly automation to better support diverse operational roles. The new role-based interaction functionality simplifies the work of operators, maintenance personnel and engineers by offering guidance, access to valuable data and tools for proactive maintenance and optimisation.

The ACS-c 5 automation system guides the operator through alarms and recommended actions, streamlining the decision-making process during alerts and minimising the impact of potential issues. 

“Maintenance personnel have access to an improved historical and operational data log, providing a comprehensive overview of the crusher’s performance. The new automation system offers engineers more opportunities to monitor, analyse and optimise the crusher’s performance,” explains Adam Taylor, Business Line Manager Crushing Solutions –  Africa at Sandvik Rock Processing. 

With sustainability in mind, the upgraded Sandvik 800i crushers are designed to eliminate inefficiency in operating mines, as well as in greenfields operations. For example, in flowsheets including three-stage crushing and conventional grinding, these crushers assist SAG/AG circuits with pebble-crushing and optimise particle size distribution for lump ores and heap leach applications. The Sandvik 800i crushers are also suitable in high pressure grinding roll (HPGR) circuits. They crush more and deliver finer particle sizes to the downstream processes.

“With the latest 800i crushers, we are able to produce much finer product (down to mill feeds of sub 6 mm) from our crushing and screening circuits, ultimately resulting in improved milling and overall process performance. This translates into less energy consumed and reduced wear in downstream processes. In other words, we allow customers to ‘crush more to grind less’,” says Ahlqvist.

The upgraded Sandvik 800i crushers are ready to be connected to the SAM by Sandvik cloud-based digital assistant. SAM collects information from all connected Sandvik equipment to provide a complete overview of the entire operation. Customers can look at the status of their connected equipment, communicate across teams, view alerts and notifications, pro-actively order spare parts, and much more. 

“With the new SAM mobile app for iOS and Android, customers can have an overview of their crushing fleet, monitor equipment data and key parameters, receive alarms from the ACS system directly in their pocket and get recommended actions created to help them solve issues more quickly,” concludes Ahlqvist.

Client Focus

HUMAN FACTOR REMAINS KEY TO INTEGRATING COLLISION PREVENTION ON MINES

While South Africa leads the world in regulating the field of collision prevention in mining, a key challenge in implementing effective solutions is to secure the buy-in and collaboration of all the people involved.

Speaking as a panellist at the recent Investing in Investing in African Mining Indaba in Cape Town, Booyco Electronics CEO Anton Lourens reminded delegates that the available world class technology is just one aspect of the solution. The African Mining Indaba panel session on Collision Prevention attracted so much interest that there was standing room only, indicating the high level of interest and concern about the relevant regulations in the sector.

“As one of the pioneers in Proximity Detection Systems (PDS) and Collision Prevention Systems (CPS) on mines, Booyco Electronics is rightly regarded as a technology company,” says Lourens. “In truth, however, we are also in the ‘people business’ – because it is the people who wear and operate our technology who are vital to its effectiveness.”

Moderated by the Minerals Council South Africa, the panel discussion focused on how mines should be keeping up with the new legislation on PDS. Lourens emphasises that Chapter 8 of the Mine Health and Safety Act was now very clear that compliance was non-negotiable, and mines were increasingly embracing technology in applications where mobile equipment posed ‘significant risk’ to health and safety.

“There have been great successes in the implementation of collision prevention strategies, but at the same time the overall industry picture is uneven,” he explains. “Even on one mine site, we have witnessed variable success rates between one shaft and another.”

This highlights the wide spectrum of adoption which needs to be achieved, he says, not just with the operators but right through the mine’s different departments. There can even be disruptive expectations between the mining production team and the engineering team , for example, if the management-driven strategy has not been clearly communicated and accepted.

He emphasises that everybody on the mine has a part to play, with the production department usually being the owner of the vehicles fitted with PDS. A successful PDS strategy will facilitate a good understanding of the respective roles – including planning, engineering responsibility, technology implementation and maintenance.

“It is important for everyone to be on the same page, as the mine’s production suffers when a machine stands, including due to a PDS issue – and that affects the whole mine and everyone’s future,” he says. “The good news is that the mines and their professional associations are engaging much more about CPS, and they recognise that the way forward should involve closer links between mines, their suppliers and the regulator.”

The key message is that no single player in this equation can achieve better safety levels on their own. Lourens points out that South African mines may be quite unique in the way they engage multiple Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) and technology partners on each site. This creates some complexity when applying PDS technology, as each PDS supplier has to work closely with a number of mobile equipment OEMs to achieve the customers’ requirements.

He highlighted, however, that the building blocks for successful compliance were already in place. These include ISO standards adopted by OEMs, as well as best practice guidelines on PDS developed by the Minerals Council South Africa.

“The technology is available to address significant risk, and the tools are there to apply these solutions,” says Lourens. “What is important, though, is that the application of this technology is recognised as a process of change – not just a flick of a switch or a silver bullet.”

He reminded African Mining Indaba delegates at the panel discussion that people generally do not like change, and that this was natural. It is therefore necessary to carefully assess the conditions and attitudes on each site, and to design a change management plan aligned to operational culture that will satisfy all stakeholders.

“All parties are committed to the same goal – Zero Harm – so they need to reinforce this and find the best way forward in applying PDS solutions,” he concludes. “This is not to ignore the technical complexity of the solutions, but the main result is to drive safe and efficient production.”

He noted that modern PDS also generates extensive data on machine and pedestrian movements on mines. This is contributing to ‘digital twin’ simulations for mining operations, which can be harnessed to inform ongoing safety improvements in traffic management.

Client Focus

IMPORTANCE OF BELONGING TO BARGAINING COUNCIL FOR THE CIVIL ENGINEERING INDUSTRY

The civil engineering sector remains a cornerstone of infrastructure development and economic growth, embodying a wide range of projects from roads and bridges to dams and urban development. Within this field, the Bargaining Council for the Civil Engineering Industry (BCCEI) plays a pivotal role in maintaining industrial harmony, setting standards and ensuring fair practices. 

Lindie Fourie, Operations manager at the BCCEI, says that membership in the BCCEI is not just a legal requirement, but should be seen as a strategic asset for any business operating within this space. 

“There are multifaceted benefits of belonging to the BCCEI, both for employers and employees in the civil engineering industry,” she continues. “Most importantly, the BCCEI is instrumental in establishing and enforcing industry standards that ensure sustainability in civil engineering projects.”

These standards are not arbitrary; they are the result of collaborative discussions and agreements between employers’ organisations and trade unions representing employees. By adhering to these standards, members contribute to the industry’s reputation for excellence and reliability, which is essential in securing both local and international contracts.

“Facilitating fair employment practices is a fundamental responsibility of the BCCEI with one of its primary roles being to negotiate and enforce collective agreements that cover wages, working hours and other employment conditions. This ensures a level playing field for both employers and employees within the industry, preventing undercutting and unfair competition,” Fourie says. 

For employers, these agreements provide clarity and predictability, helping them to plan and budget effectively. For employees, they guarantee fair treatment and equitable pay, encouraging harmonious working conditions.

The BCCEI provides a structured mechanism, through its compliance department with designated agents who are available to attend disputes between employers and employees regarding any matter covered in the collective agreements, avoiding costly and time consuming litigation. This mechanism is designed to be fair, impartial and expedient, ensuring that both parties can return to their normal activities as soon as possible. 

“By facilitating amicable resolutions, the BCCEI helps to maintain industrial harmony and prevent work stoppages that could delay projects and impact profitability, Fourie explains. 

The BCCEI serves as a powerful advocate for the civil engineering industry, representing its interests in discussions with government and other stakeholders. It is more than just a regulatory body; it is a vital partner for anyone involved in the civil engineering sector. 

Membership offers a range of benefits, from ensuring fair employment practices and setting industry standards to providing dispute resolution services. “By fostering a collaborative and supportive environment, the BCCEI helps to ensure the long-term health and success of the civil engineering industry. Whether you’re an employer or an employee, belonging to the BCCEI is an investment in your future and the future of civil engineering,” Fourie concludes. 

Client Focus

PILOT CRUSHTEC ADDS JONSSON CRUSHERS AND SCREENS TO ITS STABLE

Pilot Crushtec International is introducing a new line of premium mobile crushers and screens in southern Africa. The Jonsson range comprises tracked units, largely aimed at the premium high tonnage, heavy-duty segment of the crushing and screening market. 

P.J. Jonsson och Söner is a Swedish mobile crushing and screening plant provider that has traditionally operated in the Nordic Region. Established in 1953, initially trading in fur and eventually construction machinery and used crushing equipment, Jonsson started manufacturing wheeled crushers in 1984, before venturing into the tracked market in 1998. To date, the company has supplied more than 350 tracked machines and in excess of 400 wheeled units. 

Following the 2018 acquisition by Metso, Jonsson is on a drive to expand its business internationally, and southern Africa is one of the strategic markets. The brand will leverage Metso’s existing eight year partnership with Pilot Crushtec to grow its footprint in the region. 

“Our partnership with Pilot Crushtec is aligned with our strategic focus to expand our global footprint,” explains Mikael Delbrant, Sales and Marketing Director at Jonsson. “We are excited to partner with Pilot Crushtec, an established name in the crushing and screening market in southern Africa.”

The same view is shared by Adam Benn, Director, Capital Sales, North EMEA, CEA and Southern Africa at Metso, who commends Pilot Crushtec’s focused business model, which has a strategic dedication to crushing and screening. The concentrated focus and unprecedented commitment to a specific line of products has, over the past three decades, served as the cornerstone of Pilot Crushtec’s success. 

“Pilot Crushtec is unique in its own way,” says Benn. “The primary focus on crushing and screening has over the years allowed the company to develop a profound understanding of the crushing and screening sector, which uniquely positions them to forge long-lasting connections with their customers in southern Africa.”

Jonsson’s range comprises tracked crushers and screens, unique double crushers and screens, feeders and conveyors. “The Jonsson range is primarily focused on the premium, high tonnage, heavy-duty crushing segment and is ideally suited for demanding customers who appreciate high quality, high production and high operating efficiencies,” explains Timo Nakari, VP – Jonsson Business Line at Metso. 

Pilot Crushtec will initially focus on selected products, particularly the tracked double crusher concept as well as heavy-duty jaw crushers, cone crushers and screens, confirms Francois Marais, Sales & Marketing Director at Pilot Crushtec. 

Marais says the focus is initially on products that complement the existing Metso offering. Key among them is the Jonsson L 120-330 double crusher, which combines the two Nordberg C120 and GP330 crushers and a screen on one compact tracked chassis – the only mobile unit of its kind available.

“The Jonsson L 120-330 double crusher is a gamechanger for the local market,” says Marais. “Where customers would traditionally need to mobilise and run three separate machines, we can now bring an entire plant on one compact chassis. This is a unique proposition for the market; instead of three engines to maintain and three machines to transport, now there is only one.”

The Jonsson L 120-330 double crusher, says Marais, will be a big benefit for mining contractors who, by their very nature, place value on ease of plant movement on and between sites. Once on site, they can mobilise and start production in a fraction of the time that it would take them to establish a traditional fixed plant. 

In addition, Pilot Crushtec will offer two heavy duty Jonsson jaw crushers (L 150 and L 160), three large Jonsson mobile cone crushers (L 400, L550D and L 500D) and the Jonsson L 354 mobile screen. These models have been carefully selected to complement the existing Metso models. 

“Of note is that the Jonsson range incorporates Metso crushers, a product that we are familiar with and have the expertise to service and support. With energy efficiency and sustainability in mind, dual-powered and fully electric variants are available,” concludes Marais. 

Client Focus

ELEVATING EFFICIENCY IN MINERAL SANDS WITH GRINDEX BRAVO PUMPS

Grindex Bravo submersible pumps were selected by a mineral sands operation on the West Coast of South Africa and according to JD Nel, Key Account Manager at Integrated Pump Technology, these will be used across various areas on this minerals processing plant. 

Integrated Pump Technology is the official distributor for the world class range of Grindex pumps for Southern Africa. Nel says that the company has previously supplied pump solutions to this particular mineral sands operation and was called upon to propose a solution for a range of pumping applications where the plant had been experiencing premature failure on competitor pumps it had installed. 

Nel says that often the incorrect pump is specified for an application, and that when it comes to pumping in harsh applications such as this it is vital that the operating parameters are assessed to ensure the high levels of performance and reliability. The Integrated Pump Technology team did a complete on-site assessment at the mine before proposing an effective and cost efficient solution that would achieve the required flow and head. 

“Pumping in a mineral sands operation requires robust pumps constructed of the correct materials to deal with the abrasive nature of the material being transported. Further, in all applications at the plant the pumps are required to move fluids with high solids concentrations which is more complex than just pumping water,” Nel says.

In the first application, 20 Grindex Bravo 600 pumps featuring a 25,5% chrome content wet end will be pumping excess water overflow or spillage back into the system. These pumps offer a flow rate of 35 litres per second at a head of 25 metres, and are capable of handling particles sizes from 8mm all the way up to 40mm with an SG from 1.2 to 1.6. An agitator beneath the pump intake ensures effective material suspension and transfer, making these pumps ideal for the challenging conditions. 

Because of the high solids concentration the pumps are all equipped with an agitator beneath the pump intake which will bring the material into suspension facilitating effective transfer. Nel says these pumps are considered the most suitable for this harsh application. 

In addition to this, six Grindex Bravo 200 slurry pumps were provided to the customer for pumping spillage from the thickeners. These pumps, while smaller, has the same features of the larger Bravo 600 units and will handle large particles with ease. 

Several Grindex Bravo Salvador sludge pumps have also been put to work at this mineral sands plant. Designed for continuous unattended operation, these robust pumps will handle drainage in various areas of the plant. 

“Significantly, as a result of the performance of the Grindex pump this customer has chosen to purchase additional units and keep these in stock at the plant.” Nel concludes. 

Client Focus

IPR ENHANCES OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCY WITH PUMP REBUILD SOLUTIONS

In the current economic climate, where reducing operating costs is paramount, IPR’s advanced pump servicing, repair, rebuild and refurbishment capabilities emerge as a critical solution for businesses seeking to enhance efficiency and reliability without the need for substantial new investments. 

This is according to Henru Strydom, Operations Manager at IPR, who says that the company’s pump rebuild facility plays a pivotal role in the lifecycle management of pumping equipment, offering a cost effective alternative to the outright purchase of new equipment. 

“The significant investment in our facility underscores our commitment to supporting industries like mining, quarrying, water and wastewater management, oil and gas, and manufacturing through the repair and refurbishment of various types of pumps,” Strydom says. 

Refurbishing pumps, Strydom says, offers an opportunity to extend equipment lifespan significantly, and at a far lower cost. “Through expert repair and refurbishment, pumps that might otherwise be decommissioned can continue to operate effectively, delivering value well beyond their expected service life. This not only maximises the return on the original investment but also contributes to operational continuity and reliability.”

The process of rebuilding a pump involves disassembling it, cleaning all components and then inspecting each part for wear and damage. Worn or defective parts are repaired or replaced, where deemed necessary, and significant upgrades can be made to improve the pump’s performance. This meticulous process ensures that the rebuilt pump is not just restored to its original condition but is often enhanced to offer better efficiency and reliability.

“During the rebuild process, pumps can be tailored to meet specific operational requirements or upgraded with the latest technologies to improve performance and efficiency. This level of customisation allows businesses to adapt their pumping equipment to changing needs or advancements in technology without the need for entirely new purchases,” he explains. 

Before a rebuilt pump is deemed ready for return to service, it undergoes rigorous performance testing ensuring adherence to original specifications. The company’s facility boasts a test tank designed to simulate operational conditions, and this allows the evaluation of key performance parameters such as flow rate, pressure, power consumption, efficiency and overall reliability of the pump.

Client Focus

OPTMISING COMMUNITION PROCESSES WITH FLSMIDTH’S ECCENTRIC ROLL CRUSHER

The energy-intensive nature of comminution processes has led to FLSmidth’s efforts to develop more energy efficient equipment. One such technology is the patented Eccentric Roll Crusher (ERC®) which, through its innovative design, not only reduces energy consumption in the primary crushing of hard rock, but also offers increased throughput and reduced wear.  

Comminution by its nature is an energy intensive process, and its efficiency not only impacts the overall energy consumption of processing plants but also improves the sustainability of mining and quarrying activities. Ideally suited for use in both underground and surface operations, the ERC® offers significantly higher efficiency and flexibility than any conventional crushers in the processing of hard rock, says Demitri Kokoroyanis, Regional Product Line Manager – Crushing & Screening, Sub-Saharan Africa, Middle East & South Asia Region (SSAMESA) at FLSmidth. 

“A particularly effective kinematic of the oscillating roll with constant stroke in the entire crusher cavity allows for a higher reduction ratio and more effective use of crushing energy,” he says. “The reduction ratio of 1:10 potentially allows for elimination of secondary crushing stages, depending on the material characteristics.”

In addition, the high moment of inertia of the roll and flywheels contributes to accumulated crushing energy, reducing the power requirements and effectively compensating load peaks in the comminution process. 

Key design features of the ERC® are compactness and robustness. Due to its low profile, the crusher offers a construction height up to 50% lower than other hard rock primary crushers. This compact design and the reduced number of components simplifies transportation, installation and maintenance, and also lessens CAPEX costs by up to 10%. 

The integrated pre-screen allows for efficient bypassing of fines, boosting crusher capacity as well as reducing energy consumption by up to 40% and increasing liner life in the process. Bypassing fines also reduces the risk of compacting and overloading of the crushing chamber.

“Mine operators and quarry owners can also benefit from the higher service life of wear elements on the roll,” says Kokoroyanis. “The back-turning of the roll occurring during the crushing process distributes the loads over the entire circumference. This prevents local wear zones and results in uniform wear.”

With impact resistance and wear in mind, the large chunks of feed material in the crushing chamber do not fall directly onto the mounted working element, but hit the hood, which is significantly more resistant to such loads than other components. That is a key advantage over many conventional primary crushers. 

“As more and more mine operators become aware of the benefits of this innovative technology, we are seeing a great deal of interest in the ERC® range. We have already sold several units over the past four years, with some being installed in Laos, Asia, and, we hope, soon in Angola,” concludes Kokoroyanis. 

Client Focus

CONCOR KICKS OFF OXFORD PARKS BLOCK 2A PHASE I PROJECT

Concor has commenced construction on Oxford Parks Block 2A Phase I, located at the heart of Rosebank. The company is leveraging its expertise in project management and fast-paced programming for the construction of two office buildings integrated with basement parking and a retail development on the ground floor. 

Set to redefine the landscape of modern construction, Concor is implementing the Green Star V2 rating system for these buildings, aiming to surpass the already high benchmarks set within the Oxford Parks Precinct for green building practices. 

Martin Muller, Concor Contract Manager, says this initiative reflects the company’s dedication to integrating sustainable and eco-friendly practices into its projects, using green technologies and materials to minimise environmental impact.

The project, started in February 2024, is on a tight 17 month schedule with an anticipated completion in September 2025. The initial phases, including bulk earthworks, were swiftly completed in early March, with the construction team moving forward with raft foundation work. 

Each building, one spanning six storeys at 10 Parks Boulevard and the other four storeys at 55 Eastwood Road, is designed with distinctive architectural features including some round elements. These notable features enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the structures. The common basement will accommodate four levels.

Concor is navigating several challenges inherent to the project’s scope and location. The proximity to the Gautrain servitude limits the use of piling, necessitating raft foundations that, while more time consuming, will ensure the project’s stability and durability. Additionally, the initiation of construction during the rainy season posed a challenge due to the area’s adverse soil conditions. 

Muller says that not unlike previous projects within this upmarket precinct, the Oxford Parks Block 2A Phase I project will showcase Concor’s ability to manage complex, fast track projects while maintaining an unwavering focus on quality, safety, and sustainability. 

“Our collaborative approach with subcontractors, coupled with our team’s comprehensive skillset, sets Concor apart in the construction industry. Communication remains key on all our projects ensuring that all team members are aligned with the project’s objectives, especially in terms of quality and safety,” Muller says. 

Through the projects previously completed and this new one, the company not only contributes to the urban development and aesthetic enhancement of Rosebank but also sets new standards for sustainable construction practices. The successful execution of Oxford Parks Block 2A Phase I will serve as a blueprint for future projects, promoting environmental responsibility, innovation, and excellence in construction.

Client Focus

WEBA CHUTE SYSTEMS: REVOLUTIONISING PERFORMANCE WITH SCIENTIFIC PRECISION

In the competitive and demanding world of mining, efficiency and sustainability are paramount. Mines are constantly seeking solutions that not only enhance operational effectiveness but also ensure environmental compliance and safety. Weba Chute Systems has emerged as a leader in this space, offering a scientifically-backed approach to measuring the performance improvements of their custom-engineered chute systems, ensuring customers can witness firsthand the reduction in total cost of ownership.

Weba Chute Systems stands out in the industry for its commitment to scientific accuracy and the tangible results it delivers. According to Izak Potgieter, Systems Manager at Weba Chute Systems, the company undertakes comprehensive product measurements to ascertain and validate the performance of its solutions. “Our team’s dedication to precision is unwavering,” Potgieter says. “We meticulously evaluate everything from dust levels to the wear and tear on essential components, ensuring we deliver comprehensive value.”

One of the key areas of focus is dust management—a critical concern in mining operations. Weba Chute Systems employs a detailed dust analysis programme that benchmarks its custom-engineered products against conventional chutes, offering end-users a clear picture of the improvements in terms of occupational health and safety standards. The meticulous measurement of dust particles, particularly those below 0.3 microns, underscores Weba’s ability to enhance workplace safety and environmental care.

The benefits of Weba Chute Systems extend beyond installation. The company has invested in extensive research and development to devise reliable calculation methods for maintenance planning. “Our model enables us to predict the lifespan of components with remarkable accuracy,” Potgieter notes. “This not only provides our customers with factual proof of our products’ durability but also empowers them with the knowledge they need to plan proactive maintenance, ensuring uninterrupted productivity.”

This scientific approach to both the performance measurement and maintenance planning of their chute systems sets Weba Chute Systems apart. It assures customers not only of a product that will enhance operational efficiency but also of a partnership aimed at maximising uptime and extending the life of their investment.

Potgieter says that the company’s dedication to scientific methods offers a clear message: investments by our customers in Weba chute solutions are validated by rigorous, unbiased analysis and backed by a commitment to excellence. 

“For mines looking to improve performance while adhering to the highest standards of health, safety, and environmental stewardship, we believe that Weba Chute Systems presents a compelling proposition. By reducing the total cost of ownership and guaranteeing the longevity and efficiency of transfer points, we are not just a supplier but a strategic partner in the mining industry’s quest for sustainable productivity,” Potgieter concludes. 

Client Focus

WEG AFRICA’S NEW CAPE TOWN PREMISES REFLECT 30 YEARS OF GROWTH

Starting out 1994 to serve the metropolitan area with a range of low voltage electric motors, WEG Africa’s Cape Town branch has grown in its size and its offerings, according to Branch Manager Marthinus Greeff.

Testament to this is the fact that it has again outgrown its premises, and last year relocated to larger, well-equipped facilities in Richmond Business Park – enhancing its service capability while making life easier for its customers.

“The branch had humble beginnings 30 years ago, with three staff members – the manager, an administrative assistant and a storeman,” says Greeff. “Our dedication and commitment to customers soon put us on a growth path which has continued to this day; the experienced staff complement at Richmond Park now stands at 35 people.”

Another sign of success is the geographical area that the branch now covers – from Cape Town upwards to the north as far as Upington and east to the town of George. Similarly, a wider range of industrial sectors reach out for solutions from WEG Africa’s Cape Town branch. These include mining, cement, petrochemical, water and wastewater as well as building, food processing, materials handling and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC). He notes that a particularly exciting recent development has been in agriculture, where the branch serves farmers who want to use more renewable energy.

“Perhaps the most exciting aspect of our growth over the years is that we have become a real solutions provider to our customers – not just a supplier of products,” he explains. “We also make an important contribution to reducing our customers’ carbon footprint and energy costs.”

In terms of the company’s comprehensive product range, it covers low voltage electric motors from 0,18 kW to 500 kW. These are available in energy efficiency categories from IE1 to IE4. The branch provides high voltage electric motors up to 11 kV and up to 6,000 kW – for demanding applications such a mill motors on mining operations. 

“We expanded into variable speed drives (VSD) quite early on, and offer low voltage VSDs from 0,18 kW to 500 kW,” he says. “Our medium voltage VSDs range from 1 MW upwards, in 3,3/6,6 kV and 11 kV.”

Another advance made by the branch was to open an Electrical Panel Division a decade ago. This facility manufactures solutions by combining the wide range of quality WEG components. These are supplied to customers across the Western Cape in enclosures which are electrical type tested and non-type tested.

“We are also able to supply starters, VSD boxes and motor control centres (MCCs) – all custom-made to the required specifications,” explains Greeff. “Our motor workshop facilities allow us to conduct many motor modifications including fitment of space heaters and temperature monitoring devices such as thermostats, thermistors and Pt-100 (RTD) temperature detectors as well as the fitment of special bearings as required by the customers’ application, ensuring we can deliver a high standard of quality in our value-added offerings.”

This in-house capability also reduces lead-times and optimises cost effectiveness for the customer, he points out. The branch has its own in-house repair facility for all WEG drives and softstarters, staffed by three dedicated technicians. 

“This enables us to do all the repairs locally, without the need for these products to be sent to our head office in Johannesburg,” he says. “Similarly, this gives customers the advantage of fast and efficient turnaround times.”

In the new premises, the sales counter area has been enlarged to facilitate quicker collections; Greeff notes that even the location of the new offices will please customers – as the road design and planning means much better traffic conditions. 

“Training remains a key value-add for our customers, so we designed our Richmond Business Park building with an even bigger training room,” says Greeff. “With our technology advancing constantly, and our range of solutions growing, there is always considerable demand for us to train our customers’ employees.”

He highlights that the training provided by WEG Africa in Cape Town is fully certified, and is presented by the company’s dedicated training officer. Trainees and customers receive this training at no cost, as a service from the company.

“Our new training facility includes training benches for VSD and softstarter training, where we can accommodate 12 to 18 trainees at a time,” he says. “Training on motors will, of course, continue and we can have 22 trainees per session.”

In keeping with the WEG’s global commitment to sustainability and a low carbon future, the WEG Africa Cape Town office has been recognised by the Green Buildings Council South Africa as achieving Level 1 building emissions. Roof-top photovoltaic panels reduce the carbon footprint and energy costs, while keeping operations powered during loadshedding.